What do you think?
Rate this book
No-Mod: Book 1 of the Mute-Cat Chronicles
“In the beginning, God was said to have created everything in fairly short order. Some say 7 days. Others say 3. The truth is that god created nothing. God flipped a switch. The machines have been building ever since.”
In the crowded techno-religious city of Aberthene, almost everyone is augmented by biomedical modification. Part machine, and part human. The church rules the state and controls everything from production to housing.
Addeleigh Simmons works in a religious building cleaning out suicide booths during the day while attending classes and studying at night. She hopes to soon afford the costly surgeries for the biomedical modifications that all of her friends have. She's singled out as only human: a no-mod.
Her drab existence is upended suddenly when an armed group of Red Guards breaks into her dormitory. She escapes through a third floor window with her pet mute-cat, Bruce, and begins a journey that will expand her entire world.
She doesn’t know why she is being chased.
She doesn’t know who to trust.
But no one outruns the church.
Addie is being hunted.
Addie is hiding from God.
In the crowded techno-religious city of Aberthene, almost everyone is augmented by biomedical modification. Part machine, and part human. The church rules the state and controls everything from production to housing.
Addeleigh Simmons works in a religious building cleaning out suicide booths during the day while attending classes and studying at night. She hopes to soon afford the costly surgeries for the biomedical modifications that all of her friends have. She's singled out as only human: a no-mod.
Her drab existence is upended suddenly when an armed group of Red Guards breaks into her dormitory. She escapes through a third floor window with her pet mute-cat, Bruce, and begins a journey that will expand her entire world.
She doesn’t know why she is being chased.
She doesn’t know who to trust.
But no one outruns the church.
Addie is being hunted.
Addie is hiding from God.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2020
8 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Derek Porterfield
4 books21 followersDerek Porterfield has a wildly unsuccessful band and a troubling relationship with coffee.
His music has reached literally tens of people and has been played in over two bars and at least four small cafes.
He is a father, a filmmaker, and mediocre company at parties. He can also juggle, but is slowly learning that this isn't impressive to women.
He lives in Texas with his daughter, who remains every resplendent and joyous part of his life.
His music has reached literally tens of people and has been played in over two bars and at least four small cafes.
He is a father, a filmmaker, and mediocre company at parties. He can also juggle, but is slowly learning that this isn't impressive to women.
He lives in Texas with his daughter, who remains every resplendent and joyous part of his life.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 7, 2025
What did I just read?? I am so sad that I finished this book, but the good news is there will be more of them!
You know the feeling you get when you hear spoken word or song lyrics, and something so profound is said that your heart just stops? Well this is the author's entire writing style! He created a beautiful intricate world and captured it so well its as if he has actually been there and studied every detail.
Not only is the writing incredible, the story itself did not disappoint (not once!). This is a very rare find for me. It is full of action and adventure and the characters are to die for. The story is packed with insane gadgets, crazy creatures, biomedical modifications, variants of the word amalgamate (three times!), and sparkle juice that goes boom! There are even suicide booths!! It may seem like I just gave a lot away, but the beauty of this book is that I barely scratched the surface.
This is book is staying on my shelf wherever I go. (My literal one of course.)
You know the feeling you get when you hear spoken word or song lyrics, and something so profound is said that your heart just stops? Well this is the author's entire writing style! He created a beautiful intricate world and captured it so well its as if he has actually been there and studied every detail.
Not only is the writing incredible, the story itself did not disappoint (not once!). This is a very rare find for me. It is full of action and adventure and the characters are to die for. The story is packed with insane gadgets, crazy creatures, biomedical modifications, variants of the word amalgamate (three times!), and sparkle juice that goes boom! There are even suicide booths!! It may seem like I just gave a lot away, but the beauty of this book is that I barely scratched the surface.
This is book is staying on my shelf wherever I go. (My literal one of course.)
August 9, 2020
( Format : Audiobook )
"And the Lord said, Let there be dark."
A young girl at the lower end of the religious society's hierarchy, a cat believed extinct, a policeman doing what he believed was right, an underground in hiding and guards, weapons, strange monsters...
This is a refreshingly different, albeit unpleasant, world with fast paced action. Written to provide striking pictures in the mind of the reader, we follow Addie on her journey of discovery together with friends, and others, she meets on the way. The protagonists grow from paper and ink characters into real people as the story lrogresses.
No Mod is narrated by Eleanor Cauldil; her voice is very easy on the ear and she reads with close attention to the text, emotion seeping through the well paced and cadenced delivery. The different characters are also given defined voices: a good performance overall as she effortlessly carries the reader forward.
My thanks to the rights holder of No Mod, who, at my request freely gifted me with a complimentary copy via Audiobook Boom. The first in a series, I will be looking out for follow up stories: well written, frash, intriguinng, this is a futuristic science fiction world not to be missed.
"And the Lord said, Let there be dark."
A young girl at the lower end of the religious society's hierarchy, a cat believed extinct, a policeman doing what he believed was right, an underground in hiding and guards, weapons, strange monsters...
This is a refreshingly different, albeit unpleasant, world with fast paced action. Written to provide striking pictures in the mind of the reader, we follow Addie on her journey of discovery together with friends, and others, she meets on the way. The protagonists grow from paper and ink characters into real people as the story lrogresses.
No Mod is narrated by Eleanor Cauldil; her voice is very easy on the ear and she reads with close attention to the text, emotion seeping through the well paced and cadenced delivery. The different characters are also given defined voices: a good performance overall as she effortlessly carries the reader forward.
My thanks to the rights holder of No Mod, who, at my request freely gifted me with a complimentary copy via Audiobook Boom. The first in a series, I will be looking out for follow up stories: well written, frash, intriguinng, this is a futuristic science fiction world not to be missed.
November 10, 2020
Thank you to Voracious Readers for connecting me with the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
D Porterfield drops the reader into a dystopian city of Aberthene, ruled by religion and technology where it is seen as one’s duty to modify themselves to be of service. Addeleigh is an orphaned student who is considered a no-mod, too poor to afford self-improvement modifications, and is considered second class. Despite her status, Addie has carved out a little life for herself, cleaning suicide booths for money, studying under the Church’s strict tutelage, and curling up in her dorm with her rare mute-cat companion, dreaming of a better tomorrow.
In this fast paced adventure, Addie discovers not everything is as it seems when her friend tips her off that trouble is brewing, and religious Red Guards storm her dorm. She escapes and has a chance meeting with hardened cop Kel, who brings an injured Addie to an old friend. They set off beyond the concrete jungle of Aberthene, hunted for reasons beyond Addie’s knowledge.
I thoroughly enjoyed devouring this novel. You enter the gritty world at warp speed, and hit the ground running into an adventure to discover the secrets of a world ruled by technology.
In our real life climate where technological advancements are on the cusp of usable biometric augmentations, Porterfield inspects how culture could favour those who are wealthy enough to afford the best enhancements, and the implications of a world where technology lives in everyone. The characters are well crafted, though aside from the protagonist they are rather static, but this is a short novel that has a lot to unpack. I look forward to seeing more dynamic character arcs in the sequel, which I will definitely be reading!
D Porterfield drops the reader into a dystopian city of Aberthene, ruled by religion and technology where it is seen as one’s duty to modify themselves to be of service. Addeleigh is an orphaned student who is considered a no-mod, too poor to afford self-improvement modifications, and is considered second class. Despite her status, Addie has carved out a little life for herself, cleaning suicide booths for money, studying under the Church’s strict tutelage, and curling up in her dorm with her rare mute-cat companion, dreaming of a better tomorrow.
In this fast paced adventure, Addie discovers not everything is as it seems when her friend tips her off that trouble is brewing, and religious Red Guards storm her dorm. She escapes and has a chance meeting with hardened cop Kel, who brings an injured Addie to an old friend. They set off beyond the concrete jungle of Aberthene, hunted for reasons beyond Addie’s knowledge.
I thoroughly enjoyed devouring this novel. You enter the gritty world at warp speed, and hit the ground running into an adventure to discover the secrets of a world ruled by technology.
In our real life climate where technological advancements are on the cusp of usable biometric augmentations, Porterfield inspects how culture could favour those who are wealthy enough to afford the best enhancements, and the implications of a world where technology lives in everyone. The characters are well crafted, though aside from the protagonist they are rather static, but this is a short novel that has a lot to unpack. I look forward to seeing more dynamic character arcs in the sequel, which I will definitely be reading!
July 13, 2020
Wow! This book was really, really good and hooked me from pretty much the first page. I was already interested in the book and engaged by the characters, but the moment that I first knew I'd love the book is the line where Kel compares his coffee to his ex-wife. Hilarious and pithy.
The author wrote strong, complex characters, and manages to keep a fast pace of writing and a believable mystery. I also really liked how two of the characters stopped to ask for the third character's consent in a scene as well. Although there were characters with knowledge that Addie lacked, I found the justifications to maintain suspense fit well with the plot (unlike some books where it's clearly a delaying tactic).
I found the world building and history really interesting as well, and I look forward to learning more about how this world came to be, the technology, and some of the science experiments (like what led to mute cats). The author also turns a phrase really well.
Overall, I am so glad I read this book and look forward to the next one! I received a complimentary copy from the author.
The author wrote strong, complex characters, and manages to keep a fast pace of writing and a believable mystery. I also really liked how two of the characters stopped to ask for the third character's consent in a scene as well. Although there were characters with knowledge that Addie lacked, I found the justifications to maintain suspense fit well with the plot (unlike some books where it's clearly a delaying tactic).
I found the world building and history really interesting as well, and I look forward to learning more about how this world came to be, the technology, and some of the science experiments (like what led to mute cats). The author also turns a phrase really well.
Overall, I am so glad I read this book and look forward to the next one! I received a complimentary copy from the author.
July 16, 2020
*I received a free copy of this book from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review*
This book was so great I sat down and read it in one go. The characters were great, the world building was good with lots of weird technology and creatures that were were different enough to be fascinating but familiar enough to feel possible. The pacing was great and kept me interested from start to finish, I can’t wait to read what happens next.
This book was so great I sat down and read it in one go. The characters were great, the world building was good with lots of weird technology and creatures that were were different enough to be fascinating but familiar enough to feel possible. The pacing was great and kept me interested from start to finish, I can’t wait to read what happens next.
July 9, 2020
I got a complimentary copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only. Wow! What a great read. The writing style was simple, yet deep (I was truly amazed at the depth of the writing) and thoroughly enjoyable. The amount of times I stopped to capture a quote amazed me - much more than any book I've read in a while. I enjoyed the range of characters, the character introduction and development, and the mix of likable and unlikable characters. The book hooked me in from the first few pages and didn't lose my interest throughout. The book contained a few twists that kept things interesting and have me excited for the next book in the series. The book far exceeded my expectations after reading the blurb. I almost decided against requesting a copy of the book from the description, but something in it told me to give it a shot, and I'm glad I did. The only thing I didn't like was that a particular point of contention with the main character's credibility wasn't cleared up by the end, though I'm sure it will be addressed in the next book.
March 3, 2020
Derek Porterfield’s debut novel, the first book in his Mute-Cat Chronicles series begins with a rush and doesn’t let up. As soon as the action begins, there is little room to catch your breath as you follow Addie in a post-futuristic world where technology and the church are one faction.
I love the concept of this story, but i really enjoy the banter of the multiple characters. One thing Porterfield does really well? Heist scenes. Mr. Porterfield writes with an exigency and ferocity that reminds me of Chuck Hogan’s early works.
I’m looking forward to the next book in the series as I believe Derek Porterfield has a concept on his hands that can only get better as the world he creates expands.
I love the concept of this story, but i really enjoy the banter of the multiple characters. One thing Porterfield does really well? Heist scenes. Mr. Porterfield writes with an exigency and ferocity that reminds me of Chuck Hogan’s early works.
I’m looking forward to the next book in the series as I believe Derek Porterfield has a concept on his hands that can only get better as the world he creates expands.
March 28, 2020
This book is a fun thought provoking story that pulls the reader into the relationships between the characters through use of nicknames and casual conversation. The backstory weaves nicely into the plot giving the book a nice flow as it Investigated complex ideas such as mass following and poverty. The author did this in a creative way that highlights the natural tendencies of humans and their ability to be manipulated but also stand up for what’s right.
May 10, 2020
Received as an ARC copy, this is an honest review. This will stand as one of the most bone chilling, dystopian books I've ever read. It feels as if the author has stepped into the future and is writing what we'll face. I couldn't put it down and will haunted by its stark descriptions. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2020
Strong characters. Good writing. Creative story..
Downside— coming in at book one and can’t binge the entire story.... now we wait
Downside— coming in at book one and can’t binge the entire story.... now we wait
April 16, 2020
Not all books live up to their book blurb, but the synopsis for No- Mod did not oversell the contents.
I really enjoyed reading No-Mod (Book 1 of the Mute-Cat Chronicles). The detail of this world was meticulous, events, products, belief systems, etc were explained in such a way that they were believable, realistic and often frightening in their credibility. I especially liked the insightful way the church's history and influence were detailed and described. Derek Porterfield has a real understanding of human nature, their motivations and personality types. This is clearly illustrated by characters who are well rounded, flaws and all.
Addie is 'singled out as only human: a no-mod' the lowest in the social hierarchy that elevates those with biomedical modification. She's on the run escaping from unknown pursuers, running from the only home she's known to the unknown.
How can you find answers when you’re in fight or flight mode?
Addie's journey is in parallel to a group of thieves who last deal hasn't gone to plan, they too have had to leave town in a hurry. Eventually, their path collides, and we find out more about these resilient kids and their influence on Aberthene.
There is so much to like in this book - I am quite taken with this techno world. I was invested in this story and rooted for the good guys in battle, cheered them when victorious and commiserated in their setbacks. The pacing was excellent, it wasn’t relentless journeying or combat, rather intuitively interspersed with backstory, character development, and foreshadowing. Finally, the baddies were almost up there with icons such as Darth Vader and Lord Business, they really can astound you with their machinations - there is no limits on their ambitions.
Suffice to say, I have a compelling need to find out what happens to all the key players and can't wait for the next instalment of complicated dealings, new revelations, and confrontations.
My thanks to BookSirens and the author for a digital copy of this book in exchange for a candid review.
4 Stars - Really Liked It
Read more reviews on my blog
Blog | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
I really enjoyed reading No-Mod (Book 1 of the Mute-Cat Chronicles). The detail of this world was meticulous, events, products, belief systems, etc were explained in such a way that they were believable, realistic and often frightening in their credibility. I especially liked the insightful way the church's history and influence were detailed and described. Derek Porterfield has a real understanding of human nature, their motivations and personality types. This is clearly illustrated by characters who are well rounded, flaws and all.
Addie is 'singled out as only human: a no-mod' the lowest in the social hierarchy that elevates those with biomedical modification. She's on the run escaping from unknown pursuers, running from the only home she's known to the unknown.
How can you find answers when you’re in fight or flight mode?
Addie's journey is in parallel to a group of thieves who last deal hasn't gone to plan, they too have had to leave town in a hurry. Eventually, their path collides, and we find out more about these resilient kids and their influence on Aberthene.
There is so much to like in this book - I am quite taken with this techno world. I was invested in this story and rooted for the good guys in battle, cheered them when victorious and commiserated in their setbacks. The pacing was excellent, it wasn’t relentless journeying or combat, rather intuitively interspersed with backstory, character development, and foreshadowing. Finally, the baddies were almost up there with icons such as Darth Vader and Lord Business, they really can astound you with their machinations - there is no limits on their ambitions.
Suffice to say, I have a compelling need to find out what happens to all the key players and can't wait for the next instalment of complicated dealings, new revelations, and confrontations.
My thanks to BookSirens and the author for a digital copy of this book in exchange for a candid review.
4 Stars - Really Liked It
Read more reviews on my blog
Blog | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
January 9, 2022
((I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only))
I love me some dystopian novels! So this book was one I could definitely get into! I read in one sitting because I just HAD to know what was going to happen. There were a lot of things I liked about this book and others that brought out some questions that I feel didn't get fully explained or answered. (I.e. questions around Jen. Questions around the woman with etched words at her feet. And why T chose his destination for trying to keep Addy safe.) I'm hoping my questions get answered in the second book so fingers crossed !
I really liked the growth of Addeleigh, Kel, and Traves. After not having a family, this chosen family made me happy for Addy. You could see the care form for the trio.
Throughout the book I was so excited for the two groups to meet ! I kept waiting and waiting for it to happen. I like the when and how the author joined the two groups.
I liked the spot in-between the crevice that was like a new world with new dangers.
There were a lot of positives to this book that kept me hooked.
However, I love my world building. I love it being written in a way and so descriptive that I can immerse myself. I would have liked to have a little more. Also, a little more background on our Shane group, to let readers understand their unshakable bond and be more invested in them. They were funny and lovable and had all the dynamics there, just needed a little more connection.
Despite certain things, this book is one I would recommend to others in need of a new book or author. This book is fast paced and will keep you turning the pages!! I am looking forward to reading book 2 of the mute-cat chronicles!!! ❤❤
I love me some dystopian novels! So this book was one I could definitely get into! I read in one sitting because I just HAD to know what was going to happen. There were a lot of things I liked about this book and others that brought out some questions that I feel didn't get fully explained or answered. (I.e. questions around Jen. Questions around the woman with etched words at her feet. And why T chose his destination for trying to keep Addy safe.) I'm hoping my questions get answered in the second book so fingers crossed !
I really liked the growth of Addeleigh, Kel, and Traves. After not having a family, this chosen family made me happy for Addy. You could see the care form for the trio.
Throughout the book I was so excited for the two groups to meet ! I kept waiting and waiting for it to happen. I like the when and how the author joined the two groups.
I liked the spot in-between the crevice that was like a new world with new dangers.
There were a lot of positives to this book that kept me hooked.
However, I love my world building. I love it being written in a way and so descriptive that I can immerse myself. I would have liked to have a little more. Also, a little more background on our Shane group, to let readers understand their unshakable bond and be more invested in them. They were funny and lovable and had all the dynamics there, just needed a little more connection.
Despite certain things, this book is one I would recommend to others in need of a new book or author. This book is fast paced and will keep you turning the pages!! I am looking forward to reading book 2 of the mute-cat chronicles!!! ❤❤
October 30, 2021
Wow.
I have no words.
I completely devoured this book in about two days. From page one I was immediately hooked in the story, the characters and the world.
In ‘No-mod’ we follow Addie, a seventeen year old girl living with the church, studying and working to make a living. In this world everyone has some kind of modification, but Addie is a no-mod. Completely normal and not special in any way, Addie is confused and shocked when the Church’s police (known as the reds) track her down and attempt to grab her. After jumping from the third story of her church dorm to escape, Addie finds herself injured and in the care of two strangers who have taken it upon themselves to help her. But now Addie is running from the Church, and God.
This story was so… refreshing! Nearly every chapter was filled with an action sequence and new information about the world and characters, which had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Not to mention the plot twists that had me gasping out loud.
The characters and their dynamics were also well written, and each character was so unique that I came to care for them all. I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Cam and Jesse.
But my favourite part was the world building! There have been cult-like church books, and there have been futuristic cyberpunk books. Never before has there been a book that mashed the two together and somehow made it actually… work?! This world was so intriguing, unique and new. It was a breath of fresh air and honestly so, incredibly, enjoyable to read.
This book is a MUST READ for fans of Sci-fi, dystopian and young adult!!!
I have no words.
I completely devoured this book in about two days. From page one I was immediately hooked in the story, the characters and the world.
In ‘No-mod’ we follow Addie, a seventeen year old girl living with the church, studying and working to make a living. In this world everyone has some kind of modification, but Addie is a no-mod. Completely normal and not special in any way, Addie is confused and shocked when the Church’s police (known as the reds) track her down and attempt to grab her. After jumping from the third story of her church dorm to escape, Addie finds herself injured and in the care of two strangers who have taken it upon themselves to help her. But now Addie is running from the Church, and God.
This story was so… refreshing! Nearly every chapter was filled with an action sequence and new information about the world and characters, which had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Not to mention the plot twists that had me gasping out loud.
The characters and their dynamics were also well written, and each character was so unique that I came to care for them all. I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Cam and Jesse.
But my favourite part was the world building! There have been cult-like church books, and there have been futuristic cyberpunk books. Never before has there been a book that mashed the two together and somehow made it actually… work?! This world was so intriguing, unique and new. It was a breath of fresh air and honestly so, incredibly, enjoyable to read.
This book is a MUST READ for fans of Sci-fi, dystopian and young adult!!!
April 29, 2021
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review, and it caught me from the begining Addeleigh that we call Addie was a very likeable character and her first scene she is cleaning a suicide booth, gruesome? yes, and to make it worse we learn that only people that belong to the church in a way or another, clean this kind of place... really? that was so messed up, her story only really begins when a friend of her send her a message to get out of her doorm and meet her (remembering that she is in a doorm connected to the church and her friend just tell her to get out, and i dont really remenber if the friend explained why in the whole book, maybe in the next one) and this is the start of her "dying" to the church and getting to know the world and some of their dangers.. i usually need a couple of days to a week to read one book, but this one caught in a way that i read it in a morning, so its not really big, and the story is catchy, Derek Porterfield got me entangle in his writting and anxious for the safety of his characters in a really dystopic world i liked it, now i just need more.
February 25, 2020
Well. I didn't even know I needed a book about cybernetically enhanced humans. But not only did I need it, but it's now my FAVORITE.
Personally, I love stories where the population has a standard "improvement" that makes them better than your average human. Jim Butcher's Codex Alera series was originally my favorite, with a protagonist who's specialness comes from a lack of special powers that everyone else has access to.
No-mod is exactly that, but in a rather realistic future that's not too far around the corner.
It's great to see a mortal running around in such a beautifully crafted world, and you will be doing yourself a disservice if you pass this story up.
Derek Porterfield is definitely an author you want to be watching. Make this your next read. And your friends next read. Maybe not your mom's, she'd probably not approve. But everyone else who needs a cerebral sci-fi thriller, this book should be given to them ASAP.
Personally, I love stories where the population has a standard "improvement" that makes them better than your average human. Jim Butcher's Codex Alera series was originally my favorite, with a protagonist who's specialness comes from a lack of special powers that everyone else has access to.
No-mod is exactly that, but in a rather realistic future that's not too far around the corner.
It's great to see a mortal running around in such a beautifully crafted world, and you will be doing yourself a disservice if you pass this story up.
Derek Porterfield is definitely an author you want to be watching. Make this your next read. And your friends next read. Maybe not your mom's, she'd probably not approve. But everyone else who needs a cerebral sci-fi thriller, this book should be given to them ASAP.
October 1, 2020
I received a free copy of this book via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, easy to picture this world and invest in the characters. Fast paced action but a good backstory to support it. Love the background to the church formation, so true to life throughout the ages.
Not many series hook me enough to want to read book two but I might just have found one! 🙂
A thoroughly enjoyable read, easy to picture this world and invest in the characters. Fast paced action but a good backstory to support it. Love the background to the church formation, so true to life throughout the ages.
Not many series hook me enough to want to read book two but I might just have found one! 🙂
January 21, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only, and from the first page, I was hooked.
Beautiful descriptions made me feel like I was part of the action, scenes that I have no doubt will stay with me for a very long time, characters whose personalities very quickly made themselves at home in my soul, and a story I am desperate to read more of.
I truly loved this book.
Beautiful descriptions made me feel like I was part of the action, scenes that I have no doubt will stay with me for a very long time, characters whose personalities very quickly made themselves at home in my soul, and a story I am desperate to read more of.
I truly loved this book.
December 18, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book is very different to say the least, I had to adjust to this kind of story telling because it is in a kind of apocalyptical - futuristic environment.
Addie is the only no-mod human being in her district, which is frowned upon. The Earth is overrun by buildings and people are getting artificial enhancements that is embedded in society. Addie's parents died when she was young and she found shelter in a religious organization. But after a hard work at the suicide booths she gets a frantic message from her best friend to get out of there. She jumped out of the window where she meets the cop Kel, who brings her to his best friend Travis. Here she learns that she has state of the art tech in her body, and a wild adventure ensues.
In the mean time Shane and his crew are stealing mod technology for who ever pays, but that didn't go well and they travel the same directions Addie is heading. But betrayal is coming from someone unlikely, will Addie be able to outrun her pursuers.
I found the story very compelling even though it wasn't my style, but I must say I kept on reading. The environment the story plays in is very apocalyptic and futuristic style. Even nature is not all what it seems because of experiments by the government. It changed my view and looking forward how this is going to play out. Because it seems in this story, even the tiniest mistake or assumption will eventually come back.
The book is very different to say the least, I had to adjust to this kind of story telling because it is in a kind of apocalyptical - futuristic environment.
Addie is the only no-mod human being in her district, which is frowned upon. The Earth is overrun by buildings and people are getting artificial enhancements that is embedded in society. Addie's parents died when she was young and she found shelter in a religious organization. But after a hard work at the suicide booths she gets a frantic message from her best friend to get out of there. She jumped out of the window where she meets the cop Kel, who brings her to his best friend Travis. Here she learns that she has state of the art tech in her body, and a wild adventure ensues.
In the mean time Shane and his crew are stealing mod technology for who ever pays, but that didn't go well and they travel the same directions Addie is heading. But betrayal is coming from someone unlikely, will Addie be able to outrun her pursuers.
I found the story very compelling even though it wasn't my style, but I must say I kept on reading. The environment the story plays in is very apocalyptic and futuristic style. Even nature is not all what it seems because of experiments by the government. It changed my view and looking forward how this is going to play out. Because it seems in this story, even the tiniest mistake or assumption will eventually come back.
January 5, 2021
*This book was given to me by the author at my request, and I provided this voluntary, unbiased review.*
3.9/5
This was a fun and very fast paced ride into a techno-based future where people are are enhanced with bio and techno mods. The concept is interesting, albeit a familiar one - but fresh and unique enough to enjoy. Adding in the religious factors makes for an even deeper dive into the ideas of technology vs. religion. The characters are interesting, and I especially love the MC and her mute-cat. I thoroughly enjoyed this and hope to see more in the mute-cat chronicles! My only con for the book is that it was really short - we want more!
3.9/5
This was a fun and very fast paced ride into a techno-based future where people are are enhanced with bio and techno mods. The concept is interesting, albeit a familiar one - but fresh and unique enough to enjoy. Adding in the religious factors makes for an even deeper dive into the ideas of technology vs. religion. The characters are interesting, and I especially love the MC and her mute-cat. I thoroughly enjoyed this and hope to see more in the mute-cat chronicles! My only con for the book is that it was really short - we want more!
September 22, 2020
I loved this book! It’s not something I normally would read, however, it reminded me a little of a Divergent type book but with more twists. You won’t want to put it down! I’m excited for the second one!
January 15, 2021
Imagine living in a world where everyone has modifications done to their body that make them faster, smarter, see better, see further, heal broken bones all by themselves. Things that make you more magical machine than human. And you are one of the poor who cannot afford modifications. Then imagine you find out everything you thought you knew about yourself is a lie. Meet Addie...
January 8, 2021
This book has amazing world building. It’s gritty and innocent at the same time. The characters are all wonderful. A great dystopian read, this book sets the stage for a fantastic clash to come. I loved it! I will 100% be seeking out further adventures of Addeleigh and co.
I received a copy of this through Voracious Readers Only.
I received a copy of this through Voracious Readers Only.
January 15, 2021
I loved this book and will definitely be getting the rest of the series. Had me hooked from the first page, couldn't put it down and finished it in one session. Definitely makes you think.
October 16, 2021
Kept me hooked from the very first page. I loved the characters and the imagery was fantastic. The story kept me guessing the whole time and I didn't want it to end.
I received a copy of this book via Voracious Readers and am leaving a voluntary review.
I received a copy of this book via Voracious Readers and am leaving a voluntary review.
August 16, 2020
No-Mod certainly starts out with an interesting world and lost of action. Addie, an orphan with no bionic modifications in a world where they are incredibly common, works for the Church cleaning suicide booths. Then, one night, she gets a text from on of her friends and flees her dormitory, which starts her on an adventure with quite a few characters picked up along the way.
First, what does the author do right? Like I said, the world is certainly interesting, with lots of creativity (such as Mute-Cats, who can create a circle of silence around themselves). There is plenty of action to keep the story moving and lots of interesting characters along the way.
Unfortunately, none of the potential of this book is fulfilled. The simplest explanation is that the author simply didn't spend enough time to flesh out the world, characters, or even the plot. Everything is rushed, which leads to flat characters, plot holes, and a lack of tension. There is so much going on, but we never spend enough time on it to get emotionally involved. For instance, the final action sequence lasts all of 10 pages. That's simply not enough time for the reader to feel like the characters are in danger before it's over. We also jump from one plot point to another, to the point where I would have to go back and reread sections because I was so confused as to what was going on.
TL;DR: This is a 220 page book that would have benefitted from being twice the length so characters, the world, and the plot could be better fleshed out.
I received a complimentary copy from Voracious Readers in exchange for this review.
First, what does the author do right? Like I said, the world is certainly interesting, with lots of creativity (such as Mute-Cats, who can create a circle of silence around themselves). There is plenty of action to keep the story moving and lots of interesting characters along the way.
Unfortunately, none of the potential of this book is fulfilled. The simplest explanation is that the author simply didn't spend enough time to flesh out the world, characters, or even the plot. Everything is rushed, which leads to flat characters, plot holes, and a lack of tension. There is so much going on, but we never spend enough time on it to get emotionally involved. For instance, the final action sequence lasts all of 10 pages. That's simply not enough time for the reader to feel like the characters are in danger before it's over. We also jump from one plot point to another, to the point where I would have to go back and reread sections because I was so confused as to what was going on.
TL;DR: This is a 220 page book that would have benefitted from being twice the length so characters, the world, and the plot could be better fleshed out.
I received a complimentary copy from Voracious Readers in exchange for this review.
August 13, 2020
Fantastic story with characters you bond to. Loved the creativeness of this book, couldn’t tell what would happen next. Definitely a great read to have in your library.
April 18, 2022
This science fiction novel takes place in a world where human modifications via technology are standard (though expensive) and we follow Addeleigh (Addie). Addie worked cleaning 'suicide booths' as she lived in the Religious building, a religion focused on human enhancement when she suddenly becomes thrust into a complicated (and confusing) situation, having to run and not knowing who to trust.
This book was very quick to read and fast-paced, with likeable characters and action in just the right quantities. There were quite a few new characters introduced at once which took me a second to familiarise myself with and it did confuse me slightly, but the second I wrapped my head around the different characters I really felt the story moved so much quicker.
Scifi books often get too 'clunky' or overly explanative, but this book didn't do that at all (which made my reading experience a lot better). Though written in third-person, I didn't feel like the book was 'talking at me' which is also easy to fall into. It was really easy to read and I found I understood what was happening ... though I am still unsure what a mute-cat is !!
I was very glad to see the second book is already out because I am looking forward to delving back into the world and following Addie (and her friends) as things become explained - a lot of loose ends to take forward and I feel like the story lends itself really well to a series.
I received a complimentary ARC through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review, which I leave voluntarily.
This book was very quick to read and fast-paced, with likeable characters and action in just the right quantities. There were quite a few new characters introduced at once which took me a second to familiarise myself with and it did confuse me slightly, but the second I wrapped my head around the different characters I really felt the story moved so much quicker.
Scifi books often get too 'clunky' or overly explanative, but this book didn't do that at all (which made my reading experience a lot better). Though written in third-person, I didn't feel like the book was 'talking at me' which is also easy to fall into. It was really easy to read and I found I understood what was happening ... though I am still unsure what a mute-cat is !!
I was very glad to see the second book is already out because I am looking forward to delving back into the world and following Addie (and her friends) as things become explained - a lot of loose ends to take forward and I feel like the story lends itself really well to a series.
I received a complimentary ARC through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review, which I leave voluntarily.
December 24, 2022
I received a free copy for an honest review.
It sounded like something I couldn't wait to read, but it lacks in descriptive writing and feels rushed. For example, I'd be reading about an area, and would have to read it again trying to visualise the vague imagery. There was also a confusing section in one early paragraph involving time. If I recall correctly, a few days had passed by since an event, but one of the characters comments that it happened the previous night. With the added confusion about what time of the day it even was.
Some characters are likeable, but the rest aren't particularly appealing. I have cringed a little at some of the unnatural dialogue between the young group of friends.
I feel like there is wasted potential due to the rushed feel. The mute-cat is potentially powerful, but isn't used in more creative ways. We hurry from one place to another, with little imagery, something happens, and it's immediately put behind them. I think this book deserved more time and effort put into it to have fixed the gaping plot holes, expand upon areas, give characters some development, and make it more immersive.
I am interested in reading more though, and will likely pick up the next one if it's cheap enough.
It sounded like something I couldn't wait to read, but it lacks in descriptive writing and feels rushed. For example, I'd be reading about an area, and would have to read it again trying to visualise the vague imagery. There was also a confusing section in one early paragraph involving time. If I recall correctly, a few days had passed by since an event, but one of the characters comments that it happened the previous night. With the added confusion about what time of the day it even was.
Some characters are likeable, but the rest aren't particularly appealing. I have cringed a little at some of the unnatural dialogue between the young group of friends.
I feel like there is wasted potential due to the rushed feel. The mute-cat is potentially powerful, but isn't used in more creative ways. We hurry from one place to another, with little imagery, something happens, and it's immediately put behind them. I think this book deserved more time and effort put into it to have fixed the gaping plot holes, expand upon areas, give characters some development, and make it more immersive.
I am interested in reading more though, and will likely pick up the next one if it's cheap enough.
July 30, 2021
This book follows Addie, a non moded person in the near future where mods have taken over. After she runs away from the church fir unknown reasons, she relapses that the church will stop at nothing to find her, with no idea why.
The character's were a bit lacklustre. I didn't feel anything other than slight annoyance at everyone especially Addie. That may be amplified by the fact that I have a thing against main characters but really I was just a it bored by everyone and the decisions that Addie made while she was the naive girl and whatever just seemed a bit too much.
The description and setting though were fantastic. The promised of the whole world was so interesting especially since this is a premise that has been told before. I am very impressed with the deta among certain things.
Overall, I personally would not recommend it. I just think that personally it wasn't to my taste but I see why people like it.
The character's were a bit lacklustre. I didn't feel anything other than slight annoyance at everyone especially Addie. That may be amplified by the fact that I have a thing against main characters but really I was just a it bored by everyone and the decisions that Addie made while she was the naive girl and whatever just seemed a bit too much.
The description and setting though were fantastic. The promised of the whole world was so interesting especially since this is a premise that has been told before. I am very impressed with the deta among certain things.
Overall, I personally would not recommend it. I just think that personally it wasn't to my taste but I see why people like it.
July 31, 2022
I received a copy of this book from Voracious Readers.
I’m not really a cat person but in this instance I would love to have a mute-cat like Bruce. He doesn’t feature a great deal in this book and I’m hoping that he will do more in the next one.
He has attached himself (cats don’t belong to humans, they tolerate us) to Addeleigh Simmons. Addeleigh lives in a religious building and spends her days cleaning out suicide booths and her evenings studying.
Addie has always believed that she is a no-mod and therefore worthless to society. This turns out to be about as far from the truth as it is possible to get.
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author but I’m looking forward to reading more of his work, especially book 2 in this series.
He writes a captivating tale that pulls his reader in to want to know more and to keep reading.
His descriptions of characters and places are clear and paint vivid pictures in the mind of the reader.
I’m not really a cat person but in this instance I would love to have a mute-cat like Bruce. He doesn’t feature a great deal in this book and I’m hoping that he will do more in the next one.
He has attached himself (cats don’t belong to humans, they tolerate us) to Addeleigh Simmons. Addeleigh lives in a religious building and spends her days cleaning out suicide booths and her evenings studying.
Addie has always believed that she is a no-mod and therefore worthless to society. This turns out to be about as far from the truth as it is possible to get.
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author but I’m looking forward to reading more of his work, especially book 2 in this series.
He writes a captivating tale that pulls his reader in to want to know more and to keep reading.
His descriptions of characters and places are clear and paint vivid pictures in the mind of the reader.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews