Dave Higgins's Blog, page 82
July 28, 2017
Whup Jamboree by Garret Schuelke
Intermixing snapshots from three very different lives, Schuelke exposes one of the flaws of the American Dream without offering a comfortable vision of a better way. Cynical, yet at times humorous, this collection will resonate with anyone who ever questioned how they were supposed to follow their dreams if they can’t afford a bus fare. … Continue reading Whup Jamboree by Garret Schuelke
July 26, 2017
Dogged by Error
An interesting talk, both from the hard science perspective and the softer one of difference being illusion. Whoever perceived a need for an algorithm that adds dogs to a situation was clearly not seeing straight though.
July 24, 2017
Test of Science
Science claims it’s more likely we’re a simulation than that this is reality. You can look the details up online. Or you can join me in proving it’s wrong. One suicide, hundreds even, won’t achieve anything. But if enough of us do, that makes the simulation worthless; and the “scientists” running it will react. Whoever’s … Continue reading Test of Science
July 21, 2017
Give in to the Feeling by Sarah Zama
Zama combines a vibrant portrayal of the illegal drinking clubs of 1920’s America with the trauma of being a first generation immigrant, then adds a dash of the mystical, to create a paranormal romance that is fresh in both setting and issues. Two years ago, Susie left her small village in China for America to … Continue reading Give in to the Feeling by Sarah Zama
July 19, 2017
+1 Blade of Universe Slaying
Had an interesting offline debate about adding weapons and armour to Cthulhu Dark. So, continuing my intermittent thoughts and hacks of the system, I thought I’d share a little in case it proved helpful for explaining to players used to equipment bonuses why there aren’t any. My interlocutor, brain clearly as fuzzy as his muttonchops, … Continue reading +1 Blade of Universe Slaying
July 17, 2017
Getting Warmer
James wound the recording back a few seconds. “—llo, I’m calling fro—” This time the ‘c’ felt slightly lighter. Was she emphasising ‘call’ or ‘all’? Mustn’t judge. Let the message create itself. Unless… what if cabal agents somehow heard both words at the same time. He typed both into the database. Work out a proper … Continue reading Getting Warmer
July 14, 2017
Face the Change by Samantha Bryant
Bryant merges dramatic scenery-shattering extravaganzas and tense investigations with sympathetic and complex characterisation to create a superhero tale that will appeal to more than hardcore fans of the genre. This novel is volume three of the Menopausal Superheroes series. So – Kapow! Spoilers! In the wake of their – mostly – successful covert operation, the … Continue reading Face the Change by Samantha Bryant
July 12, 2017
The Softly Spoken Magic Spell
Is the union of two oblique perspectives square? This gestalt of Dali’s Destino and Pink Floyd’s ‘Time’ suggests otherwise:
July 10, 2017
Among Decent Folk
*Gling* Jake turned, shoulders tense. “Morning, Jacob.” Sheriff Marcus strode into the shop, fragments of eggshell crunching beneath his boots. “Thank God you’re here. We’ve been…” Jake waved an arm at ‘Blasphemer’ scrawled across the window. Marcus sighed, then held out a letter. “Council’s withdrawn your business license.” “What! But I’m the—” “Listen. Maybe it’s … Continue reading Among Decent Folk
July 7, 2017
Thrall by Matthew S. Cox
Cox blends demonology and cybernetics with social commentary to produce a story that provides both accessibility and depth. This novel is volume three in the Division Zero series. The author accepts no liability for mnemonic contamination to readers proceeding past this point. Agent Kirsten Wren should be happy: her adoption of Evan is proceeding smoothly; … Continue reading Thrall by Matthew S. Cox
