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Books matching: near future setting

100 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    Termination Shock by Neal Stephenson
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    Neal Stephenson's 'Termination Shock' is a techno-thriller set in a near future world dealing with climate change. The book follows multiple storylines involving characters from different backgrounds and locations, including a Canadian Sikh, a veteran pig hunter, and European royalty. As the characters' paths converge, they become embroiled in a complex plot involving climate engineering, geopolitical consequences, and social media influence. Stephenson's writing style combines humor, social commentary, and intricate technological details to create a thought-provoking narrative that explores the impacts of climate change and the potential solutions to mitigate its effects.

    Houston’s air was too hot to support airplanes. Oh, the queen’s jet could have landed there, given that, during the flight from Schiphol, it had converted ten thousand kilograms of fuel into carbon di...

  2. #2

    Mother of Storms by John Barnes
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    John Barnes' "Mother of Storms" is a thrilling novel set in the future of 2028, where killer hurricanes are unleashed due to a nuclear explosion releasing methane from undersea clathrate deposits. The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, delving into the science of global weather patterns and meteorological phenomena. The plot unfolds with a military action leading to the escalation of ocean temperatures and the creation of superstorms that threaten Earth's population. Despite the disaster theme, the book explores cyber reality, deep space, and the role of augmented humans in saving the world.

    Barnes weaves a complex narrative that encompasses political, social, and business angles of life in 2028, highlighting technological advancements such as self-driving vehicles and social media. The book touches on themes of global cataclysm and the need for humanity to reset, while also incorporating elements of suspense, unexpected twists, and a wide cast of characters that maintain varying levels of interest throughout the story.


  3. #3
    Agency
    Book 2 in the series:The Peripheral

    Agency - The Peripheral by William Gibson
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    In 'Agency', Verity Jane, an app whisperer, is hired to beta test a new AI product named Eunice. The AI proves to be more powerful and autonomous than expected, leading to a frantic chase by its backers, the Cursion. Meanwhile, characters from the 22nd century, such as Wilf Netherton and Lowbeer, interact with Verity's timeline to prevent a catastrophic event. The story unfolds in alternating viewpoints, shifting between different timelines and locations, showcasing Gibson's classic style of dropping the reader into a world of unfamiliar technology with minimal explanation.

    'Agency' explores themes of technology, autonomy, and accountability in a near-future setting where Brexit was avoided and Trump lost the election. The narrative delves into the consequences of technology integration, information warfare, and the potential for subverting oppressive systems. The book moves at a breathless pace, blending cutting-edge technology with eerie examples of AI manipulation, all while maintaining a focus on the importance of transparency and accountability in a free society.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Peripheral )

  4. #4

    Three Laws Lethal by David Walton
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    In the near future, 'Three Laws Lethal' by David Walton explores a world where self-driving cars are a reality, sparking fierce competition among big name car manufacturers. The story follows two friends at college who develop a state-of-the-art predictive system to revolutionize the market. As the plot unfolds, ethical and moral questions arise around artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles, delving into the complexities of technology, society, and human choices.


  5. #5
    The Middleman
    Book 1 in the series:Middleman

    The Middleman - Middleman by Olen Steinhauer
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    The Middleman by Olen Steinhauer is a contemporary fiction novel that delves into the unsettling world of social movements, political unrest, and espionage. The story follows Special Agent Rachel Proulx as she investigates the disappearance of members of a social movement called the Massive Brigade, which is viewed as a potential terrorist group by the FBI. As Rachel delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers conflicting roles within the FBI and a narrative that blurs the lines between fiction and reality. The book intricately weaves together themes of corruption, social change, and the complexities of modern-day espionage with a writing style that keeps readers engaged despite its challenging phases.


  6. #6

    The Afterlives by Thomas Pierce
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    The Afterlives by Thomas Pierce is a novel that delves into the themes of life, death, and the afterlife through the eyes of the protagonist, Jim Byrd. After a near-death experience, Jim becomes hyper-aware of mortality and embarks on a journey with his wife, Annie, to search for answers about what comes next. The novel weaves together elements of speculative fiction, metaphysics, and love, exploring the existential dread of mortality and the quest for meaning beyond life.

    Pierce's writing style in The Afterlives is described as smart, funny, and imaginative, with a focus on the profound aspects of the novel, particularly regarding what happens after death. The narrative skillfully navigates between the mundane activities of daily life and the metaphysical questions surrounding existence, offering a thought-provoking exploration of life, death, and the unknown realms beyond.


  7. #7

    Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
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    'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Ryland Grace, a man who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or why he is there. He soon discovers that he is on a mission to save humanity from an alien infestation that is consuming the sun. The book combines elements of suspense, science, and adventure as Ryland navigates challenges, solves scientific problems, and forms unexpected alliances with alien lifeforms to unravel the mystery and find a solution to save Earth.

    The writing style of 'Project Hail Mary' is described as fast-paced, humorous, and engaging. The author, Andy Weir, expertly weaves scientific details into the narrative, making complex concepts accessible and adding credibility to the mind-bending events in the story. The book alternates between present-time events on the spaceship and flashbacks that provide background information, creating a well-balanced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    What’s going on? I want to find out, but I don’t have much to work with. I can’t see. I can’t hear anything other than the computer. I can’t even feel. No, that’s not true. I feel something. I’m lying...

  8. #8

    Hummingbird Salamander by Jeff VanderMeer
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    In 'Hummingbird Salamander' by Jeff VanderMeer, the story follows Jane Smith, a security consultant who receives a mysterious note and key from an eco terrorist named Silvina, leading her to a storage locker containing a taxidermied hummingbird. As Jane delves deeper into the clues left by Silvina, she uncovers a dark conspiracy that puts her in danger, testing her both physically and mentally. The novel is described as a twisty eco thriller with a noir vibe, blending intrigue, climate ecology awareness, and a sense of impending doom as the world around Jane begins to unravel.

    The narrative of 'Hummingbird Salamander' is intricately woven, with complex characters and a carefully plotted storyline that keeps the tension high as the action unfolds. The writing style is praised for its unique twist on the thriller genre, offering a blend of mystery, suspense, and a reflection on society's treatment of nature. The protagonist, Jane Smith, is depicted as a strong and capable woman, physically and mentally, who navigates a dangerous world filled with unseen enemies and dark conspiracies, ultimately leading to a series of revelations that challenge her perceptions of reality and morality.

    [1] I went to the address in the note because I didn’t want to go to work. The car came for me, dark and chrome and sleek, its shadow leaking across the windows of fast-food places, gas stations, and ...

  9. #9

    The Deluge by Stephen Markley
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    The Deluge by Stephen Markley is a highly political and activist novel that delves into the societal impacts of climate change in a near-future setting. The book follows a diverse cast of characters facing the unraveling of society due to climate change, religious fanaticism, and political extremism. Markley's writing style includes newspaper/magazine articles and notes within the text, showcasing his compassion for the characters and his skill as a novelist. The novel is described as a warning about the state of our world and the urgent need for action.


  10. #10

    The Weight of the Stars by K. Ancrum
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    The Weight of the Stars by K. Ancrum follows the story of Ryann Bird, a high school student who becomes the legal guardian of her brother, James, after their parents' death. Living in a rundown trailer park, Ryann is known for her edgy personality and leadership of a misfit group at school. When she befriends the guarded new student, Alexandria, their lives are forever changed by Alexandria's family history. The novel focuses on overcoming obstacles and thriving despite challenging circumstances, with a strong emphasis on character development and emotional depth.

    The writing style of The Weight of the Stars is described as simple yet beautiful, with fleshed-out characters and world-building that immerses readers in a captivating story. The slow burn romance and unexpected plot twists contribute to the overall appeal of the book, making it a compelling read that balances emotional depth with hopeful moments and impactful storytelling.

    A little past the baseball diamonds, behind the building, there was a huge hill. There were a lot of places to meet in the city, but this was the only one close enough to get to between classes withou...

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