A computer virus infects thousands of users in an online role-playing game, but that is the just the tip of the iceberg in Stephenson’s latest effort. Revealing any more details would inevitably spoil the unlikely (yet fictionally plausible) events that quickly reach global proportions. Suffice it to say, Stephenson is a gifted writer who excels at telling highly decompressed and detailed stories in an altogether clever and engrossing manner. Another engaging romp from this literary virtuoso. 

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On Arbre, a planet not unlike ours, the Avout and the Saecular have lived apart from one another for thousands of years. The monastic Avout focus on mathematics and logic; the Saecular realm dwells in technology and convenience. But events are already in motion that will force these barriers to be breached…and have far-reaching implications for Arbre. I hesitate to say more, since the story unfolds so wonderfully. Stephenson has accomplished something special with this one.

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