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The Top Speculative Fiction Books and Series – An Extremely Subjective List By Lynne Cantwell

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It all started when I saw one too many iterations of the BBC’s top 100 books on Facebook. These lists are always heavily weighted with hoary old tomes written by dead white guys. Plus the BBC always leans on British authors (as well they should, since they’re based in London, but still). But my biggest issue with these lists is that they never include enough speculative fiction entries. I’m defining speculative fiction as science fiction, fantasy, horror, and any combination, including all subgenres, thereof.

Anyway, I saw that list and I snapped. I have a lot of well-read friends who read speculative fiction all the time. And I was certain that if I asked around, I could come up with a list of 100 speculative fiction novels – and not only that, but our list would be a whole lot more interesting and fun than anything the BBC could put together.

So I took nominations and posted the list on Facebook. That drew more nominations, so I added them and posted it again – which drew more nominations. We ended up with 147 entries for our list of top 100 speculative fiction novels. (That reminded me of the marketing hook for Douglas Adams’s So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish: “the fourth book in the trilogy!” That trilogy was The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, which of course is on our list.)

The list actually includes way more than 147 books, because I insisted on each series being one listing or else we’d have gotten to 100 too fast. (For example, if you count each of the 41 Discworld novels separately, you’re nearly halfway to 100 already.)

Of course, when I posted my final-final list on my blog, I received even more nominations from my friends. But I’m sticking with this iteration for now. Happy reading!

Top 147 Speculative Fiction Novels, in no particular order (according to Lynne & Friends) [Read more…] about The Top Speculative Fiction Books and Series – An Extremely Subjective List By Lynne Cantwell

Ernesto Joked by Hazel Pacheco

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Ernesto Joked by Hazel Pacheco

Unlock your imagination, venture to a land of enchantment, and hobnob with the gregarious quails of the Southwest!

In this nail-biting episode, Ernesto’s talent for making others laugh is put to the ultimate test. When a cantankerous coyote invades the bosque and threatens the quails, it’s no time for jokes—or is it? Coyote demands a funny story . . . or else. With his whole covey counting on him, will Ernesto think of a story funny enough to make Coyote howl with laughter?

If you enjoyed the Southwest flavor of The Three Little Javelinas, by Susan Lowell, or the optimism of Knight Owl by Christopher Denise, then you are sure to love Ernesto Joked. This read-aloud, read-to-your-child book will capture the hearts of children ages 4+ and might even capture the notice of some adult kids as well.

Beautifully illustrated, Ernesto Joked presents a humorous vocabulary-building tale that celebrates friendship and bravery while delivering a subtle faith inspired message that encourages courage in spite of fear.

Bonus glossary and activity page included!

This is book four of the four-book Henry and Friends series.

Gloria Smiled by Hazel Pacheco

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Gloria Smiled by Hazel Pacheco

Unlock your imagination, venture to a land of enchantment, and hobnob with the gregarious quails of the Southwest!

In this jaw-dropping episode, Gloria is determined to celebrate, but a mysterious sorpresa in the clearing threatens to ruin her plans. With optimism and determination, Gloria sets out to save the day, but will she be able to overcome the odds? Join Gloria as she travels through the woodland known as the bosque (boss-kee) to uncover the secret of the sorpresa.

If you enjoyed the perseverance in The Most Magnificent Thing, by Ashley Spires and the birthday bustle in Bear Can’t Wait by Karma Wilson, then you will love Gloria Smiled. This read-aloud, read-to-your-child book is sure to capture the hearts of children ages 4+ and might even gain the notice of some adult kids as well.

Beautifully illustrated with Kim Sponaugle’s vibrant watercolors, Gloria Smiled increases vocabulary, while delivering a subtle faith-inspired message about selflessness and resilience.

Bonus glossary and activity page included!

This book three of the four-book Henry and Friends series.

Featured Book: Bright Eternity: a novel by Daniel Zeigler

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About Featured Book: Bright Eternity: a novel by Daniel Zeigler

How much would you give if you could cheat death?

NewEden Life Sciences promises that its scientific breakthroughs add decades to clients’ lifespans. And their team is relentlessly pursuing an even bigger goal—redesigning the human species to conquer death forever. Graduates from the NewEden program are ecstatic, but families worry about changes they see in their loved ones.

Is NewEden’s hype hiding a darker agenda? Enter Carmen Norrell, a gutsy photojournalist who decides to infiltrate the program and uncover its secrets. Carmen has never backed down from a challenge, but will the company’s charismatic leaders present a different kind of danger than she’s faced before?

Fans of Christian sci-fi classics such as CS Lewis’s Space Trilogy will enjoy Bright Eternity. Funny, frightening, and thought provoking, Bright Eternity will keep you turning pages until its riveting conclusion.

This Christian Fiction book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

Imperial Prince: Heir Apparent by Cathy Smith

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In “Imperial Prince: Heir Apparent,” a young boy’s life is transformed when he and his mother embark on a journey to imperial space to receive medical treatment. However, their visit takes an unexpected turn when they discover that the boy’s grandfather has become the ruling Emperor of the galaxy, and desires an heir to secure his legacy. In an instant, the boy finds himself thrust into a world of political intrigue, danger, and adventure as the heir apparent to the throne. With the help of his mother and a team of loyal supporters, he must navigate treacherous power struggles, fight for his place in the imperial court, and come to terms with the enormity of his new role. Will he rise to the challenge and become the leader his grandfather envisions? Find out in this epic space opera adventure!

Targeted Age Group:: 15-60

What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
I love of space operas and wanted to write my own.

Featured Book: A Fool’s Errand by D.E. King

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About Featured Book: A Fool’s Errand by D.E. King

On Sale for only 99c until Xmas 2023.
Lani stumbles into a world of secrets & assassins when she comes into possession of a valuable amulet. As much as she’d love to give it away fate forces her hand, taking her on a journey far from all she has ever known. A secret society of Jesters, an 800-year-old secret, & enemies around every corner, Lani must protect the amulet at all costs.

This Fantasy book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

Buy Book Here.

Featured Book: Tsar Nicolai Pegasus III Adventures by Helge Thorsen

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About Featured Book: Tsar Nicolai Pegasus III Adventures by Helge Thorsen

At Madso Farm, situated on a small island named Madsoya, in a small country called Norway, we get to know all the animals that live there. In this story, we are introduced to Tsar Pegasus, a horse foal also known as Tsar, and his mother Nikita. We also meet Oypjokka, a cold-blooded trotter. The toddler on the farm had a big heart for Tsar and would do everything she could to protect him.

In this story, we are introduced to all the animals that live on the farm. Additionally, we get to meet the human family comprising Helge, Lene, Ole, Jon Martin, Kristine, Marie, and Venke.

It may seem strange, but animals can communicate with humans in this story. This was a reality a long time ago. All the animals in the story are real, and they all live on the farm, which is also a real farm. Tsar Pegasus, for instance, was born on a beautiful summer day long ago. He was the offspring of a black Arabian stallion and Nikita, a grey-skinned Welsh Cob mare.

This Children’s Book book is available in these Formats: eBook

Buy Book Here.

Featured Book: Moonlight Whiskers: The Enchanting Tale of Andy, The Magical Black Cat by Miranda Rose Barker

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About Featured Book: Moonlight Whiskers: The Enchanting Tale of Andy, The Magical Black Cat by Miranda Rose Barker

Step into the magical world of Moonlight Hollow in this enchanting prequel to the bestselling Witches of Moonlight Hollow series! ‘Moonlight Whiskers: The Enchanting Tale of Andy, The Magical Black Cat’ invites you on an unforgettable journey that will leave you spellbound.

Before he was Eleanor the Witch’s psychic confidant and Moonlight Hollow’s most mysterious feline, Andy was just a curious black kitten with unexplained powers. At first it wasn’t clear to him how he would fit into the world in which he found himself.

So how did he become the cat with mystical abilities we know and adore?

Explore the mystical origins of Andy as he embarks on a quest to discover the truth behind his enigmatic powers. Venturing far beyond the comforts of home, Andy encounters whimsical characters, dark enchantments, and untold perils.

He realizes that his destiny is not just to be a pet, but a guardian of magical secrets, setting the stage for the beloved series.

Will Andy uncover the answers he seeks? Can he harness his powers in time to become the magical black cat he’s destined to be?

Prepare to be charmed, intrigued, and whisked away into a captivating world of magic, mystery, and feline wonder. Andy’s tale is a must-read for fans of the Witches of Moonlight Hollow series, and an enchanting starting point for new readers.

Don’t miss out on this bewitching adventure, Moonlight Whiskers: The Enchanting Tale of Andy, The Magical Black Cat – A Witches of Moonlight Hollow Story!

This YA book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

Within and Without Time: (Christian Mystery Thriller) by D. I. Hennessey

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Within and Without Time: (Christian Mystery Thriller) by D. I. Hennessey

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “AN EMOTIONAL AND STIRRING READ…”

A boy is caught up in a miraculous adventure that transforms his life and changes the world! – A Powerful book!

When a sixteen-year-old boy is suddenly caught up in a series of miraculous encounters, it heralds the start of a profound journey. For Jimmy Moretti it is the beginning of an adventure that will forever transform his life, rock his town, and trigger events that will ultimately change the world!

Befriended by a powerful angelic warrior, Jimmy finds himself in the center of God’s plan for Earth’s final Great Revival. The beginning of God’s amazing harvest at the End of the Age. Like an intense roller coaster, the journey he experiences is exciting and unpredictable. Heartwarming, as well as heart-rending. God prepares him for a mission more extraordinary than anything he could have imagined, placing him in the rare company of ancient prophets and apostles alike.

WITHIN & WITHOUT TIME, melds powerful Biblical truths with an imaginative and engaging story that envelopes the reader in an intense range of human experiences. Be prepared to laugh and cry, to be inspired, and find your heart rejoicing as Jimmy experiences the most profound truths of God’s immense power and immeasurable love.

The Epsilon Account by Joni Parker

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The Epsilon Account by Joni Parker

Thousands of years ago, Eledon was created for the Elves by their Mentors when they were forced to leave Earth. At least, that’s how the legend goes. In return, the Elves must pay them a tribute in gold, known as the Golden Harvest, every four thousand years. The Elfin Council of Elders appoints Lady Alexin (Alex) Dumwalt, the Keeper of the Keys, to manage the next payment, due 244 years from now. That is, until the Mentors show up unexpectedly and demand immediate payment of the Epsilon Account. Since the Harvest has never been called that, Alex suspects foul play and uncovers a sinister plot by the Star Elves, a rival clan from the Constellations, who want to steal the gold. To make matters worse, they’re willing to do anything to succeed to include murder. Can Alex stop them and save the Elfin gold before it’s too late?

Featured Book: Tales of the Ravensdaughter: Collection One by Erin Hunt Rado

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About Featured Book: Tales of the Ravensdaughter: Collection One by Erin Hunt Rado

When Alerice Linden dies at the beginning of a story… you’re in for something good.

But for Alerice, death is just the beginning. After being stabbed, she wakes in the Evherealme, only to learn that she is a Realme Walker, a mortal who can traverse the world below and the world above.

After pledging herself to the Raven Queen, Alerice embarks on a series of adventures. Assisting her is Oddwyn, the Realme’s wonderfully witty gender-fluid herald, and Kreston Dühalde, a former brigade captain with a tragic past.

In her journey of discovery Alerice exposes a two-faced Beast in the town of Basque, stops a Thief from Stealing Souls, forces a Wizard and Wyld Mercenaries to come to terms, prevents Rips in the Ether from destabilizing the Realme, challenges the King of Shadows to play the Game her way, and finally realizes her true potential as the Raven Queen’s official Daughter.

This Fantasy book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

Firefax by Amelia Vergara

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The dysfunctional family dynamics of “The Umbrella Academy” meets the adventure and intrigue of “Treasure Island” as the secret fortune of a family of assassins becomes the target of two competing spy networks in the American Revolution.

“I would advise you, young man, to take care around anyone with the surname Firefax. I know not if the rumors be true that they be king killers, but they are, without any doubt, a dangerous family.”

Legend tells of a city of gold on a phantom island. The wealth of that city could end the American Revolution. But the only person who knows the island’s location is the world’s deadliest assassin. And he’s not giving up that secret without a fight . . .

What reviewers are saying:

“‘National Treasure’ meets ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl’ . . . Firefax is a fast-paced historical treasure hunt where all bets seem to be off.” ~ Reedsy Discovery

“This book is a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises and I couldn’t get enough of it.” ~ Netgalley reviewer

“An exhilarating historical thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.” ~ Netgalley reviewer

Targeted Age Group:: 18+

What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
I first wrote this book as I was nearing the end of high school, and dealing with some difficult things, especially with my diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, a life-altering, life-long illness. It then sat in a drawer for many years. During the delta wave of COVID-19, while I was working in the hospital as a physician assistant, watching people die alone while I tried desperately to save them, I took this book out and started rewriting it. I needed to write this work of dark fiction as an escape from the real darkness that I was drowning in.

Utopia Falling: A Darkness Rises by R.C. Vielee

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“… an extremely enjoyable read.” – Amazon Review
The Great Destruction brought Earth to its knees. As centuries passed, humanity had grown into the near-utopian realm of Tartica. Yet, utopia once created, cannot long endure the onslaught of human nature. Benevolent leaders guiding Tartica’s ideal society succumb to dark ambitions and assassins from a parallel dimension—a brutal world condemned to exist forever in darkness—arrive, and everything is driven towards chaos.
Utopia Falling: A Darkness Rises begins the dark epic fantasy trilogy, The Utopia Falling Saga.
Goodreads Review – “Overall, the story is great and I’ll be waiting for the next in the series to come out.”

Targeted Age Group:: 18+

What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
As an avid reader or all things scifi/fantasy, somewhere along the way I got the notion to weave a story that I'd want to read. Writers that inspired me include Joe Abercrombie, Mark Lawrence, and Stephen R. Donaldson to name a few. The more I read over the years, I found myself attracted to stories that explored the darker side of human nature while leaving just enough room for hope.

Featured Book: The Seduction of Emy and Other Stories by A. R. Gregory

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About Featured Book: The Seduction of Emy and Other Stories by A. R. Gregory

35 crisp, literary short stories, packed with human drama, quirky sex, nutty religion, and lots of not-gonna-take-it-anymore women, both human and otherwise. See the author’s website, ARGregory.com, for some sample reading, and “The Seduction of Emy” trailer on YouTube.

This Fiction book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

The Finery by Rachel Grosvenor

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Tyranny is in the air in the city of Finer Bay, and Professor Wendowleen Cripcot would like to be left alone, thank you very much. The memories of the last one hundred years are quite enough to be getting on with, if only these young upstarts from the government body, The Finery, would stop trying to control her every move. With the eyes of a dictator upon her, there are not many places to hide…but Wendowleen has never been one to back down from a fight (just ask her pet wolf), and insurrection is brewing underground.

“The elderly heroine and her wolf make a refreshing change in this whimsical, gently satirical fantasy debut about how easily a police state might evolve.” – Lisa Tuttle, The Guardian

“With wry humour and vicious imagination, Grosvenor’s debut compels us not to allow her nightmarish fantasy of a totalitarian police state to become reality.” – Joe Bedford, Author of ‘A Bad Decade for Good People’, Parthian Books

“Wry wit and boundless imagination.” – Waterstones

“The story is, despite the dark undertones and authoritarian themes, an entertaining read. Those looking for a dystopian tale that won’t leave you depressed at the end, look no further!” Dean Cook, Waterstones

Featured in The Guardian’s best recent sci-fi, fantasy and horror round-up!

Targeted Age Group:: Adult

What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
The process of writing The Finery was created in a strange time for the world. It was
the start of the pandemic, and while I had already written and developed the idea of
Wendowleen and Wolf, The Finery came together as a whole during that period. So, much of what I was writing was inspired by my imagination, and it was often challenging to bring levity to the page. However, it was also a medicine, and building a fantastical world to step into was definitely something that got me through lockdown.

Featured Book: The Witch’s Apprentice: A Witches of Moonlight Hollow Cozy Mystery by Miranda Rose Barker

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About Featured Book: The Witch’s Apprentice: A Witches of Moonlight Hollow Cozy Mystery by Miranda Rose Barker

A Story of Sorcery, Mischief, and Mayhem: The Witch’s Apprentice

The Witches of Moonlight Hollow Book 1

In the town of Moonlight Hollow, where the mystical and mundane intertwine, a new story of magic, intrigue, and mystery unfolds.

Now settled in Moonlight Hollow with her faithful (and quirky) cat, Andy, Eleanor’s life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Lucy, a young aspiring witch. Happy to share her wisdom and expertise, Eleanor takes Lucy under her wing, and they embark on a relentless quest to master the arcane arts of witchcraft.

But then, as they were making progress, strange things started to happen.

And in the blink of an eye, events spiral out of control, leaving Eleanor and Lucy trying to solve a crime and fighting a sinister and evil force.

Now they’re looking frenetically for ways to solve the mystery.

But time is running out.

Author Miranda Rose Barker takes us on a gripping occult cozy mystery filled with surprises and closely guarded secrets. As Eleanor and Lucy’s fate hangs in the balance, the line between sorcery and reality blurs, testing their abilities and resolve in the face of an impending peril.

Will their combined powers be enough to overcome the unforeseen challenges?

This Occult Fantasy Cozy Mystery book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

Light’s Awakening by Michelle Murphy

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Light’s Awakening by Michelle Murphy

A letter from a stranger shattered my grasp on reality.

Abandoned by my family and trapped beneath a curse, I thought I was destined to a life of movie nights with my plants. When I inherited my grandmother’s shop I discovered a world of mythical creatures, magical potions, and pleasure I didn’t know was possible. I’m not who I thought I was, and a new hope is blooming inside me.

But someone murdered my grandmother to steal her powers and now they’re after me. Now that I know who I am I’ll fight for my new life ‘til the bitter end.

Can I sort through the past to stop the murderer before they finish the job?

The Alacore’s Apothecary series is perfect for lovers of urban fantasy with a dash of spice and a side of mystery.

Do You Believe in Magic? by Jim Melvin

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Do You Believe in Magic? by Jim Melvin

“Transcends fiction and fantasy by exploring the struggles of those coming of age.” —Chris Worthy, Upstate Parent magazine

~~~

From the author of “The Death Wizard Chronicles” comes a new adventure suitable for teens and adults.

“Do You Believe in Magic?” is book 1 of “Dark Circles,” a fantasy series for readers 13 and older. This is a great coming of age series for fans of J.K. Rowling, Neil Gaiman, and Brandon Sanderson.

After discovering a magical waterfall deep in the forest, a boy and his dog embark on an epic adventure in a fantastical world filled with monsters and magic.

In the real world, Charlie is a 13-year-old nerd picked on by bullies. But in the fantasy world, he becomes a wizard wielding formidable powers.

Standing in his way is a vile monster bent on destruction.

Only those with a hero’s heart will have the courage to stand at Charlie’s side when the war begins.

~~~

“Be prepared for a full-blown launch into a fantasy realm loaded with magic, monsters, courageous acts, and a dash of sweet romance.” —Chris Harold Stevenson, award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal tales

“If the first book of this new series is any indication, you are in for a big treat and wild fantasy ride.” —Dave Scheiber, nationally renowned journalist and author

“Melvin shows his literary mastery as he weaves elements of potential and transformation.” —Ann Allen, The Charlotte Observer

Featured Book: Eva by Diane Solomon

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About Featured Book: Eva: a riveting romantic suspense with a supernatural twist by Diane Solomon

Limited time, new release price: only $2.99!

Eva discovers she has a powerful, magical gift. But it might be a curse. When her secret gets out, the media jackals hound her and she’s forced into the limelight she’s avoided all her life. The internet lights up with wonder… and accusation.
And someone wants her dead.

This Fiction book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

Featured Book: Tales of Witches and Wyverns by S. Ramsey

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About Featured Book: Tales of Witches and Wyverns by S. Ramsey

It’s been nine years since the shy new kid, Dylan, appeared at the school bus stop and put an end to Enid’s torment. Ever since then, she’s had twisted nightmares that her best friend and growing love interest would pay the price for getting involved with someone like her. Someone different.

On Enid’s sixteenth birthday, those fears have come to fruition.

Journey with Enid as she travels to the fae realm to save her kidnapped friend and stop the Unseelie Queen Malagant’s quest to conquer both the fae and human worlds. The human world stands frozen in time until Dylan returns, and failure is not an option.

The world of the fae is fraught with danger: there are rules one must not bend, deceptions one must not fall for, and creatures one must not cross if one is to survive. An impossible task for most humans, Enid quickly finds herself in circumstances where being different is not so bad after all. Armed by the immortal Merlin with the relics of King Arthur’s knights and a trace of the magic she never knew she had, Enid will reach the mountains of the Gwyllion and bring Dylan home or die trying.

Will Enid rescue Dylan and stop evil from taking over both realms? Or will she fail and watch helplessly as a shadow descends over everything and everyone she loves?

Read Tales of Witches and Wyverns and follow Enid as she discovers just how advantageous being different can be.

This YA book is available in these Formats: eBook, Print

This book is in Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Book Here.

Niergel Chronicles – Last Hope by D. I. Hennessey

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Niergel Chronicles – Last Hope by D. I. Hennessey

*Christian Fiction*

An ancient mystery…
A skeptical genius…
Powerful evil ancestors…
A dangerous underworld Crime Syndicate…
A horde of disembodied offspring of fallen angels who threaten the entire world!

Niergel Chronicles – Last Hope is a journey of discovery, danger, and extraordinary mysteries. It follows the fantastic adventure of a young man with a surprising heritage as he uncovers the astonishing truth about his family history and the earth’s past. He finds himself facing dangerous perils and shocking supernatural threats. All while contending with unsettling truths that upend his understanding of science and the world, forcing him to face the reality of a Creator whose existence he has adamantly denied.

While following the evidence all around him, Jeff’s most profound discovery is the one he least expects — the proof of God’s creative hand.