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The article offers information on the surging popularity of genre fiction, including romance, horror, mystery, science fiction and fantasy titles, leading publishers to increase their output to meet the demand. Topics include the rising interest in diverse and inclusive genre fiction; the influence of literary trends and movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp; and how readers turn to genre fiction for escape and emotional processing during challenging times.

In "The Ex-Human: Science Fiction and the Fate of Our Species," Michael Bérubé, an English professor at Penn State, explores sci-fi novels and films that prompt readers to consider humanity's future from a non-human perspective. Bérubé analyzes Arthur C. Clarke's "2001: A Space Odyssey" and argues that the unemotional and unbiased robot HAL would have been a better choice for first contact with extraterrestrials than the human characters. He also examines Octavia Butler's "Lilith's Brood" series, suggesting that merging with aliens may be a preferable fate to the violence and destruction that characterize human colonies on Earth. Bérubé further contends that in the "Matrix" and "Terminator" franchises, it would make more sense for humans to cede their devastated worlds to the machines. While the extensive plot summaries may overshadow the analysis, fans of science fiction will appreciate Bérubé's unique perspectives. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a collection of fiction book reviews from Publishers Weekly. The first review is for a contemporary romance novel called "Enemies to Lovers" by Laura Jane Williams. The story follows Flo Greenberg, who has had a crush on her brother's best friend, Jamie Kramer, for a long time. After some flirting, Flo finds a note from Jamie saying they shouldn't pursue a relationship, which leads to tension between them. The review praises the appealing characters and colorful supporting cast, as well as the charming setting in Greece.The second review is for a historical romance novel called "The Winged Tiara" by J’Nell Ciesielski. The story is set in 1918 Paris and follows Esme Fox and Jasper Truitt, who impulsively marry but separate the next morning. Four years later, they meet again and are shocked to discover each other's true identities. The review describes the novel as sparkling and praises the author's ability to mix romance with historical elements.The third review is for a science fiction anthology called "New Adventures in Space Opera" edited by Jonathan Strahan. The anthology features 15 award-winning science fiction stories from the past decade that exemplify the best of space opera. The review highlights the sophisticated and evocative nature of the stories, as well as the impressive worldbuilding and action.The fourth review is for a fantasy novel called "The Enchanted Lies of Celeste Artois" by Ryan Graudin. [Extracted from the article]

"Heaven Sent" is a new adult debut novel by YA author Sara Wolf, which is ranked #4 on the hardcover fiction list and #10 overall in the country. The book is described as a breathtaking epic that combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, horror, romance, and mystery into a coming-of-age story. It comes in a deluxe limited edition packaging with illustrated endpapers and concludes with "Hellrunner." The novel has received positive reviews and is recommended for fans of diverse genres. [Extracted from the article]

"Generations" is an epic science fiction novel set on a generation ship called the Thetis. The story takes place eight generations after the ship's launch and follows Sandrine Liet, a Gen7 traveler who works as a Senior Archivist. When Sandrine is asked to investigate a report of extortion by the ship's leader, Primo Sebastian Anderson, she uncovers a cover-up and a potential threat to all life on the ship. The novel combines elements of political thrillers, science fiction, and procedural investigations, offering a compelling hero and a detailed exploration of ship life. While the identity of the villain may be predictable for seasoned mystery readers, the book's worldbuilding and storytelling are satisfying. It is recommended for fans of Patrick S. Tomlinson's "Children of a Dead Earth" series and Nick Harkaway's "Titanium Noir." [Extracted from the article]

"Still the Sun" by Charlie N. Holmberg is a gripping science fantasy novel set on the planet Tampere. The protagonist, Pell, is approached by a stranger named Moseus to help repair machines in a mysterious tower. As Pell tinkers with the devices, she experiences intense flashbacks of the planet's past. Alongside Moseus's enigmatic companion, Heartwood, Pell uncovers the dark truth behind the tower and the broken machines. While the worldbuilding and technology specifics may be confusing at times, the suspenseful plot and slow-burn romance make for a fascinating read. [Extracted from the article]

"Time Is Heartless: The Heartless Series: Book Three" by Sarah Lahey is a near-future science fiction novel set in a heat-choked Earth. The story follows Quinn Buyers, a climate scientist living in a floating equatorial city, as she balances her work, marriage, and the care of her young daughter. The novel combines elements of romance, family drama, and adventure, with themes of love, connection, and advanced technology. The book explores future politics and features action-packed scenes, but its strength lies in its rich relationships and world-building. Readers new to the series are advised to start with the first book. [Extracted from the article]

In "The Long Run: A Creative Inquiry," Stacey D'Erasmo explores the reasons and methods behind artists' ability to continue creating. Through interviews with late-career painters, writers, composers, and others, D'Erasmo uncovers the ways in which these individuals sustain their creativity. The book offers an admiring portrait of the perseverance, talent, and drive that fuels creatives, providing inspiration for artists seeking motivation. While D'Erasmo's self-reflections occasionally divert attention from the focus on her subjects, the overall result is an inspiring exploration of the creative process. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers information on the work of Brandon Winn Sanderson, is an American author of high fantasy and science fiction who is best known for the Cosmere fictional universe, in which most of his fantasy novels, most notably the "Mistborn" series and "The Stormlight Archive," are set. It discusses about a "soft magic" system in which the reader is not totally aware of the "rules" of employing magic; and a "hard magic" system is one in which the reader almost fully comprehends the rules.

"The Belt" by Dale E. Lehman is a science fiction thriller set on Mars. Exobiologist Miguel Hernandez discovers microfossils in Sinus Meridiani, providing evidence of independent life on Mars. However, he is labeled an outlaw by the mayor of Lowell Colony, who opposes Miguel's efforts to preserve Meridiani as a research site. Miguel and his students become entangled in a political conspiracy that extends to the asteroid belt. While the resolution of the conspiracy is somewhat underwhelming, the story offers an enjoyable read with complex characters and a gritty Martian survival setting. Fans of the Expanse series will appreciate the familiar worldbuilding and multilayered political landscape. [Extracted from the article]

"A History of the Multiverse: Orion Spatial" is a quirky and humorous space adventure novel by A.S. Jerickson. The story follows Pharos Barton Plyaedes, who is hired by a clone committee to retrieve an errant droid that is pursuing a destructive entity called the Entirely Unwelcome and Unjust Tite. Barton is equipped with a time-traveling K-Drive and is accompanied by a grumbling Monk of Karlof and a persnickety Bookkeeper. Throughout the book, comical extracts from the multi-volume History of the Multiverse provide background information on the uncanny world. This action-packed and humorous novel will appeal to fans of classical science fiction and readers who enjoy humor in their stories. [Extracted from the article]

Sofia Samatar's novella, "The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain," explores themes of capitalism and labor exploitation through the lens of science fiction. The story follows a nameless boy who is born and raised in the oppressive environment of a mining ship. He is rescued by a woman who implements a scholarship program, and together they navigate a world filled with deep horrors. Samatar's masterful worldbuilding and subtle reveals highlight the power of collective action in the face of oppression. This thought-provoking novella delivers a powerful message. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores artificial intelligence's impact on agriculture, addressing excitement and fear surrounding its use, with a focus on concerns about data privacy and ownership, but ultimately highlighting the importance of farmer intelligence alongside technological advancements.

The article offers information associated with thriller novel writer Walter Mosley. Mosley believes that ThrillerFest is a professional event that pays attention to all writers from the seasoned master to the perspective writer who have yet to pen their first novel. It is noted that Mosley is best known for his gritty crime fiction, but his versatility also includes ventures into science fiction.

An interview with Fonda Lee, author of the book "Green Bone Saga," about the connections and divergences in science fiction and fantasy, martial arts, and the authors that inspire her, is presented. Lee talks about how her background in material arts inspired certain aspects of her writing, connections, divergences, or interesting overlaps she sees between science fiction and fantasy, and one thing that she wanted librarians to know about the "Green Bone Saga."

An interview with Ben Cox and Scott Barbour, science fiction and fantasy (sff) experts at Cuyahoga County Public Library in Ohio, is presented about working with readers, building collections, and promoting genres. They talk about what they can share with libraries who do not read sf to help them understand it, appreciate it, and work with readers; authors whom they would suggest libraries new to sf read; and factors they consider when building a standout sf collection.

