Hi, Alechia! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

Hi, my name is Alechia Dow and I’m the author of The Sound of Stars, The Kindred, A Song of Salvation, Just a Pinch of Magic, and more titles to come. I’m a former professional pastry chef and a children’s librarian. Thanks so much for having me on here!

When did you first discover your love for writing?

Weirdly, I would say I knew I wanted to write since I was about 6/7 years-old. My education involved a lot of writing and reading for fun, and I loved that! However, I didn’t know I could write a book until I was in my 20s. I never imagined someone like me, writing science-fiction-fantasy featuring characters that looked like me would be mainstream enough to get published. Thankfully and almost miraculously, I met people along the way who helped me and took chances on me.

Quick lightning round! Tell us the first book you ever remember reading, the one that made you want to become an author, and one that you can’t stop thinking about!

I read so many books over the years that made me want to become an author. The first was Snow Child, a picture book by Freya Littledale and Barbara Lavallee about a girl made of snow who finds parents in an older couple who could never have children. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking. For science fiction, it was definitely X-Men comics, Octavia Butler, and Philip K Dick’s Minority Report—they gave me such big ideas and an understanding about how we could envision the future.

Your new novel, A SONG OF SALVATION, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?

Space adventure about found family!

What can readers expect?

A heartfelt and hopeful story about a found family in space who learn to accept themselves and see the good in the universe. It is massively angry and yet so full of love––I hope readers will enjoy it!

Where did the inspiration for A SONG OF SALVATION come from?

A Song of Salvation is special because it closes out the universe I created with The Sound of Stars and expanded with The Kindred––so I needed to get it right! Lucky for me, I had several inspirations: The Fifth Element (a supreme being who is unsure of saving the world, also Ruby Rhod!), Rebecca Coffindaffer’s Crownchasers (fast-paced space hijinks) and Star Wars IV: A New Hope (emotional rollercoaster that establishes a found family). I think when you read this, you’ll feel pieces of these iconic stories within the pages.

Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?

To be honest, because I was so nervous about getting this story right, I was stressed most of the time! But everytime I got to write a cameo from a previous book, it was absolutely joyful. There’s also a podcast transcript toward the end of the story that made me laugh and when I wrote a very happy, calm conclusion for a character from The Sound of Stars, it made my heart full.

Do you have any advice for those who may have set some writing resolutions for the new year?

Keep writing when you can and read as much possible. Take care of yourself first, the art is never as important as your health.

What’s next for you?

Thanks for asking! My foodie magic middle grade debut, Just a Pinch of Magic, comes out October 10, 2023, so ahhh, that’s exciting! The Cookie Crumbles, an attempted-murder at a cookie competition middle grade which I co-authored with my author friend and critique partner of eight-ish years, Tracy Badua, comes out in the summer of 2024. The second in that series, Their Just Desserts, comes out in 2025 alongside my young adult fantasy, All’s Fair(y)! I’m very grateful to be busy into 2025 J

Lastly, are there any 2023 releases our readers should look out for?

Yes! A Prayer for Vengeance by Leanne Schwartz, House of Marionne by J. Elle, Kingdom of Without by Andrea Tang, On the Plus Side by Jenny Howe, Sing Me to Sleep by Gabi Burton, The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade, The Takeout by Tracy Badua, Ellie Engle Saves Herself by Leah Johnson, Blood Debts and Alex Wise vs The End of the World by Terry J. Benton-Walker, Fault Lines by Nora Shalaway Carpenter, Ander and Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa, and I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark by Riss Nielson!!! That was a lot, if you see me online, ask me for more!

Thank you all for having me again! It’s always such a pleasure to chat with The Nerd Daily!!

You can find Alechia on Instagram at @alechiadow, and her website at alechiadow.com

Will you be picking up A Song of Salvation? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: Alechia Dow, Author of ‘A Song of Salvation’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Hi, Alechia! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

Hello!! My name is Alechia Dow, and I’m a pastry chef, librarian, and author of The Sound of Stars, The Kindred, and Just a Pinch of Magic, along with a few short stories! Nice to meet you all J

Welcome to 2022! What are you looking forward to over the next 12 months and have you set any goals or resolutions for yourself?

YAY, 2022!! I’m committing myself this year to only doing things that make me feel happy and healthy. I don’t want to burn out like I did in 2021, I want to embrace joy.

Quick lightning round! Tell us the first book you ever remember reading, the one that made you want to become an author, and one that you can’t stop thinking about!

The Snow Child was my favorite book as a kid. It’s the book that was beaten up and warped with time and constant readings. I remember the illustrations, the beauty, and the story so well. It inspired me early and I hope one day I can write something that captures that sadness and love.

Your new novel, The Kindred, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?

Mind-linked friends to lovers.

What can readers expect?

Readers can expect a scifi-fantasy love story about two teens, one a commoner, one a duke, who are mind-linked at birth. After the royals are assassinated, they are framed for the murders, and flee home only to crash-land on Earth. Once there, they have to find out who killed their royals, who is after them, and what they mean to each other! It’s a fun book with fun characters and I hope readers love it!

Where did the inspiration for The Kindred come from?

There were a lot of little inspirations from Sense8 to Star Wars, but the one that really stuck with me is loneliness. I watched a documentary about how loneliness has increased, especially among older generations, and how people are trying to find new connections in an ever-evolving technological world. I thought, wow, imagine what it would be like if you shared a mind, memories, experiences with someone else? Imagine how technology could be used to remedy that? Imagine how that would shape a person? I love the idea of using technology to connect people, even from afar, but also the scope and issues that might present.

Can you tell us a bit about the challenges you faced while writing and how you were able to overcome them?

The challenges I’ve faced are pretty typical of everyone doing anything right now. I’m working from home in a pandemic, taking care of my child, and trying to get everything done in a short amount of time. I don’t think I’ve overcome it at all, but I’m adjusting to new versions of normal all the time.

Did you always set out to have The Kindred set in the same universe as your debut, The Sound of Stars?

I did! I love The Sound of Stars, and was hoping to write another story in that universe, and thankfully Inkyard was onboard. It’s been an absolute pleasure, and privilege to do that.

Were there any favourite moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?

Oh so many!! My absolute favorites were the scenes where Joy and Felix finally meet, hop into a spaceship and crash. Those were such visual moments with moving parts, and going deep into their emotions was a blast!

What’s next for you?

My first short story, Beauty Sleep, will be in Out There: Into the Queer New Yonder! It’ll be out in June this year with Inkyard Press. Then, I have a middle grade foodie fantasy coming in Fall 2023 with Feiwel & Friends, and another short story, We Are Stardust in 2023 as well! There’s more, but I can’t share them just yet.

Lastly, do you have any 2022 book recommendations for our readers?

Yes!! Right away, Freddie Vs. The Family Curse by Tracy Badua! I love this book so much! One True Loves by Elise Bryant, Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves by Meg Long, Ashes of Gold by J. Elle, The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas, A Million to One by Adiba Jaigirdar, Not Good for Maidens by Tori Bovalino, The Kingdom of Without by Andrea Tang, The Undead Truth of Us by Britney S. Lewis, and Cherish Farrah by Bethany C. Morrow! There are soooo many more, but that’s where I would start!

Will you be picking up The Kindred? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: Alechia Dow, Author of ‘The Kindred’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

The YA genre is not holding back when it comes to 2022’s upcoming book releases! Between the months of January and June, readers are going to be delighted as to what they can get their hands on with books from favourite authors, to those making their debut!

From stories of love, magic, and mystery, to retellings, anthologies, and sequels, you will surely find several new reads to add to your TBR and we apologies in advance for adding to it!

Looking for more releases? Check out our Most Anticipated 2022 Releases and our Must-Have 2022 Queer Releases.

Read on to discover our picks and tell us in the comments below which ones you’re looking forward to!

JANUARY

When You Get the Chance by Emma Lord
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A bighearted novel about falling in love, making a mess, and learning to let go, When You Get the Chance is the next effervescent novel from Emma Lord, New York Times bestselling author of the Reese Witherspoon YA Book Club pick You Have a Match.

Hopepunk by Preston Norton
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A heartfelt and funny new novel about forgiveness and redemption, and about how hope is the ultimate act of rebellion, perfect for fans of John Green and Becky Albertalli.

The Red Palace by June Hur
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

June Hur, critically acclaimed author of The Silence of Bones and The Forest of Stolen Girls, returns with The Red Palace—a third evocative, atmospheric historical mystery perfect for fans of Courtney Summers and Kerri Maniscalco.

Into The Midnight Void by Mara Fitzgerald
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Fans of Holly Black and Kendare Blake will obsess over the conclusion to this deliciously dark YA fantasy duology!

Serendipity, edited by Marissa Meyer
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From stories of first love, unrequited love, love that surprises, love that’s been there all along, 10 of the brightest and award-winning authors writing YA have taken on some of your favourite romantic tropes, embracing them and turning them on their heads. Readers will fall for this collection of stories that celebrate love at its most humorous, inclusive, heart-expanding, and serendipitous. Contributors include Elise Bryant, Elizabeth Eulberg, Leah Johnson, Anna-Marie McLemore, Marissa Meyer, Sandhya Menon, Julie Murphy, Caleb Roehrig, Sarah Winifred Searle, and Abigail Hing Wen.

Waking Romeo by Kathryn Barker
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Kathryn Barker’s Waking Romeo is a spectacularly genre-bending retelling of Romeo & Juliet asking the big questions about true love, fate, and time travel

Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves by Meg Long
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Meg Long’s Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves is a captivating debut about survival, found family, and the bond between a girl and a wolf that delivers a fresh twist on classic survival stories and frontier myths.

Salaam, with Love by Sara Sharaf Beg
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This heartfelt and humorous YA contemporary follows Dua, who spends the month of Ramadan making unexpected discoveries about family, faith, and first love.

Ain’t Burned All the Bright by Jason Reynolds
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Prepare yourself for something unlike anything: A smash-up of art and text for teens that viscerally captures what it is to be Black. In America. Right Now. Written by #1 New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Jason Reynolds.

The Kindred by Alechia Dow
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

To save a galactic kingdom from revolution, Kindred mind-pairings were created to ensure each and every person would be seen and heard, no matter how rich or poor…

Medusa by Jessie Burton
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A dazzling, feminist retelling of Greek myth from the internationally bestselling author of The Miniaturist, stunningly illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill.

Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A gothic tale full of mystery and romance about a willful female surgeon, a resurrection man who sells bodies for a living, and the buried secrets they must uncover together.

FEBRUARY

And We Rise by Erica Martin
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A powerful, impactful, eye-opening journey that explores through the Civil Rights Movement in 1950s-1960s America in spare and evocative verse, with historical photos interspersed throughout.

Lulu and Milagro’s Search for Clarity by Angela Velez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Booksmart meets Never Have I Ever in this Latinx road trip adventure—a big-hearted, voice-driven YA about two sisters who couldn’t be more different, but become begrudging partners on their school’s cross-country college trip—from debut author Angela Velez.

Bright Ruined Things by Samantha Cohoe
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Extasia by Claire Legrand
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Claire LeGrand comes a new, bone-chilling YA horror novel about a girl who joins a coven to root out a vicious evil that’s stalking her village. Perfect for fans of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Grace Year.

All the Right Reasons by Bethany Mangle
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Bachelor meets Gilmore Girls in this laugh-out-loud young adult romance about a girl who joins her mother on a reality dating show for single parents—only to fall for a contestant’s son.

League of Liars by Astrid Scholte
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this fantasy thriller, four teens charged with murder and the illegal use of magic band together to devise the ultimate jailbreak. Perfect for fans of Six of Crows and How to Get Away with Murder.

You Truly Assumed by Laila Sabreen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this compelling and thought-provoking debut novel, after a terrorist attack rocks the country and anti-Islamic sentiment stirs, three Black Muslim girls create a space where they can shatter assumptions and share truths.

Castles in Their Bones by Laura Sebastian
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A spellbinding story of three princesses and the destiny they were born for: seduction, conquest, and the crown. Immerse yourself in the first book in a new fantasy trilogy from the author of the New York Times bestselling Ash Princess series.

Full Flight by Ashley Schumacher
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A heartbreaking novel about finding your first love and what happens when it’s over too soon. Ashley Schumacher’s Full Flight is about how first love shapes us—even after it’s gone. 

Sunny G’s Series of Rash Decisions by Navdeep Singh Dhillon
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For fans of Sandhya Menon and Adam Silvera, a prom-night romantic-comedy romp about a Sikh teen’s search for love and identity

Only a Monster by Vanessa Len
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The sweeping romance of Passenger meets the dark fantasy edge of This Savage Song in this stunning contemporary fantasy debut from Vanessa Len, where the line between monster and hero is razor thin.

These Deadly Games by Diana Urban
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Author of All Your Twisted Secrets, Diana Urban’s explosive sophomore novel, These Deadly Games, will keep you riveted until the final twist is revealed.

MARCH

The One True Me and You by Remi K. England
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A big-hearted, joyful romance and a love letter to all things geek, Remi K. England’s The One True Me and You is a *witness me* celebration of standing up for, and being, yourself.

Debating Darcy by Sayantani DasGupta
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This Pride & Prejudice retelling brings New York Times bestselling Sayantani DasGupta’s trademark wit and insight to her bright and funny YA debut!

A Thousand Steps into Night by Traci Chee
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author and National Book Award finalist, Traci Chee, comes a Japanese-influenced fantasy brimming with demons, adventure, and plans gone awry.

This Golden State by Marit Weisenberg
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Marit Weisenberg’s This Golden State follows a family on the run, a restless teenage daughter hungry for the truth, and the simple DNA test that threatens their carefully crafted world

Kiss & Tell by Adib Khorram
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A smart, sexy YA novel about a boy band star, his first breakup, his first rebound, and what it means to be queer in the public eye, from award-winning author Adib Khorram.

Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix by Aminah Mae Safi
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A ragtag band of misfits gets swept up in Holy Land politics in Travelers Along the Way by Aminah Mae Safi, a thrilling YA remix of the classic legend of Robin Hood.

Message Not Found by Dante Medema
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An emotionally complex portrayal of secrets, loss, and grief from Dante Medema, Indies Introduce author of the Indie Next Pick title The Truth Project. 

A Forgery of Roses by Jessica S. Olson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the author of Sing Me Forgotten comes a lush new fantasy novel with an art-based magic system, romance, and murder…

Love, Decoded by Jennifer Yen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For fans of Jenny Han and Jane Austen, a rom-com that’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt about the unexpected consequences of one teen’s quest to help her friends find love, from the author of A Taste for Love.

Cinder & Glass by Melissa de la Cruz
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Blockbuster author Melissa de la Cruz’s YA retelling of Cinderella, set in 17th Century Versailles.

The Book of Living Secrets by Madeleine Roux
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Perfect for fans of The Hazel Wood, this genre-bending page-turner from New York Times bestselling author Madeleine Roux follows two girls who transport themselves into the world of their favorite book only to encounter the sinister alternate reality that awaits them. 

A Far Wilder Magic by Allison Saft
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A romantic YA fantasy perfect for fans of Erin A. Craig and Margaret Rogerson, about two people who find themselves competing for glory – and each other’s hearts – in a magical fox hunt.

APRIL

Year on Fire by Julie Buxbaum
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

What secrets will people keep—or reveal—to protect those they love? This novel, set against the frightening backdrop of an encroaching fire season, sparks reflection about friendship, the allure of romantic love, and loyalty to family.

This Rebel Heart by Katherine Locke
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Fountains of Silence meets Spinning Silver in this rollicking tale set amid the 1956 Hungarian revolution in post-WWII Communist Budapest from Sydney Taylor Honor winner Katherine Locke.

Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

They Wish They Were Us meets The Queen’s Gambit in the world of competitive Scrabble when a teen girl is forced to investigate the mysterious death of her best friend a year after the fact when her Instagram comes back to life with cryptic posts and messages.

K-Pop Revolution by Stephan Lee
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

She thought that debuting in a K-Pop band was the finish line, but it was only the beginning. Because now it’s not only her company judging her—it’s the entire world. If K-Pop Confidential was about finding your voice, K-pop Revolution is about finding the courage to stand by your beliefs, even when powerful forces are trying to shame and silence you.

My Dearest Darkest by Kayla Cottingham
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Wilder Girls meets The Craft in this Sapphic horror debut that asks: what price would you be willing to pay to achieve your deepest desires?

Some Mistakes Were Made by Kristin Dwyer
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Sarah Dessen meets Adam Silvera in the debut YA romance everyone is talking about!

Very Bad People by Kit Frick
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this dark academia young adult thriller for fans of The Female of the Species and People Like Us, a teen girl’s search for answers about her mother’s mysterious death leads to a powerful secret society at her new boarding school—and a dangerous game of revenge that will leave her forever changed.

My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian wedding.

Flirting With Fate by J.C. Cervantes
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Jane the Virgin meets The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants in New York Times bestselling author J.C. Cervantes’s charming, romantic YA debut.

This May End Badly by Samantha Markum
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When a high stakes boarding school prank war leads to a fake dating scheme, two teens must decide if they are ready to take the ultimate risk — falling in love.

The Genesis Wars by Akemi Dawn Bowman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Black Mirror meets Marie Lu’s Warcross in Nami’s continuing adventures as she fights to free her friends in this high-stakes sequel to The Infinity Courts by award-winning author Akemi Dawn Bowman.

All the Best Liars by Amelia Kahaney
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Amelia Kahaney’s All the Best Liars is a dark, modern psychological thriller and coming-of-age story about obsession, manipulation, and the intensity of those first friendships that take hold of you and never let go

MAY

See You Yesterday by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the author of Today Tonight Tomorrow comes a magical romance in the vein of Groundhog Day about a girl forced to relive her disastrous first day of college—only to discover that her nemesis is stuck in the time loop with her.

Together We Burn by Isabel Ibañez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An ancient city plagued by dragons. A flamenco dancer determined to save her ancestral home. A dragon hunter refusing to teach her his ways. They don’t want each other, but they need each other, and without him her world will burn.

Not Good for Maidens by Tori Bovalino
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Salem’s Lot meets The Darkest Part of the Forest in this horror-fantasy retelling of Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market.”

A Show for Two by Tashie Bhuiyan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New from the author of Counting Down with You comes a sparkling YA romance about an aspiring screenwriter who falls for the indie film star who goes undercover at her school.

The Agathas by Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Who killed Brooke Donovan? It’s the biggest mystery of the summer, and everyone in Castle Cove thinks it’s the wrong guy. Fans of One of Us Is Lying and Riverdale can’t miss this page-turning who-done-it that’s sure to be the next must read Young Adult thriller!

The Summer of Bitter and Sweet by Jen Ferguson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this complex and emotionally resonant novel about a Métis girl living on the Canadian prairies, debut author Jen Ferguson serves up a powerful story about rage, secrets, and all the spectrums that make up a person—and the sweetness that can still live alongside the bitterest truth.

Destination Unknown by Bill Konigsberg
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From Stonewall Award winner Bill Konigsberg, a remarkable, funny, sexy, heartbreaking story of two teen boys finding each other in New York City at the height of the AIDS epidemic.

Murder for the Modern Girl by Kendall Kulper
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Gatsby-era glamour, a swoon-worthy love story, and an indomitable heroine dazzle in this romp that captures the extravagance of the Roaring Twenties and the dangers of vigilante justice.

Love Radio by Ebony LaDelle
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Hitch meets The Sun Is Also a Star in this witty and romantic teen novel about a self-professed teen love doctor with a popular radio segment who believes he can get a girl who hates all things romance to fall in love with him in only three dates.

Once Upon a K-Prom by Kat Cho
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

What would you do if the world’s biggest K-pop star asked you to prom? Perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Sandhya Menon, this hilarious and heartfelt novel brings the glamour and drama of the K-pop world straight to high school.

All Signs Point to Yes, edited by G. Haron Davis, Cam Montgomery, and Adrianne White
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A YA anthology of love stories for each of the star signs that will showcase multicultural characters and celebrate the myriad facets of love, from meet-cutes to the lesser-explored love expressed by aromantic people, featuring 13 bestselling and award-winning multicultural authors.

A Cruel and Fated Light by Ashley Shuttleworth
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Half-fae Arlo becomes entangled in the courtly intrigue at the Seelie Summer palace as danger for ironborns mounts in this gripping sequel to A Dark and Hollow Star that’s The Cruel Prince meets City of Bones.

JUNE

Our Crooked Hearts by Melissa Albert
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Secrets. Lies. Super-bad choices. Witchcraft. This is Our Crooked Hearts, a darkly gripping contemporary fantasy from Melissa Albert, the New York Times bestselling author of The Hazel Wood

The Song That Moves the Sun by Anna Bright
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This sweeping YA fantasy romance full of star-crossed love, complex female friendship, and astrological magic is perfect for fans of Laini Taylor, Alexandra Bracken, and V.E. Schwab. From the acclaimed author of The Beholder.

This Vicious Grace by Emily Thiede
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Emily Thiede’s exciting fantasy debut, This Vicious Grace, will keep readers turning the pages until the devastating conclusion and leave them primed for more!

Blade Breaker by Victoria Aveyard
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In the sequel to Victoria Aveyard’s instant #1 New York Times bestselling Realm Breaker, a divided world must rally, an unstoppable enemy must be defeated, and the fate of the world rests on a blade’s edge.

This Place Is Still Beautiful by XiXi Tian
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A sweeping debut novel about first love, complicated family dynamics, and the pernicious legacy of racism. Perfect for fans of Tahereh Mafi, Jandy Nelson, and Emily X.R. Pan, with crossover appeal for readers of Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half and Celeste Ng’s Everything I Never Told You.

Valiant Ladies by Melissa Grey
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Two teen vigilantes set off on an action-packed investigation to expose corruption and deliver justice in Valiant Ladies, Melissa Grey’s YA historical fiction novel inspired by real seventeenth century Latinx teenagers known as the Valiant Ladies of Potosí.

Rise of the Vicious Princess by C.J. Redwine
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The first in a YA political fantasy duology about a fierce princess determined to bring lasting peace to her kingdom regardless of the cost to her heart —from C.J. Redwine, the author of the Defiance series and the New York Times bestselling Ravenspire series. Perfect for fans of These Violent Delights, And I Darken, and Ash Princess.

Stealing Infinity by Alyson Noel
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Dream Runners by Shveta Thakrar
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Go Hunt Me by Kelly deVos
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For Dracula lovers and fans of Diana Urban’s All Your Twisted Secrets, this spine-tingling thriller follows seven horror buffs as their dream trip to a remote Romanian castle turns into a nightmare when they begin to be killed one by one.

Game of Strength and Storm by Rachel Menard
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Game of Strength and Storm is a YA gender-bent Hercules retelling. Teenagers of Olympia Gen and Castor race to be the first to complete six nearly impossible challenges to obtain their greatest desire. Only one will win. The other walks away with nothing—if she walks away at all.

Bad Things Happen Here by Rebecca Barrow
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

I Killed Zoe Spanos meets The Cheerleaders in this haunting mystery about an island town with a history of unsolved deaths—and a girl desperate to uncover the mystery behind it all.

What 2022 YA book releases are you looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 72 Upcoming YA Book Releases To Add To Your TBR appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Infinity Son by Adam Silvera
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Balancing epic and intensely personal stakes, bestselling author Adam Silvera’s Infinity Son is a gritty, fast-paced adventure about two brothers caught up in a magical war generations in the making.

Growing up in New York, brothers Emil and Brighton always idolized the Spell Walkers—a vigilante group sworn to rid the world of specters. While the Spell Walkers and other celestials are born with powers, specters take them, violently stealing the essence of endangered magical creatures.

Brighton wishes he had a power so he could join the fray. Emil just wants the fighting to stop. The cycle of violence has taken a toll, making it harder for anyone with a power to live peacefully and openly. In this climate of fear, a gang of specters has been growing bolder by the day.

Then, in a brawl after a protest, Emil manifests a power of his own—one that puts him right at the heart of the conflict and sets him up to be the heroic Spell Walker Brighton always wanted to be.

Brotherhood, love, and loyalty will be put to the test, and no one will escape the fight unscathed.

The Stars We Steal by Alexa Donne
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Engagement season is in the air. Eighteen-year-old Princess Leonie “Leo” Kolburg, heir to a faded European spaceship, only has one thing on her mind: which lucky bachelor can save her family from financial ruin?

But when Leo’s childhood friend and first love Elliot returns as the captain of a successful whiskey ship, everything changes. Elliot was the one that got away, the boy Leo’s family deemed to be unsuitable for marriage. Now, he’s the biggest catch of the season and he seems determined to make Leo’s life miserable. But old habits die hard, and as Leo navigates the glittering balls of the Valg Season, she finds herself falling for her first love in a game of love, lies, and past regrets.

Honor Lost by Rachel Caine and Ann Aguirre
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Book 3 in The Honors Series. Start with the first book, Honor Among Thieves.

Space renegade Zara Cole may have finally met her match. Lifekiller—a creature that can devour entire planets is spreading terror throughout the universe, and it seems nothing can stand in the monstrous godking’s way.

Reeling from a series of battles, Zara and her wounded band of allies are going to need a strategy before they face Lifekiller again. Zara’s street smarts may not be enough when their enemy could be anywhere, destroying civilizations and picking his teeth with the bones.

And just when it feels like she’s reached a special place in her bond with Bea and Nadim, an ex from Earth with an ax to grind comes after her with nefarious intentions. With human enemies, alien creatures, and mechanical stalkers on her tail, it’s down to the wire for Zara to save the galaxy—and the people she calls home—before the godking consumes them all.

The Sound of Stars by Alechia Dow
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Can a girl who risks her life for books and an alien who loves forbidden pop music work together to save humanity?

Two years ago, a misunderstanding between the leaders of Earth and the invading Ilori resulted in the deaths of one-third of the world’s population.

Seventeen-year-old Janelle “Ellie” Baker survives in an Ilori-controlled center in New York City. Deemed dangerously volatile because of their initial reaction to the invasion, humanity’s emotional transgressions are now grounds for execution. All art, books and creative expression are illegal, but Ellie breaks the rules by keeping a secret library. When a book goes missing, Ellie is terrified that the Ilori will track it back to her and kill her.

Born in a lab, M0Rr1S (Morris) was raised to be emotionless. When he finds Ellie’s illegal library, he’s duty-bound to deliver her for execution. The trouble is, he finds himself drawn to human music and in desperate need of more. They’re both breaking the rules for love of art—and Ellie inspires the same feelings in him that music does.

Ellie’s—and humanity’s—fate rests in the hands of an alien she should fear. M0Rr1S has a lot of secrets, but also a potential solution—thousands of miles away. The two embark on a wild and dangerous road trip with a bag of books and their favorite albums, all the while making a story and a song of their own that just might save them both.

The Life Below by Alexandra Monir
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The sequel to The Final Six.

As Naomi lifts off into space and away from a rapidly deteriorating Earth, she watches the world fade away, and along with it Leo, a Final Six contestant she grew close to during training. Leaving Earth behind is hard, but what’s ahead, on Europa, could be worse. The International Space Training Camp continues to hide the truth about what happened to the last group of astronauts who attempted a similar colonization but failed mysteriously. With one shot—at this mission and to Europa—Naomi is determined to find out if there is alien life on Europa before she and her crew get there.

Leo, back on Earth, has been working with renegade scientist Dr. Greta Wagner, who promises to fly him to space where he can essentially latch on to Naomi’s ship. And if Wagner’s hypothesis is right, it isn’t a possibility of coming in contact with extraterrestrial life on Europa—it’s a definite. With Naomi unaware of what awaits, it’s up to Leo to find and warn her and the others.

With all the pieces of their journey finally clicking into place, everything else starts to fall apart. A storm threatens to interfere with Leo’s takeoff, a deadly entity makes itself known to the Final Six, and the questions the ISTC has been avoiding about the previous failed mission get answered in the worst way possible. If the dream was to establish a habitable domain on Europa… the Final Six are about to enter a nightmare.

Twisted Fates by Danielle Rollins
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Book 2 in the Dark Stars Series. Read the first book, Stolen Time.

One past. Two girls. Infinite futures.

As far as anyone in New Seattle knows, Dorothy has disappeared. The stowaway from 1913, the girl that Ash maybe—possibly—could’ve loved: she’s gone. And in her place is bloodthirsty Quinn Fox, silver-haired and vicious. But even though he saw her fall through the anilon their last ill-fated mission through time, Ash can’t stop himself from looking for Dorothy around every dark corner. What he doesn’t know, though, is that the girl he fell in love with is the very same one who is fated to kill him.

As Ash and his friends grow increasingly desperate searching for a way to head off the devastating earthquake threatening to tear down New Seattle for good, Quinn and Roman are working to take down mob boss Mac Murphy, who is attempting to use them to control time travel for his own selfish purposes. When they collide, can they change the course of the future entirely?

Sword in the Stars by Amy Rose Capetta and Cori McCarthy
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this epic sequel to Once & Future, to save the future, Ari and her Rainbow knights pull off a heist… thousands of years in the past.

Ari Helix may have won her battle against the tyrannical Mercer corporation, but the larger war has just begun. Ari and her cursed wizard Merlin must travel back in time to the unenlightened Middle Ages and steal the King Arthur’s Grail—the very definition of impossible.

It’s imperative that the time travelers not skew the timeline and alter the course of history. Coming face-to-face with the original Arthurian legend could produce a ripple effect that changes everything. Somehow Merlin forgot that the past can be even more dangerous than the future…

Between Burning Worlds by Jessica Brody and Joanne Rendell
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Les Misérables meets The Lunar Chronicles in the out-of-this-world sequel to Sky Without Stars that’s an “explosion of emotion, intrigue, romance, and revolution” (Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Caraval series).

A thief. An officer. A guardian. All from different backgrounds, but sharing one same destiny…

The planet Laterre is in turmoil. A new militant revolutionary group has emerged calling themselves “The Red Scar” and claiming responsibility for a spate of recent bombings. The infamous rebels known as the Vangarde believe that in order to bring about a peaceful revolution, their charismatic leader, Citizen Rousseau must be freed from prison right away. Otherwise the bloodshed will only escalate.

Soon Marcellus, Chatine, and Alouette all find themselves pulled into battle with extreme consequences.

Marcellus is determined to uncover his corrupt grandfather’s plan to seize Laterre—even if that means joining the Vangarde. Aloutte, trying to unearth the truth about her past, becomes a captive of Marcellus’s grandfather, the general. Chatine, who is serving time on Bastille, hopes to escape the brutal and horrifying reality of the prison moon.

But the failed attempt to break Citizen Rousseau out of prison launches Aloutte, Chatine, and Marecellus into the middle of a dangerous war for control of Laterre. And in the midst of it all is the legend of a secret and dangerous weapon that could mean complete and absolute power to any that wields it.

Chosen Ones by Veronica Roth
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The first novel written for an adult audience by the mega-selling author of the Divergent franchise: five twenty-something heroes famous for saving the world when they were teenagers must face even greater demons–and reconsider what it means to be a hero … by destiny or by choice.

A decade ago near Chicago, five teenagers defeated the otherworldly enemy known as the Dark One, whose reign of terror brought widespread destruction and death. The seemingly un-extraordinary teens—Sloane, Matt, Ines, Albie, and Esther—had been brought together by a clandestine government agency because one of them was fated to be the “Chosen One,” prophesized to save the world. With the goal achieved, humankind celebrated the victors and began to mourn their lost loved ones.

Ten years later, though the champions remain celebrities, the world has moved forward and a whole, younger generation doesn’t seem to recall the days of endless fear. But Sloane remembers. It’s impossible for her to forget when the paparazzi haunt her every step just as the Dark One still haunts her dreams. Unlike everyone else, she hasn’t moved on; she’s adrift—no direction, no goals, no purpose. On the eve of the Ten Year Celebration of Peace, a new trauma hits the Chosen: the death of one of their own. And when they gather for the funeral at the enshrined site of their triumph, they discover to their horror that the Dark One’s reign never really ended.

Will you be picking up any of these releases? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 9 Sci-Fi Books To Get Your Yearly Reading Goal Off the Ground appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Today we chat with Alechia Dow and talk all about her recently published debut, The Sound of Stars. From the inspiration behind her novel, to her story and struggles as a debut author, and to pop-culture references and her expertise as a pastry chef, everything unravels in today’s post. So, brace yourself and read further to find out her answers!

Your freshly released debut, The Sound of Stars, published on February 25th 2020! Can you tell us about it and why everyone should include this book in their reading list?

THE SOUND OF STARS follows a teenage rebel librarian, a music-loving alien, and their unlikely friendship on a perilous road trip to save humanity. It’s a love story and love letter to books and music, and to science fiction and its power to explore themes that are part of our reality today. While it may be dark at times, it’s about HOPE, and it begs you to fight for the future. I think you should include it on your reading list because it’s inclusive, it features a dream-pop band complete with song lyrics, and it has so much heart! Please read it!

As a debut author, it can be an extremely long and tiring process to finally getting published. Can you share your very own writing and publishing experience for other hopeful authors out there?

I’ve been writing since I was a kid, but never thought I was talented enough to become a published author. Through working odd jobs, going to school, and reading a million books, I wrote stories for fun. But not seriously until 2016, when I wrote my first heavy duty sci-fi book that was selected to be mentored by Tamara Mataya… and that I eventually shelved. Tamara taught me how to write smarter and better, and I applied that to my next book, which was THE SOUND OF STARS in June 2017. I pitched the story to Pitch Wars in August and didn’t get in. Then I pitched it in #PitMad in September, and agents liked it! Three days later, I had an offer. After months of revising with that agent, we realized we had different visions and parted ways. Then I was back to querying this nearly finished book! A month later, I signed with a new agent. And six months later, we had an offer. It was wild. I didn’t believe it was possible. But I was lucky to have found the perfect editor for my story and Inkyard Press has been incredibly kind to me, by not only giving me a *gorgeous* cover, but supporting me throughout this process. It’s been an absolute dream.

Now, let’s talk about the characters in your debut, starting with Ellie! Being a silent rebel who shared hopes through the magical power of stories, we can’t admire her enough! What was it like when you started writing her character and how was the process of developing her?

I always consider my characters beforehand, they are the key to my stories and I need to know them before I can write them. From there, I decide what themes I want to address and where I want the story to go… but the process of getting there is not settled until I’m drafting. With Ellie, I knew I wanted someone who is strong, quiet, loves and will do anything for her family, is rebellious but also very careful. Each situation I put her through showed a new side to her. At the beginning she’s closed off and bitter, but over the course of the story, she opens up not just to Morris, but to the possibility of hope.

And of course, there’s Morris! For you, is there a challenge for developing a non-human character which has strong human emotions and traits?

I relate a lot to Morris; I’ve felt like an outsider in sometimes, what feels like, a very different world. He is raised to be emotionless but with free choice, he elects to feel everything. While both Ellie and Morris are rebellious in nature, Ellie is guarded and Morris is very open about his feelings.  He is emotional and wears his heart on his sleeve, even when embarrassing or impractical. I think there’s a sort of bravery to that. I absolutely loved writing an alien character who tries to understand humanity through music and his interactions with Ellie. It wasn’t a challenge, it was a delight!

As a former pastry chef, can you visualise what’d Ellie and Morris most likely to snack when they’re hanging out together?

Ellie and Morris have a difficult time finding delicious food on their dystopian road-trip… but if Ellie could have anything, it would be ramen, doughnuts, and pizza, ha! As for Morris, he loves fresh fruit and very flavorful dishes. I think he would enjoy Ellie’s ramen very much, but also he’d LOVE tacos.

You threw a lot of Easter Eggs into The Sound of Stars and of course, we squealed every time we found one! For you, what’s the consideration for featuring certain pop culture in your debut?

When I chose the art to feature in The Sound of Stars, I really wanted to pick songs and stories that were universal, and modern enough without dating the book. With music, I chose artists and songs that I thought people would keep safe and cherish at the end of the world. For books, Ellie would have lended out stories that meant the world to her, that were diverse and portrayed themes that were dear to her heart; inclusivity, revolutionary, and adventurous!

Told in alternating point-of-views, how was the process of writing the perspective between Ellie and Morris?

Morris and Ellie are two very different characters that form a bridge through art and later affection. It felt very organic to write them, to have their back-and-forth, and share their history and their hopes. I’m a very straightforward writer, I sit down and I write linearly, which I’m not sure is right, but it works for me, ha! So the tone is (hopefully) consistent, but their reactions should feel normal and realistic. I can’t say it enough, I had an absolute blast writing this story!

If this story were to be adapted, are there any actors and actresses that you think will be able to bring these characters to life?

I get asked this question a lot and it’s so tough! There aren’t that many plus size teen black actresses, so it would be hard to cast Ellie. I guess I would go with Riele Downs, but I’m not sure. I would really want a plus-size actress for her, and I can’t think of any right now! For Morris, I would say Xolo Maridueña… he would be perfect!

We’re incredibly excited for this book, as it’s in our list for most anticipated 2020 releases. For you, what’s your most anticipated titles for this year?

My most anticipated releases of this year are… I have so many! I have to say I loved GODDESS IN THE MACHINE by Lora Beth Johnson, GLITCH KINGDOM by Sheena Boekweg, CROWNCHASERS by Rebecca Coffindaffer, and HENNA WARS by Adiba Jaigirdar! I cannot wait to read: A SONG BELOW WATER by Bethany C. Morrow, LEGENDBORN by Tracy Deonn Walker, THE GILDED ONES by Namina Forna, A SONG OF WRAITHS AND RUIN by Roseanne A. Brown, WHERE DREAMS DESCEND by Janella Angeles, INK by Tori Bovalino, and ACE OF SPADES by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé!!

Lastly, what’s next for you?

Right now, I’m going to enjoy my book being released into the world! I’m going to enjoy having a book on shelves and in the hands of teens who may love or need it. And… I’m having TWO book launches: Books of Wonder in NYC on March 16th, 6-8pm in conversation with Sheena Boekweg, Hannah Capin, Katie Henry, Emma Lord, Kyrie McCauley, and moderated by Sierra Elmore…and Astoria Bookshop on March 17th, 7pm, in conversation with the incredible Zoraida Córdova!! Beyond that, I’ve written quite a few new stories that will hopefully one day become books! Fingers crossed. I want to thank you so much for having me, and your thoughtful questions!

Will you be picking up The Sound of Stars? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: Alechia Dow, Author of ‘The Sound of Stars’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

“… life’s short, but it’s the longest thing you’ll ever do, so give more than you take and be kind.”

The Earth is being colonised by other life-forms after an unfortunate misunderstanding between humans and them. How can a girl who runs an illegal library and a music-obsessed alien work together to save humanity from being terminated?

Dow’s freshly released debut, The Sound of Stars, takes place in an aftermath world where the aliens called Ilori are now in charge of Earth. A few remaining human survivors are now imprisoned under Ilori’s surveillance in an apartment complex with no access to arts, books, music, or any other creative media as they considered to be dangerous for triggering human emotions and aggression. Ilori is potentially at risk in this situation if they let these pieces go around, and with that, they have burned and destroyed them all. To top that, Ilori also has strict rules to control humans, where they aren’t allowed to think freely, talk after hours, or even get out of bed past the curfew in hopes it prevents the possibility of rebellion.

But that doesn’t stop Ellie from spreading hope for those around her. While she can’t rely on her parents now for they’re losing their spirits to not just live but being alive, she knows that can’t happen to more people. Believing in the magical power of stories and words, she runs an illegal library and lends books to her fellow neighbours.

“And I’ll do it, every time, if it means a story can change someone’s outlook….”

The library was supposedly safe and sound in a hidden basement, but when a book goes missing, she can’t help but panic for her name was written in that book. What she didn’t know was an alien named Morris, found her hidden library. Being a lab-made and not a pure Ilori, Morris is holding to a different principle about humanity. He can’t help but get invested in humans’ art and creativity, most specifically their music. When he was on his way to do some supervising, he accidentally found a hidden library. Being completely in awe, he browsed through the collection, but when he suddenly heard a sound coming, he panicked and accidentally took a book that he was holding at that moment.

The Sound of Stars was an utter delight and I was having a great time following Ellie and Morris’ journey. Combining the contemporary aspect of friendship and love with the science-fiction aspect of alien invasion and the end of humanity, it delivers a wonderful tale of two contrasted leads that won’t fail to entertain you. Though their relationship started fairly instant for my liking, it surprisingly developed pretty well. I can feel the chemistry and their dynamic was absolutely beautiful.

The other thing that I want to highlight about Dow’s debut is the fact that it’s a character-oriented story. There’s no denying that the plot was entertaining and the worldbuilding was out of the world, but the characters in this story were something else as they demanded your whole attention.

The Sound of Stars is a marvellous genre-bending debut which features not only a meaningful love story, but also the dynamics of family and friendship, the issues of internal racism, along with the incredibly diverse representations.

The Sound of Stars is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers.

Will you be picking up The Sound of Stars? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

Can a girl who risks her life for books and an alien who loves forbidden pop music work together to save humanity?

Two years ago, a misunderstanding between the leaders of Earth and the invading Ilori resulted in the deaths of one-third of the world’s population.

Seventeen-year-old Janelle “Ellie” Baker survives in an Ilori-controlled center in New York City. Deemed dangerously volatile because of their initial reaction to the invasion, humanity’s emotional transgressions are now grounds for execution. All art, books and creative expression are illegal, but Ellie breaks the rules by keeping a secret library. When a book goes missing, Ellie is terrified that the Ilori will track it back to her and kill her.

Born in a lab, M0Rr1S (Morris) was raised to be emotionless. When he finds Ellie’s illegal library, he’s duty-bound to deliver her for execution. The trouble is, he finds himself drawn to human music and in desperate need of more. They’re both breaking the rules for love of art—and Ellie inspires the same feelings in him that music does.

Ellie’s—and humanity’s—fate rests in the hands of an alien she should fear. M0Rr1S has a lot of secrets, but also a potential solution—thousands of miles away. The two embark on a wild and dangerous road trip with a bag of books and their favorite albums, all the while making a story and a song of their own that just might save them both.

The post Review: The Sound of Stars by Alechia Dow appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

The Sound of Stars by Alechia Dow (February 26, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Can a girl who risks her life for books and an alien who loves forbidden pop music work together to save humanity? Ellie and M0Rr1S embark on a wild and dangerous road trip with a bag of books and their favorite albums, all the while making a story and a song of their own that just might save them both.

A Golden Fury by Samantha Cohoe (Release Date: October 13, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In her debut novel, Samantha Cohoe weaves a story of magic and danger, where the streets of Oxford and London come to life, and the curse of the Philosopher’s Stone will haunt you long after the final page.

Jade Fire Gold by June C.L. Tan (Release Date: 2020)
Goodreads 

Told in a dual POV narrative reminiscent of Ember in the Ashes, Jade Fire Gold is a YA fantasy inspired by Chinese mythology and folk tales. Epic in scope but intimate in characterization, fans of classic fantasies by Tamora Pierce and the magical Asiatic setting of Avatar: The Last Airbender will enjoy this cinematic tale of family, revenge, and forgiveness.

Beyond the Ruby Veil by Mara Fitzgerald (Release Date: October 13, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

After endangering their city’s waning water supply, Emanuela and Ale must travel through the mysterious, blood red veil that surrounds the city in order to uncover the secrets of the watercrea’s magic and find a way to save Occhia–by any means necessary.

Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar (Release Date: August 11, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Neil Gaiman’s Stardust meets a rich landscape of Hindu mythology and celestial intrigue in this sparkling YA fantasy debut.

Where Dreams Descend by Janella Angeles (Release Date: June 2, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Where Dreams Descend is the startling and romantic first book in Janella Angeles’ debut Kingdom of Cards fantasy duology where magic is both celebrated and feared, and no heart is left unscathed.

Goddess in the Machine by Lora Beth Johnson (Release Date: June 30, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When a girl wakes from a cryogenic sleep on a planet she doesn’t recognize, she must team up with the mysterious soldier who woke her to navigate a future world where technology is considered magic and its practitioners revered as Deities.

Shielded by KayLynn Flanders (Release Date: July 21, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For fans of Sorcery of Thorns and Furyborn comes a thrilling new fantasy about a kingdom ravaged by war, and the princess who might be the key to saving not only those closest to her, but the kingdom itself, if she reveals the very secret that could destroy her.

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna (Release Date: May 26, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The start of a bold and immersive West African-inspired, feminist fantasy series for fans of Children of Blood and Bone and Black Panther. In this world, girls are outcasts by blood and warriors by choice.

Crownchasers by Rebecca Coffindaffer (Release Date: September 29, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Lara Croft meets Star Wars in this young adult space opera, in which a wisecracking intergalactic adventurer becomes the odds-on favorite to win a deadly, cross-galaxy contest to become the quadrant’s next emperor; too bad she has no intention of winning.

Don’t Call the Wolf by Aleksandra Ross (Release Date: April 28, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A forest, besieged. A queen, unyielding. Fans of Leigh Bardugo and Holly Black will devour this deliciously dark Eastern European–inspired YA fantasy debut.

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (Release Date: September 15, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Filled with mystery and an intriguingly rich magic system, Tracy Deonn’s YA contemporary fantasy Legendborn offers the dark allure of City of Bones with a modern-day twist on a classic legend and a lot of Southern Black Girl Magic.

Elysium Girls by Kate Pentecost (Release Date: April 14, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this sweeping Dust Bowl-inspired fantasy, a ten-year game between Life and Death pits the walled Oklahoma city of Elysium-including a girl gang of witches and a demon who longs for humanity-against the supernatural in order to judge mankind.

Queen of Coin and Whispers by Helen Corcoran (Release Date: April 23, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When teenage queen Lia inherits her corrupt uncle’s bankrupt kingdom, she brings a new spymaster into the fold … Xania, who takes the job to avenge her murdered father. Faced with dangerous plots and hidden enemies, can Lia and Xania learn to rely on each other, as they discover that all is not fair in love and treason?

In the Shadow of the Sun by EM Castellan (Release Date: February 11, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

France, 1661 – Henriette of England must navigate her arranged marriage to Louis XIV’s brother while keeping her magical abilities a careful secret from all at the Sun King’s court, but when a mysterious sorcerer uses a forbidden spell to murder royal magicians, she must decide if she will reveal her powers to help Louis defeat him and build a new, enchanted seat of power — the Palace of Versailles.

The Dark Tide by Alicia Jasinska (Release Date: June 2, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Wicked Deep meets A Curse So Dark and Lonely in this gripping, dark fairy-tale fantasy about two girls who must choose between saving themselves, each other, or their sinking island city.

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne Brown (Release Date: June 2, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The first in an immersive fantasy duology inspired by West African folklore in which a grieving crown princess and a desperate refugee find themselves on a collision course to murder each other despite their growing attraction.

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas (Release Date: June 9, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A trans boy determined to prove his gender to his conservative Latinx family summons a ghost who refuses to leave in this paranormal YA debut.

The Ninth Life by Taylor B. Barton (Release Date: September 15, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Filled with heart, hope and beautiful prose, The Ninth Life is a wonderful, weird and unforgettable novel for readers looking for something unique, honest and real.

A Miracle of Roses by Diana Pinguicha  (Release Date: December 1, 2020)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A Miracle of Roses is an f/f #OwnVoices retelling of the Portuguese miracle of the same name, where the Princess of Aragon enters a bargain with an Enchanted Moura so she can reverse her gift that turns all the food she touches into flowers.

Do you have any other recommendations? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 20 SFF YA Debuts To Watch Out For In 2020 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Alechia: Hey Andrea!! I’m so excited for your book, REBELWING! First of all, hello fellow science-fiction author debuting on the same day as me, heyyyy. Secondly, sentient cybernetic dragon… I want to know so much about this. Can you tell me your inspiration for REBELWING and of course, sentient cybernetic dragons?

Andrea: Hey there sci-fi debut buddy! Great question to kick things off with. REBELWING was in large part inspired by the desire to write a big SFF genre adventure with a contemporary voice and flavor. I’ve always been tickled by the notion of mundane problems in larger-than-life science fiction and fantasy plots – the bureaucracy and day-to-day paperwork involved in overthrowing an evil dictatorship, or getting licensed to pilot a giant robot, or balancing college admissions exams with saving the world. As for sentient cybernetic dragons, I love both dragons and mecha, so I figured those were two great flavors that might just taste great together, and am very fortunate to have found an agent and publisher who agreed!

Meanwhile, I’m mega intrigued by your take on the alien invasion plot. Can you tell me more about your inspiration for that?

Alechia: I grew up loving Star Wars, and aliens and always wanted to tell an alien story that explores humanity through an alien lense. THE SOUND OF STARS is that story. It allowed me to write all of the themes and ideas I’ve had over the years. After shelving two books, I sat down to write something new, and the first thing that came to mind was a teen librarian sneakily handing out books from her locker at school. I needed to understand why she was sneaking, what was wrong with the world that books were illegal? I took a long walk, thought about the kind of story I wanted to tell, and THE SOUND OF STARS came together. It was such a pleasure to write a story that features a book-loving black girl, a music-loving alien boy, and an epic road trip with so many lyrics and pop culture references. It was a love letter to art, and how it connects people from two very different worlds. Sometimes focusing on what connects us can make what separates us a little less important, and I feel that’s an important message right now.

Question for you: both of our stories are set in the near-future…how hard was it to imagine Washington DC as a dystopian city? Also second question, why DC? 

Andrea: So, the lazy answer is that DC was an easy setting because I live and work here. Speculative worldbuilding off of an existing canvas that you see literally every day right outside of your apartment window is probably the easiest cheat there is — all I had to do was layer some cyberpunk aesthetic and tech over a real landscape. That said, DC also made sense for a politically-fueled plot. As a modern-day epicenter of power struggles and court intrigue, it’s not too much of a stretch to imagine it playing a similar role in a near-future version of the North American continent!

Lobbing a question over to you: do you find that your own personality filtered into your characters? 

Alechia: It did in so many ways! Ellie is a plus-size black girl with anxiety and chronic illness. We may share the same identities, but I relate to Morris more than Ellie. We wear our hearts on our sleeves, we’re sensitive, a bit goofy, and totally confused sometimes, haha. Both characters love music and books, which is definitely me… and I’d totally travel across the US to save humanity AND art.

Okay, same question back at you… but I also want to know, how does your background in martial arts and Tae Kwon Do (omg, SO COOL) filter into your action scenes and the way your characters move? I know that’s a bit of a weird question, but when I write action/fights, I have to watch Ilsa Faust scenes from Mission Impossible, so I’m curious to know how someone with knowledge of martial arts writes action…

Andrea: Haha, I’m a giant fight nerd, so I love that you asked this! In the case of REBELWING, it’s a little tricky, since almost all of the action and combat sequences are conducted via mechanical creatures – some humanoid, some not – so that’s definitely an adjustment that has to be made from just normal hand-to-hand sparring that you’d see in contemporary martial arts or combat sports. That said, I do find some crossover experiences helpful to injecting a bit of oomph into even the mech fights – the adrenaline dump right before and during a tough spar or matchup, the way fear of or proximity to physical danger affects the way you breathe and move, and the way you learn to think and physically react under pressure were all helpful things to keep in mind for those scenes!

Speaking of letting hobbies and/or professional skill sets filter into our creative work, how does your background in pastry arts and librarianship affect your writing? 

Alechia: In THE SOUND OF STARS, I got to use my knowledge and research (lol) of popular young adult books. When I was a teen, there weren’t so many diverse stories out there, and not ones that are as inclusive and revolutionary as today. Which is really another conversation about how brave and vocal teens are today. That said, when I thought about what books Ellie would be reading, I took that into account and tried to find ones that matched her personality. The stories I wrote since THE SOUND OF STARS are a bit more foodtastic. I got to use my love of food writing in a contemporary fantasy that also includes recipes! I try to write what I enjoy, and hopefully you can read that passion on the page.

So here’s my big, bold question. Science fiction. What made you fall in love with science fiction? What are your favorite stories? What do you think will happen in the future of YA scifi? 

Andrea: Fantastic question! I love that there’s no real limit to the storytelling options in science fiction – it’s such a flexible, creative genre, and it asks questions that can be both super fun and deeply profound. Plus, honestly, I really first fell for sci-fi through kid lit — most notably the Animorphs novels, as well as a lot of superhero comics (and ensuing animated adaptations, to say nothing of the good old anime classics!). As for the future, with so many incredible, innovative new sci-fi stories from a range of voices and author backgrounds coming up on the YA market, I think we’re going to keep seeing an evolution in the genre – which really, is what sci-fi should ideally do!

What about you? What are some of your favorite sci-fi stories and what draws you to this shared genre of ours?

Alechia: I fell in love with scifi early on; Gargoyles, every episode and each comic book I could find at my local library of X-Men, Star Wars, and some old school Star Trek. When I was a teen, I read a lot of mysteries and Philip K. Dick. Science fiction, to me, is the best genre because it’s popcorn escapism; you can totally forget where you are, who you are, and enjoy the story unfolding in front of you while eating popcorn… is that an actual term? I fell in love with Octavia Butler, but while the genre itself was/is more diverse than others, there still wasn’t a lot of representation. If you look at some of the oldest sci-fi stories, they’re predominantly white. When I decided to write for fun and eventually with the aim of publishing, science fiction felt right. You can explore so many topics and themes in science fiction and you can be totally inclusive. I hope I can write more sci-fi books, I feel like there are so many stories that haven’t been told yet, and want to see the genre thrive.

Next question: can you give us a hint of what you’re working on next? For me, it’s foodie fantasy, more science fiction exploring humanity (my favorite kind of themes, can you tell?), and maybe one day, a rom-com whodunnit, which would be totally fun!

Andrea: At the moment, I’m toiling away on a companion novel to REBELWING, but one of these days, I’d like to branch out into contemporary fantasy, which is my other great genre love of mine. I have a few fun ideas cooking in the back of my mind, including a really voicey first-person fantasy thriller with an unreliable narrator, but I’m trying not to let it distract me from my current deadlines, with mixed success!

Are there any books whose releases you’re particularly looking forward to?

Alechia: This was such a pleasure! I’ve been wanting to talk to you forever! There aren’t that many YA science fiction authors, we’ve got to stick together. As for some of the books coming out soon, I have to say I love GODDESS IN THE MACHINE by Lora Beth Johnson, GLITCH KINGDOM by Sheena Boekweg, CROWNCHASERS by Rebecca Coffindaffer, and HENNA WARS by Adiba Jaigirdar! Books I’m looking forward to reading: A SONG BELOW WATER by Bethany C. Morrow, LEGENDBORN by Tracy Deonn, THE GILDED ONES by Namina Forna, A SONG OF WRAITHS AND RUIN by Roseanne A. Brown, WHERE DREAMS DESCEND by Janella Angeles, INK by Tori Bovalino, and ACE OF SPADES by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé!!

So many good books to read, right?

Will you be picking up Andrea and Alechia’s new books? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Authors In Conversation: Alechia Dow & Andrea Tang appeared first on The Nerd Daily.