The Polymorph

Arbitrator Jim Brown #2

by Max Nowaz

Arbitrator, Jim Brown is returning to Earth after completing a successful mission to put down a revolution on and also thwarting an invasion of the planet Pirrus, an Earth colony. While there he found out that he is part alien and this secret had been hidden from him since birth.

Brown finds that an alien species has successfully assimilated themselves with the humans on Earth and is ruling over them covertly. When an attempt is made to kidnap him, he realises he has become a target in a hidden game where different groups are vying for power, complicated by the introduction of artificial humans and super androids to boost Earth’s population and armies.

Some ruling factions are preparing for war against the planet Levita and re-conquest of a group of planets, former colonies in the Delta Quadrant, who have declared their independence from Earth.

Brown realises that he is also running the gauntlet of former enemies who are out to get him. He is desperate to thwart the prospects of war against Levita, where he has a son he has never met and is also against re-colonisation after his recent experiences on Pirrus.

Aboard The Space Adventurer, the cruise ship on which he is returning, he meets two beautiful women. Marika, who has been sent as his minder, by the EPA, Earth Policy Administration, to keep an eye on Brown as they don’t fully trust him and Leela, the daughter of Earth’s biggest industrialist, who is secretly building the super androids on a space hub, where the ship makes a stop.

He soon realises that he is in a desperate battle for survival, before he can even reach Earth and the big bash the EPA is throwing for him, for successfully completing his mission on Pirrus.

Genres: Science Fiction, Space, Adventure, Speculative Fiction, Science Fiction Fantasy, Novels, Space Opera

Kindle Edition

First published February 4, 2023

About the author

Having completed several Creative Writing courses, including at Birkbeck and Faber, I took up writing seriously in 2012.
My first novel ‘The Arbitrator’ was published in July 2016 and 'Get Rich or Get Lucky' was published in January 2017. Both books enjoyed surprising success and great reviews. Updated versions of Get Rich or Get Lucky and The Arbitrator (with two new chapters) along with e-books were published on Amazon in 2019.
My two new novels 'The Polymorph' and 'The Three Witches and The Master' are now ready and hopefully will be published in 2022.
l have also written two plays, one of which, 'Cheating Death' has been successfully produced on stage in February/March 2019 at The Cockpit Theatre, London. It ran for three weeks and enjoyed surprising success. Further novels are at a planning stage.
An updated version 'Timbi's Dream' a children's fantasy story in rhyme was republished in 2019 as an e-book only and features more improved rhymes.

Reviews

[Olissa Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this book!
Max has an easy way of writing. I read it within a few days and can only recommend get this and his other books as well!

[Julia Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

 

I always have loved reading fiction books. I found reading science fiction fascinating, particularly this book, The Polymorph. I have been waiting impatiently for this sequel after reading The Arbitrator. This science fiction adventure novel is very action-packed from the beginning to the end, with excellent narrative and a compelling plot and enjoyable dialogue lines. I love the idea of the aliens being able to change shape and live with humans on Earth without people realising it. I like the challenges and the struggles that Brown encounters and how he manages to overcome them and face all the confrontations to protect Earth's people and save the world from other threats. The love encounters and seductions between Brown and the attractive female characters make the book more exciting and appealing to all readers of science fiction, particularly the ending.

[hTimSs S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished The Polymorph by Max Nowaz, It's got this mix of the known and the unknown, and the story starts off with this guy, Jim Brown. He's not your average Joe, though. He's an Arbitrator with alien blood and a big role in a power game that's way above my pay grade. As I followed his journey, it felt like I was right there with him, navigating through political mazes, digging into his past, and trying to stop a war that's just on the horizon.
This isn't just your run-of-the-mill dystopian fantasy, either. Nowaz throws in artificial humans, super androids, and secret alien influences that just take the plot to a whole new level. It's like a roller coaster ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
By the time I reached the end, I was convinced of one thing: Nowaz is a great storyteller. His writing is so vivid and imaginative that it's like you're right there in the middle of the action. The Polymorph isn't just a book; it's an experience, a journey to another world that's just as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
So, if you're looking for a book that's going to take you on an adventure, form unexpected alliances, and keep you hooked till the very end, I think The Polymorph could be the one for you.

[Ssteve23 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Max Nowaz's The Polymorph, was an intriguing sci fi thriller, i was drawn into another universe that was brimming with secrets, lies, mystery and dramas, in the middle of of all this is Jim Brown, an Arbitrator, with identity issues, who finds himself entangled in a web lies and danger, whilst on a mission to save the world!
Its the characters that bring this book to life and give it depth. Brown (the main protagonist) is an individual whose personal struggles form the gist of the story, and the introduction of Marika, who is tasked with shadowing him, further complicates matters.
I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It’s not very often I enjoy a book this much. It’s a well-written sci-fi thriller with perfect pacing. Very enjoyable.

[Theo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max Nowaz's "The Polymorph" picks up where its predecessor, "The Arbitrator," left off. It's a story that takes Jim Brown, an arbitrator with newfound alien heritage, from the throes of revolution on the distant colony of Pirrus back to Earth, where the intrigue deepens.
The pacing is methodical, much like a chess match, where every piece moves with intention and forethought. The book doesn’t rush to reveal its secrets or its characters' motives, which seems to be a deliberate choice by Nowaz to build suspense and invest the reader in the world he's creating. This slow burn might test the patience of some readers but promises depth and a rewarding narrative for those who persevere.
Nowaz's characters are a highlight. Jim Brown, in particular, is relatable and fleshed out—a man grappling with his identity and the weight of his responsibilities. The addition of characters like Marika and Leela not only adds layers to the plot but also to Jim's personal story, offering glimpses into his character beyond his arbitrator duties.
The book did provide a complex backdrop where Earth's political machinery grinds against interstellar colonies and alien societies.
It was an engaging read. The stakes are high, where themes of power, identity, and the ideas of 'the other' are well-explored. It didn’t just entertain, it provoked thought about our society and the potential for what lies beyond the stars.

[Manoj Tanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Polymorph by Max Nowaz is a brilliant fusion of mystery, science fiction, and dark humor that transports readers to an unsettling and unusual world. The protagonist of the book is Tony, a regular guy who buys an alien artifact and inadvertently finds himself mixed up in a strange chain of events. The disconcerting potential of the artifact to change living things into new forms—its ultimate power—quickly becomes the central theme of an exciting and frequently unnerving tale.
Nowaz masterfully strikes a balance between the ridiculous and the evil in order to evoke a feeling of anxiety. The fundamental idea of polymorphic changes is both intriguing and terrifying, posing difficult queries regarding morality, identity, and the limits of human dominance over life. One of the novel's best features is its examination of speculative science, which keeps readers interested in the artifact's potential and the repercussions of Tony's actions.
Nowaz delivers twists and turns that keep the plot interesting, and the story moves at a fast pace. Tension and complexity are increased by Tony's interactions with strange people and growing threats. Though it occasionally veers into being too detailed, the dialogue is often incisive and humorous, adding lighthearted moments to the story.
The Polymorph does have several shortcomings, though. Certain characters are shallow and function more as plot devices than as fully formed people. Furthermore, while though the main idea is unquestionably interesting, several of the story components appear underdeveloped, leaving the reader with unresolved issues at the end of the book.
The ability of Nowaz to combine genres to create a story that transcends simple classification is what best distinguishes his work. The tone of the book alternates between humorous and ghoulish, which may not be to everyone's taste but contributes to its distinct charm.
All things considered, The Polymorph is a bold and provocative book that presents a novel interpretation of science fiction. Fans of speculative fiction who appreciate a blend of mystery, dark humor, and philosophical reflections will find it to be a perfect read. Its ingenuity and inventiveness make it a memorable and enjoyable voyage, even though it might not completely please readers seeking intricate plots or highly detailed characters.

Score: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

[Shilpa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Writing was so drab. Also very male gaze-y.

[Ky Le · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh. Another interesting story poorly told. Read a little like it was translated from language-to-language-to-language by the low bidder. Jim Brown continues to have a lot of sex, kill a lot of people and androids, develop otherworldly powers, and unpack a big mystery. Have no idea how this is so highly reviewed.

[Craig · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read about a chapter and a half. It's always a bad sign when the Kindle price is $3.99. Seems like the price has to be $8.99 or higher to be a decent novel. Oh well, I just tried the Kindle sample which cost nothing, which is what this was worth to me. No more Max Nowaz for me.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventures on another planet - sort of like Earth! A great read

British author Max Nowaz has stepped away from the corporate world to devote his time to writing – novels, poetry, children’s books, and screen and stage plays. His books to date include TIMBI’S DREAM, GET RICH OR GET LUCKY, THE ARBITRATOR, and now THE POLYMORPH - a novel that provides a continuation of the theme of THE ARBITRATOR, in a refreshing escapade that substantiates the author’s authority in defining epic fantasies in the dystopian genre. His wit and stage-informed demeanor for characterization is obvious as the book opens: ‘A young woman was coming up to see him. Her gait was neither too fast nor too slow but measured in a manner that seemed to confirm a businesslike approach. She wasn’t dressed in the ship’s uniform, but in an attire vastly superior to others around. Her dress was royal purple with gold motifs as if to emphasise her status. Brown thought she was pretty, even when she looked serious. Her blonde hair was tied up in a neat bun, and her sparkling eyes oozed enthusiasm. It was clear to Brown that she was fairly high up on the pecking order.’

Given that entry, the story is distilled by Nowaz as follows: ‘Arbitrator Jim Brown is returning to Earth after completing a successful mission to put down a revolution on and also thwarting an invasion of the planet Pirrus, an Earth colony. While there he found out that he is part alien and this secret had been hidden from him since birth. Brown finds that an alien species has successfully assimilated themselves with the humans on Earth and is ruling over them covertly. When an attempt is made to kidnap him, he realises he has become a target in a hidden game where different groups are vying for power, complicated by the introduction of artificial humans and super androids to boost Earth’s population and armies. Some ruling factions are preparing for war against the planet Levita and re-conquest of a group of planets, former colonies in the Delta Quadrant, who have declared their independence from Earth. Brown realises that he is also running the gauntlet of former enemies who are out to get him. He is desperate to thwart the prospects of war against Levita, where he has a son he has never met and is also against re-colonisation after his recent experiences on Pirrus. Aboard The Space Adventurer, the cruise ship on which he is returning, he meets two beautiful women. Marika, who has been sent as his minder, by the EPA, Earth Policy Administration, to keep an eye on Brown as they don’t fully trust him and Leela, the daughter of Earth’s biggest industrialist, who is secretly building the super androids on a space hub, where the ship makes a stop. He soon realises that he is in a desperate battle for survival, before he can even reach Earth and the big bash the EPA is throwing for him, for successfully completing his mission on Pirrus.’

Nowaz’ sparkling writing invites the reader to explore other realms that manage to enter our imagination and entertain us completely. This is a remarkably fine novel – just the sort of escape we all need right now! Very highly recommended.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book

[Calibri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading The Polymorph by Max Nowaz was like stepping into another realm, a meticulously crafted universe that resonated within me long after I turned the final page. From the moment I was introduced to the character of Arbitrator Jim Brown, his journey, and the intricate web of secrets, politics, and alien influence, I was entranced.
Nowaz's vivid and sparkling prose took me from my world and planted me firmly in the middle of a grand space adventure. His knack for characterization and attention to detail painted a vivid tableau that had me eagerly turning pages, eager to uncover the next twist in the intriguing plot. The way he portrayed the book's protagonist, Brown, made me feel as though I were in the character's shoes, navigating the complex relationships, power struggles, and the looming threat of war​.
Reading this made me feel a part of Brown's fascinating, alien-infused world. Each revelation about his heritage and the covert alien rule on Earth added a new layer of depth to the story, making me question and reconsider what I knew about the narrative and the characters involved.
The conclusion I came to after reading this was one of deep admiration for Nowaz's storytelling prowess. His ability to weave complex themes into a compelling narrative is evident in the pages of "The Polymorph," making this dystopian epic fantasy a testament to his writing abilities​. This book is not just a story but an escape into a world that captivates the imagination, stirs the senses, and speaks to the reader's sense of wonder.
After reading this, I felt a sense of longing for more. The characters, the plot, and the expertly crafted universe lingered in my mind, leaving me with a sense of satisfaction mixed with anticipation for his next work.
I found The Polymorph to be a remarkable novel, a testament to Nowaz's writing skills, and a thrilling ride for any lover of epic fantasy, and a story that I will revisit in the future​.

[Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Polymorph is Max Nowaz's second book in a series. I read the first book, "The Arbitrator," two years ago, so I was quite excited to see where things would go this time.

I won't deny that it took me a while to get back into the groove of the book and familiarize myself with the characters and the world. However, it was a joy. I started getting flashbacks to the events that happened in the first book, and the enjoyment returned to me this time around. The vivid storytelling and dynamic characters made it easy to immerse myself in the narrative again. I especially enjoyed seeing how Jim has grown as a character.

The book follows Jim Brown, an ordinary man turned intergalactic traveller, heading back to Earth after his mission from the previous book. Upon his return, he uncovers truths about himself and Earth’s current state, leading to a thrilling sequence of unexpected events. As secrets unravel and conflicts escalate, Jim is forced to adapt and take drastic actions to alter the course of events.

The book is easy to get into, and just like before, you are kept on the edge of your seat waiting for what's going to happen next. Nowaz masterfully blends action, suspense, and intrigue, making this a must-read for sci-fi fans. Personally, I love sci-fi, and I try to picture the events happening in my head. I also believe this book would benefit from being made for the screen.

[DuckyEGG · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 'The Polymorph', Max Nowaz has crafted a story that, much like its eponymous protagonist, constantly shifts and changes, keeping the reader on their toes. There is a certain pulse to the narrative, a rhythm that matches the escalating stakes of a world on the brink of chaos.

Nowaz's world-building is commendable, as he deftly weaves a tapestry of conspiracies and viral media, painting a picture of a society that feels eerily familiar, yet alarmingly different. The backdrop of a deadly pandemic adds a layer of urgency and realism to the narrative, a nod to our contemporary world's challenges.

However, while 'The Polymorph' is an undoubtedly engaging read, it isn't without its flaws. The narrative, at times, can feel overwhelming with its rapid pace and ever-changing dynamics. As a reader, you might find yourself wishing for a moment of calm, a chance to get to know the characters better. But the relentless drive of the plot leaves little room for such indulgences.

In summary, 'The Polymorph' is a thrilling journey through a world teetering on the edge, a world that constantly morphs and changes, just like its protagonist. It's a wild ride, and while it may not be the best book you'll read this year, it's certainly one that will leave you thinking long after you've turned the final page.

[GrantedBooks Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my recent reading journey I just finished The Polymorph, and it was a nice surprise. Max Nowaz has written a rare combination of entertainment and intelligence in contemporary science fiction. The continuation from The Arbitrator was good, and the story of Jim Brown's return to Earth and his subsequent revelations was both compelling and thought-provoking.
I was engaged by the way Nowaz got into the complexities of identity. The revelation of Jim being part alien and the subsequent challenges he faces is a reflection to Nowaz's ability to blend plots without losing the essence of the characters. The underlying theme of powerful aliens on Earth added layers of intrigue and suspense.
The author does a great job in portraying the resilience of the human spirit, especially through Brown's character. His confrontations, his bravery, and his determination to protect Earth resonated deeply with me. This book shows Nowaz's storytelling ability, and I enjoyed the depth and breadth of the world he has created.
The Polymorph is a powerful good to the science fiction genre. It's a tale that speaks of adventure, identity, and the lengths one would go to protect their home.

[Grymm Gevierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a while since I read a Nowaz book, and I'm glad I could circle back to this author. I remember the breath of fresh air in how Nowaz deviated from how many writers tend to write their first series/books (super heavy on the backstory to explain the character/universe). He peppers in the universe and history in between the action. It's clear he has the universe well-thought-out. He's also an incredibly clever writer (as seen in the last book I read of his, Get Rich or Get Lucky), so I was pretty amped to read this book.

So, like in The Arbitrator, this book follows Jim Brown. Also, as in The Arbitrator, we immediately start with active pacing and scenes to wrap us up in Jim's adventures. What is interesting in this book, and sets it apart, is how much Earth wants to have a dominating presence across galaxies but finds itself victim to covert numerous powerful takeover plots…and Jim finds himself at the center.

This is a fantastic book with an ever-increasing pace that is the stamp of Nowaz's style. I absolutely recommend this!

[Julie Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Polymorph by Max Nowaz
Good book. High velocity sci fi with real stakes.
The core problem is simple. Jim Brown returns to Earth and learns the system is compromised. Aliens blend in. Earth deploys artificial humans and mandroids to boost population and armies. Jim becomes a target because he is part alien and hard to predict.
This works because incentives stay visible. The EPA assigns Marika to watch him. Leela ties him to the industrial machine building advanced androids off world. Former colonies in the Delta Quadrant resist re control. War with Levita starts to look inevitable unless someone breaks the loop.
The best part is momentum. The twists land and the tension stays high, even on a cruise ship. Jim keeps evolving instead of repeating the same arc.
What could be better is bandwidth. The cast is large and some sections move too fast. The book assumes you remember the first one. Reading The Arbitrator first helps.
Bottom line. Worth reading if you like space politics, conspiracies, and identity under pressure.

[Yellowstone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cold, sleek, and quietly paranoid, like a ballroom lit by starlight where everyone is smiling too hard.
The Polymorph follows arbitrator Jim Brown on his return to Earth after Pirrus, newly burdened with the truth that he is part alien and that Earth itself may already be occupied in plain sight. A cruise ship should feel like respite, but on the Space Adventurer even the luxury reads as camouflage. A minder from the EPA watches, an industrialist’s daughter circles with secrets of artificial humans and super androids, and the sense of being hunted keeps tightening.
What I loved most is the mood. Polished corridors, public celebrations, and bureaucratic praise all carry a faint metallic aftertaste. The book is at its strongest when it leans into mistrust and identity, and into Brown’s dread of another war and the pull of a son waiting on Levita.
The only stumble is occasional density in factions and motives, which can blur the edge of the tension. Still, the atmosphere holds. It lingers.

[Elijah P · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars and the vibe is space soap opera meets political paranoia, in a good way
The Polymorph drops you onto a luxury cruise ship ride back to Earth with Jim Brown, fresh off a brutal mission and suddenly forced to reckon with a secret about his own biology. One minute he is trying to enjoy the trip, the next he is clocking covert power games, attempted abductions, and the uncomfortable idea that Earth is not fully run by humans anymore.
The book keeps stacking threats and alliances without losing the thread, and the cast has real spark. Marika is not just a minder, she is a presence. Leela brings money, secrets, and sharp complications. The action scenes have that clean, readable snap where you can actually picture what is happening.
My one gripe is that the world-building can get dense when factions and plans start piling up, and I occasionally wanted a breath.
Read if you like conspiracies in orbit, identity twists, and android fueled escalation. I inhaled it, then immediately side eyed everyone.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Polymorph by Max Nowaz finds Jim Brown returning to a politically changed Earth after being aboard The Space Adventurer. He is still grappling with the shocking revelation of his alien heritage while discovering himself a target of clandestine groups vying for power, including the elusive alien species secretly ruling humanity. Brown must navigate the complex dynamics of trust and deception as he deals with Marika, an EPA minder suspicious of his motives, and Leela, a charming yet enigmatic daughter of a powerful industrialist. All while trying to thwart the impending chaos and ensure a peaceful future for both his home and the distant planets yearning for independence.

Again Max Nowaz brings to life a paradox of problems wrapped around Jim Brown. You can't but enjoy the humor and creativity of the author as he unfolds the layers of deceit and power in the plot. The writing style is bold, which is Nowaz signature technique. Overall, I enjoyed losing myself to Brown's problems.

[Rajnish Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Polymorph" by Max Nowaz is the second novel in the Arbitrator Jim Brown series, which portrays the central protagonist as he returns to Earth after repelling an invasion and ending a revolution on the colony planet Pirrus. After travelling to Earth, Brown learns a secret alien absorption and is caught up in a complicated power struggle between super androids and artificial humans. He must navigate personal struggles and make new alliances as he works to stop the approaching war against the planet.
The writing style is exciting and engaging. The characters' growth is very well done and progressive with the storyline. The storyline and the world created are engaging aspects of the book.
In conclusion, "The Polymorph" is an engaging fusion of adventure and science fiction, complete with a convoluted storyline and a cast of unique characters. It is highly recommended for readers of the genre looking for a novel full of intrigue and surprising turns

[Kimjij · Rating 5 out of 5]

Messy in the best way, with real tension instead of insta love. I read The Polymorph for the sci-fi hook, but I needed the relationship threads to land too, and they did.
Jim Brown comes home from a brutal off world mission and finds Earth is not what he left behind. He is carrying a secret about his own identity, a growing target on his back, and a hard moral line about stopping another war. On the trip back, he meets Marika, assigned to watch him, and Leela, the dangerously connected wild card, and the romantic pressure cooker starts fast.
Marika brings that controlled proximity and watchful trust building that makes every conversation feel loaded. Leela brings heat and temptation with real consequences, not just flirting. I also appreciated that the intimacy is on page and not coy about it.
Best for readers who like big plot sci-fi with romance woven through it, and who enjoy complicated choices. I would reread the early ship sections for the tension alone.

[Leventak · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Polymorph by Max Nowaz, had all the elements a good book should have, a good plot, intrigue, and unexpected twists. It is a complex plot with a lot going on, but at the same time, easy to follow.
The characters are a mixed bucket really, some ordinary, some strange and all with quirks. Each created with such care that I couldn’t help but root for them, even when their choices made me want to scream into a pillow. And trust me, there were a few of those moments.
The writing style was witty, charming, and full of depth. There were passages that made me laugh out loud, and others that tugged at my heartstrings. A balance that the author managed to achieve with tact.
This wasn’t just a book; it was an experience. And while it might not be everyone's cup of tea, it's definitely worth a sip. Just remember to buckle up – it's going to be a wild ride, that i would Highly recommend.

[00ssmink · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading The Polymorph by Max Nowaz made me reflect deeply on identity and belonging. Jim’s journey with discovering his alien heritage felt like an allegory for the ways we often struggle with hidden parts of ourselves, especially when they conflict with the person we think we are or portray to others. I liked that the novel didn’t rush through Jim’s emotional transformation; it gave space for introspection, which resonated with me as someone who values character-driven stories. The book’s blend of science fiction and personal reflection added a layer of depth. I did wish for more detailed world-building in places, but I enjoyed the central theme of confronting secrets and how that mirrors our own struggles with identity. For anyone interested in science fiction with a focus on self-discovery and emotion, this is the book for you.

[Moondrip · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid space-opera thriller with a strong conspiracy hook and enough momentum to carry its bigger ideas. Arbitrator Jim Brown is heading back to Earth after shutting down unrest on Pirrus when he learns he’s part alien, and that Earth may already be quietly controlled by an assimilated species. Aboard the Space Adventurer, he’s watched by Marika from the EPA and drawn into Leela’s orbit, while android programs and looming war plans tighten the pressure.
What worked was the pacing stayed brisk, the stakes keep escalating, and the worldbuilding feels imaginative without getting unreadable. For me, the dialogue is serviceable but a bit on-the-nose, and a few reveals arrive via exposition rather than scene.
If you like fast sci-fi politics with action (and a touch of romance), it’ll land. I’d read Nowaz again.

[Roxier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun, tense ride, and it surprised me with how much heart it has. Jim Brown is coming back to Earth after putting down a revolution on Pirrus, only to learn he is part alien and that Earth has been quietly infiltrated by an alien faction. Before he can even make it home, an attempted kidnapping and a web of power plays pull him into survival mode aboard the Space Adventurer. Marika, his wary EPA minder, and Leela, an industrialist’s daughter with secrets, add real tension and push Jim to question who to trust.
The pacing moves fast but stays easy to follow, and the writing is smooth and engaging. Was it a bit jam packed sometimes? Sure. Did I still inhale it? Yep. If you like sci fi intrigue, conspiracies, and big stakes with identity themes, you’ll probably enjoy this. Honestly, 5 stars.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read The Arbitrator I was eager to see where life would take Jim next. I enjoyed watching him grow as a character before, and with the way things ended, I just knew it couldn’t be the end of everything involving him. (I really recommend reading that book first, or you won’t be able to really appreciated the position Jim finds himself in). The story itself moves along at a decent pace, and Nowaz keeps you engaged, drawing the reader in with intrigue and high stakes. The flow is pretty smooth, but there are a few parts that move quicker than others. The descriptions are well done, and help pull the reader into the story. Overall, a great sci-fi adventure with unique MCs that will take you on quite the trip!

[Prita Mariesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max Nowaz’s The Polymorph is a fast-paced science fiction story that explores themes of identity, power, and survival. There are aliens, androids, artificial humans, political power plays and conspiracies. The main character, Jim, is intriguing and the storytelling is very character-driven, which I personally enjoyed. Unlike the typical space opera tropes, Nowaz focuses on Jim’s internal struggle of coming to terms with both his human and alien roots. It is genuine and engaging, but there are still moments of action and humour throughout. There is a perfect balance of lightheartedness and fantasy, and suspense and emotional depth. I found this book an easy, yet fascinating read. I highly recommend it.

[Daniyah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid space opera thriller with big ideas and enough momentum to carry a very busy plot. Jim Brown comes home from Pirrus and immediately finds Earth full of hidden players, artificial people, and a quiet war machine gearing up. It adds up. What worked for me: the premise is fun, the stakes escalate cleanly, and Brown and Marika have an easy on page chemistry that keeps the intrigue grounded. The writing is clear and readable, and the story moves fast once the chase elements kick in. What did not: the faction politics can read like a briefing, and a few turns lean on convenience. A tighter middle with fewer names would help. For readers who like conspiracy sci fi with romance. I would read more from Nowaz.

[Sall Ev · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Polymorph by Max Nowaz is powerfully written science fiction. Jim Brown returns to Earth after a successful mission only to discover he is part alien. He soon discovers a serious threat, however, an intermingling in the general population of a ruling alien species. With a vast array of creepy characters, Brown must figure out not only how to fight his enemies, but how to avoid being abducted. For an exciting and well-written science fiction book, you can't beat this. The plot is strong and engaging, realistic characters are relatable and the rapid-fire pace keeps you reading. A great read and one that is highly recommended.

[Stanloy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading SF novels, and The Polymorph was no exception. The characters are intriguing, the main character in particular who seems to be a combination of career diplomat and skilled investigator. The person whom I consider the secondary main character may not be quite as well fleshed out, but was still quite interesting. The –plot was well thought out, although you do have to pay attention (not really a problem as the story is quite riveting).
I am thinking of grabbing The Arbitrator - the prequel (although it isn't listed as such) to this book as well, and look forward to other writings by Mr. Nowaz