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CORE Deception: CORE Series Book One
A Tyrannical Government
A Cryptic Letter
A Devious Hacker
In a world where the government’s CORE systems see and track everyone, seventeen-year-old hacker Seth Alvarez is determined to save his sister from being placed in a reeducation facility. Armed with a cryptic letter, Seth embarks on a search for the valuable incognito devices—cyber master keys that can set his sister free. But with only three weeks remaining, he finds himself wedged between two powerful forces who will stop at nothing to get the devices first.
A Cryptic Letter
A Devious Hacker
In a world where the government’s CORE systems see and track everyone, seventeen-year-old hacker Seth Alvarez is determined to save his sister from being placed in a reeducation facility. Armed with a cryptic letter, Seth embarks on a search for the valuable incognito devices—cyber master keys that can set his sister free. But with only three weeks remaining, he finds himself wedged between two powerful forces who will stop at nothing to get the devices first.
394 pages, Hardcover
Published November 2, 2024
2 people are currently reading
787 people want to read
About the author
Jeremiah Friedli
3 books229 followersGet a free novella when you join Jeremiah's email list!
Author of the CORE Series and the 2025 Realm Awards Finalist CORE Deception, Jeremiah Friedli is a homeschool graduate, lifelong writer, ice cream lover, and native Texan who can imagine danger just about anywhere and anytime. He enjoys getting out in God’s creation, whether that’s hiking, camping, running, or just reading quietly on the porch. His favorite books—the kind he loves to write—are those annoyingly good page-turners that keep him up long after he really should have gone to bed. When he’s not browsing grocery stores for the latest deals on Blue Bell ice cream and frozen pizza, you might find him seated behind a large screen with one of his beloved spreadsheets or watching a movie with his family. Learn more and connect with him at jeremiahfriedli.com.
Author of the CORE Series and the 2025 Realm Awards Finalist CORE Deception, Jeremiah Friedli is a homeschool graduate, lifelong writer, ice cream lover, and native Texan who can imagine danger just about anywhere and anytime. He enjoys getting out in God’s creation, whether that’s hiking, camping, running, or just reading quietly on the porch. His favorite books—the kind he loves to write—are those annoyingly good page-turners that keep him up long after he really should have gone to bed. When he’s not browsing grocery stores for the latest deals on Blue Bell ice cream and frozen pizza, you might find him seated behind a large screen with one of his beloved spreadsheets or watching a movie with his family. Learn more and connect with him at jeremiahfriedli.com.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
February 26, 2025
CORE Deception by Jeremiah Friedli is a thrilling young adult sci-fi novel that pulses with tension and heart. This gripping tale follows 17-year-old hacker Seth as he battles a dystopian government to save his sister, armed only with a cryptic letter and his wits. Friedli crafts a world where every shadow hides a threat, and every choice teeters on the edge of disaster.
What sets this novel apart is its blend of high-stakes action and faith-based values. Seth’s courage isn’t just fueled by desperation—it’s anchored in a quiet, resolute belief in something greater. Friedli doesn’t preach. Instead, he lets Seth learn to lean on God as the story progresses.
The pacing balances intense hacking sequences with moments of reflection. For fans of dystopian thrillers with soul, CORE Deception delivers both excitement and inspiration.
What sets this novel apart is its blend of high-stakes action and faith-based values. Seth’s courage isn’t just fueled by desperation—it’s anchored in a quiet, resolute belief in something greater. Friedli doesn’t preach. Instead, he lets Seth learn to lean on God as the story progresses.
The pacing balances intense hacking sequences with moments of reflection. For fans of dystopian thrillers with soul, CORE Deception delivers both excitement and inspiration.
March 13, 2025
CORE Deception is an intriguing story with a plot that keeps you engaged. The characters are well-developed and the writing is easy to follow, making it a great choice for teenage readers who enjoy suspenseful storytelling. I highly recommend CORE Deception.
March 5, 2025
CORE Deception grabbed my attention and wouldn't let go. I don't normally read dystopian, but the whole premise intrigued me - a future ice age limiting life to the areas near the equator, people being almost completely controlled by a corrupt government, and a pair of well-meaning teenagers with hacking abilities and connections with the resistance. I appreciated how clean the book was and that the main character made clear, but not in-your-face references to Christian morals. I recommend this novel to teens and adults who love a YA-sized serving of suspense and adventure.
October 21, 2025
I can't wait for the sequel! I hear this is the 2nd book of the series and I'll have to check it out. Nevertheless, this book is well written and stand-alone. I love it is written in first-person and he alternates points of view by chapters. Jhalak comes in at Chapter 7, giving enough time to get to know the protagonists well before she comes into play.
I'm still curious about the CE Ice Age. I looked up how Hawaii was affected by previous Ice Ages and there is evidence that there were glaciers on Hawaii in the past. Good job!
I'm still curious about the CE Ice Age. I looked up how Hawaii was affected by previous Ice Ages and there is evidence that there were glaciers on Hawaii in the past. Good job!
July 11, 2025
Great story
Really puts an ice age into perspective with modern technology and humans fighting for control in the warmest parts of the earth. Fascinating storyline that pulls a person in despite the long chapters at times. I read in 3 sittings. Christian perspective with a few verses/stories in to really bring in the feelings of the teens.
Really puts an ice age into perspective with modern technology and humans fighting for control in the warmest parts of the earth. Fascinating storyline that pulls a person in despite the long chapters at times. I read in 3 sittings. Christian perspective with a few verses/stories in to really bring in the feelings of the teens.
May 14, 2025
Great story! Great writing! I enjoyed every minute of it.
September 28, 2025
This is a great book I would recommend to anyone. There is no sex, drinking, or drugs. It makes you think about what could be in the future.
Darlene
Darlene
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews