Status Updates From Zem

A parable on the current societal developments. What could a world look like if powerful multinational companies take over from national states. Also a statement on the refugee crisis, equating their situation today with the one faced by former citizens of those national states slave labouring for the new owners.

A bit too much superhero vibe for Zem and Salia. They find themselves at crucial turning points for Magnapole repeatedly. It is unbelievable that loners like them could have gotten in such prominent positions. I guess you have to live with that to make political thrillers work.

The world of Magnapole and GoldTex continues fascinating me. You need to read Chien 51 first. Without it, too many blanks exist. Zem so far is focused on the criminal investigation. But below, severe issues are tackled without explicit mention. (Re-)migration, prosecution without warrants, the mighty taking law in their own hands. A contemporary thriller set in a future dystopia with a message.

Sequel to Chien 51. Not translated yet and I want to read more in French anyway. With a translator app ready, it works fine. It helps that it's plot-driven.
It starts with how Zem and Salia were able to live again. In Chien 51, it was left open whether Zem survives and Salia would ever become sane again. On a quay, five gruesomely murdered corpses are discovered in a container. Salia and Zem reunite after 3 years.