What did I just read?
This book is an amazing cyberpunk novella I breezed through in one session! Couldn’t stop reading! Loved the action, loved the writing, loved the vivid descriptions — let’s get into it (no spoilers, of course)!
Short Summary
Aed is determined to find the person who took on his appearance, broke into his office and hacked him. This impostor had left him broke. Having no other choice, Aed has to ask for help from his brother Adam.
When that proves useless, he takes things into his own hands and contacts the Sieve, a dangerous organisation, hoping the price they ask for information isn’t something he’s not able to handle.
My Review
My absolute favourite thing about this book was the clash of ideas in dialogue. Through conversations, you can discern so many debates and existential questions around ethics, good vs. evil and life’s purpose and meaning. It was really inspiring and thought provoking. It all reminded me of Aldous Huxley‘s books, put in a futuristic context. One can’t help but notice how such debates remain forever important, no matter how much technology evolves.
Action
“Streetcab Seshjack” was very fast paced! Dialogues and descriptions didn’t slow it down even one bit! From the very first page you are propelled into a whirlwind of suspense and excitement. The author’s skilful storytelling techniques kept the momentum relentless, making the book impossible to put down. I was hooked!
Yes, it also got dark at one point, even violent. It also got very emotional at one point! Don’t read it if you don’t like strong emotions! 😏
World Building
Vivid descriptions and small details transported me into a world that was both familiar and unfamiliar. The reading experience was immersive and the exploration of social implications and ethical dilemmas made it all the more captivating.
The fact that it involves hackers, bitcoins and avatars is to be expected in a futuristic society involving two companies all about the use of virtual reality. Clothing details like “roman togas” and “leather sandals” were surprising. But what I loved the most was how real everything seemed because even with the most fancy technology, human nature doesn’t really change.
Characters
As I delved deeper into the story, I became emotionally invested in Aed’s journey, even if he wasn’t the perfect hero. He does his share of bad deeds and that makes him all the more interesting.
Though I didn’t like his brother, Adam, I was surprised he didn’t actually evolve and mature after everything he had went through, but I guess some people are like that in real life as well.
Conclusion
Intrigued yet? This story was surprising, fast paced and emotional. Loved everything about it and would definitely advise you to read it!
You can find the book here:
P.S. This is Olle Ordsmed’s first book! You can find more about him, here.
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