Deficiency is a dystopian sci-fi novel written by S.C. Eston. Perched above the clouds of Garadia stands Prominence City in all its glory, reveling in its technological marvels and scientific endeavors. Husband and wife Artenz and Keidi go through the motions of their daily lives when the sudden disappearance of Artenz's older sister Detel throws them headfirst into a global conspiracy that may change the fate of the world forever. As Artenz and Keidi find themselves hunted by Enforcers led by the ruthless Mysa Lamond, they receive unexpected help through an old friend, who acquaints them with the underground revolutionary group Authentic Banner. Artenz and Keidi come to realize that they must find a way to survive in the Low Lands to secure a future for their child.

Inspired by notable dystopian works such as Blade Runner and 1984, S.C. Eston's Deficiency is a highly imaginative work of exceptional craft that quickly draws the reader in with its intricate plot, creative world, and compelling characters. S.C. Eston's meta-commentary on corporate greed, mass surveillance, and totalitarian regimes felt spot on and seemed to have striking parallels with our real world. I found the pacing suitable for its unpredictable plot, which provides plenty of mystery to keep you engaged. S.C. Eston doesn't shy away from showcasing violence, and the action sequences that he describes in vivid detail seemed gritty and realistic. Deficiency is one of my favorite books I've read this year. Sci-fi fans should not miss this one.

Deficiency by S.C. Eston is a fully developed vision into the future of mankind that is both thrilling and terrifying in its impact. The story takes place on another planet but has clear ties to Earth in more ways than one. The main characters, Artenz and Keidi, are an average young couple who exist in a mostly artificial world created by a network of corporations. Artenz's sister, Detel, is a scientist who has been doing forbidden research. When Detel goes missing, Artenz and Keidi find themselves being chased by the authorities including a cyborg named Okran, an unstoppable killing machine. When Artenz and Keidi get separated, they find help from a covert group of rebels dedicated to unmasking the lies of the corporations and promoting truth. The story that follows is a high-powered game of cat and mouse into the underbelly of their seemingly perfect world. At first, Artenz and Keidi are unsure of why they are being hunted so fiercely, but the more they see behind the curtain the more they know they have to keep running so they can bring the truth to the light.

I thoroughly enjoyed Deficiency by S.C. Eston. It has an exceptional cast of characters, all fully fleshed out with interesting personalities and motivations. The science behind the story also feels authentic. Computers control everything in Deficiency and the author does a top-notch job of speaking the language of computers. His technical explanation for everything from Artenz's virtual living space to the corporate spying methods was not only authentic but understandable. The plot is also exceptional in its creativity and fast pace, filled with delightful twists and turns. I highly recommend Deficiency. It is intelligent science fiction that manages to be thrilling and fun at the same time.