In a dystopian world controlled by corporations, a former special forces soldier seeks revenge after his wife is murdered, leading him into the dark underworld of Tokyo. As he navigates a society of cybernetic gladiators and corporate power, he uncovers the truth behind his wife's death and faces the ultimate test of loyalty and identity.

Reader Review Summary

Based on the information provided, here is a thorough review of the book "Mrok nad Tokyoramą" by Robert J. Szmidt, focusing on the positive aspects:

"Mrok nad Tokyoramą" is a gripping cyberpunk novel that immerses readers in a richly imagined, post-apocalyptic world of the year 2077. Szmidt has crafted a fascinating future where global warming and environmental catastrophes have forced humanity to seek refuge in massive, corporate-controlled metropolises. This dark, cyberpunk setting is vividly realized, blending high-tech marvels with a gritty, lawless underbelly that draws inevitable comparisons to the iconic Cyberpunk 2077 video game.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its fully realized world-building. Szmidt spins an intricate tale of a society stratified into rigid castes, where megacorporations have supplanted nations and rule with an iron fist, aided by ruthless gangs. This oppressive atmosphere is counterbalanced by the thrilling spectacle of Che-do, a futuristic sport that fuses chess with brutal martial arts, providing a unique backdrop for the story's gladiatorial clashes.

The protagonist, Rafał Tymura, is a compelling anti-hero – a Polish-Japanese former special forces soldier seeking vengeance after his wife's murder. Tymura's gritty determination and dark humor make him an instantly likable character to root for as he navigates the criminal underworld of Tokyorama, undergoing cyborgization and forging a new identity in pursuit of retribution. His journey keeps the pages turning, and readers will find themselves invested in his quest for answers and justice.

While some reviewers found the initial pacing slow, the action ramps up significantly from the 20th chapter onwards, delivering intense, visceral action sequences that showcase Szmidt's skill at blending cyberpunk tech with bone-crunching combat. The Che-do arena battles are particular highlights, combining cerebral strategy with breathtaking feats of martial prowess that will thrill fans of futuristic bloodsport.

A standout character that elevates the novel is the legendary hacker Motherhacker. Her witty banter and daring exploits provide some of the book's most memorable moments, and her presence adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the overarching narrative. Reviewers consistently praised Motherhacker as a scene-stealing dynamo.

The ending and epilogue have generated polarized reactions, with some readers finding them unsatisfying while others heaped praise. Regardless, the novel's climax packs an emotional punch, and the epilogue's ominous revelations linger long after the final page, adding an extra layer of mystery that is sure to provoke discussions among readers.

In the end, "Mrok nad Tokyoramą" is a must-read for cyberpunk aficionados hungering for an immersive, adrenaline-fueled tale of vengeance set in a vividly realized, tech-noir future. With its compelling protagonist, ingenious world-building, and masterful blending of futuristic spectacle and hard-hitting action, Szmidt's novel delivers a thrilling, neon-drenched ride that longtime genre fans and newcomers alike won't want to miss.