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The Way City Chronicles #1
The Way to Battle
In Way City where genetically-engineered and organically born humans live side-by-side, fight and compete against each other, brothers Kagaali and Shuu just want to know who they are. From Basal, a mostly-abandoned stretch of ancient city to Apex, a tech-powered mecca controlled by the space colonies above, they have never found answers.
When one brother has a pre-cognizant vision like none other their world starts to unravel, even as incidents start to occur that seem to have something to do with their origins. These incidents force them out of their home in the suburbs of Apex and into the turbulent and violent surroundings of Basal, where the streets are controlled by a multitude of gangs and factions.
Separated by two of these warring groups, the brothers and their companions must figure out which path might help save Way City from a clandestine conspiracy that has been in the works for years or lead them all straight into it...
When one brother has a pre-cognizant vision like none other their world starts to unravel, even as incidents start to occur that seem to have something to do with their origins. These incidents force them out of their home in the suburbs of Apex and into the turbulent and violent surroundings of Basal, where the streets are controlled by a multitude of gangs and factions.
Separated by two of these warring groups, the brothers and their companions must figure out which path might help save Way City from a clandestine conspiracy that has been in the works for years or lead them all straight into it...
531 pages, Paperback
First published August 16, 2020
4 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
M.C. Hutton
3 books9 followersM.C. is an avid reader of many genres but mostly fantasy. Living in the lovely Tobacco Valley of Montana, she inhabits a comfortable home with two fuzzies and enjoys introverted activities such as drawing, movies, K-dramas, studying languages and other geeky things.
Author of the Way City Chronicles Trilogy, an urban dystopian science-fiction trilogy. People who like Minority Report, Space Sweepers, Awaken (k-drama), Psycho Pass, Final Fantasy VII or Akira may like this trilogy.
Author of the Way City Chronicles Trilogy, an urban dystopian science-fiction trilogy. People who like Minority Report, Space Sweepers, Awaken (k-drama), Psycho Pass, Final Fantasy VII or Akira may like this trilogy.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 31, 2022
A deep and rich world filled with characters you can't help but fall in love with
The Way to Battle is a story that revolves around genetically created twins who I immediately fell in love with. The story unfolds like a friend, welcoming you in with tidbits and snippets from varying perspectives and angles. The basic plot of the first book is uncovering the twins’ origins and the organizations, tribes, and gangs involved in every aspect of the world. It is masterfully done, and almost unbelievable that this is the author’s debut novel.
I learned to guard my heart quite quickly (LOL), and I remain skeptical about our beloved character’s fate. Despite this, I can’t help but feel a deep love for these characters (my poor reader heart…) There’s growth for many of the characters. Some I cheered for, others I felt smug about their futures, and the book creates a great runway for a lot of these characters to continue to change and grow.
The worldbuilding is rich and well thought out, showcasing genetic abilities like precogs (ability to see the future), telekinesis, telempathy, plagiopathy, etc. I found this fascinating as I’m new to the scifi genre, and I found myself devouring every aspect and detail. I didn’t exactly know where the book was going, and I was thrilled at where it headed. I may have internally screamed a few times at the VERY satisfying moments near the end then put it down happily knowing book two is out already.
I wouldn’t personally recommend reading this book over a long span of time—unless you have a better memory than I do—as each character has multiple names, nicknames, and aliases depending on the part of the story you're in. I found this confusing at times when switching who the characters were around the characters, but quickly was able to shift from one name to the other after referencing the previous chapters. This is something I struggled with J. R. R. Tolkien’s Silmarillion as well, so it's not a fault of the author, but a reader who has too much on their mind.
(Honestly, you won’t want to take your time with it, but I thought I would mention it…)
One of my only complaints is the time skips in the book. There are three of them. I thought the first one could have been wound back slightly to build up some more tension, and later in the book I was just upset I was robbed more time with these characters and left in suspense.
I would consider this series upper YA to the new adult/adult demographic, as the characters are 18/19 and we only spend a brief time in high school (THANK YOU). There’s nothing in it to deter young readers away, but it might be a more complex for some. Reader’s personal preferences will vary.
Overall this book kept me turning the pages well past my bedtime, which is a feat not many books can do. Fans of the show Supernatural would likely enjoy this book, as the twins have the same relationship as Dean and Sam. There’s also the same underlying sense of mystery and large-scale world you get from piecing together a large story. Honestly, It's hard to pick exactly what the book reminds me of, but I can say with certainty that I am thrilled to have found this series before many others. So if you’re tired of the same old same old, this might be exactly what you’re looking for.
As for me, I’m eagerly diving into book two of the series!
The Way to Battle is a story that revolves around genetically created twins who I immediately fell in love with. The story unfolds like a friend, welcoming you in with tidbits and snippets from varying perspectives and angles. The basic plot of the first book is uncovering the twins’ origins and the organizations, tribes, and gangs involved in every aspect of the world. It is masterfully done, and almost unbelievable that this is the author’s debut novel.
I learned to guard my heart quite quickly (LOL), and I remain skeptical about our beloved character’s fate. Despite this, I can’t help but feel a deep love for these characters (my poor reader heart…) There’s growth for many of the characters. Some I cheered for, others I felt smug about their futures, and the book creates a great runway for a lot of these characters to continue to change and grow.
The worldbuilding is rich and well thought out, showcasing genetic abilities like precogs (ability to see the future), telekinesis, telempathy, plagiopathy, etc. I found this fascinating as I’m new to the scifi genre, and I found myself devouring every aspect and detail. I didn’t exactly know where the book was going, and I was thrilled at where it headed. I may have internally screamed a few times at the VERY satisfying moments near the end then put it down happily knowing book two is out already.
I wouldn’t personally recommend reading this book over a long span of time—unless you have a better memory than I do—as each character has multiple names, nicknames, and aliases depending on the part of the story you're in. I found this confusing at times when switching who the characters were around the characters, but quickly was able to shift from one name to the other after referencing the previous chapters. This is something I struggled with J. R. R. Tolkien’s Silmarillion as well, so it's not a fault of the author, but a reader who has too much on their mind.
(Honestly, you won’t want to take your time with it, but I thought I would mention it…)
One of my only complaints is the time skips in the book. There are three of them. I thought the first one could have been wound back slightly to build up some more tension, and later in the book I was just upset I was robbed more time with these characters and left in suspense.
I would consider this series upper YA to the new adult/adult demographic, as the characters are 18/19 and we only spend a brief time in high school (THANK YOU). There’s nothing in it to deter young readers away, but it might be a more complex for some. Reader’s personal preferences will vary.
Overall this book kept me turning the pages well past my bedtime, which is a feat not many books can do. Fans of the show Supernatural would likely enjoy this book, as the twins have the same relationship as Dean and Sam. There’s also the same underlying sense of mystery and large-scale world you get from piecing together a large story. Honestly, It's hard to pick exactly what the book reminds me of, but I can say with certainty that I am thrilled to have found this series before many others. So if you’re tired of the same old same old, this might be exactly what you’re looking for.
As for me, I’m eagerly diving into book two of the series!
October 14, 2025
From chapter one you are grabbed and thrown into the future. A future where genetically humans rule the world. The world building and character development was very good throughout the book. The plot twist in the story will keep you coming back for more.
December 22, 2025
Book Review
Author: M.C. Hutton
Title: The Way to Battle
Book Rating: 3.5 Stars
Genre: Science Fiction
The Way to Battle by M.C. Hutton was a fun Young Adult sci-fi read about 2 brothers trying to survive in a world that wants nothing to do with them. This book is chock-full of political intrigue, hidden agendas, and a world where everyone is out for themselves.
Brothers Kagaali and Shuu are genetically engineered twins trying to survive on their own. They have people come in and out of their lives, but it has mostly been them growing up. When one of the brothers has a vision, their world is soon stirred up. Soon, the brothers are separated as they try to save their city from a clandestine conspiracy that has been in the works for a really long time.
This is book one of a 3 book series, and it was highly entertaining. It was fun watching these brothers start off growing up on their own, and then meet people who helped and changed them.
Some criticism of the book is the awkward way some of the characters interact, especially with Kagaali and Shuu. I understand that they are twins, but at times I felt like they were interchangeable and often got confused on who I was reading.
One thing the Hutton did really well was world-building. Getting to explore Way City with the characters was fun. She also creates characters that you you’ll love, and ones that you’ll love to hate. Some POV’s I looked forward to, and there were some that made my skin crawl, and that isn’t a criticism.
Overall, The Way to Battle was a fun and addictive book that makes you crave the second in the series. M.C. Hutton knows how to build the tension and never slows down once the book gets started. If you like fast-paced YA science fiction books grab yourself a copy of The Way to Battle.
Author: M.C. Hutton
Title: The Way to Battle
Book Rating: 3.5 Stars
Genre: Science Fiction
The Way to Battle by M.C. Hutton was a fun Young Adult sci-fi read about 2 brothers trying to survive in a world that wants nothing to do with them. This book is chock-full of political intrigue, hidden agendas, and a world where everyone is out for themselves.
Brothers Kagaali and Shuu are genetically engineered twins trying to survive on their own. They have people come in and out of their lives, but it has mostly been them growing up. When one of the brothers has a vision, their world is soon stirred up. Soon, the brothers are separated as they try to save their city from a clandestine conspiracy that has been in the works for a really long time.
This is book one of a 3 book series, and it was highly entertaining. It was fun watching these brothers start off growing up on their own, and then meet people who helped and changed them.
Some criticism of the book is the awkward way some of the characters interact, especially with Kagaali and Shuu. I understand that they are twins, but at times I felt like they were interchangeable and often got confused on who I was reading.
One thing the Hutton did really well was world-building. Getting to explore Way City with the characters was fun. She also creates characters that you you’ll love, and ones that you’ll love to hate. Some POV’s I looked forward to, and there were some that made my skin crawl, and that isn’t a criticism.
Overall, The Way to Battle was a fun and addictive book that makes you crave the second in the series. M.C. Hutton knows how to build the tension and never slows down once the book gets started. If you like fast-paced YA science fiction books grab yourself a copy of The Way to Battle.
September 23, 2025
A Thrilling, Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi Adventure
The Way to Battle is the kind of book that grabs you from the very first page and refuses to let go. M.C. Hutton has created a vivid, futuristic world in Way City that feels both imaginative and unsettlingly real. The tension between genetically engineered and organically born humans is not only an exciting backdrop but also a clever exploration of identity, belonging, and the struggle for truth.
The story of Kagaali and Shuu is heartfelt and gripping. Their bond as brothers anchors the entire narrative, making the twists and dangers they face all the more powerful. As the plot unfolds—from the sleek, high-tech Apex to the raw, dangerous streets of Basal—I felt like I was right there, navigating the chaos, the betrayals, and the unexpected alliances.
The pacing is perfect: fast enough to keep the adrenaline high but layered with moments that make you stop and think about the deeper questions hidden within the action. The conspiracies, the gangs, the visions, and the desperate search for answers all build toward a climax that is as shocking as it is satisfying.
This is not just a story about survival in a divided city—it’s about the choices we make, the people we fight for, and the truths that can change everything. M.C. Hutton has delivered a science fiction tale that is thrilling, emotional, and thought-provoking in equal measure.
If you love stories that combine action, heart, and a world you can lose yourself in, The Way to Battle is a must-read.
The Way to Battle is the kind of book that grabs you from the very first page and refuses to let go. M.C. Hutton has created a vivid, futuristic world in Way City that feels both imaginative and unsettlingly real. The tension between genetically engineered and organically born humans is not only an exciting backdrop but also a clever exploration of identity, belonging, and the struggle for truth.
The story of Kagaali and Shuu is heartfelt and gripping. Their bond as brothers anchors the entire narrative, making the twists and dangers they face all the more powerful. As the plot unfolds—from the sleek, high-tech Apex to the raw, dangerous streets of Basal—I felt like I was right there, navigating the chaos, the betrayals, and the unexpected alliances.
The pacing is perfect: fast enough to keep the adrenaline high but layered with moments that make you stop and think about the deeper questions hidden within the action. The conspiracies, the gangs, the visions, and the desperate search for answers all build toward a climax that is as shocking as it is satisfying.
This is not just a story about survival in a divided city—it’s about the choices we make, the people we fight for, and the truths that can change everything. M.C. Hutton has delivered a science fiction tale that is thrilling, emotional, and thought-provoking in equal measure.
If you love stories that combine action, heart, and a world you can lose yourself in, The Way to Battle is a must-read.
January 15, 2026
Way City delivers a gripping, emotionally charged sci-fi story that blends high-concept worldbuilding with deeply human questions of identity, belonging, and choice. In a city where genetically engineered and naturally born humans uneasily coexist, the journey of brothers Kagaali and Shuu is both intimate and epic.
The contrast between Apex a sleek, tech dominated utopia and Basal a crumbling, dangerous remnant of the past creates a vivid and immersive setting that feels alive on every page. The tension between these two worlds mirrors the brothers’ internal struggle to understand who they are and where they truly belong.
The introduction of a powerful precognitive vision is a brilliant turning point, unraveling the story in unpredictable and compelling ways. As conspiracies surface and gang controlled streets replace suburban safety, the narrative never loses momentum. The separation of the brothers adds emotional weight, forcing each character to confront difficult choices amid violence, loyalty, and hidden truths.
What truly sets this story apart is how it balances action, mystery, and philosophy. The stakes feel real, the characters are layered, and the conspiracy at the heart of Way City is chillingly plausible. This is a smart, fast paced, and thought provoking read that will appeal to fans of dystopian sci-fi and character-driven storytelling alike.
A standout novel that leaves you eager for more. Highly recommended.
The contrast between Apex a sleek, tech dominated utopia and Basal a crumbling, dangerous remnant of the past creates a vivid and immersive setting that feels alive on every page. The tension between these two worlds mirrors the brothers’ internal struggle to understand who they are and where they truly belong.
The introduction of a powerful precognitive vision is a brilliant turning point, unraveling the story in unpredictable and compelling ways. As conspiracies surface and gang controlled streets replace suburban safety, the narrative never loses momentum. The separation of the brothers adds emotional weight, forcing each character to confront difficult choices amid violence, loyalty, and hidden truths.
What truly sets this story apart is how it balances action, mystery, and philosophy. The stakes feel real, the characters are layered, and the conspiracy at the heart of Way City is chillingly plausible. This is a smart, fast paced, and thought provoking read that will appeal to fans of dystopian sci-fi and character-driven storytelling alike.
A standout novel that leaves you eager for more. Highly recommended.
March 24, 2025
Book review
#bookloungereviewteam
The Way Of Battle
By M.C. Hutton
Sci-fi/dystopian/adventure
Description: In Way City where genetically-engineered and organically born humans live side-by-side, fight and compete against each other, brothers Kagaali and Shuu just want to know who they are. From Basal, a mostly-abandoned stretch of ancient city to Apex, a tech-powered mecca controlled by the space colonies above, they have never found answers. When one brother has a pre-cognizant vision like none other their world starts to unravel, even as incidents start to occur that seem to have something to do with their origins. These incidents force them out of their home in the suburbs of Apex and into the turbulent and violent surroundings of Basal, where the streets are controlled by a multitude of gangs and factions. Separated by two of these warring groups, the brothers and their companions must figure out which path might help save Way City from a clandestine conspiracy that has been in the works for years or lead them all straight into it...
I thought that this book was an okay book, I did fall in love with the characters which I think is what saved the book. I did not love the writing style. I found it hard to read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 stars
#bookloungereviewteam
The Way Of Battle
By M.C. Hutton
Sci-fi/dystopian/adventure
Description: In Way City where genetically-engineered and organically born humans live side-by-side, fight and compete against each other, brothers Kagaali and Shuu just want to know who they are. From Basal, a mostly-abandoned stretch of ancient city to Apex, a tech-powered mecca controlled by the space colonies above, they have never found answers. When one brother has a pre-cognizant vision like none other their world starts to unravel, even as incidents start to occur that seem to have something to do with their origins. These incidents force them out of their home in the suburbs of Apex and into the turbulent and violent surroundings of Basal, where the streets are controlled by a multitude of gangs and factions. Separated by two of these warring groups, the brothers and their companions must figure out which path might help save Way City from a clandestine conspiracy that has been in the works for years or lead them all straight into it...
I thought that this book was an okay book, I did fall in love with the characters which I think is what saved the book. I did not love the writing style. I found it hard to read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 stars
September 26, 2025
This story is very in depth! A lot of world building, a lot of characters that sometimes was hard for me to keep straight especially with one of the main characters having their names changed mid story. While I could picture a lot of it in my head like I was watching a show, it wasn’t always very clear and the jumping between the twins, and the two main sides that go to war with each other it got very confusing at times.
My attention was grabbed early on and was kept in quiet the grip through the story. One side character I didn’t like from the get go and it was interesting to see them throughout and was happy to see my instincts where spot on.
Set in the future, you follow genetically altered twin brothers who navigate their abilities and life. These brothers are incredibly close and watching them fight for each other, their friends, seeing them be separated and everything they go through individually was hard.
This is just the beginning, there is so much happening especially at the end. I will absolutely be reading the next book!
My attention was grabbed early on and was kept in quiet the grip through the story. One side character I didn’t like from the get go and it was interesting to see them throughout and was happy to see my instincts where spot on.
Set in the future, you follow genetically altered twin brothers who navigate their abilities and life. These brothers are incredibly close and watching them fight for each other, their friends, seeing them be separated and everything they go through individually was hard.
This is just the beginning, there is so much happening especially at the end. I will absolutely be reading the next book!
October 28, 2024
📚 My Review:
The Way to the Battle by M.C. Hutton 📚
M.C. Hutton
Wow just wow I’m hooked! And I can’t wait to read and review the other books in this series.
This book dives into the lives of genetically engineered twins, and from the start, I was completely invested and in love. The story unfolds in a way that feels intimate, almost like being let in on a secret, with perspectives from different angles that piece together this intricate world.
The world-building is top-notch—full of unique abilities like telekinesis and precognition—and the plot kept surprising me. The characters? Complex and lovable, with layers of growth and challenges that left me torn between cheering and fearing for them.
If you’re into sci-fi with deep character connections and a dash of suspense, this one’s for you. I can’t wait to read book two!
The Way to the Battle by M.C. Hutton 📚
M.C. Hutton
Wow just wow I’m hooked! And I can’t wait to read and review the other books in this series.
This book dives into the lives of genetically engineered twins, and from the start, I was completely invested and in love. The story unfolds in a way that feels intimate, almost like being let in on a secret, with perspectives from different angles that piece together this intricate world.
The world-building is top-notch—full of unique abilities like telekinesis and precognition—and the plot kept surprising me. The characters? Complex and lovable, with layers of growth and challenges that left me torn between cheering and fearing for them.
If you’re into sci-fi with deep character connections and a dash of suspense, this one’s for you. I can’t wait to read book two!
November 17, 2024
This author is going to do big things with their writing! I could envision this book becoming a movie! I have been dipping my toes into the science fiction waters this year and this one did not disappoint! The character development drew me in from the first chapter! I found myself unable to put the book down as the depth and development grew deeper. I did struggle a little with several character names being introduced to me quite quickly but the chart at the back of the book helped ease my confusion. The prose used made the novel
Very digestible and I could see readers of any age enjoying this adventure! I cannot wait to see what more is to come for this series and this author!
Very digestible and I could see readers of any age enjoying this adventure! I cannot wait to see what more is to come for this series and this author!
January 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: The Way to Battle by M.C. Hutton
Genre: YA Fantasy
This is the best book I’ve read in a while! M.C. Hutton does a phenomenal job of keeping you on your toes with surprises while developing your attachment to the brothers and other characters. She weaves a story that will keep you wanting more. I found myself constantly saying “one more chapter” when it was time to go to bed. At 414 pages in length, I quickly devoured this book and can’t wait to read the next in the trilogy.

September 12, 2022
This sci-fi grounded in modern realism had me turning pages after the first chapter. The setting takes place in an easily conceivable future for mankind. Hutton’s prose made the journey easily, using no unnecessary words or purple vocabulary. To me, the book was geared toward a YA audience and could easily sit next to books like Maze Runner in the bookstore.
November 2, 2025
This book was amazing! From page one it had me hooked! There’s surprises, drama, just everything you need in a good book. The world building was top tier and you can’t help but get attached to the characters. I will definitely be reading the next books in the series.
August 30, 2020
Keep reading... I will
Poor Lynna what is going to happen to her? What will Shuu do about Kagaali? Thanatos, I love this character right down to his firey eyes. This story grabs you and keeps you right to the end. I just have to know what happens next. Well done M.C. I will definitely be reading your next book!
Poor Lynna what is going to happen to her? What will Shuu do about Kagaali? Thanatos, I love this character right down to his firey eyes. This story grabs you and keeps you right to the end. I just have to know what happens next. Well done M.C. I will definitely be reading your next book!
September 1, 2025
📚 Book Review by R.M.Campbell 📚
Book: The Way to Battle
Author: M.C. Hutton
Genre: Fantasy/Science Fiction
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
#bookloungereviewteam
Way City is a metropolis populated by both genetically engineered and organic humans, living and working together, often competing against one another. Kagaali and Shunn are two twin brothers who want to know how they fit into this society and seek answers, using whatever it takes to achieve their quest. The twins are from the suburbs of Apex, a powerful section of the city controlled by off-world colonies above and stretches to Basal, the gang-controlled, poor part of the city. When one of the brothers has the conceptional vision of events destined for Way City, the brothers abandon their home and are forced into the gang-infested, violent part of the city, Basal, where they must come up with a plan to save the city from a hidden conspiracy.
Way City is a thought-provoking story that is both ominous and unpredictable. The characters are well-written, with the diversity between the twins riveting and captivating as the story progresses. The pacing was somewhat difficult due to the plot's intricate twists, but the story kept me turning pages well into the night. The interactions between the plot individuals were well-developed, and to some extent, complicated. This was an engrossing science fiction/fantasy novel that challenges the perception of the future of humanity. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
Book: The Way to Battle
Author: M.C. Hutton
Genre: Fantasy/Science Fiction
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
#bookloungereviewteam
Way City is a metropolis populated by both genetically engineered and organic humans, living and working together, often competing against one another. Kagaali and Shunn are two twin brothers who want to know how they fit into this society and seek answers, using whatever it takes to achieve their quest. The twins are from the suburbs of Apex, a powerful section of the city controlled by off-world colonies above and stretches to Basal, the gang-controlled, poor part of the city. When one of the brothers has the conceptional vision of events destined for Way City, the brothers abandon their home and are forced into the gang-infested, violent part of the city, Basal, where they must come up with a plan to save the city from a hidden conspiracy.
Way City is a thought-provoking story that is both ominous and unpredictable. The characters are well-written, with the diversity between the twins riveting and captivating as the story progresses. The pacing was somewhat difficult due to the plot's intricate twists, but the story kept me turning pages well into the night. The interactions between the plot individuals were well-developed, and to some extent, complicated. This was an engrossing science fiction/fantasy novel that challenges the perception of the future of humanity. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews