Kill Code

by

Clive Fleury

Short, energetic, and entertaining! A complete cinematic dystopian science fiction novel!

Kill Code is an entertaining dystopian science fiction novel by Clive Fleury, set in the not-too-distant future after global warming has so affected our world that the economy has collapsed, unemployment is widespread, and the government is all that stands between us and complete chaos. Hogan Duran, former military and law enforcement, gets a coveted invitation to compete for a place as an officer in the National Security Council (NSC), the governmental organization that maintains law and order and several high-profile social service projects, such as providing meals for the many residents who would otherwise starve to death. He knows the selection process is tough, and because he’s older than the other candidates, his age seen as a handicap; his chances of prevailing are slim. However, with his high desire to succeed and life experiences, Hogan may have exactly what the NSC needs. Once onsite, the competition is fierce and carried out in virtual reality. However, the reputation of what the NSC is and what they do may prove no more real than the VR simulations. 

Hogan Duran is an engaging underdog, and I enjoyed rooting for him and watching him regain his confidence and desire to win. He took on a lot of guilt for his partner’s career-ending injuries when a police officer, which led to him relinquishing his own promising career in L.A. He’s a compassionate man who takes in his former partner when he hits rock bottom due to a gambling addiction, and this caring trait carries with him all the way through the story. He is joined in his quest to become the next NSC officer by Ruby Mason, also former military, and although they are competing for the same spot, they maintain an honorable rivalry, unlike the situation with another strong candidate, Jake Teerman. 

The novel is fairly short, at under 150 pages, so the action gets going early. The selection process and events at the NSC training compound are suspenseful because of their competitive nature and constant eliminations of candidates, but also because criminal marauders loom outside, watching and plotting to take over the base and its supplies. Several plot twists really surprised me and kept me glued to the story. I thought the author did a great job crafting this dystopian version of our world and society in a short time, and I would have been even happier if the novel were longer. I’d love a sequel! 

I recommend KILL CODE to readers who enjoy dystopian/post-apocalyptic science fiction. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.