Blood in the Wires

As a prerequisite, I want to say to everyone reading this that not only did I not find anything (literally) to gripe about in this story, but I'm also the first to review it. Take that. I may give out high rates a lot, but that's because I don't review stories I don't like. This is a story I like, though.

Anyway, this is a dystopian sci-fi that focuses on the high-tech slum and ghetto vibes you see in the movies that never get much attention. It's gritty, it's edgy, it's intense, and I'm all for it.

Style - The story is told in a rare present tense perspective, and it's told exceptionally well. The author's writing style is clearly tailored and comfortable with this style of delivery, and it reads just as well as any good written past tense style. 

The present tense aesthetic really shines when it comes to the descriptions and especially the fight scenes. The wording choices are pitch perfect and give you real time imagery of how one action flows into the next, while also weaving in sensory details to augment the imagery. 

Here's a quote of one of my favorite scenes,

If this isn't an example of what a smooth fucking fight scene is then I don't know what is. I wish I was able to write like this, and will definitely be following this author's example in scenes for myself in the future. 

Story - Can't really go into details without getting into heavy spoiler territory, but I will reference you to the synopsis, as, the author says in so many words the same thing id basically say in this regard. It is a unique tale of an "on the run" type of story with all of the common elements.

It excels in the aspects of intensity, pacing, logic, and dynamic. I wasn't wanting for anything more when it came to following the plot. 

Grammar - Impeccable. Nothing to say here aside from sometimes I noticed a few extra commas than needed, but I do the same thing. So eh. 

You won't be put off by the writing at all, though. Just look at the spoiler I posted above for the proof that you need.

Characters - By far my favorite aspect of the story is the characters, especially Alice. The way she's portrayed as a street smart badass with something clearly being "off" in her head gives a strong sense of uniqueness. Every time she gets mad, or even irritated, I get the feeling that a caged beast is about to break free until her harness brings her back under control. 

She's like a lioness trapped inside of a body unable to handle her ferocity, and I love it. Her interactions with the rest in the slums, how they know her and fear her, along with other aspects make for an interesting character dynamic. Every encounter is a joy to read and hype, especially when she fights or you hear about her fights (she instantly kicks dudes in the dick if need be and it's savage af).

Side characters like the paranoid fucker are also very well done and believable, and expand on the type of environment you'd expect a web of low life's to inhabit. 

Overall the story was a very enjoyable read so far. Adding it to my list of many stories that I tend to read when I'm out in the field doing nothing IRL.