Partials by Dan Wells

Overall Rating: 8/10

This novel presents a terrifying dystopian future in which nearly all Earth’s population has already been wiped out through a series of wars and a deadly epidemic of a mysterious virus named RM which looks set to soon cause the complete extinction of the human race. Protagonist Kira Walker, a post-apocalypse “plague baby”, and a bright, capable virologist hopes to solve the puzzle of RM which would allow newborn humans to survive more than a few hours after birth, and thus save the human race, but there are many forces at play – some of which are more interested in maintaining their rule and control of society through martial law than they are in a cure. Kira faces some life-altering decisions in her quest to save humanity, including potential treason as well as risking her life and those of her friends. Adventure, intrigue and thrills galore fill this page-turner of a novel.

Faced-paced action that builds from the start and never lets up; it keeps you engaged and the pages turning. The characters are as interesting as the setting, and both seem realistic. However, at times the narrow escapes and unlikely plot twists require more of a “suspension of disbelief” than I would normally grant most authors. It seems to stretch credulity to the breaking point and sometimes beyond. Furthermore – and this may seem to be nitpicking to some, but exasperating for readers familiar with firearms - the author really ought to get these things right. It’s a magazine, not a clip, and that’s just one example among several instances of inaccurate info.

If you like a good science fiction novel, especially one with a really different vision of a dystopian future, combined with plenty of thrills and chills this novel is right up your alley. If you are politically aware and enjoy a good social commentary you will also enjoy this novel, particularly in relation to what is happening in our society right now. If too many unlikely escapes from near-death causes disbelief in you as a reader, you may find this story goes just a bit too far, as many main characters seem to be part cat: they apparently have nine lives. Nevertheless, it was an interesting and engaging read AND social commentary.

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Reviewed by Mr. Tim.