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Burn the Freeze: A Dystopian Adventure
2025 Bronze Medal Winner for Dystopian - Readers' Favorite International Book Awards
“Reads like a dark prophecy that hits dangerously close to home.” – SPR
“Easily one of the most exciting books I've read this year.” – Asher Syed, Readers’ Favorite
“Reminiscent of The Matrix and 1984.” – NewinBooks.com
Can one rebel bring down a group of billionaires (“The 31”) who control society’s mind?
Cal Shook is a highwayman seemingly born without luck. Years after the orchestrated massacre of his family’s research compound, Cal is classified as a Deviator in accordance with the Freeze Act.
Maneuvering through life as a Deviator, he becomes more involved with his fate. He discovers a revolutionary technology, known as the X-2 headset, that enables a user to temporarily access the nonlocal reality.
The further he delves into this new world, Cal learns how intertwined the local reality is with his fate, an oppressive regime, and the nonlocal reality.
And now, “The 31” won’t stop until he’s six feet under.
The Matrix meets 1984.
“Reads like a dark prophecy that hits dangerously close to home.” – SPR
“Easily one of the most exciting books I've read this year.” – Asher Syed, Readers’ Favorite
“Reminiscent of The Matrix and 1984.” – NewinBooks.com
Can one rebel bring down a group of billionaires (“The 31”) who control society’s mind?
Cal Shook is a highwayman seemingly born without luck. Years after the orchestrated massacre of his family’s research compound, Cal is classified as a Deviator in accordance with the Freeze Act.
Maneuvering through life as a Deviator, he becomes more involved with his fate. He discovers a revolutionary technology, known as the X-2 headset, that enables a user to temporarily access the nonlocal reality.
The further he delves into this new world, Cal learns how intertwined the local reality is with his fate, an oppressive regime, and the nonlocal reality.
And now, “The 31” won’t stop until he’s six feet under.
The Matrix meets 1984.
- GenresScience Fiction
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
50 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
S.M. McVicar
1 book3 followersS.M. McVicar is an adventurer who has always tried to understand the mind and how it relates to the universe. In a career spanning two decades in the financial sector, he’s witnessed the greed of corporate America firsthand. That background and a natural rebellious streak became the spark for Burn the Freeze.
McVicar lives with his wife in the Lake Tahoe area of Nevada. They have three amazing children who they enjoy debating with about literature, music, and anything else important happening in the world.
Burn the Freeze is his first published novel and is already on the Amazon new release bestseller list. Try the sample pages to see if the story resonates for you the way it has for so many others.
McVicar lives with his wife in the Lake Tahoe area of Nevada. They have three amazing children who they enjoy debating with about literature, music, and anything else important happening in the world.
Burn the Freeze is his first published novel and is already on the Amazon new release bestseller list. Try the sample pages to see if the story resonates for you the way it has for so many others.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 18, 2026
dialing in for a long review since there isn’t many!
i was recommended this book by an old teacher and she let me borrow it, and the premise had me immediately hooked. it is something that could so easily (so easily that it’s scary) happen in our society and it was blocked out very well.
the scene towards the end of the recording from maria on the flash drive is exactly how it would go down. classifying those into categories of, basically, how easy they’d be to shove into submission, and if they aren’t, ostracize them from society.
we follow cal through his journey, and god this man goes through a lot in just a few days. i loved all of his relationships with jett, eddy, and even ramona and maria.
maria’s character, to me, is slightly complex as she’s one of the 31, but also keeps around cal and what we seem to find out, is trying to do something good to fix society.
although i wish this wasn’t a cliffhanger, i am excited to see where the second book takes us. and we better get a sequel or i’ll be mad!
i was recommended this book by an old teacher and she let me borrow it, and the premise had me immediately hooked. it is something that could so easily (so easily that it’s scary) happen in our society and it was blocked out very well.
the scene towards the end of the recording from maria on the flash drive is exactly how it would go down. classifying those into categories of, basically, how easy they’d be to shove into submission, and if they aren’t, ostracize them from society.
we follow cal through his journey, and god this man goes through a lot in just a few days. i loved all of his relationships with jett, eddy, and even ramona and maria.
maria’s character, to me, is slightly complex as she’s one of the 31, but also keeps around cal and what we seem to find out, is trying to do something good to fix society.
although i wish this wasn’t a cliffhanger, i am excited to see where the second book takes us. and we better get a sequel or i’ll be mad!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2024
This unfortunately feels like a topic not so fictional, but at least it was entertaining. Reading about Cal Shook's character development was really fascinating, going from a former venture capitalist to outright outcast. The story is very fast paced and of a great length with a perfect blend of suspense, action, and intellectual exploration with the help of artificial intelligence. If this book is one thing, is thought-provoking for sure. I think the description of this being The Matrix meets 1984 was spot on. I really enjoyed it overall. A dystopian adventure with science fiction - perfect for enthusiasts of this genre. Highly recommend it!
November 16, 2024
Absolutely gripping dystopian book!
I couldn’t put this down. I enjoyed every bit of it. I devoured this book, I was really engaged. I liked how it was fast paced because it kept me on edge, I can’t wait what would happen with Cal and his goals. The themes are political, life and death. It might be thought provoking to some but there is a truth behind it. You can compare it to the reality we are facing right now. The characters have their own distinct personalities and well developed throughout the story. My most favorite, of course, is Cal Shook. I was mesmerized by his beliefs. He may be cynical but he was just honest. I loved how he did not lose hope until the end and decided to fight for justice. AS THEY SHOULD. I loathe that the people were classified by personality based on a test just to benefit the bills. I found it unjust. There are a lot of people lost their homes and lives just because of it. Aaack, I am really excited for the next adventure of Cal and his friends! The author did a fantastic job pulling me in the story, it felt like I was there with them. Definitely recommended!
I couldn’t put this down. I enjoyed every bit of it. I devoured this book, I was really engaged. I liked how it was fast paced because it kept me on edge, I can’t wait what would happen with Cal and his goals. The themes are political, life and death. It might be thought provoking to some but there is a truth behind it. You can compare it to the reality we are facing right now. The characters have their own distinct personalities and well developed throughout the story. My most favorite, of course, is Cal Shook. I was mesmerized by his beliefs. He may be cynical but he was just honest. I loved how he did not lose hope until the end and decided to fight for justice. AS THEY SHOULD. I loathe that the people were classified by personality based on a test just to benefit the bills. I found it unjust. There are a lot of people lost their homes and lives just because of it. Aaack, I am really excited for the next adventure of Cal and his friends! The author did a fantastic job pulling me in the story, it felt like I was there with them. Definitely recommended!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2024
"Burn the Freeze: A Dystopian Adventure" by S.M. McVicar is a compelling exploration of a future dominated by a powerful group of billionaires known as "The 31." Following the implementation of the oppressive Freeze Act, society faces authoritarian control and citizens undergo dehumanizing biofeedback tests to determine their societal worth. Protagonist Cal Shook, an ex-venture capitalist classified as a Deviator, embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim his life and fight back against oppression with the help of the X-2 headset, which taps into hidden universal intelligence.
The narrative resonates with contemporary themes and draws comparisons to classics like The Matrix and 1984. McVicar's engaging prose creates a vivid dystopian world, making the stakes feel real and urgent as Cal confronts powerful forces. The book serves both as thrilling entertainment and a cautionary tale about the fragility of freedom. Overall, it is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction, offering impactful storytelling and relevant social commentary.
The narrative resonates with contemporary themes and draws comparisons to classics like The Matrix and 1984. McVicar's engaging prose creates a vivid dystopian world, making the stakes feel real and urgent as Cal confronts powerful forces. The book serves both as thrilling entertainment and a cautionary tale about the fragility of freedom. Overall, it is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction, offering impactful storytelling and relevant social commentary.
November 4, 2024
"Burn the Freeze" by S.M. McVicar is a dark novel set in a future under the strict control of the Bills regime. The protagonist, Cal Shook, is deemed a "deviator" for failing biofeedback tests that determine societal worth. The oppressive Freeze Act disrupts his life, loss of courage, career, and independence. The story begins when Cal discovers himself in a world vastly different from his own. He possesses a secret weapon: a headset equipped with AI technology that aids him in navigating this new reality. He utilizes this technology to launch an attack against the government and challenge its dominance with his friends.
