The Logoharp: A Cyborg Novel of China and America in the Year 2121

by Arielle Emmett

She reports the future. And then it happens.

Naomi, half-human, half cyborg, is beyond prescient. She’s a Reverse Journalist, working for China in the 22nd century. Naomi’s job is to foresee and report the events and personalities of the future. Unlike conventional journalists who frame contemporary events, Naomi extrudes the “truth of probable outcomes” to ensure the smooth progression of history.

Driven by voices she hears in her Logoharp, a universal translator of instructions and signals from sources she can’t identify, Naomi listens, speaks and broadcasts in all world languages, ensuring citizen compliance. But an encounter with a leading architect, Naomi’s former lover who abandoned her in youth, forces recollections of her human inheritance and the role that chance, culture, and racism played in her early life.

Naomi is tasked with finding a flaw in the architect’s system that “balances” births and deaths on behalf of the State. But she grows uncomfortable, then furious. Guided by the dissonant Logoharp, Naomi experiences “unintentional contradiction.” The rest isn’t silence. She acts.

ADVANCE PRAISE FOR THE LOGOHARP

“Loved The Logoharp! It’s genuinely original, disturbing in a provocative way, occasionally funny and erotic, creative and well-paced — and I can’t get those ice sleighs out of my head! Naomi is one strange —and beguiling—heroine.”—LAURA BERMAN, feature writer, retired columnist, The Detroit News

“In Arielle Emmett’s fevered imaginings one great and ancient state is able to dominate the rest using an unbeatable secret weapon. Logoharps. Creatures able to see into the future, ensuring the state is always a step ahead. That is, until one rebels. Imagine Mona Lisa Overdrive meshed with The Wind-Up Girl. That's the kind of sci-fi ride you're in for with The Logoharp."—KEVIN SITES, author of The Ocean Above Me (HarperCollins)

“In the world of The Logoharp, there is no security, not even an objective reality, only the reality created by journalism in reverse. Emmett's' novel creates a troubling vision of media that borders on propaganda in an AI-filled future.”—HAMILTON BEAN, Ph.D., author of No More Open Source Information and the Reshaping of US Intelligence

“Prepare to be swept away by an imperfect yet wildly relatable heroine. This ancient, futuristic world will make you angry, frustrated, hopeful, in love, and inspire an uprising within.”—GRACE DIIDA, L.L.M., Venture Capital Research



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Genres: Science Fiction

466 pages, Paperback

Published July 20, 2024

About the author

Arielle Emmett, Ph.D., is a writer, visual journalist and traveling scholar specialising in East Asia, science writing and human interest. She has been a Contributing Editor to Smithsonian Air & Space magazine and a Fulbright Scholar and Specialist in Kenya (2018-2019) and Indonesia (2015). Her work has appeared in Technological Leapfrogging and Innovation in Africa (Edward Elgar, pub., 2023), Mother Jones, Smithsonian.com, The Scientist, OMNI, Ms., Parents, Saturday Review, American Journalism
Review, Boston Globe, Visual Communications Quarterly, Washington Times, Philadelphia Inquirer, Detroit Free Press, Caixin (Beijing), Los Angeles Times Book Review and Globe & Mail (Canada), among others.

A Mandarin and French speaker, Emmett has won
first prize in magazine and journal competitions staged by the American Society of Journalists & Authors (ASJA), and the International Communications Association (ICA). She has taught at the International College Beijing, University of Hong Kong Media Studies Centre, and Strathmore University Law
School (Nairobi). Her first science fiction novel, The Logoharp, a Finalist in the American Fiction Awards (2024) and a Literary Titan Gold Book Award Winner (2024), is part of a planned series on dystopian paths to utopian justice, love, and rebellion.

