Silo 42: Deception

Silo Saga Universe

by Zev Paiss

Silo 42 has a secret. For almost a century, their life has been considerably different than in the other Silos. However, Silo 1 Head, Donald Keene, is growing increasingly concerned about the data he is receiving from Silo 42. The time is quickly approaching when Silo 42 may be forced to save itself from the overly controlling rules of the "Pact.".

Andrew Lathrop, Head of IT in Silo 42, is training his Shadow, Stewart Sloan, when a decision must be made to protect their future. On the scene arrives Vanessa Villanova, a beautiful female engineer, who plays a pivotol role to lead Silo 42 in its race to avoid destruction.

Deception is more than a fast-paced mystery thriller. This story also contains real and practical solutions for some of most pressing issues facing our planet around energy use, food production, personal mental and physical health, and more. If the ideas that made life in Silo 42 sustainable were applied to life outside the Wool universe, we would see a different future for our planet.

Author Zev Paiss is a consultant and futurist who teaches about sustainable solutions in his day job, and has helped dozens of intentional neighborhoods get built around the U.S. utilizing these principles. He would love to see elements from Deception get incorporated into a movie so others can see what’s possible on the big screen.

Genres: Dystopia, Fiction, Science Fiction

100 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 21, 2013

About the author

About the Author

Zev is a lifelong observer of current events and global trends, with more than 40 years of experience as a nationally recognized educator and sustainability consultant. Throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to advance practical solutions for a more resilient future championing sustainable land use, walkable communities, renewable energy, urban agriculture, low-carbon transportation, and local self-reliance.

Originally from Los Angeles, Zev has called Colorado home since 1985. In 2023, he relocated to Costa Rica, where he now consults on the development of a visionary eco-village and permaculture farm.

Zev’s emergence as an author of positive future mysteries and thrillers is a natural evolution of his lifelong values. He believes deeply in the power of protopian storytelling narratives that are both optimistic and grounded in reality to inspire meaningful change and help guide humanity toward a more hopeful, life-affirming future.

We invite you to explore his work and hope it sparks your imagination and your own vision for a better tomorrow.

Enjoy the journey!

Reviews

[Carrie A. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Over the course of the last three months, I have read every silo book I can find. I have not exhausted my list but came across this book as a more recently written book within the Wool universe. I was not impressed with this book. First, there were some inconsistencies with Hugh Howey’s cannon. If I were to write a fan fiction novel I would leave the original authors work alone. I was surprised when Howey’s characters were in this book. First, Donald Keene does not go by Donald Keene in Shift or Dust except when around characters who know his identity prior to the Democratic Convention. He is known as Troy or Thawman in Shift. Second, there are no stairs in Silo 1. This made me so frustrated I even went back and read Howey’s work to confirm it. (I can provide page numbers if asked.) They also don’t use porters. Finally, no other silo was build with elevators. Several other fan fiction novels talk about the invention of lifts but not in the same fashion as an elevator we have today. This entire novel didn’t read as a Hugh Howey fan fiction novel but more as an author who wanted to push his own interests into a new lucrative world the Silo series has created. It was entertaining if you are looking for something to read but if you are a true Wool fan I’d look elsewhere.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this as part of a Goodreads Giveaway in return for an honest review.

I really enjoyed the Wool and Silo series by Hugh Howey. I was excited to learn that there were more books in this universe. It was interesting to see how different silos evolved and handled their day-to-day lives. This was a a good addition to Hugh Howey's world.

[Patricia Redmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Silo 42: Deception, Zev Paiss transforms the Wool Universe into a place where resistance is generational and survival is sacred. This isn’t a tale of explosive rebellion it’s a story of quiet courage, careful planning, and the long arc of history bending toward justice. It’s also deeply personal, carried on the shoulders of a man who remembers, and a young apprentice who is just learning what truth means.

Ahotay is one of the most compelling characters I’ve encountered in this universe. As Head of IT, he could have followed the path of every other Silo leader: comply, deceive, survive. But he doesn’t. Guided by ancestral wisdom, he chooses a different way. His dilemma how much truth can one afford to tell when the price is annihilation is the heartbeat of the book. Watching him wrestle with this, even in the smallest choices, is fascinating.

Zev Paiss’s writing is elegant without being showy. There’s poetry in the way he describes life underground: the clean scent of fresh-tilled hemp soil, the warmth of community dinners, the tension in coded transmissions. There’s reverence for tradition, but also for innovation. Silo 42 doesn’t just remember the old ways they build new ones, from stair-powered energy to open governance rooted in consensus.

But make no mistake this is still a thriller. The shadow of Silo 1 is always present, and the stakes are brutally high. The tension builds steadily until you’re holding your breath with every report sent to Silo 1, every line of dialogue between Ahotay and his Shadow. You want them to succeed but fear what that success might cost.

For those who loved Wool for its grit, fear, and isolation, Deception offers something different: grit with grace, fear tempered with strategy, and isolation infused with legacy. This novella doesn’t just extend the Wool Universe it deepens it.

[Eliatan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Am example of an overly enthusiastic fan fic. Someone missed the show, don’t tell elements of world building. Interesting premise, poorly executed.

[wanda vahle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genius

Hugh Howey was a genius to invent the Silo series. Dev Paiss was genius to create the Silo 42 story. Wonderful Sci-Fi. I would read another of Mr Paiss's books.

[Gee Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silo 42 : Deception is a sci-fi thriller novel written by the author Zev Paiss, published in January 2024. There’s a mystery in Silo 42. In all, there are 50 Silos. Nobody is aware of the existence of the others. For centuries, they have been shielded from the harsh outside world and the aftermath of the Great War by their highly developed underground micro-universe, which allows them to live in solitude and believe they are the only humans still alive on Earth. However, life here is more eco-friendly than anywhere else. Energy sources have been upgraded. Creative, free, and open-minded people thrive here. All good things for Silo wellbeing. But this was never the Silo’s true purpose. The original builders’ “Pact” required absolute compliance with the original plan. As Donald Keene, Silo 1 Head, continues to analyze the data he receives from Silo 42, he is faced with a stark choice : either… die or thrive. Either outcome is unacceptable. The time is coming when Silo 42 will be forced to protect itself from the overbearing influence of the Pact or be destroyed. Ahotay, Lathrop, head of Silo 42, knows Silo 1 is monitoring his every move. The day will come when he will have to choose between protecting the future of his Silo and protecting the 10,000 souls that call it home. Can they outwit Donald Keene and Silo 1, and avoid certain erasure from the Silo grid? A compelling mystery, a developing romance, and a dystopian future where choices are made with the seventh generation in mind are all combined in this compelling page-turner. This science fiction thriller demonstrates the capacity of the human spirit to flourish even in the most trying situations, offering practical solutions that we can implement immediately to build a more sustainable future for humanity. The book is a quick and enjoyable read because it is only more than 100 pages long. I finished reading it in one sitting. Children between the ages of 13 and 18 should read this book. Thus, if you like reading exciting, fast-paced thrillers, you really should read this. Highly recommended from my side.

[Thema Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zev Paiss’s Silo 42: Deception takes the compelling dystopia of Hugh Howey’s Wool Universe and adds a thoughtful, morally complex layer that’s deeply human and profoundly spiritual. We enter the world of Ahotay, Head of IT in a Silo that has chosen a radically different path one that honors truth, ancestry, and a vision of a sustainable future. Unlike the grim resignation found in other Silos, Silo 42 is a place of covert hope, and that makes this story not just riveting but vital.

What sets Deception apart is the emotional and philosophical depth it brings to the genre. Paiss doesn’t just explore rebellion or survival he probes memory, ethics, and the weight of leadership in a system built on lies. Ahotay’s internal battle between keeping his people safe and challenging the controlling power of Silo 1 is relatable and haunting. His connection to his Iroquois heritage adds a rich cultural texture rarely seen in speculative fiction.