The novel provides a thrilling adventure while exploring insurgence, control, and endurance. Cal's mission to fight against the Bills leads him to confront various challenges and threats from his adversaries. This conflict adds depth to the story, revealing the harsh truths of a dystopian world.
The novel provides a thrilling adventure while exploring insurgence, control, and endurance. Cal's mission to fight against the Bills leads him to confront various challenges and threats from his adversaries. This conflict adds depth to the story, revealing the harsh truths of a dystopian world.
February 24, 2025
My never-ending quest of finding new Sci-Fi authors has finally led me to a true gem: Burn the Freeze by S.M. McVicar.
The "official" pitch is The Matrix meets 1984, but for me personally it was more like Neuromancer meets current situation in America. There's a strong old-school VR vibe in a dystopian world that's taken over and effectively ruled by greedy billionaires. Does that ring any bells?
The plot grips right from the start and maintains the suspense until the very end. Once underway, the action doesn't slow down. I'm talking Jason Statham's Crank-level fast-burning momentum.
The actual and virtual realities bleed over each other. There's a fair bit of hacking and futuristic technologies, but there's also plenty of physical combat and car chase scenes.
All the while the narrative never ceases to explore social implications of a horribly distorted society.
Burn the Freeze was a blast, and its author goes on my radar, and also should go on yours.
The "official" pitch is The Matrix meets 1984, but for me personally it was more like Neuromancer meets current situation in America. There's a strong old-school VR vibe in a dystopian world that's taken over and effectively ruled by greedy billionaires. Does that ring any bells?
The plot grips right from the start and maintains the suspense until the very end. Once underway, the action doesn't slow down. I'm talking Jason Statham's Crank-level fast-burning momentum.
The actual and virtual realities bleed over each other. There's a fair bit of hacking and futuristic technologies, but there's also plenty of physical combat and car chase scenes.
All the while the narrative never ceases to explore social implications of a horribly distorted society.
Burn the Freeze was a blast, and its author goes on my radar, and also should go on yours.
October 29, 2024
"Burn the Freeze" brings the reader into a potential future of the US, where the country becomes an authoritarian state following the Freeze Act. Because of this authority, everyone has to be classified by personality based on a biofeedback test. If you don't pass the test, you are labeled a Deviator or Instigator and life becomes extremely difficult. But our hero, Cal, has a secret weapon: the X-2 headset, cutting-edge AI tech that shares all the secrets of the universe with him. This headset provides the ultimate way out when Cal is tagged as a Deviator. Faced with no other choice, Cal and his new Deviator and Instigator friends decide to use the headset to attack the government and end oppression. However, those in power aren't going to go down easily, and will stop at nothing to see Cal dead.
October 28, 2024
S.M. McVicar’s "Burn the Freeze" thrusts readers into a chilling near-future America gripped by authoritarian rule after the implementation of a billionaire-backed Freeze Act. This law mandates biofeedback testing classifying citizens into roles based on compliance and productivity and harshly punishing those deemed “Deviators” or “Instigators.”
The book’s detailed world-building and suspenseful plot make for a gripping dystopian adventure that examines the consequences of unchecked power. The author’s story blends sci-fi and cyberpunk elements by highlighting themes of rebellion and surveillance. Vivid depictions of oppression and resistance add depth to this modern-day thrilling narrative.
The book’s detailed world-building and suspenseful plot make for a gripping dystopian adventure that examines the consequences of unchecked power. The author’s story blends sci-fi and cyberpunk elements by highlighting themes of rebellion and surveillance. Vivid depictions of oppression and resistance add depth to this modern-day thrilling narrative.
October 29, 2024
Burn to Freeze: A Dystopian Adventure by S.M. McVicar
Where are we going to get to?
