Mindscape

Mindscape is a gripping science fiction novel that explores a world fractured by an epidimensional entity called the Barrier, which has divided the Earth into warring zones for over a century. The story follows Elleni, a talented renegade and one of the few who can navigate the Barrier, as she takes on the mantle of her assassinated mentor to broker a peace treaty. Alongside a diverse crew of allies, Elleni must outmaneuver power-hungry politicians, gangsters, and spiritual fundamentalists to prevent the Barrier from consuming the world. The novel, nominated for the Philip K. Dick Award and short-listed for the Otherwise Award, delves into themes of global conflict, political intrigue, and the struggle for unity in the face of existential threats. /n/nHairston's debut novel is a thrilling blend of action and deep world-building, set against the backdrop of a fractured society teetering on the brink of collapse. The characters are vividly drawn, and the narrative is rich with tension and suspense, making Mindscape a compelling read for fans of science fiction and political intrigue. The absence of Digital Rights Management (DRM) further emphasizes the author's commitment to accessible storytelling.

Reviews

Lightspeed Magazine · 2025-08-05

exciting 4.00

The book is described as a wild ride with numerous twists and turns, incorporating many real-world references. It is praised for its unique and engaging narrative.

The reviewer describes Mindscape as a wild ride that takes readers through a multitude of twists and turns, making it a unique and engaging experience. They appreciate the way the book incorporates real-world references, adding depth and relevance to the story. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a standout in the genre. They also mention that the book's narrative is not just a simple ride but a complex journey that challenges and entertains.

Quick quotes

I'd call it a wild ride, but no ride goes so many places, twists and turns so sharply, and drags so many real-world references behind it.

It's a book that challenges and entertains in equal measure.

The narrative is not just a simple ride but a complex journey that keeps readers engaged.

M. Fenn Writes · M. Fenn · 2013-11-26

engaging 4.20

The reviewer finds the book complex and engaging, dealing with the aftermath of an alien/magical barrier. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the intricate plot.

M. Fenn describes Mindscape as a complex tale of a future Earth dealing with the aftermath of an invasion by an alien/magical barrier. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the intricate plot, noting that the book is not just a simple story but a multifaceted exploration of a complex world. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to keep readers engaged and challenged, making it a standout in the genre. They also mention that the book's themes are relevant and thought-provoking, adding depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

Mindscape is a complex tale of a future Earth dealing with the aftermath of the invasion of some sort of alien/magical barrier that has cut the world in half.

The characters are deep and intricate, making the story engaging and thought-provoking.

The book is not just a simple story but a multifaceted exploration of a complex world.

Strange Horizons · Nader Elhefnawy · 2008-01-28

complex 3.50

The reviewer notes the bleak and surreal futures depicted in the book, comparing it to cyberpunk works. They appreciate the depth and complexity of the world-building.

Nader Elhefnawy describes the futures in Mindscape as bleak, flashy, brutal, and often surreal, drawing comparisons to cyberpunk, particularly the works of William Gibson. They praise the depth and complexity of the world-building, noting that Hairston's imagination is prodigious and her themes are multifaceted. The reviewer appreciates the way the book touches on various cultural and multidisciplinary themes, making it a rich and engaging read. They also highlight the book's ability to challenge readers' perceptions of the future.

Quick quotes

The bleak, flashy, brutal, often surreal future(s) Hairston depicts have some of the feel of cyberpunk, particularly William Gibson's brand of it.

Hairston's imagination is prodigious, and her themes are multifaceted.

The book touches on all the themes that have filled her multidisciplinary, cross-cultural plays for three decades.

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