Reviews

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️Arielle Emmett's The Logoharp is a captivating, thought-provoking journey into a future shaped by both human ingenuity and the cold hand of state control. In the year 2121, Naomi, a half-human, half-cyborg Reverse Journalist, stands at the nexus of a world where personal identity, history, and fate are manipulated by powerful forces. Naomi’s ability to predict the future through the mysterious Logoharp a universal translator of future events gives her unparalleled insight into the workings of society. But as she begins to question the morality behind her mission and reconnect with her own human past, the story unfolds in surprising and profound ways.

⚫️Emmett's storytelling is intricate, blending speculative science fiction with rich social commentary. Naomi’s journey from a seemingly passive agent of the state to an empowered, disillusioned individual who challenges the status quo is compelling. The worldbuilding is both detailed and chilling, offering a future where technology, surveillance, and political systems intertwine to control every facet of life, yet leaving space for personal rebellion and introspection.

⚫️What truly sets The Logoharp apart is its exploration of identity and memory. Naomi’s internal struggle, amplified by the haunting and dissonant signals of the Logoharp, is a brilliant metaphor for the tension between individual agency and societal constraints. Her relationship with her past especially her former lover and the racism she experienced adds emotional depth to the novel, making Naomi not just a cyborg but a fully realized character with human complexity.

⚫️Emmett’s writing style is immersive, her descriptions of the futuristic world precise yet poetic. The narrative is both intellectual and emotional, asking difficult questions about technology’s role in shaping our futures, the ethics of control, and the power of memory and personal connection in a world that seeks to erase both.

⚫️The Logoharp is a novel that resonates on multiple levels. It is a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating read, but also one that lingers long after the final page. Through Naomi’s journey, Emmett examines the intersection of culture, technology, and power, and ultimately asks how much of ourselves we are willing to sacrifice for the illusion of progress.

⚫️For fans of dystopian fiction that challenges the mind while exploring the depths of human experience, The Logoharp is an essential read. It is a novel that balances speculative vision with raw emotional truth, and in doing so, creates a world that is both breathtaking and unsettling.


Happy reading ❤️✨

[Literary Titan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in the 22nd century, The Logoharp, by Arielle Emmett, transports readers to a world where Naomi, a human-cyborg hybrid, navigates the complexities of her existence as a "reverse journalist" in China. In Naomi’s reality, the interplay between media and truth creates a landscape both intriguing and terrifying. Dissatisfied with her life and disturbed by the rampant political power and media manipulation that the masses accept without question, Naomi dreams of rebellion. Her quest for meaning propels her down unexpected paths, where she hopes to find wisdom at the end of her journey.

Emmett's novel fits snugly into the cyberpunk genre, addressing profound themes such as the search for personal identity and meaning in a world that demands conformity. The narrative echoes the dystopian tones of Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, yet it stands out with its unique exploration of a cyborg’s struggle against societal constraints.

Despite her cyborg nature, Naomi's yearning for self-actualization is a universal human experience. Her desire to break free from routine and seek deeper meaning resonates deeply with readers who feel the same urge in today's society. Naomi’s journey is fraught with obstacles, reflecting the real-world challenges faced by those who dare to defy the status quo. Her poignant angst and the prose, ranging from poetic to vitriolic, vividly convey the tumultuous emotions within her. The writing style is a highlight, mirroring Naomi's inner turmoil with its shifting tones. Emmett’s prose captures the delicate balance between introspection and fierce defiance, engaging readers in Naomi's emotional and intellectual battles.

The Logoharp offers a thought-provoking experience for those willing to confront unsettling truths. Some may find comfort in the familiar illusions of their own "Matrix," while others may feel a revolutionary spark ignited within them. Ultimately, this novel serves as a mirror, reflecting each reader's willingness to either accept the status quo or challenge it.

[Victoria Winifred · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, I was captivated by Ms. Emmett’s sharp storytelling and keen insight. Her writing brings the characters to life with a mix of authenticity, subtle wit, and depth, making their personalities and habits feel real and engaging. Naomi, in particular, is a character you can’t help but connect with despite her unusual state of being. While some of the other characters are harder to embrace, this only enhances their authenticity, making them feel complex and true to life. Even when they challenge your expectations, they draw you in, and alongside Naomi, there are other characters you’ll come to care for, each adding emotional depth to the story.

At the heart of the narrative is the fascinating concept of a receptor—a unique individual chosen to receive messages from a higher order. This central theme is seamlessly woven into the plot, driving a gripping narrative. The book’s feel recalls the brilliance I’ve admired in some of my favorite sci-fi and suspense thriller authors—writers who craft expansive, mind-bending systems that propel unforgettable stories.

The novel is rich with depth in its world-building and character development. Experiencing Naomi’s journey through the first-person perspective makes the story feel personal and immersive, pulling you deeper into the challenges she faces. The author’s deep knowledge of East Asia and its cultural and historical details lends a grand sense of realism to the setting, making it feel both vivid and believable.

Ms. Emmett’s writing masterfully blends themes of resilience, hope, and the quest for something greater. The way she intertwines these ideas is both gripping and emotionally powerful, complemented by memorable characters who leave a lasting impact. While the book is best suited for mature readers due to its strong language and intimate themes, it stands out as a remarkable read in its genre.

[Christopher Florentz · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are a number of reasons to pick up Arielle Emmett’s The LogoHarp, not the least of which it’s a recipient of a Nautilus book award. But more importantly, it's a hell of a good read. Set in the 22nd Century, The LogoHarp is a cautionary tale for our own times and explores social, political and ethical issues, even as we grapple today with the infinite potential of AI for good or ill.

The book’s protagonist, Naomi, is a cyborg imbued with technology that enables her to process infinitesimal permutations of future outcomes. She therefore can reverse engineer reality to serve the political interests of the Chinese government to which she answers, and to which the U.S. has become subservient.

Naomi’s character is an interesting counterpoint to Emmett herself, who spent much of her career as a science and technology journalist, and whose non-fiction work exemplifies one of the canons of journalism – always find the best verifiable version of the truth.

Ultimately, it is Naomi’s humanity that holds sway over her cyborg side, triggering her innate capacity for ethical decision-making. It is hoped that our own humanity in the 21st Century will enable us to make ethical decisions that harness AI for good, absent the ill.

Fluent in Mandarin, Emmett’s rich background includes teaching in universities in China as well as the U.S. and other countries, and accounts for her intimate knowledge and understanding of Chinese culture that gives The LogoHarp its color and genuine sense of place.

[Country Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Logoharp is such an interesting read. Our FMC is named Naomi, who is a half human, half cyborg or robotic being. Naomi can see the future of others, except her own. That one is unclear even to herself. Naomi is married to Marco, who is a native Chinese born citizen and in this world is far superior to her. I also loved the interspersed Chinese characters and words that the author includes in her book. America is no longer a nation, it is now over taken by China and their castoffs that they sent to Ameriguo that they don't need anymore. I really enjoyed Marco as a character as he is very anti Ameriguo but also anti China as well and I loved seeing the disparity of his feelings.
The story is a sci-fi adventure as Naomi is a half cyborg harboring a Logoharp inside of herself. The Logoharp is a universal translation signals from all human languages and possible universal system to communicate with others. And as Naomi explains, once you get the Logoharp there is nothing you can do it's a part of you and you belong to the state. It can not be shut down or removed. I found Naomi's journey in this book fascinating, she is a human but also part cyborg and has very conflicting feelings and thoughts. The author did a fantastic job in writing her world and also each and every point that she makes about China and also Ameriguo. This was one of the best books that are you can read in the sci fi genre this year!

[James Posedel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Logoharp is ‘science fiction’ by the same criteria that music is language.

Attempt to define the prerequisites of music and you’ll grasp premature, towards a fractal that eludes every parameter by which it is perceived and categorized. Distilled to their common denominators, both language and music are ‘vibration’ - filtered through flesh-and-bone circuitry to be catalogued imperfectly as memory. (Often times ‘imperfect memory’ is an intentional and self-inflicted pursuit). Our human programming is resolved to extract meaning from any memory we can create.

