11 new science fiction and fantasy book releases to make your May magical
By Lacy Baugher
May 2021 release: Immunity Index – Sue Burke
Sue Burke, the author of Semiosis and Interference, gives readers a new near-future, painfully possible science fiction novel. Described as a story that blends Orphan Black with Contagion, Immunity Index paints a picture of a terrifying outbreak scenario that feels all too timely in our current moment.
The story takes place in a near-future United States that is faced with growing food shortages, stark inequality, and a government edging toward fascism. As rumors of a deadly virus circulate through an unprotected and vulnerable population on the verge of a revolution, three women – created by the gifted geneticist, Peng – discover they may hold the key to the future.
The official synopsis describes the story as follows.
"In a US facing growing food shortages, stark inequality, and a growing fascist government, three perfectly normal young women are about to find out that they share a great deal in common. Their creator, the gifted geneticist Peng, made them that way–before such things were outlawed. Rumors of a virus make their way through an unprotected population on the verge of rebellion, only to have it turn deadly. As the women fight to stay alive and help, Peng races to find a cure–and the cover up behind the virus"
Immunity Index is available on May 4.