Simulumis

by Bo Mandoe

100 years in the future, everyone wears filtered goggles that project their preconceived biases upon the world. This is how they get along, how they can all have nice things.

Peace hadn’t come in the form of socialism or fascism or any of the dystopias or utopias their ancestors instead people are allowed to live out their fantasies, the simulation’s game engine veiling the differences that used to cause contention and strife.

But when novice gamer Drew Dennison removes his goggles, he discovers the real world is in greater danger than anyone could imagine, and his biggest quest is still ahead.

Join Drew the Thief, the Warrior Princess Sera Hector, and the autistic giant Leviathan Rosen, as they embark on a curious quest to uncover the true nature of reality... and just maybe find themselves along the way.

171 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2023

Reviews

[Ed Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very solid outing for a newer author. Echoes of The Matrix, and Ready Player One throughout in a story that revolves around a group of friends that come to realize the state of the real world when they remove a carefully curated filter. Mandoe's dialogue was very engaging, and well written throughout. My only real complaint was that the story wasn't longer... That being said it's a good thing I have the sequel on order already. If you enjoy sci-fi or fantasy give this one a shot.

[Aiden Aprt · Rating 2 out of 5]

The vision is here. I can sense it, and I know it has the potential to be great. However, I just cannot get past the odd pacing and characters that seem to alter their personality suddenly. I’m sorry Bo. Don’t stop writing though, because I’ll still purchase and read all your books.

[Donny Wankan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun read. It's part For the Win, part Ready Player One and part Matrix. The setting and the plot are both intriguing. It offers a broadly sympathetic commentary on manufactured realities and a rejection of false narratives. I like the characters, even if they're stereotypical teenage outsiders.
My only complaints are the clumsiness and inconsistency of the prose. I wish the book had been better edited. Several times I've found myself stumbling over poorly worded descriptions or wishing Mandoe had spent more time drawing out all of the details rather than sometimes vivid and other times summary style narration. I keep thinking how great this book could be if it had been workshopped with some experienced writers/editors.
3 and a half stars, rounded up to 4. It could use some work, but it's a really fun read.

[Ashley Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't stopped thinking of this book since I read it. I think two months ago. If I'm being honest I felt this trilogy was (at least what's done so far) has been more entertaining then Ready Player One and I LOVED that book. Thank you Bo Mandoe for this wonderful piece.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a science fiction fan, but I was captivated by this book with its twists and turns. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

[NAlbertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

a lifetime of timrwarps ::

a very special book in our times, especially for those who survived the 'Browser Wars' to see it all replayed as .686, with different enemies. which was the authentic real world and which is a [p]replayed simulation, is still to be decided.
Bo Mandoe is a masterful wordsmith.
I thoroughly enjoyed the work.

[Donny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book, thanks mom