In Ora

In Ora takes place in a dystopian future. In this future there are two nations, Ora, where genetic engineering prevails, there is a race of super tall and intelligent humans, and Origin, where humans are, well, more natural. 

The differences between the two nations continue from there. Ora has a sophisticated healthcare system, at least for those who can afford it, and naturally the protagonist of the story cannot. However, another option is presented to him: be a subject to an experiment and in exchange, your friend will be treated. This is the dilemma presented to Luke, the main character. 

He seeks treatment for Ruyi, a friend/love interest. The two start their relationship rather platonically. Luke saves Ruyi from three attackers and after some slightly awkward encounters with each other (Ruyi may have thought Luke was homeless), and they become inseparable.  

As the book progresses, so does their relationship. The pair faces all kinds of obstacles, from Ruyi’s health, to other suitors trying to wedge themselves between them. 

The story really picks up pace in the final third of the book, as the action of the story crescendos into its exciting conclusion. One can argue, the book is exposition but until this point, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion. Indeed, the book uses a history book within to provide flashbacks to the creation of Ora and Origin.

At times, I think the writing wasn't quite as punchy as I had hoped. Trigger warning as this next scene is quite gruesome. 

A man attempted to rape a women. Luke stops him and beats him, but not to death. Luke returns to find the man gone. Another man, Arthur, is there and explains that “he[the would-be rapist] will not repeat what he did…” I think that could be a good ending to the scene, perhaps with one other clue as to the would-be-raper’s fate. Rather, Arthur continues to say, “I castrated him”. The author does a much better job building up this scene than my clumsy retelling. My point though, was I think the last comment rather over explains the situation. Leaving this strongly implied rather than explicitly stated results in a better scene.

Overall the future portrayed is interesting, the characters good and the book enjoyable. The pacing is a bit slow at times, but I really enjoyed the last 3rd of the book. 

Perspective: 3rd person

Tense: Simple Past

Length: 419 pages

Kindle Unlimited: Yes

https://www.amazon.com/Ora-Land-Superior-Sotto-Voce-ebook/dp/B09HGZC1RM