Cyberpunk, with its rich, dystopian backdrops and intricate web of corporate greed, has often served as a mirror to our societal anxieties. Jon McGoran’s upcoming novel, *The Price of Everything*, set for release next year, emerges from this kaleidoscopic tradition, entwining themes of loyalty, survival, and the grim realities of a world dominated by ruthless corporations. This exciting thriller invites readers to delve into a future where the stakes are high, and the cost of failure could prove deadly.
At the heart of McGoran’s narrative is Armand Pierce, a veteran courier whose life revolves around the oath he took a decade ago: “the delivery is everything.” This principle encapsulates the essence of the Couriers Guild, an organization that operates outside conventional boundaries, offering a precarious line of hope in a world where digital networks have crumbled. Pierce’s unique attachment—a titanium cuff integrated into his wrist bone—symbolizes his unyielding commitment, both to his work and to the dark underbelly of a fractured society.
Set against a backdrop of societal collapse following the Cyber Wars, the novel immerses us in a realm where two powerful forces collide: the scrappy survival of individuals like Pierce and the relentless pursuit of profit by corporations. This dichotomy heightens the tension as Pierce confronts not just the physical challenges of his job, but also the moral dilemmas posed by a world where trust is fleeting, and death is a too-common consequence of misplaced allegiance. As he embarks on a mission to locate a missing payload crucial to his survival, we learn that Pierce’s journey is paved with peril. His struggles reflect the broader chaos of a disintegrating world, mirroring the struggles many face in today’s society.
The discovery that his payload is missing spins the narrative into a thrilling mystery. Coupled with the eerie fact that three couriers have already lost their lives in similar circumstances, the stakes have escalated for Pierce. McGoran crafts a layered plot that entices readers with questions that tug at their curiosity: Why has the delivery gone awry? Who can be trusted? As Pierce races against time, we witness his transformation from a single courier into a symbol of resilience.
Accompanied by an eye-catching cover designed by James Macey at Black Sheep, *The Price of Everything* captures a visual essence that aligns with the narrative’s futuristic setting. This artwork not only tempts avid readers but also encapsulates the overarching themes of tension and urgency infiltrating the story. Each element—from the metallic sheen of the courier’s attachment to the shadows of the city—frames a compelling aesthetic that enhances the absorbing narrative.
With its rich thematic elements and the pulse-racing journey of Armand Pierce, *The Price of Everything* promises to be a thrilling addition to the cyberpunk canon. As McGoran explores the intertwining of personal integrity and corporate machinations, readers can expect a riveting tale that probes the price we pay for loyalty in a world that feels increasingly dystopian. The anticipation builds for this novel, which not only engages with a futuristic landscape but also reflects upon current realities, reminding us that in a world where everything is for sale, the value of trust remains the most elusive currency.