Raeden Zen

Dazzling. That's the impact of this intro to an extensive dystopian sci-fi saga. The first book in a series of five, ‘Jubilee’ sets the scene and themes in a complex, carefully crafted future history. It’s a world of contradictions and contrasts, saturated in vibrant technicolour throughout.

The author uses a glittering palette to paint brilliantly vivid word pictures of almost-immortal telepathic transhumans, imprisoned within the earth by their own technology which sustains them underground but – in the form of a catastrophically virulent viral bioweapon – has rendered the surface uninhabitable. It’s a vast, sprawling vision, and it takes a bit of getting used to.

This opening episode explains the basics of transhuman development, the staggering scope (and limitations) of technological achievement, and the dictatorial government which has spawned a ragtag rebellion. We meet the scientists struggling to combat the virus; under threat of mortal censure should they fail.

The divided, sprawling population is oppressed by Marstone which monitors their thoughts – similar to the Big Brother viewscreens in 1984. Yet author Raeden Zen avoids obvious comparisons. While Winston Smith’s world was one of grinding, grey misery, emotionally stunted and physically deprived, the compliant citizens in ‘Jubilee’ enjoy utter abundance and unimaginable luxury. An underground civilisation might have been a dark place, dimly lit, suffocating and claustrophobic.

Raeden Zen has instead built a spectacular edifice full of shining light, diamond-edged and dazzling… and all the more effective in its oppression of the human spirit thanks to its utter artificiality. These people have almost everything, yet they yearn for simple sunlight and fresh air. Their existence is all about contradictions: the title of the book refers to a great celebration, a massive street party… but one with the most sinister implications.

The scientific content is also a credit to the author and his advisors. There are firm foundations to the biology, especially the struggle to manipulate the immune system to combat a virus which mirror-switches its genetic material and to the technological hardware.

‘Jubilee’ is a relatively short book. It contains a complete story arc, but it is only the tip of the overall tale. If you find yourself intrigued by the extensive cast of characters and the unfolding multiple scenarios, then you’ll want to hop straight on to the next in the series, The Gambit With Perfection.

The saga is perfect for readers who want an extended, immersive, inventive experience. If you’re looking for short-term immediate satisfaction, then you’re less likely to enjoy ‘Jubilee’. It asks many questions and starts many plots threads – most of them ‘to be continued’ as this episode draws to a close.
8/10

You'll find the full review here:
https://murdermayhemandmore.wordpress.com/2015/10/23/the-song-of-the-jubilee-a-c...


Please note, I was delighted to read an early version of the ‘Phantom’ series, and to provide feedback on it. I’m even more delighted that some of my suggestions made it to the published version – but that doesn’t affect my review, which is as unbiased as I make it. I was knocked out by this series at my first acquaintance, and still am…
… (lisätietoja)

The Restoration of Flaws is Book 5 in the Phantom of The Earth series. In this book we are brought to the conclusion on all sides of the ensuing battle from the previous books. Antosha takes his plan to the next stage as he seeks to obtain the chancellorship for himself. Connor breaks free from Farina Prison as his father’s (Jeremiah), plan is put into place. Brody rises from the underground in hopes to find his children and save those doomed to the underworld. Lady Isabella with her Janzer force is ready to crush the rebellion. Oriana travels through time in order to find the cure to the reassortment virus. On all fronts the story was brought to a closure but left the reader hanging at the end as it set up for a continuation of the series. As for myself I’ve had more than enough and don’t wish to continue on, it was an interesting story but for one that allegedly took place underground I found it extraordinarily unbelievable.… (lisätietoja)

The Descent into the Maelstrom is Book 4 in the Phantom of the Earth series. The Barao twins, Oriana and Pasha are sent for development which happens at a very accelerated pace to prepare them for the Harpoons which is a combination of tests based on mental and physical capabilities that will allow them to be bid on by the Beimeni citizens in hopes to be placed in the highest capacity. The children have learned very little of their parents, who they were and what they did but discover a few details, their mother is dead and their father is up for his murder trial and sentencing. Antosha is running a campaign and Gwen is overseeing his rise to the top overcoming any obstacle. Connor is reunited with his father, the Liberations leader, and he begins to teach his son about his abilities and heritage. They set off together to confront their enemies in hopes to bring Beimeni society back to what it once stood for. The storyline took a turn here focusing on the children, their schooling and their battle to the top. The acceleration of their growth was unbelievable and appeared added to hurry the story along. It became yet another story about a young female protagonist who tries to prove her worth.… (lisätietoja)

The Synthesis and the Animus is Book 3 in the Phantom Earth series. From the beginning this book is off to a quick start. Antosha has arrived from the lower levels to take Brody’s place and is full of treachery and secrets. Gwen has become infatuated with Antosha and will do anything at his bidding. Brody is kidnapped by the Liberation in an attempt that he will see their side and switch over to help bring Beimeni down. Meanwhile Damy gives birth and hands over her babies to be developed into transhumans despite her longing to keep them and flee. Damy and Brody have drifted apart due to the circumstances of Brody being away and his position taken out from under him. Damy seeks comfort in Verne her fellow scientist and he welcomes the attention. Isabelle is convinced that there is a traitor amongst them and believes that Brody is such the person and pursues to bring him down. Action packed with twists and turns at every corner.… (lisätietoja)