3 out of 4 stars
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The Rhine is a science fiction adventure written by R.L. Dean. Factory workers are rebelling against their superiors, vowing to get safer work conditions. The corporate elite is busy scheming to get around UN law, even if it means teaming with a band of Martian terrorists with their own agenda. From space pirates to shady backroom deals, The Rhine is an action-packed story, written in smooth prose and keeps the reader questioning each character’s motivations.
The best part of this story is how Dean reflects historical events in his futuristic plot. Throughout the story, I am reminded of the industrial revolution and the speed at which technology advanced. Dean also hints towards how the earth will collapse if we continue to treat the environment the way we do. Climate change and pollution is not a key aspect of this story, the characters are not concerned with it at all. The corporate elite of the story will do anything to make another dollar. Dean has done a brilliant job connecting his story to human history as well as current events. However, I did not like the inconsistencies of the characters. Many characters are introduced as a certain type of person but their actions seem to turn on a dime and they display vastly different characteristics. Many of these changes are beneficial to the plot but some are unnecessary and cause confusion to the reader. Dean could also use another round of professional editing as I did find many simple errors in spelling and grammar.
Dean has clearly made a stand on how people will behave to make more money. Even going against their own morals and message to secure their own future. Many characters in the story will die for their cause believing they are in the right and Dean does an excellent job at showing both sides of the conflict. A concept that seems to be lost in western news.
I recommend socially conscious people and fans of science fiction pick this book up immediately. The plot if appropriate and easy to follow making it accessible to young adult readers. You will be entertained from beginning to end.
I am rating The Rhine 3 out of 4 stars. R.L. Dean has created a fun adventure and a thought-provoking reflection on society. Dean’s connections and ideas are brilliant and I will gladly give this book 4 out of 4 when the character inconsistencies and spelling mistakes are improved.
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The Rhine
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Thanks for reviewing! A bit too political for me, but it sounds like a good story for those you recommended.
