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A billion years in the future, humanity is extinct.
But Shakespeare remains.
A machine civilization, so far advanced that it has the power to recreate lost civilizations, stumbles upon the works of the playwright, William Shakespeare.
With only those plays to represent humanity, the machines must decide whether humanity is worth resurrecting or not.
The only way to know the plays is to stage them.
Enter J-9, although she prefers to be called Janine. She is a human-like construct, created by the machines, to enter and experience the plays of Shakespeare, as they run in simulation, indistinguishable from reality.
Based on Janine’s impressions of humanity, drawn from her experiences of living within the unfolding plays, the machines will render their is humanity worth saving or shall we be consigned to oblivion?
The stakes are higher than the Bard could have ever imagined.
Created by Ted Neill, the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare remains true to the plots of William Shakespeare’s plays while introducing stage directions that make the text more accessible to modern readers. The addition of Janine as an outsider looking in—and caught up in her own story framing the action of the plays—provides commentary and insight usually buried in academic papers but delivered here with heart and humor. It’s an original take on classic plays that will remind readers why the plays endure five hundred, and maybe five billion, years after they were written.
Traditionally, Shakespeare’s plays, do not need to be read in a particular order. These “simulations,” do have an order, especially as Janine’s story evolves with them.
Simulation NightAs You Like ItA Mid-Summer Night’s DreamMuch Ado About NothingTaming of the ShrewRomeo & JulietCymbelineThe TempestMacBethRichard IIITroilus & CressidaPericlesKing LearJulius CesarAnthony & Cleopatra
But Shakespeare remains.
A machine civilization, so far advanced that it has the power to recreate lost civilizations, stumbles upon the works of the playwright, William Shakespeare.
With only those plays to represent humanity, the machines must decide whether humanity is worth resurrecting or not.
The only way to know the plays is to stage them.
Enter J-9, although she prefers to be called Janine. She is a human-like construct, created by the machines, to enter and experience the plays of Shakespeare, as they run in simulation, indistinguishable from reality.
Based on Janine’s impressions of humanity, drawn from her experiences of living within the unfolding plays, the machines will render their is humanity worth saving or shall we be consigned to oblivion?
The stakes are higher than the Bard could have ever imagined.
Created by Ted Neill, the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare remains true to the plots of William Shakespeare’s plays while introducing stage directions that make the text more accessible to modern readers. The addition of Janine as an outsider looking in—and caught up in her own story framing the action of the plays—provides commentary and insight usually buried in academic papers but delivered here with heart and humor. It’s an original take on classic plays that will remind readers why the plays endure five hundred, and maybe five billion, years after they were written.
Traditionally, Shakespeare’s plays, do not need to be read in a particular order. These “simulations,” do have an order, especially as Janine’s story evolves with them.
Simulation NightAs You Like ItA Mid-Summer Night’s DreamMuch Ado About NothingTaming of the ShrewRomeo & JulietCymbelineThe TempestMacBethRichard IIITroilus & CressidaPericlesKing LearJulius CesarAnthony & Cleopatra
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2025
5 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Ted Neill
92 books74 followersGlobetrotter and writer Ted Neill has worked on five continents as an educator, health professional, and journalist. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Recovery Today, and he has published a number of novels exploring issues related to science, religion, class, and social justice. He is the 2013 winner of the Martin Luther King Jr. Torch of Peace Award. His 2017 novel, The Selah Branch, attempts to confront issues of racism and the divided political environment of the US today and the 1950s. His debut novel, City on a Hill, examines the fault lines of religious conflict in the Middle East. His most novel, Reaper Moon, takes place against the backdrop of a global virus pandemic and how the aftermath unfolds along familiar social divides of race and politics. His most recent young adult novel is, Zombies, Frat Boys, Monster Flash Mobs & Other Terrifying Things I Saw at the Gates of Hell Cotillion, doesn’t need a blurb, the title says it all.
He is also author of two award winning memoirs, Two Years of Wonder which chronicles his time living and working at an orphanage for children with HIV/AIDS and Finding St. Lo a combined account of his grandfather Robert Fowler’s WWII experience as well as a decorated medic in his unit, Gordon Cross. Follow Ted on Facebook and Instagram @therealauthortedneill
He is also author of two award winning memoirs, Two Years of Wonder which chronicles his time living and working at an orphanage for children with HIV/AIDS and Finding St. Lo a combined account of his grandfather Robert Fowler’s WWII experience as well as a decorated medic in his unit, Gordon Cross. Follow Ted on Facebook and Instagram @therealauthortedneill
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
July 7, 2025
Set a billion years into the future, Othello: Book 2 of the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series presents a universe where humanity has disappeared, but Shakespeare's plays still hold weight. A civilization of machines equipped to simulate entire realities stumbles upon these works and decides to evaluate humanity's worth through them. To do this, they create Janine, a sentient, human-like construct who experiences these simulations and reports back. In this book, Janine enters Othello and forms a close connection with a reimagined Ophelia. Together, they navigate themes of love, betrayal, jealousy, and manipulation—viewing the drama with fresh eyes. While the play unfolds in a stunning, futuristic version of Venice and Cyprus, Janine's reactions and reflections offer unique insights into both human emotion and Shakespearean depth. Her experiences slowly build toward one central question: Is humanity worth saving?
Review: Ted Neill's Othello delivers an impressive, futuristic twist on a classic tragedy. The book cover art smartly combines elements of classic literature with a post-apocalyptic, sci-fi vibe, creating a visually striking narrative that hints at an imaginative reimagining of Shakespeare's work.
The structure of the story keeps things tight, starting at a fast pace, exploring thoughtful themes in the middle, and ending dramatically with emotional grounding. The addition of Janine and Ophelia injects new life into the narrative, allowing Shakespeare to be experienced as more than just a performance. The vivid futuristic setting, complete with ziplines and mechanical cities, adds depth without overshadowing the original plot. Neill's writing strikes a solid balance—everything feels smart yet easy to read, rich in emotion without being too heavy-handed.
One minor downside is that some scenes, particularly the philosophical musings, may slow things down for those who crave more action. Still, these moments also enhance the book's emotional impact. This novel is ideal for readers who enjoy genre mashups, particularly fans of speculative fiction, literary retellings, and philosophical sci-fi.
A 4-star rating reflects its creativity, originality, and emotional richness, with a star reserved for occasional dips in pacing. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys classic stories told in fresh, radical ways.
Review: Ted Neill's Othello delivers an impressive, futuristic twist on a classic tragedy. The book cover art smartly combines elements of classic literature with a post-apocalyptic, sci-fi vibe, creating a visually striking narrative that hints at an imaginative reimagining of Shakespeare's work.
The structure of the story keeps things tight, starting at a fast pace, exploring thoughtful themes in the middle, and ending dramatically with emotional grounding. The addition of Janine and Ophelia injects new life into the narrative, allowing Shakespeare to be experienced as more than just a performance. The vivid futuristic setting, complete with ziplines and mechanical cities, adds depth without overshadowing the original plot. Neill's writing strikes a solid balance—everything feels smart yet easy to read, rich in emotion without being too heavy-handed.
One minor downside is that some scenes, particularly the philosophical musings, may slow things down for those who crave more action. Still, these moments also enhance the book's emotional impact. This novel is ideal for readers who enjoy genre mashups, particularly fans of speculative fiction, literary retellings, and philosophical sci-fi.
A 4-star rating reflects its creativity, originality, and emotional richness, with a star reserved for occasional dips in pacing. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys classic stories told in fresh, radical ways.
July 3, 2025
Othello: Book 2 of the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series by Ted Neill is a bold and inventive reimagining of a Shakespearean classic through a futuristic lens. Set in a far-off future where advanced machines simulate Shakespeare's plays to evaluate the worthiness of resurrecting humanity, the story follows Janine—a sentient, human-like construct—tasked with living through the plays and interpreting their human truths. In this installment, she steps into the world of Othello, navigating the themes of jealousy, love, and betrayal alongside a reimagined Ophelia. The fusion of classic drama with sci-fi storytelling is both clever and emotionally engaging, allowing readers to see familiar characters and themes in a completely new way.
Janine’s evolving awareness and her bond with Ophelia are at the heart of the story, adding emotional weight to the simulated world. Neill’s writing remains faithful to the original Shakespearean plot while enhancing accessibility with modernized stage directions and insightful character commentary. The futuristic settings—complete with mechanical cities and post-human conflicts—bring a fresh texture to the timeless play. Though a few moments may feel philosophically dense, the overall experience is thoughtful, immersive, and thoroughly unique. This book is a strong continuation of the series and a treat for both fans of Shakespeare and lovers of intelligent science fiction.
Janine’s evolving awareness and her bond with Ophelia are at the heart of the story, adding emotional weight to the simulated world. Neill’s writing remains faithful to the original Shakespearean plot while enhancing accessibility with modernized stage directions and insightful character commentary. The futuristic settings—complete with mechanical cities and post-human conflicts—bring a fresh texture to the timeless play. Though a few moments may feel philosophically dense, the overall experience is thoughtful, immersive, and thoroughly unique. This book is a strong continuation of the series and a treat for both fans of Shakespeare and lovers of intelligent science fiction.
June 30, 2025
Thoughtful Retelling of Shakespeare in a Futuristic World
This is not my first Ted Neil book, and I must say the language, background, theme, and the way characters are shown through different emotions provide a rich and detailed experience in Othello: Book 2 of the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series. The pace of the dialogue is intriguing and lively, starting with Ophelia and Janine. It feels like a theatrical tribute to the works of Shakespeare.
I liked the story building, especially the character of Ophelia, who is innocent in the new world. Her development, how she was saved, and her relationship with Janine are very touching. The story shows how humanity survives in a future filled with infection. The advanced society and its challenges are interesting, and the plays in the background set in Venice and Cyprus are well done.
What I love about Neil’s writing is how he narrates every event in detail without making it boring. All the characters show growth, especially Janine, who is strong-willed and also shows compassion in her bond with Ophelia.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is beautifully written, and the themes are well presented. I look forward to more books from Ted Neil. Thumbs up from me.
This is not my first Ted Neil book, and I must say the language, background, theme, and the way characters are shown through different emotions provide a rich and detailed experience in Othello: Book 2 of the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series. The pace of the dialogue is intriguing and lively, starting with Ophelia and Janine. It feels like a theatrical tribute to the works of Shakespeare.
I liked the story building, especially the character of Ophelia, who is innocent in the new world. Her development, how she was saved, and her relationship with Janine are very touching. The story shows how humanity survives in a future filled with infection. The advanced society and its challenges are interesting, and the plays in the background set in Venice and Cyprus are well done.
What I love about Neil’s writing is how he narrates every event in detail without making it boring. All the characters show growth, especially Janine, who is strong-willed and also shows compassion in her bond with Ophelia.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is beautifully written, and the themes are well presented. I look forward to more books from Ted Neil. Thumbs up from me.
July 9, 2025
Ted Neill’s Othello: Book 2 of the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series was indeed a page-turner. I had not envisioned that this read will be this interesting! The story is really engaging to say the least. Ted’s style of writing allows the reader to fully immerse themselves into the series of events in the story. This ensures that one gets roped into the characters and allows devotion to their fates.
I loved that there is an introduction of the characters at the beginning of the book and their relations to one another. This makes it easier for the reader to follow through with the story and also acts as a point of reference in case of any confusion. A lot of emotions are evident in this read ranging from anger, love, compassion, jealousy and so on. One character that really put me on the edge was Iago. He exuded jealousy that would make anyone irritable. I feel that he brought some sought of balance in the story in that there was conflict. I think that it also keeps the reader desiring to know the outcome.
The writer has also done a good job of describing upcoming scenes effectively so as to prepare the reader. If you love science fiction, this is the book that you should read next!
I loved that there is an introduction of the characters at the beginning of the book and their relations to one another. This makes it easier for the reader to follow through with the story and also acts as a point of reference in case of any confusion. A lot of emotions are evident in this read ranging from anger, love, compassion, jealousy and so on. One character that really put me on the edge was Iago. He exuded jealousy that would make anyone irritable. I feel that he brought some sought of balance in the story in that there was conflict. I think that it also keeps the reader desiring to know the outcome.
The writer has also done a good job of describing upcoming scenes effectively so as to prepare the reader. If you love science fiction, this is the book that you should read next!
July 3, 2025
What a wildly unique concept. I enjoy Ted Neill's ability to bring such intriguing premises to readers of all ages, backgrounds, and education. And who knew you could make Shakespeare so relevant again!
I appreciated that the story, at its heart, is a bout humanity and whether or not we should be resigned to oblivion. An interesting avenue through which to introduce Shakespeare and this humanity. I imagine there are a lot of younger readers (and even adults!) who don't have a lot of experience with the original works of Shakespeare beyond Romeo and Juliet. So, directly tying our fate to these works is a fascinating concept.
Can Shakespeare's ability to display, describe, and emote the human experience be enough to save us all from utter darkness? Can a sentient, humanoid machine engage in the experience on a human enough level to save us from our relegated state?
Ted Neill explores such human themes and narrates them with absolute precision. I appreciate his voice, and I look forward to more futuristic Shakespeare! I would highly suggest this read for teens and adults alike.
I appreciated that the story, at its heart, is a bout humanity and whether or not we should be resigned to oblivion. An interesting avenue through which to introduce Shakespeare and this humanity. I imagine there are a lot of younger readers (and even adults!) who don't have a lot of experience with the original works of Shakespeare beyond Romeo and Juliet. So, directly tying our fate to these works is a fascinating concept.
Can Shakespeare's ability to display, describe, and emote the human experience be enough to save us all from utter darkness? Can a sentient, humanoid machine engage in the experience on a human enough level to save us from our relegated state?
Ted Neill explores such human themes and narrates them with absolute precision. I appreciate his voice, and I look forward to more futuristic Shakespeare! I would highly suggest this read for teens and adults alike.
July 3, 2025
Othello: Book 2 of the Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series by Ted Neill is a brilliant fusion of classic literature and futuristic sci-fi. Set a billion years into the future, the book follows Janine, a human-like construct, as she experiences Shakespeare's Othello within a hyper-realistic simulation created by machines. Neill’s writing effortlessly balances Shakespeare’s original plot with creative world-building and emotional depth.
What stands out most is Janine’s evolving humanity as she navigates betrayal, love, and manipulation alongside Ophelia, whose innocence and growth add further emotional richness. The futuristic setting of Venice and Cyprus, filled with infection and mechanical societies, creates a thrilling backdrop for the timeless drama.
Neill’s storytelling is both thoughtful and entertaining, making Shakespeare's work accessible and relevant, even in a post-human future. For fans of classic plays and science fiction alike, this is a must-read.
Thank you,
Happy Reading!
What stands out most is Janine’s evolving humanity as she navigates betrayal, love, and manipulation alongside Ophelia, whose innocence and growth add further emotional richness. The futuristic setting of Venice and Cyprus, filled with infection and mechanical societies, creates a thrilling backdrop for the timeless drama.
Neill’s storytelling is both thoughtful and entertaining, making Shakespeare's work accessible and relevant, even in a post-human future. For fans of classic plays and science fiction alike, this is a must-read.
Thank you,
Happy Reading!
July 6, 2025
Shakespeare in a post-apocalyptic space setting? Sounds a bit wild. But honestly? It works!
Ted Neill took the bones of the original Othello and gave it a whole new life, one with, tech, grit, and high-stakes drama. You’ve still got the core tragedy, jealousy, manipulation, love, betrayal… but now it’s wrapped up in this gritty sci-fi vibe that somehow makes it hit even harder.
Iago is still the worst (in the best way), Othello’s still powerful and tragic, and Desdemona? She shines in this version too. The language blends classic lines with modern dialogue, so you’re not stuck decoding old English for 200 pages.
If you're into Shakespeare and sci-fi, this is honestly a blast. Even if you're not a hardcore Shakespeare fan, this version makes the story feel fresh and way more relatable.
Give it a shot, you might be surprised how well 400-year-old drama fits in sci fi.
Ted Neill took the bones of the original Othello and gave it a whole new life, one with, tech, grit, and high-stakes drama. You’ve still got the core tragedy, jealousy, manipulation, love, betrayal… but now it’s wrapped up in this gritty sci-fi vibe that somehow makes it hit even harder.
Iago is still the worst (in the best way), Othello’s still powerful and tragic, and Desdemona? She shines in this version too. The language blends classic lines with modern dialogue, so you’re not stuck decoding old English for 200 pages.
If you're into Shakespeare and sci-fi, this is honestly a blast. Even if you're not a hardcore Shakespeare fan, this version makes the story feel fresh and way more relatable.
Give it a shot, you might be surprised how well 400-year-old drama fits in sci fi.
July 6, 2025
Neill continues his Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series in this second installment following Shakespeare's play of Othello. Picking up where the previous volume ended, human-like construct Janine, continues to observe human nature through realistic simulations of Shakespeare's works. This time, Janine enters the world of Othello, where she navigates the themes of manipulation, love, and betrayal. In addition to her owl sidekick Otto, Janine is also joined by a reimagined version of Ophelia. Neill remains true to the play's original text, with commentary from Janine and Ophelia giving an outsiders perspective on the play. Neill's creative take includes futuristic elements, such as Janine and Ophelia ziplining through medieval Venice in the opening scene. Equally entertaining as it is immersive, sci-fi fans and Shakespeare lovers will enjoy this.
June 29, 2025
I read the first book in Ted Neill’s Apocalyptic Shakespeare series, and this second book did not disappoint. Once again, Ted puts a unique spin on one of Shakespeare’s classic works. We open with our main characters from the future zipping through medieval Venice on ziplines, parkour style, before being introduced to Othello and Iago. I enjoyed watching Janine learn about human manipulation through this play. Ted displays her character development well, from sentient robot with no knowledge of humanity, to someone who is now almost human in her reactions and habits. It is also refreshing reading Janine and Ophelia’s commentary on the play as outsiders with no prior knowledge of it.
July 3, 2025
Othello: Book 2 of the Post-Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series is a stunning reimagining of a timeless tragedy. Ted Neill masterfully transports Shakespeare’s powerful tale of love, jealousy, and betrayal into a gritty, post-apocalyptic universe without losing the original’s emotional depth. The dialogue remains true to the Bard’s voice, while the futuristic setting adds a thrilling new layer of meaning and relevance. This is not just a retelling—it’s a bold, creative expansion of the classic. A perfect read for lovers of Shakespeare and fans of science fiction alike. I couldn’t put it down!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews