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Recommend this book:
Expectation of Pain
Juliet Rose
2025 Finalist
264 Pages
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Expectation of Pain by Juliet Rose is a dystopian novel that transports readers to a bleak, unsettling future where societal norms have dramatically shifted. The story unfolds on a desolate island, a grim setting that redefines the concept of survival and humanity. The protagonist, Ishi, is an abandoned and malnourished child who lives among other abandoned children under the tyrannical watch of Ms. Virginia. This guardian, more a tormentor than a protector, subjects Ishi and his peers to a life of strict control, where daily struggles are the norm and robotic overseers enforce her oppressive rules. The novel sharply contrasts the nurturing care typically associated with guardianship against the harsh reality of Ishi's experiences, offering a chilling reflection on the potential misuse of power and technology.
Juliet Rose’s writing style is concise yet descriptive, building a terrifying and compelling world. The emotional depth she brings to her characters allows readers to connect with their fates. As Ishi navigates the complexities of a controlled environment, the story also explores themes of resilience and the human spirit’s capacity to endure against overwhelming odds. The island, isolated and filled with its lore and rules, adds intrigue and suspense. Expectation of Pain is also a critique of societal abandonment. It challenges the reader to consider the impact of neglect and cruelty, making it a significant read for those captivated by narratives that explore deep moral questions within a fictional framework. This novel is a nice addition to the genre, promising to engage readers with its intense storyline and emotional depth.
Expectation of Pain by Juliet Rose is a dystopian novel that transports readers to a bleak, unsettling future where societal norms have dramatically shifted. The story unfolds on a desolate island, a grim setting that redefines the concept of survival and humanity. The protagonist, Ishi, is an abandoned and malnourished child who lives among other abandoned children under the tyrannical watch of Ms. Virginia. This guardian, more a tormentor than a protector, subjects Ishi and his peers to a life of strict control, where daily struggles are the norm and robotic overseers enforce her oppressive rules. The novel sharply contrasts the nurturing care typically associated with guardianship against the harsh reality of Ishi's experiences, offering a chilling reflection on the potential misuse of power and technology.
Juliet Rose’s writing style is concise yet descriptive, building a terrifying and compelling world. The emotional depth she brings to her characters allows readers to connect with their fates. As Ishi navigates the complexities of a controlled environment, the story also explores themes of resilience and the human spirit’s capacity to endure against overwhelming odds. The island, isolated and filled with its lore and rules, adds intrigue and suspense. Expectation of Pain is also a critique of societal abandonment. It challenges the reader to consider the impact of neglect and cruelty, making it a significant read for those captivated by narratives that explore deep moral questions within a fictional framework. This novel is a nice addition to the genre, promising to engage readers with its intense storyline and emotional depth.
Recommend this book:
Nekonikon Punk
Ctrl Break
S. D. Miller
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Nekonikon Punk: Ctrl Break by S. D. Miller presents a gripping dystopian cyberpunk narrative that offers a sharp critique of contemporary societal structures. Set in a world dominated by powerful megacorporations, the novel follows Juan Fausto, a guard in training who finds himself confronting the moral challenges of an oppressive system. Miller creates a vivid and immersive world that is a powerful allegory for current social and political dynamics, exploring themes of resistance, individual agency, and the ongoing struggle against systemic oppression. The narrative propels readers into a complex landscape where personal integrity is constantly tested against institutional power, creating a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of individual resilience.
Author S. D. Miller demonstrates extraordinary world-building skills that leap from the very first page of this brilliant story, creating a dystopian environment that feels original, imaginative, and also uncomfortably familiar given some of the darker aspects of current world affairs. I was captivated by the intense action sequences and the cinematic quality of the narrative. Miller skillfully weaves together themes of colonialism, social control, and individual resistance, inviting readers to engage in moments of reflection about their own positions within complex social structures. Readers can examine the characters' viewpoints easily, and Juan's moral journey serves as a compelling central narrative with an exploration of personal ethics in a challenging systemic context. The prose is sharp and evocative, maintaining a perfect balance between philosophical depth and superb plot pacing that keeps readers engaged. Overall, I recommend Nekonikon Punk: Ctrl Break as a powerful and provocative work of speculative fiction that challenges readers to think critically about societal dynamics.
