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First Blades #1
Rising Thunder
Not yet published
Expected 1 Dec 26Discover Thunderhead’s origin—the fragile moment before the world changes forever and the hidden forces that set the storm in motion—in this long-awaited prequel to the New York Times bestselling and Printz Honor–winning Arc of a Scythe series by Neal Shusterman.
And of course, as every school child knows, December 2042 marks the end of the Age of Mortality.
What no one has ever fully understood is how the world reached that moment.
As death begins to seem optional, humanity looks for ways to bend the rules of existence. Twi-life centers begin storing the nearly-deceased, while eco-nihilists destroy civilization’s icons and threaten to end the human race entirely. Public opinion fractures. Systems strain. The world feels…unstable.
Behind the scenes, two powerful and diametrically opposed artificial intelligences set out to optimize, stabilize, and protect—each with its own idea of what that means. But in a world already tipping toward transformation, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Meanwhile, in an obscure online chatroom, a small group of teenagers from around the globe debate both the glorious and the terrifying prospects of the future, never realizing that they stand on a very literal cutting edge—and that their conversations, their choices, their very existence matter far more than they realize.
Because when humanity stands on the brink of immortality, someone must decide what survives…and what must be cut away.
And of course, as every school child knows, December 2042 marks the end of the Age of Mortality.
What no one has ever fully understood is how the world reached that moment.
As death begins to seem optional, humanity looks for ways to bend the rules of existence. Twi-life centers begin storing the nearly-deceased, while eco-nihilists destroy civilization’s icons and threaten to end the human race entirely. Public opinion fractures. Systems strain. The world feels…unstable.
Behind the scenes, two powerful and diametrically opposed artificial intelligences set out to optimize, stabilize, and protect—each with its own idea of what that means. But in a world already tipping toward transformation, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Meanwhile, in an obscure online chatroom, a small group of teenagers from around the globe debate both the glorious and the terrifying prospects of the future, never realizing that they stand on a very literal cutting edge—and that their conversations, their choices, their very existence matter far more than they realize.
Because when humanity stands on the brink of immortality, someone must decide what survives…and what must be cut away.
528 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication December 1, 2026
About the author
Neal Shusterman
91 books31k followersAward-winning author Neal Shusterman grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where he began writing at an early age. After spending his junior and senior years of high school at the American School of Mexico City, Neal went on to UC Irvine, where he made his mark on the UCI swim team, and wrote a successful humor column. Within a year of graduating, he had his first book deal, and was hired to write a movie script.
In the years since, Neal has made his mark as a successful novelist, screenwriter, and television writer. As a full-time writer, he claims to be his own hardest task-master, always at work creating new stories to tell. His books have received many awards from organizations such as the International Reading Association, and the American Library Association, as well as garnering a myriad of state and local awards across the country. Neal's talents range from film directing (two short films he directed won him the coveted CINE Golden Eagle Awards) to writing music and stage plays – including book and lyrical contributions to “American Twistory,” which is currently playing in Boston. He has even tried his hand at creating Games, having developed three successful "How to Host a Mystery" game for teens, as well as seven "How to Host a Murder" games.
As a screen and TV writer, Neal has written for the "Goosebumps" and “Animorphs” TV series, and wrote the Disney Channel Original Movie “Pixel Perfect”. Currently Neal is adapting his novel Everlost as a feature film for Universal Studios.
Wherever Neal goes, he quickly earns a reputation as a storyteller and dynamic speaker. Much of his fiction is traceable back to stories he tells to large audiences of children and teenagers -- such as his novel The Eyes of Kid Midas. As a speaker, Neal is in constant demand at schools and conferences. Degrees in both psychology and drama give Neal a unique approach to writing. Neal's novels always deal with topics that appeal to adults as well as teens, weaving true-to-life characters into sensitive and riveting issues, and binding it all together with a unique and entertaining sense of humor.
Of Everlost, School Library Journal wrote: “Shusterman has reimagined what happens after death and questions power and the meaning of charity. While all this is going on, he has also managed to write a rip-roaring adventure…”
Of What Daddy Did, Voice of Youth Advocates wrote; "This is a compelling, spell-binding story... A stunning novel, impossible to put down once begun.
Of The Schwa Was Here, School Library Journal wrote: “Shusterman's characters–reminiscent of those crafted by E. L. Konigsburg and Jerry Spinelli–are infused with the kind of controlled, precocious improbability that magically vivifies the finest children's classics.
Of Scorpion Shards, Publisher's Weekly wrote: "Shusterman takes an outlandish comic-book concept, and, through the sheer audacity and breadth of his imagination makes it stunningly believable. A spellbinder."
And of The Eyes of Kid Midas, The Midwest Book Review wrote "This wins our vote as one of the best young-adult titles of the year" and was called "Inspired and hypnotically readable" by School Library Journal.
Neal Shusterman lives in Southern California with his children Brendan, Jarrod, Joelle, and Erin, who are a constant source of inspiration!
In the years since, Neal has made his mark as a successful novelist, screenwriter, and television writer. As a full-time writer, he claims to be his own hardest task-master, always at work creating new stories to tell. His books have received many awards from organizations such as the International Reading Association, and the American Library Association, as well as garnering a myriad of state and local awards across the country. Neal's talents range from film directing (two short films he directed won him the coveted CINE Golden Eagle Awards) to writing music and stage plays – including book and lyrical contributions to “American Twistory,” which is currently playing in Boston. He has even tried his hand at creating Games, having developed three successful "How to Host a Mystery" game for teens, as well as seven "How to Host a Murder" games.
As a screen and TV writer, Neal has written for the "Goosebumps" and “Animorphs” TV series, and wrote the Disney Channel Original Movie “Pixel Perfect”. Currently Neal is adapting his novel Everlost as a feature film for Universal Studios.
Wherever Neal goes, he quickly earns a reputation as a storyteller and dynamic speaker. Much of his fiction is traceable back to stories he tells to large audiences of children and teenagers -- such as his novel The Eyes of Kid Midas. As a speaker, Neal is in constant demand at schools and conferences. Degrees in both psychology and drama give Neal a unique approach to writing. Neal's novels always deal with topics that appeal to adults as well as teens, weaving true-to-life characters into sensitive and riveting issues, and binding it all together with a unique and entertaining sense of humor.
Of Everlost, School Library Journal wrote: “Shusterman has reimagined what happens after death and questions power and the meaning of charity. While all this is going on, he has also managed to write a rip-roaring adventure…”
Of What Daddy Did, Voice of Youth Advocates wrote; "This is a compelling, spell-binding story... A stunning novel, impossible to put down once begun.
Of The Schwa Was Here, School Library Journal wrote: “Shusterman's characters–reminiscent of those crafted by E. L. Konigsburg and Jerry Spinelli–are infused with the kind of controlled, precocious improbability that magically vivifies the finest children's classics.
Of Scorpion Shards, Publisher's Weekly wrote: "Shusterman takes an outlandish comic-book concept, and, through the sheer audacity and breadth of his imagination makes it stunningly believable. A spellbinder."
And of The Eyes of Kid Midas, The Midwest Book Review wrote "This wins our vote as one of the best young-adult titles of the year" and was called "Inspired and hypnotically readable" by School Library Journal.
Neal Shusterman lives in Southern California with his children Brendan, Jarrod, Joelle, and Erin, who are a constant source of inspiration!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Want to Read
February 21, 2026Rising Thunder is the first book in the First Blades trilogy, a prequel series to Arc of a Scythe. Yes, we’re finally going back to the beginning.
This story explores the fragile, chaotic moment before the Age of Mortality ends, when death starts to become… optional. Society is unstable, public opinion is fractured, and the world is clearly heading toward something huge.
We’ll see:
• The early days of the Thunderhead
• The formation of the Scythedom
• The very first Scythes (who were teenagers who met in an online chatroom 👀)
• The hidden forces that set the storm in motion
Shusterman has hinted that:
• The Thunderhead appears in its early “young AI” form
• There’s a new AI antagonist
• The identity of Endura’s mysterious beating heart will be revealed
• The book juggles multiple points of view
• And some characters may not survive (because of course 😭)
Needless to say, I’m excited for this one.
This story explores the fragile, chaotic moment before the Age of Mortality ends, when death starts to become… optional. Society is unstable, public opinion is fractured, and the world is clearly heading toward something huge.
We’ll see:
• The early days of the Thunderhead
• The formation of the Scythedom
• The very first Scythes (who were teenagers who met in an online chatroom 👀)
• The hidden forces that set the storm in motion
Shusterman has hinted that:
• The Thunderhead appears in its early “young AI” form
• There’s a new AI antagonist
• The identity of Endura’s mysterious beating heart will be revealed
• The book juggles multiple points of view
• And some characters may not survive (because of course 😭)
Needless to say, I’m excited for this one.
2026
August 20, 2026📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Want to Read
April 11, 2026wow, that cover. gorgeous!
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never met a Neal Shusterman book i didn't like and the Scythe series that this is a prequel to was no exception. very excited to dive into this when it comes out
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never met a Neal Shusterman book i didn't like and the Scythe series that this is a prequel to was no exception. very excited to dive into this when it comes out
August 27, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the advance copy! This is my first ARC, and what better way to cut my teeth than to return to the world of the Scythes.
4.75. In short, I loved this; This is exactly my brand of science fiction. It was intriguing and dark and philosophical and fast-paced and everything I loved about the original series and Shusterman’s work in general.
However, it is also very different from the original trilogy. Rather than focusing on a few characters, Rising Thunder follows a massive cast and switches POVs frequently. It was hard to follow these — especially at first — but the individual storylines and worldbuilding were so interesting that I didn’t mind.
In this near-future world, humanity is on the brink of developing sentient AIs. It has also created technology to keep people near death in a kind of stasis, called Twi-Life, housing them in massive medical warehouses until science advances enough to cure their ailments. It’s an eerie world, one that feels both far-fetched and all too possible. The future of humanity is at stake as two sentient AIs with different objectives go to war, using humans as their pawns and the world as their playing stage, all while medicine continues to advance and ‘natural’ death becomes all but obsolete.
The various characters and storylines come together in an ending that I found extremely satisfying yet also left me desperate for the next book. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next, but for now I am just so thrilled to be back in the world of the Scythes!
4.75. In short, I loved this; This is exactly my brand of science fiction. It was intriguing and dark and philosophical and fast-paced and everything I loved about the original series and Shusterman’s work in general.
However, it is also very different from the original trilogy. Rather than focusing on a few characters, Rising Thunder follows a massive cast and switches POVs frequently. It was hard to follow these — especially at first — but the individual storylines and worldbuilding were so interesting that I didn’t mind.
In this near-future world, humanity is on the brink of developing sentient AIs. It has also created technology to keep people near death in a kind of stasis, called Twi-Life, housing them in massive medical warehouses until science advances enough to cure their ailments. It’s an eerie world, one that feels both far-fetched and all too possible. The future of humanity is at stake as two sentient AIs with different objectives go to war, using humans as their pawns and the world as their playing stage, all while medicine continues to advance and ‘natural’ death becomes all but obsolete.
The various characters and storylines come together in an ending that I found extremely satisfying yet also left me desperate for the next book. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next, but for now I am just so thrilled to be back in the world of the Scythes!
Want to Read
August 24, 2026WHAT?!?!?!?
need-to-read
April 3, 2026Love that blue and red!
June 27, 2026
I am going back and forth between 4.25/4.5 ⭐️ on this!
I can’t wait to see where this goes from here! I am so excited!
I can’t wait to see where this goes from here! I am so excited!
July 12, 2026
Fans of Shusterman’s Arc of the Scythe trilogy and the Gleanings anthology will thrill to read even more about the history of the Scythedom and what led to the age of immortality and key players in its coming and the creation of the omniscient Thunderhead.
Set several years before December 2042 when the age of mortality ended and all-knowing AI being truly established its control over almost everything, Shusterman slowly gathers the characters who will become the first scythes and reveals through the computer simulations of the man who be Prometheus, the first supreme Blade, why death by such a system is required when death by age, illness and catastrophe is no more. And in Shusterman’s usual way, readers will be caught up in the possibility that this could be our future, too. Woven into the events of key players are veiled and straightforward references to names, places, and events well known to readers of the Arc of the Scythe trilogy that will cause fans to tingle in anticipation of watching (reading) how they all came together. Strong characterization of Ariz/Prometheus, his friend Kevin/Scythe Cleopatra, Lizzie/Scythe Elizabeth and those who will become the forger of the blades, the creator of the rings or other key players in the new age. As always, the threads will appear unconnected and in Shusterman’s style, will connect in surprising ways that absolutely make sense when they happen!
Highly recommended for libraries with readers of dystopia, Shusterman titles and/or those who enjoy novels with thought-provoking social commentary.
Note: Rising Thunder will NOT be appreciated by those who have not read the Arc of the Scythe series but Gleanings is not required pre-reading.
*Target age: 13 and up
*Profanity: Low level with most of it being the milder variety. There are a few F-bombs
*Violence: Low level at the start with more occurring as the book progressing but appropriate to the target age group and genre and none is graphically described.
*Sexual content: none
*Representation: Most in the later years of the Age of Mortality are mixed race but some specific and plot specific cultural connections would include Ariel Powers (Jewish/Indigenous), Aziz (Pakistani), Kevin (Japanese)
*LBGTQ+: Kevin could best be described as pansexual (although he does not care for that descriptor), uses he/him, and has a female persona.
Thanks for the digital arc, Simon & Schuster and Edelweiss.
Set several years before December 2042 when the age of mortality ended and all-knowing AI being truly established its control over almost everything, Shusterman slowly gathers the characters who will become the first scythes and reveals through the computer simulations of the man who be Prometheus, the first supreme Blade, why death by such a system is required when death by age, illness and catastrophe is no more. And in Shusterman’s usual way, readers will be caught up in the possibility that this could be our future, too. Woven into the events of key players are veiled and straightforward references to names, places, and events well known to readers of the Arc of the Scythe trilogy that will cause fans to tingle in anticipation of watching (reading) how they all came together. Strong characterization of Ariz/Prometheus, his friend Kevin/Scythe Cleopatra, Lizzie/Scythe Elizabeth and those who will become the forger of the blades, the creator of the rings or other key players in the new age. As always, the threads will appear unconnected and in Shusterman’s style, will connect in surprising ways that absolutely make sense when they happen!
Highly recommended for libraries with readers of dystopia, Shusterman titles and/or those who enjoy novels with thought-provoking social commentary.
Note: Rising Thunder will NOT be appreciated by those who have not read the Arc of the Scythe series but Gleanings is not required pre-reading.
*Target age: 13 and up
*Profanity: Low level with most of it being the milder variety. There are a few F-bombs
*Violence: Low level at the start with more occurring as the book progressing but appropriate to the target age group and genre and none is graphically described.
*Sexual content: none
*Representation: Most in the later years of the Age of Mortality are mixed race but some specific and plot specific cultural connections would include Ariel Powers (Jewish/Indigenous), Aziz (Pakistani), Kevin (Japanese)
*LBGTQ+: Kevin could best be described as pansexual (although he does not care for that descriptor), uses he/him, and has a female persona.
Thanks for the digital arc, Simon & Schuster and Edelweiss.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC received following the 2026 San Diego Comic Con panel "What's the Scoop with Simon & Schuster"
Simultaneously exceedingly fascinating and incredibly terrifying. I had an inkling this story would swing both ways, just based on what I know (and yes, love) of the Arc of the Scythe. But I don't think I was truly prepared for...this.
It's been a minute since I've read a Shusterman book, so I'd forgotten how much I enjoy his writing style. It's quick and evocative, sometimes brutal, often confusing, entirely entertaining. I deluded myself - on more than one occasion - into thinking I'd stop reading for the night at the next chapter. And then the next next chapter. And then the...well, you get the point. It was hard to put down.
I do appreciate a story that keeps the reader on their toes. I also really enjoy when I discover something - about the story or the characters or the flow of the arc - on my own, even if it comes several chapters in and I have to go back to confirm the discovery . If a story can set a pace and stick to it throughout 500+ pages, keeping me interested, invested and intrigued, I call it a winner.
And this definitely was a winner, in my book. I admit to feeling a tiny bit of frustration at a few points, but those frustrations didn't detract from the story. In fact, I guess I could say that it helped build the tension and suspense, helped push the plot forward, kept me curious and spiked my need to know what happened next.
After turning the last page, I must have made a face because my husband - who was sitting on the couch next to me, waiting for me to close the book for the last time - said, "Not so great, the ending?" as I was nudging the book farther and farther away from where it sat next to me on the couch. The thing is, the ending was fine. Good. Great, even. But, it wasn't what I'd call complete. Because loose ends? This had 'em. Questions? Practically popping off the pages. Missing connections? Yes, you bet.
Maybe that's okay. Maybe Mr. Shusterman wanted the reader to follow the natural arc (I did it again) of the Scythes from this book to the first in the series, to fill in the gaps with their own fictions, or to infer stories from what we were given in these pages. But I, for one, would like more. I'd like those loose ends to be tied up. I'd like the questions to be answered and the connections to be...connected. Or severed, if that's what's needed. The ending was elegant, I'll give him that. But it left me wanting to know more.
And also - the terrifying bits? I know he wrote this recently, so he's had no shortage of "the dangers of AI" and all that's wrong with the world today. But the rapidity of events - from concept to inception to proliferation - is just terrifying.
Simultaneously exceedingly fascinating and incredibly terrifying. I had an inkling this story would swing both ways, just based on what I know (and yes, love) of the Arc of the Scythe. But I don't think I was truly prepared for...this.
It's been a minute since I've read a Shusterman book, so I'd forgotten how much I enjoy his writing style. It's quick and evocative, sometimes brutal, often confusing, entirely entertaining. I deluded myself - on more than one occasion - into thinking I'd stop reading for the night at the next chapter. And then the next next chapter. And then the...well, you get the point. It was hard to put down.
I do appreciate a story that keeps the reader on their toes. I also really enjoy when I discover something - about the story or the characters or the flow of the arc - on my own, even if it comes several chapters in and I have to go back to confirm the discovery . If a story can set a pace and stick to it throughout 500+ pages, keeping me interested, invested and intrigued, I call it a winner.
And this definitely was a winner, in my book. I admit to feeling a tiny bit of frustration at a few points, but those frustrations didn't detract from the story. In fact, I guess I could say that it helped build the tension and suspense, helped push the plot forward, kept me curious and spiked my need to know what happened next.
After turning the last page, I must have made a face because my husband - who was sitting on the couch next to me, waiting for me to close the book for the last time - said, "Not so great, the ending?" as I was nudging the book farther and farther away from where it sat next to me on the couch. The thing is, the ending was fine. Good. Great, even. But, it wasn't what I'd call complete. Because loose ends? This had 'em. Questions? Practically popping off the pages. Missing connections? Yes, you bet.
Maybe that's okay. Maybe Mr. Shusterman wanted the reader to follow the natural arc (I did it again) of the Scythes from this book to the first in the series, to fill in the gaps with their own fictions, or to infer stories from what we were given in these pages. But I, for one, would like more. I'd like those loose ends to be tied up. I'd like the questions to be answered and the connections to be...connected. Or severed, if that's what's needed. The ending was elegant, I'll give him that. But it left me wanting to know more.
And also - the terrifying bits? I know he wrote this recently, so he's had no shortage of "the dangers of AI" and all that's wrong with the world today. But the rapidity of events - from concept to inception to proliferation - is just terrifying.
August 24, 2026
What a crazy ride to start one of my favorite series I can’t wait for you all to dive in!
“Rising Thunder” is a terrifying start to the age of AI when Aziz creates a system that quickly takes on a life of its own before he is fired and escorted out. With nothing left he tinkers with a new project that is just as curious and as both gain knowledge they diverge on two different paths when looking at which human is capable of change and what exactly one should do with the power to affect all of humanity.
First off this does make you shudder at some of the advances of AI in the real world especially when some of the manipulations don’t seem like something that will be considered science fiction for long. How much of society relies on technology and how something can advance or put a stop to it with little oversight or even awareness is frightening and to see these two nonentities squaring off with the only resources they have is quite frightening.
This was a slower start for me as we see a world that is just teasing the advantages of medical advancement jumping between a large cast of characters but as the story tightens near the middle and the crashes head first to the end I could not put it down! There’s so many little teasers sprinkled in that make up a large part of the Scythe framework we are familiar with and it was fun to see that start to come together. I think a large part of this series and this world boils down to the morality and ethics of immortality and we see that play out with the corruption or just cruelty of later Scythes so it’s not lost on me that a warring AI could fall into that trap and manipulate people to be it’s hand. There is a cost to all of this and whether it be one you pay with your wallet or your soil is up to each person and it’s a lot easier to corrupt than we would like to believe.
I really enjoyed this and while I think this could have stood on its own with the open ending it leaves us with I am eager to see how it all plays out leading us back to where we meet Scythe Lucifer and Anastasia.
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
“Rising Thunder” is a terrifying start to the age of AI when Aziz creates a system that quickly takes on a life of its own before he is fired and escorted out. With nothing left he tinkers with a new project that is just as curious and as both gain knowledge they diverge on two different paths when looking at which human is capable of change and what exactly one should do with the power to affect all of humanity.
First off this does make you shudder at some of the advances of AI in the real world especially when some of the manipulations don’t seem like something that will be considered science fiction for long. How much of society relies on technology and how something can advance or put a stop to it with little oversight or even awareness is frightening and to see these two nonentities squaring off with the only resources they have is quite frightening.
This was a slower start for me as we see a world that is just teasing the advantages of medical advancement jumping between a large cast of characters but as the story tightens near the middle and the crashes head first to the end I could not put it down! There’s so many little teasers sprinkled in that make up a large part of the Scythe framework we are familiar with and it was fun to see that start to come together. I think a large part of this series and this world boils down to the morality and ethics of immortality and we see that play out with the corruption or just cruelty of later Scythes so it’s not lost on me that a warring AI could fall into that trap and manipulate people to be it’s hand. There is a cost to all of this and whether it be one you pay with your wallet or your soil is up to each person and it’s a lot easier to corrupt than we would like to believe.
I really enjoyed this and while I think this could have stood on its own with the open ending it leaves us with I am eager to see how it all plays out leading us back to where we meet Scythe Lucifer and Anastasia.
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4 ⭐️ Scythe prequel!!!
Rising Thunder was one of my most anticipated reads ever- the original trilogy are some of my favorite books so I am SO excited and grateful that I got to read this early. I enjoyed this one a lot!
This book explores the origin of the Thunderhead, the first scythes, & the move towards immortality. I found chapters of this book compelling and thoughtful, and getting background of how things were set in motion were very interesting as a fan of the trilogy! However, I did expect a lot more from this book. I feel like we barely scratched the surface of the early scythedom as well as the development/advancement of the Thunderhead.
There are a LOT of characters and POVs. While all interesting, there were just too many. I felt disconnected from the characters & I wish there were more central characters. I think exploring two or even three main ones like with Citra and Rowan could have helped have a bigger impact on the story.
This book does dive into a lot of relevant messages with the rise & advancement of AI. There are definitely messages to take away from this book- especially about the harmful effects and AI as an entity.
If you have an appreciation for the series, you will enjoy this one! If you haven’t read the original series, do that FIRST! Can’t wait to hear other people’s thoughts. This one definitely sets the motion for other books in a prequel trilogy.
Thank you to SimonTeen for sending me an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rising Thunder was one of my most anticipated reads ever- the original trilogy are some of my favorite books so I am SO excited and grateful that I got to read this early. I enjoyed this one a lot!
This book explores the origin of the Thunderhead, the first scythes, & the move towards immortality. I found chapters of this book compelling and thoughtful, and getting background of how things were set in motion were very interesting as a fan of the trilogy! However, I did expect a lot more from this book. I feel like we barely scratched the surface of the early scythedom as well as the development/advancement of the Thunderhead.
There are a LOT of characters and POVs. While all interesting, there were just too many. I felt disconnected from the characters & I wish there were more central characters. I think exploring two or even three main ones like with Citra and Rowan could have helped have a bigger impact on the story.
This book does dive into a lot of relevant messages with the rise & advancement of AI. There are definitely messages to take away from this book- especially about the harmful effects and AI as an entity.
If you have an appreciation for the series, you will enjoy this one! If you haven’t read the original series, do that FIRST! Can’t wait to hear other people’s thoughts. This one definitely sets the motion for other books in a prequel trilogy.
Thank you to SimonTeen for sending me an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
August 27, 2026
4.75
First let me say I love Neal Shusterman and that the Arv of the Scythe series is one of my favorites of all times. I went into this blind. I only knew that this was a prequels to my beloved series. I didn’t know where this book was headed initially. It took me a minute to become enthralled but once I did I was in it.
This takes placed a few years prior to 2042. It’s the story of the creation of the scythes. It’s a time when they are working on technology to end death and pain and suffering. AI is also taking over everything. Aziz/prometheus has created several programs and unbeknownst to him they are still around and have taken on a life of their own. He knows that when natural death is no longer a thing that the world will end. He has run many models and no matter what happens the world ending is the only outcome. He is in a chat room with several other people who have had quite an affect on the world. These people in the chat are the ones who will become the original Scythes. The story is told thru multiple POVs including that of the AIs Aziz has created and the original scythes plus it includes some journal entries from the scythes. I love how it all comes together and how it unfolds. I wanted more and more and then of course it ended in a cliffhanger.
This wasn’t what I was expecting at all but it’s so exciting. The way he brings in current concerns and topical issues. It’s just so well done. Which isn’t surprising. I can’t wait for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
First let me say I love Neal Shusterman and that the Arv of the Scythe series is one of my favorites of all times. I went into this blind. I only knew that this was a prequels to my beloved series. I didn’t know where this book was headed initially. It took me a minute to become enthralled but once I did I was in it.
This takes placed a few years prior to 2042. It’s the story of the creation of the scythes. It’s a time when they are working on technology to end death and pain and suffering. AI is also taking over everything. Aziz/prometheus has created several programs and unbeknownst to him they are still around and have taken on a life of their own. He knows that when natural death is no longer a thing that the world will end. He has run many models and no matter what happens the world ending is the only outcome. He is in a chat room with several other people who have had quite an affect on the world. These people in the chat are the ones who will become the original Scythes. The story is told thru multiple POVs including that of the AIs Aziz has created and the original scythes plus it includes some journal entries from the scythes. I love how it all comes together and how it unfolds. I wanted more and more and then of course it ended in a cliffhanger.
This wasn’t what I was expecting at all but it’s so exciting. The way he brings in current concerns and topical issues. It’s just so well done. Which isn’t surprising. I can’t wait for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 27, 2026Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book!
I requested this book because Scythe is one of my all-time favorite series, not really due to the plotline but because of the immersive worldbuilding. You could tell in the Scythe series that a lot of thought was put into the world-building so I was very interested to see how this series expanded upon it.
One of the things that confused me is that there really didn't seem to be a central core group of characters and it also took a long time for a clear plotline to form. I found the discussion around AI to be very much relevant to modern AI usage and although it was interesting, I do think it made this book lack the somewhat timeless feel of the original series. I also did not find the internet group chats to be very interesting and I found myself skimming those parts.
I think this series would have benefitted more from having a small group of main characters like the original with maybe some occasional POVs from side characters as I am still not entirely sure who all the main characters are supposed to be. It also would have benefitted from slowly introducing the characters over time rather then dumping them all at once. It is also a bit confusing to keep track of all of the POVs too as well as who was using what names in the internet group chat. I really liked the addition of an antagonistic AI. Overall, it was still a very good addition to the Scythe universe but lacks the immersion of the original series, but I am looking forward to the next book!
I requested this book because Scythe is one of my all-time favorite series, not really due to the plotline but because of the immersive worldbuilding. You could tell in the Scythe series that a lot of thought was put into the world-building so I was very interested to see how this series expanded upon it.
One of the things that confused me is that there really didn't seem to be a central core group of characters and it also took a long time for a clear plotline to form. I found the discussion around AI to be very much relevant to modern AI usage and although it was interesting, I do think it made this book lack the somewhat timeless feel of the original series. I also did not find the internet group chats to be very interesting and I found myself skimming those parts.
I think this series would have benefitted more from having a small group of main characters like the original with maybe some occasional POVs from side characters as I am still not entirely sure who all the main characters are supposed to be. It also would have benefitted from slowly introducing the characters over time rather then dumping them all at once. It is also a bit confusing to keep track of all of the POVs too as well as who was using what names in the internet group chat. I really liked the addition of an antagonistic AI. Overall, it was still a very good addition to the Scythe universe but lacks the immersion of the original series, but I am looking forward to the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Probably about 4.25 stars. Disclaimer: I'm translating this book.
Definitely liked this book better than the original Arc of a Scythe trilogy. Those books weren't too bad, but the characters were a bit flat (especially in the first book), and some of the storylines (and the world design) were just a bit less believable to me. Perhaps it is because this prequel is set closer to our own time, or perhaps the author has just improved in the ten years since he wrote that first book in the original trilogy, or perhaps some other stars alined; but this book worked much, much better for me. The characters were actually very layered, interesting and believable, and the storylines were far less frustrating and more sensible. I actually can't wait to move on to the next book when it comes out (next year, I believe) to return to the characters and find out how things continue.
I prefer this antagonist to the one in Arc of a Scythe, as well. There are three characters that I absolutely adore, and they all featured in the third-to-last chapter, which was the high point in the book's tension—though overall I was less invested in the adventure and the action than I was in the character interactions and the world design, both of which were also better in this than in Arc of a Scythe.
Excellent job, NS. Good luck with the next one!
Definitely liked this book better than the original Arc of a Scythe trilogy. Those books weren't too bad, but the characters were a bit flat (especially in the first book), and some of the storylines (and the world design) were just a bit less believable to me. Perhaps it is because this prequel is set closer to our own time, or perhaps the author has just improved in the ten years since he wrote that first book in the original trilogy, or perhaps some other stars alined; but this book worked much, much better for me. The characters were actually very layered, interesting and believable, and the storylines were far less frustrating and more sensible. I actually can't wait to move on to the next book when it comes out (next year, I believe) to return to the characters and find out how things continue.
I prefer this antagonist to the one in Arc of a Scythe, as well. There are three characters that I absolutely adore, and they all featured in the third-to-last chapter, which was the high point in the book's tension—though overall I was less invested in the adventure and the action than I was in the character interactions and the world design, both of which were also better in this than in Arc of a Scythe.
Excellent job, NS. Good luck with the next one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Simon & Schuster, NetGalley, and Neal Shusterman for early access to this epic read!
Fans of the Scythe series will love and enjoy being taken back to when and where it all began. The stories of who the founding Scythes were and how they became friends and Scythes fascinated me. I was enthralled by the intersectionality of their lives and how things quickly spiraled through the main three (to fourth) deaths of human existence. What sacrifices would you make to be immortal? What sacrifices would you endure to make that decision for a loved one? Would you be willing to sacrifice part of your soul? Part of humanity's soul? What if it no longer became a part, but the whole of existence? The slippery slope in the name of scientific advancement to eradicate pain and death is not as selfless as we humans like to think (or pretend) it to be.
But what of Thunderhead? This novel also introduces two AIs who share a creator, but seem to be at opposing ends with their primary objectives. Is one of these Thunderhead? Will there be a battle to see whose primary objective prevails? What is certain, is that the AIs are not opposed to interfere with human existence, nor use human (and programming) faults to their advantage.
A race against time, and to the end of death, has begun. Do you really know how this story plays out? Or do you only think you do?
Fans of the Scythe series will love and enjoy being taken back to when and where it all began. The stories of who the founding Scythes were and how they became friends and Scythes fascinated me. I was enthralled by the intersectionality of their lives and how things quickly spiraled through the main three (to fourth) deaths of human existence. What sacrifices would you make to be immortal? What sacrifices would you endure to make that decision for a loved one? Would you be willing to sacrifice part of your soul? Part of humanity's soul? What if it no longer became a part, but the whole of existence? The slippery slope in the name of scientific advancement to eradicate pain and death is not as selfless as we humans like to think (or pretend) it to be.
But what of Thunderhead? This novel also introduces two AIs who share a creator, but seem to be at opposing ends with their primary objectives. Is one of these Thunderhead? Will there be a battle to see whose primary objective prevails? What is certain, is that the AIs are not opposed to interfere with human existence, nor use human (and programming) faults to their advantage.
A race against time, and to the end of death, has begun. Do you really know how this story plays out? Or do you only think you do?
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
** I received a digital review copy from the publisher, because I am a librarian and librarians are awesome **
Holy manufactured diamonds, Batman, Shusterman has done it again.
As someone who ranks Thunderhead as the top of the Arc of a Scythe trilogy, the opening volume of the First Blades trilogy is a perfect companion. The rise of Perpy and Securis, the chat-room genesis of the founding scythes, the pulse-pumping cliffhanger ending. Did I know that I wanted more after (the nicely complementary but as a whole underwhelming) Gleanings? Nope. But now I'm going to be obsessively watching for the release dates of the next two books.
As is typical with my reading habits, I didn't realize how much I had forgotten from the original trilogy until I sat down with this one, and now I'm avidly rereading the first trilogy and looking for breadcrumbs. (I experienced a similar drive to re-read after Sunrise on the Reaping last year.)
Fans of the original trilogy, put this on your must-read list immediately. It will not disappoint.
Much like the Hunger Games, this entire series deserves to be read by a wider (non-teen) audience. The world building is spectacular, the vision chilling, and the rise of the Thunderhead seems more plausible with each passing day.
ALL THE STARS, NO NOTES, FOREVER.
Holy manufactured diamonds, Batman, Shusterman has done it again.
As someone who ranks Thunderhead as the top of the Arc of a Scythe trilogy, the opening volume of the First Blades trilogy is a perfect companion. The rise of Perpy and Securis, the chat-room genesis of the founding scythes, the pulse-pumping cliffhanger ending. Did I know that I wanted more after (the nicely complementary but as a whole underwhelming) Gleanings? Nope. But now I'm going to be obsessively watching for the release dates of the next two books.
As is typical with my reading habits, I didn't realize how much I had forgotten from the original trilogy until I sat down with this one, and now I'm avidly rereading the first trilogy and looking for breadcrumbs. (I experienced a similar drive to re-read after Sunrise on the Reaping last year.)
Fans of the original trilogy, put this on your must-read list immediately. It will not disappoint.
Much like the Hunger Games, this entire series deserves to be read by a wider (non-teen) audience. The world building is spectacular, the vision chilling, and the rise of the Thunderhead seems more plausible with each passing day.
ALL THE STARS, NO NOTES, FOREVER.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rising Thunder
by Neal Shusterman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pub Date: Dec 1, 2026
First of all, thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read Rising Thunder.
As a huge fan of the Arc of a Scythe trilogy, this was one of my most anticipated reads ever. Getting the chance to return to this world and explore its origins was such an exciting experience.
One of my favorite parts of the book was learning about the beginnings of the Thunderhead, the formation of the Scythedom, and humanity's gradual transition toward immortality. Shusterman continues to ask thought-provoking questions about society, technology, and the role of AI, and those themes feel especially relevant today.
The world-building was fascinating, and I loved seeing how the foundations of the series were established. There were so many moments that made me appreciate the original trilogy even more, and longtime fans will definitely enjoy all of the connections and lore woven throughout the story.
My biggest critique is that I wanted more depth in certain areas. I expected to spend more time exploring the early Scythedom and the Thunderhead's evolution, but it often felt like we were only scratching the surface. The novel also features a large cast with many different POVs. While each perspective added something to the story, it made it harder to connect deeply with any individual character. I found myself missing the focused character-driven storytelling of Citra and Rowan from the original trilogy.
Even so, this was an engaging and compelling start to what promises to be an exciting prequel series. It expands the world in meaningful ways while introducing new mysteries that have me eager to see where the trilogy goes next.
Overall, Rising Thunder is a must-read for fans of Arc of a Scythe. I wouldn't recommend starting here if you're new to the series, but for longtime readers, it's a fascinating return to one of YA's most unique dystopian worlds.
✨ Thank you again to Simon & Schuster Canada, Simon & Schuster
by Neal Shusterman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pub Date: Dec 1, 2026
First of all, thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read Rising Thunder.
As a huge fan of the Arc of a Scythe trilogy, this was one of my most anticipated reads ever. Getting the chance to return to this world and explore its origins was such an exciting experience.
One of my favorite parts of the book was learning about the beginnings of the Thunderhead, the formation of the Scythedom, and humanity's gradual transition toward immortality. Shusterman continues to ask thought-provoking questions about society, technology, and the role of AI, and those themes feel especially relevant today.
The world-building was fascinating, and I loved seeing how the foundations of the series were established. There were so many moments that made me appreciate the original trilogy even more, and longtime fans will definitely enjoy all of the connections and lore woven throughout the story.
My biggest critique is that I wanted more depth in certain areas. I expected to spend more time exploring the early Scythedom and the Thunderhead's evolution, but it often felt like we were only scratching the surface. The novel also features a large cast with many different POVs. While each perspective added something to the story, it made it harder to connect deeply with any individual character. I found myself missing the focused character-driven storytelling of Citra and Rowan from the original trilogy.
Even so, this was an engaging and compelling start to what promises to be an exciting prequel series. It expands the world in meaningful ways while introducing new mysteries that have me eager to see where the trilogy goes next.
Overall, Rising Thunder is a must-read for fans of Arc of a Scythe. I wouldn't recommend starting here if you're new to the series, but for longtime readers, it's a fascinating return to one of YA's most unique dystopian worlds.
✨ Thank you again to Simon & Schuster Canada, Simon & Schuster
August 6, 2026
Wow
Primero, esta copia avanzada me cayó del cielo (gracias booth de Simon & Schuster), no esperaba recibirla y cuando la tuve en mis manos temblé como chihuahua.
Ahora sí lo que pienso (porque me dejó muy impactada):
No sé por qué pero creo que se me hizo más interesante que la trilogía original.
Para ser juvenil no tiene miedo de ser complejo al discutir conflictos morales. No solo es el tema de la vida y la muerte, sino que siembra temas políticos y religiosos que me dejaron pensando mucho. Me pareció que todas las situaciones que plantea se sienten muy reales, sí creo que la sociedad reaccionaría y se dividiría de esa manera si llegáramos a alcanzar una tecnología que marcara el fin de la mortalidad del ser humano.
Me gustó la forma en la que se mete la IA en la historia, no lo sentí sacado de la manga ni nada por el estilo.
Estoy muy entusiasmada en leer la segunda parte, cómo se van a desarrollar e interconectar los personajes que apenas llegamos a conocer.
Especialmente, me interesa mucho saber cómo se va a llegar al futuro en el que se desarrolla la trilogía original, porque damn todavía queda un buen e intenso camino por recorrer.
Primero, esta copia avanzada me cayó del cielo (gracias booth de Simon & Schuster), no esperaba recibirla y cuando la tuve en mis manos temblé como chihuahua.
Ahora sí lo que pienso (porque me dejó muy impactada):
No sé por qué pero creo que se me hizo más interesante que la trilogía original.
Para ser juvenil no tiene miedo de ser complejo al discutir conflictos morales. No solo es el tema de la vida y la muerte, sino que siembra temas políticos y religiosos que me dejaron pensando mucho. Me pareció que todas las situaciones que plantea se sienten muy reales, sí creo que la sociedad reaccionaría y se dividiría de esa manera si llegáramos a alcanzar una tecnología que marcara el fin de la mortalidad del ser humano.
Me gustó la forma en la que se mete la IA en la historia, no lo sentí sacado de la manga ni nada por el estilo.
Estoy muy entusiasmada en leer la segunda parte, cómo se van a desarrollar e interconectar los personajes que apenas llegamos a conocer.
Especialmente, me interesa mucho saber cómo se va a llegar al futuro en el que se desarrolla la trilogía original, porque damn todavía queda un buen e intenso camino por recorrer.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was so good to return to the world of Arc of a Scythe!
Rising Thunder is the first book in Neal Shusterman’s new First Blades trilogy, which is a prequel to the Arc of a Scythe (highly recommend reading that series first, before this book) and it does not disappoint.
This book explores the ending of mortality, the beginning of sentient AI, and it also follows a group of teens from a chat room and what is happening in their lives. There are lots of characters to keep track of in this book, both human and AI, but I didn’t feel overwhelmed by that.
I read this 560 page book over the span of two days. Every time I set it down, I found myself wanting to go right back to it.
Five words that describe this book: propulsive, smart, thrilling, thought-provoking, and fun.
Rising Thunder will be released on December 1, 2026. I’d like to thank NetGalley, Neal Shusterman, and Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for providing me with this advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Rising Thunder is the first book in Neal Shusterman’s new First Blades trilogy, which is a prequel to the Arc of a Scythe (highly recommend reading that series first, before this book) and it does not disappoint.
This book explores the ending of mortality, the beginning of sentient AI, and it also follows a group of teens from a chat room and what is happening in their lives. There are lots of characters to keep track of in this book, both human and AI, but I didn’t feel overwhelmed by that.
I read this 560 page book over the span of two days. Every time I set it down, I found myself wanting to go right back to it.
Five words that describe this book: propulsive, smart, thrilling, thought-provoking, and fun.
Rising Thunder will be released on December 1, 2026. I’d like to thank NetGalley, Neal Shusterman, and Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for providing me with this advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for this ARC!
I was really excited to revisit the Scythe world, to go back to the Age of Mortality, and it makes you realise just what it must've been like to be there during such a remarkable change in history.
That includes how it affects our main characters. It was incredibly captivating to see the stories of The Founding Scythes and how they all interlinked.
Admittedly though, all the different point of views got a bit convoluted and confusing at times hard to keep up with, but still hooking.
The battle between the two AIs, from the same creator, but with entirely different ideas of what should happen to Humanity. Race against time. It's very tense and keeps you on the edge of your seat and ultimately a gripping book.
Overall, Rising Thunder is a really promising prequel. It doesn't feel like a fan service but it adds so much to the world, and for that I really enjoyed it!
Admittedly though, it didn't have the same charm and magic as the original Arc of a Scythe for me
I was really excited to revisit the Scythe world, to go back to the Age of Mortality, and it makes you realise just what it must've been like to be there during such a remarkable change in history.
That includes how it affects our main characters. It was incredibly captivating to see the stories of The Founding Scythes and how they all interlinked.
Admittedly though, all the different point of views got a bit convoluted and confusing at times hard to keep up with, but still hooking.
The battle between the two AIs, from the same creator, but with entirely different ideas of what should happen to Humanity. Race against time. It's very tense and keeps you on the edge of your seat and ultimately a gripping book.
Overall, Rising Thunder is a really promising prequel. It doesn't feel like a fan service but it adds so much to the world, and for that I really enjoyed it!
Admittedly though, it didn't have the same charm and magic as the original Arc of a Scythe for me
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rising Thunder (Scythe prequel, First Blades #1) by Neal Shusterman, 560 pages. Simon and Schuster, DECEMBER 2026. $25
Language: PG-13 (55 swears, 0 ‘f’); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG-13 (deaths mentioned, some bloody)
BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS _ ESSENTIAL
APPEALS TO: MANY
Who created Thunderhead? Who were the first Scythes and why did they start their gruesome business? How did humankind create immortality? Welcome back to the beginnings of the world of Scythes where you will find as many questions as you do answers and love every minute of it.
Shusterman crafts interesting, complicated, and thoughtful narratives and he does not disappoint as he unveils the first 13 scythes and how they “got the job”. I can’t wait for others to read this so that I have people to talk to about it!
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
Update: I read it twice ina row because I had to enjoy it again. I will probably read it a third time soon.
Language: PG-13 (55 swears, 0 ‘f’); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG-13 (deaths mentioned, some bloody)
BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS _ ESSENTIAL
APPEALS TO: MANY
Who created Thunderhead? Who were the first Scythes and why did they start their gruesome business? How did humankind create immortality? Welcome back to the beginnings of the world of Scythes where you will find as many questions as you do answers and love every minute of it.
Shusterman crafts interesting, complicated, and thoughtful narratives and he does not disappoint as he unveils the first 13 scythes and how they “got the job”. I can’t wait for others to read this so that I have people to talk to about it!
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
Update: I read it twice ina row because I had to enjoy it again. I will probably read it a third time soon.
August 26, 2026
For fans of Arc of a Scythe, this first entry of the prequel series brings back what we found interesting in that dystopian world by giving us the breadcrumbs of how we got there. The story centers on a number of characters and thus several POV are presented (switching by chapter). There isn't exactly a need to have read the Scythe series first but I think that it would make some details clearer. Though there are clearly some dark themes presented, the book is told on a YA level (but adults like me will still enjoy it). The different characters introduced in this book are interesting as is the technology that evolves in this time of the world. I am curious to see where they go next and how they get to Scythe so I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel.
I received access to this eARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I received access to this eARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. “Arc of the Scythe” series is one of my favorites; so was ecstatic when Neil Shusterman came out with the prequel. I’d say read the “Arc of the Scythe” series first to get a better understanding before reading this book. I devoured this book in a few days; that’s how good it was! I like how we get to see how the characters develop and become the Founding Scythes. The story brings to light The Age of Mortality and what people will do to achieve being able to live forever. What people will do as new tech and the idea that immortality is close at hand. It’s interesting to see how possibly The Thunderhead develops along with another AI that are both learning as they go. It’ll be interesting to see how it plays out. The pieces started to fall into place the further along as I read.
August 28, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this novel!
There are these times when you are on vacation and you’re having fun but all you want to do is go home and be in your bed. A place of familiarity and comfort. That’s what it feels like to return to the world of Scythe. The irony is not lost on me that finding comfort in this story is like lying on a bed of nails but it feels like home. Scythe is a series that you will have to pry out of my cold dead-ish hands before I stop recommending it. There is only one thing more that I love as much as returning to a favorite world and that is returning to it in the way of a prequel. I love diving into an origin story and learning how my favorite story becomes what it is. What events led up to where the original adventure begins. I want to wrap into a cocoon and stay there absorb everything!
There are these times when you are on vacation and you’re having fun but all you want to do is go home and be in your bed. A place of familiarity and comfort. That’s what it feels like to return to the world of Scythe. The irony is not lost on me that finding comfort in this story is like lying on a bed of nails but it feels like home. Scythe is a series that you will have to pry out of my cold dead-ish hands before I stop recommending it. There is only one thing more that I love as much as returning to a favorite world and that is returning to it in the way of a prequel. I love diving into an origin story and learning how my favorite story becomes what it is. What events led up to where the original adventure begins. I want to wrap into a cocoon and stay there absorb everything!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read Rising Thunder. All thoughts are my own.
I was really excited to read this one, and it didn't disappoint. It was so fascinating to get deeper into the world we learned about in Scythe and see the beginnings. To get to see how it all began, and what the world was like before.
I really enjoyed the characters and how things are not black and white. We see morally grey characters, and I really enjoyed their POVs.
A really, really fun read. And I'm mostly just sad that I have to wait to read the next one.
I was really excited to read this one, and it didn't disappoint. It was so fascinating to get deeper into the world we learned about in Scythe and see the beginnings. To get to see how it all began, and what the world was like before.
I really enjoyed the characters and how things are not black and white. We see morally grey characters, and I really enjoyed their POVs.
A really, really fun read. And I'm mostly just sad that I have to wait to read the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book is another fascinating imagination of the role technology can and should (or shouldn't) play in our lives as we delve further into this new age of AI. Shusterman returns to the scythdom with this prequel, proving that he is far from done making us think about the limits of humankind. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. This is a YA series, but I know a lot of adults who would benefit from reading this wholly unique series in which humanity has conquered death. This series is utterly cool and poignant, and Shusterman's writing is top-notch.
August 22, 2026
I received a copy of this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book I struggled with a bit. While I enjoyed pieces of it, and the writing was well done, I felt like the pacing moved at the speed of molasses. Also, I had a big issue with the different POVs. There are SO MANY POVs and nothing to signify the change other than reading until eventually a name or context clues tells you who you’re reading as.
Overall, I can see the benefit this prequel adds to the original trilogy but to me this was just not very captivating.
This book I struggled with a bit. While I enjoyed pieces of it, and the writing was well done, I felt like the pacing moved at the speed of molasses. Also, I had a big issue with the different POVs. There are SO MANY POVs and nothing to signify the change other than reading until eventually a name or context clues tells you who you’re reading as.
Overall, I can see the benefit this prequel adds to the original trilogy but to me this was just not very captivating.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved the Scythe series and to have a prequel is always awesome. This did not disappoint. This was so cool to have the backstory of the first Scythes. This doesn’t need to be read first and I think I appreciated it more because I knew where it was headed beforehand having read the other books. A great read!
This review was my own opinions without compensation. I received this book on Netgalley
This review was my own opinions without compensation. I received this book on Netgalley
August 26, 2026
I recently finished the Scythe series and loved it. I didn't even know a prequel was in the works, but what a great addition to the storyline! I was hooked to this first installment and thought it worked extremely well. Being able to add depth to the AI was fascinating and learning more about the origin was exciting. I can't wait to see what comes next!
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Want to Read
June 11, 2026I actually can't wait for this. That cover is dope.
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