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Viral Airwaves #1
Viral Airwaves
Henry Schmitt wants nothing more than a quiet life and a daily ration of instant noodles. At least until he learns the terrible secret that drove his father away—the Plague that killed his mother and ravaged his country was created by those now in power. His only chance to expose the truth is through a ragtag band of outlaws who knew his father and an airborne radio broadcast, but he’d have to dig into his family’s past and risk the wrath of a corrupt government. Viral Airwaves is a standalone novel sitting firmly between dystopia and solarpunk and centering LGBTQIAP+ characters. If you love hopeful stories about overcoming desperate odds, nemesis working together, and larger-than-life characters, don’t miss out!
461 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2015
8 people are currently reading
831 people want to read
About the author
Claudie Arseneault
26 books461 followersClaudie Arseneault is an asexual and aromantic-spectrum writer hailing from the very-French Québec City. Her long studies in biochemistry and immunology often sneak back into her science-fiction, and her love for sprawling casts invariably turns her novels into multi-storylined wonders. The most recent, City of Strife, came out on February 22, 2017! Claudie is a founding member of The Kraken Collective and is well-known for her involvement in solarpunk, her database of aro and ace characters in speculative fiction, and her unending love of squids. Find out more on her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 14, 2017
He was not a hero. He had told Joshua that, once, and hadn’t understood what his friend had meant, saying it didn’t matter and that none of them were heroes. But he understood now. They hadn’t needed heroes. They had needed regular folks flooding the streets of Reverence instead of staying in the fields. They needed people to act, to try what little they could. That’s what he was doing. He was trying. If he could succeed, too, that would be fantastic.
* * *
...At this point I'm going to stop even pretending I can keep it to one-sentence headers. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S BOOKS I LOVE THIS MUCH. I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO START, I'M JUST LIKE.... AGH (this is a good sign really)
Uh I'm honestly just kind of. Staring into - I HAVE BEEN SITTING HERE FOR LIKE 7 MINUTES trying to figure out what to say and how to Word about how great Viral Airwaves is and not just have it be incoherent yelling (my notes/highlights are full of that enough). Like the rest of my reviews today have been all pretty with actual complete sentences and structure, and this is just going to be me screaming/probably swearing bc THIS IS HOW I GET WHEN I REALLY LOVE A BOOK, i can't even think like
Uh ok let's try a list. Good things it has:
* Revolution against a horrifically corrupt and brutal government (including a truly intense/terrifying/realistic protest toward the end, with the kind of retaliation you'd expect here. and in reality)
* Gorgeous scenery descriptions (this is Solarpunk, our revolution will be green, inclusive and optimistic even if it's a freaking bloody struggle getting there)
* Freaking hot air balloons and secret radio channels and deadly plagues like seriously this is an original-ass premise, are you tired of your standard Revolt Against The Bad Government stuff with the grimdark and the depressing trope-rehash, then yes, pls pick this up
* I mean the fact that it's solarpunk and ultimately optimistic doesn't mean it's not BRUTALLY EFFECTIVE and sometimes DEVASTATING, and also terrifying (the plague, and holy shit *everything* about Andeal and the labs, please hug Andeal while we're at this), like this is not a sugarcoated thing, it's borderline-dystopia, HOWEVER, even as it shows the real horrors of life under an oppressive dreadful government and the fight for survival/freedom, it's different/better than like 90% of media because MARGINALIZED PEOPLE AREN'T TORTURED/MURDERED FOR BEING THEMSELVES, TO BE TRAGIC OR 'INSPIRING.' (there is some torture/murder bc they are up against actual human monsters, but THERE IS A DIFFERENCE and that's IMPORTANT.)
* Like, Viral Airwaves is about regular people being extraordinary because they have to, like the starter quote says, and it has a wonderful array of LGBTQIA and just, people you don't get to see in mainstream fiction, being amazing - such as cute ace noodle-nerds and badass ladies, one of whom really likes to make things explode, and an all-guy love triangle with the BEST-DONE ENEMIES-TO-LOVERS I'VE EVER SEEN, like it's not even fair man, and one of em's bi and an actually realistic albinism portrayal and holycrap im still not over them having to go to a freaking pharmacy and replace his busted glasses, like yes LMAO this is my Aesthetic, like that one "who's gonna handle the braces if all the dentists are dead in the apocalypse" post, I find this both hilarious (possibly irrationally so) but just so great bc it's REALISTIC AND YES THIS WOULD HAPPEN -
Yeah see, I dissolved into barely-coherent screaming, but it's really hard not to, because I JUST LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH. I LOVE SERAPHIN ESPECIALLY BUT I LOVE THE WHOLE THING, just, Viral Airwaves is so good, and I feel personally attacked, and that's a Good Thing, because he and this entire thing was like, tailored/specifically-crafted to make me INVESTED AND CARE REALLY HARD before the author even knew me, and now I will smile every time i make top ramen. got dang. GOT DANG.
The end, go read this book and scream about it with me.
(...nvm, actually, where THE HELL are my notes/highlights? I had around 130 THINGS. WHAT EVEN.)
* * *
...At this point I'm going to stop even pretending I can keep it to one-sentence headers. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S BOOKS I LOVE THIS MUCH. I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO START, I'M JUST LIKE.... AGH (this is a good sign really)
Uh I'm honestly just kind of. Staring into - I HAVE BEEN SITTING HERE FOR LIKE 7 MINUTES trying to figure out what to say and how to Word about how great Viral Airwaves is and not just have it be incoherent yelling (my notes/highlights are full of that enough). Like the rest of my reviews today have been all pretty with actual complete sentences and structure, and this is just going to be me screaming/probably swearing bc THIS IS HOW I GET WHEN I REALLY LOVE A BOOK, i can't even think like
Uh ok let's try a list. Good things it has:
* Revolution against a horrifically corrupt and brutal government (including a truly intense/terrifying/realistic protest toward the end, with the kind of retaliation you'd expect here. and in reality)
* Gorgeous scenery descriptions (this is Solarpunk, our revolution will be green, inclusive and optimistic even if it's a freaking bloody struggle getting there)
* Freaking hot air balloons and secret radio channels and deadly plagues like seriously this is an original-ass premise, are you tired of your standard Revolt Against The Bad Government stuff with the grimdark and the depressing trope-rehash, then yes, pls pick this up
* I mean the fact that it's solarpunk and ultimately optimistic doesn't mean it's not BRUTALLY EFFECTIVE and sometimes DEVASTATING, and also terrifying (the plague, and holy shit *everything* about Andeal and the labs, please hug Andeal while we're at this), like this is not a sugarcoated thing, it's borderline-dystopia, HOWEVER, even as it shows the real horrors of life under an oppressive dreadful government and the fight for survival/freedom, it's different/better than like 90% of media because MARGINALIZED PEOPLE AREN'T TORTURED/MURDERED FOR BEING THEMSELVES, TO BE TRAGIC OR 'INSPIRING.' (there is some torture/murder bc they are up against actual human monsters, but THERE IS A DIFFERENCE and that's IMPORTANT.)
* Like, Viral Airwaves is about regular people being extraordinary because they have to, like the starter quote says, and it has a wonderful array of LGBTQIA and just, people you don't get to see in mainstream fiction, being amazing - such as cute ace noodle-nerds and badass ladies, one of whom really likes to make things explode, and an all-guy love triangle with the BEST-DONE ENEMIES-TO-LOVERS I'VE EVER SEEN, like it's not even fair man, and one of em's bi and an actually realistic albinism portrayal and holycrap im still not over them having to go to a freaking pharmacy and replace his busted glasses, like yes LMAO this is my Aesthetic, like that one "who's gonna handle the braces if all the dentists are dead in the apocalypse" post, I find this both hilarious (possibly irrationally so) but just so great bc it's REALISTIC AND YES THIS WOULD HAPPEN -
Yeah see, I dissolved into barely-coherent screaming, but it's really hard not to, because I JUST LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH. I LOVE SERAPHIN ESPECIALLY BUT I LOVE THE WHOLE THING, just, Viral Airwaves is so good, and I feel personally attacked, and that's a Good Thing, because he and this entire thing was like, tailored/specifically-crafted to make me INVESTED AND CARE REALLY HARD before the author even knew me, and now I will smile every time i make top ramen. got dang. GOT DANG.
The end, go read this book and scream about it with me.
(...nvm, actually, where THE HELL are my notes/highlights? I had around 130 THINGS. WHAT EVEN.)
February 17, 2018
Check out my book blog for more book reviews and other bookish posts!
Viral Airwaves is #ownvoices for asexual and aromantic representation.
Claudie Arseneault is one of my all-time favourite authors. She writes amazing stories, that focus on friendship and community. This is a solarpunk novel.
__
I always love how detailed the worldbuilding is in Claudie Arseneault’s books and Viral Airwaves did not disappoint. It’s a dystopian world that is not that far into the future, that it is totally different from the world we live in now. One of the characters has studied electrical engineering for example.
There’s an enemies-to-lovers plot line. I loved how the relationship built up very slowly, and how each person had time to come to terms with what they knew about the other, and to find out who the other person actually was deep down.
There’s a huge focus on friendship and found family which I always find very beautiful and heart-touching.
I’m always a fan of characters that wear glasses. Especially in dystopian fiction! Like what happens when you lose them, or break them. How do you look after them in a dystopian world, where you might not be able to get a new pair that easily. Arseneault weaves this topic in the rest of the narrative, and I was so happy!
One question that I still have though is what were The Races?
Ableist language is used in the text.
__
Viral Airwaves was a wonderful read. I loved how it combined solarpunk themes with the dystopian themes.
Viral Airwaves is #ownvoices for asexual and aromantic representation.
Claudie Arseneault is one of my all-time favourite authors. She writes amazing stories, that focus on friendship and community. This is a solarpunk novel.
__
I always love how detailed the worldbuilding is in Claudie Arseneault’s books and Viral Airwaves did not disappoint. It’s a dystopian world that is not that far into the future, that it is totally different from the world we live in now. One of the characters has studied electrical engineering for example.
There’s an enemies-to-lovers plot line. I loved how the relationship built up very slowly, and how each person had time to come to terms with what they knew about the other, and to find out who the other person actually was deep down.
There’s a huge focus on friendship and found family which I always find very beautiful and heart-touching.
I’m always a fan of characters that wear glasses. Especially in dystopian fiction! Like what happens when you lose them, or break them. How do you look after them in a dystopian world, where you might not be able to get a new pair that easily. Arseneault weaves this topic in the rest of the narrative, and I was so happy!
One question that I still have though is what were The Races?
Ableist language is used in the text.
__
Viral Airwaves was a wonderful read. I loved how it combined solarpunk themes with the dystopian themes.
March 14, 2016
A good read; Arsenault took the typical "the government is lying to everyone after the apocalypse--we should band together and overthrow them!" plot and made it super diverse: 1. ethnically, which is only natural if you have three different countries that have become politically unified, and 2. sexually/romantically, which is awesome because to have love between two men, an unfaily bisexual character, and the mention of non-binary genders pop up like this in a non-romance book was neat.
In other words, the same way ordinary sci-fi adventure stories sometimes have hetero romance subplots, this one had both hetero and m/m romance subplots, plus significant characters from at least three different ethnic groups, and that's a relief because so many stories like this seem to exist in a whitewashed and straightwashed version of reality. (And before someone pops up to say "but diversity points!" no, everything was well-written and natural, not drawing attention to itself.)
I don't usually like to read postapocalpytic fiction, but it helped that this one took place in a sunny, green setting (because society had been wrecked by disease, not war or environmental destruction.) It was also an exciting story and while plenty of upsetting things happened, it was an overall hopeful book.
It's sad that my bar is so low but at this point in history I feel like it still needs pointing out and commending when a SFF book manages to have more than one strong female character on the good-guy's side at the same time. This one gives us both the strong leader personality of Maniel and the wacky green-haired chemist lady who blows things up and whose name has escaped me. Whoops.
What makes me sad is that books like this, which would make amazing movies, will probably not become movies. I would have loved to watch the depth of the established hetero 'ship's romance, or the tension of the all-male political love triangle (when was the last time you saw that in a book!?) with my actual eyes and the glories of CGI instead of just having to imagine it. I want to tear up when I see the balloon fly; I want to hear a soundtrack expertly crafted to make sure I do.
Anyway: you might cry. But there's A happy ending for some of the queer people, even if not everyone makes it out of the story unscathed. (This is a violent rebellion, after all. But nobody's killed for being queer, which is an important distinction.)
Side note that I'm not too comfortable with the usage of "the albino" as a noun to constantly refer to the bi rebel leader, who is the albino character, but 1. I'm not albino, and 2. the author is not a native English speaker, so I'm just making a note, not finger-wagging.
In other words, the same way ordinary sci-fi adventure stories sometimes have hetero romance subplots, this one had both hetero and m/m romance subplots, plus significant characters from at least three different ethnic groups, and that's a relief because so many stories like this seem to exist in a whitewashed and straightwashed version of reality. (And before someone pops up to say "but diversity points!" no, everything was well-written and natural, not drawing attention to itself.)
I don't usually like to read postapocalpytic fiction, but it helped that this one took place in a sunny, green setting (because society had been wrecked by disease, not war or environmental destruction.) It was also an exciting story and while plenty of upsetting things happened, it was an overall hopeful book.
It's sad that my bar is so low but at this point in history I feel like it still needs pointing out and commending when a SFF book manages to have more than one strong female character on the good-guy's side at the same time. This one gives us both the strong leader personality of Maniel and the wacky green-haired chemist lady who blows things up and whose name has escaped me. Whoops.
What makes me sad is that books like this, which would make amazing movies, will probably not become movies. I would have loved to watch the depth of the established hetero 'ship's romance, or the tension of the all-male political love triangle (when was the last time you saw that in a book!?) with my actual eyes and the glories of CGI instead of just having to imagine it. I want to tear up when I see the balloon fly; I want to hear a soundtrack expertly crafted to make sure I do.
Anyway: you might cry. But there's A happy ending for some of the queer people, even if not everyone makes it out of the story unscathed. (This is a violent rebellion, after all. But nobody's killed for being queer, which is an important distinction.)
Side note that I'm not too comfortable with the usage of "the albino" as a noun to constantly refer to the bi rebel leader, who is the albino character, but 1. I'm not albino, and 2. the author is not a native English speaker, so I'm just making a note, not finger-wagging.
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November 18, 2016Happy to announce Viral Airwaves' second edition comes out this November 22! I totally picked the 22nd because of how important it is in the second half of the novel (and I'd picked that day in the novel because our student strike's huge protests were always on the 22nd SO. SIGNIFICANCE).
Learn more on my website at: http://claudiearseneault.com/?p=1273
Learn more on my website at: http://claudiearseneault.com/?p=1273
September 29, 2017
I liked reading this novel. Not a new favourite but not a disappointment either.
It was a bit confusing at first to understand the setting but the description talking about a dystopian solarpunk novel actually fits well.
Not a fan of the ennemy-to-lover trope but it was still engaging and I ended up rooting for them. The three main characters were nice to follow, but I would have liked for one of them to be a woman maybe: Treysh and Maniel are my favourites so I'm a bit sad they weren't on the spotlight more.
A very sad story on occasions, but still an hopeful one, with a great cast of LGBTA+ characters.
tw: murder, abuse, firearms, suicide, illness, casual homophobia, police brutality, riots, torture. (list taken from author's website)
It was a bit confusing at first to understand the setting but the description talking about a dystopian solarpunk novel actually fits well.
Not a fan of the ennemy-to-lover trope but it was still engaging and I ended up rooting for them. The three main characters were nice to follow, but I would have liked for one of them to be a woman maybe: Treysh and Maniel are my favourites so I'm a bit sad they weren't on the spotlight more.
A very sad story on occasions, but still an hopeful one, with a great cast of LGBTA+ characters.
tw: murder, abuse, firearms, suicide, illness, casual homophobia, police brutality, riots, torture. (list taken from author's website)
January 21, 2019
3.5 stars
Claudie Arseneault has quickly become one of my favorite writers. This is her debut novel, and it isn't as seamless as Baker Thief and her City of Spires books, but it's a delightful read. When the world feels too full of jagged edges, these are the books I want to land in. They are such rich fantasy worlds, full of queers and first-rate banter.
Claudie Arseneault has quickly become one of my favorite writers. This is her debut novel, and it isn't as seamless as Baker Thief and her City of Spires books, but it's a delightful read. When the world feels too full of jagged edges, these are the books I want to land in. They are such rich fantasy worlds, full of queers and first-rate banter.
November 29, 2018
Trigger warnings: violence, death, explosions, war, torture.
This was...a slightly peculiar book. I bought it literally years ago when I read that it featured asexual representation and it was Own Voices, and then I promptly forgot all about it. Until now.
I really loved the idea of this - it's described as solarpunk - but ultimately this was just LONG. There were a lot of narrators, and their voices felt a little too similar at times. I also felt like there wasn't quiiiiite enough worldbuilding in favour of action at the beginning of the story and then I spent the rest of this nearly 500 page book wondering why the hell the world was the way it was.
So...I liked it. I liked the representation. But it was at least a hundred (and fifty) pages too long, and there was way more in here about noodles than I anticipated. Like, WAY more.
This was...a slightly peculiar book. I bought it literally years ago when I read that it featured asexual representation and it was Own Voices, and then I promptly forgot all about it. Until now.
I really loved the idea of this - it's described as solarpunk - but ultimately this was just LONG. There were a lot of narrators, and their voices felt a little too similar at times. I also felt like there wasn't quiiiiite enough worldbuilding in favour of action at the beginning of the story and then I spent the rest of this nearly 500 page book wondering why the hell the world was the way it was.
So...I liked it. I liked the representation. But it was at least a hundred (and fifty) pages too long, and there was way more in here about noodles than I anticipated. Like, WAY more.
July 21, 2015
I must say that I'm happy that I got to read this beautiful book with beautiful characters that I'm sure you will fall in love with. Claudie Arseneault has done an amazing job weaving such a lovely story. Yes the book is strange and odd but strange and odd in a good way that I could not put it down. Henry is a character that is sure to become one of your favorites. With fantastic world building and a unique story that is like no other, Viral Airwaves is a must read for all the book lovers out there. Add this book to your list people. Must read.
Will be giving away a signed copy of this book shortly.
Will be giving away a signed copy of this book shortly.
February 20, 2015
This is an odd little book, and I say that with love and complete sincerity. I've not really read anything like it. There's a great mixture of humor, tension, and honest human emotions that makes Viral Airwaves an excellent read. The characters are so alive and full of depth I came to love every single one of them--even the ones I hated at the beginning. All that in a setting with manufactured plagues and hot air balloons and clandestine radio shows and I was absolutely hooked. Viral Airwaves is a winner!
July 4, 2015
I usually don't read sci-fi because, you know, science (not my kind of stuff), but I really enjoyed Viral Airwaves. The writing is great and so is worldbuilding, but what made me love it were the characters. Seraphin is by far my favorite (already liked him from The White Renegade), but all of them are well developed and interesting. It's a pity it doesn't have a sequel; I would love to read more about Henry, Vermen and everyone else.
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February 23, 2020
March 27, 2021
[ Overall Thoughts ]
Henry Schmitt is content enough with a simple life in his tiny, nearly-empty village, until an outlaw pays a ridiculous sum for the use of his bed for the night and ends up bringing all kinds of trouble to his door. As Henry learns more about his father who abandoned him after his mother’s death, their government, and the group of rebels who’ve swept him up in their trouble, he has to decide when and how an ordinary person like him can take a stand.
Viral Airwaves is the author's debut standalone novel. It is unique and enjoyable, and while it didn't feel particularly fast-paced to me, I also had no trouble finding the drive to pick it up and read more. The writing does occasionally feel a bit repetitive, but I didn't find that impeded my enjoyment much. The worldbuilding was mostly conveyed through characters' experiences or dialogue, and I found it came across naturally. I found the story very engaging, and unfortunately relevant as it involves a pandemic, protests, and police brutality.
[ The World ]
Homes, infrastructure, and technology are solar-powered, and National radio and newspapers are the only sources of information. A deadly pandemic caused many setbacks, as well as an oil-destroying engineered microbe that spelled the end of personal transportation and other reliance on oil. I'll be honest: I don't know how feasible the sciencey stuff here is. It occasionally felt a bit far-fetched, but I'm not one to question fantasy science generally, so this setup may work less well for a more scientifically-inclined audience. For me, it worked to set up a story that I found unique and engaging with an interestingly-built world.
[ The Characters ]
The book is split between several POVs and I found each to be an interesting perspective. Though we get lots of pages from other perspectives, I'd argue that Henry Schmitt is the main character. He is an average fellow who just wants to live a quiet life with his supply of instant noodles. As he learns more about the rebellion, he becomes determined to take part somehow. He was a fun character to follow, being timid and uncertain he was a bit different than your typical fantasy hero.
Andeal, Maniel, and Seraphin are the founders of the rebellion and play significant roles as well. Andeal is a staunch pacifist and believer in humane treatment as well as being a skilled engineer. Maniel is badass, a capable leader, and is a fierce protector of those she cares for. Seraphin is the "face" of the rebellion known as the White Renegade, and has a reputation far worse than his reality.
We also get a significant number of chapters from Captain Hans Vermen, a soldier who abandoned his command in order to chase after Seraphin to exact revenge on him for his brother's death.
[ Suggested Audience ]
Readers interested in a solarpunk setting, and fighting against corrupt governments with hot air balloons and radio broadcasts.
Readers who enjoy multi-POV stories, with characters coming together for a common goal.
Readers who like nonviolent, ordinary folk MCs, but also leaders of rebellions and pacifist engineers.
[ TL;DR ]
Viral Airwaves was unlike any other book I've come across, with its solarpunk setting, its ordinary MC, and its unique approach to a rebellion. I really enjoyed it.
Content Warning for pandemic, viruses, protests and police brutality.
Henry Schmitt is content enough with a simple life in his tiny, nearly-empty village, until an outlaw pays a ridiculous sum for the use of his bed for the night and ends up bringing all kinds of trouble to his door. As Henry learns more about his father who abandoned him after his mother’s death, their government, and the group of rebels who’ve swept him up in their trouble, he has to decide when and how an ordinary person like him can take a stand.
Viral Airwaves is the author's debut standalone novel. It is unique and enjoyable, and while it didn't feel particularly fast-paced to me, I also had no trouble finding the drive to pick it up and read more. The writing does occasionally feel a bit repetitive, but I didn't find that impeded my enjoyment much. The worldbuilding was mostly conveyed through characters' experiences or dialogue, and I found it came across naturally. I found the story very engaging, and unfortunately relevant as it involves a pandemic, protests, and police brutality.
[ The World ]
Homes, infrastructure, and technology are solar-powered, and National radio and newspapers are the only sources of information. A deadly pandemic caused many setbacks, as well as an oil-destroying engineered microbe that spelled the end of personal transportation and other reliance on oil. I'll be honest: I don't know how feasible the sciencey stuff here is. It occasionally felt a bit far-fetched, but I'm not one to question fantasy science generally, so this setup may work less well for a more scientifically-inclined audience. For me, it worked to set up a story that I found unique and engaging with an interestingly-built world.
[ The Characters ]
The book is split between several POVs and I found each to be an interesting perspective. Though we get lots of pages from other perspectives, I'd argue that Henry Schmitt is the main character. He is an average fellow who just wants to live a quiet life with his supply of instant noodles. As he learns more about the rebellion, he becomes determined to take part somehow. He was a fun character to follow, being timid and uncertain he was a bit different than your typical fantasy hero.
Andeal, Maniel, and Seraphin are the founders of the rebellion and play significant roles as well. Andeal is a staunch pacifist and believer in humane treatment as well as being a skilled engineer. Maniel is badass, a capable leader, and is a fierce protector of those she cares for. Seraphin is the "face" of the rebellion known as the White Renegade, and has a reputation far worse than his reality.
We also get a significant number of chapters from Captain Hans Vermen, a soldier who abandoned his command in order to chase after Seraphin to exact revenge on him for his brother's death.
[ Suggested Audience ]
Readers interested in a solarpunk setting, and fighting against corrupt governments with hot air balloons and radio broadcasts.
Readers who enjoy multi-POV stories, with characters coming together for a common goal.
Readers who like nonviolent, ordinary folk MCs, but also leaders of rebellions and pacifist engineers.
[ TL;DR ]
Viral Airwaves was unlike any other book I've come across, with its solarpunk setting, its ordinary MC, and its unique approach to a rebellion. I really enjoyed it.
Content Warning for pandemic, viruses, protests and police brutality.
August 7, 2017
The story is deliciously fast-paced, although it allows for slowdowns once in a while. Those short breaks never grow boring or pointless, however; the 464-page novel is action-packed and even I, who often wonder at the relevance of certain passages in other (ahem, traditionally-published) books, feeling as though the writer didn’t have enough story to fill 300 pages, couldn’t find a paragraph that didn’t belong.
The plot elements are brilliantly weaved into each other, too. I especially appreciated the discreet foreshadowing.
There is more romance than I like in my adventure novels, but… for me the perfect amount would be close to nil so it doesn’t really count. I didn’t buy all the love stories in the book, I rarely do, but I wouldn’t say they were badly handled; only, they aren’t the main focus. However, those are still better and more credible than the love stories in action blockbusters.
The characters are colourful and vivid. Maybe not as deep as the characters from another dystopian novel I reviewed recently, but deep enough. This book is action-oriented, after all. Too much psychology and emotions would have killed its entertaining quality and fast-paced awesomeness. My favourite is probably Treysh, but Andeal was the one I rooted the most for.
There is a bit of humour scattered here and there that either made me smile or laugh out loud. I love humour so this was the cherry on top. And besides, some of the events in the book are so terrible, I was glad for the relief those provided.
Of course, if I wanted to find faults with the book, I probably could. For one, there is so much knocking people out of their consciousness, it’s a miracle no one has any obvious brain damage. But I can forgive it just as I forgive it (among other things) in blockbusters or best-sellers all the time, because overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
The plot elements are brilliantly weaved into each other, too. I especially appreciated the discreet foreshadowing.
There is more romance than I like in my adventure novels, but… for me the perfect amount would be close to nil so it doesn’t really count. I didn’t buy all the love stories in the book, I rarely do, but I wouldn’t say they were badly handled; only, they aren’t the main focus. However, those are still better and more credible than the love stories in action blockbusters.
The characters are colourful and vivid. Maybe not as deep as the characters from another dystopian novel I reviewed recently, but deep enough. This book is action-oriented, after all. Too much psychology and emotions would have killed its entertaining quality and fast-paced awesomeness. My favourite is probably Treysh, but Andeal was the one I rooted the most for.
There is a bit of humour scattered here and there that either made me smile or laugh out loud. I love humour so this was the cherry on top. And besides, some of the events in the book are so terrible, I was glad for the relief those provided.
Of course, if I wanted to find faults with the book, I probably could. For one, there is so much knocking people out of their consciousness, it’s a miracle no one has any obvious brain damage. But I can forgive it just as I forgive it (among other things) in blockbusters or best-sellers all the time, because overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
March 5, 2017
The story is told in close third person from the perspective of three characters. Each character is flawed, but likeable... though not always at first.
Henry Schmitt is our entry into the story. He's one of the last occupants of a town dying after its tourism trade dried up. He just wants a quiet life and he's ill-equipped to deal with the disruption when he gets swept up with a gang of rebels who knew his father. These characters view him as cowardly, and perhaps he is. Henry's desire for normalcy and his tendency to eat when stressed made him very relatable, even as I was cheering for him to grow beyond these.
He's one of two asexual characters mentioned in the book and the only one that gets time onscreen. However, much like his stress eating, this part of his character isn't framed as a defining characteristic, but is rather simply part of the background. Diversity of race and sexuality is likewise a casual part of the story throughout.
The second POV character is Andeal, an electrical engineer who is one of the founding members of the rebellion. He's an important friend to Seraphin, the leader. He was also imprisoned with Henry's father, and the pair were experimented on by a government scientist. The result for Andeal was blue skin and an overriding fear of being imprisoned again. This fear provides an interesting counterpoint to his incessantly (and sometimes foolishly) optimistic personality.
The last POV character is Captain Hans Vermen. He deserts the army in his quest for vengeance against Seraphin for killing his brother. Hans is xenophobic and has some strongly internalised homophobia. At first glance, he's a repulsive character but he became one of my favourites as I discovered his motivations and watched him struggle with his prejudices. In fact, it was a joy to watch all of the characters battle with their flaws and make new connections with other people.
It is never specified whether the story is set in our world or some close parallel. What is clear is that the world has been through some kind of apocalypse. Bacteria has destroyed the world's oil supply and the population has been decimated by a plague. Oil-driven technology has been replaced: solar panels abound and government vehicles are all electric. Mass media has been reduced to radio, which is controlled by the authoritarian government who came into power in the wake of the plague. The setting feels at once modern and old-fashioned. While this mostly worked there were a couple of places where it jarred.
The pace is quite slow, particularly in the beginning. However, this was important for establishing the relationships that are at the heart of the book and there were occasional bouts of action that helped keep things moving forward.
The story bills itself as a hopeful one, but readers should be warned it gets dark in places. There is torture and character death, so tread with caution.
Overall, Viral Airwaves was a thoughtful, character-driven story that did a good job of drawing me in.
This review first appeared on Earl Grey Editing.
Henry Schmitt is our entry into the story. He's one of the last occupants of a town dying after its tourism trade dried up. He just wants a quiet life and he's ill-equipped to deal with the disruption when he gets swept up with a gang of rebels who knew his father. These characters view him as cowardly, and perhaps he is. Henry's desire for normalcy and his tendency to eat when stressed made him very relatable, even as I was cheering for him to grow beyond these.
He's one of two asexual characters mentioned in the book and the only one that gets time onscreen. However, much like his stress eating, this part of his character isn't framed as a defining characteristic, but is rather simply part of the background. Diversity of race and sexuality is likewise a casual part of the story throughout.
The second POV character is Andeal, an electrical engineer who is one of the founding members of the rebellion. He's an important friend to Seraphin, the leader. He was also imprisoned with Henry's father, and the pair were experimented on by a government scientist. The result for Andeal was blue skin and an overriding fear of being imprisoned again. This fear provides an interesting counterpoint to his incessantly (and sometimes foolishly) optimistic personality.
The last POV character is Captain Hans Vermen. He deserts the army in his quest for vengeance against Seraphin for killing his brother. Hans is xenophobic and has some strongly internalised homophobia. At first glance, he's a repulsive character but he became one of my favourites as I discovered his motivations and watched him struggle with his prejudices. In fact, it was a joy to watch all of the characters battle with their flaws and make new connections with other people.
It is never specified whether the story is set in our world or some close parallel. What is clear is that the world has been through some kind of apocalypse. Bacteria has destroyed the world's oil supply and the population has been decimated by a plague. Oil-driven technology has been replaced: solar panels abound and government vehicles are all electric. Mass media has been reduced to radio, which is controlled by the authoritarian government who came into power in the wake of the plague. The setting feels at once modern and old-fashioned. While this mostly worked there were a couple of places where it jarred.
The pace is quite slow, particularly in the beginning. However, this was important for establishing the relationships that are at the heart of the book and there were occasional bouts of action that helped keep things moving forward.
The story bills itself as a hopeful one, but readers should be warned it gets dark in places. There is torture and character death, so tread with caution.
Overall, Viral Airwaves was a thoughtful, character-driven story that did a good job of drawing me in.
This review first appeared on Earl Grey Editing.
October 13, 2020
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
This is my first time reading Claudie Arseneault, and this was her debut novel. That said, I picked up this book because I saw that the main character was asexual, and that the story would center around a group of rebels...which it did. That said...
~SPOILERY STUFF AHEAD~
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
...every single main character was either already in a relationship, or was in one by the end of the book. I picked up this book hoping that it would center other relationships between characters outside of romantic ones, and...sometimes it did? But to me, those relationships didn't feel central to the story. I'm ace myself, and I know that some asexual people end up in relationships, I was disappointed how the one mention of Henry's asexuality was jealousy at "never feeling that way" with somebody, and ended with him asking someone out at the end, focusing on the storyline of asexuality being something to pity, and the 'problem' being solved at the end of the book so that everyone's happy (because they're) in a relationship.
I was happy with all the queer rep in this book - I'm a sucker for the enemy to lovers trope, and I thought this book did well with it, as well as centering a lot of Black/POC characters, but in general, was a bit disappointed. Also, this book was SO. LONG. Could have been shortened, for sure.
This is my first time reading Claudie Arseneault, and this was her debut novel. That said, I picked up this book because I saw that the main character was asexual, and that the story would center around a group of rebels...which it did. That said...
~SPOILERY STUFF AHEAD~
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
...every single main character was either already in a relationship, or was in one by the end of the book. I picked up this book hoping that it would center other relationships between characters outside of romantic ones, and...sometimes it did? But to me, those relationships didn't feel central to the story. I'm ace myself, and I know that some asexual people end up in relationships, I was disappointed how the one mention of Henry's asexuality was jealousy at "never feeling that way" with somebody, and ended with him asking someone out at the end, focusing on the storyline of asexuality being something to pity, and the 'problem' being solved at the end of the book so that everyone's happy (because they're) in a relationship.
I was happy with all the queer rep in this book - I'm a sucker for the enemy to lovers trope, and I thought this book did well with it, as well as centering a lot of Black/POC characters, but in general, was a bit disappointed. Also, this book was SO. LONG. Could have been shortened, for sure.
June 10, 2017
This book killed me. It might look like I'm still breathing but don't let that fool you. I'm dead.
Honestly, I don't think I can appropriately voice my feelings toward this novel. I care about the characters so deeply, I was so gripped by the plot and I only paused while reading when I could either not keep my eyes open any longer or needed a short break because, as I said, the book was killing me.
So just, if you consider reading this book, do it. If I could have, I would have given it 10/5 and hell will freeze over before I stop caring about Henry and Andeal and Vermen and Maniel and Seraphin and David and everyone I forgot to mention, and come join me in this whirlwind of feelings.
Honestly, I don't think I can appropriately voice my feelings toward this novel. I care about the characters so deeply, I was so gripped by the plot and I only paused while reading when I could either not keep my eyes open any longer or needed a short break because, as I said, the book was killing me.
So just, if you consider reading this book, do it. If I could have, I would have given it 10/5 and hell will freeze over before I stop caring about Henry and Andeal and Vermen and Maniel and Seraphin and David and everyone I forgot to mention, and come join me in this whirlwind of feelings.
April 17, 2018
This book has everything a person could ask for! Rebels, secret radio shows, instant noodles, redemption arcs, enemies-to-lovers, on the page LGBTQIAP+ representation, strong character development and excellent world-building! I could go on, but, honestly, this list already sounds like a book full of awesomeness!
One of the things I loved the most, being a major in biochemistry with a strong interest in immunology, is the plague! Everything about it just blew me away!
While the tone is hopeful, a LOT of dark stuff happens in this book, and there are trigger warnings for murder, abuse, firearms, suicide, illness, casual homomisia, police brutality, riots, torture.
One of the things I loved the most, being a major in biochemistry with a strong interest in immunology, is the plague! Everything about it just blew me away!
While the tone is hopeful, a LOT of dark stuff happens in this book, and there are trigger warnings for murder, abuse, firearms, suicide, illness, casual homomisia, police brutality, riots, torture.
June 22, 2019
While in the middle of this book, I put it down for a month and almost entirely forgot about it. That can probably give you some idea of how much I “enjoyed” this book. While the beginning of the book had a pretty good start—interesting characters and a lot of action, the novel dragged on the further I got.
With some difficulty, I finally finished the novel. But I barely paid attention to the second half; I simply wasn’t interested in the plot or invested enough in any of the characters. Overall, the book has a interesting premise and a lot of potential, but I’m not a big fan of it as it currently is.
With some difficulty, I finally finished the novel. But I barely paid attention to the second half; I simply wasn’t interested in the plot or invested enough in any of the characters. Overall, the book has a interesting premise and a lot of potential, but I’m not a big fan of it as it currently is.
March 31, 2018
A captivating story of rebellion, love and friendship.
The characters are written beautifully and their development is as believable as inevitable.
The story is a roller-coaster of successes and losses that just won't let you go.
There are many queer characters, including an asexual character, a bisexual and a gay character.
Sadly there are exactly 2 women and all the other relevant characters are men, which I found really disappointing.
CNs for violence, death, police brutality, torture and trauma.
The characters are written beautifully and their development is as believable as inevitable.
The story is a roller-coaster of successes and losses that just won't let you go.
There are many queer characters, including an asexual character, a bisexual and a gay character.
Sadly there are exactly 2 women and all the other relevant characters are men, which I found really disappointing.
CNs for violence, death, police brutality, torture and trauma.
February 9, 2024
Why is revolution so heart breaking? I just finished this book and am sitting here, stunned, as I try and process all my feelings. In short, this book was so good. I got so damn attached to the characters so I'm heartbroken over the ending. But that's the nature of a revolution, isn't it? You don't come out of it unscathed. We don't need heroes. We need normal people to do a little bit, just what they can.
May 23, 2019
Exciting. The book is a wild ride. The characters are diverse and they do grow up as they go thru all the tests.
come-back-later
January 6, 2020I just can't focus on this right now. I will probably come back to this at a later point when I'm feeling the steampunk vibes more but right now it's just not working.
Read
June 9, 2021
Trigger & Content Warnings
Homomisia
Suicide
Plague
Murder
Torture
Gun violence
Explosion
Police brutality
War & rebellion themes
Homomisia
Suicide
Plague
Murder
Torture
Gun violence
Explosion
Police brutality
War & rebellion themes
July 14, 2016
Years ago, a deadly plague devastated the world and claimed Henry Schmitt's mother. A new power rose from the aftermath, uniting multiple nations under one totalitarian banner. Though Henry just wants to lay low and eat his instant noodles (and boy, does he love those damn noodles!), his life is upended one evening when a mysterious man comes to his home--pursued by a soldier hellbent on capturing him.
The soldier, it turns out, is Hans Vermen, an army captain known for rounding up members of a ragtag rebel group hiding in the mountains. And his quarry is the rebel leader, Seraphin, also known as the White Renegade. Henry hopes to resume his humdrum existence even after the confrontation between the two, but soon finds himself pulled into a revolutionary movement he has no stomach for. After learning an earth-shattering secret left behind by his late father--one that could shake the nation to the core--Henry realizes he has no choice but to step up for the first time in his life. And so armed with a hot air balloon, radio waves, and a determined sense of what's right, Henry sets off to unleash a truth that could change the world.
Man, I really enjoyed this book! I've always been a big fan of rebel stories--from Star Wars to V for Vendetta to the Lunar Chronicles, etc.--and I'm happy to add Claudie Arseneault's VIRAL AIRWAVES to my collection of "dogged underdog" stories. First off, Henry is a delightful protagonist. He's not just a reluctant hero--he's an incompetent one who has to figure out what this whole rebel business even means. He can't shoot, can't strategize, can't even work up the courage to leave home at first... He's as unlikely as they come. And seeing a character start from such a place and then grow into the hero of the story is incredibly satisfying. Also, he's very sympathetic, believable, and relatable. Because let's face it: If this world turned into a dystopia, most of us would probably be Henrys.
The book also features a fantastic cast of supporting characters. Actually, I'm not sure if "supporting" is the right word, since one of them feels more like a co-protagonist. Hans Vermen is cast as a villain of sorts initially--an establishment crony responsible for the deaths of many of the good guys' friends. Yet his backstory is plenty sympathetic--he became such a single-minded hunter of rebels after their leader killed his brother, and everything he does ultimately comes from a place of love and grief. You soon get the feeling that the Union was using that love and grief to fashion him into a weapon, practically to the point of brainwashing. When a rebel named Andreal shows kindness and generosity in spite of his past, Hans begins questioning his worldview, and we're set up for a fantastic redemption arc. And boy, do I love me some redemption arcs! I really loved watching his character develop over the course of the book as he's forced to confront himself and decide what kind of person he wants to be. And I don't think it's too much of a spoiler to reveal that he also wrestles with his sexuality, adding a compelling facet to his character and some much-needed gay rep to the world of sci-fi.
VIRAL AIRWAVES also features really interesting world-building, depicting an alternate world (possibly Earth, possibly not) in which petroleum is all but gone, and so most technology is distinctly old-fashioned. Airships, balloons, radios, and pistols. The rebels dwell in a low-tech mountain hideout consisting mostly of caves and tunnels. Yet there are hints that the world used to house more advanced technology, which gives the book a "regressive future" type of feel. A little post-apocalyptic, and yet almost idyllic in some ways. The world wasn't destroyed; humanity just scaled back.
Though Henry is ostensibly the main character, this book is about more than one young man's journey. It's the story about characters within a larger world, with multiple plotlines that diverge, then intersect, then diverge, then intersect, weaving in and out of each other to form a riveting narrative about revolution, friendship, and finding out not just who you are, but who you could be. It's got thrilling twists, exciting action, touching character relationships, and some quirky humor (especially in the bits starring Henry "Noodle Man" Schmitt). I stayed up way too late two nights in a row reading this book and was rather sad when it was over, because it's just that good.
The soldier, it turns out, is Hans Vermen, an army captain known for rounding up members of a ragtag rebel group hiding in the mountains. And his quarry is the rebel leader, Seraphin, also known as the White Renegade. Henry hopes to resume his humdrum existence even after the confrontation between the two, but soon finds himself pulled into a revolutionary movement he has no stomach for. After learning an earth-shattering secret left behind by his late father--one that could shake the nation to the core--Henry realizes he has no choice but to step up for the first time in his life. And so armed with a hot air balloon, radio waves, and a determined sense of what's right, Henry sets off to unleash a truth that could change the world.
Man, I really enjoyed this book! I've always been a big fan of rebel stories--from Star Wars to V for Vendetta to the Lunar Chronicles, etc.--and I'm happy to add Claudie Arseneault's VIRAL AIRWAVES to my collection of "dogged underdog" stories. First off, Henry is a delightful protagonist. He's not just a reluctant hero--he's an incompetent one who has to figure out what this whole rebel business even means. He can't shoot, can't strategize, can't even work up the courage to leave home at first... He's as unlikely as they come. And seeing a character start from such a place and then grow into the hero of the story is incredibly satisfying. Also, he's very sympathetic, believable, and relatable. Because let's face it: If this world turned into a dystopia, most of us would probably be Henrys.
The book also features a fantastic cast of supporting characters. Actually, I'm not sure if "supporting" is the right word, since one of them feels more like a co-protagonist. Hans Vermen is cast as a villain of sorts initially--an establishment crony responsible for the deaths of many of the good guys' friends. Yet his backstory is plenty sympathetic--he became such a single-minded hunter of rebels after their leader killed his brother, and everything he does ultimately comes from a place of love and grief. You soon get the feeling that the Union was using that love and grief to fashion him into a weapon, practically to the point of brainwashing. When a rebel named Andreal shows kindness and generosity in spite of his past, Hans begins questioning his worldview, and we're set up for a fantastic redemption arc. And boy, do I love me some redemption arcs! I really loved watching his character develop over the course of the book as he's forced to confront himself and decide what kind of person he wants to be. And I don't think it's too much of a spoiler to reveal that he also wrestles with his sexuality, adding a compelling facet to his character and some much-needed gay rep to the world of sci-fi.
VIRAL AIRWAVES also features really interesting world-building, depicting an alternate world (possibly Earth, possibly not) in which petroleum is all but gone, and so most technology is distinctly old-fashioned. Airships, balloons, radios, and pistols. The rebels dwell in a low-tech mountain hideout consisting mostly of caves and tunnels. Yet there are hints that the world used to house more advanced technology, which gives the book a "regressive future" type of feel. A little post-apocalyptic, and yet almost idyllic in some ways. The world wasn't destroyed; humanity just scaled back.
Though Henry is ostensibly the main character, this book is about more than one young man's journey. It's the story about characters within a larger world, with multiple plotlines that diverge, then intersect, then diverge, then intersect, weaving in and out of each other to form a riveting narrative about revolution, friendship, and finding out not just who you are, but who you could be. It's got thrilling twists, exciting action, touching character relationships, and some quirky humor (especially in the bits starring Henry "Noodle Man" Schmitt). I stayed up way too late two nights in a row reading this book and was rather sad when it was over, because it's just that good.
December 9, 2016
First off, I don’t really know which version of the book I read. I got the copy for free because I signed up to the newsletter and read later on the author’s website that the book was re-released and now had on-page asexual representation which was only implied in the first one. Judging from this info, I think I’ve read the old version. I still included the tag for asexual character, though, and hope that it really is more prominent in the new book.
Then, I wish I could give this book 4 stars and recommend it without any doubt, because, to be fair, most of the book is great. However, there is a plot development near the end that I really hated. I’ll explain more about this later.
Basically, this book has four very interesting and distinct characters through whose lenses the story is told. They vary in age, social and ethnical background, are from the LGBTQIA spectrum, and I loved spending time with them, and see them grow during the course of the book. This is especially the case for Henry whose story arc is mainly a coming of age story. But there’s also some kind of enemies-to-lovers theme that is for the most part really well done.
The setting of the book is unique and vivid. I especially liked the scenes in the mountain and in the air balloon, however, there were instances when I was surprised by some elements that I wouldn’t have expected in the world, like the mention of busses for instance.
There are two really cool and I would say perfect female characters which is utterly awesome. I think they are even the best characters in the book. The only thing that could have been better is if they had played an even larger role.
I think the pacing is Very slow. It didn’t actually bother me but I think the book would have been better, especially in the first half, had things developed faster.
Now the premise is nothing awesomely inventive, but it’s good and allows for an entertaining read, however, I think the execution in the second half, the bringing together of all strings and lose ends, wasn’t good. It felt more like things were in part too convenient and against all odds, on the one hand, and then not necessary, on the other. I don’t want to ruin anyone’s reading experience but I need to address this, because it is the reason for the lower rating, so please be aware that I will give away two major plot points.
*sigh* I’m disappointed. That always happens when a book lets me down later on. It is still mostly a good book, but… Well, yeah.
____________________________________
Genre: Fantasy
Tags: Asexual Character, Bi/Pansexual Character, Gay Character, Coming of Age, Rebellion, Air Balloon
Content Warnings: Violence, Murder, Homophobia, Torture, Capture, Medical Tests (in the past, off-page),
Rating: 3 stars
Blog: Review for Just Love Romance
Then, I wish I could give this book 4 stars and recommend it without any doubt, because, to be fair, most of the book is great. However, there is a plot development near the end that I really hated. I’ll explain more about this later.
Basically, this book has four very interesting and distinct characters through whose lenses the story is told. They vary in age, social and ethnical background, are from the LGBTQIA spectrum, and I loved spending time with them, and see them grow during the course of the book. This is especially the case for Henry whose story arc is mainly a coming of age story. But there’s also some kind of enemies-to-lovers theme that is for the most part really well done.
The setting of the book is unique and vivid. I especially liked the scenes in the mountain and in the air balloon, however, there were instances when I was surprised by some elements that I wouldn’t have expected in the world, like the mention of busses for instance.
There are two really cool and I would say perfect female characters which is utterly awesome. I think they are even the best characters in the book. The only thing that could have been better is if they had played an even larger role.
I think the pacing is Very slow. It didn’t actually bother me but I think the book would have been better, especially in the first half, had things developed faster.
Now the premise is nothing awesomely inventive, but it’s good and allows for an entertaining read, however, I think the execution in the second half, the bringing together of all strings and lose ends, wasn’t good. It felt more like things were in part too convenient and against all odds, on the one hand, and then not necessary, on the other. I don’t want to ruin anyone’s reading experience but I need to address this, because it is the reason for the lower rating, so please be aware that I will give away two major plot points.
*sigh* I’m disappointed. That always happens when a book lets me down later on. It is still mostly a good book, but… Well, yeah.
____________________________________
Genre: Fantasy
Tags: Asexual Character, Bi/Pansexual Character, Gay Character, Coming of Age, Rebellion, Air Balloon
Content Warnings: Violence, Murder, Homophobia, Torture, Capture, Medical Tests (in the past, off-page),
Rating: 3 stars
Blog: Review for Just Love Romance
August 2, 2018
I picked this up for the asexual rep but didn't actually notice it (I had to go online and check which character it was supposed to be) which was probably my fault for not noticing it. The book is about Henry, who lives in a small dying town and refuses to face the prospect of needing to leave. Then a rebellion shows up on his doorstep and he finds out a lot of things he didn't want to know! I did really like the characters and it was really nice to read a character who doesn't want anything to do with what's going on, is scared and anxious and is doing his best anyway but at times I did feel Henry was acting out of character and his decisions sometimes didn't feel right to me. But that's one of many point of view characters in this diverse fantasy and the whole cast are really intriguing and well built.
January 5, 2017
I picked this up, and had trouble putting it down. A very engrossing read with fantastic characters and a plot I liked (though I'll admit, I rarely tire of dystopias).
September 18, 2017
This started a bit slowly for me, but it picked up a lot, and I love where it went.
I really like the cast of characters here. Henry's growth is wonderful to read (and he's adorable), Maniel is amazing and terrifying, and Andeal is brave and committed and principled (but also not perfect, which I appreciated a lot). Hans also grows a ton, and his commitment to the people who become friends is my favorite thing. And then there's Treysh, who dyes her hair green and takes delight in making things explode.
This is a book about a resistance movement, about how and why people join such a group and go to incredible lengths to fight for what they believe is right. The group argues, splits up, starves, gets injured, gets captured. It felt difficult and sometimes brutal, but the cast is so bright and also there is a hot air balloon with propellers and secret radio broadcasts and a lot of instant noodles.
This is maybe the first solarpunk thing I've read? And whoa, it's cool.
I really like the cast of characters here. Henry's growth is wonderful to read (and he's adorable), Maniel is amazing and terrifying, and Andeal is brave and committed and principled (but also not perfect, which I appreciated a lot). Hans also grows a ton, and his commitment to the people who become friends is my favorite thing. And then there's Treysh, who dyes her hair green and takes delight in making things explode.
This is a book about a resistance movement, about how and why people join such a group and go to incredible lengths to fight for what they believe is right. The group argues, splits up, starves, gets injured, gets captured. It felt difficult and sometimes brutal, but the cast is so bright and also there is a hot air balloon with propellers and secret radio broadcasts and a lot of instant noodles.
This is maybe the first solarpunk thing I've read? And whoa, it's cool.
March 17, 2017
Loved it. Definitely one of my top favorites. Rebels, a secret broadcast, a hot air balloon -it already sounds awesome, and then it's so much more and even better.
I loved the atmosphere of this book. The writing is great, the story flows beautifully and there's always another adventure. The worldbuilding happens very naturally. It's a wonderful post-apocalyptic science fiction world with solar technology, radios, and zeppelins.
One of the book's strengths are its characters, they are diverse and have depth. Getting to know them, their backstories, mannerisms, and emotions is all the more interesting because we get to see more than one character's perspective. I liked all of them, and switching to another adventure was never a chore. Henry and Vermen's character developments are written excellently and seem very natural. It's a pleasure to witness.
I loved the atmosphere of this book. The writing is great, the story flows beautifully and there's always another adventure. The worldbuilding happens very naturally. It's a wonderful post-apocalyptic science fiction world with solar technology, radios, and zeppelins.
One of the book's strengths are its characters, they are diverse and have depth. Getting to know them, their backstories, mannerisms, and emotions is all the more interesting because we get to see more than one character's perspective. I liked all of them, and switching to another adventure was never a chore. Henry and Vermen's character developments are written excellently and seem very natural. It's a pleasure to witness.
February 8, 2017
I knew I was going to like the setting-a government who's lying, rebellion, conspiracy-this is my kind of book and I have not been dissappointed. It was totally great! Sometimes it’s ripped your heart apart but It's worth it. It's got thrilling action scenes who cannot stop you to read more and leave you with an heavy breathing and a cast of diverse characters from the lgbtq spectrum and diverse ethnicities. The way the author wrote those characters brings you closer to them and make it easy for you to care for them and their cause. I truly recommand this book to everyone.
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