In a near-future world ravaged by climate disaster and corporate control, most of humanity escapes into a subscription-based virtual reality while the poor are left behind in a crumbling reality. Two young soldiers—one framed for murder and forced to ally with an anarchist, the other navigating a high-stakes academy rivalry—uncover a conspiracy that exposes the dangers of unchecked power, class division, and the blurred line between digital illusion and harsh truth.

Reader Review Summary

Set in the year 2058, the story unfolds in a world where most of humanity has retreated into a subscription-based virtual reality called 'upcountry' to escape environmental collapse and epidemics, while the less privileged remain in the deteriorating 'downcountry.' The narrative follows two main characters: Eirale, a Medan orphan and corporate soldier who is framed for assassination and forced to cooperate with a notorious anarchist, and Lia, a student at Nile Military Academy whose final assignment with her academic rival leads her into a dangerous mission. The plot alternates between their perspectives, exploring both the digital and physical realities of the divided world, and gradually reveals a larger conspiracy that connects their fates. The setting is characterized by cyberpunk elements such as neon-lit cities, advanced technology like StrangeLoom (the VR system), and the dominance of the megacorporation NileCorp, which controls both the virtual and real worlds.

Readers highlighted several aspects they enjoyed, including the depth of worldbuilding, the contrast between the high-tech virtual reality and the grim downcountry, and the detailed depiction of societal divisions and corporate control. The dual POV structure, with Eirale's grittier soldier narrative and Lia's lighter, more humorous student perspective, was frequently praised for its balance and character development. Many appreciated the action sequences, the integration of political and social commentary, and the presence of themes such as corruption, revolution, and hope. The found family dynamic, subtle romantic tension, and the academic rivalry subplot were also noted as engaging elements. Readers commented on the immersive writing style, the emotional stakes, and the way plot twists and clues were woven throughout the story, leading to a satisfying convergence of the two main storylines.

Some readers expressed reservations about the pacing, particularly in the first half of the book, which was described as slower due to the extensive worldbuilding. A few found the ending to be rushed or somewhat confusing, with some details requiring a reread to fully understand the resolution. There were also mixed reactions to the book's cover design, though this was a minor point compared to the narrative content. While the majority of feedback was positive, a small number of readers indicated that the complexity of the plot and the number of characters could be challenging to follow at times.

The book is the first in a new dystopian trilogy by Chloe Gong and marks a departure from her previous Shakespeare-inspired works, instead focusing on an original cyberpunk setting. The narrative draws parallels between its fictional world and contemporary issues such as corporate power, environmental decline, and social inequality. The story has generated significant anticipation among readers, with many expressing eagerness for the next installment. The book is scheduled for publication on November 4, 2025, and has received a high average rating from early reviewers, many of whom received advance copies from the publisher.