2027 ENTRANTS
Added as our first-round reviewers read them, find the latest verdict blurbs for the 2027 IndieReader Discovery Award entrants, leading up to the big winner announcement in June 2028!
RISING UP by Tanya Ross captures a futuristic society that has succumbed to dictatorship, centralizing citizen rights to an unconventional ranking system. Despite some obvious inconsistencies in pace and development, this book offers an ethereal perspective that showcases not only its original world-building, but also complex challenges and innovative ideologies.
Set in the not-so-distant future, INFLUENCE CAMPAIGN by Travis Franklin follows a ragtag group of individuals variously scorned by internet technologies: neurodivergent Allan, laid-off tech guy Canard, and Fayad, an immigrant displaced by war, all led by the young and quirky Doctor Grover, a human embodiment of foreshadowing and a voice of reason. The novel, smart and politically charged and reminiscent of stories in which AI entities attempt to overpower and enslave humankind, is set in a political and highly plausible not-too-distant future. Its divisive technologies make it feel almost dystopian, but the tech is not so different from the AI, bot accounts, and false information that social media users and the “chronically online” are already witnessing today. A perfect tale for the thoughtful, the analytical, and the just, this fast-paced story is immensely enjoyable in its mission.
H.J. Koch creates a delightful mix of history and poetry in THAYER’S RETURN. A West Point cadet learns the school’s history (and by extension, the country’s history) from its beginnings in 1802 through the end of World War I through ghostly visits from West Point’s founder, Sylvanus Thayer. Conversing in verse, each man learns from the other. The piece is rhythmically beautiful, with sharp imagery and sensory detail. THAYER’S RETURN is unique, both historical poetry and poetic history.
In SACRED SEVENTH, Peter Bell explores themes of destiny, faith, and hidden knowledge through a narrative shaped by the symbolic power of the number seven. Blending spiritual inquiry with elements of suspense and discovery, the novel invites readers to contemplate larger metaphysical questions while following a character-driven journey. Its thoughtful tone and layered concepts will appeal to those drawn to fiction that intertwines mystery with philosophical depth.
GOODBYE DEMONS by JJ Harrigan is the story of Angie, a former figure skater turned member of the Peace Corps. She, along with her friends, devotes her life to teaching ESL to the people of Tunis. This book opens the heart and minds of the reader, counting their blessings and having gratitude for what they have such as good health and education. Despite certain passages being difficult to read, the story is beyond inspirational and it will touch the hearts of many people.
ROAD TO GLORY by James Brady weaves together a complex coming-of-age tale with national turmoil and individual aspirations during the end of the Napoleonic Wars. For fans of character-and conscience-driven historical fiction, Brady paints a striking picture of youth, honor, and redemption via David Talbot's moral dilemmas and developing connections.
A CLAN CHIEF'S DAUGHTER: She Who Rides Horses (Book Two) expands its world with vivid cultural detail and a strong sense of character continuity. Sarah V. Barnes delivers a story that blends adventure with emotional growth, appealing to readers who enjoy character-focused historical or tribal narratives. Its immersive setting and evolving protagonist (Naya, ‘the first person to ride a horse’) add depth to the series. Books about the relationship between people and horses are not necessarily unique, but the nuance with which Barnes explores these themes certainly is, and makes for an excellent read.
Having emigrated to America at a young age, author Hoangmai Pham gives readers a look at life and discovery in BRIDGE FROM SAIGON: A Viet-American Memoir of Family and Mind. A respected physician and health advocate, Dr. Pham (or “Mai,” as she’s known to family and friends) fled Saigon at the end of the Vietnam war. After returning to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, she found herself fighting her own psychological demons and split personalities. Complete with personal photographs and a “cast of characters” to help readers keep track of who’s who, BRIDGE FROM SAIGON offers perspective from someone who’s lived in two very different worlds.
FIX THE FIRE DAMAGE (The Everyday Pain Guide Book 2) by Ya-Ling J. Liou is a substantial but well-organized guide to releasing pain, easing chronic stress on the body and muscles, and preventing further damage and future pain. There are sections explaining the source and solutions for pain, descriptions of exercises and stretches designed to release pain and strengthen the body, dietary recommendations to prevent inflammation, and suggestions for emotional and mental health management. Liou uses simple, understandable language, a clear organizational structure, and useful reference diagrams to make the book easy to use. Exercises, for example, are presented with pictures to show positions, as well as text explaining goals, positions, movement actions, and what to focus on. Of course any medical decisions should be discussed with one’s own doctors and medical professionals, but this seems to be a helpful reference for anyone suffering from pain, whether chronic or acute.
