3 out of 4 stars
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The Last City of America by Matthew Tysz is a science fiction novel that creates a situation describing the possible consequences of a man-made virus that has devastated the population of the United States.
The virus has killed off large portions of the citizenship. Those who have survived have been moved into seven remaining cities. Some of these cities have rulers who are tyrants. They make life miserable for the inhabitants and they live without hope. Many prefer to live lonely lives instead of reaching out to form relationships with others. Providing food for families is a daily struggle.
The setting of the story changes between the seven remaining cities. Some want to destroy the main city and others want to join together to form a single city. Of course, these cities would not be recognized because of the wars and sickness that have destroyed them.
The author does a good job of using conversation to reveal information and move the story forward. I found that for the most part the mood of the story was dark and fatalistic. The characters were afraid of the disease, their rulers and impending war. There is also a power struggle between the different rulers. Nevertheless, in the midst of all this gloom, there is also a love story that develops with its own twists and unexpected events.
I felt there were several themes that were not well explained. A powerful character appears who seems to have magical powers. His powers seem to come and go. There are also some strange creatures with superhuman strength. Where do they come from? Who controls them? The doctor who has been the keeper of the information about the virus suddenly decides not to rebuild his lab and continue his experiments.
This book, although in some areas carried to the extreme, makes the reader think and reflect. How do people react in a crisis? How would I react? How do people handle power? Would I participate in a revolution to overthrow a leader? Would I be able to protect and provide for my family in a disaster? A good book goes beyond the pages and penetrates the layers of the mind.
I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars. The unfinished themes left me frustrated. I also thought that too many of the characters appeared for a short time before they met their demise. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy science fiction, fantasy and suspense.
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The Last City of America
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