At the intersection of the physical (vibration) and the spiritual (music), you’ll find The Logoharp; a kaleidoscopic echo of Man’s Search for Meaning in a base reality where the prerequisites for ‘meaning’ have devolved into the remnants of somebody else’s dream and not from this era.

Arielle’s novel explores the dialectic prerequisites for a meaningful life. Naomi’s story plucks the notes of life, love, hard choices, fate, mortality, duty, honor, pleasure, death, and rebirth. Naomi searches for her forte beside a resplendent ensemble of quantum physics, advanced robotic augmentation, Historical wave interference, and an impossibly-stacked future where true resolution, sans coda, feels so far away.

Read it once for the story, twice for the lore, and a third time to catch the overtones that are dancing on the outer reaches of your literary cochlea.

[Taryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arielle Emmett’s The Logoharp is a bold and imaginative sci-fi novel that blends speculative technology, ethical dilemmas, and a deeply immersive world. Set in the future where America has been absorbed into a Chinese-controlled society known as Ameriguo, the novel follows Naomi, a half-human, half-cyborg "Reverse Journalist" who possesses the ability to foresee and shape future events. Bound by the directives of an authoritarian state, Naomi grapples with her dual existence and the unsettling realization that her very being is an instrument of control.

Emmett crafts a future where artificial intelligence, quantum mechanics, and cryogenics intersect with a society struggling under surveillance and media manipulation. The concept of the Logoharp, a technology that translates and dictates human destiny, is both fascinating but chilling, raising profound questions about free will, governance, and the nature of truth. The inclusion of Chinese language elements and cultural details adds depth to the setting, making it feel both foreign and plausible.

Naomi is a compelling protagonist, torn between duty and self-awareness. Her internal struggle, coupled with the political tensions of the world around her, provides a strong emotional core. Marco, her ex-husband, is another intriguing character, whose nuances of loyalty and revolt against an oppressive regime contribute a further layer of tension and suspense to the action.

The novel’s flow, however, is little inconsistent. While the opening establishes a strong premise, there are places that are too weighed down with scientific and philosophical explanation, slowing the story pace at times. Hard science fiction fans will appreciate the attention to detail, but others may feel overwhelmed by the intricate theory that occasionally obliterates the emotional tension of the narrative. That notwithstanding, once the story picks up, it presents suspenseful scenes and surprise twists that leave the reader attached to it.

The Logoharp is a clever and ambitious vision of a potential future, filled with creative ideas and topical social commentary. Although its execution isn't flawless, the book is ultimately able to provide a distinct and engaging sci-fi experience. I definitely recommend for readers who appreciate cerebral, idea-driven fiction with a solid philosophical focus.

[Charles Nicholls · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Logoharp – by Arielle Emmett A fascinating, suspenseful saga of future life—and death.
What if you could become a part-human, part-machine cyborg – gaining amazing physical and mental capabilities for doing good but sacrificing much of normal human life and longevity?
What in your past or present could lead you to decide on such a future? Could your dual-natured soul find a soothing harmony in your new identity—or would it be an internal civil war?
The Logoharp is a fascinating, first-person fictional account of Naomi, a female making this fateful choice. She undergoes irreversible enhancements of her body and brain – and only later realizes her assigned mission is part of the government’s morally nebulous control over the herd of humanity. Arielle Emmett’s fast-paced, sophisticated novel blends Naomi’s ambition and conscience with her dark discoveries about the Directorate that controls her world. The Logoharp lands the reader in a daunting future where a brave heroine navigates brand new realities of good and evil and life and death.

[Jian · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Logoharp presents Naomi as a compelling protagonist caught in the crosshairs of a dystopian regime. As a cyborg navigating her duality of human emotion and programmed obedience, her internal conflicts resonate deeply with readers. The journey of self-discovery she embarks upon, set against a backdrop of societal manipulation and personal loss, makes her character not only relatable but also profoundly impactful.

Naomi's resistance against her assigned role as a 'reverse journalist' showcases her determination to reclaim her identity and agency. Her painful past, particularly her fraught relationship with Hsu Yang, adds layers to her story, provoking thought on love and sacrifice in an oppressive world. This novel urges us to question the nature of humanity in a technological future, with Naomi standing as a poignant symbol of resilience and moral complexity. The Logoharp is a must-read for anyone seeking a rich, character-driven narrative that tackles topical issues with grace.

[Philippe De · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's always difficult to review a friend's book. But this one I read over the week I can definitely recommend. It is definitely the kind of good sci-fi story that drive you into a better understanding the world we're living in such as Ray Bradbury's Farhenheit 451. This book is of this kind. I won't spoil the plot which is definitely great. However I can tell you it's about topics I have been curious about such as transhumanism, international relationships and what is a human being after all. I learnt a lot of new vocabulary as english is not my mother tongue. I wish this book a large readership all over the world.

[John H · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a futuristic world, Naomi, an evolving cyborg, conspires against a global authority where all lives, including hers, are expendable. Questioning and unraveling what the future holds, she uses her developing abilities to manipulate minds and undermine the structure of the deadly new world order. The novel invites its readers to explore the intricacies of the relationship between Naomi and her human quasi-sexual partner during the many stages of her physical and emotional transition from human to almost fully cyborg. An endlessly fascinating and gripping account of her triumphs and failures as she fights to save others, as well as herself.

[Marianne Pestana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arielle Emmett’s The Logoharp is a lyrical and unsettling dystopian novel that lingers long after the final page. Set in a chilling future where the government implants devices to control language, thought, and lifespan, this story follows Naomi, a young woman caught between love, autonomy, and the powerful forces that seek to use her voice as a tool of the state. With poetic prose and profound philosophical depth, Emmett explores identity, surveillance, and the human cost of engineered harmony. Perfect for readers who crave speculative fiction with emotional weight and intellectual bite.

[Emmeline Everdeen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing exploration of a potential future.

This was a very complex story that blends current situations with a deeply oppressive future. It was an interesting concept, reporting the future and having it happen , but it is highly relevant as our media attempts this daily. Kind of scary to think about…
The story was will written and very detailed. Fans of complex and academic science fiction will thoroughly enjoy this book.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great technothriller. Very focused on journalism. There are a lot of references to historical events that marked our human history. The main character makes brave choices and we keep turning the page to see what next challenge she will face. We can feel the author is very knowledgeable and researched well. I am always pulled to read cyborg-themed novels. Reverse journalism is the best concept created and how it drives the plot.

[Beyond Bookends · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author keeps harassing her friends to write a review for this book and keeps pestering book stores to sell this dull project. Despite the cover illustration being unique and creative, the plot is quite unoriginal. It has a very slow beginning that is hard to stay present with and could use better character development. I would not recommend this book to others, save your money and time

[Beverly Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

A hugely ambitious vision of a time in which America is a Chinese colony, almost anyone over 50 is sent off to die in a cozy ice-sled, and journalists are tasked with chronicling a future which then comes to pass. This novel should give readers who are fascinated by technology and by glimpses of where we'll be in the 22nd century a great deal to ponder.

[Jeff Henning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr Emmett's novel is a chilling crucible of current events and trends as they have evolved into the 22nd century. The story is an intelligent take on how social media, "fake news," euthanasia and artificial intelligence converge to dehumanize mankind. It speaks to accepting our fate or taking a stand to preserve our humanity. Dr. Emmett's attention to detail is breathtaking!

[Linda Kowalski · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Logoharp is an imaginative, provocative view of the future with implications to society today. Dr. Emmett describes a scenario that we need to consider now, to ensure that version of tomorrow never comes.
A remarkable achievement.

[Lynn Krumeich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thought provoking look at our future. So many uniquely crafted layers. The story immediately grabs your attention and takes you on a roller coaster ride to the fictional future of our planet. Characters are unique and complex. Powerful, engaging and disturbing- The Logoharp does not disappoint.