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CEMENTOPOLIS
The inside joke was that they were hatchlings, genomic trash, chicks from the Pentagon henhouses. The black humor masked the hard reality that the super soldiers created at the Eau Claire Project and other black sites were now unexpectedly timing out. They faced certain -- and a grisly -- disintegration.
Trevelyan Moss, an Eau Claire “graduate” and a veteran of the serial wars in the western Pacific, is sent to the Navy’s Cyberwarfare outfit in Souda Bay where he meets Nepheli, the math whiz and Cretan beauty.
Moss takes an express discharge from the Navy. He will go undercover in New Racine, the half finished smart city on the shores of Lake Michigan, to take down a renegade oligarch terrorizing much of the Midwest with a fleet of driverless bomb cars called Weevils. Moss talks Nepheli into joining him along with Marcus, her teenaged son. Desperate for a new start, she agrees to go. But she’s frustrated and mystified at how little she knows about Moss’ background and his reluctance to talk about his family.
The undercover work gets Moss close to Eau Claire. And maybe – how exactly he doesn’t know -- he can begin to find some answers, make some connections, find some genomic clue that will make him whole.
Nothing seems to stop Moss. Not Bad Axe Security, the oligarch’s brutal private police. Not the warring gangs in New Racine’s no-go zones. Not even double-crossing Col. Mac McKelvey, the man who had mentored Moss — controlled really — since Eau Claire days.
And it all goes horribly wrong.
Ah the smell of electric vehicle fires in the morning! In New Racine, the future ain't what it used to be.
Trevelyan Moss, an Eau Claire “graduate” and a veteran of the serial wars in the western Pacific, is sent to the Navy’s Cyberwarfare outfit in Souda Bay where he meets Nepheli, the math whiz and Cretan beauty.
Moss takes an express discharge from the Navy. He will go undercover in New Racine, the half finished smart city on the shores of Lake Michigan, to take down a renegade oligarch terrorizing much of the Midwest with a fleet of driverless bomb cars called Weevils. Moss talks Nepheli into joining him along with Marcus, her teenaged son. Desperate for a new start, she agrees to go. But she’s frustrated and mystified at how little she knows about Moss’ background and his reluctance to talk about his family.
The undercover work gets Moss close to Eau Claire. And maybe – how exactly he doesn’t know -- he can begin to find some answers, make some connections, find some genomic clue that will make him whole.
Nothing seems to stop Moss. Not Bad Axe Security, the oligarch’s brutal private police. Not the warring gangs in New Racine’s no-go zones. Not even double-crossing Col. Mac McKelvey, the man who had mentored Moss — controlled really — since Eau Claire days.
And it all goes horribly wrong.
Ah the smell of electric vehicle fires in the morning! In New Racine, the future ain't what it used to be.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
August 15, 2024
Imagine a future so dark that even the promise of technology and innovation feels more like a curse than a blessing. Van Ledyard’s Cementopolis drops us into such a future, blending grim reality with cyber intrigue in a way that’s both captivating and chilling. Known for his knack for darkly imaginative storytelling, Ledyard once again proves he’s a master at creating immersive, high-stakes narratives.
The story kicks off with Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a murky past, who’s transitioning from the Navy’s Cyberwarfare unit to the chaotic smart city of New Racine on Lake Michigan. Moss, now on an undercover mission, is up against a rogue oligarch armed with a fleet of driverless bomb cars called Weevils. He’s not alone; he teams up with Nepheli, a brilliant Cretan mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of New Racine, Moss’s quest for redemption and answers intertwines with their fight for survival.
Ledyard’s writing is a jolt of adrenaline. His prose is crisp and evocative, capturing the bleakness of New Racine with such intensity that you can almost feel the decay and danger in the air. The narrative flows with a raw energy that matches the high-stakes action, making it impossible to look away. His unique style—blending futuristic jargon with gritty, noir-like descriptions—creates a compelling atmosphere that’s both unsettling and enthralling.