The novella’s pacing is masterful. Every chapter unfolds new secrets, raises new stakes, and draws readers into a web of intrigue and generational wisdom. Whether it’s a tense call from Silo 1, the emotionally wrenching ritual of a cleaning, or a quiet conversation in the pear orchard, Paiss knows how to balance tension with tenderness. His prose is elegant and accessible, with just enough technicality to ground us in the Wool Universe without overwhelming.

As a fan of the original Wool, I found this expansion respectful yet fearless. It dares to ask what happens when a Silo decides not to forget when it chooses memory over manipulation, democracy over dogma. It adds a new thread to the tapestry of this world and does so with precision and passion.

Silo 42: Deception is a must-read for Wool fans, but also for anyone who cherishes science fiction that believes in humanity's capacity to evolve through wisdom, not just through war. It left me moved, inspired, and hungry for more from Silo 42.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Silo 42: Deception is a riveting exploration of human potential, set against a backdrop of controlled isolation and impending danger. Zev Paiss has crafted a story that is as much about the human spirit as it is about survival, blending suspense, romance, and philosophical reflection into a cohesive and compelling narrative. The intricacies of the Silo system, with its 50 isolated communities and strict adherence to the Pact, create an environment of tension and uncertainty. Silo 42’s flourishing society challenges everything we know about human resilience, innovation, and the importance of governance that prioritizes freedom and long-term sustainability. Watching Ahotay Lathrop navigate the ethical dilemmas of leadership, knowing that any misstep could spell the end for 10,000 souls, kept me engrossed and constantly questioning what I would do in his position.

Beyond the thrilling plot, Silo 42: Deception stands out for its thought-provoking treatment of real, world issues. Paiss subtly introduces solutions for energy management, food production, and community health, making the story both entertaining and meaningful. The author also examines the delicate balance between oversight and autonomy, illustrating how overcontrol can stifle creativity, while too much freedom can bring its own risks. The suspense is expertly maintained, with carefully timed revelations that keep the reader on edge while encouraging reflection on broader societal questions. Additionally, the characters are deeply human, with strengths, flaws, and internal conflicts that make their choices resonate. I found myself emotionally invested in every outcome, cheering for ingenuity, bravery, and compassion at every turn. This book is a powerful reminder that even in restrictive circumstances, humanity can flourish if guided by intelligence, empathy, and foresight."

[White Nacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silo 42: Deception isn’t just a novella it’s a testament. A testament to the power of cultural memory, to the weight of legacy, and to what leadership truly demands. Zev Paiss delivers a story that blends the cold circuitry of surveillance with the warm roots of Indigenous wisdom and democratic stewardship. It’s the kind of book that lingers long after the final page, echoing with questions about truth, trust, and time.

Ahotay is a remarkable protagonist not a warrior or a revolutionary, but a keeper of sacred balance. He lies, yes, but to preserve something truer than the systems watching him. His role as Head of IT isn’t just about technology it’s about soulcraft. His mentorship of Stewart becomes the emotional and ethical core of the book, and every lesson they share is loaded with risk, depth, and meaning.

One of the most impressive elements is how Paiss turns tension into philosophy. The stakes are incredibly high if Silo 1 finds out what they’re doing, everyone dies. But instead of a typical rebellion narrative, we’re given something richer: a society where culture, technology, and spirituality intertwine to form a new way of being. A Silo where remembering is resistance.

From the server rooms to the orchards, the setting comes alive. There’s a tactile realism to life in Silo 42 that makes you feel every level, every harvest, every moment of ritual and revelation. You’ll smell the earth, taste the bread, and feel the electric hum of secrets buried beneath concrete and code.

If you’re looking for science fiction with a soul, Silo 42: Deception delivers in spades. It honors the Wool Universe while daring to dream bigger of a world where the future isn’t feared, but prepared for with love and care.

[Patrick Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Silo 42: Deception is nothing short of a literary triumph in modern science fiction. Zev Paiss has created a universe that is not only thrilling but intellectually and emotionally resonant, pulling the reader into a meticulously constructed world of Silos where every detail feels real and urgent. The premise is fascinating: 50 isolated Silos, each unaware of the others’ existence, surviving under the shadow of a long-past Great War, all governed by strict, almost draconian rules dictated by the original builders. But Silo 42 stands apart, thriving in a way that is both inspiring and dangerous, challenging the very foundation of the Silo system. The tension between Ahotay Lathrop’s vision for freedom and sustainability and Donald Keene’s obsessive control from Silo 1 creates a gripping narrative full of suspense and moral complexity.

What sets this book apart is not just its high-stakes intrigue but its heart. The author explores themes of human ingenuity, resilience, and the ability to thrive even under oppressive circumstances. The story is layered with intelligence and insight, showing that even in confinement, humans can innovate, care for each other, and make choices with the seventh generation in mind. The romance is delicately woven, adding emotional depth without ever detracting from the central tension. The narrative is fast-paced, yet every chapter is rich with world-building, philosophical reflection, and practical insights into sustainability, energy use, and community health. By the end, I found myself not only exhilarated by the plot twists but genuinely inspired by the vision of what humanity can achieve when creativity and cooperation are allowed to flourish. This is a novel that will stay with readers long after the final page."

[George Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

"From the first page of Silo 42: Deception, I was utterly captivated by the immersive world Zev Paiss has constructed. The concept of isolated Silos, each a self-contained universe with its own rules and societal structures, is executed with remarkable detail and originality. Silo 42, in particular, stands as a beacon of hope and possibility in a universe designed for control and conformity, thriving where others would merely survive. The tension between the Silo’s inhabitants, who are encouraged to innovate and live transparently, and the ever-watchful Silo 1 creates an atmosphere of suspense that never lets up. Every choice Ahotay Lathrop makes carries weight, not just for himself but for the thousands of lives depending on him, making the stakes feel immediate and deeply personal.

What impressed me most was the seamless integration of real-world solutions into a futuristic thriller. Concepts like sustainable energy, food security, mental health, and social cooperation are explored in ways that feel natural within the story, giving it a practical dimension rarely seen in speculative fiction. The book balances thrilling action, political intrigue, and philosophical exploration in a way that makes it both entertaining and intellectually satisfying. The prose is precise and evocative, painting vivid images of the Silos’ subterranean environments while conveying the emotional tension of characters grappling with fear, hope, and responsibility. By the time I finished, I felt not only entertained but inspired, reflecting on how the principles of sustainability and foresight portrayed in Silo 42 could be applied to our own world. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys intelligent, heart-stopping, and thought-provoking science fiction."

[Marvelous John · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Silo 42: Deception is a masterclass in science fiction storytelling, combining high-stakes suspense, meticulous world-building, and profound social commentary into one unforgettable experience. Zev Paiss has created a Silo universe that feels tangible and immediate, where the walls of isolation are both literal and symbolic. The contrast between Silo 42, a thriving hub of innovation and well-being, and the rigidly controlled Silo 1 adds layers of tension and intrigue, driving a narrative that is impossible to put down. The moral and strategic decisions Ahotay Lathrop must make are gripping, providing not just edge-of-your-seat thrills but deep ethical questions about leadership, responsibility, and the consequences of power.

One of the book’s most remarkable aspects is its integration of practical solutions into a futuristic context. From sustainable energy practices to community mental health strategies, Silo 42 becomes not only a fascinating story but a blueprint for what humans could achieve when allowed to flourish collectively. The romance adds warmth and humanity, complementing the narrative rather than detracting from it. Paiss’s prose is immersive and richly descriptive, creating a vivid sense of place and the psychological tension of characters navigating high-stakes scenarios. The pacing is flawless, balancing action, reflection, and suspense, so the story continuously evolves without losing focus. By the conclusion, I was left not only exhilarated but inspired, with a renewed appreciation for human ingenuity and the possibilities of sustainable, forward-thinking communities. Silo 42: Deception is a triumph of modern science fiction and a must-read for anyone seeking a story that entertains, challenges, and uplifts."

[Mellissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

From start to finish, Silo 42: Deception is an enthralling journey into the heart of human resilience, creativity, and ethical leadership. Zev Paiss has taken the concept of isolated Silos and elevated it into a story that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. The contrast between the thriving, innovative culture of Silo 42 and the oppressive, controlling Silo 1 adds constant tension and keeps the reader deeply engaged. Each decision Ahotay Lathrop faces is a moral and strategic challenge, and the narrative captures the weight of leadership in a way that is both realistic and compelling. I was captivated by the suspenseful moments, the intricate political dynamics, and the delicate romance that gives the story emotional depth.

The novel’s brilliance lies not only in its plot but also in its exploration of sustainability and human potential. Paiss weaves real-world solutions for energy management, mental health, and communal well-being into the story organically, making Silo 42 feel like a vision of what is possible when humans work together wisely and creatively. The writing is elegant yet accessible, with vivid imagery and complex characters who feel real and relatable. The pacing is masterful, alternating between tense, edge-of-your-seat suspense and thoughtful reflection on societal and ethical themes. By the end, I felt both entertained and inspired, thinking deeply about the importance of foresight, innovation, and empathy in leadership. Silo 42: Deception is not just a science fiction thriller, it’s a celebration of human ingenuity and the power of collective action in shaping a sustainable, thriving future."

[Barbara K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a novella based on Hugh Howey's Silo world, and even though it still takes place in that dystopian world, it's what the author Zev Paiss calls protopian, in that it encompasses a smaller world - Silo 42 - in which the residents have overcome much of the hopeless, uninformed lack of past or future orientation that most Silos seem to exist under. They remembered their past, and now envision a future, and in the meantime they've developed more sustainable ways to live within their silo.

Of course, all of this must be kept secret from the controlling overlords in Silo 1, because it's deadly for a silo to go off-Pact.

Recommended only if you've read and are familiar with Hugh Howey's Silo series.

This novella has its flaws, in typos, misspellings and inconsistencies in editing, but the story itself is rich in context. I like the diversity, and the incorporation of Native American culture and principles. If I had to live in a silo, I'd want it to be this one.

[David Beleznay · Rating 3 out of 5]

a middle of the road silo story

If you’re looking for more silo , you could read this.
It’s not great, but not horrible. The pacing is fine, the author doesn’t make up too much stuff, so it’s mostly consistent with the main novels.

But it’s lacking. It tells a lot more than shows. It pulls out too many Deus ex machina. It’s kind of the Mary sue of silos. The tension is there sort of , but everything is too pretty and nice. Story is utterly predictable

To top it off the author decides to push a 9-11 conspiracy theory about the twin towers collapse , and extol All the virtues of hemp including drug use. I almost stopped reading at that point

I don’t need my time back. But unless you really want a silo story, I’d pass on this

[Renee E.]

I’m fascinated by systems who controls them, who questions them, and who finds ways around them. Silo 42: Deception is all about that. Ahotay and his team are playing a dangerous game, and every conversation with Silo 1 had me holding my breath.

But what really surprised me was how warm this book was. The relationships, especially between Ahotay and his wife, were full of tenderness. Even the rituals around death, like the cleaning ceremonies, are treated with respect and beauty.

There’s tension here, yes, but also celebration. Zev Paiss shows us what it means to live well, even in confinement. This is dystopia with heart.

[Kanan Jain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silo 42: Deception by Zev Paiss is a positive and hopeful addition to the Silo universe, blending classic suspense with a unique focus on sustainability and practical solutions to planetary issues. While Silo and Silo 42 present a world facing environmental collapse, Deception offers a different vision of survival through cooperation, innovation, and democratic values, creating a compelling narrative for fans of Hugh Howey's series. The book is a fast-paced, well-edited thriller featuring organic character development and a hopeful outlook, making it a captivating read for those seeking a more positive dystopia.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fairly quick read. There are many derivatives to the Wool series, and I was a little apprehensive picking this one up as I’ve read various pieces of fan fiction of other series that really weren’t up to par; without having a spoiler, this was an exception as it complements the series and gives you a different perspective and “what if” to the entire series. If you’re a fan of the Wool series, I would recommend you reading this one as it was enjoyable – if you haven’t read Hugh Howey’s Wool series, read that first but come back to this one.

[Ben McCullough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant book, I loved the whole concept of how a silo can flourish when they don't have to follow Silo 1's instructions. I love how collaborative the silo becomes, and how sustainable.

*******Spoilers from here******
My only question is why Donald would think the airlock gas had killed everyone. We read a couple of pages before that Silo 1 saw the initial explosions hadn't worked because a backup camera was still functioning, wouldn't they have seen through the same camera that the silo was alive?

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have to confess that I have never heard of this 'Wool Universe' and should probably have followed this book's advice by doing the reading background before starting this one. But I didn't and still enjoyed this book. It's an interesting, compelling and relatively short story with good characters that seems to address some of our current issues.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.

[Shawne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant! The author gave enough information and detail to give a whole world whilst simultaneously building suspense and action which is seriously impressive in such a short story.

I would definitely read more by this author and this has encouraged me to finally pick up my copy of the series this is based on and actually read them.

I read an ARC of this book through Hidden Gems

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting book about life after an apocalypse but also a revolution. Ahotay had the unique duty to protect his silo, and his people, from the self-imposed leaders at Silo 1. It took the resourcefulness and curiosity of those before him that allowed Ahotay to trust himself and a few others to save their population.
While I found the story to start off a bit slow, I'm very glad to have continued reading.
I was given an advanced copy from Hidden Gems Books.

[Jaime Hale · Rating 2 out of 5]

A Bit Flat

I liked the Silo series in spite of its darkness, and was expecting to like this one even more. But the characters weren’t as well developed, and everything seemed a little too utopian. What really turned me off was a conspiracy theory being sold as “history” to the characters. This seems like something a college student would write for a class project, and not the efforts of a professional writer.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

A captivating read that at times lacks depth. Paiss attempts to tell the story of Silo 42 which is briefly mentioned in the original series. As much as I wanted to love any re-imagining of the Silo universe, I wish the author had spent more time outlining the characters. But the fast moving plot made up for the lack of coaching development. I really enjoyed seeing an entire silo defy Silo 1 and tread their own course. I'd recommend this book to any Silo fan who is craving more from this world.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are little pockets of silos where the people think they are the only ones left but there are at least 42 of them. Number 42 where life is getting better and better but the one in silos one needs to know what is going on. See what he will find out and what he will do about it all
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I was soon pulled into it all

[Caryl Lamothe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good continuation of the Silo series.

They are some areas where information doesn't match, but it doesn't really impact the story. At one point, Shadow was told to meet next day on upper agricultural floor, level 24. Next chapter, first line, they are meeting at level 42....character building was good, story flowed well. Will be reading book 2!

[Laura Mutterperl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great plot - spelling errors

As a Wooliverse reader, I loved the plot of this book. However, the various inconsistencies with the universe’s canon, and numerous spelling errors, hit me hard as a big fan of Hugh Howey’s trilogy and writing in general.

Despite this, the concept, and, for the most part, the execution of this book, was so good that it earned four stars from me.

[Bob Lamb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable Follow-up

I watched silo on TV and listen to the two other books that make up the series. This addition proved to be enjoyable going back a little time to learn more about silo 42. I wish the book had been a little longer.

[Anna Ettin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great addition to the Silo world!

I loved this. Fits like a perfect puzzle piece into the world that Howey created - there HAD to have been some discovery and variation in some of the silos, and this is a fantastic addition!

[Sondra Balston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Book

After reading the Silo trilogy I was elated to find this book continuing the adventure. It kept me enthralled and invested in the fate of beautiful Silo 42. Now on to the next in the series! Wonderful writing!