Augmented States (A Cyberpunk Saga #5) by Matthew A. Goodwin

Augmented States (A Cyberpunk Saga #5) Reviews

• 
  Madi Goodrow

  Rating: 2 Stars
  This is the fifth installment in the Cyberpunk saga. I really wanted to like this book. Just like the previous book, this book fell very flat for me. Parts of the book were drawn out that didn’t need to be as long as they were. Then the fights scenes were rushed and there were some fights which were recounted by other characters very briefly. After this book I won’t be continuing to read the series. The sad part is that I really enjoyed the first three books, the characters were dynamic, and the plot was compelling. The rest of the series is falling too flat for me to continue to read it.
  
• 
  Nac

  That was a bit different with a few unexpected twists, really good read and was hard to put down, had a cliff hanger ending, the last few chapters were a bit of an eye opener I did not see coming so it would seem there is more to come in the series.
• 
  Darth Dragonetti

  "Augmented States" is book five of Matthew A Goodwin's smashingly successful Cyberpunk Saga. If you haven't read the other books in the series, I would most definitely pick them up before you check out "Augmented States."
  
  The wild ending of book four, "Mind Hack," probably left you reeling and wanting to pick up "Augmented States" right away. Well, partner, step right up, because you are surely in for a treat. Not to spoil things, but "Augmented States" starts out with a very different flavor from the other books, and is like something out of Mad Max. I can say that at long last we finally get the curtain pulled back on the Scubas, a faction introduced in the saga very early on that has remained enshrouded in mystery. After that, the novel shifts to a plot more focused on political wrangling and intrigue. Not to worry though, because that great cyberpunk action is back as well.
  
  I continue to be impressed by Matt Goodwin's ability to conjure up new locales and ideas that keep the saga feeling fresh book after book. I particularly loved the opening of the novel with its cool setting and reveals, but also appreciated the new focus on politics and how the political arena is ultimately necessary to sustain the real kind of change Moss and his friends hope to bring about. Of course, the author still brings that sprightly pace the series is known for, so fret not. The stakes are also raised to higher and higher levels, with things reaching a fever pitch.
  
  With higher stakes comes increased pressure on our venerable heroes. With each passing book, the characters become ever better developed. The author very convincingly renders the long-term results of the stress bestowed on the cast. Little by little, their innocence is disappearing, to be replaced with a jaundiced, world-weary fatigue that, while rather tragic, is still fascinating. Relationships are strained to breaking points, caused by differing ideas on how to bring about positive change.
  
  While characterization shows a burgeoning darkness, so too does the tone of the novel itself. The book's ending is nothing short of shocking. I had to re-read parts of it to convince myself that what I had read was true. Kudos to the author for throwing some wholly unexpected story beats into the mix. I'm very curious to see where the books go from here.
  
  With "Augmented States," author Goodwin once again brings an excellent outing to the series. I am beginning to see the end game come into focus, and am totally stoked to see what the future holds for the series and its author. I am sure the future is bright for both.
• 
  Martin

  This part was a very strong mix of non-stop action and a rollercoaster of emotions. And the next part can't come soon enough.
• 
  Mr. J

  Quality cyberpunk. I do wish there was a bit more about the legwork they do (or don't do) for a mission.