The characters in Cementopolis are anything but one-dimensional. Moss is a deeply flawed but fascinating protagonist, haunted by his past and driven by a need for answers. Nepheli adds emotional depth, her struggle with her new reality and her son’s well-being adding layers to the story. Their relationship with Moss brings a human touch to the otherwise high-tech chaos, making their personal stakes feel as critical as the plot’s larger conflicts.
The plot of Cementopolis is a whirlwind of suspense and action. Ledyard crafts a story full of unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing. The pacing is relentless, mirroring the urgency of Moss’s mission and the ever-present danger. The way Ledyard structures the narrative—balancing Moss’s undercover operations with the broader threats in New Racine—keeps the tension high and the reader fully engaged.
At its core, Cementopolis explores themes of power, control, and identity. It raises questions about the impact of technology and corporate greed on society, reflecting anxieties about our own future. Ledyard’s exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and unsettling, offering a critical look at a world where human values seem to be eroding under the weight of technological advancement.
Emotionally, the book is a rollercoaster. From heart-pounding action scenes to moments of deep personal conflict, Ledyard elicits a range of feelings that keep you invested in the story. The tension is palpable, and the characters’ struggles resonate on a personal level, making their journey all the more gripping.
The strengths of Cementopolis are evident in its dynamic characters, richly imagined setting, and intense plot. Specific scenes, such as Moss’s encounters with the Weevils and his revelations about the Eau Claire Project, highlight Ledyard’s talent for creating impactful, dramatic moments.
However, the book isn’t without its flaws. Some readers might find the intricate details of the technology a bit overwhelming or the plot twists somewhat convoluted. Streamlining certain subplots could enhance the overall clarity and cohesion of the narrative.
Personally, Cementopolis struck a chord with me due to its darkly imaginative take on the future and its exploration of personal and societal struggles. Ledyard’s vision of a future plagued by technological and moral decay is both compelling and thought-provoking, leaving me eager to see where his storytelling will take us next.
In summary, Van Ledyard’s Cementopolis is a gripping, high-stakes thriller that combines intense action with deep thematic exploration. If you’re drawn to futuristic dystopias with rich character development and a dark edge, this book is a must-read. Ledyard’s skillful blend of suspense and insight makes me excited for what he’ll write next.
#Cementopolis #VanLedyard #DystopianThriller #CyberpunkFiction #FutureNoir
The story kicks off with Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a murky past, who’s transitioning from the Navy’s Cyberwarfare unit to the chaotic smart city of New Racine on Lake Michigan. Moss, now on an undercover mission, is up against a rogue oligarch armed with a fleet of driverless bomb cars called Weevils. He’s not alone; he teams up with Nepheli, a brilliant Cretan mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of New Racine, Moss’s quest for redemption and answers intertwines with their fight for survival.
Ledyard’s writing is a jolt of adrenaline. His prose is crisp and evocative, capturing the bleakness of New Racine with such intensity that you can almost feel the decay and danger in the air. The narrative flows with a raw energy that matches the high-stakes action, making it impossible to look away. His unique style—blending futuristic jargon with gritty, noir-like descriptions—creates a compelling atmosphere that’s both unsettling and enthralling.
The characters in Cementopolis are anything but one-dimensional. Moss is a deeply flawed but fascinating protagonist, haunted by his past and driven by a need for answers. Nepheli adds emotional depth, her struggle with her new reality and her son’s well-being adding layers to the story. Their relationship with Moss brings a human touch to the otherwise high-tech chaos, making their personal stakes feel as critical as the plot’s larger conflicts.
The plot of Cementopolis is a whirlwind of suspense and action. Ledyard crafts a story full of unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing. The pacing is relentless, mirroring the urgency of Moss’s mission and the ever-present danger. The way Ledyard structures the narrative—balancing Moss’s undercover operations with the broader threats in New Racine—keeps the tension high and the reader fully engaged.
At its core, Cementopolis explores themes of power, control, and identity. It raises questions about the impact of technology and corporate greed on society, reflecting anxieties about our own future. Ledyard’s exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and unsettling, offering a critical look at a world where human values seem to be eroding under the weight of technological advancement.
Emotionally, the book is a rollercoaster. From heart-pounding action scenes to moments of deep personal conflict, Ledyard elicits a range of feelings that keep you invested in the story. The tension is palpable, and the characters’ struggles resonate on a personal level, making their journey all the more gripping.
The strengths of Cementopolis are evident in its dynamic characters, richly imagined setting, and intense plot. Specific scenes, such as Moss’s encounters with the Weevils and his revelations about the Eau Claire Project, highlight Ledyard’s talent for creating impactful, dramatic moments.
However, the book isn’t without its flaws. Some readers might find the intricate details of the technology a bit overwhelming or the plot twists somewhat convoluted. Streamlining certain subplots could enhance the overall clarity and cohesion of the narrative.
Personally, Cementopolis struck a chord with me due to its darkly imaginative take on the future and its exploration of personal and societal struggles. Ledyard’s vision of a future plagued by technological and moral decay is both compelling and thought-provoking, leaving me eager to see where his storytelling will take us next.
In summary, Van Ledyard’s Cementopolis is a gripping, high-stakes thriller that combines intense action with deep thematic exploration. If you’re drawn to futuristic dystopias with rich character development and a dark edge, this book is a must-read. Ledyard’s skillful blend of suspense and insight makes me excited for what he’ll write next.
#Cementopolis #VanLedyard #DystopianThriller #CyberpunkFiction #FutureNoir
August 1, 2024
**Book Review: "Cementopolish" by Van Ledyard**
Imagine a future so dark that even the promise of technology and innovation feels more like a curse than a blessing. Van Ledyard’s Cementopolis drops us into such a future, blending grim reality with cyber intrigue in a way that’s both captivating and chilling. Known for his knack for darkly imaginative storytelling, Ledyard once again proves he’s a master at creating immersive, high-stakes narratives.
The story kicks off with Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a murky past, who’s transitioning from the Navy’s Cyberwarfare unit to the chaotic smart city of New Racine on Lake Michigan. Moss, now on an undercover mission, is up against a rogue oligarch armed with a fleet of driverless bomb cars called Weevils. He’s not alone; he teams up with Nepheli, a brilliant Cretan mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of New Racine, Moss’s quest for redemption and answers intertwines with their fight for survival.
The plot of Cementopolis is a whirlwind of suspense and action. Ledyard crafts a story full of unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing. The pacing is relentless, mirroring the urgency of Moss’s mission and the ever-present danger. The way Ledyard structures the narrative—balancing Moss’s undercover operations with the broader threats in New Racine—keeps the tension high and the reader fully engaged.
At its core, Cementopolis explores themes of power, control, and identity. It raises questions about the impact of technology and corporate greed on society, reflecting anxieties about our own future. Ledyard’s exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and unsettling, offering a critical look at a world where human values seem to be eroding under the weight of technological advancement.
In summary, Van Ledyard’s Cementopolis is a gripping, high-stakes thriller that combines intense action with deep thematic exploration. If you’re drawn to futuristic dystopias with rich character development and a dark edge, this book is a must-read. Ledyard’s skillful blend of suspense and insight makes me excited for what he’ll write next.
August 28, 2024
Rating-⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Van Ledyard’s *Cementopolis* plunges readers into a dystopian world where technology’s promises become harrowing curses. Celebrated for his hauntingly vivid imagination, Ledyard weaves a tale that is as mesmerizing as it is unsettling.
The narrative follows Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a troubled past, who transitions from the Navy’s Cyberwarfare unit to the tumultuous smart city of New Racine. His covert mission is to thwart a rogue oligarch who commands a fleet of driverless bomb cars known as Weevils. Moss joins forces with Nepheli, a brilliant Cretan mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. Their perilous journey through New Racine intertwines Moss’s search for redemption with their struggle for survival.
Ledyard’s prose is a masterclass in evocative storytelling. His depiction of New Racine’s decay is so vivid that readers can almost feel the city’s suffocating despair. The fusion of futuristic jargon with gritty, noir-like imagery crafts an atmosphere that is both captivating and haunting. Moss and Nepheli, rendered with profound depth, navigate their turbulent world, their personal stakes imbuing the high-stakes action with emotional resonance.
