The Mantis Variant - Book One: Book 1 (The Mantis Gland)

In the dark future of our world, a small percentage of humanity has evolved with a physiological anomaly that provides them with wondrous abilities. Those gifted few are now targets of the unevolved, looking to steal that power.

"The Mantis Variant" follows Agrell, Dozi, and Ilya together in the rundown metropolis of Teshon City. The unlikely trio is set on a path of unexpected heroism through horrifying trials that lead them to sacrifice and redemption. Their group increases throughout the story, and for some, the harrowing events bring growth. However, bizarre eldritch rituals and arcane arts are commonplace in the world of "The Mantis Variant," and tragedy and death are always close at hand.

Born into a New England family of bookstore owners, the creative force within Adam Andrews Johnson has always been strong. He began composing poems and lyrics in his youth and performed for years in punk, metal, and alternative bands. In his late 20s, Adam was diagnosed with autoimmune issues that forced him to spend more time at home. He started writing unrelated stories that he would email to his long-distance partner, and the grand otherworldly tales of light and dark fantasy began to grow.