From the East I: The Badlands (Wormwood series)

Two hundred years ago, a virus almost wiped out mankind. In the aftermath it made all the waters of the earth, and its vegetation, lethal to consume. Sealed beverages, canned foods, and mutant animal meat—in small portions—are mankind’s only options for survival.

This story takes place in Bill Town, an organic town full of men and women keeping it running properly, pumping the currency of Pokémon cards through its veins; every person is a blood cell, every shop is an organ; Bill Town is a living, breathing place—ugly and utterly depressing, but alive.

Which brings us to Quinton Watershed. His parents won The Raffle when he was only a boy. Ever since, he was forced to find his value in Bill Town by being a mechanic, which he’s got a knack for. Understanding the archaic Old World technology comes natural to him. So it isn’t a surprise that the town’s mayor, Bill, wants him to reprogram a K.216 Marx Robot that was found malfunctioned outside the walls of town.

However, Quinton’s been working on a personal project for a decade; using the parts from the robot means he’ll finally be able to finish it. Will he follow orders or follow his heart?

Cover design by Rachel Harper (rachelharperdesign.com)