Cryo

by Blake Fisher

Genre: Young Adult / Science Fiction

ISBN: 9780578356358

Print Length: 310 pages

A chilling glimpse of a seemingly serene society with very dark secrets

Blake Fisher’s “Cryo” is an impressive start to what could potentially become an enthralling science fiction series.

This novel is divided into three distinct parts. In Part One, we are introduced to Louis King, a professor at the University of Nebraska by day and a struggling writer by night. It takes place in the year 2024.

Louis leads a comfortable life with Violet, the love of his life. However, after a car accident on his way home from the first day of a new semester, Louis discovers that he has an aggressive, cancerous tumor with no available cure, only palliative care. Upon Violet’s request, Louis decides to undergo cryogenic freezing and preservation.

“I could handle the idea of dying. After all, everyone dies. But the thought of leaving her alone in this world was almost unbearable for one person to bear.”

Over 200 years later, Louis is awakened from cryogenic sleep, only to find that the world he knew is gone. His past life is irrelevant, his loved ones are lost, and there is no place for a former professor in this new society.

Under the rule of the Emperor, the upper-class Arcadians enjoy every luxury, while the middle and lower classes are enslaved in different factions that sustain the city. As Louis adjusts to his new life and his role as a Scout for Arcadia, he faces a choice: turn a blind eye to the Emperor’s cruelty or join his friends in their quest to build a better future.

I thoroughly enjoyed “Cryo” from start to finish. The author skillfully incorporates twists and turns that keep the readers engaged, and the worldbuilding surrounding Arcadia is truly captivating. We experience the story through Louis’ perspective, gaining excellent insight into his character and motivations. The supporting characters also contribute to the richness of the world. Rose, a fellow Scout working alongside Louis, possesses a quiet demeanor and an incredible strength. I absolutely adored her. While the tone and plot may feel familiar at times, it’s important to acknowledge that certain tropes of the genre serve a purpose.

“Cryo” offers a believable glimpse into a future where a war-torn country struggles to survive. It’s safe to say that most readers will eagerly anticipate the next installment in this series.