A sci-fi novel that shows us a world of oppression caused by a group of billionaires who control the country, but when one of those who has lost everything in this process, Cal, finds a form of Artificial Intelligence that can help him overthrow the new regime, he finds that this goes beyond everything he could imagine and he doesn't know for sure if he will be able to overthrow them. The center of the novel is very distressing because we see how money handles everything, how all those who are not capable of generating billions are left out of what these 31 billionaires call society, a fiction very close to reality if analyzed coldly.
Where are we going to get to?
A sci-fi novel that shows us a world of oppression caused by a group of billionaires who control the country, but when one of those who has lost everything in this process, Cal, finds a form of Artificial Intelligence that can help him overthrow the new regime, he finds that this goes beyond everything he could imagine and he doesn't know for sure if he will be able to overthrow them. The center of the novel is very distressing because we see how money handles everything, how all those who are not capable of generating billions are left out of what these 31 billionaires call society, a fiction very close to reality if analyzed coldly.
October 30, 2024
Burn the Freeze takes readers into a dark future where compliance is everything, and those who resist are branded as threats. S.M. McVicar crafts a tense, immersive world with just the right blend of sci-fi and cyberpunk vibes, making it hard to put down.
What sets this story apart is its focus on rebellion and the harsh consequences of surveillance. The Freeze Act feels eerily plausible, and the characters’ struggles add emotional weight to the narrative, making you root for them every step of the way.
With solid world-building and a satisfying ending, this dystopian adventure keeps you hooked. It offers more than just action—it’s a thought-provoking journey into power, control, and resistance. Definitely worth a read for fans of dystopian fiction looking for something fresh.
What sets this story apart is its focus on rebellion and the harsh consequences of surveillance. The Freeze Act feels eerily plausible, and the characters’ struggles add emotional weight to the narrative, making you root for them every step of the way.
With solid world-building and a satisfying ending, this dystopian adventure keeps you hooked. It offers more than just action—it’s a thought-provoking journey into power, control, and resistance. Definitely worth a read for fans of dystopian fiction looking for something fresh.
October 30, 2024
Burn the Freeze takes readers on a gripping journey through a dystopian future where control and compliance are enforced with chilling precision. S.M. McVicar weaves a story of rebellion and resilience, following Cal Shook, a former venture capitalist, as he challenges “The 31,” the elite billionaires controlling society. Cal’s discovery of the X-2 headset brings a thrilling blend of tech and mind-bending action, making this story both unsettlingly relevant and hard to put down. Fans of dystopian adventures will appreciate the layered themes and intense plot twists in this hauntingly realistic world.
November 2, 2024
Gripping Story
A gripping dystopian adventure novel about Cal Shook, an ex-venture capitalist and newly labeled “Deviator” fighting against the “31” billionaires taking over the US citizen’s minds and free will. He discovers the X-2 headset which is a technology that allows him to to grasp the universe’s hidden intelligence. Cal has to decide if using the technology is worth the risk to try and beat the 31’s to get back his freedom. Very well-written, suspenseful, and filled with twists and turns you never saw coming. I recommend this book to all sci-fi and dystopian adventure fans.
A gripping dystopian adventure novel about Cal Shook, an ex-venture capitalist and newly labeled “Deviator” fighting against the “31” billionaires taking over the US citizen’s minds and free will. He discovers the X-2 headset which is a technology that allows him to to grasp the universe’s hidden intelligence. Cal has to decide if using the technology is worth the risk to try and beat the 31’s to get back his freedom. Very well-written, suspenseful, and filled with twists and turns you never saw coming. I recommend this book to all sci-fi and dystopian adventure fans.
November 4, 2024
In Burn the Freeze: A Dystopian Adventure, S.M. McVicar imagines a chilling future ruled by billionaires known as the 31- who enforce control through the Freeze Act and ultimately dehumanizing biofeedback tests. Cal Shook, a Deviator and ex-venture capitalist, fights back with the help of an X-2 headset that unlocks hidden knowledge. The imagery is compellingly real, and well described while the plot moves briskly with an undercurrent of unease. Combining cyberpunk and dystopian elements, the novel explores rebellion against surveillance and oppression, creating a gripping story with thoughtful social commentary. This book is perfect for dystopian fiction fans.
October 28, 2024
Burn the Freeze: A Dystopian Adventure by S.M. McVicar is a gripping science fiction novel set in a future where billionaire elites impose strict control over society. The story follows Cal, a former venture capitalist labeled an outcast, who bands with other rebels to dismantle this oppressive system. McVicar’s storytelling deftly weaves high-stakes action with deep ethical questions, keeping readers engaged with its suspenseful plot and thought-provoking themes. This novel’s blend of thrilling adventure and social critique makes it a compelling choice for fans of dystopian sci-fi.
November 6, 2024
This science fiction in the backdrop of a dystopian society is highly engrossing and very disturbing. The unsettling power of technology is seen in the scene where a woman penetrates a man's mind through his ear to read his hidden secrets and torture from within. The author's unique vision and imagination unveils in similar futuristic devices with the power to kill or save. Ultimately, the book acts as a warning to mould technology in the right direction otherwise it would become destructive when found in wrong hands.
November 14, 2024
In “Burn the Freeze: A Dystopian Adventure,” S.M. McVicar envisions a chilling future where billionaires maintain control through oppressive laws and dehumanizing biofeedback tests. Blending cyberpunk and dystopian elements, the novel delves into themes of rebellion against surveillance and societal oppression.
With vivid, realistic imagery and a fast-paced plot, it sustains an atmosphere of unease throughout. McVicar offers a gripping story paired with thoughtful social commentary, making it an engaging read for fans of dystopian fiction.
With vivid, realistic imagery and a fast-paced plot, it sustains an atmosphere of unease throughout. McVicar offers a gripping story paired with thoughtful social commentary, making it an engaging read for fans of dystopian fiction.
October 9, 2024
A new government will take over from the main one will take control of the country. They will make everyone take tests to see just what the will bring to country. Those who do not fit in will be watched, life will become more difficult for everyone. An interesting read about a future which would not be easy to live through
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it will certainly make you think about what could happen
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it will certainly make you think about what could happen
November 2, 2024
What a great book! Burn the Freeze is a dystopian thriller about the dark underbelly of a society ruled by an elite few. Not to mention the fight against a billionaire-driven authoritarian regime that's intense! Especially about the X-2 headset, a device that taps into universal intelligence. Um, could that be us soon? The novel’s rich world-building brings us into a chilling future where biofeedback tests and social classifications define freedom.
November 15, 2024
Great read
I liked this read because the narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists, keeping the tension high throughout. The descriptions of the dystopian world are vivid and unsettling, making it easy to picture the grim reality the characters live in. The author’s writing is crisp and engaging, and the dialogue feels natural, pulling you deeper into the world of the oppressed and their fight for justice.
I liked this read because the narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists, keeping the tension high throughout. The descriptions of the dystopian world are vivid and unsettling, making it easy to picture the grim reality the characters live in. The author’s writing is crisp and engaging, and the dialogue feels natural, pulling you deeper into the world of the oppressed and their fight for justice.
November 19, 2024
Wow, what a great read!
This book was science fiction but parallel to a reality that we could face if the trajectory of our world does not change for the better. The truth is, if certain societies and private entities are not kept at bay and held accountable, this novel would read more like a prophecy of doom. I enjoyed this and highly recommend it!
This book was science fiction but parallel to a reality that we could face if the trajectory of our world does not change for the better. The truth is, if certain societies and private entities are not kept at bay and held accountable, this novel would read more like a prophecy of doom. I enjoyed this and highly recommend it!
November 18, 2024
Burn the Freeze by S.M. McVicar is a thrilling dystopian novel that had me hooked from the start. The world the author created is haunting and disturbingly believable. I think it paints a dark picture of a future where even personalities are judged, and freedom is a rare commodity. Recommended!
November 25, 2024
This book is perfect for fans of The Matrix or 1984, but it has its own unique flavor. It’s a powerful and unforgettable read, packed with action, technology, and the spirit of resistance. McVicar has crafted a story that will make you think and keep you on the edge of your seat.
December 31, 2024
2.5 interesting concept but poor writing and cheesy dialogue.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews