Immortality: Epocalypse by David Martorano is a riveting sci-fi adventure set in a future where technology has fundamentally reshaped society. The story unfolds after the “Epocalypse,” an event that fractured the world into distinct factions. At its center stands Babylon, a gleaming metropolis controlled by two formidable AI entities, offering a version of immortality to an elite few—though not without grave consequences. In stark contrast, the New Amish live outside Babylon, rejecting technology under the leadership of Jeb Thompson. Once the creator of MARTIN, a supercomputer that nearly obliterated humanity, Jeb now renounces the tech-driven immortality and seeks to guide his followers back to a simpler, more spiritual path. However, when his daughter falls into the hands of Babylon’s factions, Jeb faces an agonizing dilemma: whether to revive MARTIN to save her, despite the destruction it once nearly caused.

The novel is a dynamic blend of futuristic adventure and philosophical reflection, echoing the thought-provoking works of authors like William Gibson and Orson Scott Card. On the surface, Immortality: Epocalypse delivers classic sci-fi elements—questions of unchecked technological growth, the perils of artificial intelligence, and the consequences of playing god with humanity’s future. Yet, beneath these familiar themes lies a deeper narrative that challenges readers to think critically about the path humanity is forging. Martorano demonstrates a clear skill for crafting complex characters thrust into moral quandaries, none more so than Jeb. Once a fervent believer in the promise of technology, Jeb now seeks redemption for his past, making his potential reactivation of MARTIN all the more compelling and ironic. His journey reflects the timeless struggle between progress and restraint, a conflict that resonates deeply in our tech-driven world.

The themes explored in Immortality: Epocalypse—humanity’s relentless drive to invent, often at its own peril—are not new, but Martorano tackles them with fresh insight and eloquence. The novel challenges its readers, offering much more than just a fast-paced sci-fi romp. Those who wish to dive deeper will find layers of subtext, rewarding careful reflection on the dangers of a future too reliant on technology. Yet, for those seeking pure entertainment, the book delivers in spades. This is a story that invites both casual enjoyment and thoughtful contemplation, making it a standout addition to the genre.

Pages: 645 | ASIN : B0D9R51RKN