Book Review: Zero Marginal Value by Jason Cole

Zero Marginal Value by Jason Cole is a well written dive into a cyberpunk like world that grips you from the first page. Set in a techno-dystopian future where every action is monitored and privacy is a thing of the past, the novel draws eerie parallels to our own society, making it both a thrilling read and a cautionary tale of what our future could be.

Cole's worldbuilding is good, creating vivid imagery of a world where runaway capitalism has turned society into a surveillance state constantly regulated and controlled by faceless AIs. The atmosphere reminded me a bit of the Deus Ex series, with its blend of high-tech environments and a society on the brink of collapse under the weight of its own systems. Every corner of this world is saturated with the tension of being constantly watched, a reality where corporations wield more power than governments, controlling not just the economy but the very lives of the people.

It paints a stark picture of a future where corporate greed has reached its zenith, and personal freedoms have been sacrificed at the altar of profit and efficiency. This aspect of the novel also brings to mind the Syndicate video games, where corporate espionage and shadowy dealings are the norm, further enriching the novel's sense of intrigue and danger.

Cole's pacing is well done, delivering a well-balanced mix of action and introspection. The story moves at a fairly brisk pace, but not at the expense of character development. The protagonists are well-fleshed-out, with their motivations and backstories adding depth to the narrative. Each character feels real and integral to the story, enhancing the reader's investment in their journey through this bleak world.

However, the novel isn't without its flaws. A few spelling and grammar errors occasionally pull you out of the otherwise immersive experience. While these issues are minor, they are noticeable and detract slightly from the overall polish of the book.

Despite these small quibbles, Zero Marginal Value is a highly recommended read for fans of cyberpunk and science fiction. Cole has crafted a story that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, offering a sobering look at where our current trajectory might lead. It’s a novel that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page, making it well worth your time.