A. A. Clifford's 5 is set in a post-apocalyptic world where multiple factions vie for power and survival following global collapse. Global Marshal Austin Corrigan spreads chaos in New York City, while Dean Clarkson, a former Global Marshal, leads a team to stop him. Clarkson joins Iron Gate, a resistance group formed to battle supernatural and scientific threats, including Corrigan and other powerful figures like Eninkua, a rogue militia leader. Meanwhile, an ancient prophecy involving a book, the Codex De Lumine, reveals that these powerful entities, including Austin, may hold the key to saving or destroying humanity. The forces of Iron Gate, led by General Isen, confront these threats, while religious factions, like the First Day group, use supernatural forces to achieve their goals. The story builds toward a final confrontation, where military and supernatural forces collide to determine the fate of the world.

A. A. Clifford's 5 is tight and immersive, mixing fast-paced action with sharp philosophical ideas. Clifford outlines the moral ambiguity of this with the decisions that have to be made. Should Austin Corrigan be saved despite his dangerous transformation? This delivers the types of battles I enjoy most in dystopian science fiction hybrids: not just physical but psychological. The supernatural elements are unpredictable, and Clifford’s leaning into faith through the Codex De Lumine and its potential to alter the course of their missions is a brilliant juxtaposition of belief and reason. Although this is the second book in the series, it does read comfortably as a standalone. That said, missing out on book one is to the reader's detriment. Both new readers and fans of the series will find this installment a worthy addition. Very highly recommended.

A.A. Clifford's 5, the second book in The Numbers Trilogy, depicts a world on the edge of disaster. Set in a bleak future, it follows the breakdown of society after the Messenger explosion, which releases powerful beings known as the "Horsemen," seen as signs of the end times. Dead Clarkson, a former Global Marshall, is pulled back into the chaos to face these forces and protect his family. The plot examines the struggle between faith and science, with the Codex de Lumine, a mix of prophetic and scientific text, offering insight during the crisis. As food supplies run low, militias rise, and governments collapse, humanity confronts its darkest days. The Iron Gate, a group of soldiers and scientists, sets out on a dangerous mission to fight the Horsemen and restore order. The story explores themes of survival, belief, and the fallout of unrestrained ambition, creating a gripping narrative of resilience. From Michigan's fortified farms to Nevada's water struggles, Clifford depicts a world unraveling under stress, giving readers a tangible sense of the apocalypse.

A.A. Clifford's 5 excels at creating a dark and immersive dystopian setting where religious prophecy and scientific progress clash with terrible outcomes. The story unfolds in a ravaged America facing famine, civil unrest, and environmental corruption, described in vivid, haunting detail. The central conflict between the Iron Gate and the Horsemen evokes classic end-of-the-world literature. Clifford sets his work apart by blending modern technology with ancient prophecy. The Codex de Lumine acts as an engaging narrative element, grounding the plot in both spiritual and scientific ideas. Although the concept of a reluctant hero is common, Dead Clarkson's inner conflicts—balancing family responsibilities, faith, and the common good—add depth to his character. Clifford's writing is vivid, especially in the action scenes, which are both powerful and well-crafted. The connections to religious texts, especially the Book of Revelation, offer a deeper philosophical background. The thoughtful examination of science as both a savior and a threat invites comparisons to works by authors like Neal Stephenson or Margaret Atwood. The mix of advanced technology, like solar-powered TacSun drones, with religious prophecy creates a unique narrative twist. Unlike many dystopian stories that focus on survival, 5 encourages readers to reflect on humanity's role in a world ruled by both logic and mystery. The engaging plot and fast-paced action are sure to attract fans of speculative fiction and apocalyptic thrillers.