In a near-future Charleston devastated by relentless, climate change-fueled storms, a former US Marshal and a reformed serial killer form an uneasy alliance to investigate a string of murders amid lawless chaos, predatory elites, and bizarre cults. Blending cyberpunk and detective thriller elements, the story explores themes of survival, power, and the resilience of the human spirit in a world undone by environmental and social collapse.

Reader Review Summary

Set in a near-future, climate-ravaged Charleston, South Carolina, the novel takes place in a region known as Stormland, where relentless, hurricane-strength storms have rendered the area lawless and largely abandoned. The story follows a former US Marshal, Darryl Webb, who is sent to Stormland to track down an escaped serial killer, only to become entangled in a deeper conspiracy involving mind control, nanotechnology, and the machinations of ultra-wealthy antagonists who exploit the chaos for their own entertainment. The setting is characterized by perpetual tempests, flooded ruins, and a cast of survivors who remain for various personal reasons, including a benevolent cult and predatory gangs. The narrative blends elements of cyberpunk, detective thriller, and dystopian fiction, with a focus on the impact of climate change, societal collapse, and the resilience of those left behind.

Readers frequently praised the worldbuilding, highlighting the vivid depiction of a storm-battered Charleston and the atmospheric tension created by the constant threat of extreme weather. The setting was described as immersive, with many noting how the relentless storms and ruined cityscape contributed to a sense of danger and urgency. Several reviewers appreciated the integration of cyberpunk and technological elements, such as mind control, nanotechnology, and surveillance drones, as well as the exploration of themes like power, control, and survival. The pacing and action, particularly in the latter parts of the book, were also cited as strengths, with some readers finding the story gripping and the blend of genres effective. The book's focus on adult characters and its avoidance of young adult tropes were also noted positively.

Criticisms centered on the characterization and plot development. Many readers found the characters, including the protagonist and villains, to be underdeveloped, one-dimensional, or clichéd, with some describing the antagonists as cartoonish or heavy-handed. The story was sometimes perceived as chaotic, with too many characters and a narrative that could feel confusing or flat. Several reviewers felt the transitions between real life and cyber elements were clunky, and some struggled to connect with or care about the characters. The ending was described by some as rushed or unsatisfying, and a few readers questioned the plausibility of the science and the believability of certain character relationships. Others noted that the book did not fully capitalize on its setting or speculative potential, and a number of readers did not finish the book due to lack of engagement.

The book has received a mixed reception, with an average reader rating of 3.59 out of 5 from 125 ratings and 27 full reviews. It is categorized as science fiction, cyberpunk, dystopia, and audiobook, and was published in April 2021. The author, John Shirley, is recognized for his contributions to the cyberpunk genre and for his previous works in both original and tie-in fiction. The narrative incorporates elements of climate fiction and social commentary, with some reviewers drawing comparisons to other works in the genre, such as 'Ship Breaker' and 'Heavy Weather.' The book has been noted for its sensory-laden descriptions and its attempt to dramatize the effects of climate change and societal breakdown, though opinions vary on its execution and overall impact.