Nekonikon Punk: Ctrl Break by S. D. Miller presents a gripping dystopian cyberpunk narrative that offers a sharp critique of contemporary societal structures. Set in a world dominated by powerful megacorporations, the novel follows Juan Fausto, a guard in training who finds himself confronting the moral challenges of an oppressive system. Miller creates a vivid and immersive world that is a powerful allegory for current social and political dynamics, exploring themes of resistance, individual agency, and the ongoing struggle against systemic oppression. The narrative propels readers into a complex landscape where personal integrity is constantly tested against institutional power, creating a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of individual resilience.
Author S. D. Miller demonstrates extraordinary world-building skills that leap from the very first page of this brilliant story, creating a dystopian environment that feels original, imaginative, and also uncomfortably familiar given some of the darker aspects of current world affairs. I was captivated by the intense action sequences and the cinematic quality of the narrative. Miller skillfully weaves together themes of colonialism, social control, and individual resistance, inviting readers to engage in moments of reflection about their own positions within complex social structures. Readers can examine the characters' viewpoints easily, and Juan's moral journey serves as a compelling central narrative with an exploration of personal ethics in a challenging systemic context. The prose is sharp and evocative, maintaining a perfect balance between philosophical depth and superb plot pacing that keeps readers engaged. Overall, I recommend Nekonikon Punk: Ctrl Break as a powerful and provocative work of speculative fiction that challenges readers to think critically about societal dynamics.
Recommend this book:
Burn the Freeze
A Sci Fi Adventure in the Mind
S.M. McVicar
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In Burn the Freeze by S.M. McVicar, Cal Shook navigates a dystopian world where the elite access universal information through advanced brain technology. After evading capture in Reno and securing a substantial reward, Cal is hired to steal the powerful X-2 headset, which enables control over local and nonlocal intelligence. Despite danger and betrayal, Cal collaborates to use the X-2, which allows transitions through realities, for financial insights and societal change. Teaming up with Maria Vargas, Dr. Ramona Cooly, and Jett Koyamatsu, Cal faces constant danger, betrayal, and psychological turmoil. Their mission is to use the headset to disrupt the control of the ruling billionaires and aid marginalized populations. Despite massive losses and peril, Cal remains determined to confront systemic corruption and effect societal change by any means possible.
“How am I going to die? I’d love to know what you can tell me about that since it seems like a lot of people seem to know more about my future than I do.” S.M. McVicar delivers a high-stakes cyberpunk style of fiction in Burn the Freeze, with all its best bells and whistles: a dystopian setting, high-tech/low-life disparity, corporate control, privatization, a fight against oppression, and mind and reality manipulation. I'm a classic lover of virtual reality world fiction, but have found that works like this one elevate the old style for contemporary readers. Cal is making money while fighting the good fight, but his character goes a long way in balancing the duality. McVicar's advanced technology, the X-2, exists as a reality-bending, sophisticated technology while the masses are living in squalor due to the Freeze Act. The writing is clean and fast-paced, the characters are fully fleshed out, and this is easily one of the most exciting books I've read this year.
In Burn the Freeze by S.M. McVicar, Cal Shook navigates a dystopian world where the elite access universal information through advanced brain technology. After evading capture in Reno and securing a substantial reward, Cal is hired to steal the powerful X-2 headset, which enables control over local and nonlocal intelligence. Despite danger and betrayal, Cal collaborates to use the X-2, which allows transitions through realities, for financial insights and societal change. Teaming up with Maria Vargas, Dr. Ramona Cooly, and Jett Koyamatsu, Cal faces constant danger, betrayal, and psychological turmoil. Their mission is to use the headset to disrupt the control of the ruling billionaires and aid marginalized populations. Despite massive losses and peril, Cal remains determined to confront systemic corruption and effect societal change by any means possible.
