Imagine having to fight a corporation and a movement that already magnet the trust and interest of millions of people. That would definitely be an endless cycle and requires a lot of will, determination, and courage. In the battle to end a wide range of manipulation and gaining of one’s free will, who would win? The second book of the Cyberbrain series by Benoit Blanchard titled Cyberbrain: Guardian Angel brings you all the action, thrill, and encouragement that you never thought you needed.
Since this book is part of a series, then there are different elements that readers — especially those who die-hards of this one, are quite familiar with. Characters that moved the plot of the first book are on the next one trying to progress the new storyline. However, Blanchard exceptionally added new characters that enhance the quality and impact of the story.
The book was opened in Los Angeles following a teacher who is explaining what cyber is all about to her students. Then, she discovered that one of her students — or at least her father didn’t believe in it. That leads to the capturing the little girl’s dad and everything in between. The next chapters also introduces the brand-new life of the cyber-less Max and Vanessa in Canada who are working secretly with Dr. Alston to help those with cybers gain back their free will.
A defining thing in this book is that it still centers on the same science fiction trope, which is mind control through “cybers.” Although the primary aim of the antagonist is to restore the goodness of every individual infinitely, the thought of depriving them of their own free will, decisions, and rationality is undesirable. Cyberbrain: Guardian Angel, moreover, has the same consistency and style of narration, dialogue, and point of view used in its preceding book.
The first parts of manipulation executed by the mysterious character referred to as the Guardian Angel wasn’t that excellent. There were just too many instructions that lessen the tension and thrill felt by the readers, specifically on the part that he was describing the people around Dr. Alston. Blanchard, however, did a great job in showing the readers the events and other aspects of the story by using descriptive terms.
When it comes to the setting, the story is primarily set in fictional Canada and typically brings the readers in different parts of the nation, such as Montreal and Vancouver. There are chapters though that is set in the U.S. since it is where the company of the antagonists is based. As you go through the book, you can definitely see that the story is dominantly set in Canada. Those who had their “cybers” removed ran to Canada for freedom and security.
Furthermore, the book doesn’t only centers on the protagonist’s quest to perform successful surgery for cyber removal but also tackles timely political aspects. It highlights how many politicians partner with big corporations for fame, money, and trust even if it means compromising the safety of the public. The political campaign of Lane is the primary bridge that connects Kobayashi and the goals of Cyberbrain together. The first parts of the plot just focus on the mystery caller and the black mailing of Alston, which gradually dulled the light of the true nature and intention of Kobayashi.
For those who are into science fiction and wants to discover a new series, then you might want to check out Benoit Blanchard’s Cyberbrain series. From the book one to this book 2, you will definitely satisfy your sci-fi cravings and get enough drive to turn each page.