New Books Blur Reality: Alien Giants, Sea Monsters, and Cosmic Calls

This month's new science fiction and fantasy novels promise thrilling escapes. From a mysterious alien arrival to ancient oceanic pacts, these stories explore unknown frontiers. In *Godfall*, a three-mile-long alien figure lands in rural Nebraska. Sheriff David Blunt must keep order as scientists, soldiers, and enthusiasts flood his town. When a serial killer begins murdering people in brutal ways, the FBI tries to take over. But Blunt continues his own investigation after a lifelong friend becomes a victim. His search leads him into a dangerous doomsday cult and closer to the giant alien mystery. This debut novel from comic-book writer Van Jensen blends science fiction with a suspenseful crime thriller. *The Salt Bind* is a folkloric fantasy set in 1770s Cornwall. Kensa, the daughter of an executed smuggler, feels like an outsider. Her life changes when the local wise woman, Isolde, takes her on as an apprentice. Kensa learns that these women uphold an ancient pact with creatures of the sea. When forced to act alone, she accidentally summons the Father of Storms and makes a terrible bargain. Now, she must fix her mistake or watch the sea drown her entire community. Rebecca Ferrier's novel is a moving story about sisterhood and belonging. Other notable releases include *The Poet Empress* by Shen Tao, *A Hole in the Sky* by Peter F. Hamilton, and *Hello Earth, Are You There?* by Brian Aldiss.