“How am I going to die? I’d love to know what you can tell me about that since it seems like a lot of people seem to know more about my future than I do.” S.M. McVicar delivers a high-stakes cyberpunk style of fiction in Burn the Freeze, with all its best bells and whistles: a dystopian setting, high-tech/low-life disparity, corporate control, privatization, a fight against oppression, and mind and reality manipulation. I'm a classic lover of virtual reality world fiction, but have found that works like this one elevate the old style for contemporary readers. Cal is making money while fighting the good fight, but his character goes a long way in balancing the duality. McVicar's advanced technology, the X-2, exists as a reality-bending, sophisticated technology while the masses are living in squalor due to the Freeze Act. The writing is clean and fast-paced, the characters are fully fleshed out, and this is easily one of the most exciting books I've read this year.
Recommend this book:
The Guardian
Alison Tracy
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Guardian by Alison Tracy is a haunting dystopian tale that follows fourteen-year-old Iliya Rusul, who finds herself thrust into the role of a prophet in a world dominated by corporate powers and an enigmatic deity. As she starts performing miracles, she quickly realizes that each one comes at a terrible personal cost, draining her life force bit by bit. That puts her in an impossible position—does she follow what seems to be a divine plan, or does she fight back and try to take control of her destiny? Tracy tells a gripping story that doesn’t just focus on themes of faith and power but also what it truly means to resist when the price might be everything you have.
Author Alison Tracy's masterful world-building immediately drew me into this corporate dystopian tale, creating an atmosphere that feels unnervingly close to our own reality. Iliya’s journey, in particular, really stood out to me—she’s still just a kid, but she’s forced to deal with choices that would be overwhelming for anyone. The way the story handles faith is thought-provoking, pushing me to reconsider ideas about belief, destiny, and whether we actually have free will. There’s a strong contrast between hope and despair throughout, and Tracy’s writing captures both beautifully—sometimes lyrical, sometimes brutally direct. What I love most is how she takes well-known dystopian themes and makes them feel fresh by focusing on the deeply personal side of resistance and choice. Overall, I highly recommend The Guardian to readers who appreciate dystopian fiction that goes beyond surface-level entertainment to ask questions that make you think.
The Guardian by Alison Tracy is a haunting dystopian tale that follows fourteen-year-old Iliya Rusul, who finds herself thrust into the role of a prophet in a world dominated by corporate powers and an enigmatic deity. As she starts performing miracles, she quickly realizes that each one comes at a terrible personal cost, draining her life force bit by bit. That puts her in an impossible position—does she follow what seems to be a divine plan, or does she fight back and try to take control of her destiny? Tracy tells a gripping story that doesn’t just focus on themes of faith and power but also what it truly means to resist when the price might be everything you have.
Author Alison Tracy's masterful world-building immediately drew me into this corporate dystopian tale, creating an atmosphere that feels unnervingly close to our own reality. Iliya’s journey, in particular, really stood out to me—she’s still just a kid, but she’s forced to deal with choices that would be overwhelming for anyone. The way the story handles faith is thought-provoking, pushing me to reconsider ideas about belief, destiny, and whether we actually have free will. There’s a strong contrast between hope and despair throughout, and Tracy’s writing captures both beautifully—sometimes lyrical, sometimes brutally direct. What I love most is how she takes well-known dystopian themes and makes them feel fresh by focusing on the deeply personal side of resistance and choice. Overall, I highly recommend The Guardian to readers who appreciate dystopian fiction that goes beyond surface-level entertainment to ask questions that make you think.
Recommend this book:
I, Robot Soldier
Joel R. Dennstedt
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Bryone Peters for Readers' Favorite
I, Robot Soldier by Joel R. Dennstedt is hauntingly beautiful and poignant beyond compare. In a post-apocalyptic world, a solitary soldier robot calling itself One Shot awakens after the war. It comes across a young human girl, Amy. Its primary directive is to protect her. Over time, One Shot learns to provide Amy with her minimum needs. One Shot is uncertain about her other needs, like her emotional needs, but One Shot is willing to learn. Later, Amy and One Shot traverse the world and observe devastation and death. One Shot postulates that Amy needs to be with other humans. If they find living humans, One Shot will leave her with them. However, Amy is the boss but what she says makes One Shot confused and is sometimes in direct conflict with his programming.