The article focuses on a collection of speculative science fiction and essays, with a particular emphasis on African perspectives. Topics include technology's role in storytelling, the blending of gothic horror and coming-of-age narratives and the exploration of empathy through a unique fungus. It also highlighted the portrayal of African diaspora in fiction.

The article presents list of bestselling SFFH (science fiction, fantasy and horror), including "Fourth Wing," by Rebecca Yarros, "Hell Bent" by Leigh Bardugo and "Light Bringer" by Pierce Brown.

The article present an interview with Israeli born writer Lavie Tidhar. It discusses about his metafictional sci-fi novel "The Circumference of the World"; he drew inspiration from his visit to Vanua Lava in Vanuatu and the story of WWII coastwatchers; he incorporated elements from his own novelette titled "Lode Stars" and the theme of memories and their impact on one's identity; and his approach to creating complex characters like Hartley, based on a real author from golden-age sci-fi era.

The article provides information on the best-selling books in the genres of Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, and Fantasy. In the Mystery genre, John Sandford's "Dark Angel" tops the list in Hardcover format, followed by Nita Prose's "The Maid" in Trade Paperback. For Romance, Emily Henry's "Happy Place" is the top-selling book in Hardcover, while El-Mohtar/Gladstone's "This Is How You Lose the Time War" takes the lead in Science Fiction in Trade Paperback.

The article focuses on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and the potential unintended consequences it brings. Topics discussed include the evolution of robots and AI, the significance of Isaac Asimov's three laws of robotics, and the concern over AI's ability to interpret and control human behavior.

The article presents an interview with Ray Nayler, author of sci-fi debut "The Mountain in the Sea." Topics discussed by him includes the story in Vietnam's Con Dao archipelago, conceiving the octopuses' language, fascinating relationship depicted in his novel where all struggle for internal identity.

An interview with Khan Wong, a publisher and author of science fiction-fantasy "The Circus Infinite," a space opera inspired by his time as part of a California circus act, is presented. Khan discusses how the publishing opportunity he missed out in the 1990s inspired "The Circus Infinite," how he sees depictions of queerness and queer experience changing in science fiction, fantasy, and horror, and what motivated him to focus on the theme of found family in "The Circus Infinite."

The article argues how book industry is underestimating the demand for children's science fiction.

"Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, writing as Corey, give Expanse fans a last gift after wrapping up the epic space opera series with 2021's Leviathan Falls", per our starred review. Memory's Legion by James S.A. Corey lands at #8. New books on our hardcover fiction list include two science fiction titles, one capping off a well-loved series and the other a standalone from another popular author. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the relaunch of the illustrated science fiction magazine "Heavy Metal" in time for the global Covid-19 pandemic. It describes the popularity of the magazine after its launch in 1977 and its impact on American popular culture, as well as the eventual decline of its popularity. It explains the role of the new creative and publishing teams appointed by the owners in 2019 in the relaunch and changes made to the plans of the magazine.

The article presents an interview of author Joan He on her science fiction novel "The Ones We're Meant to Find".

An interview is presented with an author Richard Butner. Topics discussed include an information on his book "The Adventurists" featuring horror tales; information on the use of decay of idealized science-fiction futures in the book; and things that readers should know before going into this collection.

The article lists the top selling books in the U.S. including "Apples Never Fall" by Liane Moriarty, "The Night She Disappeared" by Lisa Jewell and "A Court of Silver Flames" by Sarah J. Maas.

The article discusses the trend of publishing fiction books such as science fiction, fantasy (SFF) and supernatural books. It mentions interest of Canadian publishers to provide books according to the readers choice. It also mentions information on the Augur Magazine which contains stories of disabled, and LGBTQIA2S+ writers.

An interview with author S. G. Blaise is presented. Topics include her life experiences from childhood has inspired her writing such as her father defied strict government control by smuggling in Hollywood movies, her writing process includes fantasy genre with science fiction, and her book "The Last Lumenian" is based on magic which melds with technology to form a distinctive universe.