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SIN:THETICA
"...readers are treated to a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly digital world, led by a flawed yet determined protagonist whose journey is as much one of self-discovery as it is a quest for justice. Baird delivers a satisfying blend of thrills, mystery, bloodbaths, and philosophical depth."
—Booklife Review by Publishers Weekly
“A first-person bounty hunter romp under the neon lights of cyberpunk purgatory. In Hendrix, Baird has created a main character who combines the unrelenting violence and one-liners of Judge Dredd, Blade, and The Punisher. Hendrix is then thrown into a science fiction fever dream where the stakes are high and nothing is as it seems.”
—Adam Hulse, author of Below Economic Thresholds
"I’ll be very honest here, this genre is not one I’ve read previously, but Baird’s imagination, way with words, and excellent characterization plugged me into rather quickly. I loved following the main character Balaam Hendrix around futuristic NeuTokyo with his snappy dialogue, no-nonsense demeanor, and remaining humanity underneath his rugged exterior. You root for him even when he’s doing something seemingly awful. One minute you think you know what’s happening and then, well, you don’t. Give this novella a read and tell me you aren’t instantly pulled into Baird’s futuristic world; one you might not even realize you’re in as you’re twisting and turning in your own Grav."
—Vivian Kasley, horror writer published in Hot Iron and Cold Blood, Crimson Bones, and other anthologies
The Sino-Nippon war is over. It is 2113 and Japan is crushed under the might of Chinese-Allied Forces. A former Coalition Corps soldier, US Marine Balaam Hendrix is now a feared bounty hunter known as ‘The Reverend’. In the sprawl of NeuTokyo, on this lawless frontier, he must track down the rogue employee of a notorious crime lord. But, there’s a twist. His target has found protection inside a virtual reality construct and Hendrix must go cyber-side to corner his quarry. The glowing neon signs for are everywhere, and promise escape from a dystopian reality. But will it prove the means by which this hunter snares his prey, or will it be the trap he simply can’t survive?
Perfect for fans of Bladerunner and Neuromancer !
—Booklife Review by Publishers Weekly
“A first-person bounty hunter romp under the neon lights of cyberpunk purgatory. In Hendrix, Baird has created a main character who combines the unrelenting violence and one-liners of Judge Dredd, Blade, and The Punisher. Hendrix is then thrown into a science fiction fever dream where the stakes are high and nothing is as it seems.”
—Adam Hulse, author of Below Economic Thresholds
"I’ll be very honest here, this genre is not one I’ve read previously, but Baird’s imagination, way with words, and excellent characterization plugged me into rather quickly. I loved following the main character Balaam Hendrix around futuristic NeuTokyo with his snappy dialogue, no-nonsense demeanor, and remaining humanity underneath his rugged exterior. You root for him even when he’s doing something seemingly awful. One minute you think you know what’s happening and then, well, you don’t. Give this novella a read and tell me you aren’t instantly pulled into Baird’s futuristic world; one you might not even realize you’re in as you’re twisting and turning in your own Grav."
—Vivian Kasley, horror writer published in Hot Iron and Cold Blood, Crimson Bones, and other anthologies
The Sino-Nippon war is over. It is 2113 and Japan is crushed under the might of Chinese-Allied Forces. A former Coalition Corps soldier, US Marine Balaam Hendrix is now a feared bounty hunter known as ‘The Reverend’. In the sprawl of NeuTokyo, on this lawless frontier, he must track down the rogue employee of a notorious crime lord. But, there’s a twist. His target has found protection inside a virtual reality construct and Hendrix must go cyber-side to corner his quarry. The glowing neon signs for are everywhere, and promise escape from a dystopian reality. But will it prove the means by which this hunter snares his prey, or will it be the trap he simply can’t survive?
Perfect for fans of Bladerunner and Neuromancer !
142 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
3 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 8, 2024
“SIN:THETICA” by Keith Anthony Baird offers readers a gripping cyberpunk adventure set in a dystopian future. In the year 2113, Japan lies defeated under the dominance of Chinese-Allied Forces after the Sino-Nippon war. Enter Balaam Hendrix, a former Coalition Corps soldier turned feared bounty hunter known as ‘The Reverend’.
In the sprawling metropolis of NeuTokyo, Hendrix is tasked with tracking down a rogue employee of a notorious crime lord. But there’s a catch – his target has sought refuge within a virtual reality construct known as SIN:THETICA. Now, Hendrix must navigate the cyber-side to corner his elusive prey.
Baird masterfully blends elements of science fiction, cyberpunk, and noir, immersing readers in a world of glowing neon signs, lawless frontiers, and high-stakes chases. The novel’s richly imagined setting, reminiscent of classics like Bladerunner and Neuromancer, adds depth and atmosphere to the story.
As the narrative unfolds, readers are taken on a thrilling ride through the dark underbelly of NeuTokyo, where danger lurks around every corner and alliances are fleeting. The suspense builds as Hendrix delves deeper into the virtual realm of SIN:THETICA, unsure if he’ll emerge victorious or succumb to its traps.
Overall, “SIN:THETICA” is a riveting read that will appeal to fans of futuristic thrillers and cyberpunk classics. Baird’s skillful storytelling, vivid imagery, and dynamic characters make for an unforgettable journey into a world where reality and virtuality blur. Strap in for an adrenaline-fueled adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
May 23, 2024
Balaam Hendrix, ex soldier of the Sino – Nipon war is now living in the urban sprawl of Neu- Tokyo. Run by gangsters, the town has taken everything from Hendrix, including his wife and daughter. Making his living as the infamous Bounty Hunter, The Reverend, Hendrix is hired by notorious crime boss, Vargas to find an employee who has stolen from him. The case will lead him from the mean streets of Neu Tokyo, to the digital world of SIN:thetica to find his mark.
Hard Boiled, brutal and with enough profanity to make a trooper blush and run for his mummy. Keith Anthony Baird tries to keep the body count to a maximum in his new book SIN:thetica.
Throughout the book, Baird builds a world of neon lights and a grimy underworld, keeping the prose as lean as 5% mince as he focuses on the story. There is no time to bother with exposition as Hendrix shoots and explodes everyone in his way to find his mark.
Overall, this is an enjoyable sci fi thriller reminiscent of action films of the eighties that centres on the main character and his no holds barred action to get the job done. Fans of sci fi action thrillers will enjoy this story as the book races towards its end.
3.5⭐️ (rounded up to four)
Hard Boiled, brutal and with enough profanity to make a trooper blush and run for his mummy. Keith Anthony Baird tries to keep the body count to a maximum in his new book SIN:thetica.
Throughout the book, Baird builds a world of neon lights and a grimy underworld, keeping the prose as lean as 5% mince as he focuses on the story. There is no time to bother with exposition as Hendrix shoots and explodes everyone in his way to find his mark.
Overall, this is an enjoyable sci fi thriller reminiscent of action films of the eighties that centres on the main character and his no holds barred action to get the job done. Fans of sci fi action thrillers will enjoy this story as the book races towards its end.
3.5⭐️ (rounded up to four)
May 21, 2024
3.5
First of all, thank you @zooloosbooktours and the author for allowing me to read this book. It is my turn on the tour to babble!
Second, let's all take a moment to admire the cover!
This was an action packed novella, which did have quite an interesting setting. It just wasn't long enough! It would have been awesome for us to have been able to explore the world more!
I did struggle to connect with the main character. He seemed like a bit of a badass, but at the same time, he also came across like an edgy young man just coming out of his teenage years, and forcing some kind of quirkyness about himself to look cool. This is not necessarily a bad thing, I just know this book is not intended for younger readers due to its content and obviously the MC is an adult! This could have been because we didn't have alot of time to get to know him though.
Overall, this is a quick sci-fi/cyberpunk novella which does hold your attention to finish it within a few sittings. There's nothing bad about wishing you got even more and wanting to emotionally connect with a character on a deeper level.
I recommend to people who enjoy this genre, or perhaps people who want to get into this type of world but don't want to start with anything too long. It's a good example of what a cyberpunk / futuristic book is like and will likely intrigue you into reading more from this genre.
First of all, thank you @zooloosbooktours and the author for allowing me to read this book. It is my turn on the tour to babble!
Second, let's all take a moment to admire the cover!
This was an action packed novella, which did have quite an interesting setting. It just wasn't long enough! It would have been awesome for us to have been able to explore the world more!
I did struggle to connect with the main character. He seemed like a bit of a badass, but at the same time, he also came across like an edgy young man just coming out of his teenage years, and forcing some kind of quirkyness about himself to look cool. This is not necessarily a bad thing, I just know this book is not intended for younger readers due to its content and obviously the MC is an adult! This could have been because we didn't have alot of time to get to know him though.
Overall, this is a quick sci-fi/cyberpunk novella which does hold your attention to finish it within a few sittings. There's nothing bad about wishing you got even more and wanting to emotionally connect with a character on a deeper level.
I recommend to people who enjoy this genre, or perhaps people who want to get into this type of world but don't want to start with anything too long. It's a good example of what a cyberpunk / futuristic book is like and will likely intrigue you into reading more from this genre.
May 22, 2024
A digital copy of this book was supplied through Zooloo's Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
This is a super short read (about 140 pages) so works well as a great introduction to sci-fi/cyberpunk, or as a palette cleanser if you've just finished something meaty.
"They call me The Reverend, and if I'm paid to find you, then it's a given I'll be giving you your Last Rites."
It's gritty and I read a lot of the narrative with a Batman voice in my head 😅 I would've liked more worldbuilding but it's a short story so it was always going to be limited. Definitely potential for this to become a longer story, maybe with sub plots rather than a single character arc.
I enjoyed reading the Reverend's character but he was a little prone to clichès and over-use of inverted commas to show sarcasm. When he realises the job he's taken on is more personal than he expected, the intrigue really builds and we're drawn into the narrative web.
I'm on the fence about the ending, I think it'll leave some readers feeling cheated but it does leave the story wide-open for more. It was definitely a twist ending!
This is a super short read (about 140 pages) so works well as a great introduction to sci-fi/cyberpunk, or as a palette cleanser if you've just finished something meaty.
"They call me The Reverend, and if I'm paid to find you, then it's a given I'll be giving you your Last Rites."
It's gritty and I read a lot of the narrative with a Batman voice in my head 😅 I would've liked more worldbuilding but it's a short story so it was always going to be limited. Definitely potential for this to become a longer story, maybe with sub plots rather than a single character arc.
I enjoyed reading the Reverend's character but he was a little prone to clichès and over-use of inverted commas to show sarcasm. When he realises the job he's taken on is more personal than he expected, the intrigue really builds and we're drawn into the narrative web.
I'm on the fence about the ending, I think it'll leave some readers feeling cheated but it does leave the story wide-open for more. It was definitely a twist ending!
February 28, 2024
This was an okay read for me. The world and story was interesting and right up my alley. Of course with it being about a bounty hunter there is plenty of action, profanity & violence which I enjoyed throughout the book. There are warnings about this before you read the book so if any of that is not something you enjoy I would not recommend reading.
I wish it was a little bit longer but if there are more books in this universe I will be sure to check them out.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
I wish it was a little bit longer but if there are more books in this universe I will be sure to check them out.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
May 8, 2024
While this isn't my genre, it was still an excellent read. There were plenty of twists to keep me interested, and it was well-written. Okay, it was gory in places, but show me a dystopian novel, TV program, or even a current police procedural, and there is going to be a certain amount of that.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and the author's unique style.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and the author's unique style.
April 3, 2024
A beautiful mix of cyberpunk sci fi and gritty humanity.
Dropped into the futuristic streets of NeuTokyo, a dark and gritty landscape; this almost lawless world is the playground of gangsters, robbers and the morally-devoid scum of society. The rich description and complex world building instantly have us snared, smelling, seeing and tasting the futuristic, yet sordid city, as we try to stand tall, walking with Hendrix; a seasoned bounty hunter. A broken man, who straddles the line between despair and retribution. Once a soldier, a father and a whole person, but now a broken shell, his body the scared map of his downfall, and mind the shards of his former self. It takes a fearless man, or one that has given up caring, to walk the darkest alleys and to stand in the face of the blood-spattered violent underworld, in this city. But Hendrix is that man and has been for as long as he can remember. It’s his job to keep the sewer rats in check, culling to the request of his employers, and it’s a job he has become very good at, perhaps even too good…
The depth of emotional connection and character development, balanced the cyberpunk sci fi action with tangible realism, making this tale feel very human and investing us in Hendrix’s character; driving us to follow him to the very depths of his journey down a rabbit hole…
Like the glossy neon that paints the seedy city, the juxtaposition of hi-tech against human emotion, reminded me that no matter how great our technology becomes, it doesn’t necessarily change human nature.
This is one of those tales that’s streets haunt the mind and that’s message and narrative stirs the heart long after closing that last page.
Dropped into the futuristic streets of NeuTokyo, a dark and gritty landscape; this almost lawless world is the playground of gangsters, robbers and the morally-devoid scum of society. The rich description and complex world building instantly have us snared, smelling, seeing and tasting the futuristic, yet sordid city, as we try to stand tall, walking with Hendrix; a seasoned bounty hunter. A broken man, who straddles the line between despair and retribution. Once a soldier, a father and a whole person, but now a broken shell, his body the scared map of his downfall, and mind the shards of his former self. It takes a fearless man, or one that has given up caring, to walk the darkest alleys and to stand in the face of the blood-spattered violent underworld, in this city. But Hendrix is that man and has been for as long as he can remember. It’s his job to keep the sewer rats in check, culling to the request of his employers, and it’s a job he has become very good at, perhaps even too good…
The depth of emotional connection and character development, balanced the cyberpunk sci fi action with tangible realism, making this tale feel very human and investing us in Hendrix’s character; driving us to follow him to the very depths of his journey down a rabbit hole…
Like the glossy neon that paints the seedy city, the juxtaposition of hi-tech against human emotion, reminded me that no matter how great our technology becomes, it doesn’t necessarily change human nature.
This is one of those tales that’s streets haunt the mind and that’s message and narrative stirs the heart long after closing that last page.
June 10, 2024
I honestly don't think I've ever read a book like this one - described as sci-fi/cyberpunk, this was a great first read for me and something completely different to my usual reads.
I love to stretch my reading genres every now and then to hold those slumps at bay and love it even more when I find something like this, that I really enjoyed reading.
I was instantly drawn to the front cover with it's bold neon image and one that made me think of my boys who love gaming!
Set in a dystopian Tokyo, not that far into the future, we follow Hendrix - or 'The Reverend' as he's known - on a mission to track down a rogue employee by a notorious crime boss - but things take a futuristic turn when his target disappears into a virtual reality world.
I cannot profess to understanding the ins and outs of technology - but this reminded me a little of Ready Player One (which I loved) and maybe a little further back, Tron or Balderunner.
Taking the VR world out of things, this also gave me Punisher vibes.
I love a flawed main character where it's a little ambiguous whether I should be rooting for them and hoping they fail!?
This was a super short read - at just under 150 pages - and so the world building didn't feel too clunky and I'm sure that there is scope for much deeper development should this become a series - or become a full novel in the future - for me though, I actually loved this short length.
The writing was gritty and brutal but this fitted the theme and plot perfectly.
I found this exciting and full of suspense - which had me racing to the end.
Leaving us with a nice twist that definitely hints at a possible sequel or series.
One that I'll be looking out for...
I love to stretch my reading genres every now and then to hold those slumps at bay and love it even more when I find something like this, that I really enjoyed reading.
I was instantly drawn to the front cover with it's bold neon image and one that made me think of my boys who love gaming!
Set in a dystopian Tokyo, not that far into the future, we follow Hendrix - or 'The Reverend' as he's known - on a mission to track down a rogue employee by a notorious crime boss - but things take a futuristic turn when his target disappears into a virtual reality world.
I cannot profess to understanding the ins and outs of technology - but this reminded me a little of Ready Player One (which I loved) and maybe a little further back, Tron or Balderunner.
Taking the VR world out of things, this also gave me Punisher vibes.
I love a flawed main character where it's a little ambiguous whether I should be rooting for them and hoping they fail!?
This was a super short read - at just under 150 pages - and so the world building didn't feel too clunky and I'm sure that there is scope for much deeper development should this become a series - or become a full novel in the future - for me though, I actually loved this short length.
The writing was gritty and brutal but this fitted the theme and plot perfectly.
I found this exciting and full of suspense - which had me racing to the end.
Leaving us with a nice twist that definitely hints at a possible sequel or series.
One that I'll be looking out for...
June 1, 2024
I should start by saying that I love cyberpunk (not just the videogame but the genre), I also love noir fiction and gritty fiction. So the fact that Baird combined all these with a touch of sci-fi was always going to be a win for me. I loved the idea of the jaded Bounty Hunter Hendrix. You also get a bit of a western too (a sci-fi western if that’s a thing!)
One thing to note is that is the gritty, dark and at times a bit depressing but that’s what makes it a hit (for me anyway). The story is dark, the world that the characters live in is worse and it all makes for one hell of an action packed novella.
I got a lot of Blade Runner vibes but this was most definitely it’s own tale. I really hope that we see more of Hendrix and more from Baird because I could not put this one down and will be getting a physical copy asap. If you love cyberpunk and noir this is for you.
One thing to note is that is the gritty, dark and at times a bit depressing but that’s what makes it a hit (for me anyway). The story is dark, the world that the characters live in is worse and it all makes for one hell of an action packed novella.
I got a lot of Blade Runner vibes but this was most definitely it’s own tale. I really hope that we see more of Hendrix and more from Baird because I could not put this one down and will be getting a physical copy asap. If you love cyberpunk and noir this is for you.
May 26, 2024
Initially I saw this and the cover made me think scifi which really isn't my genre.
Having given it a go, I found I flew through it. It's quite an easy read anyway, but it's nothing like I expected.
It's set around 100 years in the future. Full of futuristic technology which on the whole sounded awesome.
Hendrix, known as The Reverend is ex army. He came back and survived an attack that meant he's 50% metal. He takes on jobs as a hit man to survive.
Despite him being really cold, not caring about the people he kills or the rules he breaks and people he pushes aside to get what he wants, I actually really liked him. He didn't have a soft side.
When he gets on with the top gangster of the city, trying to chase one of his missing "ghosts" and some item he's stolen, The Reverend knows its a mistake. Referring to it as a nest of vipers.
When he finds out what he has to do it's nothing like he expected.
This is a short book and it's an easy read. There isn't a lot of futuristic terminology or anything. The prose is very short and snappy. No wasted words here.
I love the idea of, and am equally terrified by SINTHETICA. It's clever but feels like something we shouldn't be messing with.
I hope fans of SciFi and cyberpunk give this a go. I really really enjoyed it.
Having given it a go, I found I flew through it. It's quite an easy read anyway, but it's nothing like I expected.
It's set around 100 years in the future. Full of futuristic technology which on the whole sounded awesome.
Hendrix, known as The Reverend is ex army. He came back and survived an attack that meant he's 50% metal. He takes on jobs as a hit man to survive.
Despite him being really cold, not caring about the people he kills or the rules he breaks and people he pushes aside to get what he wants, I actually really liked him. He didn't have a soft side.
When he gets on with the top gangster of the city, trying to chase one of his missing "ghosts" and some item he's stolen, The Reverend knows its a mistake. Referring to it as a nest of vipers.
When he finds out what he has to do it's nothing like he expected.
This is a short book and it's an easy read. There isn't a lot of futuristic terminology or anything. The prose is very short and snappy. No wasted words here.
I love the idea of, and am equally terrified by SINTHETICA. It's clever but feels like something we shouldn't be messing with.
I hope fans of SciFi and cyberpunk give this a go. I really really enjoyed it.
May 11, 2024
Received as a review copy from Booksirens, this is an honest review. A wild, visual and visceral adventure that grabbed myself right from the beginning. Balaam Hendrix is a man haunted by the wars he was once involved in a Japan ruined by all of destruction yet arose out of it to be a place beautiful and so very dangerous at the same time. Hendrix is a bounty hunter you don't want coming after you a he does whatever has to be done for the job to be completed. The job that Hendrix gets himself forced to do challenges all he understands of this futuristic city he calls home... leaving this man very much a different person at the end.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
May 10, 2024
Well, this book kept pulling out new twists just when you figured you had the plot solved. The characters are complex, but I feel like they are part of an ongoing story arc, which is fine. Many are given plenty of background so you don't feel left out. This book is a cross between Bladrunner and The Matrix. Is it live, or are you part of the code? This is Science Fiction at its finest, it was a pleasure to read. The pacing did lag occasionally, but the world is complex, so you can forgive the author on this point. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2024
3.5⭐
This is a very different genre for me to read, so I was really looking forward to delving into it and seeing what I thought.
I enjoyed this book, I felt like the writing style was very unique and made you see the world of future NeuTokyo in a great way. The main character of Hendrix was very well written, I enjoyed his development throughout the book, I like how we got tiny snippets of his life in between him doing his hitman type duties. I feel like because you were on the journey with Hendrix, we were able to learn his personality more which meant I didn't mind too much when he was doing things he shouldn't have been doing🙈
I am glad that I decided to give this one a go, I personally enjoyed the fact it was a shorter book, but it still had more than enough storyline going on to make it worthwhile. A lot of great action was packed into it, so I never felt like the story had simmered down.
The book isn't too violent, but can be graphic in certain scenes so I would definitely check the trigger warnings before reading!
This is a very different genre for me to read, so I was really looking forward to delving into it and seeing what I thought.
I enjoyed this book, I felt like the writing style was very unique and made you see the world of future NeuTokyo in a great way. The main character of Hendrix was very well written, I enjoyed his development throughout the book, I like how we got tiny snippets of his life in between him doing his hitman type duties. I feel like because you were on the journey with Hendrix, we were able to learn his personality more which meant I didn't mind too much when he was doing things he shouldn't have been doing🙈
I am glad that I decided to give this one a go, I personally enjoyed the fact it was a shorter book, but it still had more than enough storyline going on to make it worthwhile. A lot of great action was packed into it, so I never felt like the story had simmered down.
The book isn't too violent, but can be graphic in certain scenes so I would definitely check the trigger warnings before reading!
May 30, 2024
This was my first dip into a sci-fi book and I'm glad it was a novella. I'm not 100% sure how I feel about this genre yet.
I will say, I didn't really connect with our MC. He seemed to swear... a lot, and just acted like a moody teenager to me. It was hard to get into his mindset and see the book thru his eyes when I just didn't feel anything towards him. And yes, you get some background on him, and why hes the way he is.
If you guys really like sci-fi and want a short, easy to follow read, this is great. I wish there was a bit more world building, at times I felt lost what was going on, but its wonderful for a newbie like I am!
I will say, I didn't really connect with our MC. He seemed to swear... a lot, and just acted like a moody teenager to me. It was hard to get into his mindset and see the book thru his eyes when I just didn't feel anything towards him. And yes, you get some background on him, and why hes the way he is.
If you guys really like sci-fi and want a short, easy to follow read, this is great. I wish there was a bit more world building, at times I felt lost what was going on, but its wonderful for a newbie like I am!
May 29, 2024
This was a very interesting read which reminded me slightly of Ready Player One. I enjoyed the futuristic aspect and the writing made a fairly complex plot easy to follow. The virtual world that Balaam Hendrix has to enter to find his target is well constructed within the book. Balaam is an interesting character who I was never sure I wanted to succeed in his mission or not. A perfect read for those with a love of technology!
May 26, 2024
Chromium Teardrops. They’re a neural magnet, a physical connector to anchor the minds of those who choose to undergo immersion in the alternate reality that is SIN:THETICA. It’s not a bad idea, within the lawless urban sprawl that is NeuTokyo—but for Hendrix, it’s one almighty headache.
They call him ‘The Reverend’, and he’s the soul of efficiency at performing the Last Rites. His own life, and the lives of those dear to him, were taken from him for no apparent reason. Now he takes the lives of others, a bounty hunter, for reasons of financial necessity. There are no second chances for his targets—one shot, and it’s over. His latest commission is somewhat different though, hence the pain between his ears.
Treece, an employee, has stolen something of great value from his boss Vargas, who’s tasked Hendrix to bring him in alive. Treece is hiding out though, immersed in SIN:THETICA, and the only way for Hendrix to get to him is to undergo voluntary immersion into the programme—and he’s not keen. He doesn’t trust Baptiste, who runs the programme, but if he doesn’t deliver what’s been demanded Vargas won’t be pleased—and he’s not a man you want to displease.
Hendrix is caught between a rock and a hard place. It looks like he’ll have to take his chances with immersion—but when he continues the chase in the alternate reality within which he finds himself, something doesn’t add up. From the point of this realisation, he’s not the only one experiencing a ‘what the hell just happened’ moment—this reader’s pretty confused too, and I’m betting I’m not the only one, although it’s a deliberate ploy on the part of the author. Explanations are given, but they need a bit of thinking about.
I enjoyed this story—up to a point. The writing style was economical, cut-back, the setting of NeuTokyo effectively drawn in terse lines as laconic as the character of Hendrix. The meaning of the city jargon—Grav, No-Glo—is apparent from the context, without heavy-handed explanations. A few of the latter wouldn’t go amiss though, in the dénouement. Deep—as in immersion.
They call him ‘The Reverend’, and he’s the soul of efficiency at performing the Last Rites. His own life, and the lives of those dear to him, were taken from him for no apparent reason. Now he takes the lives of others, a bounty hunter, for reasons of financial necessity. There are no second chances for his targets—one shot, and it’s over. His latest commission is somewhat different though, hence the pain between his ears.
Treece, an employee, has stolen something of great value from his boss Vargas, who’s tasked Hendrix to bring him in alive. Treece is hiding out though, immersed in SIN:THETICA, and the only way for Hendrix to get to him is to undergo voluntary immersion into the programme—and he’s not keen. He doesn’t trust Baptiste, who runs the programme, but if he doesn’t deliver what’s been demanded Vargas won’t be pleased—and he’s not a man you want to displease.
Hendrix is caught between a rock and a hard place. It looks like he’ll have to take his chances with immersion—but when he continues the chase in the alternate reality within which he finds himself, something doesn’t add up. From the point of this realisation, he’s not the only one experiencing a ‘what the hell just happened’ moment—this reader’s pretty confused too, and I’m betting I’m not the only one, although it’s a deliberate ploy on the part of the author. Explanations are given, but they need a bit of thinking about.
I enjoyed this story—up to a point. The writing style was economical, cut-back, the setting of NeuTokyo effectively drawn in terse lines as laconic as the character of Hendrix. The meaning of the city jargon—Grav, No-Glo—is apparent from the context, without heavy-handed explanations. A few of the latter wouldn’t go amiss though, in the dénouement. Deep—as in immersion.
May 30, 2024
Here is my review of Sin:thetica by Keith Anthony Baird
This book has a very futuristic feel about it and the writing reflects that. The story covers a feared bounty hunter called ‘The Reverend’, his real name is Balaam Hendrix and he used to be in the US Marines where he was patched up after being hurt pretty badly. He turned to bounty hunting after losing his wife and daughter in a house fire that was arson. He is set on revenge. In this story, he takes on his worst job yet which means he goes searching for an ex-employee of a notorious crime lord who stole something from him. He has gone to ground in SIN:THETICA and if The Reverend wants him, he needs to follow him in. This was an intriguing story from the start and only got more interesting when the plot thickened. This made it a very exciting read and one that led you to see what the author’s imagination could do when it was put into written word. It was pretty wicked. The plotting was excellent and the writing was superb. You just have to let your imagination go wild and into the twenty second century. Think James Bond meets Blade Runner.
Blurb :
The Sino-Nippon war is over. It is 2113 and Japan is crushed under the might of Chinese-Allied Forces. A former Coalition Corps soldier, US Marine Balaam Hendrix is now a feared bounty hunter known as ‘The Reverend’. In the sprawl of NeuTokyo, on this lawless frontier, he must track down the rogue employee of a notorious crime lord. But, there’s a twist. His target has found protection inside a virtual reality construct and Hendrix must go cyber-side to corner his quarry. The glowing neon signs for SIN:THETICA are everywhere, and promise escape from a dystopian reality. But will it prove the means by which this hunter snares his prey, or will it be the trap he simply can’t survive?
This book has a very futuristic feel about it and the writing reflects that. The story covers a feared bounty hunter called ‘The Reverend’, his real name is Balaam Hendrix and he used to be in the US Marines where he was patched up after being hurt pretty badly. He turned to bounty hunting after losing his wife and daughter in a house fire that was arson. He is set on revenge. In this story, he takes on his worst job yet which means he goes searching for an ex-employee of a notorious crime lord who stole something from him. He has gone to ground in SIN:THETICA and if The Reverend wants him, he needs to follow him in. This was an intriguing story from the start and only got more interesting when the plot thickened. This made it a very exciting read and one that led you to see what the author’s imagination could do when it was put into written word. It was pretty wicked. The plotting was excellent and the writing was superb. You just have to let your imagination go wild and into the twenty second century. Think James Bond meets Blade Runner.
Blurb :
The Sino-Nippon war is over. It is 2113 and Japan is crushed under the might of Chinese-Allied Forces. A former Coalition Corps soldier, US Marine Balaam Hendrix is now a feared bounty hunter known as ‘The Reverend’. In the sprawl of NeuTokyo, on this lawless frontier, he must track down the rogue employee of a notorious crime lord. But, there’s a twist. His target has found protection inside a virtual reality construct and Hendrix must go cyber-side to corner his quarry. The glowing neon signs for SIN:THETICA are everywhere, and promise escape from a dystopian reality. But will it prove the means by which this hunter snares his prey, or will it be the trap he simply can’t survive?
July 4, 2024
Set in the future we meet Balaam Hendrix, a former Marine who’s done his time and has the scars to show for it.
Hendrix is a now feared bounty hunter…no one can escape his justice once he’s got them in his sight..
An interesting offer comes knocking on his door.. and although it screams “danger” Hendrix can’t turn down the money..and he’s smart too.. it might be more of an issue for him if he ignores the offer so he might as well make some money out of the situation.
What’s the job you might ask.. well he’s got to track someone down…and keep them alive long enough for his employer to mete out justice.. not his typical job.. he’s usually a shoot first kind of guy but Hendrix can manage it.
Then the twist hits.. the mark is protected.. protected by virtual reality.. if he’s brought out too soon he would die and that wouldn’t please his employer so Hendrix heads into the cyber world to track the man down.
Now this is where the twists really come.. there’s lots of action showing the skill Hendrix has but at the same time the cogs are turning and Hendrix knows things aren’t adding up.. but why? What’s the end game here… it just doesn’t make sense.
The ending left me shocked but quite in awe too.. it was a real curveball and a damn good one too.
I know I bang on about pace and flow but damn.. SIN:THETICA nails it! There’s never time to get bored or tired.. it’s exciting and engaging and the story flows naturally.
And do you want to know the craziest thing? You get all of that for less than £1 on kindle!! Like how can you say no to that??
Super 5* read!
Hendrix is a now feared bounty hunter…no one can escape his justice once he’s got them in his sight..
An interesting offer comes knocking on his door.. and although it screams “danger” Hendrix can’t turn down the money..and he’s smart too.. it might be more of an issue for him if he ignores the offer so he might as well make some money out of the situation.
What’s the job you might ask.. well he’s got to track someone down…and keep them alive long enough for his employer to mete out justice.. not his typical job.. he’s usually a shoot first kind of guy but Hendrix can manage it.
Then the twist hits.. the mark is protected.. protected by virtual reality.. if he’s brought out too soon he would die and that wouldn’t please his employer so Hendrix heads into the cyber world to track the man down.
Now this is where the twists really come.. there’s lots of action showing the skill Hendrix has but at the same time the cogs are turning and Hendrix knows things aren’t adding up.. but why? What’s the end game here… it just doesn’t make sense.
The ending left me shocked but quite in awe too.. it was a real curveball and a damn good one too.
I know I bang on about pace and flow but damn.. SIN:THETICA nails it! There’s never time to get bored or tired.. it’s exciting and engaging and the story flows naturally.
And do you want to know the craziest thing? You get all of that for less than £1 on kindle!! Like how can you say no to that??
Super 5* read!
February 26, 2024
Although I feel bad giving this a 1 star rating, this book was very hard to sit through. Even though the content warnings listed Profanity… it was wildly unnecessary to the main character “The Reverend”. It made him look completely incompetent rather than the unhinged bounty hunter I believe the author was going for. On each page there were at least 2-3 F-bombs and on one page I was taken back by “dropping the kids off at the pool”. I think there are many better ways to make the main character look edgy and get his personality across without hurling that much profanity. I curse a lot myself, but I was shocked by the quantity of language. Although minor, animal cruelty should be listed as a trigger warning because of what is listed about the pit bull at one point. Again minor, but should be noted.
The stakes did feel high and the idea of SIN:THETICA is cool for sure, but nothing about this future tech felt original. It felt as though a bunch of futuristic capabilities that we have seen before have been mashed together to make this novel.
There were also noted tone changes between characters as though depending on their intelligence would depend on how they presented themselves.
My biggest complaint however: there was very limited world building. If this book was longer, a bit more refined, and a gave me a bit more to invest into the characters I honestly could’ve given it 3-4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
The stakes did feel high and the idea of SIN:THETICA is cool for sure, but nothing about this future tech felt original. It felt as though a bunch of futuristic capabilities that we have seen before have been mashed together to make this novel.
There were also noted tone changes between characters as though depending on their intelligence would depend on how they presented themselves.
My biggest complaint however: there was very limited world building. If this book was longer, a bit more refined, and a gave me a bit more to invest into the characters I honestly could’ve given it 3-4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
April 3, 2024
The Review
The almost rhythmic, haunting atmosphere was immediately the first thing that this reader noticed. The gritty and dark future of NeuTokyo against the cyberspace world, which the protagonist finds, adds excellent contrast and texture to the world’s setting. The incredible imagery found due to the author’s descriptive writing style brought this city to life, as did the rich characters that populated this world.
Yet the grim character development and large-scale world-building made this story so unique. The novel gives very human and realistic motivations for these futuristic characters. It allows a healthy balance of emotional pull and sci-fi action to keep the reader invested in the story. The mythos of this future and the world within the world concept were fantastic narrative devices to help keep the reader driven to move deeper into the lore of this universe.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, entertaining, and richly told, author Keith Anthony Baird’s “SIN:THETICA” is a must-read sci-fi novel. The imagery found throughout this book brought a healthy balance of films such as The Crow, Blade Runner, Robocop, and more. The dynamics found within the novel and the visceral take on the future made this a compelling read.
The almost rhythmic, haunting atmosphere was immediately the first thing that this reader noticed. The gritty and dark future of NeuTokyo against the cyberspace world, which the protagonist finds, adds excellent contrast and texture to the world’s setting. The incredible imagery found due to the author’s descriptive writing style brought this city to life, as did the rich characters that populated this world.
Yet the grim character development and large-scale world-building made this story so unique. The novel gives very human and realistic motivations for these futuristic characters. It allows a healthy balance of emotional pull and sci-fi action to keep the reader invested in the story. The mythos of this future and the world within the world concept were fantastic narrative devices to help keep the reader driven to move deeper into the lore of this universe.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, entertaining, and richly told, author Keith Anthony Baird’s “SIN:THETICA” is a must-read sci-fi novel. The imagery found throughout this book brought a healthy balance of films such as The Crow, Blade Runner, Robocop, and more. The dynamics found within the novel and the visceral take on the future made this a compelling read.
March 4, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This action-packed novella, with its unusual setting, intrigued me, but its short scope didn't allow me to fully explore the potential of the world it offers. Expanding the story would undoubtedly be beneficial.
I recommend it to fans of the genre or those who want to start with cyberpunk but prefer shorter works. This novella provides a good introduction to the futuristic world and can serve as inspiration for further reading in this genre.
I didn't immediately connect with the main character. Although he came across as a fearless hero, he occasionally gave the impression of a youthful rebel trying to stand out at any cost. It's possible that the lack of space for character development was the cause of this feeling, especially considering that the target audience is not younger readers.
Overall, this is a fast-paced sci-fi/cyberpunk novella that will keep the reader's attention until the end. Although I missed a deeper connection with the main character and longed for a more expansive world, the book as a whole did not disappoint.
The cover is truly impressive BTW.
This action-packed novella, with its unusual setting, intrigued me, but its short scope didn't allow me to fully explore the potential of the world it offers. Expanding the story would undoubtedly be beneficial.
I recommend it to fans of the genre or those who want to start with cyberpunk but prefer shorter works. This novella provides a good introduction to the futuristic world and can serve as inspiration for further reading in this genre.
I didn't immediately connect with the main character. Although he came across as a fearless hero, he occasionally gave the impression of a youthful rebel trying to stand out at any cost. It's possible that the lack of space for character development was the cause of this feeling, especially considering that the target audience is not younger readers.
Overall, this is a fast-paced sci-fi/cyberpunk novella that will keep the reader's attention until the end. Although I missed a deeper connection with the main character and longed for a more expansive world, the book as a whole did not disappoint.
The cover is truly impressive BTW.
April 8, 2024
Sin:Thetica by Keith Anthony Baird is a great military like novel with a lot of fighting, murder, and chaos attached. Think of Jason Bourne movies with the AI involved. In a flash, the world you once knew is gone and with it goes the mercy, freedom, and hope once there. It is a heartbreaking read from the start. Sin is everywhere. The book also reminds me of Sin City due to the dark, murderous, sinful themes. For those who love the dark and deadly this is a must read. Once the dialogue starts, the book's pace picks up and that's where it gets more interesting. Keith Anthony Baird has a different writing than I am familiar with yet, once you get so far into the book, it's hard to stop reading. You almost need to know what happens next and how the sole character survive. Needing to know how his story ends...will consume the reader.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
June 15, 2024
I loved the look of this artwork and also the Blurb plus at 129 pages. It's a gritty little story to read between books!
The book has serious cyberpunk vibes with a dark, broody main character called Balaam Hendrix.
He is a bounty hunter and takes on jobs across a somewhat lawless new city in exchange for payment. He really doesn't care.
The story focuses on Hendrix being hired by an individual who wishes him to track down a guy. Hendrix's great tracking skills locates him pretty easily... but there's a small hitch.
The guy now resides with virtual reality, leaving Hendrix with a tough choice to make - should he take his chase to the VR world?
The characters are intriguing, as is the overall city and landscape. Keith has some really intriguing inventions within the Novella, too!
That ending, though, Keith...!!!!!
It's a great book, and if you love Sci-Fi Cyberpunk, then I'm certain you will enjoy this as much as I did! I hope to see more of Hendrix!
The book has serious cyberpunk vibes with a dark, broody main character called Balaam Hendrix.
He is a bounty hunter and takes on jobs across a somewhat lawless new city in exchange for payment. He really doesn't care.
The story focuses on Hendrix being hired by an individual who wishes him to track down a guy. Hendrix's great tracking skills locates him pretty easily... but there's a small hitch.
The guy now resides with virtual reality, leaving Hendrix with a tough choice to make - should he take his chase to the VR world?
The characters are intriguing, as is the overall city and landscape. Keith has some really intriguing inventions within the Novella, too!
That ending, though, Keith...!!!!!
It's a great book, and if you love Sci-Fi Cyberpunk, then I'm certain you will enjoy this as much as I did! I hope to see more of Hendrix!
May 24, 2024
The year is 2113 and the Sino-Nippon war is over. Bounty hunter Balaam Hendrix aka The Reverend is in futuristic NeuTokyo. He is a no nonsense, former military man, who lost his family, and he is trying to survive, get revenge, and escape this dystopian reality. Balan Hendrix is approached by a very powerful drug lord and is asked to track someone down.
This short novel is full of action (and some profanity but it suits Hendrix’s attitude). This is my first read in a cyberpunk, futuristic world. This cinematic world is full of neon signs, futurist weapons and people in a near lawless world. There is not a lot of fluff in this read. It gets moving and stays moving until the very end.
This short novel is full of action (and some profanity but it suits Hendrix’s attitude). This is my first read in a cyberpunk, futuristic world. This cinematic world is full of neon signs, futurist weapons and people in a near lawless world. There is not a lot of fluff in this read. It gets moving and stays moving until the very end.
March 24, 2024
I suffered so you don't have to. There was so much potential in this book - the synopsis sounded so good, and it intrigued me so much.
It felt like a self-insert into a John Wick-styled with a neon Tokyo setting. There's an overuse of 'quoting feelings' and 'trying to emphasize a point' when it's not needed. The trigger warnings are located at the back of the book as well; so if you want to read, please look at the triggers in the back before reading.
Personally, I would not recommend this novella. It felt too rough to recommend to anyone. The concept is fascinating, just not well executed.
It felt like a self-insert into a John Wick-styled with a neon Tokyo setting. There's an overuse of 'quoting feelings' and 'trying to emphasize a point' when it's not needed. The trigger warnings are located at the back of the book as well; so if you want to read, please look at the triggers in the back before reading.
Personally, I would not recommend this novella. It felt too rough to recommend to anyone. The concept is fascinating, just not well executed.
May 25, 2024
I had this on pre-order because the author is on my top ten favourites list, so I knew the book would likely be brilliant. It was. Although, I feel like I've been given a glimpse at the true future of humanity, and it's bleak ( I expect no less). This is also the kind of story Philip K Dick could have come up with. The writing style isn't the same, but it had that mind bending/ what is reality feel. I enjoy books that make the reader think too. It reminded me a little bit of Bladerunner, and brought to mind all the books about futurism and simulation theory I've been reading. It's clever, this one and really impressive.
August 22, 2024
Balaam Hendrix, aka 'The Reverend', is a grim, unrelenting bounty hunter scything a bloody path through a world that evokes Blade Runner, Dark City, 2000AD, and Neuromancer: 'Every person I waste I use as another stone to heap on the burial plot of my past.' Hard-boiled, terse, violent SF noir - and great fun!
May 25, 2024
Exceptional.
What first starts as say a Grimdark version within a true Cyberpunk setting soon turns into a Shutter Island vs The Matrix scenario that delivers a Sucker Punch. Loved it.
What first starts as say a Grimdark version within a true Cyberpunk setting soon turns into a Shutter Island vs The Matrix scenario that delivers a Sucker Punch. Loved it.
July 16, 2024
Half of this book is really great...then it just becomes rushed to get to the ending. Would have liked to see this as a full novel instead of novella.
June 15, 2024
My Thoughts: I will be honest with this one from the start, I’m not really a fan of cyberpunk or sci-fi, but something about the premise of this one intrigued me and the cover sealed the deal for me!
I won’t pretend that I knew exactly what was going on straight away, so it threw me off to begin with, but I ended up really enjoying it!
A bounty Hunter sent into an alternate reality to get his target is definitely not something I’ve read about before, it was fast paced, full of violence and very twisty.
As a main character Hendrix seemed to be full of angst but really lost and still trying to find his place in this ‘new life’ of his and part of me would have loved that to be explored a little more.
The story was really short which definitely added to the “fast paced’ feel, it wrapped up pretty well whilst also leaving some unanswered questions too, which left me wondering if this is going to be part of a series?
One that is definitely worth a read.
🐧🩷
I won’t pretend that I knew exactly what was going on straight away, so it threw me off to begin with, but I ended up really enjoying it!
A bounty Hunter sent into an alternate reality to get his target is definitely not something I’ve read about before, it was fast paced, full of violence and very twisty.
As a main character Hendrix seemed to be full of angst but really lost and still trying to find his place in this ‘new life’ of his and part of me would have loved that to be explored a little more.
The story was really short which definitely added to the “fast paced’ feel, it wrapped up pretty well whilst also leaving some unanswered questions too, which left me wondering if this is going to be part of a series?
One that is definitely worth a read.
🐧🩷
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