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Cyber Dreams #1
Electric Angel
Enter a frighteningly familiar dystopian world with the first book of a new series from the author of Falling with Folded Wings and Victor of Tucson.
In the year 2107, the world has both made astounding leaps forward and reduced humanity to its most basic existence. While the megacorps and those who rule them enjoy lives of extraordinary comfort and ease, most people barely scrape by, doing whatever they can to keep going.
Juliet Bianchi is one of the latter. She works cutting metal in a scrapyard and doesn’t have much to show for it except for a small group of equally bereft, fiercely loyal friends. Still, she maintains a bright disposition, possessing more hope and optimism than anyone would expect her to—and she’s going to need it . . .
When Juliet stumbles upon what looks like a botched kidnapping, the victim dispatches his abductors and lives just long enough to give her a stolen AI chip. This gift soon transforms Juliet from a worker bee into a killer queen. Armed with far more power and skill than she can comprehend—let alone control—she finds herself drawn into a shadowy world where survival itself counts as victory.
Juliet has never been one to push people around. But when it comes to fighting the corrupt corporate overlords, she’s more than happy to push back.
In the year 2107, the world has both made astounding leaps forward and reduced humanity to its most basic existence. While the megacorps and those who rule them enjoy lives of extraordinary comfort and ease, most people barely scrape by, doing whatever they can to keep going.
Juliet Bianchi is one of the latter. She works cutting metal in a scrapyard and doesn’t have much to show for it except for a small group of equally bereft, fiercely loyal friends. Still, she maintains a bright disposition, possessing more hope and optimism than anyone would expect her to—and she’s going to need it . . .
When Juliet stumbles upon what looks like a botched kidnapping, the victim dispatches his abductors and lives just long enough to give her a stolen AI chip. This gift soon transforms Juliet from a worker bee into a killer queen. Armed with far more power and skill than she can comprehend—let alone control—she finds herself drawn into a shadowy world where survival itself counts as victory.
Juliet has never been one to push people around. But when it comes to fighting the corrupt corporate overlords, she’s more than happy to push back.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2023
413 people are currently reading
726 people want to read
About the author
Plum Parrot
28 books143 followersPlum Parrot is the pen name of author MC Gallup, who grew up in Southern Arizona and spent much of his youth wandering around the Sonoran Desert, hunting imaginary monsters and building forts. He studied creative writing at the University of Arizona and, for a number of years, attempted to teach middle schoolers to love literature and write their own stories. If he's not out walking his Airedale Terrier, you can find Gallup writing, reading his favorite authors, or playing D&D with friends and family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
January 9, 2025
This is a sci-fi power fantasy that gives off faint signals of cyberpunk and LitRPG that probably do more harm than good. You can pretty much ignore the LitRPG angle. Juliet's Personal AI, Angel, rates certain aspects of her capabilities in a kind of chart. But it's not stats and the only progression is through normal work like exercise and practice and I'm a little confused why the author bothered.
The cyberpunk is a bit more problematic. There are a lot of elements that borrow from that genre. There are corporations with way more power than they should have who exploit their workers yadda yadda. And there are physical enhancements/improvements including an expectation that everyone has at least enough to have a personal AI, including things to see and hear them. And you even have a codified group of people who do odd adventure-type jobs for pay that's another staple of the genre.
But cyberpunk is more than its trappings. It is also a tone. And this story counters that pretty substantially. This is nowhere more evident than in Juliet's character. She's naïve and trusting in a way that would have seen her killed if she hadn't picked up the overpowered PAI in the beginning of the story. She is also a natural crusader who really, really wants to right wrongs and help people.
This is only a bad thing in the sense that it will probably upset expectations in readers who are here for the cyberpunk. The thing is, the author supports Juliet not only by giving her the cheat by acquiring the "prototype PAI" that can do things nobody else can do. He also gives her characters who join her in her altruistic motivations who provide key support for her outlook (the power of friendship is, if not a theme, then at least a pronounced element).
So you have a tone at odds with itself. Juliet experiences the dire betrayals cyberpunk is known for and she inhabits a dark future with people in power who are selfish and exploitative. But she also expects to do good things herself. And trusts easily. And that trust is often born out for reasons that don't really stand up well.
None of this is bad per se. I didn't mind the setting being compromised in this way. Mostly. The last fifth of the story has a turn that I had a hard time caring about and I'll admit skimming some of the internal hand-wringing in that last bit. Indeed, the entire .
Anyway, I'm going to go with four stars because I liked Juliet and I've been into sci-fi power fantasies lately and this fit the bill nicely. The disjointed tone wasn't that big a hit for me but that last bit of plot was weak enough to solidify the four stars without me having to think hard about the rating.
A note about Chaste: Juliet doesn't have time to fool around and is in a low trust environment from start to finish of this story. Yeah, she's a bit too trusting of others, even when they don't turn on her, but she's not stupid enough to make a go of intimacy. So this is very chaste.
A note about LGBTQ: I'm not going to tag this because it's a little subtle, but Juliet displays interest/attraction to both men and women during the course of the story. There's no expression of this beyond her inner monologue and the kind of flirting that is subtle enough to be deniable. But she's pretty obviously bisexual in the same way I am. And I found that interesting so I'm throwing this note on just because.
The cyberpunk is a bit more problematic. There are a lot of elements that borrow from that genre. There are corporations with way more power than they should have who exploit their workers yadda yadda. And there are physical enhancements/improvements including an expectation that everyone has at least enough to have a personal AI, including things to see and hear them. And you even have a codified group of people who do odd adventure-type jobs for pay that's another staple of the genre.
But cyberpunk is more than its trappings. It is also a tone. And this story counters that pretty substantially. This is nowhere more evident than in Juliet's character. She's naïve and trusting in a way that would have seen her killed if she hadn't picked up the overpowered PAI in the beginning of the story. She is also a natural crusader who really, really wants to right wrongs and help people.
This is only a bad thing in the sense that it will probably upset expectations in readers who are here for the cyberpunk. The thing is, the author supports Juliet not only by giving her the cheat by acquiring the "prototype PAI" that can do things nobody else can do. He also gives her characters who join her in her altruistic motivations who provide key support for her outlook (the power of friendship is, if not a theme, then at least a pronounced element).
So you have a tone at odds with itself. Juliet experiences the dire betrayals cyberpunk is known for and she inhabits a dark future with people in power who are selfish and exploitative. But she also expects to do good things herself. And trusts easily. And that trust is often born out for reasons that don't really stand up well.
None of this is bad per se. I didn't mind the setting being compromised in this way. Mostly. The last fifth of the story has a turn that I had a hard time caring about and I'll admit skimming some of the internal hand-wringing in that last bit. Indeed, the entire .
Anyway, I'm going to go with four stars because I liked Juliet and I've been into sci-fi power fantasies lately and this fit the bill nicely. The disjointed tone wasn't that big a hit for me but that last bit of plot was weak enough to solidify the four stars without me having to think hard about the rating.
A note about Chaste: Juliet doesn't have time to fool around and is in a low trust environment from start to finish of this story. Yeah, she's a bit too trusting of others, even when they don't turn on her, but she's not stupid enough to make a go of intimacy. So this is very chaste.
A note about LGBTQ: I'm not going to tag this because it's a little subtle, but Juliet displays interest/attraction to both men and women during the course of the story. There's no expression of this beyond her inner monologue and the kind of flirting that is subtle enough to be deniable. But she's pretty obviously bisexual in the same way I am. And I found that interesting so I'm throwing this note on just because.
August 21, 2023
Great cyberpunk world-building and story in general, but it's sadly ruined by yet another stupid, and continually naive MC. For example, after coming under the scrutiny of a major corporation that's trying to make her "disappear", she somehow has the intuition to lay low and mask her presence from all surveillance...yet one of the first things she does is reach out to her closest family member and go to their house.
I can sympathize with an MC that's dropped into a situation far out of their comfort zone, but when authors seemingly roll a d20 to determine whether they're retarded or brilliant for any given situation, it makes the MC unbearable. Fear not though, for the MC has plot armor with no cool down, and seems to be running on an improbability engine.
I can sympathize with an MC that's dropped into a situation far out of their comfort zone, but when authors seemingly roll a d20 to determine whether they're retarded or brilliant for any given situation, it makes the MC unbearable. Fear not though, for the MC has plot armor with no cool down, and seems to be running on an improbability engine.