What makes the story so poignant and brilliant is that One Shot, the robot, tells the story from its point of view. This personification of the robot is ingenious. I highly recommend I, Robot Soldier by Joel R. Dennstedt due to the astonishing sophisticated narrative, dialogue, and unforgettable scenes. My heart went for a roller coaster ride alongside two utterly charming protagonists. The portrayal was perfect. The dialogue is nothing less than brilliant. I could not put this book down. The author delivers chapter after chapter of unforgettable, unparalleled stunning narrative. It wasn’t so much the sweet, eccentric relationship between the main characters as it was the astonishingly beautiful execution. I couldn’t get enough of their conversations. The portrayal of Amy’s behaviors and emotions was epic.
I, Robot Soldier by Joel R. Dennstedt is hauntingly beautiful and poignant beyond compare. In a post-apocalyptic world, a solitary soldier robot calling itself One Shot awakens after the war. It comes across a young human girl, Amy. Its primary directive is to protect her. Over time, One Shot learns to provide Amy with her minimum needs. One Shot is uncertain about her other needs, like her emotional needs, but One Shot is willing to learn. Later, Amy and One Shot traverse the world and observe devastation and death. One Shot postulates that Amy needs to be with other humans. If they find living humans, One Shot will leave her with them. However, Amy is the boss but what she says makes One Shot confused and is sometimes in direct conflict with his programming.
What makes the story so poignant and brilliant is that One Shot, the robot, tells the story from its point of view. This personification of the robot is ingenious. I highly recommend I, Robot Soldier by Joel R. Dennstedt due to the astonishing sophisticated narrative, dialogue, and unforgettable scenes. My heart went for a roller coaster ride alongside two utterly charming protagonists. The portrayal was perfect. The dialogue is nothing less than brilliant. I could not put this book down. The author delivers chapter after chapter of unforgettable, unparalleled stunning narrative. It wasn’t so much the sweet, eccentric relationship between the main characters as it was the astonishingly beautiful execution. I couldn’t get enough of their conversations. The portrayal of Amy’s behaviors and emotions was epic.
Recommend this book:
The Monsters in our Shadows
Edward J Cembal
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
The Monsters in our Shadows by Edward J. Cembal is a dystopian tale that opens with a terrifying scene. In the walled city of Atlas, a man named Anthem pays a visit to a woman named Juliet Daniels, and he informs her that it is time. He is going to be her last visitor. She knows what is going to happen next as everyone does. This kind of visit has been Anthem’s way for as long as he can remember. Above the woman’s ceiling, a large, amorphous shadow with many teeth is waiting. Each person’s Shiver is slightly different, but they all consume their prey with precision. Anthem is tasked with trapping and banishing these creatures with their victims to the Deadlands. But Anthem knows that his own Shiver will get to him soon. To save everyone, he will have to travel to the unfriendly Deadlands and find a way to tame these creatures.
With its combination of evocative descriptions, a compelling storyline, and characters that do not necessarily embrace their fate, The Monsters in our Shadows is a work of fiction that blends perfectly with the horror it presents. Edward J. Cembal demonstrates a knack for taking a standard premise, giving it an original twist, and taking it up a notch to exceed genre expectations and capture the reader's attention. The job of an exilist has the visual and dramatic appeal that clearly illustrates the notion of humanity on the brink of extinction, and Cembal keeps it enthralling throughout. The book provides thrilling images ranging from a desolate landscape where a walled city is located to the hellish Deadlands, from which nobody has ever returned. This is dystopian fiction at its finest. Highly recommended.