The plot of *Cementopolis* is a relentless torrent of suspense and intrigue. Ledyard’s narrative, full of unexpected twists and frenetic pacing, keeps readers on edge. His exploration of themes like power, control, and identity offers a poignant reflection on the anxieties of our technological age. As he writes, “In a world where machines govern, humanity grapples with its own reflection.”
*Cementopolis* remains a compelling and emotionally charged read. Ledyard’s dark vision of the future, combined with his exceptional storytelling craft, makes this novel a must-read for those enthralled by dystopian sagas that delve into the heart of both societal and personal turmoil. As the story closes, it leaves readers contemplating a future where technology’s promises and perils are inextricably intertwined
Van Ledyard’s *Cementopolis* plunges readers into a dystopian world where technology’s promises become harrowing curses. Celebrated for his hauntingly vivid imagination, Ledyard weaves a tale that is as mesmerizing as it is unsettling.
The narrative follows Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a troubled past, who transitions from the Navy’s Cyberwarfare unit to the tumultuous smart city of New Racine. His covert mission is to thwart a rogue oligarch who commands a fleet of driverless bomb cars known as Weevils. Moss joins forces with Nepheli, a brilliant Cretan mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. Their perilous journey through New Racine intertwines Moss’s search for redemption with their struggle for survival.
Ledyard’s prose is a masterclass in evocative storytelling. His depiction of New Racine’s decay is so vivid that readers can almost feel the city’s suffocating despair. The fusion of futuristic jargon with gritty, noir-like imagery crafts an atmosphere that is both captivating and haunting. Moss and Nepheli, rendered with profound depth, navigate their turbulent world, their personal stakes imbuing the high-stakes action with emotional resonance.
The plot of *Cementopolis* is a relentless torrent of suspense and intrigue. Ledyard’s narrative, full of unexpected twists and frenetic pacing, keeps readers on edge. His exploration of themes like power, control, and identity offers a poignant reflection on the anxieties of our technological age. As he writes, “In a world where machines govern, humanity grapples with its own reflection.”
*Cementopolis* remains a compelling and emotionally charged read. Ledyard’s dark vision of the future, combined with his exceptional storytelling craft, makes this novel a must-read for those enthralled by dystopian sagas that delve into the heart of both societal and personal turmoil. As the story closes, it leaves readers contemplating a future where technology’s promises and perils are inextricably intertwined
August 18, 2024
Cementopolis is a roller coaster, which not only presents the vision of what awaits in the future in terms of technological advancements and discoveries, but also the malicious and sinful side of people.
Readers will find this book to be a worthy addition to the action fiction genre, as well as a story that makes one think while offering violence and pace without cease.
The Cementopolish is a post-apocalyptic series depicting human-like technology, society in which the distinction between man and the machine becomes irrelevant, and depicting the world as a horrific place for the future.
There are characters like Trevelyan Moss who is also a genetically modified super soldier from the Eau Claire Project which is a clandestine laboratory of the government where they have been developing genetically modified warriors.
Moss becomes entangled between an evil businessman known as the Oligarch who has been deploying Weevils- driverless cars filled with bombs all over the mid-west. During the plot solving with the help of teenage boy Marcus and his mother Nepheli, Moss has to battle with his own past and the dark forces that formed him.
Cementopolish is dripping with black comedy and sarcasm and irony on top of it all that gives the reader a thinly veiled look at the hardness of the super soldiers life.
In its essence, Cementopolish is a story of who people are and who they may become. The failure of Moss to get some answers regarding his past life and the identity of his race and genetic code represent existential human questions and concerns.
Readers will find this book to be a worthy addition to the action fiction genre, as well as a story that makes one think while offering violence and pace without cease.
The Cementopolish is a post-apocalyptic series depicting human-like technology, society in which the distinction between man and the machine becomes irrelevant, and depicting the world as a horrific place for the future.
There are characters like Trevelyan Moss who is also a genetically modified super soldier from the Eau Claire Project which is a clandestine laboratory of the government where they have been developing genetically modified warriors.
Moss becomes entangled between an evil businessman known as the Oligarch who has been deploying Weevils- driverless cars filled with bombs all over the mid-west. During the plot solving with the help of teenage boy Marcus and his mother Nepheli, Moss has to battle with his own past and the dark forces that formed him.
Cementopolish is dripping with black comedy and sarcasm and irony on top of it all that gives the reader a thinly veiled look at the hardness of the super soldiers life.
In its essence, Cementopolish is a story of who people are and who they may become. The failure of Moss to get some answers regarding his past life and the identity of his race and genetic code represent existential human questions and concerns.
August 21, 2024
Van Ledyard’s Cementopolis is a gripping dystopian thriller that masterfully blends black humor with a stark, futuristic vision of society. The story revolves around Trevelyan Moss, a former super soldier created by the secretive Eau Claire Project, now facing the grim reality of his imminent disintegration. Moss, hardened by wars in the Western Pacific, takes on a new mission in the crumbling smart city of New Racine. Here, he goes undercover to dismantle a rogue oligarch terrorizing the Midwest with his fleet of deadly driverless bomb cars, known as Weevils.
Moss’s journey is far from straightforward. He teams up with Nepheli, a brilliant mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus, both seeking a fresh start. Yet, Nepheli’s growing frustration with Moss’s secretive past adds emotional depth to the high-stakes action. As Moss delves deeper into his mission, he confronts not only the oligarch’s brutal forces but also the haunting remnants of his past at Eau Claire.
Ledyard’s writing is sharp and evocative, creating a chilling atmosphere where technology and decay coexist. The novel’s intense action, unexpected twists, and exploration of themes like identity and power make it a thought-provoking read. Cementopolis is a dark, compelling tale that leaves readers questioning the future of technology and humanity.
Moss’s journey is far from straightforward. He teams up with Nepheli, a brilliant mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus, both seeking a fresh start. Yet, Nepheli’s growing frustration with Moss’s secretive past adds emotional depth to the high-stakes action. As Moss delves deeper into his mission, he confronts not only the oligarch’s brutal forces but also the haunting remnants of his past at Eau Claire.
Ledyard’s writing is sharp and evocative, creating a chilling atmosphere where technology and decay coexist. The novel’s intense action, unexpected twists, and exploration of themes like identity and power make it a thought-provoking read. Cementopolis is a dark, compelling tale that leaves readers questioning the future of technology and humanity.
August 28, 2024
Van Ledyard’s *Cementopolis* plunges readers into a chilling future where technology's promises have become ominous threats. In this gritty, cyber-noir tale, Ledyard masterfully blends suspense with a profound exploration of humanity.
Ledyard’s writing vividly captures the bleakness of New Racine, with prose that’s as raw and relentless as the story itself. The city's crumbling facade and looming threats are rendered with an intensity that pulls you into the heart of the action.
In *Cementopolis*, we follow Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a troubled past, as he navigates the dystopian chaos of New Racine. His covert mission to dismantle a rogue oligarch's deadly fleet of driverless bomb cars becomes intertwined with his alliance with Nepheli, a brilliant mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. Their shared fight for survival amid the city's decay creates a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply emotional.
At its core, *Cementopolis* is a meditation on power, technology, and human values. Ledyard's exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and sobering, offering a critical look at a world where technological advancement threatens to overshadow our humanity.
* Cementopolis* stands as a testament to Ledyard’s exceptional storytelling, merging intense action with reflective commentary on the future. This novel resonates long after the final page.
Ledyard’s writing vividly captures the bleakness of New Racine, with prose that’s as raw and relentless as the story itself. The city's crumbling facade and looming threats are rendered with an intensity that pulls you into the heart of the action.
In *Cementopolis*, we follow Trevelyan Moss, a soldier with a troubled past, as he navigates the dystopian chaos of New Racine. His covert mission to dismantle a rogue oligarch's deadly fleet of driverless bomb cars becomes intertwined with his alliance with Nepheli, a brilliant mathematician, and her teenage son, Marcus. Their shared fight for survival amid the city's decay creates a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply emotional.
At its core, *Cementopolis* is a meditation on power, technology, and human values. Ledyard's exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and sobering, offering a critical look at a world where technological advancement threatens to overshadow our humanity.
* Cementopolis* stands as a testament to Ledyard’s exceptional storytelling, merging intense action with reflective commentary on the future. This novel resonates long after the final page.
August 18, 2024
Huge respect and great appreciation to the author @vanledyard for writing such a masterpiece of a book.
What a book this is! I started it. I can’t believe I couldn’t stop before finishing it. The plot is amazing. No irrelevant information, extremely unpredictable. The best part about it is that you will not get bored at any point. Every page is beautifully written. I can read it as many times as possible. Loved it!!
This is a gripping read that combines black humor with a gritty, dystopian setting. The story follows Trevelyan Moss, a former super soldier, as he goes undercover in a futuristic city to take down a dangerous oligarch using driverless bomb cars. The novel effectively delves into themes of identity and betrayal, with Moss’s complex background driving the narrative. The portrayal of a high-tech, crumbling city and intense action sequences keep the pace thrilling.
However, the novel’s dense plot might be challenging for some readers, but it’s a compelling dive into a dark, futuristic world.
What a book this is! I started it. I can’t believe I couldn’t stop before finishing it. The plot is amazing. No irrelevant information, extremely unpredictable. The best part about it is that you will not get bored at any point. Every page is beautifully written. I can read it as many times as possible. Loved it!!
This is a gripping read that combines black humor with a gritty, dystopian setting. The story follows Trevelyan Moss, a former super soldier, as he goes undercover in a futuristic city to take down a dangerous oligarch using driverless bomb cars. The novel effectively delves into themes of identity and betrayal, with Moss’s complex background driving the narrative. The portrayal of a high-tech, crumbling city and intense action sequences keep the pace thrilling.
However, the novel’s dense plot might be challenging for some readers, but it’s a compelling dive into a dark, futuristic world.
August 27, 2024
The action and suspense in Cementopolis is thrilling. You'll always be on the edge of your seat as the author skilfully crafts a story full of unexpected turns and twists. The narrative explores the impact of corporate greed and technology on society, delving into deep subjects like control and identity. It's a thought-provoking read that gets you to reflect on these problems and our own future in depth.
Heart-pounding action and complex, thought-provoking ideas are combined in this gripping thriller. This novel is one you won't want to miss if you like dark, well-developed characters in futuristic dystopias. It is a remarkable experience for everyone who enjoys a compelling narrative with significant depth because it is jam-packed with tension and insight.
I was captivated by the story's rapid-fire plot and all of its turns and surprises from beginning to end. Every reading moment was intriguing and well worth the exhilarating ride.
Heart-pounding action and complex, thought-provoking ideas are combined in this gripping thriller. This novel is one you won't want to miss if you like dark, well-developed characters in futuristic dystopias. It is a remarkable experience for everyone who enjoys a compelling narrative with significant depth because it is jam-packed with tension and insight.
I was captivated by the story's rapid-fire plot and all of its turns and surprises from beginning to end. Every reading moment was intriguing and well worth the exhilarating ride.
August 21, 2024
Some stories are much entangled than the others while the few has the competency and consistency to build the lives some more will try to educate us .
Recently i read one such interesting title named Cementopolis by Van Ledyard where the story revolves around the protagonist Treveylan Moss who is an soldier in the quest of survival.
The book is overwhelming with the many interesting and specific characters that built upon the redemption and fills the twists with the enthusiasm.
A good one to indulge
Recently i read one such interesting title named Cementopolis by Van Ledyard where the story revolves around the protagonist Treveylan Moss who is an soldier in the quest of survival.
The book is overwhelming with the many interesting and specific characters that built upon the redemption and fills the twists with the enthusiasm.
A good one to indulge
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews