Woke: Cool Assassins 1

by J.O. Quantaman

Visualize life in the 2070s. Climate has turned dangerous. Corporations have usurped human rights, and democracies are threatened.

Dog Breakfast (DB) co-op stands as a lone bastion of freedom and common sense. The operatives of DB are in a fight for their lives, for corporate mercs outnumber them by thousands to one.

489 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2015

Reviews

[Kirsty ❤️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not much of a synopsis to go on is there? There is actually an awful lot in this fantasy sci-fi drama. Lots of little details, back stories and so much more. This futuristic sci-fi novel follows the life of several characters in a world different from our own in many ways but at the same time very similar in today's political climate. It's interesting, I enjoyed it.

[Sean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cool Assassins by J.O. Quantaman was a challenging read because of the vast background information, characters, and storylines contained in the book. It would probably be helpful to read more than once. The story is set in the future circa 2070's for the most part which details a vastly different world then what we are currently living in terms of economics, technology, and geopolitical concerns but once you are past all of that, an interesting story emerges that will keep you riveted from start to finish. The main character appears to be Nyssa Persson, a high classed call girl, who escapes from her pimp in Tokyo and comes to work for a combination spy/security/mercenary outfit known as Dog Breakfast, DB. DB is one of many colorful names and terms you will come across in reading Cool Assassins. While at DB, Nyssa is introduced to a rigorous training program that combines martial arts, data/technology, endurance fitness, and some form of astrology/psychic discipline known as psignology for the purpose of becoming a rundog. A rundog is the highest level once can achieve at DB and includes an invitation to participate in raids and other dangerous missions.

Nyssa does get the chance to participate in a raid which is the main focus of the book and along the way gets to confront some of her internal demons she inherited from her life as a prostitute and her search for a meaningful long term sexual relationship. As I sated, there is quite a bit going on in the book but if you can hang in there, you can appreciate the creative and suspenseful story that unfolds.

[Ian Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I purchased this book, I had no idea what "Loose Threads" referred to. It appears to refer to writing technique! There seem to be two stories separated by three years, and these are sliced and diced. In my opinion, a major problem is that nothing much happens in either of them, until each reach some sort of conclusion, and I cannot say much about the conclusions without spoiling. However, as an example of the problem, one character, Nyssa, undergoes training at martial arts, and the training is sliced and diced through the story, which, as an aside, appears to end at about half-way through the book, whereupon we start an appendix whereupon more sliced and diced incidents are presented.
The world building here is exceptional, and as far as I am concerned, so was the story-telling, but in this case not in a good way. No action scene could be completed in the same place in the book. No possible side issue could be ignored. Never was a chance missed for a female character not to be diverted with memories of sexuality. The sad thing is, the author should be able to write good action scenes if the temptation to get diverted could be resisted.

[BookTrib.com]

There’s no thrill quite like following a protagonist down the rabbit hole and into a new world. Whether it’s Neo from The Matrix or Nyssa from Loose Threads, the first installment in J. O. Quantaman’s Cool Assassins series, we love discovering a setting alongside our audience surrogate character, and no amount of world-building can compare to the excitement of diving right in.

Nyssa was a victim of the sex trafficking industry in late 21st century British Columbia before Cook, founder of the Dog Breakfast co-op which trains misfits in “Quantum Assassination Theory,” or “qat” for short, takes her under his wing. Qat is this sci-fi series’ equivalent of downloading kung-fu from a computer or learning to bend the trajectory of a bullet, yet it’s rooted in intense training.

Not just anybody can become an acolyte, one of the elite spies on the Dog Breakfast team, and fewer still will ascend to the status of “rundog,” the highest rank an acolyte can achieve. Nyssa’s hero’s journey begins with her attempting to find her place in the co-op and ascertain why she was selected, in the same way that Neo grasps with his status as “the One.”

The rest of the review: https://booktrib.com/2019/07/prepare-...

[Luis Humberto Molinar Márquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

[English review + Reseña en español]

Loose Threads: Cool Assassins 1 by J. O. Quantaman
Psignologic Services, 2018
449 pages
Science Fiction, Utopia, Overcoming Traumas, Action.


It is the year 2073: a couple of decades after Jen "Monkey Girl" Marov's extraordinary ascent to the top of the Eiffel Tower with which she ensured her fruitful career as an aerial acrobat in a Russian circus. Her teammate at the elite security company Dog Breakfast, Nyssa Persson, is sent on her first mission to Osaka, Japan, to infiltrate a foundry dedicated to smuggling counterfeit automotive parts that are ready to be shipped for distribution.

In addition to infiltrating and seducing Yamazaki Kazuo, custodian of the foundry, Nyssa must adapt to her new life and overcome her personal conflicts after being rescued by Dog Breakfast from the clutches of the yakuza Zen-The-Bossman, who ran her as an elite escort for a period of three years.

This story, cleverly embroidered through flashbacks and introspections written as micro-poems and set in a better future world, but credibly imperfect, is not ultimately a typical action novel, but rather the story of the overcoming and adaptation of a person who has suffered the unspeakable and who, most likely, suffers from Stockholm syndrome. The story is accompanied by diagrams, details, and a glossary, which makes it easy to understand.

I believe that this novel represents an interesting departure from the classic futuristic action and that it may be a good choice if you are more interested in the psychological development of the protagonists than in the adrenaline.

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Loose Threads: Cool Assassins 1, de J. O. Quantaman
Psignologic Services, 2018
449 páginas
Ciencia Ficción, Utopía, Superación de traumas, Acción.

Es el año 2073: un par de décadas después del extraordinario ascenso de Jen "La Chica Mono" Marov a la cima de la Torre Eiffel con el que asegurara su fructífera carrera como acróbata aérea en el circo ruso. Su compañera de equipo en la empresa de seguridad de élite Dog Breakfast, Nyssa Persson es enviada a su primer misión a Osaka, Japón, para infiltrarse en una fundidora dedicada al contrabando de partes automotrices falsificadas que están listas para ser transportadas en barco para su distribución.

Además de infiltrarse y seducir a Yamazaki Kazuo, custodio de la fundidora, Nyssa deberá adaptarse a su nueva vida y superar sus conflictos personales tras haber sido rescatada por Dog Breakfast de las garras del yakuza Zen-The-Bossman, quien la regenteó como escort de élite durante un periodo de tres años.

Esta historia, hábilmente bordada por medio de flashbacks e introspecciones escritas a modo de micro-poemas y ambientado en un mundo futuro mejor, pero creíblemente imperfecto, no es en definitiva una novela de acción típica, sino más bien la historia de superación y adaptación de una persona que ha sufrido lo indecible y que, muy probablemente, sufre de síndrome de Estocolmo. La historia está acompañada de diagramas, detalles y un glosario, lo cual facilita la comprensión.

Considero que esta novela representa un distanciamiento interesante de la clásica acción futurista y que puede resultar buena elección si te interesa más el desarrollo psicológico de los protagonistas que la adrenalina.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars. Two very well characterized females as well as a dozen or so others. The males are more interchangeable except for Cook and the rooster. Ultimately, this is a book about a sting operation but along the way, lives are redeemed and lost, societal norms are revamped, and readers are hooked. There is a tendency to get bogged down in urban planning, economics (my God! 2000% taxes?!), civics, Yakuza-like clans, and ecological morality but a whole new world is being proposed here and these side notes are necessary to the understanding of the rules. The action sequences are all that they should be and I regret only that the book wasn’t longer.

[Namita · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a rather interesting read. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first started reading. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. It’s a good read. Assassins, futuristic setting is totally up my alley.

The Heroine, Nyssa is amazing. So brave and determined. Through hell and back.
From a high class call girl to an assassin who went on the raid. It’s a lot to take in, you have to continue to read.

All in all a good solid 3.5⭐️'s read!

I was given this through Booktasters in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Ella]

*** I received this book in exchange for an honest review***

Loose Threads: Cool Assassins Book 1 is a lot more than I thought it would be. It's a multi-dimensional novel. J.O. Quantaman put a lot of detail into his literary work. From the main characters back stories to the tiniest details, everything is covered. Imagining the scenes and the details was very entertaining for me. One of my favorite details for a good book is the imagery. How well can the author get my imagination in action? J.O. Quantaman provided excellent literary imagery and detailed images, as well as detailed end notes! I felt like no stone was unturned when he was creating this story.
This futuristic sci-fi novel follows the life of several characters in a world different from our own in many ways. Yet, that world isn't different from ours in some political and social standing ways. Dog Breakfast co op is a democratic community of spies and agents who work to defend the world around them. Some of my favorite characters meet a culture of physical and mental strength that makes them into better people. I appreciated how well Quantaman developed strong female characters. None of them were one dimensional or flaky. Plus this story contains a diverse lineup of cultures and races. That's something that I don't always see in sci-fi.
There are sexual situations, but, that's not what this revolves around. And, it isn't graphic or over board in my opinion.
As with all books, some light editing is needed. I recommend this to sci-fi lovers, action lovers, and people who want to stretch their imagination.



***** SPOILER ALERT*** SPOILER ALERT*** SPOILER ALERT*** SPOILER ALERT***

I enjoyed almost all of the characters, but, I don't want to give too much away. Somethings are meant to be found in books, not in reviews.
Nyssa had a very unconventional upbringing. She was conned then sold to a pimp in a complete scam before Dog Breakfast saved her life and trained her. A crush on Cook forms and motivates her to take advantage of the training offered. As a member of the Dog Breakfast co op, she goes out on missions to stop bad companies from doing bad things.
Jen lives with vertigo, which I can identify with, but loves to climb heights that normal people wouldn't dream of. She's a daredevil with the passion to never back away from a challenge.
Cook is the leader of the Dog Breakfast co op. He's very steady and straight forward. Well into the story I noted that he and senior members of the co op were aware of Nyssa's crush on him.
I like the setup of Dog Breakfast. It's that co op that takes in anyone who's in danger and willing to work hard to better themselves and save others.

The title, there isn't much assassination happening in Loose Threads: Cool Assassins. To me, that's very misleading. Other than that, I loved this from beginning to end. I hope this review was useful.

[Φοίβος Παναγόπουλος · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loose Threads is the literary work of an emerging writer who drives taxis for a living.

In its essense, this books reads like a near-future neo-noir sci-fi drama that evokes Tokyo vaporware vibes. The stills, the movement, the colors, the dialogue, everything in the fictional world that J.O. Quantaman has created and delivered to the reader through the pages of Loose Threads is a beautiful creative effort for a positive outcome in a story that starts from a situation that is truly bleak, thus offering a vision of hope for any individual whose life might seem dystopic.

As expected, Loose Threads has a climactic ending. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters of this book, especially the female characters. I believe the reader will find at least one character to connect with emotionally. The story arc of the protagonist takes us through a spectral journey, from the dark reds of the sex trade, up to the greens and blues of escaping servitude and searching for a new meaning in life, like everybody else, in a world that is dominated by powerful megacorporations that engage in espionage and warfare.

Between chapters, the author offers us hazy visions of the technological steps that setup the story from the 2040s and take it up to the 2070s.

The worldbuilding is deep enough to allow this to become a screenplay with little effort, a videogame, even an RPG setting. This book is only a slice of that fictional (but possible) world, full of colors and emotional rollercoasters. 5 stars.

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Let me start with the warning that if you are looking for a easy and fast read, this is not the book. This story is complex in its story line, the futuristic setting that is taking place, the characters, everything. With that out of the way, lets move on to the story.

It takes place in a not so distant future, 2076. We follow the story of Nyssa Persson. She was a victim of sex trafficking until she was rescued by the Dog Breakfast co-op and was offered to be trained on QAT or Quantum Assassination Theory. This training was certainly a very interesting voyage. Although, at times it felt a little slow, it helps us be emphatic of the frustration that Nyssa goes through while training and finding her place until becoming an important agent. The characters felt very realistic with fascinating backstories. Each person felt unique and diverse, which fits right in with this world.

I loved how the author gives us glimpses of the world around them throughout the story. The story line itself can be a little confusing at times, but it is still understandable. The e-book gets the disadvantage that a lot of the terminology used, you have to go to the glossary and then back to the story, which is not as easy as with a physical book. But it certainly helps fill in the gaps and make a substantial world. You need to take your time to take it all in.

A fascinating book for those who love sci-fi action plots.

[Het · Rating 3 out of 5]

The title of the story - Loose Threads : Cool assassins made me believe it might be a story of assassins clearing the evidence usually referred to as loose ends but sadly it isn't anything like that.

The story is set in a futuristic world and follows training of a newly recruited Nyssa after being saved from a scam and life of sex masseuse. The Dog Breakfast Co-op is described to be a training ground for spies and assassins. On a personal level she starts developing a crush for Ahab "Cook" Ho who is co-founder of operations. We also meet other characters jen, meg, subie. Initially I even thought it might be jen's story but obviously it wasn't.

The story is a mixture of science Fiction and thriller . But feels very disjointed and confusing as it keeps flipping between three years backwards and forwards. It makes sense later but doesn't build up to a good reading experience, especially with all the new words and few technical terms. Although the book does have a end notes section but I only discovered it when I reached the end 😅 so was futile. Would have been better if few things were mentioned at end of each page itself with longer text marked to be read from the end notes, so that the reader doesn't have to continuously keep going back and forth.

Overall a decent exposure to a new world. Would have been a better reading experience with few edits.

[Kerstin Vollbrecht · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loose Treads Cool Assassins is the story of a group top spies teaming place in the not very distant future , centered in Nyssa Persson, who is being integrated after being rescued from her former life in Tokyo. It narrates the study of her life, her training, her integration and interacting with the others and her evolution to an important agent. It's a nice story, although confusing at the beginning as the story jumps three years forward and then backward again without making it clear to the reader what the connection between the events described is. Only after having read close to half of the book, the reader can guess what this relationship is. It also introduces a lot of information that is not very relevant to the story itself, although I understand that might be done in order to give a complete pictures of life and how things are handled inn those future years. But more generally speaking, the plot is well developed, although sometimes a littler but slow, and the characters are lively described.

[Aubrey Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Loose Threads" is NOT for the squeamish or prudish. The narrative delves into controversial topics and contrary viewpoints. Readers will track the process as Nyssa buries past traumas, deals with PTSD and recovers her self-esteem. Nyssa gets a new lease on life. She joins Dog Breakfast co-op, an informal security outfit. Her new life is like heaven compared to the previous three years of sex-trade bondage. But memories and old habits weigh her down like a 400-kilogram gorilla.
"Loose Threads" is set in the future, circa 2070s. The global economy is dominated by transnational corporations which have acquired wealth and influence that rivals the greatest nations. The drama takes place around the Pacific Rim.
Not only must Nyssa deal with personal issues, she must also examine the co-op alternative to corporate greed. Is the cooperative model for the future worth fighting for?

In short, this book is a sci-fi tale with a distinctive voice and a determined heroine-a must read for those who want the real deal

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loose Thread: Cool Assasins (book 1) by J.O. Quantaman is extraordinary. His writing delivers the best of the best futuristic fantasy. A science fiction novel that takes readers into a whole new world. The characters are fascinating...and the scenes are vivid. They pop off the pages as readers rush in turning them to find out what happens next. I am not normally into science fiction yet J.O. Quantaman has masterfully captured my attention with this first book. I enjoyed reading this suspenseful, entertaining, and intriguing book. After readers read this one, they too will be begging for the next book in this exciting series. Overall, I highly recommend reading Loose Thread: Cool Assasins (book 1) by J.O. Quantaman. You will lose yourself in his characters and marvelous plot.

[Mia C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Loose Threads” is the first book in the Cool Assassins series written by J. O. Quantaman. The book is quite long; it has some more than five hundred pages and it is divided into nineteen chapters. This book is different from others; the author’s writing style is unique, it can be appreciated in his personal description and in the description of the book.
The plot was very well thought about and attracted my attention from beginning to end. Although its length, it is a book that I started and finished in less than a week. I advise readers to pay attention to details so as to get the best of this read.
All in all, it is a very good read. One that I will certainly recommend reading, and I would like to keep on reading the next ones in this series by Quantaman.

[Lina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly expected something else starting this book but it surprised me (in a positive way)!

I’m not a sci-fi reader but the worldbuilding was so amazing, I felt captivated very quickly. The characters are very well written and I loved the fact that they had depth to them through the backstories. The reader will find at least one character to connect with.
Although the book is not really short, I was able to finish it in less than a week thanks to the marvelous plot who always kept me on the edge of my seat. I am a big fan of japanese culture and while reading this book I felt like I was immersed in an action anime which is a big plus for me.

I highly recommend Loose Threads: Cool Assassins 1, to sci-fi and action lovers!

[the-librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loose Threads: Cool Assassins is part alternate future history, part science fiction, and all great. It is a book that will leave you wanting more (and you’re in luck because there is a second book out in this series that is even better than this already great read).

This book, despite being set in the future, is a kind of alternate history sci-fi novel centered around Nyssa Persson. She escapes a terrible life and joins an elite security company.

The characters and setting are both very memorable and enjoyable. The action is non-stop but still has enough room to breathe and get settled into the world and enjoy itself some. Overall, a great read I would highly recommend.

[Abhishek Patil · Rating 4 out of 5]

loose threads: cool assassins by J.O.Quantaman is a multi-dimensional novel.The characters are quirky and interesting.The story does drag at some places but overall it is a well-paced story.Extensively detailed footnotes are provided which is something new for me.It provides a lot of detail to the world of this story.
if you love sci-fi and action thrillers then this is for you.

[Julie Porter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoilers: This is the second book in a row that I have reviewed about assassins and it's not as straight forward as Blood of the Assassin. In fact, it is downright confusing. However, there is a lot more involvement and investment in world building that pays off.

Cool Assassins takes place in 2073-2076 in various solar colonies, particularly the Dog Breakfast Co-op, a cooperative which appears to be a training ground for spies and assassins. The training is largely seen through the eyes of Nyssa Person, a former actress/call girl on the run from her dangerous former employers. The Dogs draw her into this new world of bloodthirsty fellow trainees, new identities to be forged, and a chance to gain strength and self reliance when facing sinister figures.
Meanwhile, three years later Mishima Security has a breach and Yamazaki Kazuo, security chief, is on the trail of someone called hotfeet. Three guesses who hotfeet works for and how the Nyssa plot is tied to the Kazuo plot.

In Loose Threads, the Nyssa plot is far better than the Kazuo plot. Quantaman does a great job of creating this futuristic environment and taking the Reader inside. He puts news press releases that provide exposition towards the socioeconomic and political situation that abounds. He also includes a much required glossary that defines such terms as acks (acolyte, trainee), creche (educational institution for those under 18), and qat (Quantum Assasination Theory, physical excellence aquired through intensive practice and phisiologic meditation.) The glossary helps define these terms that would otherwise cause the Readers to be lost.
As Nyssa trains with the other acks, she learns quite a bit about their methods. One of the more interesting passages is one that appears to be borrowed from Eastern philosophy that describes psigns, the framework of any natural group. They include taste, urgency, smell, hearing, seeing, breathing, moving, gravity, coordinating, warmth, balance and touch. The psigns are treated like a metaphysical and spiritual following that are meant to bring balance in physical activity and life.

Characterization is also particularly strong. Besides Nyssa, we also meet Jen, an expert climber and former acrobat who is always on the look for a thrill. Meg and Subie are a lesbian couple who have suffered tremendous loss and cling to each other even while mocking and teasing one another. Then there's Ahab "Cook" Ho, Dog Breakfast co-founder who captures Nyssa's heart by simply being a decent man and kind hearted leader. This is a pretty likable bunch, even if they are in the business of spying on people and taking lives.

What doesn't particularly mesh is the Kazuo plot. It distracts the Reader and makes the process confusing. The fact that it is three years ahead of the rest of the story doesn't help. The characters that we have gotten to know only make appearances towards the end, though it becomes evident and obvious that one has been there all along. It might have served better to tell this book as a straight chronological story and leave the Kazuo subplot to fill a later book. Plus, it could make Kazuo a more interesting character as he is being targeted and how the gang moves in to investigate and surround him. Let's hope later volumes in the series are more linear.

Despite the confusion, Loose Threads introduces us to an intricate and well thought out world that would be great to return.

[Ƶ§œš¹ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from Booktasters for an honest review

As a quick summary of the plot (when you correct for time jumps), former high-class escort Nyssa Persson is rescued and taken in by a security/enforcement co-op called Dog-Breakfast. The Co-ops of Tsawwassen (in Northern Canada) are designed as an alternative to a world otherwise run by a capitalist system powered by transnational corporations. Nyssa wishes to become a member and help them in their efforts, but she struggles to get better at the martial arts that they use. We then jump forward to her first operation where she uses her sexual prowess to seduce Yamakuzi Kazuo, the head of security for a factory putting imitation products on the market, and takes part in raiding the facility.
There are a number of choices the author made that harm what could be an otherwise more engaging book. Both the jumps back and forth in time and the long meandering exposition describing the world around them make for virtually no tension throughout the narrative. I’m probably unusual in that I like a lot of worldbuilding and I found this world to be an engaging one, but the long descriptions of it took me out of the flow of the narrative. For a long time, I had only the slimmest idea of what the main character’s goals were. It was only about a hundred pages in that I could say I was starting to get into it. It was when Katsuo Went on his second date with "Miyuki" and struggled to find ways to snag her. Shortly after that, Meg and Subie shared interesting back stories and they suddenly came alive, but then they almost completely disappear after we get to know them and the narrative didn’t develop further until right at the end.
More than that, I often felt like the author didn’t trust his readers. In addition to a linked glossary that included words like “wanna” and “kilometer” alongside terms and concepts specific to this narrative, the author chose to have characters periodically express their thoughts with little three- or four-line poems. Both of these were inelegant choices. I could usually figure out what the character was thinking from the context and breaking up the flow of the prose with these lines were not worthwhile interruptions. The ebook I read linked the terms in a way that let me access the glossary and then go back with a click, but half to three quarters of the glossary could have been trimmed.
A few more surface-level things bothered me. The martial arts that Dog-Breakfast uses is based on psignology, an astrology-adjacent concept that smells very strongly of woo. Can I accept woo taking such a central role in my science fiction? Not particularly, no. I also disliked that a teasing nickname for an African character was “monkey face.” The sex scenes were vague and not sexy and there were a lot of peripheral characters that seemed kind of bland and nondescript.
In short, this is a book in need of an editor to trim the fat and bring out what could have been a better book. The worldbuilding is its greatest strength, but I think a lot of fat and repetition could be cut out without losing much of that.

[Augustine · Rating 2 out of 5]

In delving the chapters of "Woke: Cool Assassin 1" by J.O. Quantaman, the narrative unfolds like a classical tome, marked by its language intricacy. However, the need for proper punctuation and an excess of idiomatic expressions may pose challenges for readers seeking a more straightforward sci-fi experience. The storyline, perceived as confusing and lacking a concrete direction, raises the call for a smoother transition between scenes and viewpoints.

The call for improvement extends to world-building, urging an expansion of details regarding the sci-fi universe. While technical explanations, such as the holoshield concept and camouflage methods, contribute to a sense of realism, some elements could benefit from additional clarification in subsequent chapters. Character development is acknowledged, particularly in Woke's transformation, yet the plea for consistency in exploring all key characters resonates for an enriched narrative.

Ensuring smooth transitions between scenes and viewpoints is emphasized to prevent reader confusion. The recommendation to expand on the details of the sci-fi world echoes the desire for more information about the setting, technology, and societal structures. Seamless integration of world-building elements into the narrative is urged to enhance reader understanding.

The importance of strengthening mystery and foreshadowing elements is highlighted, suggesting subtle clues or hints to keep readers intrigued. Visual descriptions are encouraged to vividly portray scenes and actions, engaging readers' senses for a more immersive experience. Pacing is deemed generally good, with a call to consider varying sentence length for intensified tension.

In terms of dialogue, experimentation with different speech patterns is recommended to distinguish character voices. The suggestion to show emotions through actions rather than explicit statements aims for a more immersive reader experience. The integration of futuristic and sci-fi elements is acknowledged, with a plea to explore nuances in technology, culture, and society.

Understanding the broader context of the story is deemed essential for providing specific recommendations. Pacing considerations, including streamlining the plot and balancing exposition with action, are proposed for maintaining reader engagement. Clearer dialogue attribution is encouraged to avoid potential confusion, and refining the balance between the mission narrative and urban planning concept is advised. Enhanced descriptive elements for both action scenes and city design are seen as valuable improvements.

Moreover, addressing the balance of chapter lengths is crucial. While some chapters may be too short, leaving readers wanting more, others may extend beyond optimal length, potentially affecting the overall pacing. Striking a balance in chapter lengths ensures a cohesive and engaging reading experience. However, as a personal note, this particular brand of sci-fi may not be my cup of tea, contributing to a less-than-optimal reading experience.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.O. Quantaman's Woke: Cool Assassins 1 is a compelling book that offers a thrilling dystopian tale set in the pacific rim in the year 2070. This engaging story follows the journey of Nyssa Persson and Jen Marov as they join a group called DB that provides them with a chance at freedom from the tyrannical corporations that rule the world. Despite their many risks, Nyssa and Jen find solace in their new life with DB, an informal security outfit that trains acolytes for the Olympics. Unfortunately, despite their exemplary martial arts training, DB is still outnumbered by thousands of corporations, so what gives them an edge? Their prized possession, Empathy.

J.O. Quantaman has created a well-crafted story in a discursive style that captivates the reader from the beginning to the end. The martial arts elements in the story are fascinating to read about, and the conflict between the DB and the corporations provides an exciting plot that keeps the reader engaged. In addition, Quantaman's character development is remarkable; he creates strong personalities who rise above their pasts. Jen and Nyssa's supportive relationship is particularly noteworthy, as are the other side characters.

Quantaman has established a compelling plot and complemented it with his inviting writing style. Every page of the book radiates with the tenacity and strength that the author infuses into the story. Additionally, he handles subjects such as bullying, PTSD, and violence with utmost care and respect. Finally, the story presents strong female characters who are driven by the motivation to overcome challenges, making it enthralling to watch them reach their full potential.

Woke: Cool Assassins 1 is an action-packed book with a much bigger message. It is a riveting read that I would rate 5 stars for its fascinating storyline and unique blend of action and themes.

[Neena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quantaman’s compelling novel thrusts readers into a tense, dystopian world where corporate power dominates and individual freedoms teeter on the edge. In the 2070s, nature is hostile, and corporations threaten democracy. Amidst this grim reality, the Dog Breakfast (DB) co-op resists tyranny. Nyssa Persson and Jen Marov find refuge in DB, ready to fight back. Their true test lies not just in combat skills but in their emotional intelligence and empathy—essential weapons for justice and freedom as they gear up for the final showdown.

Quantaman plunges readers into a claustrophobic world where despair and resilience intertwine, exposing the stark divide between the powerful and the oppressed. The sharp, concise prose heightens the emotional intensity while maintaining a gripping, fast-paced narrative.

The cast adds richness to the story. Nyssa’s strength conceals her vulnerability, Jen’s empathy guides her moral compass, and Shepp’s resourcefulness, alongside China Doll’s fierce independence, Griz’s humor hiding loyalty, and Cook’s calm leadership, all showcase human complexity. Together, they expose the moral decay of a society driven by profit over people, offering a poignant critique of corporate greed.

The novel’s strength lies in its subtle yet powerful portrayal of empathy as a weapon against systemic control. Quantaman’s characters aren’t just victims—they’re layered individuals whose solidarity reveals the true power of connection. This theme, resonant in today's divided world, mirrors modern struggles for equality. A taut, thought-provoking exploration of resistance and rebellion.

[Sofia Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.O. Quantaman’s Woke: Cool Assassins 1 is an ambitious novel that doesn’t just settle for being a fast-paced sci-fi thriller, it reaches beyond to explore deep social, psychological, and political themes. Set in the 2070s, the book immerses readers in a world that feels eerily familiar despite its futuristic technology and geopolitical shifts. Corporate rule has overtaken democracy, and the resistance isn’t made up of conventional heroes, but rather a group of underground operatives trained in combat, espionage, and an unusual discipline known as psignology.

At the heart of the story is Nyssa Persson, a character who stands out not just for her martial prowess but for her emotional depth. Her journey from an exploited call girl to a highly skilled rundog within Dog Breakfast (DB) is not only gripping but also deeply transformative. While the novel delivers high-intensity action sequences, it also provides moments of introspection where characters confront their pasts, their fears, and the oppressive forces that shape their world.

The novel requires patience from its readers, as the sheer volume of worldbuilding, jargon, and backstory can be overwhelming. However, for those willing to invest the effort, Woke: Cool Assassins 1 rewards them with a layered, thought-provoking narrative that lingers long after the last page. Quantaman’s writing style is intricate, weaving elements of cyberpunk, espionage, and social criticism into a story that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy complex sci-fi narratives with a strong philosophical core.

[Thatiane Rezende · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book tells the story of some kind of spies around the year 2070, even though it's slightly similar to ours, it has new city designs, communication, and impressive security systems. At the same time, a lot of characters' stories are attached, the main one is Nyssa, who has a chance to have a new beginning in the Dog’s Breakfast (where they are trained to be spies).

Since it is a spy-related story, I was expecting more action, but it ended being nothing more than a hero journey, with a lot of details that at some moments made the book to be very slow. Even when it’s important to understand the world we are getting into, some scenes are not interesting nor important to the story. However since it's a first from two books, maybe we gonna get more details in the next story.

Besides that, the way this new world is constructed is really interesting, the glossary has a lot of information on how the martial arts are used and other points of the story that makes the universe an attractive place to get into. It has also some images that help to understand how the city is, so it's easier to picture how the scene is described.

"Loose Threads" has a big potential to be a good book with consistent characters, but gets stuck a lot on some unnecessary details.

[James Digne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a book that fits neatly into one category. It’s sci-fi, action, philosophy, and social commentary rolled into one. The writing is intricate, the characters are multifaceted, and the themes are relevant to today’s world. The inclusion of concepts like psignology adds a mystical element that makes this book stand out. At first glance, Woke: Cool Assassins 1 appears to be a straightforward sci-fi spy thriller, but it quickly reveals itself to be a profound story about personal transformation. Nyssa’s evolution from a vulnerable escapee to a powerful agent is deeply compelling. Her struggles with past trauma and self-worth are portrayed with sensitivity, making her a protagonist readers can truly root for. The blend of martial arts, espionage, and psychological exploration makes this a standout novel in the genre. A brilliant read for those who enjoy challenging fiction.

[Lily Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.O. Quantaman’s Woke: Cool Assassins 1 is more than just another sci-fi action thriller, it’s a richly woven dystopian tapestry that merges cyberpunk aesthetics with intricate character development. The novel follows Nyssa Persson, a woman trying to escape her past, who joins an underground group known as Dog Breakfast (DB). The depth of worldbuilding is extraordinary, immersing readers in a future shaped by corporate oppression and technological evolution. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on empathy as a weapon against tyranny, an angle rarely explored in action-driven narratives. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the reader to soak in the nuances of a world eerily reflective of our own. This is a must-read for fans of intelligent, socially aware sci-fi.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a little too long to read in one sitting, but it was an interesting read. I was interested in the futuristic world that the author created for the reader, as this book is set in the 2070s. That's a long time from now, and we may not be here to see what the world is like then, but it's interesting to imagine that world. I also thought the author brought the characters to life in a way that made them appear interesting. I particularly liked Nyssa, as she seemed to have a very strong personality.

[Rachel Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What makes Woke: Cool Assassins 1 unique is its refusal to be just another action-packed cyberpunk story. Instead, it presents a world where martial arts and strategic combat are balanced with emotional intelligence and psychic discipline. The story questions what true power really is, brute strength or the ability to understand others? The pacing is slow at times due to the extensive worldbuilding, but those who appreciate deep, thought-provoking sci-fi will find themselves thoroughly engrossed.
5 star read for me! Big ups to the author for this book!

[Daniella Ette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long after finishing Woke: Cool Assassins 1, the themes and ideas linger in the mind. The discussion of corporate overreach, the balance between power and empathy, and the impact of trauma are all explored with depth and nuance. This is a book that demands reflection. The action in this book is relentless, but it never feels mindless. Every fight, every mission, and every moment of tension is tied to the characters’ emotional and philosophical journeys. This balance makes for a gripping yet meaningful read.