Metro 2033 by Dmitry Glukhovsky

I bought this a few years ago and finally got around to reading it. 

"Metro 2033" by Dmitry Glukhovsky is not your typical easy-breezy read. This book's like a dense subway you gotta navigate through. The story's thick with details and can be a bit of a slog. But hey, stick with it, and you're in for a ride.

Alright, so picture this: it's set in post-apocalyptic Moscow, where survivors are holed up in the metro tunnels to escape the nuclear fallout. Our MC, Artyom, he's on a mission to save his station from some  creatures lurking in the dark.

Now, I won't lie, the pacing can be a bit slow at times, and you might find yourself scratching your head trying to keep up with all the names and places. But here's the thing: once you get into the groove, it's hard to put down. Glukhovsky's world-building is top-notch, painting a gritty, immersive picture of life underground.

And the best part? Despite the challenges, "Metro 2033" is a satisfying read. It's got that raw, gritty vibe that keeps you hooked till the end. So if you like dystopian tales with a side of survival horror, give this one a shot. Just be prepared to put in a bit of effort, and you'll be rewarded with a story that'll stick with you long after you've turned the last page.

Dead Simple by Peter James

"Dead Simple" by Peter James – is like being strapped into a rollercoaster that's got more loops than you can count! Seriously, from the moment I hit play on the audio version, I was hooked. It's the kind of story that grabs you by the ears and refuses to let go.

Michael Harrison love to play pranks on his best buddies. They all grew up together. Michael became the natural leader of the five. He super pranked his buddies on their bachelor parties, so they decide to get revenge and super prank him. And he is buried in a grave, coffin and all. They plan to get him the next day, unfortunately, there is an accident and his buddies bite the dust. Only one friend is left and he wasn't present with the prank as his plane home was delayed. 

This is the first book that introduces us to Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. He isn't your typical crime solver – he's flawed, sure, but that's what makes him so dang relatable. And the supporting cast? They're like a bunch of old buddies you can't wait to catch up with. Although the coroner seemed a bit typecast as a grumpy man. 

But it's the plot that really steals the show. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, James hits you with a twist that'll leave your jaw hanging. And then, just when you've caught your breath, he pulls the rug out from under you again with a double twist that you never saw coming.

Listening to the audio version only heightened the experience. The narrator brings each character to life in a way that's downright captivating. I found myself sitting in my car long after I'd reached my destination, just to hear what happens next.

And let's not forget about the suspense – it's like a pressure cooker that keeps getting turned up higher and higher. Every chapter ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you scrambling for the next one, desperate to know what happens next.

In the end, "Dead Simple" isn't just a book – it's an experience. It's the kind of story that'll keep you up at night, turning the pages (or in my case, hitting play) until the very end. So if you're looking for a thriller that'll keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further. "Dead Simple" has got you covered.

In short, "Dead Simple" is a gripping, pulse-pounding thriller that'll keep you hooked from start to finish. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down!

The Dream Home by T. M. Logan

I just finished reading "The Dream Home" by T. M. Logan, and let me tell you, it's a real page-turner! From the very start, I was hooked by the gripping storyline and the well-developed characters.

First off, let's talk about the positives. The author has a knack for building suspense and keeping you on the edge of your seat. The twists and turns in the plot kept me guessing until the very end, and I couldn't put the book down until I found out what happened next.

The setting of the story, a picturesque suburban neighborhood, adds to the overall atmosphere and makes it easy to imagine yourself right there alongside the characters. And speaking of characters, they feel like real people with their own flaws and motivations, which makes them all the more compelling.

However, there were a few continuity issues that I couldn't help but notice while reading. For instance, there were inconsistencies with the timeline of events that took me out of the story momentarily.  Lastly, there were a couple of instances where the characters' actions didn't quite align with their previously established traits, which threw me off a bit. 

Still, it's the kind of book that makes you stay up way past your bedtime because you simply have to know what happens next.

Despite these minor issues, "The Dream Home" is still a gripping thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. If you're a fan of suspenseful novels with twists and turns aplenty, then this book is definitely worth a read. Just be prepared to overlook a few hiccups along the way!

This Wretched Valley by Jenny Kiefer

In "This Wretched Valley" by Jenny Kiefer, readers are transported to a world steeped in history and despair. While Kiefer's prose is undeniably atmospheric, painting a vivid picture of the titular valley, the story itself may leave some readers feeling detached and indifferent.

One of the novel's central flaws lies in its approach to storytelling. From the outset, the outcome is revealed, robbing the narrative of any suspense or sense of urgency. This decision may leave readers feeling disconnected from the characters, as the inevitability of their fate looms over every page.

What sets "This Wretched Valley" apart is its exploration of themes such as identity, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Through the experiences of her characters, Kiefer delves deep into the complexities of the human condition, offering readers a poignant reflection on the nature of hope and redemption. 

Each character feels fully realized, their struggles and triumphs resonating with authenticity and depth. As readers journey alongside them, we can't help but become invested in their fates, rooting for them even as we know the ultimate outcome.

Additionally, while the historical backdrop provides an intriguing setting, it often feels underutilized, serving more as window dressing than as a meaningful catalyst for the story. As a result, the novel fails to fully capitalize on the rich potential of its premise, leaving readers yearning for a deeper exploration of the historical context.

In conclusion, while "This Wretched Valley" has its moments of atmospheric beauty, it ultimately falls short of delivering a truly compelling narrative. Despite Kiefer's efforts to infuse the story with depth and meaning, the predictable outcome and underdeveloped characters leave much to be desired.

