Dystopian Novel, Antumbra By Paul Merryfellow, Explores The Lure Of The Übercube

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Paul Merryfellow’s Antumbra explores the chilling consequences of technological perfection and the erosion of human freedom in a dystopian future reminiscent of 1984 and Fahrenheit 451.

 

Antumbra

Step into the ÜberCube in Paul Merryfellow’s debut novel, Antumbra, a dystopian world where technology reigns supreme. In this seemingly perfect society, every need is met through artificial systems, leaving Angela questioning the cracks in this façade.

When her closest friend vanishes under mysterious circumstances, Angela embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the hidden truths behind the ÜberCube’s administration. Merryfellow’s gripping narrative explores the consequences of technological advancement at the expense of human connection, drawing parallels to today’s world of casual cruelty and dispassionate governance.

With shades of classic dystopian novels, Antumbra brilliantly examines the tension between personal autonomy and the seductive allure of a controlled existence. In the ÜberCube, everyone enjoys lavish social gatherings, nutritious food, fulfilling jobs, and the convenience of personal helpers. Yet, for Angela, this seemingly perfect world feels increasingly alien.

As she delves deeper into the mystery surrounding her friend’s disappearance, Angela confronts the horrifying reality of her existence and the ultimate question: can she ever break free from the ÜberCube’s control?

Paul Merryfellow

I’ve always been fascinated by dystopian literature, and I believe we’re living through a critical moment where the balance between technology and humanity is being tested.

With the novel, I wanted to explore the unsettling shift in modern society. I’ve noticed that efficiency, automation, and artificial happiness are becoming more valued than personal freedom and human compassion. Through Angela’s journey, I hoped to address tough questions about leadership, what it means to control a populace, and the role of empathy in a world increasingly dominated by process and profit. In the end, ‘Antumbra’ is about the fight for humanity – what it means to be free and to truly live, not just exist.

-Paul Merryfellow

Paul Merryfellow is a British-Irish author and software engineer based in London. His lifelong passion for science fiction began with Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan and was fueled by a love of dystopian literature.

Paul wrote his first computer program at the tender age of seven and his debut novel, Antumbra, at 43. Combining his technical expertise with his storytelling passion, he crafted a compelling exploration of a world on the brink. Influenced by literary giants like Ray Bradbury, Aldous Huxley, Philip K. Dick, and Douglas Adams, Merryfellow’s narrative style blends dark, dystopian themes with a keen understanding of the human condition.

Beyond writing, Paul is a dedicated archer and linguist with a penchant for good coffee and charming canine companions. Antumbra marks the beginning of his journey as a novelist, inviting readers to delve into a thought-provoking and dystopian world.

Find more from Paul Merryfellow now:

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eVOa3W

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