Review of The Digital Plague by Jeff Somers . . . Posted 20 April, 2009

The Digital Plague by Jeff Somers 330 pages published by Orbit, An imprint of the Little Brown Book Group, ISBN 978 1 84149 704 4 Reviewed by David Kernot Book reviews index

Set in a brave new world plagued with doubt, not too far from our own, Avery Cates struggles to be a free man.

THIS IS AN ASSASSINATION. NOT YOURS. BUT AN ASSASSINATION NONE THE LESS.

These words encapsulate the story in a nutshell. It's full on and doesn't let up for its entire 330 pages of nail-biting story. I enjoyed every page and thought it compelling and easy reading.

The book has a language all its own, but it is easy to follow and very entertaining to read. In a world full of Techies, Monks, and Stormers, I found a twist at every corner. Avery Cates, destroyer of the world, struggles to hold onto his own and dish out his brand of humanity to live another day. Delve into a post unification world where technology rules and weapons are supreme, and you'll find Avery Cates and a collection of crooks and law enforcement types alike.

The beginning set the pace and scene of the whole book, and as I said, never let up. The ending was crisp and did not disappoint. The word "gritty" comes to mind. The language is raw at times, profound in contrast to the story and not overdone - and if you are not an overly sensitive type about language then you will enjoy this tale immensely. If you are, try turning a blind eye and enjoy the story for what it is. I would say this is a mature teen or adult story.

When I finished I found myself wanting more. I really wanted the mystery of Hense to be unraveled and I suspect that there may be more to her than has yet been explained. I felt sorry for Ty Kieth, caught up in a world not of his making. The story was filled with so much subterfuge and surprise in every chapter that it is hard to talk about without giving too much away. I want to find out about Avery, and there's another book around the corner. Enjoyable: yes. Want to read more: absolutely.

I had not read Jeff Somers' earlier book, The Electric Church, but I found that it didn't impede this story - maybe The Digital Plague would have been even more enjoyable than its already was if I had. I will certainly go and hunt down The Electric Church.

I am officially a fan of Avery Cates, and of course will look out for more work from the author Jeff Somers, who did a great job. Well done. Buy it if you get the chance.



Reviewed by David Kernot