Animus

by Matt Sinclair

Four years ago, all of civilisation crumbled and went down in flames, leaving the Earth almost completely devoid of humanity. Within the ruins of Manchester, a demented warlord has risen to power, seeking to bring about a new order within a shattered world.

In a land ruled by savage marauders, three people will discover one another and face their destinies; a valiant young woman, far from home; a bloodthirsty raider, haunted by his past; and a mysterious man whose very existence is tied to the terrible fate that befell mankind.

All of them shall find that they are witnessing the dawn of a new age.

The age of the Animus.

426 pages, Paperback

Published January 4, 2022

About the author

Matt Sinclair is a writer of fiction and nonfiction. He works as a journalist in New York City covering philanthropy and the nonprofit sector in the United States and with increasing focus on international philanthropy. In 2012, he established Elephant's Bookshelf Press, LLC, a traditional publisher of fiction and (eventually) nonfiction. Since its inception, EBP has published eleven books, including six anthologies, as of 2016. Its first publication of 2017 will be Lost Wings, the debut of Don M. Vail, whose urban fantasy novel takes place in San Francisco and the many levels of hell.

Reviews

[Tanishq Rajmani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book presents a gripping post-apocalyptic narrative brimming with mystique and exploration of human potential amid chaos. Central to the story is Luke, who grapples with his newfound abilities that connect him to the natural world and reveal a deeper existential purpose.

One of the standout features of the book is its complex character relationships, particularly between Luke and Anne. Their dialogues explore deep theories about the connections between humanity and nature, suggesting that an ancient, powerful being lies beneath the surface of the Earth, awakening due to human activities like fracking. This idea embodies the book's themes of environmental consciousness and the repercussions of mankind’s actions on the planet. Anne's perspective is particularly intriguing as she introduces concepts of "Primals," individuals gifted with extraordinary abilities tied to nature.

The narrative is laden with vivid descriptions, for example, how Luke perceives the world through his "Primal eyes," where every detail:from moss to weeds,becomes hyper-real, enhancing the reader's immersion into this transformed landscape. The author effectively captures the stark contrast between peace and the ever-present threat of violence in this new reality. Characters like Tusk and Lin add depth and provide varied responses to their grim environment, showcasing different survival instincts and ethical dilemmas, particularly when faced with the brutality of factions like the Hessians and Sapphos.

The world-building in this book is notably rich, painting a picture of desolation yet hinting at the possibility of regrowth and reconciliation with the past. The scattered remnants of civilization serve as a backdrop for character development and plot progression, emphasizing themes of memory and legacy as Luke and his friends navigate their lives in a world marked by upheaval. The Garden of Remembrance symbolizes hope and continuity, presenting a space where the past honors the sacrifices made.

Overall, author expertly intertwines emotional depth with thrilling adventure, reflecting on the nature of humanity, the need for connection, and the struggle against both external monsters and internal turmoil. As Luke grapples with his identity and the scope of his abilities, he symbolizes the potential for growth and healing, making this a compelling read that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. The narrative is intense, thought-provoking, and ultimately, a celebration of resilience in the face of adversity.

Highly recommended.

[David Bateman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic, it had multiple morally complex characters all trying to survive in a post apocalyptic world after a strange disease all but wiped out humanity. The fight scenes are short and brutal making them feel real as the characters react to an ever increasing amount of violence as their struggle to survive becomes increasingly difficult as a post apocalyptic warlord who fancies himself a Roman imperator dives further into madness.
If your a fan of survival
Post apocalyptic stories
Or you just want to try something new then give this one a go.