Cromby's Axiom Book Review | Dystopian Science Fiction by Gary J Kirchner
A dystopian thriller that never forgets the power of books.
In this Cromby's Axiom book review, I'm sharing my thoughts on a fast-paced dystopian story that feels just believable enough to be unsettling.
This speculative thriller hooked me fast and refused to let go. The pacing is sharp, the world feels unsettlingly believable, and by the time I reached the final page… I wasn't ready to leave it behind.
With that in mind, here are my thoughts on Cromby's Axiom.
About Cromby's Axiom
Cromby's Axiom By Gary J. Kirchner
Published by FriesenPress on March 2021
Genres: Fiction, Dystopian, Science Fiction
Formats: eBook, Hardcover, Paperback
Pages: 204
Before we were all connected, before we were The Hive, there was individualism, privacy, 'personal space' . . . so quaint, so unnecessary . . . so dangerous . . .
TOMMY PIERRE ANTIKAGAMAC, a star quarterback, is the most followed player in the world's most popular sport: American football. While off-season training in the unpopulated European Fallowlands, he abruptly finds himself detached from the Hive.
Agonizingly alone in his head for the first time in his life, he panics, becomes hopelessly lost, and then is captured by a fringe group of anti-Hive saboteurs. The Freemen, as they call themselves, have concocted an audacious plan to "cataclysmically disrupt the brain of the Hive," and Tommy may just be the key they need to make it successful.
But Tommy's arrival among the Freemen is not as serendipitous as it may appear. Neither he nor his captors suspect that it is not the terrorists, but Tommy, who is the threat to the Hive. And the Hive has ways of protecting itself.
Reader Resources
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Review at a Glance
| Genre: | Dystopian Science Fiction / Speculative Fiction |
| Setting: | A near-future dystopian society |
| Length: | Quick read |
| Content Rating: | Moderate (violence, dystopian themes) |
| My Rating: | ★★★★★ |
| Quick Take: | Fast-paced, thought-provoking, and dangerously believable |
Content Considerations:
- Dystopian control systems
- Violence and conflict
- Psychological tension
With that in mind, here's how the story unfolds.
My Thoughts
I finished Cromby's Axiom and immediately wanted more-more pages, more answers, and definitely a sequel.
This is one of those stories that plays out like a movie in your head. The pacing pulls you in early, and once you're there, it doesn't loosen its grip. Each chapter builds tension in a way that feels both deliberate and effortless.
TP is an easy character to root for. Smart, sharp, and just the right amount of sarcastic, she carries the story with a presence that makes every scene feel grounded. The Freemen, too, stand out-not as typical rebels, but as something far more layered and interesting.
The world-building is where this story really shines. The concept of "The Hive" feels unsettlingly close to reality, which gives the entire book a weight that lingers. This isn't a distant, impossible future-it feels like something just around the corner.
As always, I appreciated the role books played within the story. There's a clear respect for the power of knowledge and storytelling woven into the narrative, and that thread added an extra layer of depth for me as a reader.
Why Cromby's Axiom Stands Out in Dystopian Science Fiction
As a dystopian thriller, this story works because the world feels just close enough to reality to be unsettling.
With a blend of action, tension, and thought-provoking ideas, Cromby's Axiom delivers a fast-paced read that doesn't sacrifice substance.
In Conclusion
If you enjoy dystopian fiction that feels a little too real, strong character-driven storytelling, and fast-moving plots that keep you thinking, Cromby's Axiom is absolutely worth picking up.
This is a story that lingers-and one I'd happily return to if a sequel appears.
Before we wrap up, here's a little more about the author behind the story.
About Gary J. Kirchner
About Gary J. Kirchner
Gary J. Kirchner studied physics at McGill University, where he also completed his Master’s work in sports biomechanics. During his time there, he played football with the McGill Redmen and later returned as a coach, earning Football Canada’s Gino Fracas Award in 1993.
He went on to teach physics at several Montreal-area high schools and at John Abbott College, where he received a teaching excellence award in 2014.
In addition to writing, Kirchner is a flute player and amateur astronomer, and he stays active as a cross-country skier, curler, and triathlon participant. He lives in Dorval, Quebec, with his wife, Hille, and is the author of five novels..
Explore More from Author Gary J Kirchner
Throwing the Hammer |
Cromby's Axiom
If you enjoy speculative fiction that leans into real-world possibilities, this is a story worth exploring.
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Reviewed on ginaraemitchell.com - thoughtful reviews with a focus on indie and standout reads.
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