
Mendel’s Ladder: A Riveting Journey Through a Dystopian Future
Introduction
“Mendel’s Ladder” by E.S. Fein is a riveting novel that takes readers on an adrenaline-fueled journey through a dystopian future. The narrative is a thrilling blend of action, adventure, and philosophical contemplation, set in a world where the human spirit and ingenuity persist despite the most daunting challenges. The novel, the first in “The Collected Histories of Neoevolution Earth”, is a testament to Fein’s storytelling prowess, combining complex characters, a gripping plot, and thought-provoking themes into a compelling narrative that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.
The Novel: A Thrilling Blend of Genres
“Mendel’s Ladder” is a unique blend of several genres, combining elements of science fiction, dystopian fiction, and mystery. The novel is set in a bleak future where biological and technological elements are integrated into a dystopian Earth, offering a unique exploration of the future of evolution, or neoevolution, as it is put in the novel.
The story is filled with action and tension, with vivid and exhilarating battle sequences that keep readers on the edge of their seats. However, it also wrestles with poignant themes like the nature of humanity, the consequences of unchecked power, and the struggle for hope in a world on the brink. These themes are explored through moments of introspection, offering a profound exploration of the human condition in this dystopian reality.
The Characters: Complex and Relatable
At the heart of “Mendel’s Ladder” are its characters—complex, flawed, yet relatable. They range from warriors in metal exoskeletons to strange little girls to enigmatic Nomads to revolutionaries in an orbiting city. The diverse representation, including LGBTQ+ characters, enhances the narrative and provides many differing perspectives.
The characters are well-developed, with their own unique personalities and motivations. Their struggles and triumphs add depth to the narrative, making readers invested in their journeys. The characters’ interactions with each other and their environment also contribute to the world-building, creating a vivid and immersive setting for the story.
The Mystery: Intriguing and Engaging
“Mendel’s Ladder” also excels in its mystery element, keeping readers on their toes with journals from the character “Mendel” who we still have yet to directly meet, that form an overarching grand plot set up for the rest of the series. This mystery adds an element of intrigue to the story, making readers eager to uncover the truth.
The mystery is well-crafted, with clues and hints scattered throughout the narrative. The suspense builds up gradually, keeping readers engaged and invested in the story. The resolution of the mystery is satisfying, tying up loose ends while setting the stage for the rest of the series.
Conclusion
“Mendel’s Ladder” by E.S. Fein is a thrilling and thought-provoking journey that combines elements of several genres into a unique and compelling narrative. The novel’s complex characters, intriguing mystery, and poignant themes make it a must-read for fans of science fiction and dystopian fiction.
Despite the grim setting, the story shows off the resilience of humanity, offering up a deep and poignant tale of survival, love, and hope amidst chaos. It’s a novel that will keep you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page, eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.