The Monsters in our Shadows by Edward J. Cembal is a dystopian tale that opens with a terrifying scene. In the walled city of Atlas, a man named Anthem pays a visit to a woman named Juliet Daniels, and he informs her that it is time. He is going to be her last visitor. She knows what is going to happen next as everyone does. This kind of visit has been Anthem’s way for as long as he can remember. Above the woman’s ceiling, a large, amorphous shadow with many teeth is waiting. Each person’s Shiver is slightly different, but they all consume their prey with precision. Anthem is tasked with trapping and banishing these creatures with their victims to the Deadlands. But Anthem knows that his own Shiver will get to him soon. To save everyone, he will have to travel to the unfriendly Deadlands and find a way to tame these creatures.
With its combination of evocative descriptions, a compelling storyline, and characters that do not necessarily embrace their fate, The Monsters in our Shadows is a work of fiction that blends perfectly with the horror it presents. Edward J. Cembal demonstrates a knack for taking a standard premise, giving it an original twist, and taking it up a notch to exceed genre expectations and capture the reader's attention. The job of an exilist has the visual and dramatic appeal that clearly illustrates the notion of humanity on the brink of extinction, and Cembal keeps it enthralling throughout. The book provides thrilling images ranging from a desolate landscape where a walled city is located to the hellish Deadlands, from which nobody has ever returned. This is dystopian fiction at its finest. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Long Haul
Pursuit of Hope
Lena Gibson
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
It is 2195 and the world now consists of large tracts of bare land sparsely riddled with small towns, where only the fittest survive. GreenCorps, a farm products company owned by the McCoy family, has unscrupulously monopolized the food market, making food a rare luxury for thousands. Ever since her deadly encounter with a relative of the McCoys, Elsa has been living on the run. Elsa also has a secret that would free thousands from GreenCorps’ tyranny, which she plans to do soon. But then, with a hefty bounty on her head, can she and her small group of a rebel, a pickpocketer, an ex-rebel medic, and a train hopper outrun GreenCorps’ reach? On the other hand, Ginger, a McCoy, has dodged a marriage her father has arranged for her by hopping a train. All her life, Ginger has been kept prisoner behind the walls of her father’s mansion in Denver. Is she cut out for the wild world awaiting her outside Denver? Find out in Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope.
If you are looking for a dystopian novel with a post-apocalyptic touch, Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope is just what you should be looking for. Gibson hinges the intriguing plot on a compelling tale of love, betrayal, vengeance, deceit, survival, power, greed, sacrifices, regrets, oppression, drama, wit, thrill, adventure, and so much more. The evocative depictions had me feeling like I was next to every character, helplessly watching the scenes unfold. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and spell-binding plot twists had me hooked. I could not get enough of this character-driven tale. Gibson depicts the cast’s emotions well, juxtaposing their complex traits. This made the cast authentic, allowing me to connect with them. Although the second book in the Train Hoppers series, Pursuit of Hope is an independent read. I loved this ingeniously crafted piece of work.
It is 2195 and the world now consists of large tracts of bare land sparsely riddled with small towns, where only the fittest survive. GreenCorps, a farm products company owned by the McCoy family, has unscrupulously monopolized the food market, making food a rare luxury for thousands. Ever since her deadly encounter with a relative of the McCoys, Elsa has been living on the run. Elsa also has a secret that would free thousands from GreenCorps’ tyranny, which she plans to do soon. But then, with a hefty bounty on her head, can she and her small group of a rebel, a pickpocketer, an ex-rebel medic, and a train hopper outrun GreenCorps’ reach? On the other hand, Ginger, a McCoy, has dodged a marriage her father has arranged for her by hopping a train. All her life, Ginger has been kept prisoner behind the walls of her father’s mansion in Denver. Is she cut out for the wild world awaiting her outside Denver? Find out in Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope.
If you are looking for a dystopian novel with a post-apocalyptic touch, Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope is just what you should be looking for. Gibson hinges the intriguing plot on a compelling tale of love, betrayal, vengeance, deceit, survival, power, greed, sacrifices, regrets, oppression, drama, wit, thrill, adventure, and so much more. The evocative depictions had me feeling like I was next to every character, helplessly watching the scenes unfold. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and spell-binding plot twists had me hooked. I could not get enough of this character-driven tale. Gibson depicts the cast’s emotions well, juxtaposing their complex traits. This made the cast authentic, allowing me to connect with them. Although the second book in the Train Hoppers series, Pursuit of Hope is an independent read. I loved this ingeniously crafted piece of work.
