The Woman on the Ferry by Athene Z. Adam

Captivating, original, and layered with meaningful mystery, The Woman on the Ferry by Athene Z. Adam is a thought-provoking dystopian thriller. In this fictional world of telekinesis, mind-reading, prophecy, and state surveillance, having superhuman powers is nothing special, but stumbling across hope and love under authoritarian oppression is a rare and precious thing, illustrating the vitality of freedom in any setting.

Still recovering from spotty memory loss after a recent trauma, Veila has been volunteering at a women’s center, begrudgingly accepting help from her manipulative mother, and trying to stay on the good side of the omnipresent Authority. That all changes when a charming clairvoyant named Aster boldly saves her in the street, then keeps her one step ahead of the merciless Enforcers as they descend on her “corrupted” life. With their futures suddenly tied, Veila and Aster find themselves on the run, employing their formidable powers to escape Epyrit Island, avoid the grim fate of other rebel Readers, and figure out why the Authority seems hell-bent on silencing them both for good.

Adam’s world-building is subtle and brilliant, carried out in casual asides, flashbacks, and conversational exposition that draws readers into the creative yet eerily familiar setting. Not only does the prose shine with believable emotion and visceral character connection, but the thematic commentary on police states, prejudicial thinking, and the power of community feels relevant and essential.

Edited to an impressive polish, this novel strikes a perfect balance of dystopian drama, sci-fi action, and clear-eyed social critique.