Alternative: Owl's Nest

Explore an alternative version of Russia’s capital—where a small percentage of the population has Special Abilities, and the price for them is paid in health and silence. Traveling together with Sasha, who has just discovered her abilities, you’ll find yourself in a city fantasy world with anti-utopian elements, where every decision can become fatal.

Camilla Lysenko, a well-known writer and the author of the KAM TUGEZER literary podcast, has created several theatrical productions, including "Aviation Regime" at the Moscow Art Theater named after M. Gorky. Her novel "Owl’s Nest. Alternative" opens the series "Homo Alternatus," which explores hidden aspects of society through a city fantasy lens with anti-utopian notes.

Throughout human history, three percent of people possessed Special Abilities—but the price was always high: health and life. In alternative Moscow, strict laws govern everything: revealing information about these Abilities and the world means losing one’s Abilities. "Owl’s Nest" warns that losing one’s Abilities leads to a long and agonizing death, but silence threatens everyone who lives in this alternative world.

Want to learn about the other side of Moscow? Follow Sasha, who has just received her Ability and must choose what to strive for. The novel is full of vivid events and keeps the reader hooked, but behind its façade lies a deep social idea: city fantasy about people with Special Abilities. It’s a story about the fact that every power demands payment—and about what it means to live as “different” under harsh social constraints.
— Aleksandra Yakovleva, author of the literary series "Daughters of the Cradle".