In recent years, the “Nod/Wells Timelines” have become a fixture in the speculative-fiction community, with seven novel-length books spanning the science fiction, paranormal thriller, and horror sub-genres via their unique and compelling takes on historical, contemporary, and near-future versions of the world we all inhabit.

Throughout these tales stand “the big men,” individuals of great power and prominence whose actions (or lack thereof) often profoundly shape and influence those realities.

At times driven by their own ambitions and desires and at times the victims or beneficiaries of stunning turns of fate, the big men go about their business, playing important roles in their world, and others, and proving beyond question that, as the old adage suggests: “Sometimes, the clothes… and shoes… do indeed make (or break) the man.”

This collection includes the following eight tales in addition to the special “bonus” stories, “Exit Strategy,” “A Little Help,” “Out With a Bang,” and “Imitating Art,” which offer a few “optional” extensions and alternative conclusions to the experience.

• Paper or Plastic?

• Walt

• Office Hours

• The Beloved Jacob Westbrook

• Hostile Takeover

• Poker Night

• Fair Game

• If The Shoes Fit