12 SFF book releases you need to make April an epic adventure

The Luminous Dead – Caitlin Starling

Caitlin Starling’s debut science-fiction release, The Luminous Dead, has already been compared to popular novels like Andy Weir’s The Martian and Jeff Vandermeer’s Annihilation. That’s high praise for any science-fiction story—and especially for an author’s first novel—and the synopsis of Starling’s new book suggests that the story will live up to the hype, at least where psychological suspense is concerned.

The novel follows Gyre Price, a caver who “lied her way into” the expedition she’s currently on. Believing that she’d have little to worry about on a journey spent mapping mineral deposits, Gyre took on the task hoping to make some desperately needed money. Instead, she finds herself partnered with Em—and Em knows all about Gyre’s lies.

This becomes a serious problem when Em uses that knowledge to control and manipulate Gyre. Not only does Em keep critical information about the mission from her, but Em also drugs her repeatedly. With reality blurring with hallucination, Gyre finds herself slipping. As she grows increasingly paranoid, she’s forced to grapple with the dark forces at play both inside and outside of her mind.

The Luminious Dead straddles the line between science-fiction and horror, making it perfect for readers looking for a fast-paced, intense thriller. According to early reviewers, the cave setting only adds to the eerie vibe of the book, making readers feel as claustrophobic and horrified as the main character. Of course, both Em and Gyre have secrets that will keep readers turning the pages, eager to learn what’s actually going on here. They can find out when The Luminous Dead hits shelves on April 2.