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!
THE TREASURE OF CAPRIC by Brandon M Wilborn begins with a novice monk named Kurian, bored with his training, disillusioned with his dark and dried-up world (literally—the sun is hidden behind clouds and the river has ceased to flow), unaware that the treasure that his order is sworn to guard has been stolen. When his order is attacked and the theft discovered, Kurian and his two closest friends embark on the journey of a lifetime, and might end up finding the truest treasure of all. Wilborn has done a fine job of worldbuilding here; the sense of darkness and despair permeating the world is nearly tangible. Kurian is a well-drawn and interesting character, and his growth over the course of the book will earn readers’ sympathies. The Christian (and specifically Protestant) subtext gets much more visible as the story goes on, but it’s artistically done, if sometimes a bit preachy. The ending does feel (literally) like a deus ex machina, a bit too easily achieved after all the buildup of the rest of the story, but at least it’s a joyful and invigorating resolution with enough potential left for more story to come.
Honesty and poetic focus on nature and memory characterize Timothy Colburn's CANCER IN THE TIME OF COVID AND OTHER REMARKABLE MOMENTS, which muses on sickness, aging, and survival. Colburn combines introspective thoughts on family, geography, and time with emotional anguish in his personal essays. Those who enjoy reflective, uplifting stories will identify with the memoir's reflective tone.
SOLDIER OF EMPIRE's strengths lie in its worldbuilding, from its hard sci-fi scenes to a whole new world populated with Spider Riders and miners. Readers coming into the series late may take a bit to catch on, but the central characters (especially Teo and Sebastian) are easy to get to know. Beyond sci-fi readers, fans of political intrigue and classic sword-and-sandal fantasy will enjoy this one by S A Melia.
Christopher Tobin's T081 PUZZLE BOOK is a refreshing new take on the puzzle. Combining elements of the crossword and Sudoku-style games, and beautifully presented and designed, the T081 provides an intriguing and attention-absorbing challenge for novice puzzlers and dyed-in-the-wool players alike.
Tara Sue Me's MADAME PRESIDENT is a refined, emotionally charged romance set against a high-stakes political backdrop. The novel delves into power, ambition, and unresolved love with truth and passion, using Anna Fitzpatrick's strength and fragility. Readers who appreciate intelligent women and second-chance romance will find a lot to admire.
THE SECRET CHILD by David Thomas Kay is a rich historical novel about family secrets and the quiet ways the past refuses to stay buried. As the story moves through generations, long-hidden truths slowly emerge, especially the revelation that Paul and Pali are half-brothers, tied together through the complicated history of Gerard Crosthwaite and Annie’s secret. The novel stands out for how naturally these discoveries unfold alongside glimpses of earlier lives, from harsh mining communities to moments that feel almost dreamlike or mythical. It’s an absorbing, character-driven story that lingers because of how thoughtfully it explores identity and the weight of hidden history.
BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO GROWING WEALTH AND INVESTING: Planting Seeds & Growing Riches by Dr. Stacker is a personal finance book that focuses on simple and effective investing habits for everyday people. Accessible, detailed, and practical, the book aims not only to offer advice but also to teach readers how to take control of their financial affairs. It serves as a helpful introductory guide for anyone beginning their journey toward financial independence and long-term success.
Narrative vignettes within THE BLUEBERRY SOCIETY: A Schoolyard Novella, Misguided Short Stories, and Other Ramblings by Zeebo come together in a witty, nostalgic, and charming way. Over a fifty-year span, the author shares life’s lessons with amusing anecdotes and possible “laugh out loud” moments. Readers can peruse these tidbits in short (or longer) sessions, making THE BLUEBERRY SOCIETY an easy bedtime read.
TEARS OF THE FLAMES is a breathtaking journey that feels both grand in its worldbuilding and deeply intimate in its emotional stakes. Sisi Zhao brings together a story where the weight of duty and the heat of survival are palpable, making you feel every flicker of the Mira's internal struggle. It is a beautiful exploration of resilience that lingers in your chest long after the final page is turned. This fantasy book is a soul-stirring reminder of what it costs to protect what you love.
TIA BLU'S FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL by D.S. Kaye tackles new school jitters in an inventive way, with the new student Tia discovering her bravery through a library book. The artwork's muted tones and facial feature choices gave off dark story vibes, but the overall message was uplifting and full of promise. It empowers children to embrace who they are, inside and out, and to find their voice.
Blending personal story with contemplations on psychology and healing, BEING BROKEN: Tales and Essays of Survival and Death from Narcissistic Parental Abuse by Geoffrey R. Jonas is an uncompromising examination of generational trauma, addiction, and recovery. Jonas amplifies the experiences of those who have overcome the challenges of overcoming narcissistic parental abuse through his insightful analysis and honest narration.
Larry Forcey’s RECONNAISSANCE (Diamonds Through Waterloo Book 3) blends historical detail, baseball culture, and the looming shadow of World War I into an engaging coming-of-age narrative. Through William’s journey from Harvard athletics to deeper moral and historical questions, Forcey crafts a thoughtful story about ambition, friendship, and identity. The novel will especially appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction grounded in real events.
Author Frank S Joseph does Chicago right in capturing the chaos of 1965. TO DO JUSTICE, the final novel in the Chicago Trilogy, centers on Pinkie, a biracial orphan, and her relationship with rookie reporter Mollie. Their search for Pinkie's parentage is combined with real history, from Richard Speck’s murders to the actual workings of the City News Bureau and the Chicago City Council, making it the perfect novel for those wanting a strongly researched yet deeply human look at this particular moment in history.
A high-octane thriller set in New Orleans, TWO BULLETS IN A BAYOU by Bill Black combines political controversy, high-stakes crime, and judicial intrigue. Fans of intelligent, character-driven thrillers with a vivid setting will adore this book for its witty banter, intricate planning, and the irresistible Erica Banks. This episode in the Erica Banks series is riveting due to Black's assured writing and the increasing tension.
THE WITCHES OF SERNA by Morgan Spring-Glace is the kind of fantasy that slowly pulls you into a very detailed world and then keeps expanding it. Set around the town of Serna, the story follows political tensions, looming war in the mountains, and the dangerous discovery that some people can wield real magic in a society that usually burns witches rather than protects them. The book stands out for how layered its worldbuilding is: different races, religions, armies, and political powers all moving toward the coming war. It feels like the start of a much bigger saga, with enough intrigue, battles, and moral conflict to keep fantasy readers invested. It is perfect for fans of epic fantasy like A Song of Ice and Fire who enjoy complex worlds and multiple perspectives.
Tara Sue Me pulls readers into a world as seductive as its main character in this scintillating drama. HER LAST HELLO offers an intimate look inside the mind of an otherwise ordinary girl trapped in a life never meant for her. For readers craving a personal, slightly steamy thrill ride, this book is impossible to put down.
ASH AND TIDE (Elementally Woven Book 1) by J.M.McGregor is a romantasy family drama that will keep readers eager for the next twist! Rich worldbuilding and real character stakes keep the story brisk, letting the narrative's novel emotional core remain strong. Romantasy fans will find much to love here.
In Hwee Peng Tan's promising first novel, WHAT THE DEAD LEARNED, the zombie apocalypse is reimagined by throwing away tired tropes and delivering something more humane, and is better for it. By centering the neurodiverse as not sidekicks or comic relief, but as essential to the world's survival, Tan gives us a short novel of striking power. A timely story that shows the post-apocalyptic genre still has something unique and important to say.
Through a complex depiction of a woman facing the subtle discontent in her meticulously planned existence, J.T. Tierney's SEEN AT LAST deftly probes midlife identity, desire, and emotional awakening. Readers interested in contemplative contemporary fiction on love, self-discovery, and second chances will adore the book for its insightful psychological analysis and close character development.
Antonieta Contreras's HOW DEEP IS THE WOUND?: A Guide to Investigating, Understanding, and Resolving Your Emotional Pain provides readers with a thoughtful and empowered framework for discriminating between everyday emotional pain and severe trauma, presenting sophisticated psychological principles in straightforward, compassionate language. With practical activities and an emphasis on resilience, agency, and self-awareness, this guide is especially useful for readers looking for clarity about their emotional experiences and a balanced road to healing.
J.J. Alo's MISERY PLAZA mixes gritty frontier life with otherworldly mystery to create a spooky introduction to a larger horror story. Alo's imaginative worldbuilding and cinematic action draw readers into a terrifying vision of the American West. Readers who enjoy historical horror and dark Westerns will find plenty to like here.
In her grand science-fiction novel ENTROPY, Dana Hayward paints a picture of humanity's bleak future that incorporates political unrest, environmental catastrophe, and space travel. This book is perfect for fans of cerebral, concept-driven speculative fiction due to its ambitious concepts about life beyond Earth and its detailed world-building.
In THREAD TRAVELLER by Annabel Youens—reminiscent of the musical Brigadoon—August Monk is whisked away from her family’s U.K. visit to Faversham-in-the-past, where she meets leader Margaret Wise in a village ruled by the misogynistic Divine Sphere. Inducted into the Thread Carers group, August eventually focuses on the present, introducing Faversham-ites to hops and beer and some gaiety. Book 2 promises to continue the juxtaposition of fantasy and reality.
The ambitious and innovative BEHIND THE WALL by Aivars Fecit delves into themes of identity, power, and fate via the use of myth, folklore, and speculative storytelling. The unique voice, deep symbolism, and lyrical language of this philosophical fantasy story call out to adventurous readers who enjoy this type of literature.
Michael Zummo's WEUN ACADEMY: The Shadow Maker is a fast-paced science fiction story about perseverance, identity, and belonging that takes place across a wide interplanetary setting. Readers who enjoy cosmic adventure and stories set in schools will love the book's creative worldbuilding and high-stakes action.
By fusing a noir sensibility with outstanding character work, Melanie Anagnos's NIGHTSWIMMING (A Jamie Palmieri Mystery) creates a deeply evocative mystery set in 1970s Paterson. Fans of character-driven crime fiction will be captivated by Anagnos's creation of a vivid environment and meaningful suspense through Jamie Palmieri's investigation of a double homicide.
In DOMINION: Ascension, D. A. Murray brings to life a dystopian near-future in which men form an underclass and women rule the world. Weaving together elements including a totalitarian state and a forbidden love story, and benefiting from an impressive imaginative arc, Murray takes his cues from Atwood’s The Handmaid's Tale in this interesting evocation of a post-apocalyptic society organized along strict gender boundaries.
In her unputdownable and captivating memoir, Elizabeth “Betsy” Aden shares her extraordinary journey—from being a 1970s cultural anthropology student, “Safari Barbie," studying remote islanders in Melanesia, to holding a senior executive position at one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies, a fascinating journey filled with setbacks and diversions.
Fiercely intelligent, Aden unfolds her remarkable story with unflinching candor and a sharp sense of humor, providing honest and unique insights throughout. Flawlessly written and including a well-curated selection of photographs, MUD, MICROBES, & MEDICINE is a hugely inspiring, interesting, and addictive read from a highly impressive individual.
Thank you to the 2027 IndieReader Discovery Awards Sponsors!
