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Mecha Samurai Empire
Cyber Shogun Revolution
The Man in the High Castle meets Pacific Rim in this action-packed alternate history novel from the award-winning author of United States of Japan and Mecha Samurai Empire.
NO ONE SURVIVES AN ALLIANCE WITH THE NAZIS. NOT WITHOUT USE OF FORCE.
California, 2020. After a severe injury, ace mecha designer and pilot Reiko Morikawa is recruited to a secret organization plotting a revolt against the corrupt governor (and Nazi sympathizer) of the United States of Japan. When their plan to save the USJ from itself goes awry, the mission is only saved from failure because the governor is killed by an assassin known as Bloody Mary. But the assassin isn't satisfied with just the governor.
Bishop Wakana used to be a cop. Now he's an agent of the Tokko, the secret police. Following the trail of a Nazi scientist, Bishop discovers a web of weapons smuggling, black market mecha parts--and a mysterious assassin. This killer once hunted Nazis but now seems to be targeting the USJ itself. As the leaders of the United States of Japan come to realize the devil's bargain they made in their uneasy alliance with the Nazis, Bishop and Reiko are hot on the trail of Bloody Mary, trying to stop her before it's too late.
NO ONE SURVIVES AN ALLIANCE WITH THE NAZIS. NOT WITHOUT USE OF FORCE.
California, 2020. After a severe injury, ace mecha designer and pilot Reiko Morikawa is recruited to a secret organization plotting a revolt against the corrupt governor (and Nazi sympathizer) of the United States of Japan. When their plan to save the USJ from itself goes awry, the mission is only saved from failure because the governor is killed by an assassin known as Bloody Mary. But the assassin isn't satisfied with just the governor.
Bishop Wakana used to be a cop. Now he's an agent of the Tokko, the secret police. Following the trail of a Nazi scientist, Bishop discovers a web of weapons smuggling, black market mecha parts--and a mysterious assassin. This killer once hunted Nazis but now seems to be targeting the USJ itself. As the leaders of the United States of Japan come to realize the devil's bargain they made in their uneasy alliance with the Nazis, Bishop and Reiko are hot on the trail of Bloody Mary, trying to stop her before it's too late.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2020
29 people are currently reading
3022 people want to read
About the author
Peter Tieryas
26 books696 followersPeter Tieryas is the award-winning internationally best-selling writer of the Mecha Samurai Empire series (Penguin Random House), which has received praise from places like the Financial Times, Amazon, Verge, Gizmodo, Wired, and more. The series has been translated into multiple foreign languages, won two Seiun Awards, and the Mandarin version was one of the Douban's Top 10 Science Fiction Books of 2018. He's had hundreds of publications from places like New Letters, Subaru, ZYZZYVA, Indiana Review, and more. His game essays have been published at sites like IGN, Kotaku, and Entropy. He was also a technical writer for Lucasfilm
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July 16, 20197-16-19 Cover reveal at B&N with art from John Liberto. This portrays the Sygma which is designed as an anti-mecha machine. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/blog/s...
The follow up to Mecha Samurai Empire revolving around a revolutionary called Bloody Mary. Can't wait to share this with everyone March of 2020.
The follow up to Mecha Samurai Empire revolving around a revolutionary called Bloody Mary. Can't wait to share this with everyone March of 2020.
August 19, 2025
I wanted to like this.
I saw it at Barnes & Noble and bought it on a whim—something I do as an occasional reprieve to only reading books that I've researched to death ahead of time. I’d been wanting to read something with mechas for a while, and the opening page seemed competently written.
The setup: In an alternate modern day where Japan and Nazi Germany won World War II and split control of the former United States, Reiko Morikawa—an elite mecha pilot—recovers from a severe injury and joins The Sons of War, a covert group plotting to overthrow the corrupt, Nazi-sympathizing governor of the United States of Japan.
During their assassination attempt, a notorious assassin known as Bloody Mary intervenes and kills the governor herself. But the victory is short-lived—Bloody Mary turns on the group, slaughtering most of its members. She shows up to a masquerade in a George Washington mask, by the way. Bloody Mary is easily the coolest character in the book; gives me V for Vendetta vibes.
So anyways, Reiko survives and teams up with Bishop Wakana, a former police officer now working for Japan’s secret police, to track Bloody Mary down and uncover her motives.
Their hunt leads them into a web of conspiracies involving smuggled Nazi weapons, black-market mecha parts, and dangerous figures on both sides of the border. As the pieces come together, they realize Bloody Mary’s true agenda is far bigger—and far more destabilizing—than anyone imagined. Reiko and Bishop have to stop her before she ignites chaos that could fracture the entire United States of Japan.
On paper, it’s everything I thought I wanted. But the reality is...I was bored.
I purposefully decided to read this at the same time as reading The Basic Works of Aristotle—as a break from what I knew would be a particularly challenging read. As it turned out, I actually got so bored with Cyber Shogun Revolution that I found myself opting for Aristotle as being the read that was more interesting. Let me say that again...Aristotle was MORE INTERESTING. And in case you’re wondering, yes, Aristotle is dry as fuck. So that’s saying something.
The pacing is fast. And yet it doesn't have any impact. It just feels breezy. Big plot beats blow past without leaving any emotional impact, probably mostly because, I couldn't bring myself to care about the characters one iota. They felt like cardboard cutouts. And also, everything is just stated so matter-of-factly that it just really has no impact. I'm just like oh, ok. That happened. I guess that person's dead now. Alright, whatever.
Also, a titanic problem with this book is that it's one of those where there is a big paradigm shift given from Bloody Mary to the main characters at the beginning of the book, and then you go the whole book with the main characters NOT embracing that paradigm shift WHATSOEVER. It just feels so obvious, like, HELLO.
So it was frustrating and there just wasn't any depth here. And you can only get by so long on the wish fulfillment of beating up Nazis before that starts to feel cringey because of the way it's written here. It just feels like I'm reading one of those "and then everyone clapped" stories on the Internet. Zero realism, pure ego-stroking.
I also wanted rich, tactile descriptions of what it’s like to pilot a mech—there's none of that here. Or what are the actual mechanics of these mechs, how does the technology work? Nope. There's just no meat to the ideas here.
And that's really the problem with the setting as a whole. In SF I read for setting and ideas more than anything. And there were fun little tidbits in the setting, like, I loved getting little random details here and there of things like what kind of Nazi junk food is smuggled across the border in Texarkana and stuff like that, but as the book went on, it became increasingly apparent that this fictional world is broad but really shallow, with lots of cool but inconsequential tidbits mentioned in passing but never explored.
Two stars, for me, isn’t the bottom of the barrel. This is just personal taste. I read to be challenged. I read for depth. I read for the author to show me insights into something—doesn’t have to be the deep human condition; it could be quirky observations about people or some fascinating bit of science. I also read for beautiful prose. And for deep, memorable characters. Really, there's a variety of ways to please me as a reader! But this book just fulfills exactly zero of them.
I think for the kind of book this is, it probably does what it sets out to do fairly well. I just don’t read to check off a list of tropes or revel in “cool-sounding” ideas. I read to genuinely feel something, to be called upward toward something sublime or to be engaged in wonder at science and the universe. If a book doesn’t do that, I move on from that author. I wish this writer well, and I’m glad there’s an audience out there who enjoys this sort of thing and I hope they have many happy reads in this genre.
There is a cool twist at the end, by the way. Well there's two twists, one of which is really obvious, but the other twist wasn't so much. So I enjoyed that. One really well-done twist.
Well. There you have it.
I saw it at Barnes & Noble and bought it on a whim—something I do as an occasional reprieve to only reading books that I've researched to death ahead of time. I’d been wanting to read something with mechas for a while, and the opening page seemed competently written.
The setup: In an alternate modern day where Japan and Nazi Germany won World War II and split control of the former United States, Reiko Morikawa—an elite mecha pilot—recovers from a severe injury and joins The Sons of War, a covert group plotting to overthrow the corrupt, Nazi-sympathizing governor of the United States of Japan.
During their assassination attempt, a notorious assassin known as Bloody Mary intervenes and kills the governor herself. But the victory is short-lived—Bloody Mary turns on the group, slaughtering most of its members. She shows up to a masquerade in a George Washington mask, by the way. Bloody Mary is easily the coolest character in the book; gives me V for Vendetta vibes.
So anyways, Reiko survives and teams up with Bishop Wakana, a former police officer now working for Japan’s secret police, to track Bloody Mary down and uncover her motives.
Their hunt leads them into a web of conspiracies involving smuggled Nazi weapons, black-market mecha parts, and dangerous figures on both sides of the border. As the pieces come together, they realize Bloody Mary’s true agenda is far bigger—and far more destabilizing—than anyone imagined. Reiko and Bishop have to stop her before she ignites chaos that could fracture the entire United States of Japan.
On paper, it’s everything I thought I wanted. But the reality is...I was bored.
I purposefully decided to read this at the same time as reading The Basic Works of Aristotle—as a break from what I knew would be a particularly challenging read. As it turned out, I actually got so bored with Cyber Shogun Revolution that I found myself opting for Aristotle as being the read that was more interesting. Let me say that again...Aristotle was MORE INTERESTING. And in case you’re wondering, yes, Aristotle is dry as fuck. So that’s saying something.
The pacing is fast. And yet it doesn't have any impact. It just feels breezy. Big plot beats blow past without leaving any emotional impact, probably mostly because, I couldn't bring myself to care about the characters one iota. They felt like cardboard cutouts. And also, everything is just stated so matter-of-factly that it just really has no impact. I'm just like oh, ok. That happened. I guess that person's dead now. Alright, whatever.
Also, a titanic problem with this book is that it's one of those where there is a big paradigm shift given from Bloody Mary to the main characters at the beginning of the book, and then you go the whole book with the main characters NOT embracing that paradigm shift WHATSOEVER. It just feels so obvious, like, HELLO.
So it was frustrating and there just wasn't any depth here. And you can only get by so long on the wish fulfillment of beating up Nazis before that starts to feel cringey because of the way it's written here. It just feels like I'm reading one of those "and then everyone clapped" stories on the Internet. Zero realism, pure ego-stroking.
I also wanted rich, tactile descriptions of what it’s like to pilot a mech—there's none of that here. Or what are the actual mechanics of these mechs, how does the technology work? Nope. There's just no meat to the ideas here.
And that's really the problem with the setting as a whole. In SF I read for setting and ideas more than anything. And there were fun little tidbits in the setting, like, I loved getting little random details here and there of things like what kind of Nazi junk food is smuggled across the border in Texarkana and stuff like that, but as the book went on, it became increasingly apparent that this fictional world is broad but really shallow, with lots of cool but inconsequential tidbits mentioned in passing but never explored.
Two stars, for me, isn’t the bottom of the barrel. This is just personal taste. I read to be challenged. I read for depth. I read for the author to show me insights into something—doesn’t have to be the deep human condition; it could be quirky observations about people or some fascinating bit of science. I also read for beautiful prose. And for deep, memorable characters. Really, there's a variety of ways to please me as a reader! But this book just fulfills exactly zero of them.
I think for the kind of book this is, it probably does what it sets out to do fairly well. I just don’t read to check off a list of tropes or revel in “cool-sounding” ideas. I read to genuinely feel something, to be called upward toward something sublime or to be engaged in wonder at science and the universe. If a book doesn’t do that, I move on from that author. I wish this writer well, and I’m glad there’s an audience out there who enjoys this sort of thing and I hope they have many happy reads in this genre.
There is a cool twist at the end, by the way. Well there's two twists, one of which is really obvious, but the other twist wasn't so much. So I enjoyed that. One really well-done twist.
Well. There you have it.
March 12, 2020
I received a galley from the publisher via NetGalley.
Cyber Shogun Revolution is a stand-alone book set is the same alternate history universe as Tieryas's United States of Japan. Reminiscent of the classic Man in the High Castle, Nazi Germany rules eastern America while Japan holds domination over the west—but both sides possess mechas and other advanced tech. Tieryas grew up on video games and anime, and inspirations and Easter eggs are everywhere in his books. This adds to the inherent awesomeness. It is so easy to imagine these books as an anime.
This novel has intense, near non-stop action and twists and turns as pilot Reiko and feared secret policeman Bishop struggle to find and stop a rogue agent dubbed Bloody Mary who seems intent to destroy the United Stated of Japan without regard for civilian collateral damage. War is shown at its ugliest, and it's clear that there is no ‘good’ government to root for here. This is not a vapid thriller. This book--as with the others--is packed with genuine heart that makes the battle sequences and sorrows all the more profound.
Cyber Shogun Revolution is a stand-alone book set is the same alternate history universe as Tieryas's United States of Japan. Reminiscent of the classic Man in the High Castle, Nazi Germany rules eastern America while Japan holds domination over the west—but both sides possess mechas and other advanced tech. Tieryas grew up on video games and anime, and inspirations and Easter eggs are everywhere in his books. This adds to the inherent awesomeness. It is so easy to imagine these books as an anime.
This novel has intense, near non-stop action and twists and turns as pilot Reiko and feared secret policeman Bishop struggle to find and stop a rogue agent dubbed Bloody Mary who seems intent to destroy the United Stated of Japan without regard for civilian collateral damage. War is shown at its ugliest, and it's clear that there is no ‘good’ government to root for here. This is not a vapid thriller. This book--as with the others--is packed with genuine heart that makes the battle sequences and sorrows all the more profound.
April 16, 2020
Cyber Shogun Revolution is and awesome novel. Individuals are blinded by their convictions, politics is a dirty game and war is blind when it comes to casualties.
November 27, 2024
Now I know why sometimes, there are readers who give half of a rating......this was to be a five but being the last book(according?? to the author, Really Mr. Tieryas, just when everything is about to become more exciting??!!!), I am hijacking that half star, to force you to write more stories of this amazing, amazing reality!!!
Finally!!! Action from the start, the past two books were a bit on the ummm descriptive type, it was always, history, world building, day to day habits, until the shooting starts, then action!!! This time action, reactions, actions, more world building, as more stories come out, the better (Mr. Tieryas)writes. I really like this third book a lot, gone were the day to day descriptions, self monologues by the protagonists, the one thing I never get tired of......those eating sessions hahahahha, if you watch korean tv series, they will always feature breakfast, lunch or dinner, same with these stories.
The story has truly progressed, taking the three books, I would say the first book is from 1945 until the 70's or 80's, the second one from the 80's to 2000 something, and the last maybe from 2005 till present, his writing style, the pacing, and mechas(new ones, there were a lot more), even if among the three books, book two had more mecha action, use, better and stronger mecha were always a plus........making each book a standalone, we never get to see what happened to the previous characters, Captain Beniko Ishimura, Makoto Fujimoto, but with book two continuing to book three, it was really a very pleasant surprise to read the further exploits of Nori and Kujira.
Until the next book.........
Glory to the Emperor!!! Kōtei e no eikō!!!
BANZAI!!!! BANZAI!!!! BANZAI!!!
Heil Hitler!!! Heil Mein Führer!!! Seig Heil!!!
Finally!!! Action from the start, the past two books were a bit on the ummm descriptive type, it was always, history, world building, day to day habits, until the shooting starts, then action!!! This time action, reactions, actions, more world building, as more stories come out, the better (Mr. Tieryas)writes. I really like this third book a lot, gone were the day to day descriptions, self monologues by the protagonists, the one thing I never get tired of......those eating sessions hahahahha, if you watch korean tv series, they will always feature breakfast, lunch or dinner, same with these stories.
The story has truly progressed, taking the three books, I would say the first book is from 1945 until the 70's or 80's, the second one from the 80's to 2000 something, and the last maybe from 2005 till present, his writing style, the pacing, and mechas(new ones, there were a lot more), even if among the three books, book two had more mecha action, use, better and stronger mecha were always a plus........making each book a standalone, we never get to see what happened to the previous characters, Captain Beniko Ishimura, Makoto Fujimoto, but with book two continuing to book three, it was really a very pleasant surprise to read the further exploits of Nori and Kujira.
Until the next book.........
Glory to the Emperor!!! Kōtei e no eikō!!!
BANZAI!!!! BANZAI!!!! BANZAI!!!
Heil Hitler!!! Heil Mein Führer!!! Seig Heil!!!
February 15, 2020
Chalked-full of action with two interesting main characters easy to sympathize with and walk beside (though terrifying as well with the tortures abounding in this world).
I liked this read far more than I thought I would, figuring it would come across clunky or confusing as a reader not typically known for nabbing this type of science fiction genre (robots, machines, and such) off the shelf. But Mr. Tieryas kept me engaged and piqued with this idea of America cut in half by the Nazis and Japanese Empire, a place one never knows if they're being stabbed in the back, discovering too late that they'd been mislead by trusting their superiors too blindly, following orders that stemmed from stretched and contorted truths.
This is my first novel by Peter Tieryas, but if I'm able to get my hands on more of his works regarding this world, it will definitely be a treat. Super excited to see where Reiko and Bishop's lives takes them next. The only negative for me was so much of the same superior revelations as the mechas went head to head; not that they were bland per say, just quite similar.
Great read in trying something new. If you're a robot fighting fanatic, CYBER SHOGUN REVOLUTION will likely be a five star book for you!!
Super thanks to Penguin Random House for an early opportune read :D
I liked this read far more than I thought I would, figuring it would come across clunky or confusing as a reader not typically known for nabbing this type of science fiction genre (robots, machines, and such) off the shelf. But Mr. Tieryas kept me engaged and piqued with this idea of America cut in half by the Nazis and Japanese Empire, a place one never knows if they're being stabbed in the back, discovering too late that they'd been mislead by trusting their superiors too blindly, following orders that stemmed from stretched and contorted truths.
This is my first novel by Peter Tieryas, but if I'm able to get my hands on more of his works regarding this world, it will definitely be a treat. Super excited to see where Reiko and Bishop's lives takes them next. The only negative for me was so much of the same superior revelations as the mechas went head to head; not that they were bland per say, just quite similar.
Great read in trying something new. If you're a robot fighting fanatic, CYBER SHOGUN REVOLUTION will likely be a five star book for you!!
Super thanks to Penguin Random House for an early opportune read :D
February 3, 2020
An action packed alternate future with plenty of cool technology dreamed up by an amazing writer!
Japan and Germany won World War II. The end result is a world split between the two, but that is only the backdrop to this story. This book centers on 2 protagonists trying to learn the truth and be part of the solution of shrugging off the controls of the government. But everything they thought they knew has been twisted and molded around lies.
The mechas (large machines controlled by humans) feel like they come from a graphic novel, but are the main fighting forces in this new era. When these titans come together in battle, it is up to the skills of the pilot and technology of the mecha to decide the winner.
The story flows well, even as we toggle between our two heroes' storylines. Set in an America with recognizable features, but a vastly different culture, we are carried along as a revolution is set in motion. Intrigue, loyalty and revelations will challenge the reader clear up to the ending.
Some mild language and acts of violence, including seppuku (honor suicide), push this towards teen readers.
* I received an advance reading copy through Goodreads giveaways. *
Japan and Germany won World War II. The end result is a world split between the two, but that is only the backdrop to this story. This book centers on 2 protagonists trying to learn the truth and be part of the solution of shrugging off the controls of the government. But everything they thought they knew has been twisted and molded around lies.
The mechas (large machines controlled by humans) feel like they come from a graphic novel, but are the main fighting forces in this new era. When these titans come together in battle, it is up to the skills of the pilot and technology of the mecha to decide the winner.
The story flows well, even as we toggle between our two heroes' storylines. Set in an America with recognizable features, but a vastly different culture, we are carried along as a revolution is set in motion. Intrigue, loyalty and revelations will challenge the reader clear up to the ending.
Some mild language and acts of violence, including seppuku (honor suicide), push this towards teen readers.
* I received an advance reading copy through Goodreads giveaways. *
March 7, 2020
This book is an incredible rollercoaster of a thriller that incorporates elements of suspense, spy tales, and action, which it then tops up with adrenaline-rush-inducing mecha battles.
The latest installment in the United States of Japan continues the story of an alternate world where Japan and Germany won WWII and split up the world (and the US) between them. It also continues the tradition of being something that you could read as a stand-alone novel and not worry about knowing characters because the story focuses on all new characters.
Both of the main characters are relatable and you can fully get behind what they're doing and the fact that they are constantly surrounded by side characters that are always as interesting (even when they're only there for a few paragraphs) is just further testament to how well Tieryas has crafted his tale.
I'm not even going to go into the story because there are several bombshells that I don't want to ruin, but I will say that there is a lot of intrigue, political machinations, military secrets, past traumas, and believable battles between giant robots. There is definitely something in here for everyone.
The latest installment in the United States of Japan continues the story of an alternate world where Japan and Germany won WWII and split up the world (and the US) between them. It also continues the tradition of being something that you could read as a stand-alone novel and not worry about knowing characters because the story focuses on all new characters.
Both of the main characters are relatable and you can fully get behind what they're doing and the fact that they are constantly surrounded by side characters that are always as interesting (even when they're only there for a few paragraphs) is just further testament to how well Tieryas has crafted his tale.
I'm not even going to go into the story because there are several bombshells that I don't want to ruin, but I will say that there is a lot of intrigue, political machinations, military secrets, past traumas, and believable battles between giant robots. There is definitely something in here for everyone.
March 4, 2020
Cyber Shogun Revolution is a great book. It blends sci-fi, alternate history, dark humor and anime culture into a suspenseful action story. Every time I think I can anticipate where the story will go, there's another plot twist that completely surprises me. Like the other books in the United States of Japan series, the characters are multi-faceted and expertly realized. The audiobook read is very good. Highly recommended!
January 10, 2020
Advance reading copy won in a giveaway.
A great story of revolution, corruption, and bravery with more of the great mecha combat that was portrayed in MSE. I think I read somewhere this was the final book in the USJ universe but I really hope we get some more in maybe another format.
I'm still buying the book the day it's released.
A great story of revolution, corruption, and bravery with more of the great mecha combat that was portrayed in MSE. I think I read somewhere this was the final book in the USJ universe but I really hope we get some more in maybe another format.
I'm still buying the book the day it's released.
February 13, 2020
I enjoyed the story. A fun lighter read with good action and character interaction. I enjoyed the world and will be reading the first two. I unknowingly started without reading the prior two but even so it gave information and did not make me feel like I was missing anything vital while still clearly following events that occurred previously.
September 15, 2019
read the advance copy, the best of the three books. bravo pt
March 2, 2020
I don't generally pick up science fiction books, but I was given an ARC from Ace/Penguin Random House. Thank you to the publisher. I found this to be entertaining; action packed with some humor.
March 12, 2020
Exhilirating end to one of the best trilogies.
March 29, 2020
Peter Tieryas hits another one out of the park with Cyber Shogun Revolution. His previous books, all set in the USJ, were great, but this one stepped things up to the awesome category. Very good story and memorable characters, old and new, (it was nice to see K back!). I cannot wait to see where he takes us in the future with this series. I highly recommend this book!
March 22, 2020
" . . . but we know that whoever holds the reins, nothing will change, our cause has gone insane."
~Muse, "United States of Eurasia," The Resistance (2009)
I've had the privilege of following this series from the beginning and have enjoyed watching its explosive success, particularly in Japan.
What would history have looked like if Japan and Germany had won World War II? Having just finished reading this third--and presumably final--book in a series that tries to answer this question with a mixture of outrageous fun and serious philosophy, I'm intrigued by the tone struck at the end.
Without giving the details away, I feel like there are two seemingly contradictory truths each of the main characters is forced to deal with in his or her own way.
History, for them, is essentially an endless cycle of corrupt regimes. One is scarcely better than the other . . . BUT there is such a strong desire to believe that we are capable of better things that, no matter how often they're deceived by their leadership and by the rottenness at the heart of their society, the characters insist on changing the names and faces and believing that THIS time, things will be different and they will reach those better things.
The other truth that wars with their desire to change their society for the better is that . . . in the end, what really matters is our loved ones. Those family members and friends around us who are what give our lives meaning. Sometimes, you have to choose between the needs of "society" and the needs of your loved ones.
The characters are not entirely successful in navigating the balance between "history" and family, but watching them deal with moral dilemma after moral dilemma is a large part of what makes Cyber Shogun Revolution more than just entertainment, more than just an imaginative celebration of Japanese history and pop culture within a future that might-have-been.
If you like alternate history and/or Japanese pop culture, this series is a must-read. There are audio versions available of all three books, and the second book (Mecha Samurai Empire) is narrated by Joel de la Fuente, who plays Inspector Kido in Amazon's "The Man in the High Castle" (which is an irresistible connection when you consider that Peter's books were directly inspired by TMITHC to begin with!).
P.S. One aspect of Peter's writing in this series that always makes me smile is the descriptions of food. There are some really wild combinations of ingredients here, like sushi topped with fried chicken . . . not to mention salmon-chowder-flavored sausage with prune juice and strawberry jam (sure, I can't say I'd recommend eating some of this stuff unless you want to run to the bathroom in five minutes, but it makes the story more amusing, that's for sure).
~Muse, "United States of Eurasia," The Resistance (2009)
I've had the privilege of following this series from the beginning and have enjoyed watching its explosive success, particularly in Japan.
What would history have looked like if Japan and Germany had won World War II? Having just finished reading this third--and presumably final--book in a series that tries to answer this question with a mixture of outrageous fun and serious philosophy, I'm intrigued by the tone struck at the end.
Without giving the details away, I feel like there are two seemingly contradictory truths each of the main characters is forced to deal with in his or her own way.
History, for them, is essentially an endless cycle of corrupt regimes. One is scarcely better than the other . . . BUT there is such a strong desire to believe that we are capable of better things that, no matter how often they're deceived by their leadership and by the rottenness at the heart of their society, the characters insist on changing the names and faces and believing that THIS time, things will be different and they will reach those better things.
The other truth that wars with their desire to change their society for the better is that . . . in the end, what really matters is our loved ones. Those family members and friends around us who are what give our lives meaning. Sometimes, you have to choose between the needs of "society" and the needs of your loved ones.
The characters are not entirely successful in navigating the balance between "history" and family, but watching them deal with moral dilemma after moral dilemma is a large part of what makes Cyber Shogun Revolution more than just entertainment, more than just an imaginative celebration of Japanese history and pop culture within a future that might-have-been.
If you like alternate history and/or Japanese pop culture, this series is a must-read. There are audio versions available of all three books, and the second book (Mecha Samurai Empire) is narrated by Joel de la Fuente, who plays Inspector Kido in Amazon's "The Man in the High Castle" (which is an irresistible connection when you consider that Peter's books were directly inspired by TMITHC to begin with!).
P.S. One aspect of Peter's writing in this series that always makes me smile is the descriptions of food. There are some really wild combinations of ingredients here, like sushi topped with fried chicken . . . not to mention salmon-chowder-flavored sausage with prune juice and strawberry jam (sure, I can't say I'd recommend eating some of this stuff unless you want to run to the bathroom in five minutes, but it makes the story more amusing, that's for sure).
January 4, 2021
Rating of 4.5.
If you like the sound of a gritty spy thriller set in an alternate version of America filled with destructive mechas, then you really need to check out Cyber Shogun Revolution, the third novel in Peter Tieryas’s outstanding United States of Japan series.
The United States of Japan novels are a fun and inventive series that is routinely described as a combination between The Man in the High Castle and Pacific Rim. This series is set in an alternate history in which the United States lost World War II after Japan invented mechas to defeat the Allies. Following the end of the war, the United States was split between the Japanese Empire and the Nazis, who subsequently engaged in an extended and brutal Cold War against each other. This latest novel is set in 2020 and features an intense and thrilling new tale that is separate from the stories told in the previous two entries in the series.
Following the end of the latest war against the Nazis, the United States of Japan is facing a crisis as their corrupt governor appears to be a Nazi sympathiser, secretly doing their enemy’s bidding. Seeking justice after a brutal Nazi attack in Kansas, mecha pilot Reiko Morikawa joins a secret organisation of high-ranking soldiers, mecha pilots and politicians, known as The Sons of War, who plot to assassinate the governor and replace him with one of their own. While their initial plan to kill the governor goes awry, their target is still killed thanks to the intervention of the mysterious assassin and feared Nazi slayer, Bloody Mary.
However, Bloody Mary has a whole different agenda and swiftly turns against The Sons of War, assassinating key members of the organisation in a brutal strike that leaves Reiko as the only survivor. Determined to find out why Bloody Mary betrayed them, Reiko teams up with Bishop Wakan, an agent of Japan’s secret police, the Tokko, to hunt her down and stop her plot. Tracing a shipment of black market mecha parts to Nazi America, Reiko and Bishop travel into enemy territory to find answers and soon find themselves in the midst of a massive conspiracy. Bloody Mary has plans to change the entire United States of Japan forever, and she does not care who dies to achieve her goal. Can Reiko and Bishop stop her before it is too late, or will the entire world feel Bloody Mary’s wrath?
To see the full review, click the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2021/01/04/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
If you like the sound of a gritty spy thriller set in an alternate version of America filled with destructive mechas, then you really need to check out Cyber Shogun Revolution, the third novel in Peter Tieryas’s outstanding United States of Japan series.
The United States of Japan novels are a fun and inventive series that is routinely described as a combination between The Man in the High Castle and Pacific Rim. This series is set in an alternate history in which the United States lost World War II after Japan invented mechas to defeat the Allies. Following the end of the war, the United States was split between the Japanese Empire and the Nazis, who subsequently engaged in an extended and brutal Cold War against each other. This latest novel is set in 2020 and features an intense and thrilling new tale that is separate from the stories told in the previous two entries in the series.
Following the end of the latest war against the Nazis, the United States of Japan is facing a crisis as their corrupt governor appears to be a Nazi sympathiser, secretly doing their enemy’s bidding. Seeking justice after a brutal Nazi attack in Kansas, mecha pilot Reiko Morikawa joins a secret organisation of high-ranking soldiers, mecha pilots and politicians, known as The Sons of War, who plot to assassinate the governor and replace him with one of their own. While their initial plan to kill the governor goes awry, their target is still killed thanks to the intervention of the mysterious assassin and feared Nazi slayer, Bloody Mary.
However, Bloody Mary has a whole different agenda and swiftly turns against The Sons of War, assassinating key members of the organisation in a brutal strike that leaves Reiko as the only survivor. Determined to find out why Bloody Mary betrayed them, Reiko teams up with Bishop Wakan, an agent of Japan’s secret police, the Tokko, to hunt her down and stop her plot. Tracing a shipment of black market mecha parts to Nazi America, Reiko and Bishop travel into enemy territory to find answers and soon find themselves in the midst of a massive conspiracy. Bloody Mary has plans to change the entire United States of Japan forever, and she does not care who dies to achieve her goal. Can Reiko and Bishop stop her before it is too late, or will the entire world feel Bloody Mary’s wrath?
To see the full review, click the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2021/01/04/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
March 13, 2020
Great book that once again has amazing action. I cannot say enough how much I love the realism that is placed on the mechs in this series. I also really enjoyed the journey of the main characters, finding out who they are and the struggle as they learn about what they are really fighting for. I liked the cameos from characters from past books also. I love the direction that the USJ is headed. I look forward to what tomorrow brings this world that Peter has created.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2019
If you enjoy the Japanese cartoons and graphic novels, this story is right up your alley. The nazis and Japan have conquered and taken over the old America. The Japanese and Nazis are now fighting each other. Political factions on both sides attempt to gain control. Throw in an assassin. This was a free advance read copy from the author obtained through Goodreads.com.
March 27, 2020
This is a GOOD one. I only let myself read a little at a time to make it last longer. The world, all the things I didn’t see coming, I enjoyed every moment. Stellar all around.
June 5, 2021
I enjoyed the second book in this alternate History series where America lost WWII to Germany and Japan and they end up splitting the country in half. I also like that the series is more stories set and advancing in time - Book 1 outlined the world and setting, this book advances the time and technology and the third continues - each with different characters and scenarios. Similar to Ian Bank's structure for his Culture series - but far more confined to post-war America.
Overall its a fun, light read - that if you set your mind to cruise you won't likely find too hard to digest. Think too hard about the actual or perceived socio-political evolution of the outcome of WWII and these powers and you know what is presented could never actually last as long as it does in this book. (Ignoring the Nazi and Japanese super-science).
I recommend these books for fans of Anime, pulpy sci-fi with a little noir thrown in and I wait and watch to see where the series may lead.
Overall its a fun, light read - that if you set your mind to cruise you won't likely find too hard to digest. Think too hard about the actual or perceived socio-political evolution of the outcome of WWII and these powers and you know what is presented could never actually last as long as it does in this book. (Ignoring the Nazi and Japanese super-science).
I recommend these books for fans of Anime, pulpy sci-fi with a little noir thrown in and I wait and watch to see where the series may lead.
August 10, 2020
Oh **** this is so good. Maybe my favorite in the series (though it's hard to compare to USJ). The banter between Reiko and Bishop is especially great. And of course: MECHS! I am now 100% sadder about the series ending than I was before (and I was pretty damn sad about it).
November 23, 2020
El final de la gran trilogía Imperio Mecha Samurai de Peter Tieryas, la cual disfruté de principio a fin. Comenzó cuando vi la reseña de El geek furioso de la literatura, luego de ver varias reseñas que lo alababan tanto en inglés como español conseguí la primera parte, después me enteré que en México lo conseguías importado y pues conseguí la secuela desde Colombia, luego Penguin Random House se hizo mensa y como siempre dejaron la saga inconclusa, al menos hasta el día en que se escribe esta reseña, lo cual es un insulto pero en fin, siguen vendiendo la primer parte en todos lados, aunque no publicitan las demás, el mundo editorial es raro y lleno de imbéciles al parecer y pues tocó leerlo solo en su idioma original.
Terminado el rant, puedo decir que esta tercera parte (como sus dos anteriores), cubre mis expectativas, las supera y me deja totalmente satisfecho si realmente este es el final de la saga, espero no saquen cómics o cosas así, esto debe de seguir en novelas, es precioso el mundo, este cierra los tres arcos, te da a entender o te muestra lo que pasó con los protagonistas de cada uno, introduce dos nuevos que tienen su personalidad bien formada y marcada, estamos en el futuro de los Estados Unidos de Japón, hay un nuevo mandatario, un golpe de estado, una asesina legendaria, una manipulación y aún... hay deseo de libertad.
En general si se compara con sus antecesores, este libro es inferior, porque el thriller presentado en el primero es superior, más enigmático y mucho menos predecible, si lo comparamos con el segundo, sus combates de mechas aunque buenos son menos emocionantes. Pero compararlo con los otros dos libros es un completo error, es estúpido, este libro no es lo mismo, este libro habla más profundamente de lo que los otros dos tocaron, pero este profundiza, las consecuencias de las acciones, de la guerra, el sufrimiento, la crueldad ahí es superior a los otros dos y se pone a la par.
Desde un principio vemos personajes que son personas destruidas, incompletas, traumatizadas, y eso que nunca se da el posible gran conflicto que se anunciaba en toda la saga, sin embargo no importa en estos tres, vemos a los EUJ, a su sociedad hasta cierto punto decadente, esta ucronía de ciencia ficción que parecía casi perfecta en los primeros dos, muestra sus fallas, el otro lado. Esta vez estamos más lejos del imperio que nunca.
Da gusto ver que regresen algunos personajes, sobre todo una que le tengo mucho cariño desde el principio, no es spoiler puesto que a las pocas páginas aparece. Me encantó un final que tiene coherencia, desde el principio ningún personaje es bueno ni malo y aquí queda más que claro, cada uno tiene sus ideales, cada uno es villano o héroe según quien y el momento en que se mire, cada quien lucha por sus ideales, aunque no siempre estén seguros de hacer lo correcto.
Cyber Shogun Revolution puede ser leído independientemente como los otros dos que le preceden, pero hacerlo en orden enriquece cada uno, y da mucho más sentido a menciones, tecnologías y forma de pensar de los personajes, ya que vas viendo cómo fue evolucionando la sociedad en cada uno. Una excelente saga que solo me hace querer leer más del autor, tiene dos novelas previas que espero pronto poner mis malévolas garras encima.
Terminado el rant, puedo decir que esta tercera parte (como sus dos anteriores), cubre mis expectativas, las supera y me deja totalmente satisfecho si realmente este es el final de la saga, espero no saquen cómics o cosas así, esto debe de seguir en novelas, es precioso el mundo, este cierra los tres arcos, te da a entender o te muestra lo que pasó con los protagonistas de cada uno, introduce dos nuevos que tienen su personalidad bien formada y marcada, estamos en el futuro de los Estados Unidos de Japón, hay un nuevo mandatario, un golpe de estado, una asesina legendaria, una manipulación y aún... hay deseo de libertad.
En general si se compara con sus antecesores, este libro es inferior, porque el thriller presentado en el primero es superior, más enigmático y mucho menos predecible, si lo comparamos con el segundo, sus combates de mechas aunque buenos son menos emocionantes. Pero compararlo con los otros dos libros es un completo error, es estúpido, este libro no es lo mismo, este libro habla más profundamente de lo que los otros dos tocaron, pero este profundiza, las consecuencias de las acciones, de la guerra, el sufrimiento, la crueldad ahí es superior a los otros dos y se pone a la par.
Desde un principio vemos personajes que son personas destruidas, incompletas, traumatizadas, y eso que nunca se da el posible gran conflicto que se anunciaba en toda la saga, sin embargo no importa en estos tres, vemos a los EUJ, a su sociedad hasta cierto punto decadente, esta ucronía de ciencia ficción que parecía casi perfecta en los primeros dos, muestra sus fallas, el otro lado. Esta vez estamos más lejos del imperio que nunca.
Da gusto ver que regresen algunos personajes, sobre todo una que le tengo mucho cariño desde el principio, no es spoiler puesto que a las pocas páginas aparece. Me encantó un final que tiene coherencia, desde el principio ningún personaje es bueno ni malo y aquí queda más que claro, cada uno tiene sus ideales, cada uno es villano o héroe según quien y el momento en que se mire, cada quien lucha por sus ideales, aunque no siempre estén seguros de hacer lo correcto.
Cyber Shogun Revolution puede ser leído independientemente como los otros dos que le preceden, pero hacerlo en orden enriquece cada uno, y da mucho más sentido a menciones, tecnologías y forma de pensar de los personajes, ya que vas viendo cómo fue evolucionando la sociedad en cada uno. Una excelente saga que solo me hace querer leer más del autor, tiene dos novelas previas que espero pronto poner mis malévolas garras encima.
April 24, 2020
Peter Tieryas's United States of Japan series easily ranks as one of the greatest science fiction series that I have ever read. Each and every book is a stand-alone fun action-packed wild ride but, while still managing to be well written and have literary depth and value. Whereas Mecha Samurai Empire was a bit more light-hearted than the first novel of the series, Cyber Shogun Revolution returns to the gritty noir roots of United States of Japan but, with more awesome mecha fights. The balance is perfect and, with Cyber Shogun Revolution, Tieryas really refined his writing for battle scenes and went deep with his character developments. I could easily imagine and visualize every battle though Tieryas spectacular use of language and the main characters, especially Bishop, were an absolute joy to read about due to being written so well with such rich in-depth backstories and characterization. Getting to revisit and learn more of some old favorite characters from the USJ universe was also a fun extra treat. I also really appreciate the return to philosophical and theological ruminations. Tieryas, I'm not what his personal faith orientation is though I think he likely is influenced by Christianity and Christian imagery judging by references in both United States of Japan and Cyber Shogun Revolution, raises some very interesting philosophical and theological ideas in his novels. I would love to read an interview or know more of his thought processes behind his narrative choices from a philosophical and theological standpoint. Ultimately, I hope Tieryas has more stories from the USJ universe for us and that this isn't the end of a fantastic series!
November 29, 2019
(I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from Random House, in exchange for an honest review.)
I've always been fascinated by the fact that Peter Tieryas' "United States of Japan" series is set on an alternative timeline. Already it was interesting to read his interpretation of the 90's in his previous novel, "Mecha Samurai Empire." The fact that this latest entry in this universe of his creation is set close to, what will soon be, our present day is incredible in of itself.
Much like "Mecha Samurai Empire," "Cyber Shogun Revolution" is centered around new characters; both of whom have been changed - both literally and otherwise - from hardened life experiences of their pasts, in this war that seems to never end. It's a departure from previous characters we've encountered in this world. Reiko and Bishop are not quite at the age of resting on their laurels, but they've been around long enough to have seen things that they can never un-see.
The mechas that have graced every cover of the series doesn't play as prominent of a role as they did in "Mecha Samurai Empire," but still play a substantiating role when you compare it to their involvement in "United States of Japan." Reiko brings with her a tainted childhood dream of driving a mecha to explore the world. But that dream is tainted for a reason when we see the mechas pretty much exclusively for how they're used nowadays: For war. That's quite a departure from the optimism that Makoto carried with him in "Mecha Samurai Empire."
Perhaps one can consider this a long time coming, as the book makes the daring exploration into allegiances and the desire to do the right thing. But what happens when the side you're on is not one you no longer recognize, whether that be their values have gone astray or have morphed without you even realizing it? What then is considered right and what is considered wrong? Is that even a plausible question to be asking in the bigger scheme of things? It's because of Peter's willingness to tap into this aspect of the messiness of war that one may even consider to be his most ambitious novel out of the series yet.
On top of it all, I like how even with the change of characters over the course of time in the series that Peter had one remain consistent throughout all three of them. I won't say who it is, but if you've read "Mecha Samurai Empire," then it should already be obvious. This character may as well have the underlining theme that sums the "United States of Japan" series into a nutshell, which is that at the end of the day, we still remain to be snails living on razor's edge.
I've enjoyed this latest entry into the "United States of Japan" series, and I encourage all fans of Peter's work, and science fiction in general, to go give it a read when "Cyber Shogun Revolution" comes out March 2020.
I've always been fascinated by the fact that Peter Tieryas' "United States of Japan" series is set on an alternative timeline. Already it was interesting to read his interpretation of the 90's in his previous novel, "Mecha Samurai Empire." The fact that this latest entry in this universe of his creation is set close to, what will soon be, our present day is incredible in of itself.
Much like "Mecha Samurai Empire," "Cyber Shogun Revolution" is centered around new characters; both of whom have been changed - both literally and otherwise - from hardened life experiences of their pasts, in this war that seems to never end. It's a departure from previous characters we've encountered in this world. Reiko and Bishop are not quite at the age of resting on their laurels, but they've been around long enough to have seen things that they can never un-see.
The mechas that have graced every cover of the series doesn't play as prominent of a role as they did in "Mecha Samurai Empire," but still play a substantiating role when you compare it to their involvement in "United States of Japan." Reiko brings with her a tainted childhood dream of driving a mecha to explore the world. But that dream is tainted for a reason when we see the mechas pretty much exclusively for how they're used nowadays: For war. That's quite a departure from the optimism that Makoto carried with him in "Mecha Samurai Empire."
Perhaps one can consider this a long time coming, as the book makes the daring exploration into allegiances and the desire to do the right thing. But what happens when the side you're on is not one you no longer recognize, whether that be their values have gone astray or have morphed without you even realizing it? What then is considered right and what is considered wrong? Is that even a plausible question to be asking in the bigger scheme of things? It's because of Peter's willingness to tap into this aspect of the messiness of war that one may even consider to be his most ambitious novel out of the series yet.
On top of it all, I like how even with the change of characters over the course of time in the series that Peter had one remain consistent throughout all three of them. I won't say who it is, but if you've read "Mecha Samurai Empire," then it should already be obvious. This character may as well have the underlining theme that sums the "United States of Japan" series into a nutshell, which is that at the end of the day, we still remain to be snails living on razor's edge.
I've enjoyed this latest entry into the "United States of Japan" series, and I encourage all fans of Peter's work, and science fiction in general, to go give it a read when "Cyber Shogun Revolution" comes out March 2020.
September 5, 2020
Another solid entry into Peter Tieryas alternate history series set in a world where World War II went very different. Like the previous two books, Cyber Shogun Revolution (CSR) is set in the United States of Japan, a satellite nation of the Empire of Japan. The USJ is composed of most of the western states of the former USA with its capitol in Los Angeles. One of the most striking differences found between this alternate world and ours is the technology that is utilized, specifically the mechas. Giant walking tanks that are used for everything from construction to transportation and defense. In CSR, there has been a coup in the USJ, as the old administration is cleaned out and the new takes over a series of mysterious killings begin. Many blame the USJ's long time enemies, the German Americas, but for a handful of people, the enemy may be much closer than they think. Tieryas has constructed a fantastic world which blends advanced technology with many of the old problems humanity has faced over and over. There is love and loss, trust and betrayal, and for those few...a revelation that will change everything they knew.
December 7, 2023
Consider this a review of the Mecca Samurai Empire series 1-3. I read the first book a few years ago, and burned through the next two a few weeks ago. So it's an alternate history, where Japan and Germany won WWII because they had developed giant robots. It requires a bit more of a stretch to suspend disbelief on this one (how do you build a giant robot using 1940s tech?), but once that is out of the way it is awesome. I kind of love this series. The books are only loosely connected and span a few years between them. A few characters appear in different books, but in general the books are pretty self contained. They are pretty violent, but they are fast paced and have some decent humor in them. I like giant robots and this series has plenty of them.
June 28, 2020
This series of books are always fun, reading about huge mechas destroying each other in a strange world is enjoyable and the messages behind it are great. Tieryas never disappoints, although I do wish we got to learn more about the world itself.
July 31, 2020
Great scifi. A mix of alternate history and Dystopia, with quite a few twists, great action and never black and white when it comes to the political set up.
Series has managed to stay strong throughout.
Series has managed to stay strong throughout.
October 2, 2021
I need a book like this. Hell i need an anime like this. Politics, war and empires i love this book from start to finish. It reveals awesome world building and combines both dystopia and military genre. I also love that the main characters are those who are usually considered the bad guys
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews