Shock Absorber   By: E. G. von Wald

In Shock Absorber, E. G. von Wald takes readers on a thrilling and thought-provoking journey through a dystopian future that feels eerily familiar. Set in a world plagued by climate change, overpopulation, and political unrest, the author skillfully crafts a narrative that captivates from start to finish.

One of the strengths of this novel is its well-developed characters. Each protagonist is uniquely flawed, yet undeniably relatable. Wald delves into their inner struggles, hopes, and fears, allowing us to connect with them on a deeply personal level. From the determined yet conflicted protagonist, to the enigmatic supporting characters, their complexities and growth throughout the story make for a truly satisfying reading experience.

The world-building in Shock Absorber is both impressive and unsettling. Von Wald paints a vivid picture of a society teetering on the edge of collapse, highlighting the consequences of humanity's abuse of resources. The attention to detail in describing the environmental devastation and its impact on everyday life is both chilling and eye-opening. Readers will find themselves engrossed in this cautionary tale, pondering our own world's choices and trajectory.

Furthermore, the novel's pacing is spot-on. The author skillfully alternates between heart-pounding action sequences and quieter, introspective moments. This allows readers to catch their breath and reflect on the underlying themes woven into the narrative, such as the corrupting influence of power and the struggle for personal redemption.

However, as much as Shock Absorber excels in many aspects, it occasionally falters in its narrative execution. The dialogue can at times feel stilted and overly expository, hindering the natural flow of conversations. Additionally, some plot twists and revelations feel a bit contrived, which detracts slightly from the overall satisfaction of the story.

Despite these minor flaws, Shock Absorber serves as a compelling warning against the dangers of ignoring the consequences of our actions. E. G. von Wald's ability to create a believable yet terrifying future drives home the urgency for change. This thought-provoking and fast-paced novel will leave readers eagerly awaiting von Wald's future works.

First Page:

He looked up again and quickly added, "Oh, of course there is a discipline of a sort, and in its own way it is quite effective. Strict, too, as you will find. But it has few of the marks of the military academy, of which the regular officers were so fond. Perhaps that was the reason why they let the situation get away from them, and why we are in charge of it now... Continue reading book >>