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The Clean Slate Act
The Clean Slate Act is signed into law. Criminals can roam free—but at the cost of their memories.
The governing body of Lantros has devised a radical solution to combat overcrowded prisons: by erasing the memories of certain criminals and placing them back into society as Slaters. If they can’t remember their past, they’re no longer deemed dangerous. Shall they prove themselves good citizens in five years, they can choose to regain their memories or embrace their new life.
Years later, the president of Lantros vanishes and sends the nation into chaos. Four will navigate this world as power-hungry politicians tear the masses to shreds for control.
A new Slater who joins a heist eager to recover his memories.
A revolutionary with dark impulses who seeks the missing president.
A private eye haunted by the family he left behind.
A celebrity who hides his turmoil behind a golden smile.
Each has a decision to make: be a champion of the law or break it, lest they be burned by the torch that guides them—or by discovering a truth far more disturbing.
It's like A Clockwork Orange (but way less explicit) meets Her (but gay!)
The governing body of Lantros has devised a radical solution to combat overcrowded prisons: by erasing the memories of certain criminals and placing them back into society as Slaters. If they can’t remember their past, they’re no longer deemed dangerous. Shall they prove themselves good citizens in five years, they can choose to regain their memories or embrace their new life.
Years later, the president of Lantros vanishes and sends the nation into chaos. Four will navigate this world as power-hungry politicians tear the masses to shreds for control.
A new Slater who joins a heist eager to recover his memories.
A revolutionary with dark impulses who seeks the missing president.
A private eye haunted by the family he left behind.
A celebrity who hides his turmoil behind a golden smile.
Each has a decision to make: be a champion of the law or break it, lest they be burned by the torch that guides them—or by discovering a truth far more disturbing.
It's like A Clockwork Orange (but way less explicit) meets Her (but gay!)
442 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
August 14, 2025
This review is difficult to write because I know I'm reviewing an independently published author, and I don't want to spoil too much of the book.
This book as far as I'm aware wasn't a mlm romance, although it was included in a mlm romance list- and I'm not mad. I'm glad I bought this book because I don't think I would've bought it otherwise; and this is my new favourite book of the year. I didn't think a single book would be able to replace C.G Drews ; Don't let the forest in, but this has done it.
The world building is quite simply; a world that keeps giving. With the promise of a new story on the horizon, I'm very excited to have been one of the day ones kinda, for this book. I would highly recommend people buy this book to see for themselves.
Usually I hate multiple povs, especially if they aren't explicitly described as changing, which this book- kinda did- but the way that Wong introduces and changes scenes, is something of literary magic. It was smooth, the transition, from one scene to the next, and following on from wylder girls, this was a brilliant read. I also adore how this world kept giving. Be it the descriptions, the character arcs, the diversity, the politics- it was brilliant.
Absolutely brilliant. I didn't know at any point of the story what was going to happen next. I was hit with shock after shock- and the good kind. Please consider getting this book and supporting the author. I highly rate it.
Reviews mentioned in this review:
Before notes:
Was waiting for payday and it finally arrived!
I've ordered this book through amazon, after I came across this authors Youtube channel. I just want to say I very rarely come across authors who write mlm, but also dystopian which is a niche I'm getting into, but also its very nice to see an author who recommends stuff that isn't everywhere on booktube. So I'm extremely glad to not only be a proud owner of a book by someone who knows the books they discuss, but also has released their debut album. I'm nervous because not many people have read it but I want to put my money where my mouth is and support small creators.
My goal is to fall in love with reading again. I'm hoping I will both fall in love with this book but also the books he recommended in other shorts on youtube that got added to my tbr list after he gave me a short snippet.
I believe in owning paperbacks where are the paperback boys and girls and enby's at?
This book as far as I'm aware wasn't a mlm romance, although it was included in a mlm romance list- and I'm not mad. I'm glad I bought this book because I don't think I would've bought it otherwise; and this is my new favourite book of the year. I didn't think a single book would be able to replace C.G Drews ; Don't let the forest in, but this has done it.
The world building is quite simply; a world that keeps giving. With the promise of a new story on the horizon, I'm very excited to have been one of the day ones kinda, for this book. I would highly recommend people buy this book to see for themselves.
Usually I hate multiple povs, especially if they aren't explicitly described as changing, which this book- kinda did- but the way that Wong introduces and changes scenes, is something of literary magic. It was smooth, the transition, from one scene to the next, and following on from wylder girls, this was a brilliant read. I also adore how this world kept giving. Be it the descriptions, the character arcs, the diversity, the politics- it was brilliant.
Absolutely brilliant. I didn't know at any point of the story what was going to happen next. I was hit with shock after shock- and the good kind. Please consider getting this book and supporting the author. I highly rate it.
Reviews mentioned in this review:
Before notes:
Was waiting for payday and it finally arrived!
I've ordered this book through amazon, after I came across this authors Youtube channel. I just want to say I very rarely come across authors who write mlm, but also dystopian which is a niche I'm getting into, but also its very nice to see an author who recommends stuff that isn't everywhere on booktube. So I'm extremely glad to not only be a proud owner of a book by someone who knows the books they discuss, but also has released their debut album. I'm nervous because not many people have read it but I want to put my money where my mouth is and support small creators.
My goal is to fall in love with reading again. I'm hoping I will both fall in love with this book but also the books he recommended in other shorts on youtube that got added to my tbr list after he gave me a short snippet.
I believe in owning paperbacks where are the paperback boys and girls and enby's at?
March 5, 2025
Andy Wong's The Clean Slate Act is a compelling dystopian sci-fi novel that examines a society where select criminals undergo memory erasure before being reintegrated into the community. Five years later, they face a pivotal decision: reclaim their past or continue their new life.
Both captivating and unsettling, the novel challenges readers’ perceptions of justice, morality, and identity. Drawing from my background in philosophy. i respect how Wong weaves profound questions about crime, free will, and societal discrimination into a narrative that mirrors contemporary debates on criminal reform. His depiction of a society grappling with radical approaches to justice feels eerily relevant to modern discussions on punishment and rehabilitation.
The novel’s exploration of memory, identity, and second chances adds depth to its dystopian premise, making it a thought-provoking addition to the genre. Wong’s ability to balance complex moral dilemmas with an engaging storyline elevates The Clean Slate Act beyond standard dystopian fiction.
By delving into the ethical implications of memory manipulation as a solution to prison overcrowding and recidivism, Wong invites readers to reflect on the nature of punishment, redemption, and the boundaries of human rights.
In conclusion, The Clean Slate Act is a timely and intellectually stimulating read, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about crime and rehabilitation. Its blend of philosophical inquiry and gripping storytelling makes it a standout in contemporary speculative fiction.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both captivating and unsettling, the novel challenges readers’ perceptions of justice, morality, and identity. Drawing from my background in philosophy. i respect how Wong weaves profound questions about crime, free will, and societal discrimination into a narrative that mirrors contemporary debates on criminal reform. His depiction of a society grappling with radical approaches to justice feels eerily relevant to modern discussions on punishment and rehabilitation.
The novel’s exploration of memory, identity, and second chances adds depth to its dystopian premise, making it a thought-provoking addition to the genre. Wong’s ability to balance complex moral dilemmas with an engaging storyline elevates The Clean Slate Act beyond standard dystopian fiction.
By delving into the ethical implications of memory manipulation as a solution to prison overcrowding and recidivism, Wong invites readers to reflect on the nature of punishment, redemption, and the boundaries of human rights.
In conclusion, The Clean Slate Act is a timely and intellectually stimulating read, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about crime and rehabilitation. Its blend of philosophical inquiry and gripping storytelling makes it a standout in contemporary speculative fiction.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2025
A Frightening Do-Over . . .
Imagine waking up and not knowing where you are or what’s going on… or even knowing who you are. The author lets us share that panic with this mystery man who is disoriented and confused. Most important to him at the moment is that he has a name, an identity. Hayden Brisk. The older man talking to him is Allen Elverett and he begins to tell him about the Clean Slate Act designed to reduce the population in the overcrowded prison system. A criminal’s memories are wiped to give him a second chance back in society, a new start. But how will those who knew you before this change react to you? Can the slate really be clean if you are the only one whose memories are gone? And the other piece of the puzzle is presented when he is told that a chip exists with all of his previous memories, basically containing his entire life up to now. And, with good behavior for a period of 5 years, he can choose to restore his previous life memories and know everything that brought him to this point… or he can continue living his new life and being the best he can be. As you read Hayden’s story, put yourself in that world and consider all the consequences and possibilities, both good and bad. But what if something goes wrong… because bad people are still out there in the world.
Imagine waking up and not knowing where you are or what’s going on… or even knowing who you are. The author lets us share that panic with this mystery man who is disoriented and confused. Most important to him at the moment is that he has a name, an identity. Hayden Brisk. The older man talking to him is Allen Elverett and he begins to tell him about the Clean Slate Act designed to reduce the population in the overcrowded prison system. A criminal’s memories are wiped to give him a second chance back in society, a new start. But how will those who knew you before this change react to you? Can the slate really be clean if you are the only one whose memories are gone? And the other piece of the puzzle is presented when he is told that a chip exists with all of his previous memories, basically containing his entire life up to now. And, with good behavior for a period of 5 years, he can choose to restore his previous life memories and know everything that brought him to this point… or he can continue living his new life and being the best he can be. As you read Hayden’s story, put yourself in that world and consider all the consequences and possibilities, both good and bad. But what if something goes wrong… because bad people are still out there in the world.
February 19, 2025
Andy Wong’s The Clean Slate Act is a gripping dystopian sci-fi novel that raises thought-provoking questions about crime, free will, and discrimination. Set in a future where criminals have their memories wiped clean as a form of rehabilitation, the novel explores both the moral and societal implications of such a system through multiple pov characters interacting with the system in different ways.
from the get-go, Wong immerses readers in a futuristic setting that longs to appear utopian but cannot conceal its cracks. Hayden, a new Slater—the term for folks who have undergone the memory wipe—is thrust unceremoniously into a world he is not prepared for and doesn't understand. What follows is a fast-paced, engaging narrative, with strong characters and several twists.
The Clean Slate Act succeeds in setting up a thrilling and complex world, and by the third act, it is obvious that Wong is laying the groundwork for a larger saga. Certain characters and subplots, though intriguing, beg to be explored further in future installments.
Overall, The Clean Slate Act is a fascinating and unsettling read that challenges the reader’s perceptions of justice and morality. With its poignant, topical themes and high-stakes storytelling, it’s a bold debut from Andy Wong.
from the get-go, Wong immerses readers in a futuristic setting that longs to appear utopian but cannot conceal its cracks. Hayden, a new Slater—the term for folks who have undergone the memory wipe—is thrust unceremoniously into a world he is not prepared for and doesn't understand. What follows is a fast-paced, engaging narrative, with strong characters and several twists.
The Clean Slate Act succeeds in setting up a thrilling and complex world, and by the third act, it is obvious that Wong is laying the groundwork for a larger saga. Certain characters and subplots, though intriguing, beg to be explored further in future installments.
Overall, The Clean Slate Act is a fascinating and unsettling read that challenges the reader’s perceptions of justice and morality. With its poignant, topical themes and high-stakes storytelling, it’s a bold debut from Andy Wong.
February 27, 2025
Wow, just wow, no, not just wow, above wow. Who are we? Are we who we choose to be or do our actions and past shape our future completely? Is there such a thing as a clean slate? Is forgetting the only way forward? Is it worth it? And I you forget, but others don’t, does it mean you still get to have a new life or will the memories that others have of you shape you and your future? These questions are what kept coming to mind while reading this masterpiece, and I highly recommend it to anyone, because there are so many things that this book makes you think about, it’s beyond entertaining.
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 24, 2025
I don't read sci-fi darker themed books but my friend recommended this to me because of the depth of the world and the character bonds. IT. DELIVERED!!!
the concept of slaters is such an interesting concept and really makes you think how would you take on that situation - in any of the characters situations really. Loved the psychology questioning of human nature.
the concept of slaters is such an interesting concept and really makes you think how would you take on that situation - in any of the characters situations really. Loved the psychology questioning of human nature.
March 19, 2026
This book offers a premise like no other, supported by excellent world building and strong writing. The use of multiple POVs was handled really well and added depth to the story.
Overall, this was an impressive debut novel, and I’m already hoping for a sequel.
Overall, this was an impressive debut novel, and I’m already hoping for a sequel.
March 1, 2025
Probably more like a 1 based on personal enjoyment, but I want to support this author's endeavors.
Please note: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have to respect the author for managing to write a social commentary that was well-thought-out and sincere, while also juggling a wide range of characters and side plots. This felt episodic. But unfortunately, I didn't resonate with it. The dialogue (both the inner and outer) felt stilted, and the world didn't convince me. I also have to say that I think it was too long. As an author myself, I do have to show respect for how much passion and care went into the project. The cover is also gorgeous. Perhaps, this isn't my genre and I encourage those who enjoy Science Fiction or the show Severance to give it a shot.
Please note: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have to respect the author for managing to write a social commentary that was well-thought-out and sincere, while also juggling a wide range of characters and side plots. This felt episodic. But unfortunately, I didn't resonate with it. The dialogue (both the inner and outer) felt stilted, and the world didn't convince me. I also have to say that I think it was too long. As an author myself, I do have to show respect for how much passion and care went into the project. The cover is also gorgeous. Perhaps, this isn't my genre and I encourage those who enjoy Science Fiction or the show Severance to give it a shot.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews