21 magical science fiction and fantasy books to read in summer 2021
By Lacy Baugher
Summer 2021 release: The World Gives Way – Marissa Levien
Described as a story perfect for fans of Station Eleven, Karen Thompson Walker, and Naomi Alderman The World Gives Way is a portrait of a world in freefall, and the fierce drive to live even at the end of it all.
The story is set on a “generation ship”, an interstellar vehicle carrying those wealthy enough to escape Earth and those workers who are bound to serve them for its 200 year journey. Myrra Dal was born an indentured worker here, but since her generation will see the end of the trip and the freedom that comes at the end of their contracts, she just has to make it for the next fifty years serving the powerful Carlyle family.
But when the Carlyles die unexpectedly and Myrra discovers the dangerous secret the elites have been harboring, everything will change – and not just for her, but everyone on board.
The official synopsis offers more details about the story.
"In fifty years, Myrra will be free. Until then, she’s a contract worker. Ever since she was five, her life and labor have belonged to the highest bidder on her contract—butchers, laundries, and now the powerful, secretive Carlyles. But when one night finds the Carlyles dead, Myrra is suddenly free a lot sooner than she anticipated—and at a cost she never could have imagined. Burdened with the Carlyles’ orphaned daughter and the terrible secret they died to escape, she runs. With time running out, Myrra must come face to face with the truth about her world—and embrace what’s left before it’s too late."
The World Gives Way is available on June 15.