The Last Gods

by Adam Brownlie

Brace yourself for a mind-bending journey through time, humanity, and the edge of existence.

The Last Gods tells the epic story of Elodie Black, an ordinary wife thrust into extraordinary circumstances. When her husband’s cutting-edge research in neuroscience unlocks the secrets of immortality, Elodie finds herself at the center of a cosmic transformation. Spanning eons and civilizations, she grapples with love, loss, identity, and the very nature of humanity—all while facing the ultimate what does it mean to truly live?

Written by Australian author Adam Brownlie, The Last Gods combines a gripping, fast-paced storyline with profound philosophical insights. This unforgettable novel will challenge everything you think you know about life, technology, and the universe itself.

Why you’ll love The Last

🌌 Epic Travel through the evolution of civilization, humanity, and technology in a story that spans the end of time.
🧠 Explore deep philosophical themes that will leave you questioning your own existence.
💔 Relatable Follow Elodie’s emotional journey through grief, love, and transcendence, balancing heart and intellect.
⚡ Fast-paced Dive into a plot that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
🤯 Life-changing Discover a story that lingers with you long after you close the book.

Order The Last Gods today and embark on a sci-fi adventure that will expand your mind and captivate your heart.

Genres: Science Fiction

169 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 15, 2024

About the author

Find more at adambrownlie.com.au

Reviews

[Angala Cariou · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read if you like Sci-Fi. It brings up some thought-provoking issues, without sacrificing story. You get attached to the characters right away. You get a real feel for the loving relationship between Marcus and Elodie. Marcus comes across as the someone any woman would want to be married to and his love for Elodie really shows in his care for her. The story follows their relationship even after Marcus's death and as Elodie life is elevated. This story follows a long span of time as Elodie finds herself dealing with technology that can extend life. She must find herself and her place in the ever changing universe. It's a great Sci-Fi story!

[Utkarsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sprawl of a science fiction work opines, grandly and on the most intimate of scales, on love and loss, on the core of humanity. From grieving widow to godlike being, an entity of limitless power and access, the universe is ever-changing as Elodie negotiates each one of these conceptual standpoints on time, love, and identity.

Brownlie masterfully interweaves a tale that sails across centuries yet never loses its anchor to the deeply personal struggles of its protagonist. The relationship between Elodie and Markus is deep enough to transcend the usual bounds of romance and morph into a love story to survive beyond the borders of life and death.

But the philosophical underpinning with which the novel is impregnated makes it all the more engaging as it confronts readers through the life of Elodie to weigh in on the morals of living forever and the very essence of existing.

More than a science fiction novel, this is sure to ensnare any reader in a web of love, mythology, and existential reflection. Grand and personal, Brownlie's storytelling weaves a narrative as varied as it is enlightening. A MUST READ

[Abayomi Shodubi]

This a mesmerizing love fiction that blends romance with rich mythology. The story follows Elodie and Markus whose passionate relationship unfolds against a backdrop of divine conflicts and earthly challenges, The author ( Adam Brownlie ) vivid world-building and emotional depth create a captivating narrative that explores the complexities of love in its many forms.

The characters are well-developed, and their chemistry is electric, making readers invested in their journey. While some plot points could have been tightened, the emotional climax is powerful and satisfying. Overall, "The Last Gods" is a beautifully crafted tale of love, sacrifice, and destiny that will resonate with fans of both romance and fantasy.
I enjoyed reading it and sharing it with my friends and family.

[Sean Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. I like sci-fi that has big themes and a grand scale, and this book has both. But at the same time, it manages to be a deeply personal story. On one level it is a love story about the love that the protagonist Elodie carries across centuries for her lost love Marcus. But at the same time, it’s a personal story of Elodie’s relationship with herself and with, ultimately…the universe. An epic span of time is covered in this novel, beginning in a recognizable world of the near future but extending into a far future where humans have slipped their mortal bonds and are like gods. Yet the transitions are handled deftly in the narrative, grounded by Elodie’s story. I recommend this highly if you like thoughtful sci-fi.

[Antony Wairiuko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb theological-and-technological Narrative, with Brilliant Plot Twists

The Last Gods is a 14-chapter, 169-page sci-fi book by Adam Brownlie. Its blobbed and haloed covert art—a cyan-hued wife strategically foregrounding a darkened turquoise-hued husband amid a purplish digital circuit board—is a futuristic concept that blends well with the August 2024 book’s technological narrative in its aptly subtitled chapters. 

An allusion to the Biblical trees of life and knowledge from an evolutionary perspective—a blurred distinction between the creation theory and a primate-to-human evolution-related morality and mankind’s quest for technology-oriented immortality, “when we will eat from the tree of life and become truly godlike; the last gods; the apex of evolution”—inspired the book’s title and is the basis for its superb theological-and-technological context.

Basically, the protagonists are Markus Black and his wife Elodie. Markus: an insecure, irreligious husband who works at Neural; his field of work includes advanced surveillance technology, AI driver assistance, and he helped invent a thinking-oriented animal-controlling device. Elodie: a vulnerable, validation-seeking, and religious junior research associate-turned-advisor at Green Engineering, an agriculture-funded, nature-manipulating company. 

The plot conflict is a minor traffic accident involving Elodie’s car, prompting Markus—for fear of losing her—to initiate their “next project” whose peak, 50 years later, is “the final frontier.” In essence, it is a brain-uploading/downloading technology, storing the data in servers and enabling specialists to edit out undesirable traits. This “disembodied existence as pure data” offers its adopters an option to “transition their conscious mind to the cloud and live solely on the Internet, leaving the physical body behind…where you can interact with other people on a bandwidth we can hardly even imagine.”

The plot’s watershed moments are the outcomes of Markus’s brain upload during the initial and replicated stages. Will the couple separate forever, or will they ultimately reunite? No spoilers! Read this suspenseful book to know exactly what, and how it, happens. 

The ideological fallout between Elodie and her anti-longevity activist daughter is amazing.

Heated debates with family friends, attacks by idealists, ethical dilemmas, allusions to prophecies, generational trauma and trauma bonding, pro-humanity attitudes, dysfunctional families, infidelity, threats, ill-fated love affairs, remorse, social constructs, utopia, dystopia, coping mechanisms, liberty, finding closure, fantasies, inequalities, medical applications, allegations of playing God, and interstellar travel are among the many factors that shape its seamless plot. 

The Last Gods has brilliant plot twists.  

[Ashmita Rani · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "The Last Gods," Adam Brownlie crafts a compelling narrative that delves into the themes of love, loss, and the quest for immortality. The story follows Elodie Black as she navigates her transformation from grief to a godlike existence, prompting readers to reflect on what it truly means to be human. Brownlie’s intricate world-building immerses us in a richly imagined future where advanced brain science challenges the boundaries between life and death.

Elodie's emotional journey, marked by the loss of her husband Markus and the possibility of new love with her friend Archer, adds depth to the narrative. As she grapples with moral dilemmas and the implications of her newfound powers, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about connection and sacrifice. With its blend of philosophical depth and engaging storytelling, "The Last Gods" is a must-read for fans of science fiction that challenges the mind and touches the heart.

[Mahmoud Elshennawy]

The Last Gods
This book had me thinking even after I’ve finished reading. The storyline is so intriguing and interesting. You’re just left thinking what would happen to Elodie in this ever changing future filled with technology. Elodie is one half of our main characters, she is the love of Marcus. Their relationship is so powerful and strong it goes beyond life and death. It is as they say the love story of the century, but not only their century, it is for centuries to come. As this story expands through time. Elodie is a complex character that you get to explore and unravel its layers while reading the book. It’s an amazing story, you need to read it yourself to understand what i’m saying. I highly recommend it not just for romantic book readers but to all sci-fi readers.

[Knavaidya Yadav · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished the book and truly worth the time. The story’s about Elodie, who, after losing her husband, gets caught up in a journey that makes her transcend limits. The blend of sci-fi and deep questions about life, love, and immortality is amazing it raises so many intriguing questions. It’s not just about sci-fi thrills, it dives deep into some real heavy stuff, like what it even means to be human. And trust me, it gets intense. You’re constantly questioning right and wrong along with her, and it’s pretty mind-blowing. If you’re into thought-provoking sci-fi, it’s worth a try, and believe me it is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve finished, whenever you will be deep in thought again you will remember this story.

[Ajayi Jemima · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author's unique blend of science fiction and romance creates a thrilling narrative that challenges reader to think extensively about human experience that cut across life.
The last gods is a master piece which dives deeply into faith, science and the power of true love.
I can't help but wonder the imaginations behind this thought-provoking book. It haunts me.
Markus and Elodie are two people that defines what true love is all about.
They may have their differences, complex beliefs and values about religion but all the same they stood by each other.
It broke my heart when Markus died leaving Elodie. She had to sought out a technology that stood as a bridge between her past and present lives.
I recommend this book to people who love engaging and romantic books but most importantly to people who are science fiction lovers. It's a must read!!!

[temitope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished "The Last Gods" by Adam Brownlee, and wow—what a ride! The story follows Elodie Black, who, after losing her husband, finds herself with godlike powers and faced with some major life (and world) decisions. It's got everything: drama, sci-fi twists, and a lot of heart.

What I loved most is how it dives into those big existential questions but still keeps things super relatable. Elodie’s journey through grief, love, and moral dilemmas feels so real, even in this wild, futuristic setting. The pacing is spot on, and the characters really pull you in.

If you're into fiction that’s both entertaining and makes you think, definitely check this one out. Highly recommend it for anyone who loves a good mix of action, emotion, and some deep philosophical vibes.

[Deborah Osungunna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Book by Adam Brownlie! The plot twist is so creative, that I almost didn't believe this is fiction.

The storyline is intriguing and again makes me wonder if it has some elements of a true life story, at least in the early chapters of the book.

Adam sure did his research into technology which is awesome.

The Last Gods is relatable, easy to read, it captures every emotion perfectly and will definitely leave you trying to imagine the characters. I promise, you won't stop reading until you turn the last page.

This is for all Sci-fi lovers. It's worth every minute of your time!

[Mai · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book touched my soul in ways I could never imagined!

It explores the relationship between AI and human existence in great detail which really spoke to me as a woman in STEM. Also, the narrative steer the complexities of immortality, the evolution of human consciousness, and the dance between faith and technology. The characters embodied many of the reflections I have, especially with my very religious family. The author’s treatment of religion and individualism was thought-provoking, creating a dialogue between the divine and the digital that was both innovative and respectful. It wasn’t just entertaining; it also broadened my view on the future of humanity and how technology might shape our world.

Markus have not only carried Elodie all throughout to save her sanity, but also saved me from my own dilemma. Such a wonderful read and I'd recommend this to anyone I know!

[Adeboyejo Adenibuyan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the best I have read so far because this books points out places and times we will have to face in our lives as will continue to grow in age, there are a lot of emotions attached to this book. It’s highly recommended to every one irrespective of the age . Kudos to Adam brownlie

[Okolo Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had all the feels. Elodie and Marcus' story made me wipe away tears. At one point,it suddenly felt like Elodie was a complex character with many layers attached to her which were being unraveled as the book progressed. Surreal. I'd recommend this to any sci Fi lover

[Rachel Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read. Great character development and a great story that was easy to follow. Kept me fully interested the entire time!

[Jenna Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Last Gods is a book that will make you think even long after you have turn the last pages. It is more than a Sci-Fi novel. It touches on so many areas of our humanity and our society as a whole. I am impressed at how fluidly it presents the case of Science and Faith and how it merge more than it clash. The main character, Elodie is so relatable with her struggles and conflicts that it is as though the writer is writing about you. I find it amazing that even with the time jumps through out the book that spreads over millennias, the author was able to maintain the character intact as it goes through different changes in her personal life and the world/universe around her.

While reading this book, unlike any other Sci-fi, you are not thrust into a utopian world that you know right away is just a figment of the author's imagination. You are instead being ushered to a future that is close by. A time which may happen sooner from our present reality. This makes the technology part of the story relatable but nonetheless a mind blowing possibility for humankind. At the end, it begs you to ask the many existential questions that has plague humanity--What is most important in this life? How many lifetime is enough? Where do we come from and where are we going?

With all the uncertainties and inner conflicts the main character has (on which you cannot help but feel as well), it is such an amazing experience how in the end, she finally found her answers and felt that elusive peace in such a suspenseful twist. If you are looking for a thought provoking read, this is the one for you.

[Stjepan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and thought-provoking read!

The Last Gods touches on profound concepts that we wrestle with throughout life—immortality, religion, and the afterlife, all while questioning humanity’s constant chase for meaning beyond death. The characters are relatable, not just stereotypical heroes, and their struggles resonate deeply. With the rise of AI in our modern world, the book provokes thought, and perhaps even fear, about what the future holds. It’s a fascinating, thought-provoking read that keeps you engaged with its blend of philosophy and science fiction.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is also available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library

“What if…Markus or Elexus brought me back only to find that I was no longer the same person as before? It wouldn’t matter if it was something subtle or obvious. I still wouldn’t be me anymore, not really.” (p. 56)

A captivating, cerebral experience

Elodie’s husband, Markus, has a brilliant revelation following his wife’s car accident. Knowing he could have lost her that day, what if he could prevent that from happening? What if breaking-edge technology could facilitate immortality? Deeply religious, Elodie struggles to accept the implications of his research until tragedy strikes and she faces her own mortality. The Last Gods by Adam Brownlie follows Elodie’s journey through her groundbreaking entry into a science that will change humanity forever and explores the philosophical query of whether the soul continues when dying becomes a choice.

From the depths of grief, Elodie transforms not only emotionally, but physically–to the extent that one might argue that her humanity has been sacrificed in order to preserve her mind. Her flaws drive her actions, and even when the people she holds dear choose a different path, she struggles to let go. Although so much time passes in the course of the book, the logical progression keeps it from feeling too rushed. The Last Gods is an excellent fast-paced science fiction novel that will also appeal to fans of dystopian fiction. It is difficult to describe the book without giving spoilers–it really should be read knowing as little as possible about the plot for the best experience!

[Abdullah Mert · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was reading the book, I didn’t realize how much time had passed until the sections ended. Every time a new section started, I learned so much that it was actually unbelievably true. The book presented a world that may or may not be true someday. It made me realize I wanted to see what would happen every time I turned a new page. It was like learning about new world orders. The book was very concentrated in terms of information, nonetheless it made you completely understand the world from the main character’s perspective. As time passed in the book, it felt like I was there with the character, and my time was passing at the same velocity. I often stopped between chapters to absorb the information I gained from the book and to think about what the next step might be, how much this world could be improved, and what sense it made. Sometimes I was right; sometimes my imagination was not enough, but it was broadened by the book. When I was reading the end of the book, I simultaneously listened to Antonín Dvořák’s 9th Symphony, which is titled “The New World.” I think the book showed me a new world that the author created with his imagination. The missing parts could be filled with my own imagination.

[Nadine Nabil · Rating 5 out of 5]

The futuristic sci-fi romance known as the Last gods captured through its pages the wonders of a possible future.

Even though that this book is a fiction, but the evolution of the characters makes you feel the deep connection between the reader and the main characters.

The story follows Elodie Black as she does through the process of grief after the death of her beloved ones, possibility of a new love and godlike existence.

As she struggles with moral dilemmas and the implications of her newfound powers, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about connection and sacrifice.

It was really mind blowing to explore the possibility of a future where AI and humans co-exist in the same timeframe.

The details in the evolution of the story and the characters is really impressive .

I would recommend it to fiction readers who always look for something to keep them on their toes.

[Tori McEwan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid sci-fi reader, this book hit home for me! It was the perfect length for me to read in one-sitting. This book draws from the reader’s emotions, testing their own internal beliefs, morals, and philosophical ideals in accordance with Elodie’s internal struggles. It follows the journey of Elodie (the main character), and her personal relationships with her daughter, husband, and her long time friend, Archer. In the book’s futuristic world of advancing technology, Elodie is struggling with her important role in technology’s future, and figuring out how to cope with her husband’s loss. I couldn’t put this book down, and felt like I related to Elodie’s struggles in so many ways. I highly recommend this book to any science fiction lover, and also to those people who question what the future and ethics of AI and technology could look like for our current world!

[Claudia Gee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Last Gods is a futuristic, yet contemporary science fiction novella that I couldn’t stop reading. The story is captivating and challenges the reader to dive into the topics of mortality, religion, love and ethics. It follows Elodie Black throughout her life; from being a widow and a Homo Sapien, partaking in her husbands research to become a Homo Deus, to assisting an all powerful AI entity. One might think that all of these topics would be excessive to include in a short novel but they fit together seamlessly. I enjoyed reading about Elodie’s life and seeing her character developed throughout the ages. As with any science fiction novel, the reader also considers the possibility of these actions taking place in our present world. What an intriguing and great read!

[Bushra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi Epic*
In "The Last Gods", Adam Brownlie crafts a captivating sci-fi narrative that explores the intricacies of human existence, immortality, and the future of civilization.
The Last Gods has well-developed characters with complex motivations, intriguing world-building with a richly detailed futuristic setting also thought-provoking exploration of immortality, power, and human nature. Moreover it has an engaging plot with unexpected twists and turns.
Some readers may find the pacing a bit slow in the middle section.
- A few supporting characters feel slightly underdeveloped.
"The Last Gods" is a compelling read for anyone interested in sci-fi, philosophy, and character-driven stories.It is a great addition to any sci-fi fan's library.

[Maxine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nowadays, the sci-fi genre, in my opinion, is one of the most difficult literary genres to write about — around one decade ago, we saw a wave of sci-fi and dystopic romances catching people's attention and being part of a generation, and this draws back to a movement that started with George Orwell and Ray Bradbury.

Adam Bownlie writes a witty and smart storie that plays with themes that we are in touch with every single day, but he manages to do it in a way that is far from boring or cliche.

Personally, I like how fluid the writing is while dealing with very deep inner questions that will leave us lingering thoughts after the reading. The adventure feels immersive, and the reader feels the need to follow the protagonist until the end of this odyssey.

[Nathan Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fantastic work of Science Fiction. Firstly, there are so many interesting concepts around future technology and what life in the future could look like. Where this book really stands out is the questions it raises about what makes us human. This book explores the interesting concept of humanity and what that really means. Do we really need a body, a brain; or is our humanity in our mind and soul? Even if we had the technology to really be immortal, could our souls last?

Moreover, the book is so fantastically written, and I couldn’t put it down. I would strongly recommend.

[Jenna Scalzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating, thought provoking read!

This book exceeded my expectations! I found myself wildly entertained by the characters (with both their positive attributes as well as their flaws) and the (somewhat terrifying) prospect of immortality. This book had me thinking about the positives and negatives of eternal life. Many moments had me on the verge of tears but the beautiful scenes balanced out the book and made this such an enjoyable read for me. A great book for sci-fi readers!

[Marija · Rating 5 out of 5]

As somebody who does not usually read this genre of books, I must say that this story surprised me in the best way possible. The difficult topics were dealt with in such a good way, which was probably the most difficult thing to do, as I believe that approaching certain topics should be done extremely carefully. This is an extremely emotional book in my opinion, so I would prepare a box of tissues. I loved the main character and how strong and witty she was, dealing with grief and being the main character we all wish for in a SciFi novel. I also absolutely loved the modern touch to it, overall, the mix of emotions, contemporary topics, challenges people must go through in life and an amazing writing style must convince each person to pick this book up!

[J. S. Bailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

So many questions are raised. Questions of mortality and the morality that comes with those questions. Questions of religious beliefs and how we deal with our differences. Questions of life, the universe and creation. And the story gives us some answers - at least some possible answers. Guidance, if you will. Whether we go in the same directions or not, the book shows us what could be the consequences.

A speculative journey that feels strangely real. We are so far from what this story depicts yet in many ways we are right on the cusp.

As we advance medically and increase our lifespan - how do we evolve? Does it affect the people around us, the way we live? What would happen if technology replaced religion?

This story weaves around your expectations, surprising you while never getting off-track.

There are such interesting dynamics between characters and their beliefs. And just as interesting is how those beliefs relate to the work they're doing. The characters are challenged throughout in a way that makes you feel as though you are experiencing their entire lives.


This book changed my perspective on life. It's rare that a piece of media can do so, but with so much curiosity seeping into your eyes from behind the words, it's hard not to stop and think.

[Zadan Zarik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterpiece That Transcends Science Fiction: A Review of The Last Gods by Adam Brownlie

If there’s one novel that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page, it’s The Last Gods . This breathtaking work by Adam Brownlie is a profound exploration of love, sorrow, faith, humanity, science, and religion—all seamlessly woven into a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. How does one novel manage to encompass so much? The answer lies in Adam’s meticulous research, his immersive dedication, and his ability to craft a story that transcends the boundaries of genre.

From the very first chapter, I was captivated. Brownlie’s writing is intricate, poetic, and evocative, drawing you into a world that feels at once familiar and hauntingly futuristic. While branded as science fiction, this book goes far beyond the typical tropes of the genre. It reads almost like a spiritual journey, as if Adam is sharing a vision he himself has experienced—a glimpse into the mysteries of existence, immortality, and what it means to be human.

Key Characters:
Elodie Black : The heart and soul of the story, Elodie is a protagonist who feels achingly real. Her transformation from a grieving wife to a transcendent being grappling with humanity’s essence is both heartbreaking and awe-inspiring. Her struggles with faith, identity, and love anchor the narrative, and Adam deserves immense credit for making her evolution feel authentic and deeply human—even as she transcends her physical form.
Markus Black : Elodie’s husband and a brilliant neuroscientist, Markus sets the stage for the novel’s exploration of immortality. His untimely death early in the story leaves Elodie to navigate the consequences of his groundbreaking research, setting off a chain of events that challenges everything we know about life, death, and the human condition.
Coby : A pivotal character in the latter half of the novel, Coby represents the intersection of humanity and technology. His philosophical conversations with Elodie delve into the existential questions that define the book, leaving readers pondering their own place in the universe.
Main Themes:
Immortality and Humanity : What happens when we conquer death? Can we maintain our humanity in the face of eternal life?
Faith and Science : Rarely are these two themes explored with such nuance. Brownlie doesn’t pit them against each other; instead, he shows how they can coexist, offering complementary perspectives on life’s mysteries.
Love and Loss : At its core, this is a story about the enduring power of love—and the pain of loss that shapes us.
Mind-Provoking Questions:
Brownlie doesn’t shy away from the big questions. Could eternal life be both a blessing and a curse? When we transcend the physical and mental boundaries imposed by nature, who do we become? Gods? Angels? Something else entirely? These are just a few of the thought-provoking ideas you’ll grapple with as you read.

The plot of The Last Gods is both intimate and epic. It begins with Elodie and Markus’s life together, then takes a dramatic turn after Markus’s death, propelling Elodie into a journey of self-discovery and philosophical inquiry. The pacing is perfect, keeping you engaged with every twist and turn. By the end, you’ll find yourself reflecting not only on the story but also on your own beliefs about life, death, and the future of humanity.

Why This Book Stands Out:
One of the most remarkable aspects of The Last Gods is its handling of religion and science. Too often, these themes are portrayed as opposing forces, but Brownlie masterfully demonstrates how they can coexist. Elodie’s strong religious beliefs are treated with sensitivity and respect, adding depth to her struggle to reconcile her faith with the reality of her newfound immortality.

Adam’s research is nothing short of astounding. He delves into over 500 research papers to explore the possibility of eternal life, grounding his fiction in real-world scientific and philosophical debates. As someone who did some digging of my own, I found myself agreeing with many of the ideas presented—it felt less like fiction and more like a glimpse into our potential future.

My Thoughts:
As someone who has read extensively in the sci-fi genre—time travel, immortality, mythology, and more—I can confidently say that The Last Gods is unlike anything I’ve ever encountered. It’s emotionally gripping, intellectually stimulating, and profoundly moving. Reading this book forces you to confront the big questions: What does it mean to be human? What is the purpose of life? And what happens when death is no longer inevitable?

For me, Elodie’s journey served as a poignant reminder that our humanity—our capacity to love, grieve, hope, and connect—is what truly defines us. The novel’s poetic beauty and philosophical depth make it unforgettable. I found myself wishing it were part of a series or that the story continued further, simply because I didn’t want to leave Elodie’s world behind.

Final Thoughts:
The Last Gods is not just a story—it’s a meditation on life itself. It’s the kind of book you’ll return to again and again, discovering new layers of meaning with each read. Adam Brownlie has crafted something extraordinary here, and I can’t wait to see what he creates next.

If you’re looking for a novel that challenges your mind, touches your heart, and stays with you long after you’ve finished, look no further. Read it, savor it, and share your thoughts—I’d love to hear what you take away from this incredible journey.

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

P.S. If you’re intrigued by Adam’s background, check out his website (linked to his Goodreads profile). His deep connection to nature and his thoughtful approach to storytelling shine through in every word of this masterpiece.

[Christy Graber · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid reader and sci fi/fiction lover, this book left quite the impression on me! The synopsis was not joking at all when it said that it mixed 'science fiction with deep philosophical questions' because every new point in the book had my mind turning and racing, in the best of ways.

To start, I will lead in with two things that personally did not bother me, but were noticeable: the time jumps can sometimes be jarring, and the book did not read the way a classic fiction book does. I admit that some readers may dislike one or both of these things, but honestly, I think they added to the charm, and I will explain why.

The time jumps were obvious usually a few sentences in, and they helped keep the narrative moving. With a book like this that has very heavy philosophical topics, it would have been much too heavy to consume had there not been time jumps in the story. However, the time jumps took out what would have been repetitive narrative and instead brought you to the next significant turn in our main character's life (Elodie). So take that as you will, but I saw this as a positive, and it kept the book at a manageable level without crossing into the "college textbook" type of feeling.

Additionally, let me touch on the unique way this fiction book reads. I would liken it to something between a biography and a fiction book. Obviously, the book is fiction, and Elodie is not a real person. However, the book read as though it was charting Elodie's life in some fashion. The negative (or sort of... unique) part of this is that, as another reviewer said, you don't get to know Elodie in the casual and personable way that you normally know fictional protagonists. However, this was, again, a positive aspect for me. Many fiction books are telling a story, with drama and action. They want you emotionally invested in at least the protagonist, if not other characters, because this makes the rising action and the climax that much more exciting.

'The Last Gods' is different though, so naturally, the way you know the characters is going to be different, and it should be different, or else the story wouldn't have felt the same. Although Elodie is ultimately our MC, the focus of the book and narrative seems less about Elodie, and more about the questions that Elodie faces about love, life, immortality, humanity, religion, etc...
What I realized while reading is the story isn't really about Elodie. Rather, Elodie is merely the tool that propels the story forward. As an integral character to the world changes that occur, and thus the questions this story is posing based on those changes, her story is not necessarily what's important, but the questions that can be derived from it are the important parts.

Anyways, I recognize this review is a bit long, but I wanted to explain those two things more than anything else. It is those things, particularly the second, that made this book such an enjoyable read for me.

I adore books and stories that make me think. This book did that. The big questions are very existential, and they made me think about what my choices would be, what my thoughts are, what my opinions are in that situation. What is the meaning of being human? Would I want to be immortal? Why do some humans desperately grasp at the chance of an immortal life? Where does human greed end, if ever? Would this level of technological advancement really bring a more joyful and peaceful life? With so many conveniences, would most of humanity really be able to find purpose to propel themselves forward? Can humans exist without purpose? If so, would that existence still be meaningful and happy? And so much more. This is only a glimpse of the questions I asked myself during this read.

(To add, it also touched on less existential topics, as well. For example: love and grief. How two people with vastly different views can interact together, live together, love one another. The regret associated with loss. The grieving process. And so on. Whether this is as lovers, partners, friends, or even parent/child. These questions definitely did not go unnoticed, and added just as much to the story as the existential topics did for me.)

Long story short: this book was phenomenal. Every chapter, every page, left me in awe and wonder. Whether I agreed with Elodie or other characters or not, I couldn't put this book down. I finished it in one sitting. Despite the less personable connections, I cried. I smiled. I laughed. I felt fear, and anxiety, at times. I grieved. I was excited...

If any of this sounds appealing to you, I guarantee you will enjoy this book just as much as I did. And even if it doesn't appeal to you, it is a quick read at a good price. I recommend giving it a try with an open mind. You might just be surprised at what you find.