Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Stephen L. Padley writes an engaging sci-fi tale in Exodus 2015 – The Cloud. The experimental biochemical organisms, called nanomachines, have escaped the controlled environment of the laboratory. Set free, these organisms adapted and multiplied, and through air travel quickly engulfed the world. England is laid waste as the nanomas’ shimmering tendril cloud spreads across the country. Entering a completely new era of existence, a microbiologist, Professor Geoff Short, and a band of university students head to the forest to escape the onslaught of the nanomas. With the human race losing, fear dictates decisions; the best of efforts for survival will depend on how well the human population can relearn old skills and defend themselves against the nanomas and each other. Exodus 2015 foretells what will one do when the spirit of human endeavor faces the trials of survival.

The author, Stephen L. Padley, is a successful storyteller. Exodus 2015 – The Cloud was an entertaining read. His use of language paints clear pictures of the plot action and its setting. Padley wrote knowledgeably of the landscape and surrounding towns, convincingly taking you through the streets and countryside of England. He engages your senses through the use of sensory details revealing the shimmering and buzzing of the cloud, the smell of death and decay, the heightened emotion of fear. The use of British English in the dialogues and text strengthens the essence of the story’s setting. The plot developed proficiently and gained momentum similar to the nanoma cloud. The author told realistically the conflict of man against man for survival, in the midst of man against the nature of advanced technology. Once the apex of the plot was reached, the narrative’s end was not drawn out. The resolution of the story and its characters were wrapped up effectively over the last few pages. Yet, Exodus 2015 – The Cloud left you speculating on what could happen next.