Title: The Intrepid Three
Authors: Brianna and Matthew Pinfold
Publisher: köehlerbooks
ISBN: 978-1-64663-979-3
Pages: 136
Genre: Science Fiction
Reviewed by: Margie Przybylski
Pacific Book Review
The Intrepid Three by Brianna and Matthew Pinfold is a gripping and thought-provoking dystopian novel which paints a bleak picture of a world dominated by a heartless corporation and the struggles of the people who live in it.
The story is set in Euporia, a city covered in concrete, glass, and steel, where the sun rarely makes an appearance and the smog hangs heavy in the air. The main character, Dez Gibbous, is a fifteen-year-old who works as a coder for E-Corp, a powerful corporation that values productivity above all else. The novel vividly portrays the dehumanizing effects of corporate control on society, where employees are reduced to mere numbers and judged solely on their productivity ratings. The authors create a hauntingly realistic world where the pursuit of profit has taken precedence over basic human values and compassion.
Dez’s struggles are relatable and heart-wrenching. She is burdened not only by the pressure to meet the expectations of her demanding job but also by her parents’ deteriorating health due to the chronic disease of Euporian Exhaustion. The authors skillfully highlight the physical and emotional toll of the oppressive work culture on the characters, and the reader is drawn into Dez’s fight for survival and her quest for a better life for herself and her family.
The writing style is engaging and fast-paced, with well-crafted descriptions that bring the dystopian world to life. The authors effectively use dialogue and internal monologue to reveal the characters’ motivations and emotions, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs. The novel also raises important social and ethical questions about the impact of corporate control on society, the value of human life in a profit-driven world, and the power dynamics between the rich and the poor.
Another beautiful detail of this book is that it was written by a married couple. Brianna and Matthew worked on this book together – each bringing their own talents and background experiences. It is clear this book is a labor of their love and many hours of teamwork were poured into it.The Intrepid Three is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers reflecting on the consequences of unchecked corporate power and the importance of human connection in a dehumanizing world. The well-drawn characters, vivid settings, and engaging writing style make it a captivating read. Fans of dystopian fiction and social commentary will find this book a thought-provoking addition to the genre. Overall, The Intrepid Three is a gripping and powerful read that will stay with readers long after they turn the last page.