Recommend this book:
Forged Under Fire
The Coalition Trilogy Book 1
Kyra Anderson
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
She had decided to go north to Canada with Bethany, but things were not that simple for Amelia. She did not want to leave her little sister who looked up to her, her parents, and her engagements with the Coalition. Amelia had known Bethany all her life; now they were friends and lovers, and that's why when Mr. Archer threatened to report Bethany, Amelia went the extra mile to protect her. The meeting doesn't go as planned, and Mr. Archer is killed. How will Amelia deal with this situation, and will the Coalition help her? After the second revolution, when minorities are persecuted, neighbors spy on each other. People live in fear, but a small group of people known as the Coalition are putting up resistance. To find out how things unfold, get a copy of Forged Under Fire: The Coalition Trilogy Book 1 by Kyra Anderson.
One of the questions I found myself contemplating as I was reading Forged Under Fire by Kyra Anderson was: to what extent should the government be involved in the lives of its citizens, and should they have a say in people's private lives? This is a brilliantly written work that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. I loved how effective Kyra is at passing on the intended message. The plot also flows seamlessly, leaving no room for confusion for the reader. I also loved the vivid description of events and emotions of the well-developed characters that captured my imagination from the first chapter to the last. I cannot wait to read something else by this talented author.
She had decided to go north to Canada with Bethany, but things were not that simple for Amelia. She did not want to leave her little sister who looked up to her, her parents, and her engagements with the Coalition. Amelia had known Bethany all her life; now they were friends and lovers, and that's why when Mr. Archer threatened to report Bethany, Amelia went the extra mile to protect her. The meeting doesn't go as planned, and Mr. Archer is killed. How will Amelia deal with this situation, and will the Coalition help her? After the second revolution, when minorities are persecuted, neighbors spy on each other. People live in fear, but a small group of people known as the Coalition are putting up resistance. To find out how things unfold, get a copy of Forged Under Fire: The Coalition Trilogy Book 1 by Kyra Anderson.
One of the questions I found myself contemplating as I was reading Forged Under Fire by Kyra Anderson was: to what extent should the government be involved in the lives of its citizens, and should they have a say in people's private lives? This is a brilliantly written work that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. I loved how effective Kyra is at passing on the intended message. The plot also flows seamlessly, leaving no room for confusion for the reader. I also loved the vivid description of events and emotions of the well-developed characters that captured my imagination from the first chapter to the last. I cannot wait to read something else by this talented author.
Recommend this book:
Futureproof
A Novel
Stephen Albrecht
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Scott Cahan for Readers' Favorite
Futureproof by Stephen Albrecht is a science fiction thriller about technology that has gone too far. It takes some of the newest innovations of today and shows how they might affect our society in 30 years. The answer we get in Futureproof is fascinating. The story follows Joe and Evie Watson. They have an ideal life with three kids, a nice home, and fulfilling careers. Supercomputers called ex-brains are involved in literally everything they do. The ex-brains are considered good things that make everything better. Then, out of the blue, their perfect life is drastically interrupted. Joe is forced to undergo a change that makes no sense emotionally. However, according to Joe’s ex-brain, it makes perfect sense. And most everyone agrees that ex-brains know best.
Futureproof somehow manages to be extremely smart and very down-to-earth at the same time, much like one of the ex-brains featured in the story. Stephen Albrecht has a firm grasp of A.I. technology and computers in general. He also has a very natural style of writing that makes all the technical jargon easy to understand and digest. Even though Futureproof is set 30 years in our future, I found the premise to be eerily real. The book is well written, both from a technical standpoint and more importantly from a human standpoint. I also enjoyed the way the tension in Futureproof builds slowly but surely. The plot involves multiple strands that seem almost ordinary at first but then the strands begin to come together and the larger picture starts to become clear. Before we know it, we realize we’re looking at a work of art that is beautiful and terrifying at the same time. I highly recommend Futureproof to anyone who enjoys science fiction that is smart, clever, fun, and thrilling.
Futureproof by Stephen Albrecht is a science fiction thriller about technology that has gone too far. It takes some of the newest innovations of today and shows how they might affect our society in 30 years. The answer we get in Futureproof is fascinating. The story follows Joe and Evie Watson. They have an ideal life with three kids, a nice home, and fulfilling careers. Supercomputers called ex-brains are involved in literally everything they do. The ex-brains are considered good things that make everything better. Then, out of the blue, their perfect life is drastically interrupted. Joe is forced to undergo a change that makes no sense emotionally. However, according to Joe’s ex-brain, it makes perfect sense. And most everyone agrees that ex-brains know best.
Futureproof somehow manages to be extremely smart and very down-to-earth at the same time, much like one of the ex-brains featured in the story. Stephen Albrecht has a firm grasp of A.I. technology and computers in general. He also has a very natural style of writing that makes all the technical jargon easy to understand and digest. Even though Futureproof is set 30 years in our future, I found the premise to be eerily real. The book is well written, both from a technical standpoint and more importantly from a human standpoint. I also enjoyed the way the tension in Futureproof builds slowly but surely. The plot involves multiple strands that seem almost ordinary at first but then the strands begin to come together and the larger picture starts to become clear. Before we know it, we realize we’re looking at a work of art that is beautiful and terrifying at the same time. I highly recommend Futureproof to anyone who enjoys science fiction that is smart, clever, fun, and thrilling.
Recommend this book:
Loy
In the Forests of the Mind
Todd David Gross
2024 Gold Medal
410 Pages
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Loy: In the Forests of the Mind by Todd David Gross follows the story of the Rehloy, people who have evolved in such a way that they are finely in tune with nature. Born blind, they rely on their other senses until puberty. All is well until a group arrives with weapons and machines, unlike anything the Rehloy have experienced before. They will have to fight change as these intruders begin desecrating the lands to build their cities.
Loy: In the Forests of the Mind by Todd David Gross is a wonderful and enjoyable book that sometimes reminded me of the movie Avatar. However, there were very few similarities. Gross did an amazing job with the world-building for this tale, from the scenery to the history of the Rehloy. Every detail of this story was well thought out and interwoven into a brilliant fantasy epic. The characters were unique, each with their distinct personality and purpose within the story. I particularly found myself drawn to Reena; her perspective always seemed insightful and calm, and she remained strong-willed despite everything. I feel as though she perfectly represented what the Rehloy people were meant to stand for. Overall, this is a beautiful and engaging story with rich lore, captivating themes, and relatable characters wrapped up in an epic tale that will have you hanging off every page. Any fan of fantasy novels would love this book.
Loy: In the Forests of the Mind by Todd David Gross follows the story of the Rehloy, people who have evolved in such a way that they are finely in tune with nature. Born blind, they rely on their other senses until puberty. All is well until a group arrives with weapons and machines, unlike anything the Rehloy have experienced before. They will have to fight change as these intruders begin desecrating the lands to build their cities.
Loy: In the Forests of the Mind by Todd David Gross is a wonderful and enjoyable book that sometimes reminded me of the movie Avatar. However, there were very few similarities. Gross did an amazing job with the world-building for this tale, from the scenery to the history of the Rehloy. Every detail of this story was well thought out and interwoven into a brilliant fantasy epic. The characters were unique, each with their distinct personality and purpose within the story. I particularly found myself drawn to Reena; her perspective always seemed insightful and calm, and she remained strong-willed despite everything. I feel as though she perfectly represented what the Rehloy people were meant to stand for. Overall, this is a beautiful and engaging story with rich lore, captivating themes, and relatable characters wrapped up in an epic tale that will have you hanging off every page. Any fan of fantasy novels would love this book.
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