Coup de Grâce

by Paul L. Centeno

The world has changed. Gone are the old gods. Nature withers and dies beneath the growing bane of machines and industry. Desperate to prevent their world from dying, citizens turn to science and sprawling cities of steam ruled by the Imperium. Kaimo de Morté has never known another life. He is an optometrist by trade but too poor to open an optical boutique. Forced to work in the mines, Kaimo has no idea how his life is about to change. A chance encounter with insurgents thrusts him into a battle for the very future of mankind. One he is ill prepared to fight. Kaimo uncovers hidden truths, forms alliances stretching to the highest halls of power, and becomes the catalyst for either saving the world or watching it end.

Genres: Audiobook, Steampunk, Dystopia

336 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 2, 2022

About the author

Paul L. Centeno is a Puerto Rican author from the Bronx. He is an award-winning author and finalist for the 2022 Killer Nashville Claymore Award. Born and raised in New York City, he studied at Herbert H. Lehman College where he earned a BA in Philosophy and Creative Writing. After graduation, he worked with Gabriel Packard, Associate Director of the Creative Writing MFA Program at Hunter College, to improve his craft.

His fantasy novel, The Vagrant Chronicle, was critically acclaimed in Writer’s Digest Annual Indie Book Awards. Kirkus Reviews stated, “Centeno yearns to create something completely new, and if we immerse ourselves in his cosmos, we will be richly rewarded.” He recently won awards from Writers of the Future for his short stories, Steamwalker and Celestial Heights. In 2024 his latest novel Tabula Rasa was awarded first place for best Fantasy by BIBA.

Centeno lives in Florida and is currently working on his 11th novel.

Reviews

[Montzalee Wittmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coup de Grace
By Paul L. Centeno

This is an audio version of the book. The narration was terrific! Its a steampunk, science fiction but it also has fantasy in it! Um, my favorite!
The guy of our story is a Optometrist, but hasn't been to the University yet. He ends up saving a gal from being used for her power in her blood. The Aether is in her blood and in the Stones that have been scattered. The bad guy is collecting stones and the girl. Our Optometrist is not going to let that happen, he hopes!

It's a wild, crazy ride across this world by all sorts of means and they are constantly followed. Beaten, betrayed, saved, married, more pain, and lots of twists as the travelers go. They meet unusual characters and some stay with them. My favorite, a mechanical assistant named Bartholomew had emotions like a person.

There is a lot of suspense, lots of action, humor scattered about, great characters, wonderful world building, and good dialogue. The ending was a happy ending so there was that! I was just a little confused about the time travel thing so I gave it a 4 star instead of a five. I also thought it could be condensed some.

I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this great book!

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Automatons, floating castles, airships, ether, a powerful shattered stone, even a chainsaw sword. This epic fantasy was reminiscent of the final fantasy stories that drew me in when I was younger.

In a brown world where civilization is based on science and machinery and steam powered cities run by the imperium litter the surface lives Kiamo De Grâce; a poor optometrist who labors in the mines hoping to one-day fulfill his dreams of becoming a "real" doctor. Kiamo is a humanitarian, wanting to help people and not get caught up in the civil unrest around him. But, when an insurgent attack on the mine forces him to seek refuge on a nearby train, what he discovers onboard turns his average life upside down, setting a quest into motion, originally to save the girl and ultimately to save the world.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Centeno creates a lush and wild world in “Coup de Grâce”! Readers dive right into rich world building as they are introduced to Kaimo.

Read full review in the 2023 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Online Eccentric Librarian · Rating 3 out of 5]

More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/

This ticks a lot of the boxes that draw people to the steampunk genre: automatons, gears, pseudo-Victorian setting, airships, etc. And while most steampunk stories are set in fin de siècle England/France or Wild West America, this one takes place on a different world altogether (one with multiple moons and suns). The story is enjoyable enough though I am not a fan of the choppy writing style. But there is plenty of action, a painfully earnest main character, his beautiful and spirited love interest, several professors, a requisite clock tower or two, and a bit of time travel thrown in. Note: I listened to the audio version and had several issues with it that likely inhibited my enjoyment of the novel.

Story: 19 year old Kaimo dreams of working as an ophthalmologist but instead finds himself in the mines due to the family's cash-strapped situation. But a chance encounter with a train-hijacking gone wrong suddenly propels him into the middle of a war and against a nemesis who is almost supernatural in his abilities. Can Kaimo save the world (and the girl)?

This is the type of book where you would expect to hear booing at the villain as he twists his moustache and sprouts his evil plans (while sounding suitably superior) and cheers each time the young protagonist hero saves the day. As such, this is much more in the styles of the Perils of Penelope rather than Jules Verne. That isn't to say the author doesn't take the milieu seriously; rather that the superficial storytelling is a quality of the narrative. It didn't work for me but perhaps others will find it engaging.

At times, it was hard to get into the story due to how it was written. The chapters are broken down into parts rather than breaks - taking away much needed segues that would have smoothed the transitions and provided a less choppy flow. In the same way, there are very noticeable jumps in character development so that relationships seem out of the blue/sudden. E.g., one moment the hero and heroine are fighting off bad guys, and the next scene they are suddenly declaring their love and promptly getting married. There is no organic growth and so we get very little in the way of depth or resonance with any of the characters or storylines. It's pretty much good guys, bad guys, battles - and the bad guys get their comeuppances (e.g., if you betray the hero, you can expect in the next part that that guy will be betrayed himself).

The audio book was very overproduced - the first time I've been really frustrated with too much being done to an audio narration. There are random sound effects that come out of nowhere - don't be wearing headphones on a quiet night or you'll lose a few years of your life in startlement when suddenly there is a bomb explosion going off. I had issues with that several times with my ear buds and it was incredibly annoying. As well, every chapter break has a long musical intro and outro - creating pointless interruptions in the narrative and honestly wasting the reader's time. They do not contribute to the story and some are puzzlingly 'off'. Honestly, music should probably be kept to the beginning and end of the book only for that reason - not 5-7 times each chapter.

The narration was fine. This is a British English flavor and I did not have issues distinguishing the various characters. With all the overproduction of music, it was surprising each time the narrator downplayed yells, screams, shouts - it is a straightforward read that really could have used a lot more flair and overacting to match the production (and make the story more interesting). I feel like this is a book that could have been fun but instead tried too hard to be 'serious'.

In all, it wasn't a bad book and heaven knows it is hard enough to find a good steampunk story any more. I prefer my stories to have more depth and character building - or at least really go over-the-top and just have fun. This fit somewhere between the both and made for a less engaging read as a result. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.

[Rox Burkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

In ‘Coup De Grâce,’ an inventive amalgamation of fantasy, science fiction, and steampunk by Paul L. Centeno, listeners follow the story of Kaimo de Morte as he undergoes dramatic life changes to his body, mind, and heart. Kaimo is an optometrist with extensive knowledge who wishes to study to become an Ophthalmologist. The loveable hero is filled with determination to reach his goals. He is forced to work in the mines to survive and possesses a robust set of honor-bound values. He ekes out a living working in the mines, yet uncovers a sinister plan and bears witness to multiple horrific crimes he cannot ignore.

Paul Centeno builds an exciting world containing steam-powered cities, automatons, incredible mechanical gadgets like the chainsaw sword, and a shattered gemstone that contains magical powers. When Kaimo discovers an imprisoned girl on a train, he decides to help and sets off on an epic journey that fans of quests won’t want to miss. The travel brings to life the people, creatures, and lives of those inhabiting this fascinating planet with three suns. Our pair of survivors are followed, beaten, betrayed, and presented with obstacles that test their tenacity: Bartholomew, the automaton with fun, unique words and interactions with his human friends.

The vivid world-building is believable as each layer is added to the perfect foundation. It's a wild, crazy ride across this world by all sorts of means, and our couple is constantly followed, beaten, betrayed, saved, and more. There are many twists as the travelers seek the source of the gemstone. They meet unusual characters. My favorite is the mechanical automaton assistant, Bartholomew, who possesses emotions like a person.

Two outstanding voices, Rob Jones and Courtney Holly, bring this wild world to life in the audio version. Each character matches the images painted by the author. The narration tempo keeps a perfect pace with the temps as the drama escalates. The delightful music and sound effects provide a remarkable experience in this flawless audio rendition.

Fans of science fiction with a side of steampunk will live within this captivating world of a fabulous industrial-age adventure of ‘Coup De Grâce.’ Snappy dialogue with touches of well-timed humor balances the dramatic challenges Kaimo faces in the changes and phases of his life. The believable storyline is structured by descriptive words that build this fascinating tale of adventure and strife to an unexpected, outstanding, nail-biting conclusion. Well done, Paul L Centeno, with the brilliant third dimension of Rob Jones and Courtney Holly.

[Sav · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had all the hallmarks of a classic steampunk tale—airships, automatons, gears, and a pseudo-Victorian setting. Unlike most stories in the genre, it takes place in an entirely different world, complete with multiple moons and suns. While that premise was intriguing, the execution fell flat.

The plot follows 19-year-old Kaimo, who dreams of becoming an ophthalmologist but is forced to work in the mines due to his family's financial struggles. A botched train heist unexpectedly throws him into the middle of a war, pitting him against a seemingly unstoppable nemesis. From there, the story unfolds in a predictable manner: Kaimo stumbles into danger, miraculously survives, and the villain remains menacing in a one-dimensional, moustache-twirling way.

The biggest issue is the lack of depth. The characters are more archetypes than fully developed individuals. Kaimo is the earnest young hero, his love interest is conventionally beautiful and headstrong, and the antagonist is evil for the sake of being evil. Relationships form out of nowhere—one moment the protagonists are fighting side by side, and the next, they are declaring undying love and getting married with no buildup. Emotional weight is nonexistent, and the character development is so rushed that nothing truly resonates.

The writing itself is another hurdle. The structure feels choppy, with abrupt scene transitions that prevent the story from flowing naturally. Instead of allowing tension to build or relationships to develop organically, the book jumps from one action set piece to another. It’s as if the narrative is more concerned with spectacle than substance.

The audiobook experience only made matters worse. Overproduced to a fault, it was filled with unnecessary sound effects—random explosions, loud clashes, and intrusive background music that broke immersion rather than enhancing it. Chapter breaks were padded with long, disruptive musical interludes, dragging out the experience without adding anything meaningful. The narrator, while competent, read in a straightforward manner that didn’t match the over-the-top production, making the entire performance feel disjointed.

While I appreciate the attempt at creating a unique steampunk world, the book ultimately lacks the storytelling finesse to make it truly engaging. It’s neither deep enough to be thought-provoking nor fun enough to embrace its pulpy nature. A promising premise, wasted on a shallow execution. That's why I'm giving it 1.5 ⭐.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy!

[Moná · Rating 4 out of 5]

Could one woman's blood be the lost key to becoming a celestial being? It seems there is always something that someone feels is worth the risk everything to have in their possession.

In "Coup De Grace," author Paul Centeno introduces Kaimo de Morté, the son of Gabriel Morte, a well-respected war hero. Kaimo is a miner by day with dreams of enrolling in medical school and studying to become an ophthalmologist. Of course, mining pay would take a very long time to afford that dream, but he's determined to achieve it. An unexpected event happened in the mines, what was thought of as an explosion ended up being an attack taking some miners' lives. At first glance, Kaimo and some of the other miners thought it was a sign of war, but it ended up being insurgents causing havoc in the midst of their search. There was an injured and defenseless woman that Kaimo rescued and requested his father to bring her to their home for protection. Zylpha Bess Wrayburn, a wanted villiager woman by Xelvok Vo Cazar, the Grand Marshal of the Imperium, because he believes her blood contains aether, a mythical power of a forgotten dynasty. Zylpha believes it to be true, as she feels something is different about her but unable to figure it out. What originally began as an ordinary mining day, turned out to be one of the worse and confusing days of Kaimo's life. With Lord Cazar being adament on finding Zylpha, and killing anyone in his path, Gabriel ended up on the receiving end of that fate, when asked where she was and responded with an "I don't know." Losing his father, Kaimo was more than determined to not only keep Zylpha safe, but seek vengence for his father's wrongful death. Zylpha, too, wants vengence against Lord Cazar for killing her people and destroying her village. Both Kaimo and Zylpha are set on a mission to escape Zykard because the hunt for Zylpha will be never-ending and all the lives that would be lost in the process, they couldn't bear it.

This story is an interesting one as when individuals cross paths, there's an unknown reason for why they met. An adventure unlike any other can be had when reading this book because the excitement and various emotions felt makes it a rewarding reading experience. I have read a few books by this author and Paul has written some of the finest art that reels readers into the experience of his characters through fine details and descriptions. I highly recommend everyone seeking a great book to consider giving this one a try.

[Sarah Nantais · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world has changed and all that which made our planet blue and green and beautiful is withering away into a brown nothingness. In this steam-punk science fiction story we meet our protagonist Kamio de Morté, a poor optometrist by trade. In Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno we are plunged into this strange alternate reality where machines are suppressing our natural bounty in favour of a cold and metallic future. Forced to work as a miner it seems that Kamio’s life is an uneventful march through life. However, that is all about to change as Kamio finds himself in a situation he never thought he’d encounter: a situation where is made to choose a path he never once dreamed for himself.
Centeno is skilled in his writing. The story is engaging from the beginning and the way he crafts the world of this book is well done. There is action, drama and a story below the surface that builds up until bursting in the end. Often times in science fiction books it can be difficult to just enjoy the story as you spend so much time simply trying to understand the concept of the world. Centeno does not drown readers in potentially dry explanations of why the world is the way it is. He dives right into the story and brings you along before you even know it.
It is easy to say that this book is highly enjoyable. No character seems out of place, no tidbit of knowledge seems unnecessary. We are not bystanders in this tale: we are brought in and walk alongside Kamio as he discovers friends, creates his own adventure and learns about himself at a fundamental level. The world is changing and Kamio learns that you must adapt. He may have had a specific dream when the book began, however life has a funny way of changing your expectations whenever it feels.
If you are looking for an action-packed tale with all the delightful elements of a science fiction story, then you must pick up a copy of Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno. This is not a science-fiction story that will drown you in the teeny tiny intrinsic details that make you feel as though you need a Ph.D. to enjoy it. This is a story of man faced with a seemingly incomprehensible choice and what it does to his life. Pick up this book for the thrill, the adventure and the excitement.

[Mary Maciejewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup De Grace, by Paul Centeno, is an adrenaline-packed, steampunk science fiction story. Centeno creates spectacular tension from the opening lines as Kaimo de Morte watches nature diminish and die as machinery and industry grow and prosper. Tension builds as Kaimo witnesses an “unnatural phenomenon” occurring in the fictional town of Zykard. Kaimo’s way of life is challenged as he struggles to maintain it while constantly facing impending dangers. Centeno sets Kaimo to be forced to deal with a conflict he is not ready to undertake. This shows, not tells, of Kaimo’s inner strength and struggles.

Kaimo has never known a life different from the one he is experiencing, until now. He has lived and worked in a grimy stagnant town called Icdarus, cradled in the mountains of Quradale, an optometrist too poor to own his own optical establishment. Instead, he lives his life working in the mines, unaware of how his life is about to change. Kaimo encounters insurgents who force him into a fight, threatening the future of the world. And Kaimo is not prepared for this crusade. However, through his battles, he finds himself discovering secret truths. Over time, Kaimo forms alliances spanning the most authoritative powers, and discovers he has become a catalyst for either saving the newly threatened world or giving up and watching the world be destroyed.

The author’s style of writing is intriguing. He begins with two opposing factors. Frightening tension and a sympathetic character. A conflict that catches the reader's attention. He maintains this attention to the story as the reader comes to know Kaimo, and learns of the disagreeable task he must undertake.

Coup De Grace, by Paul Centeno, rightly deserves 5 out of 5 stars for cleverly showing how one new disruption to the world can, in a domino effect, unravel its entire balance. I would recommend this book to everyone.

[Mayra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul L. Centeno is an award-winning fantasy and science-fiction author, and this piece clearly shows why. Coup de Grace by Paul Centeneo is a science fiction novel that combines fantasy to create an enthralling Belle Époque story with action and adventure. It’s set in a world that has no more natural reserves and is functioning in post-apocalyptic mode. Each person in this world is clearly surviving and in a state of hypervigilance. People are more involved in science more than ever, as it is the only way to survive. The main character, Kiamo, is initially naive,as an optometrist, but things are about to change for him very soon, as he joins a group with a mission on saving the world.

I enjoyed the plot very much, but as I kept on reading, I paid more and more attention to Kiamo’s growth. The author does a fantastic job in developing the characters, and their growth throughout the book. At the very beginning,Kaimo no idea about anything, until he learns that he must fight and, most important, survive while facing insurgents. There are a few unexpected twists in the plot, which gives the narrative a nice turn. I have to admit that the aspect of the novel that I liked the most was the fact that it consists mainly of dialogues and conversations. In my opinion, this is the best way to get to know the characters.

From my point of view, the author’s work of showing what a post-apocalyptic world would be is outstanding. Imagery is present all along the story, and it is amazing, creating vibrant visuals for the reader. I could feel part of each scene and was able to picture each moment in my mind. Along with the emotions I have experienced while reading, I cannot stop thinking about what may happen in the future.

The picture that this author has placed in my mind with this novel will stay with me for a long time. Coup de Grace by Paul Centeneo is a fantastic read, and a worthwhile read. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars, and highly recommend it.

[Ariane Bilodeau (bibi.reads.writes) · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75⭐ rounded up to 3. I’ve read awesome reviews, but this simply wasn’t for me. If you like fast-paced adventure stories, dystopian settings with steampunk vibes, dual narration, sound effects and music, nerdy protagonists and endearing automatons, you’ll probably like this audiobook.

Note: I received an audio ARC from NetGalley in exchange for honest feedback.

Tropes to expect: opposites attract, one of a kind, damsel in distress, back-from-the-dead cyborg, alternate universe, mechanical monstrosities, invisible empire.

❤️ Relatable, flawed MMC
❤️ Fast pace with lots of twists and turns
❤️ Male voice actor performance
❤️ Loveable side characters (especially Bart)
❤️ Light humour
❌ Sudden jumps (in plot progression, character/relationship development, etc.)
❌ Confusing time travel plotline
❌ Over-the-top sound effects
❌ Dull female voice actor performance
❌ Use of French words

Plot: I liked how fast paced and creative the story was, with tons of twists and turns. However, there was a confusing and rushed time travel plotline, in addition to a romance subplot (with a WEDDING!) that was simply not believable given the lack of character/relationship development. The characters had basically zero interactions and chemistry, and *suddenly* love declarations just happened and they started being referred to as “the loving couple”… In my opinion, for romance to be believable and impactful, a *minimum* of development is essential. Same goes for friendship, betrayals, and more.

Characters: The characters were fun, despite being more like archetypes than well-rounded characters. I was pretty indifferent about the MCs, but I loved some of the side characters, such as Edgar and Bartholomew.

Writing: Some of the dialogues and action sequences were fun, but I felt like the author relied too much on exposition. I’m a fan of the show-don’t-tell technique, and I need more sensory details and other tidbits of information to connect with places and characters.

Audio: At first, I was pleasantly surprised by the dual narration, sound effects, and music. But I quickly got tired of jumping when the sounds were unexpected or too loud as compared to the narration. Also, the female voice actor’s performance was so flat it sounded like AI.

Trigger warnings: violence, murder, blood and gore, death (including of a parent), parental abuse, kidnapping and confinement, injury and injury detail, body horror and body modification, medical experimentation, etc.

Follow me on Instagram: @bibi.reads.writes

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grace by Paul Centeneo is an interesting and entertaining science-fiction novel, where the world that used to be surroudning by nature has sicne died, and everything is surrounded by machines and industry. It’s a dying world. The empire is now in control, and the people are doomed to serve them indefinitely.

The main character Kaimo de Morté is an optometrist who has to work in the mines because he doesn't have enough money to open his own shop. Then, one day his life changes 180 degrees, when he meets a group of rebels and ends up getting involved in a war against the empire fighting for a different life. During this adventure, author Paul L. Centeno brings all his experience as a philosopher and creative writer to this book. It’s a compelling and thrililng read!

It was certainly one of the more refreshing and exciting science fiction books I’ve read. I was hooked from the start with this richly descriptive writing that helps you to expand your imagination, with excellent development and brilliantly characterizing characters, captivating settings, and plot twists. I also appreciated the rich and complex vocabulary that the author handles in the course of the book, because this makes the story more intriguing and, at the same time, expands the reader’s thoughts on our current world and the state of our environment.

The storyline is good and engaging. Kaimo, the main character, had amazing development and growth as a fighter, but also on a personal level, throughout the book. The story is action-packed, and would make the ideal adaptation to film. I chose this book because I wanted something to get me out of the monotony of the day, something different, and the book surprised me. Coup de Grace by Paul Centeneo is definitely worth 5 out of 5 stars I enjoyed reading this novel, and I highly recommend it.

[Uena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is a demystification through optometry. This genuinely fantastic read presents Kaimo de Monte, a dreamer who is restricted by fate, in such a way that the reader learns and grows with the character while reading this book. This story engrossed me for a whole weekend as I read through the book continuously, except for a few meal breaks.

The story moves swiftly from Kaimo’s dreams of opening a boutique optometrist boutique to being called to a mission with the implications of saving humanity. Despite the dreary backdrop of the story, there is humor deployed by the writer that’s both brilliant and entertaining. It’s a fast-paced story that switches from third-person narrative to first-person, which is interesting in shifting the perspective while inserting nuanced commentaries and precise details of Kaimo’s surroundings and his world. His struggles with poverty and the determination to fulfill goals mirror how many people face similar hardships today and will likely in the future.

Centeno does a spectacular job of expressing the characters' faults and the world in which they struggle to survive. As an international student studying without the aid of a scholarship, I could relate to Kaimo’s dilemma and sense of dread. One of my favorite quotes in the book, “despite the early hour, the world was wide awake and waiting for him (Kaimo) to join its madness,” captures how industrialization has consumed everyone’s existence.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno and rated the book 5 out of 5 stars. I was especially impressed by how the change of tone throughout the book gave me more than one perspective, which I found gripping and impressive. It’s an excellent story that exposes how fragile the industrialized age is, and it’s a genuinely adventurous read that I highly recommend without hesitation.

[Deborah Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grace by Paul L. Centeno is set in a dystopian future, where the natural world is dying and quickly replaced with steam-powered machinery and scientific advancements. Kaimo de Morte is an idealist. He dreams of studying medicine and opening his own optometry practice. Without the financial means to achieve his goals, Kaimo must work in the mines in order to survive. His life quickly changes when he encounters insurgents and must face the reality of his world and the fate of humanity.

When Kaimo is presented with the opportunity to save the world and humankind, he is suddenly plunged into a plot rife with danger, excitement, and realistic consequences, unlike the day-to-day life of working in the mines. I really enjoyed Kaimo’s character and his growth throughout the story as he adapts from abandoning his dreams of working in the medical field and laboring hard in the mines to risking it all to save the planet. He shifts from the ordinary, dismissive hard laborer with lost dreams to a brave fighter willing to risk his life for the future of humanity.

The author’s writing style is well-paced, with the right amount of description to create a clear vision for the reader while moving quickly into the action. I found the character development excellent, primarily how Centeno details Kaimo’s internal struggles and overcoming his difficult past while facing a life-threatening future, where he musters a newfound hope and mission to save his world.

Coup de Grace by Paul L. Centeno is a great science fiction/fantasy novel that’s perfect for fans of this genre. It’s an action-packed thriller with great plot twists and ideal for anyone interested in a steampunk-themed story with great characters and vivid story writing. I rate this book a solid 5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended!

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Coup De Grace, we follow the story of Kaimo de Morte as he goes through various transitions in his life. Kaimo is an optometrist who does not live like he should. Despite the knowledge he has, Kaimo encounters challenges that prevent him from opening an optical boutique. This character is one to love as he is determined. His lack of resources does not stop him. He is forced to work in the mines to survive, and barely gets by. From the start, the reader gets this picture of a strong-minded but unlucky champ who goes where fate takes him.

Something is about to happen and Kaimo and others are going to be affected greatly. His actions will either help save the world for the future, or ruin every hope for his community and other humans. Paul Centene wrote a thrilling book that is full of action and drama. In the book, we see the effects of war, the mental acrobatics one has to go through when embracing change, the different phases of life and many more. I enjoyed the conversation among characters, and liked how every story told was unique and entertaining.

Coup De Grace is a remarkable sci fi book that will keep you on edge. The action aside, Paul Centeno gets one engrossed in tales about new industrial age, adventure and science fiction books. The sentences are easy to read, and the storyline easy to comprehend. Readers are amused throughout the book as the author uses humor and other literary stylistic devices like metaphors, rhetoric, satire and, symbolism. I rate Coup De Grace 5 out of 5 stars as it is an entertaining book with interesting characters and an exceptional storyline. I recommend Paul Centeno’s work to readers that love fantasy and science fiction as they will enjoy this book.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grace by Paul Centeno is an adventure fiction novel written by Paul Centeno. In this incredible story, we meet Kaimo de Morté, a man who works in the mines. Kaimo is an optometrist, but due to his economic situation, he cannot open his own optical boutique. Kaimo's life takes an unexpected turn when he has a chance encounter with insurgents. Unexpected things happen in this encounter. The world is changing, and he is the only one who can save it. Will he be able to do it? Or will his attempts be in vain?

With an unmatched style and a great sense of writing, the author makes us travel with this fiction. The world-building is extremely impressive, the scenes flow in a very natural way, and the description of the characters, especially the protagonist, is very complete. From the first lines of the book, the reader will encounter a very complete description of the scenes.

The plot is extremely captivating. This one has unexpected turns, and on some occasions, so unexpected that not even the protagonist himself sees them coming.The author's choice of words undoubtedly makes it difficult for the reader to put the book down. Another thing that I want to highlight is the balance between the dialogue and the descriptions. Although I mentioned before that the book has some very good descriptions, the dialogues are also impressive, and woven into the story at just the right time.

Coup de Grace by Paul Centeno is an adventure with unexpected twists that never end, which is why I would like to recommend this book to all fans of fiction that include adventures and excellent characters. I would definitely like to read more books by this author, as I think he has great potential and a great writing style. I definitely give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

[Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is a dystopian tale set in a world of the growing scourge of industry and machinery, nature withers and perishes. As hope diminishes, people look to science and the expansive steam cities ruled by the Imperium as a means to save their dying world. The protagonist, Kaimo, works as an optometrist and is too poor to open an optical store, so he is forced to work in the mines, having no idea how his life will soon change unexpectedly.

When a sudden encounter with rebels drags Kaimo into a conflict over the fate of humanity, he is unprepared to fight, save the world, or forge alliances that reach the highest levels of power. It’s an action-packed story that will keep the reader engaged throughout the book.

I enjoyed the book’s blend of medieval themes and science fiction, with a heavy dose of action. The author has an intriguing way of highlighting the main character’s inner fortitude and struggles. He develops an exciting plot as Kaimo observes the replacement of nature. I thought the author's writing style was attractive, exhibiting two contrasting elements: a sympathetic character and a terrifying amount of tension.

As the reader gets to know Kaimo as an individual and learns about the arduous task he has to complete, the author keeps this liberating focus on the story. I felt this theme was relatable to most budding democracies, which retain a hint of utilitarianism in their leadership. Each chapter is compelling, and the conversations are intriguing, illustrating the state of the world and how a disruption to a world causes ripple effects, upsetting its delicate balance.

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is an excellent book everyone should read. I give this incredible story a solid 5 out of 5 stars.

[Aparna Preethi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is a book that caught me from the beginning. This story is one of Paul Centeno’s most popular books, as it takes the readers on a roller coaster ride through the multi-faceted character of Kaimo de Monte. I sympathized with Kaimo, who was introduced as an optometrist with an exciting outlook on life. Instantly, I felt connected with the character and the storyline.

The writing style and flow made for entertaining reading, much like the “stream of consciousness” referred to in the prologue. The storyline delves into many aspects of a future world, the complex relationship between Kaimo and his father, Gabriel, and his longing for his mother. This is compounded by his disappointment with the system and grieving at the realization that his life’s dream and aspirations did not follow as his father’s, despite Kaimo’s best efforts.

We are sensitized and learn to appreciate the efforts put in by the miners whose lives are on the brink of the unexpected while grappling with a deteriorating world they are determined to save. From the invocation of John 1:1 to “The gods are either dead, or they have a sick sense of humor” and the subsequent actions, the readers are held in a constant state of anticipation, which makes this book a stellar read. Kaimo’s inner conflict, complex relationship with his father, and the subsequent realization that the mines play a more vital role in his life than expected is a grim but exciting storyline unfolding in a dark, dystopian world.

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno creates a brilliant book about an industrialized future in Zykard that could easily resemble our future. It’s a fantastic book worth 5 out of 5 stars, and I recommend picking it up, reading it, and getting lost in its magic!

[Kayla Ortega · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaimo is a simple man with a simple plan. Unfortunately, that plan goes to waste when he doesn’t get his degree to become an ophthalmologist. Now he works in the mine. That is until an invasion happens and his world is turned upside down by a single woman and a mystery.
Now he must scramble through several life-and-death situations to figure out the mystery of the Etherstone. Along the way, he falls in love with the woman and is repeatedly separated from her. Through a series of unfortunate events, he is now at the epicenter of the change of the world.
I loved the book. It was engaging and wonderful. There weren’t any grammatical errors or spelling errors. I enjoyed the steampunk and romance themes. The romance was subtle and a bit of a background theme for a bit of the book, which is nice. It became important later on but was a slow burn romance. The building of the separate cities of the book changes to give it more distinction. The economy and relationships between the cities and how they interconnect was planned out spectacularly. Kaimo finding his mom and getting married only to have both die within a few chapters of each other threw me for a loop. Never thought that would happen. There were several times in the book when you just didn’t know what was going to happen next. The terminology was on point and the characters were well written. Gotta say that Bart is by far my favorite. The ending where everything went wonky with the temporal distortions and pockets. Whoowee was that a doozy. It took me a second read through to fully grasp it, but I really enjoyed that twist. The ending was a charming and sweet surprise that I loved. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would recommend it highly

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grâce is a dystopian novel written by Paul L. Centeno. It follows the story of Kaimo de Morté, who has only known a life of everything he does not want and believe in. He is trained to be an optometrist, but given his life circumstances, he is unable to open up a practice. He is forced to work as a miner, and this was the path he thought he was settling on. But then his life changed forever when insurgents cross his path. He is thrown into a fight of his life for the future of all lives.

This book is filled with action, thrills, and dramas almost from the get-go. Readers who enjoy dystopian novels need to pick this up. I was sucked into the book right away and had a hard time putting it down at times. It is fast-paced and certainly a great enjoyment with great characters. The development of Kaimo and his personal journey tied into the main part of the story overall is done well. There are also some really cute and fun parts of the book between Kaimo and Zylpha, someone he was thrown into in the beginning of the book.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. Without giving away the ending, I think it wrapped up the story really well and gave me a satisfied feeling. There are parts of the book that really make you think. Centeno’s writing style catches the reader’s attention and keeps it throughout the book. The use of literary devices set within the world also gives it such a great kick and helps make the world he has created feel even more real. I think when creating a story set in another world, giving it depth and realistic feelings is able to keep the reader within the world, and Centeno does just that.

[Lucia Maranghello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is a fantasy novel that centers around a young man, Kaimo de Morté. He lives in a world of Zikard, a world similar to Earth, only it’s become overrun by machines and industry. To prevent the world from dying, humanity turns to science as their lord and savior, and society is regulated by the Imperium.

In Kaimo’s time, a rebellion is an uprising, and his world suddenly turns upside down when he encounters a chance to form an alliance that could either end the world or saves it. Within a short time, Kaimo learns much about the world, including surprising truths.

This book offers a creative world and an intense storyline that pulls the reader into a world desperate for peace and unification as a free world with a growing revolutionary movement. I personally enjoyed the character development and story arc, with unique twists in Kaimo’s path and those of other major characters.

Kaimo’s journey is about self-achievement and finding a place in a world where you may not be able to fulfill your initial dreams but establish another path with a worthwhile cause. The author’s writing style is friendly and creative, and this book is ideal for fans of science fiction and dystopian themes.

Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is a remarkable book; giving it 5 out of 5 stars. I enjoyed the plot twists, the different zones of the world, and the map, which added to the dimension of the story. What I liked most was following characters as they traveled to different parts of the world, finding their journey on the map, which was a cool feature. All in all, the book was entertaining to read. I highly recommend it!

[Aaron Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is a truly great read for everyone! Having not read anything for quite some time, I chose this book to reboot my reading habit and found it to be one of the best stories. It’s one of the best books I’ve read, with a relatable tone and language that’s accessible and easy to read by everyone, including an exhausted engineer lost in programming codes like me! The author offers a refreshing perspective into the world's concerns and an exciting glimpse into what lies beyond.

Kaimo’s dream of becoming the owner of an optical boutique caught me from the start, and the excruciating hours of work in the mines brought tears to my eyes, mainly where the author includes nuanced phrases like “we all struggle with poverty here,” and Kaimo’s determination to study medicine and take up residency. The ensuing struggle and mission bring out the strength hidden in the story’s protagonist and, in the process, expose humanity's ills.

Paul Centeno did a great job developing the characters and detailing their emotions and how they are intricately connected to the plot. It’s an exceptional work with an adrenaline rush of thrills, seamless flow, and intriguing plot development. Because of this book, I’m a regular reader and look forward to more stories from this author.

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is written to keep you on edge. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for the brilliant story and adrenaline rush throughout the book, about a world where the deposition of nature by technology is already a lived experience today. It’s a truly remarkable product of an even more remarkable mind.

[Ale · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coup de Grâce is an extremely fun and engaging read, reminiscent of early Asimov works. The novel follows Kaimo’s journey from simple miner to being dragged to the epicenter of societal change.
I love how grounded Kaimo feels within his world. He comes across as an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances, his dream to become an eye surgeon is realistic, and the opening train hijacking immediately throws him into the action, setting the tone for the rest of the novel.
The worldbuilding is an highlight, the author does a remarkable job of creating an immersive atmosphere without bogging down the narrative with excessive description. As Kaimo travels across various locations, each setting feels distinct and well-realized. The same applies to the secondary characters who, while not deeply explored, they all feel unique and interesting.
While the fast-paced action makes for a fun read, the plot is packed with intertwining mysteries and high-stakes moments, it left little room for deeper exploration of Kaimo and his love interest, I would have loved more time to delve into the characters and their relationships.
That said, the plot is inventive and engaging, and the conclusion ties up the narrative in a way that comes toghether in a satisfying way.
On top of that, the audiobook production is great and elevated by well-placed sound effects and musical vignettes.
Overall, Coup de Grâce is a fun read that blends action, mystery, and social commentary with an engaging style I especially recomend listening to it!

I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a review copy

[Retha Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grâce is an action-packed dystopian novel by Paul L. Centeno. The reader follows the life of Kaimo De Morté, who has had a rough life. While he is trained to be an optometrist, he does not get what he is wanting, which is opening up his own practice. The world is in a dark place currently, and he is forced to work in the mines. He has accepted his fate. However, he stumbles upon insurgents. The insurgents change his life in an unexpected way, where he is fighting not only for his life but the future for all.

If you want your books filled with action and thrills, this book is for you. Right from the beginning, it is filled with intrigue, drama, action, and thrills. It really hooks the reader in, and anyone who is a dystopian fan, this is a need to read. I immediately was drawn into the book and did not want to put it down as it was so fast and enjoyable, especially with all of the characters. The character development and the personal journeys of the characters. I also loved the dynamics between Kaimo and Zylpha. Not only was it entertaining and fun, but it was really cute.

I really liked this book overall. The ending was satisfying to me and wrapped up the book really well. I love how thought-provoking Centeno’s writing can be as well as his way of hooking the reader and keep their attention. There is a lot to the story that makes it feel real if something similar were to happen in real life. I think that also gives credit to the author’s writing, as he is able to make the story feel so real, which is a testament to the world building of the book.

[Haisam Syyed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is a novel set within a steampunk world. It’s a fantastic read! The story begins by telling you how the world has changed, how evolution has happened, and how the old gods are now gone. Machinery is taking over, and nature is slowly dying. Citizens who are desperate to prevent their world, as they know it, from dying start turning to science and the sprawling cities of steam ruled by the Imperium.



Kaimo de Morté has only ever known this world, and he’s an optometrist by trade but doesn’t have enough money to open an optical boutique. His life changes completely after an encounter with insurgents and how he stands at the forefront of a war that will decide the fate of humankind.



Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is a fantastic novel with a unique storyline within a steampunk universe. The author really nails the atmosphere of this futuristic world, along with the constantly present depressing tone of how the world has been taken over by machines, which only causes nature to die. It’s a story of humanity fighting for a living chance and one that’s done right. There is a vivid sense of emotions surrounding war, hopelessness, and a sense of adventure, thrill, and action.

Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is recommended for anyone who comes across this book. It’s a solid 5 out of 5 stars, a rating from me as the author wrote an excellent story in such an exquisite manner.

[Claire (the_reading_apprentice) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed Coup de Grâce. It was the first steampunk sci-fi / fantasy book I've ever read, and I think I'll definitely be checking out the genre again in the future.

The main character Kaimo was a great complex character to follow: he starts out as a pacifist, choosing to work in the dangerous mines than with his gunsmith father making weapons for war, but when he is caught up in the middle of a rebel train hijacking, his life takes a different path.

While I loved this aspect of Kaimo's character, I disliked how easy it was for him to switch from pacifist to soldier. I would have liked to see a more gradual change, rather than the sudden switch we see in the book.

I loved the other main characters in the book too, but particularly Bartholomew, the automaton butler. He easily became my favourite in the entire book!

Plotwise, the first half of the book was much easier to follow. Once time travel was included, it got a lot more confusing.

The audiobook narration was great, which really changed how the story felt. If I was reading it physically, I probably would have ended up DNFing it, but the audiobook was so atmospheric, it was great company. My one gripe with the audio, is that is has some music playing at the chapter breaks, and I wish that would have been a bit shorter.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

[Tara Dodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An adventurous fantasy that makes a gripping story!


A fantastical adventure story that takes place in a magical place, Coup de Grace is never a bore. This book offers a steampunk, semi-realistic story of an optometrist, forced to work in the mines due to a lack of money. The main character, Kaimo De Morte lives in the backwater countryside of Ichdarus, located in the southern mountains of Quradale in the land of Zykard. He studied as an optometrist, with the aspiration of one day opening an emporium of sorts full of optical wear. Kaimo ends up befriending a girl and they travel far away to get away from the tragedy unfolding in his town. Meeting a few friends along the way, the fight against many forces, creating intense and amazing adventure!

The story has a lot of amazing detail, and all the characters are enjoyable. The semi-realistic parts of the story make Kaimo seem like more of a relatable character which is nice. It gives him humanity and makes him someone the audience can sympathize with. The details throughout the book are also a key part of why I enjoyed this story so much. It made everything easy to visualize in great detail, and really captured my attention. The names of the characters and towns are so creative, and I loved all of them. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in fantasy, and steampunk as it’s a wonderful read.

[Sachi Ito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this story

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is a remarkable action-packed sci-fi novel. The story centers around Kaimo de Morte as he goes through different stages in his life, including his home in Icdarus, where he works as a miner. His dream is to become an optical surgeon. Despite the challenges, Kaimo is determined to achieve his goal.

The story moves quickly, following an empire that is unraveling and out of control, the impact of this development on civilization, and the challenges they face. It’s a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, from the beginning, with lots of action and unexpected twists throughout. I enjoyed the vivid, accurate description detailing the impact of war and the mental effects on characters, which were all too real.

The author’s writing style is excellent, as Centeno narrates through intriguing, intense developments while keeping it simple to follow and understand. I thought the description was impressive, with unique metaphors and symbolism throughout the book, which added much more than I expected. It’s an excellent book that’s action-packed and ideal for science fiction fans.

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno is a creative, fascinating story that’s an exciting sci-fi novel worth checking out. This book is worth 5 out of 5 stars for its unique style, plot, and characters.

[Candice Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno has an illustrated cover that quickly draws you in. It highlights each one of the character’s faces and their solemn expression, which I found intriguing. Each expression covers the inner workings of their personalities and a curiosity to find out what lies beneath their emotional faces.
While the story moves from narrated in the first person to the third person, we see the world through the eyes of Kaimo, which is described in great detail. We follow his grueling experience as a miner and his dreams of becoming an optometrist with his practice. Then, a series of events leads him to an epic battle; a fight for humanity.
From the beginning, we learn that Kaimo is not a fan of war and is driven to help individuals improve their quality of life. He contemplated how the war would achieve that and how he could turn a life around to find a better solution. Quickly, one unexpected event leads to another, and an unexpected twist of fate plunges Kaimo, and other characters, into the horrors of war. What will become of humanity, the loss of resources, and how will each battle end?
The book is a thought-provoking story that reflects on the possibility of a grim future and its effects on people. I give Coup De Grace by Paul Centeno 5 out of 5 stars. It’s an excellent story to read!

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is a fantastic dystopian fiction that initially captured my attention. Centeno is a great author with excellent narrative techniques that are highly polished and smooth, so I could read for hours without noticing time passing by.
In this story, humankind is at risk, and an encounter by chance between insurgents and a miner named Kaimo leads to a battle. Kaimo hides some truths that can lead to the end of the world, or save it, which means he carries a heavy responsibility to do the right thing and save the planet. The story is captivating, and it didn’t let me stop reading because it was easy to become quickly immersed and focused on the series of events as they unfolded.
The plot of the story was well constructed. The author presents each scene very clearly, and the characters, which are well-developed with solid backstories, are exciting and intriguing. I like how the story developed because I didn’t see it coming, making it more entertaining. The creation of the world by the author is fantastic, as he focused on every detail, adding a lot to the story.
Coup de Grâce by Paul Centeno is a book with exceptional characters and dialogue and would make a great movie. To sum it up, I give the book 5 out of 5 stars. The description of scenes, and the story as a whole, was superb! I recommend reading this book!