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The Price of Freedom
It’s 2047. The rebellion has been crushed. The Agency is reestablishing control.
Rebel leader Dray Quintero languishes in his cell, struggling against his captors' manipulations. His daughter Raven's cries torment him at night. He has doomed them both.
When given an unexpected chance to escape prison, they break out--but they're not safe. No one is. The Agency is still in power. And they're tightening their grip. As dangers mount, Dray is haunted by an impossible flee and survive, or gamble his last chance for freedom by taking a stand against impossible odds.
He tried running. He tried fighting. This time, he must try something radically different. Something no one will see coming.
The Price of Freedom is the adrenaline-fueled final installment in The Price Of trilogy from multiple-award–winning author Michael C Bland.
“sci-fi with a soul … The stakes are high, the tech scarily plausible, and the emotional beats are gut-wrenching.” – The Reading Bud
“delivers non-stop tension, emotional depth, and a chilling look at the power of technology in the wrong hands” – Likely Story
“a breathtaking conclusion … delivering an electrifying, action-packed finale that will leave readers exhilarated and heartbroken.” - BookViral
“High-octane, high-tech SF that plays like a Hollywood blockbuster” – Kirkus Review
“a captivating exploration of survival, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity” - Bookmarkks
Rebel leader Dray Quintero languishes in his cell, struggling against his captors' manipulations. His daughter Raven's cries torment him at night. He has doomed them both.
When given an unexpected chance to escape prison, they break out--but they're not safe. No one is. The Agency is still in power. And they're tightening their grip. As dangers mount, Dray is haunted by an impossible flee and survive, or gamble his last chance for freedom by taking a stand against impossible odds.
He tried running. He tried fighting. This time, he must try something radically different. Something no one will see coming.
The Price of Freedom is the adrenaline-fueled final installment in The Price Of trilogy from multiple-award–winning author Michael C Bland.
“sci-fi with a soul … The stakes are high, the tech scarily plausible, and the emotional beats are gut-wrenching.” – The Reading Bud
“delivers non-stop tension, emotional depth, and a chilling look at the power of technology in the wrong hands” – Likely Story
“a breathtaking conclusion … delivering an electrifying, action-packed finale that will leave readers exhilarated and heartbroken.” - BookViral
“High-octane, high-tech SF that plays like a Hollywood blockbuster” – Kirkus Review
“a captivating exploration of survival, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity” - Bookmarkks
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2025
3 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Michael C. Bland
3 books56 followersMichael C Bland is a founding member and the secretary of BookPod, an invitation-only, online group of professional writers. He pens the monthly BookPod newsletter where he celebrates the success of their members, which include award-winning writers, film makers, journalists, and bestselling authors.
His first novel, The Price of Safety, was chosen as a Finalist of the 2020 Indie Book Awards for both Science Fiction and Thriller and won two other awards. His second novel, The Price of Rebellion, was released in 2023 and won nine awards, including Best Science Fiction Novel of the Year by Indies Today. The third in the trilogy, The Price of Freedom, will be released in April 2025.
Michael currently lives in Denver with his wife Janelle and their dog Pico.
His first novel, The Price of Safety, was chosen as a Finalist of the 2020 Indie Book Awards for both Science Fiction and Thriller and won two other awards. His second novel, The Price of Rebellion, was released in 2023 and won nine awards, including Best Science Fiction Novel of the Year by Indies Today. The third in the trilogy, The Price of Freedom, will be released in April 2025.
Michael currently lives in Denver with his wife Janelle and their dog Pico.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 11, 2025
3.5 stars
The Price of Freedom is book three in a futuristic techno thriller series. I have not read the other books and although there is some background information, I believe that reading the series in order would be a benefit.
Set in America in 2047, this is a story about those who fought against computerised brain implants which allowed leaders to influence, listen and control the American population.
Dray was once involved in creating a programme that accessed every security camera across the country. Now he’s a wanted rebel and his old student friend is his enemy. This book opens in a high security complex where Dray and his two daughters are prisoners. They have been tortured, and Dray’s brain patterns and thought processes are continually monitored. His twelve-year-old daughter is kept alive by machines while her hacking skills and computer knowledge are wanted by the establishment leaders.
Dray and his family escape the facility and this story reaches a satisfying conclusion with many challenges and battles along the way. There is a lot going on with the fast pace, large number of characters and extensive futuristic technology. Most of the story is told through the eyes of Dray, though occasionally the narrative slips into omniscient third person, supplying details that his character could not have known.
Some of the combat scenes in this story were overlong especially with all the detail needed to explain the fighting and the character actions. I find that battle scenes in fiction often work better if they are short and compact making them easier for the reader to follow.
I liked the story premise and some of the technology was very interesting; I wanted to know more about it and felt that there were missed opportunities to slow the story pace while adding in layered background to enhance the narrative.
The Price of Freedom is book three in a futuristic techno thriller series. I have not read the other books and although there is some background information, I believe that reading the series in order would be a benefit.
Set in America in 2047, this is a story about those who fought against computerised brain implants which allowed leaders to influence, listen and control the American population.
Dray was once involved in creating a programme that accessed every security camera across the country. Now he’s a wanted rebel and his old student friend is his enemy. This book opens in a high security complex where Dray and his two daughters are prisoners. They have been tortured, and Dray’s brain patterns and thought processes are continually monitored. His twelve-year-old daughter is kept alive by machines while her hacking skills and computer knowledge are wanted by the establishment leaders.
Dray and his family escape the facility and this story reaches a satisfying conclusion with many challenges and battles along the way. There is a lot going on with the fast pace, large number of characters and extensive futuristic technology. Most of the story is told through the eyes of Dray, though occasionally the narrative slips into omniscient third person, supplying details that his character could not have known.
Some of the combat scenes in this story were overlong especially with all the detail needed to explain the fighting and the character actions. I find that battle scenes in fiction often work better if they are short and compact making them easier for the reader to follow.
I liked the story premise and some of the technology was very interesting; I wanted to know more about it and felt that there were missed opportunities to slow the story pace while adding in layered background to enhance the narrative.
April 23, 2025
The Price Of Freedom is the final book in The Price Of Trilogy by Michael C Bland and it satisfied all my reading needs. It was a brutal war…and they lost…but did they? Sure, they have Dray and his family locked up and they are killing off all the rebels, but, even though they are down, they are not out. Mina and Talia will never give up. I love these characters.
I love all the science fiction elements, nanobots, robots, hovercrafts and so much more. I love all the characters that put their lives on the line. They suffer horrendous injuries that are often cured with nanobots. I found that fascinating, but they can’t bring back the dead. Michael C Bland does not hesitate to kill off his characters. We know they can’t all survive, but I mourned with the characters at their loss.
If you are as enthralled as I am at thought provoking science fiction, The Price Of Trilogy may be for you. It is a fast paced read that kept me flipping pages, having to know what comes next. Who will live? Who will die? I feel confident that the rebels will be victorious, I’m just not sure who will be left standing or how it will come about.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
I love all the science fiction elements, nanobots, robots, hovercrafts and so much more. I love all the characters that put their lives on the line. They suffer horrendous injuries that are often cured with nanobots. I found that fascinating, but they can’t bring back the dead. Michael C Bland does not hesitate to kill off his characters. We know they can’t all survive, but I mourned with the characters at their loss.
If you are as enthralled as I am at thought provoking science fiction, The Price Of Trilogy may be for you. It is a fast paced read that kept me flipping pages, having to know what comes next. Who will live? Who will die? I feel confident that the rebels will be victorious, I’m just not sure who will be left standing or how it will come about.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
May 29, 2025
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The trilogy finally comes to an end in The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland and the book starts off immediately hooking you in, as it should, being that book two ended on a massive cliff hanger. Thwarted at the very last moment of his plan, the worst possible thing could have happened and now he’s captured alongside his oldest daughter, Raven, while his youngest child, Talia, the one whom he had thought dead, turns out to be alive and just barely. She’s under the possession of the Agency, hooked into their system to collect her data and soon so are Dray and Raven. To make things worse, forget trying to run, what is keeping Talia from actually dying is staying hooked up! Having given up from trying to escape, it’s not until he learns of Talia’s plans to help them break out, is his drive to protect his daughters rekindled.
This was a fantastic finale to the trilogy. Having escaped the facility, Dray’s original goal was to run away from all of this. If he crosses the border, perhaps he can hide, stay low enough to live out a good life, keeping his daughters out of danger and trouble. But, when he realizes that this will never be over until he and his small remaining band of the rebels put an end to this for good, he understands what he must do, even if it comes with a severe price, even if it comes with sacrifices.
The United States government is filled with imposters. Using the mandatory implants in people’s eyes, the hijackers were able to replace the current Congress and others in office, while hiding that the coup had ever taken place using the implants. Illusions conjured to make it as if the original members are still in office and much of this uses technology that Dray himself had developed, his intentions having been to use it to protect and not to deceive. The mastermind behind the coup is an old friend, Zion, and now it seems that nothing they are doing can win them this war. Even when all seems to be going according to plan, they are shot down over and over, backing Dray and his friends into a corner.
And what can a small band of rebels do against an army…?
This was a fast paced book, brutal and utterly unforgiving. The list of deaths ran so long, I not only stopped counting, but I stopped believing in the whole “they’re part of the main cast, therefore they can’t die.” Through so much of this final struggle, it felt like every few chapters, another of the rebellion loses their ability to fight or worse, loses their life. It’s devastating and heartbreaking! It constantly felt like everything was meaningless and all was lost, but in the end, the realization struck. There would be no good ending if they failed, if they gave up. They are the last hope.
I enjoyed this series and it felt like we’ve gone through so much with the rebellion. The fight scenes so intense and some felt like they would never end. You’d find yourself holding your breath because you just don’t know if everyone will make it out alive. There are moments where final laughs and meals are had, there are breakups and departures, there are the unexpected that happen. The characters bond well, I’ve grown rather attached to them. The ending was great and I certainly shed a tear. It’s bittersweet where everything has ended. If you enjoy a good dystopian book with lots of technology involved, give this series a try. Given our current day and age’s worry over data and loss of privacy, this book takes it up ten notches; a paranoid nightmare come to reality. But, even in the darkest times, even if there is just one rebel ready to lead, there is hope.
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Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. This does not impact the review and all opinions are my own.
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The trilogy finally comes to an end in The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland and the book starts off immediately hooking you in, as it should, being that book two ended on a massive cliff hanger. Thwarted at the very last moment of his plan, the worst possible thing could have happened and now he’s captured alongside his oldest daughter, Raven, while his youngest child, Talia, the one whom he had thought dead, turns out to be alive and just barely. She’s under the possession of the Agency, hooked into their system to collect her data and soon so are Dray and Raven. To make things worse, forget trying to run, what is keeping Talia from actually dying is staying hooked up! Having given up from trying to escape, it’s not until he learns of Talia’s plans to help them break out, is his drive to protect his daughters rekindled.
This was a fantastic finale to the trilogy. Having escaped the facility, Dray’s original goal was to run away from all of this. If he crosses the border, perhaps he can hide, stay low enough to live out a good life, keeping his daughters out of danger and trouble. But, when he realizes that this will never be over until he and his small remaining band of the rebels put an end to this for good, he understands what he must do, even if it comes with a severe price, even if it comes with sacrifices.
The United States government is filled with imposters. Using the mandatory implants in people’s eyes, the hijackers were able to replace the current Congress and others in office, while hiding that the coup had ever taken place using the implants. Illusions conjured to make it as if the original members are still in office and much of this uses technology that Dray himself had developed, his intentions having been to use it to protect and not to deceive. The mastermind behind the coup is an old friend, Zion, and now it seems that nothing they are doing can win them this war. Even when all seems to be going according to plan, they are shot down over and over, backing Dray and his friends into a corner.
And what can a small band of rebels do against an army…?
This was a fast paced book, brutal and utterly unforgiving. The list of deaths ran so long, I not only stopped counting, but I stopped believing in the whole “they’re part of the main cast, therefore they can’t die.” Through so much of this final struggle, it felt like every few chapters, another of the rebellion loses their ability to fight or worse, loses their life. It’s devastating and heartbreaking! It constantly felt like everything was meaningless and all was lost, but in the end, the realization struck. There would be no good ending if they failed, if they gave up. They are the last hope.
I enjoyed this series and it felt like we’ve gone through so much with the rebellion. The fight scenes so intense and some felt like they would never end. You’d find yourself holding your breath because you just don’t know if everyone will make it out alive. There are moments where final laughs and meals are had, there are breakups and departures, there are the unexpected that happen. The characters bond well, I’ve grown rather attached to them. The ending was great and I certainly shed a tear. It’s bittersweet where everything has ended. If you enjoy a good dystopian book with lots of technology involved, give this series a try. Given our current day and age’s worry over data and loss of privacy, this book takes it up ten notches; a paranoid nightmare come to reality. But, even in the darkest times, even if there is just one rebel ready to lead, there is hope.
----------
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. This does not impact the review and all opinions are my own.
March 14, 2025
Michael C. Bland’s The Price of Freedom grabs you by the throat from the very first sentence and doesn’t let go. It’s a futuristic thriller that weaves technology, government control, and rebellion into a high-stakes story of survival. Dray Quintero, once an engineer responsible for a nationwide surveillance network, is now the most wanted man in America. The government he helped strengthen has twisted his creations into tools of oppression. Branded a traitor, hunted, and broken, Dray fights to reclaim his family and the truth. The novel spans years of technological advancements and political manipulation, leading to a world where implanted neural tech controls everything, including people’s very thoughts. Dray’s story is one of regret, defiance, and an unyielding need for justice.
Bland’s writing is gripping, filled with gut-punch emotions and relentless action. The opening pages make it clear, this isn’t just another dystopian novel. The way Dray is mentally and physically tortured, forced into mind-altering simulations, and stripped of his agency is brutal. It’s not just the world-building that’s impressive but the raw humanity beneath it all. The author manages to weave David vs. Goliath moments into the narrative that make you want to cheer. Bland nails the emotional weight of a father’s guilt and love, making every desperate choice hit that much harder.
The tech-driven oppression in The Price of Freedom feels terrifyingly possible. The government has weaponized implants, rewriting reality for its citizens while tracking every thought. Bland’s world-building is seamless, never bogging down the story with unnecessary exposition. Instead, he lets the horror of the surveillance state unfold naturally, making it all the more disturbing. The way the book handles moral dilemmas is another highlight. Dray isn’t some untouchable hero; he’s made big mistakes. He faces internal struggles that add layers to his character, making him more than just a rebel leader.
What makes this book stand out is its pacing. The action doesn’t let up, but it’s not just about explosions and fight scenes; it’s the tension, the feeling that every decision could be the wrong one, and that betrayal is always around the corner. Even minor characters have weight. Kieran, the cold and brutal Agent who torments Dray, isn’t just a stock villain. There are moments when you sense something deeper, something unresolved. Then there’s Zion Calloway, the man at the top, the former friend turned dictator. His conversations with Dray are dripping with the kind of restrained menace that makes you hold your breath. The book keeps you second-guessing, keeps you hoping Dray can find a way out, even when it seems impossible.
The Price of Freedom is for readers who love near-future thrillers packed with action, high emotional stakes, and a protagonist who refuses to break, no matter how much the world tries to shatter him. If you’re into books like 1984, Brave New World, or modern sci-fi thrillers like The Peripheral, this one’s right up your alley. It’s intense, it’s smart, and it leaves you questioning just how far technology and government control could go. Highly recommended.
Bland’s writing is gripping, filled with gut-punch emotions and relentless action. The opening pages make it clear, this isn’t just another dystopian novel. The way Dray is mentally and physically tortured, forced into mind-altering simulations, and stripped of his agency is brutal. It’s not just the world-building that’s impressive but the raw humanity beneath it all. The author manages to weave David vs. Goliath moments into the narrative that make you want to cheer. Bland nails the emotional weight of a father’s guilt and love, making every desperate choice hit that much harder.
The tech-driven oppression in The Price of Freedom feels terrifyingly possible. The government has weaponized implants, rewriting reality for its citizens while tracking every thought. Bland’s world-building is seamless, never bogging down the story with unnecessary exposition. Instead, he lets the horror of the surveillance state unfold naturally, making it all the more disturbing. The way the book handles moral dilemmas is another highlight. Dray isn’t some untouchable hero; he’s made big mistakes. He faces internal struggles that add layers to his character, making him more than just a rebel leader.
What makes this book stand out is its pacing. The action doesn’t let up, but it’s not just about explosions and fight scenes; it’s the tension, the feeling that every decision could be the wrong one, and that betrayal is always around the corner. Even minor characters have weight. Kieran, the cold and brutal Agent who torments Dray, isn’t just a stock villain. There are moments when you sense something deeper, something unresolved. Then there’s Zion Calloway, the man at the top, the former friend turned dictator. His conversations with Dray are dripping with the kind of restrained menace that makes you hold your breath. The book keeps you second-guessing, keeps you hoping Dray can find a way out, even when it seems impossible.
The Price of Freedom is for readers who love near-future thrillers packed with action, high emotional stakes, and a protagonist who refuses to break, no matter how much the world tries to shatter him. If you’re into books like 1984, Brave New World, or modern sci-fi thrillers like The Peripheral, this one’s right up your alley. It’s intense, it’s smart, and it leaves you questioning just how far technology and government control could go. Highly recommended.
June 1, 2025
The Price of Freedom is a sci-fi novel by Michael C. Bland that will keep you pinned to the edge of your seat. Set in America, where people are being controlled by the government using implanted devices, Dray Quintero, a fugitive, plans a rebellion against them. When he is caught and his family is captured, he begins to plot his escape, but The Agent, an agency working with the government, has the ability to read his thoughts and conversation with the use of the implant that has already been put in him (Dray). Now caught in a tight spot, Dray must work out his way to survival or end up becoming used by the government. Do you think he will make it out? If yes, what do you think the outcome would be?
Opinion:
My thoughts on The Price of Freedom center on three points: the author's writing, the characters, and the tone.
First, Bland's writing is straightforward, and this is because he does not waste time on wordy and lengthy descriptions of things. When the implants were newly introduced at the beginning of the book, he only spoke about their physical appearance such as how it protruded from the clothing of one of the agents. The author did not delve further into how it was wired and the connections done for it to work. Even though more descriptions could have helped me understand the device better, it is still forgivable given the quick pace of the book.
Second, one thing that differentiates The Price of Freedom from other sci-fi books I've read is the description of its main lead. The protagonist, Dray Quintero, was not portrayed as a flawless or perfect character; instead he is the opposite. Dray is a man shaped by the tragic trauma of having everything, including his children, taken from him by The Agents. He is also a person who is haunted by the dreadful loss of his loved ones and friends during the rebellion. These losses influenced his thoughts and decisions because he did not want to lose anyone again.
While Dray is a well-developed character, the other supporting characters lacked enough depth into their lives. However, I actually admired Dray's daughter, Talia, and her mental capabilities (the ability to hack into systems), which I believe were too advanced for her as a child. She used this to disable The Agent's system and help the family escape.
Lastly, the tone of the book was realistic. This is because there were no romantic or overly sweet words used, only pure emotions such as Dray's sadness at hearing his daughter cry from being tortured. Furthermore, in terms of realism, it echoes one characteristic of the modern world in which an ally or an enemy cannot be easily identified. When I read about the cause of Dray's and his family's arrest, I realized that his ex-wife, Mina, was solely responsible. She had conspired with Zion, the leader of The Agent and his men. In doing so, she betrayed her ex-husband and her children.
With these few points, I can conclude that the plot was filled with emotions and actions that captivated my attention. The book is appropriate for young adults and anyone interested in sci-fi genres because it will pique their interest.
Opinion:
My thoughts on The Price of Freedom center on three points: the author's writing, the characters, and the tone.
First, Bland's writing is straightforward, and this is because he does not waste time on wordy and lengthy descriptions of things. When the implants were newly introduced at the beginning of the book, he only spoke about their physical appearance such as how it protruded from the clothing of one of the agents. The author did not delve further into how it was wired and the connections done for it to work. Even though more descriptions could have helped me understand the device better, it is still forgivable given the quick pace of the book.
Second, one thing that differentiates The Price of Freedom from other sci-fi books I've read is the description of its main lead. The protagonist, Dray Quintero, was not portrayed as a flawless or perfect character; instead he is the opposite. Dray is a man shaped by the tragic trauma of having everything, including his children, taken from him by The Agents. He is also a person who is haunted by the dreadful loss of his loved ones and friends during the rebellion. These losses influenced his thoughts and decisions because he did not want to lose anyone again.
While Dray is a well-developed character, the other supporting characters lacked enough depth into their lives. However, I actually admired Dray's daughter, Talia, and her mental capabilities (the ability to hack into systems), which I believe were too advanced for her as a child. She used this to disable The Agent's system and help the family escape.
Lastly, the tone of the book was realistic. This is because there were no romantic or overly sweet words used, only pure emotions such as Dray's sadness at hearing his daughter cry from being tortured. Furthermore, in terms of realism, it echoes one characteristic of the modern world in which an ally or an enemy cannot be easily identified. When I read about the cause of Dray's and his family's arrest, I realized that his ex-wife, Mina, was solely responsible. She had conspired with Zion, the leader of The Agent and his men. In doing so, she betrayed her ex-husband and her children.
With these few points, I can conclude that the plot was filled with emotions and actions that captivated my attention. The book is appropriate for young adults and anyone interested in sci-fi genres because it will pique their interest.
April 8, 2025
'The Price of Freedom' by Michael Bland is the third book in The Price of trilogy, following 'The Price of Safety' and 'The Price of Rebellion'. While all three books follow the same story set in a dystopian world—and reading the previous books probably makes for a more rewarding experience—the author does a good job of providing backstory in the second and third books (especially through a timeline early on). Thus, you can read this book or The Price of Rebellion as standalones as well.
The world of this book has changed after humanity embraced a certain technology to protect itself from a viral pandemic and terrorist attacks. Given the backdrop of COVID-19 and rising global threats, the themes of survival and the sacrifices we are willing to make remain highly relevant. However, the price of safety is not just sacrificing natural abilities in favor of technology—it is also relinquishing control to those who wield that technology.
Even today, much of our time is spent online, with our reality shaped by digital experiences—often controlled by powerful corporations and governments. Bland powerfully explores these themes in his series. Here, technology is not just in our hands or on our wrists—it has intruded into our very being. As a result, the characters can no longer trust their own perceptions. A fake government, composed of digital, artificially generated people, rules the United States. Surveillance no longer relies on CCTV cameras; instead, people themselves are unknowingly turned into surveillance tools. Even their thoughts are not their own.
As the characters rebel, the novel raises questions about the cost of resistance—especially the personal price rebels must pay.
"Now, my family has been imprisoned, held by the true traitor, a man who’d once been my friend. My older daughter and I have been tortured, my younger daughter hooked to machines. Barely alive."
And in this book, the central question becomes: What price will you pay for freedom?
The story follows Dray Quintero, an extraordinary scientist turned rebel, whose passion for science is only surpassed by his love for his family. The third book begins with him and his daughter, Raven, in captivity. The novel continues to develop these characters, along with others I was introduced to in the second book. It delivers plenty of action—perhaps a bit too much for my taste—but that is to be expected in the concluding volume of a series. Additionally, as is often the case with final installments, I felt this book didn’t introduce many new themes.
Nevertheless, it brings a well-told story to a satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended— both this book and the series as a whole—to fans of science fiction and dystopian fiction. And if you’ve read the previous books, you’ll definitely want to learn more about the fates of Dray and Raven.
The world of this book has changed after humanity embraced a certain technology to protect itself from a viral pandemic and terrorist attacks. Given the backdrop of COVID-19 and rising global threats, the themes of survival and the sacrifices we are willing to make remain highly relevant. However, the price of safety is not just sacrificing natural abilities in favor of technology—it is also relinquishing control to those who wield that technology.
Even today, much of our time is spent online, with our reality shaped by digital experiences—often controlled by powerful corporations and governments. Bland powerfully explores these themes in his series. Here, technology is not just in our hands or on our wrists—it has intruded into our very being. As a result, the characters can no longer trust their own perceptions. A fake government, composed of digital, artificially generated people, rules the United States. Surveillance no longer relies on CCTV cameras; instead, people themselves are unknowingly turned into surveillance tools. Even their thoughts are not their own.
As the characters rebel, the novel raises questions about the cost of resistance—especially the personal price rebels must pay.
"Now, my family has been imprisoned, held by the true traitor, a man who’d once been my friend. My older daughter and I have been tortured, my younger daughter hooked to machines. Barely alive."
And in this book, the central question becomes: What price will you pay for freedom?
The story follows Dray Quintero, an extraordinary scientist turned rebel, whose passion for science is only surpassed by his love for his family. The third book begins with him and his daughter, Raven, in captivity. The novel continues to develop these characters, along with others I was introduced to in the second book. It delivers plenty of action—perhaps a bit too much for my taste—but that is to be expected in the concluding volume of a series. Additionally, as is often the case with final installments, I felt this book didn’t introduce many new themes.
Nevertheless, it brings a well-told story to a satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended— both this book and the series as a whole—to fans of science fiction and dystopian fiction. And if you’ve read the previous books, you’ll definitely want to learn more about the fates of Dray and Raven.
April 9, 2025
4.5stars-THE PRICE OF FREEDOM is the third and final instalment in Michael C Bland’s adult, sci-fi, post apocalyptic thriller trilogy focusing on Dray Quintero and his family. THE PRICE OF FREEDOM should not be read as a stand alone as is picks up after the cliff hanger of book two THE PRICE OF REBELLION.
SOME BACKGROUND: Set in the year 2047, all of the people in America are required by law to be outfitted with government sanctioned ocular and neural implants but the reality is much darker and dangerous. Dray Quintero is a design engineer whose latest creation-cold fusion- has caught the interest of not only the Agency but the Government as well. When a group of Rebels known as the Freedom Fighters sets its sights on Dray Quintero, Dray will discover the secrets his company has been hiding behind his back, secrets exposing corruption, betrayal and a fight for control. The ‘Gang of Five’ at Gen Omega-Nikolai, Brocco, Zion, Tevin and Dray have now ventured forward pathways that are about to converge and cross.
Told from first person perspective (Dray) THE PRICE OF FREEDOM follows Dray Quintero, his family and what’s left of the Freedom Fighters as they embark on a war with The Agency and The Government. As their numbers continue to decline, the reality of the Freedom Fighters’ situation is devastating, to the point of resignation but to ensure their fight was never in vain, Dray and his team, with the help of a former friend, amass an army of robots, with the hope of destroying the people in charge but years of betrayal have cost the American people millions of lives and trust, and The Agency is determined to ensure total control. Friends fighting friends, mother vs child, a world controlled by manipulation and power .
For readers and followers of sci-fi books written by authors such as William Gibson, Isaac Asimov, and Phillip K Dick, as well as many of the sci-fi and futuristic movies and series that have come to life on the big and little screens, there will no doubt be some familiar scenarios but familiar to the point of ‘what if’. As the people in charge gain more power, everyone else will lose, blinded by lies, false hope and fraudulent claims by the oligarchy who have taken control .
Most of the previous story line characters return as Dray struggles to forge ahead in the face of waning support and the loss of lives.
THE PRICE OF FREEDOM is another fast paced, action packed , complex and thought provoking story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control. The premise is dramatic, riveting and gritty; the characters are animate and desperate.
copy supplied for review
SOME BACKGROUND: Set in the year 2047, all of the people in America are required by law to be outfitted with government sanctioned ocular and neural implants but the reality is much darker and dangerous. Dray Quintero is a design engineer whose latest creation-cold fusion- has caught the interest of not only the Agency but the Government as well. When a group of Rebels known as the Freedom Fighters sets its sights on Dray Quintero, Dray will discover the secrets his company has been hiding behind his back, secrets exposing corruption, betrayal and a fight for control. The ‘Gang of Five’ at Gen Omega-Nikolai, Brocco, Zion, Tevin and Dray have now ventured forward pathways that are about to converge and cross.
Told from first person perspective (Dray) THE PRICE OF FREEDOM follows Dray Quintero, his family and what’s left of the Freedom Fighters as they embark on a war with The Agency and The Government. As their numbers continue to decline, the reality of the Freedom Fighters’ situation is devastating, to the point of resignation but to ensure their fight was never in vain, Dray and his team, with the help of a former friend, amass an army of robots, with the hope of destroying the people in charge but years of betrayal have cost the American people millions of lives and trust, and The Agency is determined to ensure total control. Friends fighting friends, mother vs child, a world controlled by manipulation and power .
For readers and followers of sci-fi books written by authors such as William Gibson, Isaac Asimov, and Phillip K Dick, as well as many of the sci-fi and futuristic movies and series that have come to life on the big and little screens, there will no doubt be some familiar scenarios but familiar to the point of ‘what if’. As the people in charge gain more power, everyone else will lose, blinded by lies, false hope and fraudulent claims by the oligarchy who have taken control .
Most of the previous story line characters return as Dray struggles to forge ahead in the face of waning support and the loss of lives.
THE PRICE OF FREEDOM is another fast paced, action packed , complex and thought provoking story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control. The premise is dramatic, riveting and gritty; the characters are animate and desperate.
copy supplied for review
April 25, 2025
The silence of seeing
Michael C. Bland's The Price of Freedom concludes his dystopian trilogy with an unrelenting barrage of high-stakes action and speculative reflection on authoritarian surveillance. Set in the year 2047, the novel unfolds in a post-rebellion United States where oppressive state power has triumphed—thanks, ironically, to the technological genius of its protagonist, Dray Quintero. Once a visionary engineer who designed a vast neural-surveillance network linking human vision to the state’s information infrastructure, Quintero now dwells in a fortified prison, subjected to invasive cognitive manipulations. The very system he helped create has transformed into a pervasive apparatus of psychological warfare, effectively turning perception itself into a tool of control. The narrative pivots on Quintero’s moral reckoning and desperate gambit to resist the regime that has corrupted his legacy.
Bland’s dystopia is disturbingly resonant, drawing on contemporary anxieties around data privacy, digital misinformation, and the ethical limits of technological governance. His imagined America—a society devastated by a vision-destroying virus, mass implant mandates, and a populace surveilled through their own eyes—mirrors real-world fears of state overreach and algorithmic authoritarianism. The strength of the novel lies in its ability to humanise these abstract concerns through character-driven tension. Quintero’s daughters, especially Talia, provide a compelling emotional core; her transformation from passive subject to strategic infiltrator deepens the ethical complexity of the resistance. Meanwhile, adversaries like Zion Calloway and Kieran avoid caricature, embodying the seductive moral rationalisations that often accompany systemic violence.
The novel maintains a gripping pace and builds a world whose dystopian scaffolding feels uncannily plausible. Bland’s prose is accessible yet effective, laced with moments of clarity that ground the high-octane tale in psychological and philosophical stakes. Ultimately, The Price of Freedom can be read as either an outstanding addition to the contemporary dystopian Sci-Fi offer or as a cautionary tale about the dangers of technological absolutism, the fragility of democratic institutions, and the immense cost of reclaiming autonomy once it has been surrendered.
Michael C. Bland's The Price of Freedom concludes his dystopian trilogy with an unrelenting barrage of high-stakes action and speculative reflection on authoritarian surveillance. Set in the year 2047, the novel unfolds in a post-rebellion United States where oppressive state power has triumphed—thanks, ironically, to the technological genius of its protagonist, Dray Quintero. Once a visionary engineer who designed a vast neural-surveillance network linking human vision to the state’s information infrastructure, Quintero now dwells in a fortified prison, subjected to invasive cognitive manipulations. The very system he helped create has transformed into a pervasive apparatus of psychological warfare, effectively turning perception itself into a tool of control. The narrative pivots on Quintero’s moral reckoning and desperate gambit to resist the regime that has corrupted his legacy.
Bland’s dystopia is disturbingly resonant, drawing on contemporary anxieties around data privacy, digital misinformation, and the ethical limits of technological governance. His imagined America—a society devastated by a vision-destroying virus, mass implant mandates, and a populace surveilled through their own eyes—mirrors real-world fears of state overreach and algorithmic authoritarianism. The strength of the novel lies in its ability to humanise these abstract concerns through character-driven tension. Quintero’s daughters, especially Talia, provide a compelling emotional core; her transformation from passive subject to strategic infiltrator deepens the ethical complexity of the resistance. Meanwhile, adversaries like Zion Calloway and Kieran avoid caricature, embodying the seductive moral rationalisations that often accompany systemic violence.
The novel maintains a gripping pace and builds a world whose dystopian scaffolding feels uncannily plausible. Bland’s prose is accessible yet effective, laced with moments of clarity that ground the high-octane tale in psychological and philosophical stakes. Ultimately, The Price of Freedom can be read as either an outstanding addition to the contemporary dystopian Sci-Fi offer or as a cautionary tale about the dangers of technological absolutism, the fragility of democratic institutions, and the immense cost of reclaiming autonomy once it has been surrendered.
August 23, 2025
The final high-octane installment of The Price Of trilogy from writer Michael Bland, The Price of Freedom is a sweeping triptych of a near-future America strangled by tyranny.
The storytelling focuses on protagonist Dray Quintero, a flawed, yet fiercely loyal engineer-turned-revolutionary, as he embarks on a maniacal chase to save his daughters, Raven and Talia. The Agency, ruled by the seriously flawed despot Zion Calloway, turns Dray’s neurocircuitry and surveillance networks against those who oppose his regime of horrific decision-making, masking environmental collapse, and subverting democracy. What follows includes a rewriting of history, and, poof: freedom becomes a memory.
Dray grows within this story from a guilt-ridden man of the system to an unanticipated insurgent leader. He becomes the influence for questions most people are afraid to ask, like: “Can innovation advance without exploitation?” or “When does protection become oppression?”
Zion Calloway and his Agency have a cache of frightful weapons at hand. The Agency’s swarmbots, neural implants, and 3D drone grids are both fascinating and terrifying. As such, they are a kind of reflection of our current anxieties about AI and privacy today.
The supporting cast includes some great characters: a wisecracking rebel named Jex, with a heart of steel, Valor, the traitor seeking his own redemption, and a grieving scientist called Garly, whose grief is far from healthy. While the despicable antagonist, Zion’s, warped concept of “population control” is deeply seated in his past. All of these characters are great, but my favorite character by far is Raven, one of Dray’s daughters.
This story had me focusing on the idea that freedom is not something given away by traditional heroes; freedom comes from the heroism of ordinary people. The end of the book (and therefore the end of the trilogy) is amazingly satisfying, with an epilogue suggesting that freedom is not something one arrives at. It’s instead an ongoing fight.
At a time of deepfakes, when climate denial has been normalized, and trust in institutions is crumbling, The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland acts as a warning shot across the bow: do not believe what they say and always, always fight for the truth.
The storytelling focuses on protagonist Dray Quintero, a flawed, yet fiercely loyal engineer-turned-revolutionary, as he embarks on a maniacal chase to save his daughters, Raven and Talia. The Agency, ruled by the seriously flawed despot Zion Calloway, turns Dray’s neurocircuitry and surveillance networks against those who oppose his regime of horrific decision-making, masking environmental collapse, and subverting democracy. What follows includes a rewriting of history, and, poof: freedom becomes a memory.
Dray grows within this story from a guilt-ridden man of the system to an unanticipated insurgent leader. He becomes the influence for questions most people are afraid to ask, like: “Can innovation advance without exploitation?” or “When does protection become oppression?”
Zion Calloway and his Agency have a cache of frightful weapons at hand. The Agency’s swarmbots, neural implants, and 3D drone grids are both fascinating and terrifying. As such, they are a kind of reflection of our current anxieties about AI and privacy today.
The supporting cast includes some great characters: a wisecracking rebel named Jex, with a heart of steel, Valor, the traitor seeking his own redemption, and a grieving scientist called Garly, whose grief is far from healthy. While the despicable antagonist, Zion’s, warped concept of “population control” is deeply seated in his past. All of these characters are great, but my favorite character by far is Raven, one of Dray’s daughters.
This story had me focusing on the idea that freedom is not something given away by traditional heroes; freedom comes from the heroism of ordinary people. The end of the book (and therefore the end of the trilogy) is amazingly satisfying, with an epilogue suggesting that freedom is not something one arrives at. It’s instead an ongoing fight.
At a time of deepfakes, when climate denial has been normalized, and trust in institutions is crumbling, The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland acts as a warning shot across the bow: do not believe what they say and always, always fight for the truth.
May 12, 2025
In author Michael C. Bland’s The Price of Freedom, the thrilling conclusion to a trilogy, a near-future sci-fi dystopia unfolds with immersive worldbuilding, even for series newcomers such as myself. The narrative refreshingly focuses on relatable human struggles rather than relying on fantastical tropes; there’s no magical weapons or ancient gods coming to save the day. Protagonist Dray Quintero fights against an authoritarian government while lamenting over the part he inadvertently played in the downfall of a dystopian United States in the year 2047, setting the stage for an exploration of regret, betrayal, and consequences. Bland paints a vivid picture of a world that feels both familiar and unsettling, drawing readers into a conflict that is both personal and societal.
The novel’s strength lies in its ability to ground its high-stakes plot in the very human experience of its protagonist. Dray’s journey isn’t just about action-packed firefights and rebellious schemes; it's also about coming to terms with his broken trust in the people who betrayed him. We may not all be action heroes running through a dystopian hellscape, but we can identify with feelings of hurt and loss when people we’re close to deceive us. The world-building is fairly impressive, painting a believable and detailed backdrop of a deep surveillance state. Unfortunately, I found the pacing of the plot somewhat uneven. Lengthy expository passages, seemingly aimed at catching new readers up to the plot, disrupt the momentum at inopportune moments. Especially at he beginning of the novel, just as the action builds and tension escalates, Dray tends to deliver clunky informational dumps, pulling the reader out of the immediate excitement and slowing the narrative flow. This tendency to prioritize exposition over pacing occasionally undercuts the otherwise thrilling nature of the plot.
Despite the pacing issue, The Price of Freedom remains a fairly compelling read. The vibrant dystopian world-building, along with the exploration of resonant themes like betrayal, creates an engaging, thought-provoking narrative. Next time I’ll start with the first book in the series!
The novel’s strength lies in its ability to ground its high-stakes plot in the very human experience of its protagonist. Dray’s journey isn’t just about action-packed firefights and rebellious schemes; it's also about coming to terms with his broken trust in the people who betrayed him. We may not all be action heroes running through a dystopian hellscape, but we can identify with feelings of hurt and loss when people we’re close to deceive us. The world-building is fairly impressive, painting a believable and detailed backdrop of a deep surveillance state. Unfortunately, I found the pacing of the plot somewhat uneven. Lengthy expository passages, seemingly aimed at catching new readers up to the plot, disrupt the momentum at inopportune moments. Especially at he beginning of the novel, just as the action builds and tension escalates, Dray tends to deliver clunky informational dumps, pulling the reader out of the immediate excitement and slowing the narrative flow. This tendency to prioritize exposition over pacing occasionally undercuts the otherwise thrilling nature of the plot.
Despite the pacing issue, The Price of Freedom remains a fairly compelling read. The vibrant dystopian world-building, along with the exploration of resonant themes like betrayal, creates an engaging, thought-provoking narrative. Next time I’ll start with the first book in the series!
March 24, 2025
What a ride! The Price of Freedom is one of those books that grabs you by the collar in the first chapter and doesn’t let go, not even at the final page. Author Bland beautifully crafts Dray Quintero’s story in this adrenaline-packed book that blends high-stakes action with razor-sharp commentary on surveillance, manipulation, and the cost of resistance. As someone who values character depth and emotional complexity in thrillers, I was floored by how intimately we journey through Dray’s pain, resilience, and impossible choices.
There’s something especially gutting about watching a father try to save his daughters while the entire weight of a dystopian surveillance state bears down on him. You feel every beat of Dray’s desperation. You rage with him. And you hope, desperately, for just one win in a world where every turn seems stacked against him. The pacing is relentless but not rushed. The stakes are high, the tech scarily plausible, and the emotional beats are gut-wrenching. The writing is crisp, cinematic, and rich with detail without being heavy-handed, a rare balance that, as an editor, I truly admire.
I especially appreciated how the story doesn’t sacrifice nuance for action. Even the “villains” are layered, their motivations rooted in ideology, not caricature. And Talia, what a revelation! Her strength and intellect, especially given her condition, give the story a compelling edge. She’s a standout character I won’t soon forget.
The Price of Freedom is sci-fi with a soul. It asks all the right questions: What are we willing to sacrifice for safety? How far can one man be pushed before he breaks? And when the system is rigged, what does true freedom even look like? This book is for fans of thought-provoking speculative fiction with a heart that is gritty, bold, and impossible to put down.
There’s something especially gutting about watching a father try to save his daughters while the entire weight of a dystopian surveillance state bears down on him. You feel every beat of Dray’s desperation. You rage with him. And you hope, desperately, for just one win in a world where every turn seems stacked against him. The pacing is relentless but not rushed. The stakes are high, the tech scarily plausible, and the emotional beats are gut-wrenching. The writing is crisp, cinematic, and rich with detail without being heavy-handed, a rare balance that, as an editor, I truly admire.
I especially appreciated how the story doesn’t sacrifice nuance for action. Even the “villains” are layered, their motivations rooted in ideology, not caricature. And Talia, what a revelation! Her strength and intellect, especially given her condition, give the story a compelling edge. She’s a standout character I won’t soon forget.
The Price of Freedom is sci-fi with a soul. It asks all the right questions: What are we willing to sacrifice for safety? How far can one man be pushed before he breaks? And when the system is rigged, what does true freedom even look like? This book is for fans of thought-provoking speculative fiction with a heart that is gritty, bold, and impossible to put down.
January 18, 2025
Michael C. Bland delivers a heart-pounding conclusion to The Price of trilogy with The Price of Freedom, a gripping dystopian thriller set in a future where survival is a battle against a relentless regime.
From the opening pages, the tension is razor-sharp. Dray Quintero, once a rebel leader, is now a prisoner, tormented by the cries of his daughter, Raven. The rebellion has failed, the Agency is tightening its grip, and all hope seems lost. But when an unexpected opportunity for escape arises, Dray and Raven seize it—only to realize that freedom is an illusion unless they’re willing to fight for it.
Bland masterfully blends action, intrigue, and emotional depth, forcing Dray to confront impossible choices. Should he keep running, ensuring his daughter's survival, or take one final stand against a seemingly unstoppable force? The novel doesn’t just explore the physical cost of resistance but delves into the psychological warfare that comes with fighting for a better world.
The stakes have never been higher, and Bland ensures that every page brims with tension, surprises, and moments of profound introspection. The futuristic setting feels eerily plausible, adding an unsettling realism to Dray’s desperate struggle. Fans of dystopian thrillers will appreciate the layered storytelling, the morally complex decisions, and the relentless pacing that keeps you breathless until the very last page.
For readers who crave intelligent, fast-paced sci-fi with deep emotional stakes, The Price of Freedom is a must-read. Bland delivers a stunning finale that cements this trilogy as a standout in the genre.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the opening pages, the tension is razor-sharp. Dray Quintero, once a rebel leader, is now a prisoner, tormented by the cries of his daughter, Raven. The rebellion has failed, the Agency is tightening its grip, and all hope seems lost. But when an unexpected opportunity for escape arises, Dray and Raven seize it—only to realize that freedom is an illusion unless they’re willing to fight for it.
Bland masterfully blends action, intrigue, and emotional depth, forcing Dray to confront impossible choices. Should he keep running, ensuring his daughter's survival, or take one final stand against a seemingly unstoppable force? The novel doesn’t just explore the physical cost of resistance but delves into the psychological warfare that comes with fighting for a better world.
The stakes have never been higher, and Bland ensures that every page brims with tension, surprises, and moments of profound introspection. The futuristic setting feels eerily plausible, adding an unsettling realism to Dray’s desperate struggle. Fans of dystopian thrillers will appreciate the layered storytelling, the morally complex decisions, and the relentless pacing that keeps you breathless until the very last page.
For readers who crave intelligent, fast-paced sci-fi with deep emotional stakes, The Price of Freedom is a must-read. Bland delivers a stunning finale that cements this trilogy as a standout in the genre.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 24, 2025
The Price of Freedom is a gripping, adrenaline-charged finale to The Price of trilogy by Michael C. Bland. Set in a hauntingly plausible 2047, the story follows rebel Dray Quintero as he escapes a high-security prison with his daughter Raven, only to realize freedom is still far from reach. The Agency, a totalitarian regime fueled by invasive technology, tightens its control, turning citizens into unwitting surveillance tools.
Bland masterfully blends fast-paced action, emotional depth, and scarily realistic technological developments. Dray is not your typical hero—he’s deeply flawed, scarred by regret, and driven by love for his family. This emotional core adds layers to an already high-stakes story. Characters like Zion Calloway and Agent Kieran aren’t just villains; they are nuanced and compelling, making every confrontation more intense.
What sets this book apart is its chilling portrayal of tech-fueled oppression, where implants control thoughts and blur the line between reality and manipulation. Themes of sacrifice, resistance, and moral complexity are woven throughout, prompting readers to question the true cost of security and freedom.
Even without reading the previous two books, Bland provides enough context to follow the story. However, readers who’ve followed Dray’s journey from the beginning will find this a powerful and satisfying conclusion. The emotional weight, relentless tension, and expertly crafted world make it a standout dystopian sci-fi.
The Price of Freedom is a must-read for fans of thought-provoking, near-future thrillers like 1984, Brave New World, and The Peripheral. Michael C. Bland delivers not just action, but heart—and a warning about the road ahead.
Thank you,
Happy Reading
Bland masterfully blends fast-paced action, emotional depth, and scarily realistic technological developments. Dray is not your typical hero—he’s deeply flawed, scarred by regret, and driven by love for his family. This emotional core adds layers to an already high-stakes story. Characters like Zion Calloway and Agent Kieran aren’t just villains; they are nuanced and compelling, making every confrontation more intense.
What sets this book apart is its chilling portrayal of tech-fueled oppression, where implants control thoughts and blur the line between reality and manipulation. Themes of sacrifice, resistance, and moral complexity are woven throughout, prompting readers to question the true cost of security and freedom.
Even without reading the previous two books, Bland provides enough context to follow the story. However, readers who’ve followed Dray’s journey from the beginning will find this a powerful and satisfying conclusion. The emotional weight, relentless tension, and expertly crafted world make it a standout dystopian sci-fi.
The Price of Freedom is a must-read for fans of thought-provoking, near-future thrillers like 1984, Brave New World, and The Peripheral. Michael C. Bland delivers not just action, but heart—and a warning about the road ahead.
Thank you,
Happy Reading
Read
May 6, 2025The Price of Freedom is the 3rd book in the series and right from the first page, it felt so realistic yet disturbing to imagine. Set in the 2030s, this book highlights the power of thoughts and how technological shifts and malicious intents can lead to harms and horror which reduce humans to mere machines and means.
We all emphasize that thoughts play a good role in shaping us but what if they are manipulated? Can you imagine the disasters they are capable of causing? Through this read, you seem to lose the boundary between speculative fiction and reality. Not only your actions are monitored but all the thoughts that come across your mind - how scary is that? This book made me feel uncomfortable. It wasn't a book which was smooth to read. But, surprisingly, I could agree and imagine vividly.
And, again, it sent down a shiver down my spine to imagine that each component of brain, how we think, how we analyze and prepare ourselves can be monitored and used against us.
While technology is a boon, it soon can be a horror we can't comprehend.
I was reminded of the situations during and post Covid while reading. I could also sense how freedom is limited and we are not choosers when it comes to the higher worldly powers.
I'm yet to finish this book but what made me write my thoughts is how it made sense with each sentence.
Page turner, truly! Unpredictable and very true for the current times and where we are heading.
We all emphasize that thoughts play a good role in shaping us but what if they are manipulated? Can you imagine the disasters they are capable of causing? Through this read, you seem to lose the boundary between speculative fiction and reality. Not only your actions are monitored but all the thoughts that come across your mind - how scary is that? This book made me feel uncomfortable. It wasn't a book which was smooth to read. But, surprisingly, I could agree and imagine vividly.
And, again, it sent down a shiver down my spine to imagine that each component of brain, how we think, how we analyze and prepare ourselves can be monitored and used against us.
While technology is a boon, it soon can be a horror we can't comprehend.
I was reminded of the situations during and post Covid while reading. I could also sense how freedom is limited and we are not choosers when it comes to the higher worldly powers.
I'm yet to finish this book but what made me write my thoughts is how it made sense with each sentence.
Page turner, truly! Unpredictable and very true for the current times and where we are heading.
April 8, 2025
Michael C. Bland writes a thrilling tale with The Price of Freedom
In The Price of Freedom, the reader is brought into the future. Welcome to 2047. And if you've read the other books in this series, you are familiar with Dray. If you haven't, what are you waiting form. The Price of Freedom is part of The Price of Trilogy, and this is volume three. I am a big fan of Michael C. Bland and want to read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. I recommend reading the books before this one and then read this one. I think this is my favorite one in the trilogy, but of course, I liked reading the ones before this one. Dray is a very complex character and is strong-willed. He is one of those unforgettable characters, and now, here he is, in his cell, examining the past, and wondering what is next. Is the Rebellion really demolished? This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. Both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. Sometimes you have to put the book down, just to take a breath. As always, very impressive story telling. The Price of Freedom is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
In The Price of Freedom, the reader is brought into the future. Welcome to 2047. And if you've read the other books in this series, you are familiar with Dray. If you haven't, what are you waiting form. The Price of Freedom is part of The Price of Trilogy, and this is volume three. I am a big fan of Michael C. Bland and want to read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. I recommend reading the books before this one and then read this one. I think this is my favorite one in the trilogy, but of course, I liked reading the ones before this one. Dray is a very complex character and is strong-willed. He is one of those unforgettable characters, and now, here he is, in his cell, examining the past, and wondering what is next. Is the Rebellion really demolished? This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. Both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. Sometimes you have to put the book down, just to take a breath. As always, very impressive story telling. The Price of Freedom is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
June 2, 2025
Written in the first person from the perspective of the rebel leader Dray Quintero this book is around eighty per cent fighting and action scenes. The problem with this is that without a strong impetus for fighting it lacks purpose. Like 1984, there is a fight for freedom against tyranny, but this book lacks Orwell’s ideological grounding and purpose that forms the backbone of the book.
There are some wonderful elements which in common with good science fiction, just take us beyond the bounds of current technology. The implants in the eyes are frightening, but not beyond augmented reality glasses. The hover bikes have been used in other works and the expanding webbing is a great tactical advantage, along with the sound disrupters. Robot warriors and nanites are a nod to Asimov and drone warfare is already proven.
Due to the large amount of fighting, there is little room for characterisation. The best developed characters are Dray’s family, his daughters, wife and girlfriend. Zion is a constant threat in the background, but we do not know enough about him. Kieran is a much better villain, but even he would benefit from more development.
The exposure and defeat of a tyrant is a fitting ending. There are some nice scenes and where there is more than just violence, such as the hospital and the train, sympathy and reader engagement arise.
There are some wonderful elements which in common with good science fiction, just take us beyond the bounds of current technology. The implants in the eyes are frightening, but not beyond augmented reality glasses. The hover bikes have been used in other works and the expanding webbing is a great tactical advantage, along with the sound disrupters. Robot warriors and nanites are a nod to Asimov and drone warfare is already proven.
Due to the large amount of fighting, there is little room for characterisation. The best developed characters are Dray’s family, his daughters, wife and girlfriend. Zion is a constant threat in the background, but we do not know enough about him. Kieran is a much better villain, but even he would benefit from more development.
The exposure and defeat of a tyrant is a fitting ending. There are some nice scenes and where there is more than just violence, such as the hospital and the train, sympathy and reader engagement arise.
April 25, 2025
Fast-Paced, Emotional Page-Turner
The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland is a fast-paced and emotional end to The Price of Trilogy. The story takes place in 2047, where the government uses advanced technology to control people’s thoughts and actions. Dray Quintero, once a brilliant engineer, is now a prisoner of the system he helped build. When he gets a chance to escape, he faces a hard choice between running to save himself or fighting back to free others. The book is a page-turner that's full of action, tension, and strong emotions. The future Bland imagines feels real and scary because it’s not too far from what we already see in today’s world.
I didn’t read the first two books, but I still enjoyed the story and was able to understand what was going on. What I liked most was how the author showed Dray’s struggle to do the right thing after making big mistakes in the past. He felt like a real person, not just a hero. The other characters, like his daughter and his enemies, also felt interesting and added to the story. You'll like the Price of Freedom if you enjoy stories about rebellion, family, and fighting back against a powerful system.
The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland is a fast-paced and emotional end to The Price of Trilogy. The story takes place in 2047, where the government uses advanced technology to control people’s thoughts and actions. Dray Quintero, once a brilliant engineer, is now a prisoner of the system he helped build. When he gets a chance to escape, he faces a hard choice between running to save himself or fighting back to free others. The book is a page-turner that's full of action, tension, and strong emotions. The future Bland imagines feels real and scary because it’s not too far from what we already see in today’s world.
I didn’t read the first two books, but I still enjoyed the story and was able to understand what was going on. What I liked most was how the author showed Dray’s struggle to do the right thing after making big mistakes in the past. He felt like a real person, not just a hero. The other characters, like his daughter and his enemies, also felt interesting and added to the story. You'll like the Price of Freedom if you enjoy stories about rebellion, family, and fighting back against a powerful system.
April 18, 2025
Step into a dystopian future with this action-packed novel.
The year is 2047, and America is run by a secretive sect known only as The Agency. We are introduced to Dray, who apparently was part of a rebellion which had been quelled, and was now imprisoned. We follow along as he makes a daring escape, before having to choose between running for his freedom, or fighting for the freedom of his country.
This was my first time reading a book from this series, and author Michael Bland did not disappoint. I was struck by how easily he could paint complex, vivid images in the mind. His forte is clearly building sceneries that spark your imagination using descriptive wording. Dray initially came off as more or less the classic muscle-bound action hero stereotype, until I learned more about him, and discovered his tragic family history, which added a layer of depth to him. The Agency, on its part, presented a challenging, imposing antagonist that adequately drove the plot forward.
All in all, this was an enjoyable action novel.
The year is 2047, and America is run by a secretive sect known only as The Agency. We are introduced to Dray, who apparently was part of a rebellion which had been quelled, and was now imprisoned. We follow along as he makes a daring escape, before having to choose between running for his freedom, or fighting for the freedom of his country.
This was my first time reading a book from this series, and author Michael Bland did not disappoint. I was struck by how easily he could paint complex, vivid images in the mind. His forte is clearly building sceneries that spark your imagination using descriptive wording. Dray initially came off as more or less the classic muscle-bound action hero stereotype, until I learned more about him, and discovered his tragic family history, which added a layer of depth to him. The Agency, on its part, presented a challenging, imposing antagonist that adequately drove the plot forward.
All in all, this was an enjoyable action novel.
January 19, 2025
I did not read the first books in the series but still found this to be an enjoyable read. Dray and his whole family are heavily involved in revolting against an old friend of his that has weaponized technology against the citizens of the US. He has made it so people are seeing things that aren't true. When Dray goes against him, he turns the table on him and makes it that he is the one doing the horrible acts. His youngest daughter is captured, so Dray and his older daughter try to rescue her, they are captured. Their brains and thought patterns are analyzed, so he can predict what the rebels will do. This he fights in some unusual ways and a way is found for them to all escape but that is not the end of them being pursued. Just how much they have figured out he will do is very scary.
Does he just go out of the country or some other path? Read and see what they have to do.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Does he just go out of the country or some other path? Read and see what they have to do.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2025
The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland
I started this trilogy in 2020. In my opinion, this current book didn’t have enough of a backstory. Admittedly, I prefer to wait until an entire trilogy is out and then read them all in order. With that said, a high-tech hijack of the United States is occurring. Dray, his family and friends are out to stop the coup.
The author does a good job of extrapolating the future of hologram, nanotechnology, and robotics. Sadly, he shows that ethics don’t evolve at the same pace as technology.
This book has a wealth of action and a modicum of sorrow and portrays a potential future dominated by the wealthy. In some ways, it is a concerning mirror to current events but since it takes several years for Bland to get a book out, I doubt that it intends to portray current events.
I enjoyed the book.
I started this trilogy in 2020. In my opinion, this current book didn’t have enough of a backstory. Admittedly, I prefer to wait until an entire trilogy is out and then read them all in order. With that said, a high-tech hijack of the United States is occurring. Dray, his family and friends are out to stop the coup.
The author does a good job of extrapolating the future of hologram, nanotechnology, and robotics. Sadly, he shows that ethics don’t evolve at the same pace as technology.
This book has a wealth of action and a modicum of sorrow and portrays a potential future dominated by the wealthy. In some ways, it is a concerning mirror to current events but since it takes several years for Bland to get a book out, I doubt that it intends to portray current events.
I enjoyed the book.
April 25, 2025
Honestly, this one kept me flipping pages way too late at night. It’s fast, sharp, and packed with moments that made me stop and go, “Wait, what?!”
From the get-go, the tension is palpable. It isn't just a physical journey but an emotional one for Dray, filled with dilemmas about survival, resistance, and the cost of freedom. Some tough choices, some heavy stuff, and a lot of ��oh no they didn’t” moments.
It’s gritty without being over the top, and there’s this tension running through the whole thing that makes it hard to put down.
If you’re into high-stakes sci-fi with heart and brains, this is it. Huge props to Michael Bland for sticking the landing on this one. Definitely worth the read.
From the get-go, the tension is palpable. It isn't just a physical journey but an emotional one for Dray, filled with dilemmas about survival, resistance, and the cost of freedom. Some tough choices, some heavy stuff, and a lot of ��oh no they didn’t” moments.
It’s gritty without being over the top, and there’s this tension running through the whole thing that makes it hard to put down.
If you’re into high-stakes sci-fi with heart and brains, this is it. Huge props to Michael Bland for sticking the landing on this one. Definitely worth the read.
April 29, 2025
The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland is a book that tells a story of a man called Dray. Initially he was fighting for the nation, then it turned to him just fighting to reunite his family. The story is set in such a futuristic world. People had implants in their heads that the people in power were using to spy on people to control them. This time Dray was on a mission to rescue his daughters after he found out where they were being held, even after his wife's betrayal. He had to rescue his family from Zion's bondage. This book shows a glimpse of the future and a world where people in power can really make it hard for people trying to advocate for their rights. The story is so intense it makes you feel like you're in it in real time.
May 21, 2025
Michael Bland's "The Price of Freedom" is a must read ending of the Dray Quintero series. This novel takes you through a futuristic world of action packed twists and turns that grips you and doesn't let you go. Bland's writing style of the chapters skillfully brings the reader to new surprises that keep the pages turning. This futuristic world captivates the imagination with thought-provoking current world threats, questioning "could something like this actually play out in the future?" Bland brings you to an unexpected surprise ending of the series, making the reader question... and want more!
April 22, 2025
This was a very exciting novel. I only wish I read the first two books in The Price Of trilogy. I found this to be deeper, and therefore more interesting and entertaining, than most sci-fi books. It had layers of meaning, but plenty of action to go with them.
I feel like the author wrote this very respectfully and straightforward, leaving out silly trails and unneeded language (besides the occasional S word). I enjoyed how he paced and formatted the story. I would read more from this author and would be keenly interested to see if he’s explored writing in any other genres.
I feel like the author wrote this very respectfully and straightforward, leaving out silly trails and unneeded language (besides the occasional S word). I enjoyed how he paced and formatted the story. I would read more from this author and would be keenly interested to see if he’s explored writing in any other genres.
February 28, 2025
With relentless pacing, thought-provoking twists, and a futuristic setting that feels eerily plausible, The Price of Freedom is a must-read for fans of dystopian sci-fi. Whether you’ve followed the series from the beginning or are jumping in for the first time, this thrilling conclusion will keep you on edge until the very last page. You can find my full review here: https://likelystory.blog/2025/02/27/r...
April 3, 2025
this had that element that I enjoyed from the previous two books in the Price of series. The concept was everything that I was looking for and enjoyed how good the plot of the book was. The characters had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed getting into this world with them. Michael C. Bland has a strong writing style and am excited for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2025
In some ways it almost felt like I was there. Couldn't put down. I cried at losses to the team. Celebrated little victories. Writer drew out emotions. Loved the gadgets and new tech. The villains were believable corrupted by power. Worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2025
If you’re into fast-paced sci-fi with a bit of heart and a lot of twists, The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland is the book to read. It’s sharp, wild, and keeps you guessing the whole way throughout.
The author does a great job in keeping the reader captivated throughout the book. A highly recommended book.
The author does a great job in keeping the reader captivated throughout the book. A highly recommended book.
April 22, 2025
Excellent read!! I can feel the pain and anguish of Mr. Blands characters. Truly could not put it down. Breathe taking action. Fitting end to the series…
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