Iron Gold by Pierce Brown

The fourth book takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a future universe where the struggles for power and justice continue to shape the lives of its characters. Brown's expansion of his "Red Rising" series with this sequel showcases his talent for crafting intricate worlds and complex characters, delivering a thrilling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

One of the standout features of "Iron Gold" is Brown's ability to deepen the mythology of his universe while introducing new layers of political intrigue and personal conflict. Set a decade after the events of the previous trilogy, the novel delves into the aftermath of revolution, exploring the consequences of war and the challenges of building a new society. Brown masterfully weaves together multiple perspectives, offering readers a comprehensive view of the struggles faced by different factions.

However, it must be noted that "Iron Gold" occasionally suffers from being long-winded and slow-paced, particularly in its early chapters. Some sections may test the patience of readers as they navigate through intricate political machinations and exposition-heavy passages. Despite these moments, Brown's captivating storytelling ultimately rewards perseverance, as the plot builds to a gripping climax filled with twists and turns.

Among the ensemble cast of characters, Lyria and Ava emerge as particularly compelling figures whose journeys provide poignant insights into the human experience. Lyria's perspective offers a ground-level view of the social upheaval and inequality that persist despite the promise of revolution, while Ava's struggles with identity and purpose add depth to the narrative. Brown's attention to character development shines through in these arcs, making them some of the most memorable aspects of the novel.

Moreover, "Iron Gold" excels in its exploration of themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the nature of power. Brown doesn't shy away from addressing complex moral dilemmas, forcing his characters—and by extension, readers—to confront difficult questions about the cost of freedom and the price of victory. These thought-provoking themes elevate the novel beyond mere action-adventure, providing substance and depth to the story.

In terms of prose, Brown's writing remains as vivid and evocative as ever, painting a vivid picture of the dystopian world he has created. His descriptive prowess brings the settings to life, from the sprawling cities of Mars to the war-torn landscapes of distant planets. Coupled with his knack for crafting tense action sequences, Brown keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout the book.

"Iron Gold" is a worthy addition to the "Red Rising" series, offering both longtime fans and newcomers alike a richly imagined universe to explore. While its pacing may be uneven at times, the novel more than makes up for it with its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and thrilling storytelling. With its ambitious scope and gripping narrative, "Iron Gold" is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they turn the final page.

Wakers (The Side Step trilogy) book one by Orson Scott Card

Regardless of your views and his views, the man can craft a compelling story. I was introduced to Card in "Enders Game". 

"Wakers" by Orson Scott Card takes readers on a thrilling journey through a futuristic world filled with political intrigue and technological wonders. Set in a society where virtual reality is the norm, Card paints a vivid picture of a world where the lines between reality and simulation are blurred.

One of the strengths of "Wakers" lies in Card's ability to create complex and multi-dimensional characters. From the determined protagonist to the enigmatic supporting cast, each character is brought to life with depth and authenticity, making it easy for readers to become emotionally invested in their journey.

The world-building in "Wakers" is equally impressive, with Card skillfully crafting a rich and immersive setting that feels both familiar and yet distinctly futuristic. The technological advancements and social dynamics of this world add layers of depth to the story.

However, despite the novel's many strengths, there are moments where the plot feels stretched out and repetitive. Certain scenes seem to drag on longer than necessary, and there's a sense of déjà vu as the characters find themselves facing similar obstacles time and again.

Overall, "Wakers" is a compelling read that offers a thought-provoking exploration of technology, society, and the nature of reality. While it may have its flaws, the novel's intriguing premise and well-developed characters make it a worthwhile addition to any science fiction fan's bookshelf.

 

Dust (Silo series book 3) by Hugh Howey

I was eagerly anticipating my return to the captivating silo world in Hugh Howey's third installment, "Dust." Having been left on the edge of my seat by the brilliant cliffhanger in "Shift," I was eager to dive back into this dystopian universe. However, as the story picked up sometime later, I found myself questioning where all the new characters had come from.

Despite this initial curiosity, "Dust" quickly enveloped me in its narrative, delivering a satisfying continuation to the Silo Series. The mysteries and conflicts that emerged were expertly woven into the fabric of the established storyline, keeping me engrossed from start to finish.

While the story progression in "Dust" is certainly engaging, it's important to note a few continuation discrepancies that might catch the reader's eye. These inconsistencies become even more noticeable when listening to the audiobook. However, it's a testament to Howey's storytelling prowess that these minor discrepancies did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the novel.

One of the strengths of "Dust" lies in its character development. Howey masterfully fleshes out both new and familiar characters, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and connections. The emotional resonance of the story is heightened, making it a truly immersive experience. Apart from the brother and sister relationship. There wasn't enough history to make the emotional connection for me to 'feel' as that storyline reached a climax.

The world-building in "Dust" is as detailed as ever, with Howey expanding upon the intricacies of the silo society. The vivid descriptions and atmospheric details (especially near the end) create a tangible sense of place, immersing readers in the bleak yet fascinating environment.

Additionally, Howey skillfully addresses lingering questions from previous installments, delivering satisfying answers that contribute to the overall harmony of the series. The resolution of key plot points is handled not with finesse, but by bringing a sense of closure to the narrative.

"Dust" successfully maintains the high standards set by its predecessors in the Silo Series. Hugh Howey's ability to craft a compelling story, coupled with his intricate world-building and character development, makes this novel a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction. Despite a few minor hiccups, the overall experience is one of excitement, intrigue, and satisfaction. "Dust" is a worthy continuation of the Silo Series, offering a thrilling end to this exciting trilogy.

I would like a fourth book showing how they rebuild and gather the other silo people and restart the world.