Editorial Review: “Of Friction” by S. J. Lee

Of Friction, a science fiction novel by S. J. Lee, transports us to a dystopian world where ordinary humans and their genetically modified counterparts wage violent wars against each other. 

Review

When anthropogenic activities finally made the world uninhabitable, humans turned to genetic engineering to survive in the newer, harsh environs. However, this approach gave rise to the “Altereds”, a faction of genetically modified humans. As skirmishes between these advanced and ordinary humans increased, the United Military Federation, aka UMF, strived to control uprisings. Half-siblings Sam and Scott Ryan are assigned to leave their original posts and join Echo, another UMF team. As the team reaches the southernmost outposts to investigate the recent disturbances, they realize that the real-life scenario is direr than they imagined. Caught in a series of encounters between radical groups from each side, will Echo succeed in its mission? Find out in Of Friction, a science fiction novel by S. J. Lee. 

The most appealing aspect of the novel is that, despite featuring an action-adventure storyline, Lee prioritizes developing her characters first. Since the Echo team comprises nine members, this is no easy feat. Yet, by the end of the book, readers have a clear understanding of every member’s nature and unique quirks and can anticipate how each might behave in a given situation. The group dynamics are admirable, with excellent teamwork and mutual respect. The constant banter and easy camaraderie cover a good part of the story, making the readers thoroughly invested in their fates. 

Lee narrates the book from Sam’s perspective, allowing us further glimpses into her character, which shows considerable growth throughout the book. Indoctrinated to the UMF from a very young age, military training has engulfed her entire life, so much so that she cannot even comprehend life beyond it. Scott’s decision to leave UMF and the inputs from other Echo members create an understandable dilemma in her, for which we cannot help feeling sorry. As the story progresses, unexpected revelations from her past resurface until a point where she must process and come to terms with her childhood trauma. Lee masterfully portrays how Sam’s lifelong survivalist mindset shapes her perceptions, and we cannot help but root for this somewhat broken yet resilient girl. Sam and Scott’s unbreakable bond and unspoken understanding tug at the readers’ hearts. The unstated, barely-there romantic subplot further enamors the audience. 

Lee’s world-building with the backdrop of a dystopian society is awe-inspiring. The constant barrage of different factions and their acronyms might stymie the readers initially; however, the summary at the beginning and the glossary at the end will be helpful. The book unravels gradually, each layer adding a new conundrum to a complicated plot rife with politics, disputes, and betrayals. As the unrest grows and the conflict between different radical groups escalates to a state of all-out chaos, peace hangs precariously on a single thread. Rampant acts of violence and equally brutal retaliations plague the common folk while the higher powers keep playing diplomatic games. The difference between the actual truth and what one chooses to believe keeps growing. In many ways, Lee’s novel mirrors our current worldwide situation. 

The fight scenes and action sequences demand special mention. With nail-biting suspense and palpable tension, Lee completely hooks her readers. The book seems perfect for a movie adaptation. On top of everything, the final cliffhanger makes the readers gasp in disbelief and ensures their yearning for the sequel. With a convoluted plot, an all-too-probable dystopian world, and a strong heroine, Of Friction is a promising start to an ethralling new series. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves science fiction. 

About the Author

By day, S.J. Lee works as a foreign service specialist; at night, she enjoys gaming, taking photos, and writing. She has lived and worked in Iraq, Mexico, Chile, India, Brazil, Guyana, and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, where she currently resides with her spouse and a street dog that she rescued. Her first book, Of Friction, is the first in the Altered Earth series. For additional information, you can follow @sjleewriter on Instagram.

Book Details

• Title: Of Friction
• Author: S. J. Lee
• Genre: Science Fiction
• Theme: Dystopia, War, Action, Adventure
• Publication Date: February 20, 2024
• ISBN or ASIN: B0CPGG44BR
• Number of Pages: 404
• Minimum Audience Age:15

Book Themes

(Note: 0=none, 1=a few, 2=considerable, 3=pronounced, 4=excessive)

• Sexual themes: 3
• Religious themes: 1
• Violence, self-harm, etc.: 4
• Crude language, expletives, swearing, etc.: 3
• Other adult themes: 4

Rating

• Content: 5 stars
• Writing Style: 5 stars
• Appeal to Target Audience: 5 stars
• Uniqueness: 5 stars
• Editing: 5 stars
• Other factors: 5 stars
• Overall: 5.0 out of 5

Useful Links

• Get a copy of the book from Amazon
• Get a copy of the book from Barnes and Noble
• View the book on Goodreads

Disclaimer: The content provided by The Chrysalis BREW Project is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in our reviews and articles are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Chrysalis BREW Project. We strive for accuracy, but we cannot guarantee the completeness or reliability of the information provided. External links are for convenience and do not imply endorsement. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult professionals as needed. The use of our content is at your own discretion. Please read our full disclaimer version as well as other relevant policies, terms, and conditions on the links below for more details.

Important Reads: About Us | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Disclaimer and Disclosure

For more posts like this, here’s the link: https://thechrysalisbrewproject.com/category/bookish-posts/.