The movie adaptation of ‘The Watchers’ is in theaters now. Photo: Amazon
Book to movie adaptations bring beloved characters and intricate plots to life, yet often spark debates among fans about the faithfulness to the source material. Directors face the challenge of condensing rich narratives into a cinematic format, risking either losing nuance or gaining new perspectives. Successful adaptations capture the essence of the book while leveraging the unique power of film to enhance emotion and spectacle. These adaptations continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The most current one is “The Watchers” by A.M. Shine; the movie adaptation, produced by M. Night Shyamalan and starring Dakota Fanning, is currently out in movie theaters nationwide.
A.M. Shine writes in the Gothic horror tradition. Born in Galway, Ireland, he received his Master’s Degree in History there before sharpening his quill and pursuing all things literary and macabre. His stories have won the Word Hut and Bookers Corner prizes and he is a member of the Irish Writers Centre. His debut novel, “The Watchers,” has received critical acclaim. It is a horror adventure set in the remote and sinister forests of Ireland. (Amazon, 2024)
“The Watchers” – You can’t see them. But they can see you.
This forest isn’t charted on any map. Every car breaks down at its treeline. Mina’s is no different. Left stranded, she is forced into the dark woodland only to find a woman shouting, urging Mina to run to a concrete bunker. As the door slams behind her, the building is besieged by screams.
Mina finds herself in a room with a wall of glass, and an electric light that activates at nightfall, when the Watchers come above ground. These creatures emerge to observe their captive humans and terrible things happen to anyone who doesn’t reach the bunker in time.
Afraid and trapped among strangers, Mina is desperate for answers. Who are the Watchers, and why are they keeping the humans imprisoned, keen to watch their every move?
‘Neon Lights and Plane Tickets: A Cosmic Poetic Prose Collection’ Photo: Eli Alemán, used with permission.
Poetry is a type of artistic writing meant to stir a reader’s emotions or imagination. It is very near to my heart because it is the first type of writing I used to express myself. Combined with science fiction, one of my favorite genres of novels, it makes for a unique reading experience. This is the case in today’s new book release: “Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” by Eli Alemán. It is a sci-fi poetic prose collection with themes of horror, science fiction, and urban legends and poems such as: District, Phantasmagoric Reverie, The Bloody Birth of Conscience, and Layers of Silence. If you love poetry and science fiction, this is one poetry collection that should be next on your TBR (to be read) list. “Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Goodreads. Pick up your copy today and experience this fascination book of poetry.
Eli Alemán has been an avid reader since childhood, spending countless hours immersing herself in fantastic worlds and daydreaming of being a part of them. An adventurous and curious spirit led her to become a world traveler and a scientist. She is a microbiologist currently working on marine biology research. She loves nature and the ocean. Despite her field’s logical and analytical nature, her artistic heart beats strong. Eli Alemán is an award-winning artist and now author. Her favorite genres are science fiction, fantasy, horror, and comedy.
“Neon Lights and Plane Tickets”– Neon Lights and Plane Tickets is a sci-fi-themed collection of poetic prose, featuring tales of cosmic horror and galactic urban legends. Explore lush and vibrant cities across the universe, the terrifying creatures they hide, and their inhabitants’ adventures (or misadventures, as the case may be). Bright neon lights and illusions of technological advancement are fine distractions to keep their rotting societies hidden within their foundations—reflections on the intricacies of human nature. (Amazon, 2024)
‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ is the new fantasy novel by Tal Storm. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.
Fantasy novels are so exciting to read because they often transport you to other worlds and realms filled with mythical and magical beings. Magic and a quest for power usually play a big part. If fantasy novels are your go to for escapist reads, consider today’s new book release. “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” by Tal Storm is a dark fantasy story about a young noble girl named Darah Mata. She gets turned into a vampire by her uncle and is forced to learn the dark art of Necromancy. She is tortured for any of her failings and despite the pain, she still yearns for her freedom. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Pick up your copy of “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” on Amazon and find out what happens to Darah.
Tal Storm is an author, a groundskeeper, and a small engine repairman. When not working on equipment, his mind wanders to another world filled with fun fantasy and sci-fi stories. Now, he wishes to share these tales with everyone who loves to share in the joy of fantasy. (Tal Storm, 2023)
“Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” – In Alleria, the Tel’eev Ascendency’s war of conquest sent ripples throughout the world. This is true for Darah Mata, who has been turned into a vampire by the machinations of her uncle. Now, she is forced to learn the dreaded magic of necromancy while being tortured for any failings. Will she be able to attain the freedom from this torment that she seeks?
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Necrohamster wearing a dark cloak. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.
‘Don’t Say Cis’ is the new science fiction novel by Hunter Cahoon and Cole Deyo. Photo: Amazon
The theme for today is philosophy and going with that, some people would say that there is a rise in hedonistic nihilism in our current society. Hedonistic nihilism is the belief that if life is inherently meaningless, and since you only live once, then you might as well enjoy your life to the maximum. If you are interested in deep philosophical discussions and enjoy authors like Franz Kafka, Friedrich Nietzsche, George Orwell, H.G Wells, and others, then you might want to check out today’s new book release. “Don’t Say Cis” by Hunter Z Cahoon and Cole A Deyo is a dystopian novel focused on hedonistic nihilism and how it affects the life of one family and the world around them. It is sure to leave an impression on readers and hopefully start a meaningful dialogue on what motivates humankind – it is available on Amazon.
Hunter Cahoon is a current masters student in clinical mental health. His narratives focus on the psychological effects of particular personal philosophies. Mainly, hedonism and nihilism are often critiqued harshly in his works. Cahoon’s inspirations are none other then Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Fredrich Nietzsche, and Franz Kafka. Fans of these authors and psychologists will likely enjoy many elements found in Cahoon’s writings, which blend creativity with deep psychological and philosophical discussion. In the new book “Don’t Say Cis, current master student in clinical mental health, Hunter Cahoon and current bachelor student, Cole Deyo attack the current trend of hedonic nihilism occurring in America while showing the negative effects of banning free speech and intellectual diversity which could help stop the spread of such a philosophy. (Hunter Cahoon, 2023)
“Don’t Say Cis” – What happens when society continues its trend of pursuing the lowest quality pleasures to fill its hedonistic desires? The year is 2059, and a small family finds themselves in this new world full of depression and despair. The group finds the lack of free speech and narrow mindedness of the citizens turn deadly for them. At every turn there is nihilism, purposelessness, false virtues, ignorance of the highest possible good, suicide, impulsively violent anger, and many injustices.
The Crown of Tannenley is the new short story by Liza Clarke. Photo: Amazon
Science fiction and fantasy works of literature are fascinating because they transport the reader to make believe worlds, kingdoms, and faraway planets. When I want to escape from the ‘real world,’ I pick up the latest epic novel and get lost in its pages for days. If you like stories similar to The Chronicles of Narnia, A Game of Thrones, and Lord of the Rings, today’s new release, The Crown of Tannenley by Liza Clarke, just might be your next read. It involves kings, queens, invading armies, kingdoms, and all the interesting elements that make fantasy books so exciting.
Liza Clarke lives in the suburbs of Sydney, Australia, loves to travel, and has always enjoyed a good book. She has two cats who like to help her write, though their level of helpfulness is questionable. She has always loved reading fantasy and sci-fi and now she gets to write about it. She has a BA and MA in history and hopes to incorporate them more in her writing. In her new short story The Crown of Tannenley, the future of the kingdom is at stake as a young new king takes over. It is available on Amazon and other book retailers. More on the author here. (Liza Clarke, 2023)
The Crown of Tannenley – The young Queen did her best to defend her people and kingdom – she failed. With her death, the crown fell to her young cousin who she had sent with the refugees. Nickolas was never meant to be King, never wanted the throne, but now he was the only one of the family left. Could he rally not only his people but the Mages’ College to drive the invaders back? Clashing with King Edric was not part of the plan but he had no choice, he had to do what was right for his people, even those from other kingdoms who had been forced to flee. Would the line of Tannenbay end with him or would he win the war?
‘Sarcaun: The Journey’ by Simone Voltaire. Photo: Amazon
Simone Voltaire is a first-time author who has always loved reading a variety of genres including the classics, science fiction, fantasy, and mystery books. The creativity and captivating imagination that she enjoyed reading inspired her to put her own imagination into words to share with others. Her father, Arnauld Voltaire, who himself wrote plays and stories, is the one who encouraged her to pursue her goal of writing. She first started by writing short stories that she shared with friends and family but eventually decided to set a goal of writing a book. She wrote “Sarcaun: The Journey” in a span of a few years; it is an integration of many short stories and adventures that she had written that entailed the world of Sarcaun when she first started writing. The book has been positively reviewed by Sarah Poulette from US Review of Books. She is currently working on completing book two of “Sarcaun.” (Simone Voltaire, 2023)
“Sarcaun: The Journey” – For millions of years, gifted Gens lived on earth, until they decided to leave to protect their kind from humans. Thousands of years later, Princess Norellyia is sent from Sarcaun on a trip to earth in order to change her attitude. While living with a family on earth, she discovers a secret about the daughter, Melanie. She intervenes and ends up rescuing Melanie from trouble. In the meantime, chaos ensues on the planet of Sarcaun as evil is unleashed through the portal created by her departure to earth. Norellyia finds herself on a journey that will change her life forever. Also available on Barnes & Noble.
‘Vengeful Strike’ is the new novel by Jah-Femi Telewa. Photo: Amazon
Jah-Femi Telewa or J.F.T., is a multiple award winning author and multiple award winning composer. His first book titled ‘Somewhere Enchanted’ (under his previous pen name or rather initials J.F.T.) earned 2 awards, one from the Next Generation Indie Book Awards (Indie Book Awards), the other from Literary Titan and has been widely well accepted. His new book “Vengeful Strike” is a tale of morality. Given the choice between right and wrong, the promise imbued within the sword will see kingdoms rise and fall. (Jah-Femi Telewa, 2022)
“Vengeful Strike” – Given an unexpected gift, one man has the power to save his kingdom, or damn it. Life is thrown into turmoil when a fleet of ships arrive off the shores of the kingdom of Nottaly with the promise of gold and riches. The king eagerly accepts his new guests, proclaiming them friends. It is a decision that will come to shape generations.
Nottaly is a kingdom constantly at war, so when the king’s champion is blessed with a special sword capable of saving the kingdom, the king turns to Killsmani to lead his armies in one campaign after the next. Armed with a powerful sword and a host of new allies at his side, the champion quickly discovers all is not well in the heart of Nottaly. A coup is underway. The righteous will fall. Champions become disgraced. What was once considered a blessing quickly turns to the very instrument capable of ruining lives. Seduced by the lure of power and riches, all Killsmani has to do is pick up his sword.
‘The Lost Apothecary’ by Sarah Penner is a new historical fiction novel and is set for release on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. Photo: amazon
Looking for a new book to read this month? The following is a list of noteworthy March releases according to Goodreads. (amazon, 2021)
Mystery & Thriller: ‘Every Last Fear’ by Alex Finlay. Release date: March 2, 2021 In one of the year’s most anticipated debut psychological thrillers, a family made infamous by a true crime documentary is found dead, leaving their surviving son to uncover the truth about their final days. After a late night of partying, NYU student Matt Pine returns to his dorm room to devastating news: nearly his entire family―his mom, his dad, his little brother and sister―have been found dead from an apparent gas leak while vacationing in Mexico. The local police claim it was an accident, but the FBI and State Department seem far less certain―and they will not tell Matt why. When Matt returns to his small hometown to bury his parents and siblings, he is faced with a hostile community, a frenzied media, and memories he had hoped to leave behind forever. Told through multiple points-of-view and alternating between past and present, Alex Finlay’s ‘Every Last Fear’ is not only a page-turning thriller, but also a poignant story about a family managing heartbreak and tragedy and living through a fame they never wanted.
Science Fiction: ‘Machinehood’ by S.B.Divya. Release date: March 2, 2021 From the Hugo Award nominee S.B. Divya, Zero Dark Thirty meets The Social Network in this science fiction thriller about artificial intelligence, sentience, and labor rights in a near future dominated by the gig economy. Welga Ramirez, executive bodyguard and ex-special forces, is about to retire early when her client is killed in front of her. The year is 2095 and people do not usually die from violence. Humanity is entirely dependent on pills that not only help them stay alive but allow them to compete with artificial intelligence in an increasingly competitive gig economy. Daily doses protect against designer diseases, flow enhances focus, zips and buffs enhance physical strength and speed, and juvers speed the healing process. All that changes when Welga’s client is killed by The Machinehood, a new and mysterious terrorist group that has simultaneously attacked several major pill funders. The Machinehood operatives seem to be part human, part machine, something the world has never seen. They issue an ultimatum: stop all pill production in one week. Global panic ensues as pill production slows and many become ill. Thousands destroy their bots in fear of a strong AI takeover. Who are the Machinehood and what do they really want?
Fantasy: ‘The Bone Maker’ by Sarah Beth Durst. Release date: March 9, 2021 From award-winning author Sarah Beth Durst, a standalone epic fantasy set in a brand-new world of towering mountains and sparkling cities, in which a band of aging warriors have a second chance to defeat dark magic and avenge a haunting loss. Twenty-five years ago, five heroes risked their lives to defeat the bone maker Eklor—a corrupt magician who created an inhuman army using animal bones. But victory came at a tragic price. Only four of the heroes survived. Since then, Kreya, the group’s leader, has exiled herself to a remote tower and devoted herself to one purpose: resurrecting her dead husband. But such a task requires both a cache of human bones and a sacrifice—for each day he lives, she will live one less. She would rather live one year with her husband than a hundred without him but using human bones for magic is illegal in Vos. The dead are burned—as are any bone workers who violate the law. Yet Kreya knows where she can find the bones she needs: the battlefield where her husband and countless others lost their lives. But defying the laws of the land exposes a terrible possibility. Maybe the dead do not rest in peace after all.
Historical Fiction: ‘The Lost Apothecary’ by Sarah Penner. Release date: March 2, 2021 Hidden in the depths of eighteenth-century London, a secret apothecary shop caters to an unusual kind of clientele. Women across the city whisper of a mysterious figure named Nella who sells well-disguised poisons to use against the oppressive men in their lives. But the apothecary’s fate is jeopardized when her newest patron, a precocious twelve-year-old, makes a fatal mistake, sparking a string of consequences that echo through the centuries. Meanwhile in present-day London, aspiring historian Caroline Parcewell spends her tenth wedding anniversary alone, running from her own demons. When she stumbles upon a clue to the unsolved apothecary murders that haunted London two hundred years ago, her life collides with the apothecary’s in a stunning twist of fate—and not everyone will survive. With crackling suspense, unforgettable characters and searing insight, ‘The Lost Apothecary’ is a subversive and intoxicating debut novel of secrets, vengeance and the remarkable ways women can save each other despite the barrier of time.
SA Examiner 