Welcome to Genre Picks! Release schedule permitting I’ll be picking several titles debuting each week that might interest fans of genre fiction. Everything from mysteries to thrillers to science fiction to fantasy and maybe even the occasional non-fiction title for good measure should grace these articles. I’ll be trying to go with authors who are a bit less well known so if you’re looking for something or someone new to read this is the place.
The Hollow City by Dan WellsDan Wells made a bit of a name for himself with his John Cleaver books (I Am Not a Serial Killer, Mr. Monster, I Don’t Want to Kill You) about a young man who has the potential to be a serial killer. His unique take on serial killers has seen many critics compare his work to Jeff Lindsay’s Dexter series. Wells’ latest novel The Hollow City is about a paranoid schizophrenic whose disturbing visions of monsters and madness might not be a trick of his own mind.
Thieftaker by D.B. JacksonWe all know the old adage “Don’t judge a book by its cover” right? Well, sometimes I do. Such is the case when it comes to Chris McGrath’s gorgeous work for D. B. Jackson’s (a pseudonym of fantasy author David B. Coe) new novel Thieftaker. Part historical fantasy and part detective novel Thieftaker takes place in 1767 on the mean streets of Boston and follows the thieftaker and spell conjurer Ethan Kaille as he is embroiled in a web of intrigue and deceit.
Advent by James TreadwellJames Treadwell’s debut novel Advent marks the beginning of a new fantasy trilogy that tells the story of a 15 year-old boy named Gavin who sees things that aren’t there. Except they are and it only at a place called Pendura that Gavin begins to uncover the truth about the forgotten magic of the world. Advent deftly weaves the story of Faust with the tropes and traditions of fantasy to weave something entirely new. Though aimed at young adult audiences early reviews have been quick to point out that the novel’s complex themes and poetic language make an engaging read for readers of all ages. Advent has already drawn comparisons the work of Susan Cooper, Alan Garner, and C. S. Lewis; storied company for a debut author.
