Weather Report, May 28

(Illustration from Vekteezy.)

UPCOMING ON SNOWFLAKES IN A BLIZZARD, MAY 28-JUNE 3

“MORAL CODE,” BY LOIS MELBOURNE WITH ROSS MELBOURNE.

Writes Lois: “Moral Code is science fiction with believable and possible tech, but I wrote it to be accessible for non-techies too. I’m both an optimist and a realist. I couldn’t settle for a dystopian future. We need to use and develop technology to improve our lives, not destroy them. Several types of readers will enjoy the book. A reader curious about AI and its development possibilities, a reader that enjoys strong women determined to make a difference in the world, or someone that wants a bit of a thrill without spies or a murder.”

“TOGETHER IN A BROKEN WORLD,” BY PAUL MICHAEL WINTERS

Together in a Broken World is a YA queer post-apocalyptic romance adventure featuring two boys both trying to survive in a world destroyed by a disease that has killed most of the world’s population. It features themes of overcoming loneliness, isolation, and trauma, all wrapped in a love story.

Zach (17) is the sole survivor of a mountain town, relying on his wits and ingenuity to stay alive. He longs to return to his family in Seattle, but his fears hold him captive. Aiden (18) is on a critical mission for the Scientific Collective, delivering vials that could cure the disease.

The boys escape together and soon form a bond as they comfort each other in this desolate and broken world. The farther they travel, the more their affection grows, as do the forces pulling them apart.

“JOURNEYS WITHIN,” BY DON TASSONE.

Journeys Within features an eclectic mix of 30 new short stories. Unexpected events prompt the characters in many of these stories to take a fresh look at their lives and their choices. What they discover sets them on a new path.

A violin virtuoso whose life has been saved by music is called to share his gift with those caught in a civil war. A chance meeting of a retired woman and a young man, both feeling lost, leads them to re-examine their purpose. Nearly killed in a plane crash, a lifelong bully finds himself at the mercy of others.

Some of these stories touch on current issues and events. All are stories for our times.