In Steve Shahbazian’s captivating novel, Endgame, a precarious clash ensues between The Trads—a fanatical religious group—and Faithcorp, an organization accused of heralding the apocalypse with their technology-based spirituality. As the leaders of these two factions mysteriously disappear, a series of chilling assassinations unfurl, targeting Faithcorp’s executive echelons. At the heart of the whirlwind stands Cynthia, a Licensed Operative with a troubled past. A societal cleaner who dispenses justice with an iron fist, she is inexorably drawn towards unearthing the elusive truth. Amid her quest for answers, Cynthia grapples with her capacity for trust and the potent mysteries she is determined to unravel.

Cynthia is a richly developed character, brimming with an unflinching assertiveness that lends her an immediate appeal. Her brusque honesty and irrepressible wit consistently infuse refreshing humor throughout the narrative, eliciting an anticipatory delight for her next unexpected quip. Shahbazian’s talent shines as he imbues Cynthia with memorable lines, such as likening a bewildered glance to receiving a “slap across the face with a wet fish.”

Shahbazian masterfully paints a bleak yet captivating backdrop of a dystopian future. Civil order has frayed to the point of disarray—criminal investigations have lost their procedural sheen, and society is plagued by rampant addiction to simulations. As Cynthia delves deeper into her inquiries, the author gradually unveils the contours of this stark world—each violent outburst, every destitute addict donning “rickety headsets,” and the imposing futuristic infrastructure, serving to further illustrate the stark reality of this universe.

Endgame seamlessly interweaves philosophical discourse with its primary themes of investigation, religion, and artificial intelligence. It offers the reader an intellectual challenge, posing interesting inquiries such as “How do you know that what you assume to be real isn’t, in fact, an illusion?” that subtly rattle one’s perception of reality.

Firmly etching his mark with well-drawn characters and intricately woven plotlines, Shahbazian demonstrates his adept skill as a storyteller. Yet, even without these elements, the narrative’s enticing humor and candor would alone make it a worthwhile read. A compelling amalgamation of sci-fi and philosophy, Endgame is a treat for any fan of The Matrix and similar genre-blending narratives. Shahbazian’s exceptional writing makes it an unmissable addition to any avid reader’s list.

Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0BXDKF4KS