As someone who revels in the thrills of science fiction and fantasy, I was immediately drawn to Presence, especially after learning it won the 2025 American Bookfest award for Best Science-Fiction Cyberpunk novel. The premise of Abigail Stone, a character grappling with the aftermath of a revolutionary group’s demise while entering a world brimming with myths and monsters, instantly piqued my interest. I was eager to see how these complex themes would unfold.
From the very first chapter, I found myself immersed in a richly developed world. The author successfully crafts a plot that is complex and intricate, much deeper than the synopsis suggests. Abigail’s encounters with the band of thieves lead her on a journey where the line between ally and enemy blurs—this thematic layering reminded me of some of my favorite tales. The character development is another highlight; as I navigated through the story, I felt a genuine connection to the characters. Each of them is imbued with depth, often revealing surprising facets of their personalities which, as noted by other readers, adds to the evolving narrative.
One aspect that I found particularly satisfying was the pacing. The story flows smoothly, and it never felt rushed, even with all the intricate details. The end is gratifying, wrapping up the current arc without relying on cliffhangers, which I greatly appreciated. The long epilogue adds a cherry on top, making the resolution all the more fulfilling.
However, like any debut, the book isn’t without its shortcomings. Some readers, including KaylaKaze, pointed out a few technical flaws in the writing style—it could get clunky at times, and the exposition occasionally felt a bit off. I noticed this occasionally myself but found it didn’t significantly detract from the overall experience. While the world-building was generally excellent, I wished for a touch more clarity regarding certain abilities wielded by supernatural characters; a little mystery adds charm, but I felt a deeper engagement would have benefitted the narrative.
Another takeaway from my reading experience is the romance, which takes a backseat to the main storyline. While I enjoy a solid romance, I found it refreshing that the author didn’t force this element, as mentioned in reviews. The subtlety allowed the plot to flourish, making the romantic moments feel genuine instead of obligatory.
Despite these minor flaws, Presence is a compelling introduction to what I hope will become a memorable series. As noted by multiple reviewers, the engagements are engaging and often peppered with surprising twists that keep you guessing. I left the story yearning for more while also excited about the potential of where the sequel may lead.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Presence to anyone who enjoys immersive stories filled with action, character depth, and intricate world-building. While it may not be perfect, the journey it offers is well worth the read. It’s a formidable debut, and I can confidently say that it marks the beginning of an exciting series—one I’m eager to follow. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or just dipping your toes into this dynamic world, Presence deserves a spot on your reading list.