Delivering hard-earned “Rocket Wisdom” that actually teaches you how to survive building something from nothing, Mark Haertzen’s STAY THIRSTY traces a six-decade journey from a scarcity-shaped childhood and early hustles to building Rocket Man into a major player in stadium beverage vending. Haertzen walks readers through the full 31-year arc of his company—from garage prototype to selling millions of drinks at Super Bowls and Kentucky Derbies, sharing the financial strain, family pressure, hard downsizing decisions, and his gradual shift from gut instinct to data-driven leadership while admitting to every rookie mistake imaginable along the way. Honest, practical, and surprisingly personal, this memoir strips away billionaire mythology and proves that long-term success is less about a lucky break and more about grit, humility, teamwork, and the stubborn will to keep getting back up.
SARCAUN: The Journey by Simone Voltaire is a journey unlike any other filled with drama, suspense, and shocking twists that will leave readers breathless. The journey between Sarcaun and Earth, Princess Norellyia is in for quite the ride from being the hero to conquering her biggest challenge yet, saving Sarcaun. Even though there were some confusing transitions, the book is exciting, adventurous, and attention-grabbing, something for everyone.
Patricia Knight Meyer's WONDERLAND: Memoir of a Black-Market Adoption is a deeply personal memoir of the author's "black market" adoption, the decades of trauma and abuse that followed, and the painstaking search for answers about her birth family. The writing brings every detail to light in all its heart-wrenching glory; painting a haunting yet accurate picture of the system's failure to protect adoptees, and its dire consequences for the children who were negligently handed to whoever paid the exorbitant adoption fee with no due diligence. WONDERLAND proves to be a once in a lifetime kind of work, staying with readers long after the last page is turned.
i wish i was worse is an raw, unflinching memoir on womanhood, double standards, and kicking against expectations. Author Shirin Delalat situates her sharp, sardonic style to skewer the hypocrisy of workplace culture, interpersonal relationships, and the vicissitudes of family life in a read that is by turns enthralling and excoriating.
OF GEMS AND STONE introduces a richly drawn fantasy world anchored by a compelling and deeply human protagonist in Desnia. Jonathan D. Lambert balances dynamic action with emotionally resonant character relationships, creating a narrative that feels both immersive and heartfelt. There is something very genuine about the characters—the siblings Kolden and Orne, in particular, make for great reading. Readers who enjoy character-driven epic fantasy with strong emotional stakes will find much to appreciate here.
THE CROSSOVER by Francis T. Crowley explores the interconnectedness between religion, science, and grief. While there is an intriguing concept present, it is sometimes disjointed in its exploration of these themes.
SHE WHO RIDES HORSES by Sarah V. Barnes follows Naya, a young girl whose deep bond with animals unfolds against the backdrop of an ancient world on the cusp of transformation. Blending historical imagination with an emotionally grounded narrative, the novel explores connection, empathy, and the evolving relationship between humans and animals in a way that will resonate with readers drawn to character-driven historical fiction.
RUNNING IN THE DARK opens with its protagonist—Peter Whitby—alone on an unlit stretch of road, a head torch cutting through the blackness; an early scene that immediately establishes both the physical and psychological isolation at the heart of Paul W. Walmsley’s novel. As the narrative unfolds, the act of running becomes more than routine; it’s a way for Whitby to process grief, guilt, and the lingering weight of past decisions, particularly in the recurring flashbacks to a fractured relationship and a moment of loss that continues to haunt him. Walmsley’s strength lies in these contrasts: the calm, almost meditative cadence of long-distance running set against sudden intrusions of tension—like the unexplained sounds in the darkness, or the growing sense that he may not be as alone as he thinks. These moments are handled with restraint, allowing atmosphere to build gradually rather than relying on overt shocks and with its short, punchy chapters RUNNING IN THE DARK is difficult to put down.
CHASING LEGENDS is more than just a collection of motorcycling stories from Aaron Pufal’s podcast conversations. It’s a remarkable book that explores not only the mechanics of adventure motorcycling, including what it takes to compete in the world’s toughest road races, but also examines the backgrounds, inspirations, and sacrifices of those involved, and the profound connections forged among them.
Woven together with Puful’s personal insights and fascinating historical context, riders, filmmakers, and writers share their experiences and philosophies, reflecting with raw honesty on what motivated them and continues to do so. Forensic, authentic, and entertaining, CHASING LEGENDS goes beyond being a must-read for adventure motorcycling enthusiasts and has universal appeal.
FINDING WELLNESS: Essential and Expert Articles for Healing Your Mind, Body, and Spirit by Randall Hansen speaks with a clear and grounded voice: healing is not optional. Through a “wholeistic” lens that challenges norms and embraces what others might dismiss, Hansen encourages readers to open their minds and hearts. It becomes an invitation to face trauma directly and recognize the inner work as an essential part of being human.
Through the wild and unfiltered lens of adolescence, CATATONIC SMILE by Julian Aguirre captures the rhythm of a teenage mind with striking authenticity, weaving humor, curiosity, and inner dialogue into a voice that feels both intimate and unexpectedly original.
THE QUEST FOR CALINORE offers an imaginative fantasy adventure that links Dylan’s coming-of-age story with a mysterious amulet and journal that lead to another world. Theresa Leyes builds intrigue through memorable moments, particularly Dylan’s unsettling visions and the fate of King Paul, while keeping the narrative clear and engaging. The story moves at a steady pace, gradually revealing its secrets in a way that will appeal to younger fantasy readers. Its blend of mystery, magic, and emotional stakes gives the novel a strong sense of purpose and momentum. Overall, it serves as an inviting and promising introduction to a larger series.
Not exactly romance, nor a tame version of erotica; rather, AcCLAIM by Jean Thesquare is the tale of two wealthy successful friends, offspring of multi-millionaire families, who’ve forged a partnership in work—and in self-respect. Wronged by businessman Dorian Wolker, Beatrix with friend Manon plot revenge, with readers who will applaud Wolker’s public humiliation. Staccato prose and dialogue keep interest high.
Douglas Bell's CAKE WALK may be ascribed as an LGBTQIA+ novel, but its content regarding the treatment of Black lives in an ostensibly White community is arguably the focus. The writer awakens the reader to a myriad of issues with a crisp use of their current and correct terminology. Whilst many would consider this a modern text, these layers of humanity exist in perpetuity: race, gender, sexuality, love, societal aspiration. This novel therefore reads as a modern-day tale from Greek mythology with realistic and contemporary repercussions.
Reading about Sami and Aiden in 53 DAYS TO FALL IN LOVE feels like watching two people desperately try to catch their breath while the world keeps spinning. It captures that specific, heavy exhaustion of trying to fix your life when your body or your career just won't cooperate. There’s something incredibly real about how they lean on each other, not in a fairy-tale way, but in a "life is hard and I’m glad you’re here" kind of way. Jamie Benin makes it a grounded story that stays with you because it feels like it could happen to any of us.
A heartbreaking, often shocking memoir of intergenerational trauma from a child of Holocaust survivors. Mitchell Raff’s means of coping with the horrific childhood he endured was to escape into a lifetime of toxic relationships and substance abuse. In LITTLE BOY, I KNOW YOUR NAME, Raff shows how even the deepest of wounds can be treated and that there are ways to step out of the darkest shadows.
True to her positionality and sensibilities as a therapist, Margot Eaton weaves words of wisdom and strength together in a moving tale that is poetic as well as uplifting for readers of all age groups. THE WARRIOR AND THE STAR offers simple, direct and motivating words within its concise exploration of finding purpose and direction in the brutal aftermath of loss and death. Readers will enjoy this unique tale, seamlessly blending the lore of forest spirits, deceiving shapeshifting creatures, and sagacious animals that guide lost human souls in times of distress and loneliness—making it a delightful and heartwarming read.
INSTABILITY IN ISOLATED BODIES is a beautifully paced, lyrical novella set in Mississippi in 1974. Meredith Johnson uses metaphors of illness and astrophysics to explore the spaces between people in this character driven slice of fine Southern Gothic. A smooth, easy read, but one that will linger long in the memory.
Lost out in the wilderness, Wick Shepperd stumbles upon a Cherokee “signal tree” which sends him back to the 1800s. Wick’s past, present and future are soon to collide in this time-travelling yarn taking in indigenous cultural heritage, family history, and bio-tech driven land grabs. Mike E. Hughes's THE SIGNAL TREE is fast paced, full of surprises, and lots of fun for fans of time-twisting historical fiction.
Thank you to the 2027 IndieReader Discovery Awards Sponsors!
