Knight in Paper Armor by Nicholas Conley
Billy Jakobek has always been different. Born with strange and powerful psychic abilities, he has grown up in the laboratories of Thorne Century, a ruthless megacorporation that economically, socially, and politically dominates American society. Every day, Billy absorbs the emotional energies, dreams, and traumas of everyone he meets—from his grandmother’s memories of the Holocaust, to the terror his sheer existence inflicts upon his captors—and he yearns to break free, so he can use his powers to help others.
Natalia Gonzalez, a rebellious artist and daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, lives in Heaven’s Hole, an industrial town built inside a meteor crater, where the poverty-stricken population struggles to survive the nightmarish working conditions of the local Thorne Century factory. Natalia takes care of her ailing mother, her grandmother, and her two younger brothers, and while she dreams of escape, she knows she cannot leave her family behind.
When Billy is transferred to Heaven’s Hole, his chance encounter with Natalia sends shockwaves rippling across the blighted landscape. The two outsiders are pitted against the all-powerful monopoly, while Billy experiences visions of an otherworldly figure known as the Shape, which prophesizes an apocalyptic future that could decimate the world they know.
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About the Author
Nicholas Conley is an award-winning Jewish American author, journalist, playwright, and coffee vigilante. His books, such as Knight in Paper Armor, Pale Highway, Clay Tongue: A Novelette, and Intraterrestrial, merge science fiction narratives with hard-hitting examinations of social issues. Originally from California, he now lives in New Hampshire.
My Review
4 stars
Billy Jakobek has a powerful special ability. Unfortunately a greedy man has found him and is planning on using him as a weapon. Natalia Gonzalez is an immigrant’s daughter that is struggling to survive along with her grandmother, mother, and twin brothers in a little town called Heaven’s Hole.
In Heaven’s Hole there is a factory that all the immigrant’s work in under horrible conditions. While not at work many face abuse from their white neighbors. Natalia dreams of leaving Heaven’s Hole but when she meets Billy he turns her world on end. She learns of the dark secrets of those that own the factory and is determined to stop them and save Billy.
This story touches on some events that we are facing in today’s world. Billy is a wonderful person and it is just heartbreaking what he goes through. Natalia is a strong young lady that goes through her own issues. She doesn’t let them stop her, instead they strengthen her resolve.
I really liked this story; there is lots of action, betrayal, and a sweet romance. It is one that I recommend checking out. There is a great paranormal twist that really adds to the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
I would like to thank Nicholas Conley for the opportunity to read and share his book.
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