Nullform #4

Written by Dem Mikhailov

Narrated by Jeffrey Kafer

If you are at the very bottom, you should not be thinking about hanging on tight so as not to fall any further, but about climbing higher. Step by step, but higher. There is no other way in this cruel world.

Elb and his team know this, and their path leads upwards, towards those who look down on Drainagetown from a height and spit on the heads of its inhabitants. They call themselves the Spiders, and they do not allow strangers into their domain. Yet if your timing is right, it is possible to take a sure step upwards. Mind you, it is only a step, for Elb is not planning to stop. His aim is to discover the secrets of this world and understand why he was created.

Memories. They are coming back to our hero more frequently now, with snatches of his past life, but so far with no answers to his questions. Yet come what may, Elb will get his answers, and he will go to any lengths to achieve his aim. And those who stand in his way will drown in their own blood.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Translator: Colin Parker
• Release date: Jan 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9781666140866

Reviews for Nullform #4

[Madhav Deshpande · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

"Nullform #4" by Dem Mikhailov is the fourth entry in the series, but unfortunately, it fails to bring fresh ideas and innovation to the table. Instead, it treads familiar ground without offering substantial advancements in plot or character development.

The narrative in "Nullform #4" continues the ongoing story, but it lacks the necessary momentum to push the series forward. The plot feels repetitive, recycling similar conflicts and situations without introducing new and engaging elements. This stagnation can leave readers feeling unfulfilled, as the story fails to captivate and surprise them with fresh twists and turns.

Character development also suffers in this installment. The protagonists and supporting characters show minimal growth or evolution, making it challenging to form strong connections or become emotionally invested in their journeys. Their actions and motivations often feel predictable and lack depth, leaving readers craving more complexity and substance.

When compared to its contemporaries in the genre, such as "Snow Crash" by Neal Stephenson or "Neuromancer" by William Gibson, "Nullform #4" falls short in terms of pushing the boundaries of cyberpunk literature and delivering a truly immersive experience. The world-building feels underdeveloped, and the exploration of complex themes related to technology and society lacks depth and originality.

Mikhailov's writing style remains competent but fails to inject the necessary energy and innovation into the narrative. The prose lacks a distinctive voice, and the dialogue can be clunky and uninspiring at times. The pacing of the story can also be uneven, with certain sections dragging on while others feel rushed, further contributing to a sense of dissatisfaction.

In conclusion, "Nullform #4" by Dem Mikhailov disappoints with its lack of innovation and forward momentum. The narrative treads familiar ground without offering substantial advancements in plot or character development. With its repetitive nature and underdeveloped world-building, it fails to stand out among its contemporaries in the genre. While the series may still hold potential, this particular installment leaves much to be desired and may leave readers longing for more originality and progression in future entries.