July 8, 2025
Electric Angel (Cyber Dreams #1) by Plum Parrot: Girls Get it Done
Electric Angel (Cyber Dreams #1) by Plum Parrot offers readers a thrilling dive into the world of cybernetic dreams and virtual reality adventures. With its futuristic setting and captivating premise, the novel promises an exhilarating ride through a landscape where technology blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. However, while it brings some innovative elements to the table, it ultimately falls short when compared to its contemporaries in the cyberpunk genre.
Parrot's writing style is fast-paced and immersive, plunging readers headfirst into the neon-lit streets and virtual realms of the cyberpunk world. However, the plot feels somewhat derivative, relying on familiar tropes and clichés that fail to offer much in the way of originality.
In Electric Angel, readers follow the protagonist as they navigate the dangerous underworld of cybernetic dreams, uncovering secrets and battling adversaries along the way. While the concept is intriguing, the execution feels somewhat lacking, with the plot meandering at times and failing to deliver on its promise of high-stakes action and suspense.
When comparing Electric Angel to its contemporaries in the cyberpunk genre, such as William Gibson's Neuromancer or Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash, it becomes apparent that the novel lacks the depth and complexity that have made these classics enduring favorites among readers. While it may offer some entertainment for fans of the genre, it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression.
Moreover, the character development in Electric Angel feels somewhat shallow, with the protagonist and supporting cast failing to undergo significant growth or evolution throughout the narrative. While there are moments of introspection and personal struggle, they ultimately feel underdeveloped and lacking in emotional depth.
Overall, Electric Angel (Cyber Dreams #1) is a decent entry into the cyberpunk genre, offering an entertaining if somewhat formulaic ride through a futuristic landscape of technology and intrigue. While it may appeal to readers looking for a quick and action-packed read, it ultimately falls short when compared to its contemporaries in terms of originality and depth.
Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
September 20, 2023
a lot was said and done… but nothing of value
August 4, 2023
A fun cyberpunk novel that is driven by main character Juliet, a scrap yard cutter, and her new personal AI, Angel (alexa/siri on that next level stuff), as they try to get out of the mess they found themselves in.
Classic dark future with corporations running a fragmented society. The world building is interesting without taking over the whole word count.
Although the premise grants Juliet a powerful edge in someways the author is Not shy to show that our protagonist isn't perfect or invincible. The world throws them around quite a bit on their path to a more stable life.
The third act does a good job showcasing Juliet's growth, providing much needed stakes and interpersonal conflict just when thing are feeling just a little too stable.
Classic dark future with corporations running a fragmented society. The world building is interesting without taking over the whole word count.
Although the premise grants Juliet a powerful edge in someways the author is Not shy to show that our protagonist isn't perfect or invincible. The world throws them around quite a bit on their path to a more stable life.
The third act does a good job showcasing Juliet's growth, providing much needed stakes and interpersonal conflict just when thing are feeling just a little too stable.
August 21, 2023
The book is way too YA and about a very much of a naive girl in a very big corporate world. On top of that the narrator hits these vocal levels that really get on my nerves.
March 28, 2024
Gritty
New take on a possible dystopian future. Governments seemed to have disappeared completely from this future so foreign affairs are strangely absent. Still the plucky rebels are doing well in their fight against corporations, which are still the bad guys. Good action, interesting characters, enough twists to make this a start well worth reading the next book.
New take on a possible dystopian future. Governments seemed to have disappeared completely from this future so foreign affairs are strangely absent. Still the plucky rebels are doing well in their fight against corporations, which are still the bad guys. Good action, interesting characters, enough twists to make this a start well worth reading the next book.
September 13, 2023
Good, but not quite litRPG
It's an enjoyable book. Good setting, interesting characters, interesting hints of world backstory. I wouldn't really call it litRPG or Gamelit, though. It's really good Cyberpunk and the implant in the MC's head gives her a little bit of an interface, but not quite up to the standards of the genre. Minus 1 star for that.
It's an enjoyable book. Good setting, interesting characters, interesting hints of world backstory. I wouldn't really call it litRPG or Gamelit, though. It's really good Cyberpunk and the implant in the MC's head gives her a little bit of an interface, but not quite up to the standards of the genre. Minus 1 star for that.
August 19, 2023
Brilliant
Another well crafted story and works from this Author! Mostly a sci-fi fantasy with hints of LitRPG, I have thoroughly enjoyed this, and will continue to read this series, hoping for an audiobook at some point too, thanks PlumParrot for all your stories!
Another well crafted story and works from this Author! Mostly a sci-fi fantasy with hints of LitRPG, I have thoroughly enjoyed this, and will continue to read this series, hoping for an audiobook at some point too, thanks PlumParrot for all your stories!
October 12, 2024
Electric Angel is a great entry into the cyberpunk genre. The world building is detailed and thoughtful, filled with slang, cyber tech, AI, all within a believable dystopian future. It has a slight LitRPG/progressive feature to it but that is mostly in the background. The character building and plot were a little rushed but the world and story more than made up for it. Overall I am excited to read the next entry in this series.
July 17, 2024
The world building is tight and easy to understand. Not once did I get it come off as a information dump. The author themselves have a charm to their writing with simple prose and doesn’t linger on lot of description.
I would have liked more theme to be woven into the story and the main character to have more international conflict. Also the characters were flat, if scenes had been crafted to show other sides to their personalities it would have shined and been a four or five star for me.
I would have liked more theme to be woven into the story and the main character to have more international conflict. Also the characters were flat, if scenes had been crafted to show other sides to their personalities it would have shined and been a four or five star for me.
December 15, 2023
enjoy the world building, and the premise, did not think the MC had enough gravitas, or ability to carry the story.
First of all love, the world building, but I did not think there were enough RPG elements in the book to characterize this as an RPG cyberpunk book. The MC was not very aggressive, did not wish or try to learn about her abilities, just let the AI do it seem to be her thought process. Like the additional characters, maybe she will be more aggressive in the following book, and try to learn to use her abilities. I did enjoy the book, but I just did not think the character had enough gravitas to carry the story. We’ll see how the MC proceeds in the next book.
First of all love, the world building, but I did not think there were enough RPG elements in the book to characterize this as an RPG cyberpunk book. The MC was not very aggressive, did not wish or try to learn about her abilities, just let the AI do it seem to be her thought process. Like the additional characters, maybe she will be more aggressive in the following book, and try to learn to use her abilities. I did enjoy the book, but I just did not think the character had enough gravitas to carry the story. We’ll see how the MC proceeds in the next book.
June 1, 2024
interesting read
Solid story, kept me interested in the plot, I’ll definitely be picking up the next one and continuing the story.
Solid story, kept me interested in the plot, I’ll definitely be picking up the next one and continuing the story.
February 15, 2024
Electric Angel
I really enjoyed the world-building, character development, and nonstop action of this book. I am looking forward to seeing how Juliet and Angel grow together in the next books.
I really enjoyed the world-building, character development, and nonstop action of this book. I am looking forward to seeing how Juliet and Angel grow together in the next books.
January 13, 2025
This book was ok. I didn't realise it was young adult themed going in and should give it some leeway for that. It's sort of like Expeditionary Force. The main character gets a superpowered AI that then hand waves away pretty much any problem she runs into.
The plot is meandering. Felt like volume one of a larger story than a book in its own right. The ending isn't anything special and there was a lot of filler in between plot points.
There isn't any humour and the dialogue is just ok. The setting makes sense but is not particularly interesting. The characters the MC is friends with are all great and nice whereas almost everyone else isn't. Just very standard YA sort of stuff.
The narration was ok although there were a couple of strange pronunciations. There are people who would love this book but I'm unfortunately not one of them. I won't be reading the sequels.
The plot is meandering. Felt like volume one of a larger story than a book in its own right. The ending isn't anything special and there was a lot of filler in between plot points.
There isn't any humour and the dialogue is just ok. The setting makes sense but is not particularly interesting. The characters the MC is friends with are all great and nice whereas almost everyone else isn't. Just very standard YA sort of stuff.
The narration was ok although there were a couple of strange pronunciations. There are people who would love this book but I'm unfortunately not one of them. I won't be reading the sequels.
August 21, 2023
Stunning story, well written, change in genre
Excellent cyberpunk story with good backdrop descriptions and plot. The story follows Juliette as she stumbles into getting a cutting edge AI implant and then from there escapes from the hunt by the AI's original owners.
She then takes up a career in cyber warrior IT data mining and earns skills and improved equipment (no levelling here at all) with various ups and downs. Good tension and combat.
Excellent cyberpunk story with good backdrop descriptions and plot. The story follows Juliette as she stumbles into getting a cutting edge AI implant and then from there escapes from the hunt by the AI's original owners.
She then takes up a career in cyber warrior IT data mining and earns skills and improved equipment (no levelling here at all) with various ups and downs. Good tension and combat.
September 4, 2023
Nice
I love that while the cyberpunk genre can be morally grey, our Protagonist, Juliet, struggles with the consequences of her actions and tries to do the least harm that she can. I also appreciate how, even with all the cybernetic limbs and computer-assisted everything, no one is invincible. It gives high stakes to every action.
I hope for a continuation soon
I love that while the cyberpunk genre can be morally grey, our Protagonist, Juliet, struggles with the consequences of her actions and tries to do the least harm that she can. I also appreciate how, even with all the cybernetic limbs and computer-assisted everything, no one is invincible. It gives high stakes to every action.
I hope for a continuation soon
December 12, 2023
Incredible, riveting, interesting
This is one of the best book series I've read in a long time. I keep reading the new story as the chapters come out, and I can't get enough of this book world. The character creation and start of the story is AWESOME! I enjoy how there's always action, and it's cool to see the main character grow as she gets new cyberware.
This is one of the best book series I've read in a long time. I keep reading the new story as the chapters come out, and I can't get enough of this book world. The character creation and start of the story is AWESOME! I enjoy how there's always action, and it's cool to see the main character grow as she gets new cyberware.
August 18, 2023
A bit disappointing. Juliet has a bit of a Keystone Kops vibe for most of the novel, and you get the sense that the author doesn’t really know where the story is going. Blundering from one mess to another gets tiresome. It picks up once she gets some friends and a bit of a purpose.
September 3, 2023
Wow
Came across this book while trawling through the many litrpgs available searching for something interesting to read. I found it. This was exactly the story I was looking to read. Now to start reading the rest.
Came across this book while trawling through the many litrpgs available searching for something interesting to read. I found it. This was exactly the story I was looking to read. Now to start reading the rest.
September 9, 2023
Another good series
Like the pit fighter series and now this.. Talented writer with the ability to dig deep in character development and fluid movement to the story... Good stuff.. Highly recommend
JD Glasscock
Author of the Series Blood Brothers and the Dream
Like the pit fighter series and now this.. Talented writer with the ability to dig deep in character development and fluid movement to the story... Good stuff.. Highly recommend
JD Glasscock
Author of the Series Blood Brothers and the Dream
September 17, 2023
I absolutely adore this world! We have cybernetic enhancements and a life of intrigue. The ability to learn "muscle memory" was fascinating to me. I will keep an eye out for the next book in the series.
October 3, 2023
read on RR
A lot of the royal road editing issues and little problems are resolved in this release. Well worth a read. Not crunchy. Very much a slice of cyber life.
A lot of the royal road editing issues and little problems are resolved in this release. Well worth a read. Not crunchy. Very much a slice of cyber life.
April 7, 2025
Excellent cyberpunk. Love the word, love the intrigue, love the "system". Excited for the next book.
April 18, 2024
A great Cyberpunk story. Feeling more real than a LOT of stuff in the genre. Wish Plum Parrot was doing some writing for my favorite cyberpunk setting Shadowrun.
November 11, 2024
"Electric Angel" by Plum Parrot is a captivating and immersive cyberpunk novel that transports readers into a vividly imagined dystopian world set in the year 2107. With its compelling protagonist, intricate world-building, and thrilling plot, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a gripping sci-fi adventure.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its protagonist, Juliet Bianchi. Despite her humble beginnings as a metal cutter in a scrapyard, Juliet's bright disposition, unwavering hope, and fierce loyalty make her an instantly likeable and relatable character. As she stumbles upon a stolen AI chip and is thrust into a dangerous world of corporate corruption and shadowy conspiracies, readers can't help but root for her every step of the way.
Parrot's world-building is another standout feature of "Electric Angel." The author skilfully crafts a frightening yet familiar dystopian setting where megacorporations rule supreme, and the divide between the haves and have-nots is stark. The intricate details of this future world, from the advanced technology to the gritty, neon-lit streets, create a rich and immersive backdrop for Juliet's journey.
The plot itself is a roller coaster ride of action, suspense, and intrigue. As Juliet navigates the dangerous underworld of cybernetic dreams and virtual reality, she uncovers secrets, battles adversaries, and grapples with the immense power and responsibility that comes with her newfound AI companion, Angel. The pacing is swift, keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is the relationship between Juliet and Angel. As Juliet learns to harness the AI's capabilities, their bond deepens, adding an emotional layer to the story that elevates it beyond a simple action-packed adventure. The complex dynamic between human and machine is explored in a thought-provoking and satisfying manner.
While some readers may find Juliet's initial naivety frustrating, her character growth throughout the novel is both believable and compelling. As she faces increasingly dangerous situations and moral dilemmas, Juliet's strength, cunning, and resilience shine through, making her a truly memorable and inspiring protagonist.
"Electric Angel" also boasts a colorful cast of supporting characters, from Juliet's fiercely loyal friends to the enigmatic figures she encounters in the shadowy world of corporate espionage. Each character adds depth and richness to the story, contributing to the novel's overall sense of realism and emotional resonance.
Although the book may not delve as deeply into the LitRPG elements as some readers might expect, the cyberpunk setting and virtual reality aspects are nonetheless integral to the story and executed with skill and creativity.
In conclusion, "Electric Angel" is a thrilling and immersive cyberpunk novel that showcases Plum Parrot's talent for world-building, character development, and high-stakes storytelling. With its compelling protagonist, intricate setting, and fast-paced plot, this book is sure to captivate readers and leave them eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the Cyber Dreams series. Highly recommended for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a gripping, action-packed sci-fi adventure with heart.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its protagonist, Juliet Bianchi. Despite her humble beginnings as a metal cutter in a scrapyard, Juliet's bright disposition, unwavering hope, and fierce loyalty make her an instantly likeable and relatable character. As she stumbles upon a stolen AI chip and is thrust into a dangerous world of corporate corruption and shadowy conspiracies, readers can't help but root for her every step of the way.
Parrot's world-building is another standout feature of "Electric Angel." The author skilfully crafts a frightening yet familiar dystopian setting where megacorporations rule supreme, and the divide between the haves and have-nots is stark. The intricate details of this future world, from the advanced technology to the gritty, neon-lit streets, create a rich and immersive backdrop for Juliet's journey.
The plot itself is a roller coaster ride of action, suspense, and intrigue. As Juliet navigates the dangerous underworld of cybernetic dreams and virtual reality, she uncovers secrets, battles adversaries, and grapples with the immense power and responsibility that comes with her newfound AI companion, Angel. The pacing is swift, keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is the relationship between Juliet and Angel. As Juliet learns to harness the AI's capabilities, their bond deepens, adding an emotional layer to the story that elevates it beyond a simple action-packed adventure. The complex dynamic between human and machine is explored in a thought-provoking and satisfying manner.
While some readers may find Juliet's initial naivety frustrating, her character growth throughout the novel is both believable and compelling. As she faces increasingly dangerous situations and moral dilemmas, Juliet's strength, cunning, and resilience shine through, making her a truly memorable and inspiring protagonist.
"Electric Angel" also boasts a colorful cast of supporting characters, from Juliet's fiercely loyal friends to the enigmatic figures she encounters in the shadowy world of corporate espionage. Each character adds depth and richness to the story, contributing to the novel's overall sense of realism and emotional resonance.
Although the book may not delve as deeply into the LitRPG elements as some readers might expect, the cyberpunk setting and virtual reality aspects are nonetheless integral to the story and executed with skill and creativity.
In conclusion, "Electric Angel" is a thrilling and immersive cyberpunk novel that showcases Plum Parrot's talent for world-building, character development, and high-stakes storytelling. With its compelling protagonist, intricate setting, and fast-paced plot, this book is sure to captivate readers and leave them eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the Cyber Dreams series. Highly recommended for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a gripping, action-packed sci-fi adventure with heart.
January 19, 2025
I read a lot of books on Kindle Unlimited, and some are good, some are bad, more than a few are terrible, but a few are *great*.
This is one of the last category. My short verdict: Read it, it's awesome.
If you want more, well... (and keep in mind this is more a review of the series as a whole than this book in particular):
World-building: Very good. This is a cyberpunk story. It owes a lot to Gibson, a little to Shadowrun, and a bit to a hundred other influences, but it's not just a formulaic rehash. I don't want to spoil the series, but this is a world that exists the way it does for reasons, and it's pretty satisfying when you start to grasp what those are.
Plot: Also very good. We start out with just what it says on the cover blurb; a protagonist who is in the right place at the right time (or maybe a very wrong time) and ends up with a bit of tech she was really never meant to have. And initially we have some pretty small scale adventures as she's on the run, dodging pursuers, and trying to survive. But over time, the stakes keep rising, and we learn more about a deep mystery threatening the entire solar system. Great pacing. I'd also call out the fact that while the core plot advances and eventually resolves the way you'd hope, some small plots do not. While still a ending, not everything works out for the protagonist (or everything else), which fits the theme very nicely.
Characters: Not a huge strength (compared to, say, the world building) but still good. Three dimensional, and decent drawn; not just stock characters. And pretty good character development for the protagonist and a few other side characters.
Themes and ideas: This is a fun sci-fi book about people with superhuman reflexes fighting each other using quasi-magical powers. It's not exactly Kafka. Still, there's a bit to unpack here. I really can't say too much without spoilers, but .
Dialogue and writing: Very solid. Dialogue sounds plausible, writing style is professional, well edited. This may have been originally posted on Royal Road as a web serial, then published on Kindle Unlimited by someone going by the pseudonym Plum Parrot, but don't let that lead you astray; this is a quality piece of A-grade fiction. It's not "good for a web serial" or "good for KU", it's just good.
Recommended, in case it wasn't obvious.
This is one of the last category. My short verdict: Read it, it's awesome.
If you want more, well... (and keep in mind this is more a review of the series as a whole than this book in particular):
World-building: Very good. This is a cyberpunk story. It owes a lot to Gibson, a little to Shadowrun, and a bit to a hundred other influences, but it's not just a formulaic rehash. I don't want to spoil the series, but this is a world that exists the way it does for reasons, and it's pretty satisfying when you start to grasp what those are.
Plot: Also very good. We start out with just what it says on the cover blurb; a protagonist who is in the right place at the right time (or maybe a very wrong time) and ends up with a bit of tech she was really never meant to have. And initially we have some pretty small scale adventures as she's on the run, dodging pursuers, and trying to survive. But over time, the stakes keep rising, and we learn more about a deep mystery threatening the entire solar system. Great pacing. I'd also call out the fact that while the core plot advances and eventually resolves the way you'd hope, some small plots do not. While still a ending, not everything works out for the protagonist (or everything else), which fits the theme very nicely.
Characters: Not a huge strength (compared to, say, the world building) but still good. Three dimensional, and decent drawn; not just stock characters. And pretty good character development for the protagonist and a few other side characters.
Themes and ideas: This is a fun sci-fi book about people with superhuman reflexes fighting each other using quasi-magical powers. It's not exactly Kafka. Still, there's a bit to unpack here. I really can't say too much without spoilers, but .
Dialogue and writing: Very solid. Dialogue sounds plausible, writing style is professional, well edited. This may have been originally posted on Royal Road as a web serial, then published on Kindle Unlimited by someone going by the pseudonym Plum Parrot, but don't let that lead you astray; this is a quality piece of A-grade fiction. It's not "good for a web serial" or "good for KU", it's just good.
Recommended, in case it wasn't obvious.
January 28, 2025
This was a really interesting, futuristic sci-fi thriller with a dystopian feel. We get robots, AI crime, tech, and the all important looming corporate overlords running the show in shady ways.
So-our female lead Juliet is a scrapper in a junkyard, basically living paycheck to paycheck in her rundown apartment with little hope for the future – that is until one night her ride home doesn't show and she's left waiting outside the junkyard at night.
When a sleek looking car filled with rich looking thugs end up creating their own little crime scene Juliet is more than comfortable pretending not to have seen anything from her hiding spot--that is until one of the dying men begs her to take the AI chip in his head and disappear with it.
That advice seems more than prudent, when after connecting the AI to her port, Juliet realizes her new system is more advanced than anything she's even heard of. With a huge company on her tail looking to retrieve their lost system, Juliet and "Angel" (the new voice in her head) have to figure out a way to make some serious money and get off world as soon as they can.
This sets Juliet onto a path that is both exciting and dangerous, when she takes some advice to become a "operator" by doing some off the book jobs for quick cash....Aaand chaos really ensues.
This story all in all was pretty fast paced, interesting and high-octane and I really liked the world setting and all the characters. Will definitely read on!
So-our female lead Juliet is a scrapper in a junkyard, basically living paycheck to paycheck in her rundown apartment with little hope for the future – that is until one night her ride home doesn't show and she's left waiting outside the junkyard at night.
When a sleek looking car filled with rich looking thugs end up creating their own little crime scene Juliet is more than comfortable pretending not to have seen anything from her hiding spot--that is until one of the dying men begs her to take the AI chip in his head and disappear with it.
That advice seems more than prudent, when after connecting the AI to her port, Juliet realizes her new system is more advanced than anything she's even heard of. With a huge company on her tail looking to retrieve their lost system, Juliet and "Angel" (the new voice in her head) have to figure out a way to make some serious money and get off world as soon as they can.
This sets Juliet onto a path that is both exciting and dangerous, when she takes some advice to become a "operator" by doing some off the book jobs for quick cash....Aaand chaos really ensues.
This story all in all was pretty fast paced, interesting and high-octane and I really liked the world setting and all the characters. Will definitely read on!
August 24, 2023
3.75 stars.
This wasn't my usual read, as I prefer books that either have elements of romance, erotica, or both. However I more than liked this story. I don't come across a lot of sci-fi books with both a chick-lit feel and cybernetics as a major plot point so for me this was a unique read and I enjoyed the cyber enhanced world building.
Another aspect I enjoyed was the heroine's growth throughout the story. She started out so frustratingly naive, but as the plot progressed, her naivety and inexperience were challenged, and she became more introspective and cunning. I also enjoyed her relationship with her PIA, Angel. It was complex, in a way that made their bond believable and admirable. Her other friendships and acquaintances also added depth to the story.
There was however one significant element to the story that I didn't enjoy and that was the structure of the story itself. The first half (or more) of the story felt completely directionless. In retrospect I wonder if that was because the author wanted to set the stage for the entire series through world building and character building first, and then move the story in a certain direction. Nonetheless it was off-putting and I almost dnf'd. Glad I didn't; and all in all I'm both concerned and hopeful for what book 2 has to offer.
This wasn't my usual read, as I prefer books that either have elements of romance, erotica, or both. However I more than liked this story. I don't come across a lot of sci-fi books with both a chick-lit feel and cybernetics as a major plot point so for me this was a unique read and I enjoyed the cyber enhanced world building.
Another aspect I enjoyed was the heroine's growth throughout the story. She started out so frustratingly naive, but as the plot progressed, her naivety and inexperience were challenged, and she became more introspective and cunning. I also enjoyed her relationship with her PIA, Angel. It was complex, in a way that made their bond believable and admirable. Her other friendships and acquaintances also added depth to the story.
There was however one significant element to the story that I didn't enjoy and that was the structure of the story itself. The first half (or more) of the story felt completely directionless. In retrospect I wonder if that was because the author wanted to set the stage for the entire series through world building and character building first, and then move the story in a certain direction. Nonetheless it was off-putting and I almost dnf'd. Glad I didn't; and all in all I'm both concerned and hopeful for what book 2 has to offer.
August 31, 2025
Electric Angel is a sci-fi story that feels a little different from typical genre fare but ultimately didn’t stand out as exceptional. The book is set in a dystopian future where powerful megacorporations dominate, and the protagonist, Juliet Bianchi, rises from scraping by to wielding an advanced AI chip in a fight against corruption. The world-building is immersive, but the plot relies on familiar cyberpunk and dystopian tropes without adding much originality. Character development, especially Juliet’s growth from naïve scrapyard worker to more capable fighter, adds some emotional depth but doesn’t fully elevate the story. Overall, it is an “ok” read that offers a solid cyberpunk adventure but is overall average.
However, while the book offers some interesting ideas and character growth, especially in the main characters journey, it doesn’t break new ground in terms of originality or depth. The narrative often relies on familiar tropes and the character development doesn’t fully resonate beyond the surface level. Overall, it’s a solid read for fans of cyberpunk looking for an action-packed story but might not leave a lasting impression for those seeking something more unique or profound.
I read book one but not motivated to read any further into the series.
However, while the book offers some interesting ideas and character growth, especially in the main characters journey, it doesn’t break new ground in terms of originality or depth. The narrative often relies on familiar tropes and the character development doesn’t fully resonate beyond the surface level. Overall, it’s a solid read for fans of cyberpunk looking for an action-packed story but might not leave a lasting impression for those seeking something more unique or profound.
I read book one but not motivated to read any further into the series.
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