Undermind

by Zofia von Huck

When Kristoph’s home Corporation is destroyed by unknown terrorists, he seeks out the Underground Network, an organisation intent on undermining the power of the Mega-Corportations, hoping to find answers. There, he meets the alluring Krystie, who promises to help him get to the bottom of the conspiracy. But as he gets to know her, he begins to question her motives. Can he trust her, or is she leading him to his downfall?

Undermind is an introduction to the undergrounder series. It includes the following reverse age gap, instant attraction, friends to lovers, colleagues to lovers, forbidden love, a black cat fmc, and golden retriever mmc. Fans of the Hunger Games, and Divergent will enjoy it, as will fans of the Resident Evil franchise, and films such as Minority Report.

130 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2024

About the author

Zofia was born in Poland, lived in Mexico, grew up in New Zealand, and now lives in Sydney with her partner, two children, and four cats. She studied screenwriting, and after graduating wrote and directed a stage play Super Creeps, that played to sold out audiences in the Wellington Fringe Festival. She works at a prominent Australian university providing teaching support to students. When she is not working or writing, she is a breastfeeding counsellor, and sometimes fosters kittens.

Reviews

[Stephanie Gibbens · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short novella to ease the reader into the new world the author has created for a larger series.

The world is set in a city that was destroyed by a large comet crash which forced the surviving citizens to join Corporations to survive or be left out on the streets to fend for themselves.

Kristoph is a genius 18 year old man whose family was just killed in a bombing at the Corporation his family was a part of. He is determined to find out who was behind the attack at any cost.

Kristoph teams up with an underground group of people to learn more about what happened and ends up falling for his beautiful and older new comrade.

They shared several intimate moments, most of which are on page, which happen to be his first experiences.

If you like action and romance with a tech savy lead and a strong female love interest, this novella is for you.

[Zowie Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Undermind pulled me in right from the beginning. When Kristoph’s home corporation is wiped out by mysterious terrorists, his search for answers leads him into the Underground Network—a group determined to take down the Mega-Corporations. It’s here he meets Krystie, a mysterious and alluring figure who promises to help him uncover the truth.

The story really shines in the way it builds tension between Kris and Krystie. Their relationship feels genuine but layered with doubt, and I found myself constantly wondering—can he really trust her, or is she leading him into danger? The mix of conspiracy, action, and slow-burning suspense kept me hooked, and the cliffhanger ending left me hungry for the next part.

A gripping read that balances mystery, character depth, and just the right amount of intrigue.

[Nadine-Sue Sargent · Rating 4 out of 5]

intriguing sci-fi romance. it's a novella acting as a prequel to a series. not my usual genre at all but incredibly easy to follow. I didn't feel lost at all and the even pace kept my interest throughout.

I did feel like there's something big to come so imagine the series will reveal so much more about Krystie aswell as give Krystoph the answers he needs. I was curious about his relationship with Elena so wondered whether things might change as the story develops further. I felt like Krystie might just be a short-term distraction although it'll be a case of picking up the series to really know for sure

[Neelii_44 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Read

Great read short read for anyone that likes sci-fi romance and a bit of adversity. The story was a slow start for me but as you continue it draws you in. It’s well paced to keep the reader intrigued… at least it was for me.

[Dari Malaunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review!

I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic novella - 'Undermind' by Zofia Von Huck! It’s a fantastic start to what promises to be an exciting sci-fi series. The world-building drew me in from the first page, and I’m eager to dive deeper into this intricate universe (I hadn't had enough haha).

The dynamic between Kristoph and Krystie was compelling and FAST (I didn't expect that as I previously I was reading a lot of slow burn and I was surpsired that their romance escalated quickly, and loved it!), and I can’t wait to see how their relationship develops as the series progresses (Hopefully we will see them more!). Overall, I’d give it 4,5 stars and am really looking forward to the next installment. Definitely a must-read for sci-fi fans!

My rating system (explained):
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: It touched my heart and soul in some sort of way. Satisfied in all means.
⭐⭐⭐⭐: I loved it.
⭐⭐⭐: Neutral - not good, not bad.
⭐⭐: It was not my cup of tea.
⭐: I was unwell while reading this book, obviously I didn't like it.

[Caroline Helenasdotter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It’s a short read that remains exciting throughout. The author perfectly captures the eerie atmosphere of a dystopian world. The pacing is excellent, and the story never becomes dull. The world-building is immersive, and the characters are well-written, making you want to keep reading. I really enjoyed the reverse age gap trope. This book comes highly recommended.

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is not my usual genre so it was difficult for me to understand some of what was happening. It was clear the author was setting the stage for the rest of the series by explaining the way this world is set up.

The romance between the main characters developed quickly and I am defininitely interested in seeing how in unfolds for them

Though I do not usually read fantasy I did find this a quick, enjoyable read and I would read the rest of the series.

[McKenna Bailie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome dystopian novella with an intriguing romance and cool setting! I love the characters!