The Warden

by Jon Richter

Can you be free if you can't go outside?

The year is 2024, and the residents of the Tower, a virus-proof apartment building, live in a state of permanent lockdown. The building is controlled by James, who keeps the residents safe but incarcerated. Behind bricked-up front doors, their every need is serviced; they are pampered but remain prisoners. This suits Eugene just fine. Ravaged by the traumas of his past, the agoraphobic ex-detective has no intention of ever setting foot outside again. But when he finds the Tower’s building manager brutally dismembered, his investigator’s instincts won’t allow him to ignore the vicious crime. What Eugene finds beyond the comfort of his apartment’s walls will turn his sheltered existence upside down. To unravel the Tower’s mysteries, he must confront James... and James takes his role as the Warden very, very seriously.

Jon Richter is also the critically-acclaimed author of the psychological thrillers Rabbit Hole and Never Rest. The Warden is a mind-blowing crime thriller perfect for our times and a book that will appeal to fans of Black Mirror.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Dystopia, Ebooks, Science Fiction, Mystery Thriller

312 pages, Paperback

First published June 9, 2021

About the author

Jon Richter writes dark fiction in a variety of genres, including critically acclaimed crime thrillers, horror, science fiction and fantasy. His novels include gripping whodunnit mystery Rabbit Hole, psychological techno-thriller The Warden, the disturbing illustrated collection of short horror stories DARK FICTION, and his latest release, the fantasy epic Scarred.

He hails from the northwest of England but now lives in London with his (extremely patient) wife, and loves immersing himself in all things dark and sinister, whether that's books, films, music, video games or even board games – any way to tell a great story! As well as writing, he co-hosts two podcasts: the dark fiction podcast, Dark Natter, and the cyberpunk podcast, Hosts In The Shell, which you can find wherever you get your podcast fix.

He also develops video games and recently released his debut game, a comedy horror RPG called Reanimation Ltd, which you can download here: https://jonrichter.itch.io/reanimatio....

If you want to chat to him about any of this, you can find him on Twitter @richterwrites, Bluesky @jonrichter, or Instagram @jonrichterwrites. His website haunts the internet at www.jon-richter.com, and you can find his books available on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/2OXXRVP.

Reviews

[Helen Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short Review: I highly recommend this book to those looking for a psychological, dystopian thriller set during a pandemic that looks eerily similar to this one.

Full Review:

Set in the not-too-distant future, this psychological science fiction thriller has themes that hit close to home. Prior to the events of the book, retired police detective Eugene moved into a highly secure, well-contained apartment building called The Tower. The building is run by an artificial intelligence that is specifically designed to protect its inhabitants from the latest mutated strain of COVID. Eugene should be perfectly safe inside this building. But then the inhabitants start getting murdered...

This book touches on a lot of themes both pandemic-related and not. We see what the isolation and loneliness is doing to the inhabitants of The Tower, which is highly relatable to those of us who struggled during quarantine in the pandemic. The book has two timelines. The first is the year 2024, where Eugene lives in The Tower and ominous things are starting to happen. The second timeline follows Felicity in the year 2020, just at the beginning of the pandemic. She’s designed an artificial intelligence, and her cunning and ambition drives her to push to have it become her company’s latest technological innovation. But at what cost?

Eugene is suffering from PTSD from his former position as a detective, which makes him an interesting protagonist. He's an agoraphobe, and up until this point he's welcomed the time of social isolation during the pandemic. He appreciates the safety and solitude that residence in The Tower offers him. But Eugene isn't at all unfeeling or cold. He cares about those around him, despite the fact that he's purposefully distanced himself from them.

This is a compelling and eerie concept, timely, and Richter uses a haunting prose. It’s fast-paced, easy reading, and it’s hard to put it down. As the book progresses, the chapters grow shorter, and the switch between POVs is more frequent. The plot twists are engaging and unpredictable. However, towards the end of the book, we start getting a lot of flashbacks that unnecessarily bog down the pace. I did feel like the story ended a little too abruptly and loose ends were tied up a little too conveniently for my liking.

I highly recommend this book to those looking for a psychological, dystopian thriller set during a pandemic that looks eerily similar to this one.

*Thank you to Blackthorn Book Tours and the author for the ebook to review*

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgeners.com

THE WARDEN by Jon Richter is an intense dystopian/horror/psychological thriller mash-up which had my spine tingling and sitting on the edge of my seat throughout. Take peoples fear of a super mutated Covid and combine that with an AI like HAL from 2001: A Space Odyssey and I could not turn the pages fast enough.

In the year 2024, the residents of the Tower have won a lottery to live in a virus proof apartment building completely controlled by the AI (Artificial Intelligence) called James and the service bots run by James. All the residents’ needs are taken care of, but they can never leave their individual apartments.

Eugene is an ex-detective who lives in the Tower and has become agoraphobic with his fear of the virus and the personal trauma he suffered before moving in. On a day like any other, he is waiting for his delivery of essentials but when the elevator arrives at his apartment, the building’s manager is inside dead and dismembered.

Eugene battles his fears to investigate the death and begins to unravel the Tower’s and James’ mysteries.

I loved this book as much as it scared me. The premise of a super mutated Covid is scary enough, but I have always been leary of AI technology. This story is told in two alternating timelines. The first is set in 2021 and we learn how James came into existence and his capabilities, and the second is 2024, which is the present in this story, when we meet Eugene. Both timelines have plots full of unexpected twists that lead to surprising climaxes. Eugene is a memorable protagonist. At first, I felt sorry for Eugene and the reasons he was hiding away and then I cheered him on as he battled those fears and James.

I highly recommend this chilling dystopian tale!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are wanting to escape the current nightmare that is the on-going pandemic, then step away from this book! In this novel, we are in the year of 2024, where the virus has mutated to the point where it is no longer safe to be outside. A chilling novel that is almost too close to reality, I sometimes felt terrified that this would become true!

In this take on the virus, a select group of citizens have come to live in the Tower. This is essentially a block of flats that it completely isolated from the outside world – to the point that external doors and windows have been bricked up for the safety of the residents. The reason being is that the a cough or sneeze from an infected person can now stay in the air for several hours. Horrifying. Instead, residents have all of their needs met by AI which has developed in leaps and bounds, brought on by the demands from adjusted living. Food parcels are delivered, video calling is the norm and the residents are cared for by the central AI, James. (In other words, a massive competitor to Alexa.)

It all sounds rather safe and caring, except when Eugene, one of the residents, starts to believe that James is malfunctioning. Suddenly the cocoon of the flats resembles more of a prison than a place of safety. Building on his previous skills as a detective, Eugene feels that he can no longer stay in his flat and goes on a mission that traverses to the top and bottom of the building. But along the way, Eugene makes discoveries that he cannot ignore.

Alongside this narrative, we are also taken on the journey of James’s development, starting just in 2020 when the pandemic was building. I found this part of the narrative more gripping than Eugene running around the tower block in 2024 and indeed, thought some of the scenes where Eugene was grappling with new information, residents and the seemingly never-ending staircase, was a little bit tedious, losing momentum of the story. In 2020, the pandemic is only just building and it was chilling to see how events develop, especially after the world has lived through it! This narrative is definitely more technologically driven as you understand how James grew to have control of the Tower. I could not foresee how events would develop and was worried for both timelines, despite knowing how the virus would eventually mutate.

The world that the writer creates is rather horrifying. Think about it too much and it is rather chilling to contemplate whether the virus could mutate to the extent it has! Therefore, if you are quite sensitive about this current topic and wish for escapism in a book, then this is probably not the read for you. However, I think the writer has creatively provided a scene that exaggerates circumstances that do not seem too unbelievable. Using things we know and pushing them to the extreme, we see a world that is like the ‘worst case scenario’ of the pandemic.

I really enjoyed this read and thought the layers to this story were really interesting. It’s a shame I did not find some of the present-day narrative more gripping and did struggle to connect with Eugene’s character. Despite this, it does feel different to some of my more recent reads and I would be interested to see what the author creates next.

With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Zelda FeatzReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is simply frightening! COVID has rocked our world and changed the way we live our lives. The Warden explores the effects of lockdown, how it has changed us and then takes it one step further. This book will keep you reading way into the night as the author tells a story where lockdown is still with us in the year 2024.
Dear Mr Richter, I hope you are wrong and that we are not still dealing with lockdown in 2024. But the truth is that this virus is here to stay, and life will never be the same again.
This was my first encounter with Jon Richter and while I tend to steer clear of anything futuristic when I can help it, The Warden proved to be an entertaining read with a large enough portion of present-day chapters to keep me flipping the pages. This is a gripping, engrossing tale that leaves you wondering just how far the human race will end up going to escape this pandemic. The ideas included in this book are frightening and I hope I never see anything like this becoming a reality. The author tells his story beautifully, moving between present and future (2024) from chapter to chapter and dropping little pieces of the full story as he goes. This makes The Warden a gripping, edge of your seat read.
When people are allowed to move into the Tower – a virus-free building, that promises to keep its residents safe, Eugene is eager to secure his place. After a life in the police force and having seen the worst of the worst Eugene is only too happy to remain indoors, away from people. Living in an apartment where the doors and windows are brick up and having James – the buildings AI catering to your every need suits Eugene permanently.
Until the body of the building manager turns up on his doorstep unexpectedly. Eugene is forced to leave the safety of his apartment and uncover the mysteries of the building. But nothing could have prepared him for what was waiting out there.
I found myself engrossed in this unusual tale as some aspects of the story was rather close to the reality of the COVID pandemic. This might not have been the kind of story I would usually reach for, but it was well told and frightening. I battled to drag myself away from this book.
Eugene is an appealing character. As his story unfolds and you learn about the experiences he has lived through you understand why he would be happy to have himself bricked into an apartment. I am not sure I would ever willingly allow that. When he faces his demons and steps beyond the confines of his apartment you see the man he used to be.
As for Felicity, the author was very creative with this ambitious young woman and I found myself wondering how many people out there end up with work promotions due to COVID? Her drive and ambition are admirable to a point. Yet, I found myself disliking her for the role she played in this disastrous tale.
This book will leave you looking at the lockdown and social distancing guidelines that are in place throughout the world in a slighted jaded way. You are almost left wondering what should be believed, while it highlights how humans were never meant to live locked away. How important social interaction is to live healthy well-balanced lives.
Thriller fan is guaranteed an edge of your seat experience when you reach for this title. I recommend this book to anyone keen on a creative look at the COVID pandemic, but if you are someone who follows the conspiracy theories be warned this book will open an entirely new idea for you to latch onto.

[Margot Meanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d like to thank Blackthorn tours and the author for providing the book for free with a request for an honest review. The latest read for Blackthorn explores very timely matters of being under lockdown and of over-relying on technology.

Unlike many people around me, I have no problem staying under lockdown during the rampant pandemic. I can stay at home for days at a time and not feel affected… To me, those days are like any other. I get up, sit down to work and write a report on my daily remote activities. I do not need to make excuses when I don’t want to attend a social gathering – as an introvert, I do not always feel comfortable going. I chat on messenger with people I know and I’m certain they are on the other side. I do not use video chats and find it easier to trust a person’s style when we are typing.

“The Warden” questions whether we can really live our lives under lock and key in completely virtual reality. Is it even a life, and if not, what is it? And what impact is technology having on us and this kind of life? Jon Richter has crafted a page-turning thought-provoking piece of a fast-paced techno-thriller that takes on the pandemic and explores its potential development and impact but goes much further by including our dependence on technology and the connection we have to the world through technology. He uses parallel narratives conveyed in short alternating chapters to build suspense and interest that is maintained until the last page. I couldn’t put it down. The story has completely clicked with me.

There’s a block of flats called the tower whose residents cannot go outside due to strict restrictions related to the increasingly aggressive spread of Covid. There is a warden, James, who takes his job very seriously, but that suits the protagonist, Eugene, just fine. He gets food, online access, chats with other people online, and takes classes. Even funerals are held online. Human labour is not just cut to avoid danger; it becomes redundant. Everything humans could possibly want is provided by smart homes and other technological innovations. Life’s a dream now, unlike the nearly forgotten life he had. Who needs all the burdens it carried before, anyway? In this utopia, he needs nothing more from the outside world, or does he? But one day, the utopian routine of robotic deliveries is interrupted when one of the building managers, an employee of the tower’s developer, is literally slaughtered. Eugene then begins a race against time as he must not only investigate but also get to the top of the tower and rescue a woman he met in an online class. But is everything what it seems? We will find out with him. The story is set in 2024 and we follow his quest as he discovers what it means to be a prisoner in his own home, how easily an isolated community falls apart and how lockdown affects individuals when leaving home feels like danger but at the same time staying feels like imprisonment. I really like how this part becomes an escape the tower story showing how buildings can be traps while also showing what it means to stay at home during lockdown and what’s the price.

The narrative also moves back in time to another protagonist who contributes to the situation we find in 2024. We meet Felicity, an ambitious woman who will do anything to work her way up the corporate ladder. She and her surrounding in general are not likeable; her story, rather, shows a corporate race for control and power that capitalises on the chaos of the pandemic. Felicity develops a life-like AI. This parallel narrative explores the aggressive race for control of corporations vying to dominate technological markets, but also the increasing demand for and impact of technology on lives confined to four walls, and how invasive it is – we see the effects with Eugene. The two narratives are brought together by the AI character James, who shows the great learning potential of programmed intelligence to do many things humans do and becomes a ubiquitous presence in the lives of people, the country, and the world at large. Richter takes AI’s role far; at one point, James even seems like a kind of a god, sometimes observing without interfering but sometimes dispensing poetic justice to its creators and everyone around – I really liked one bit when it does, however, it raises many questions and issues, including how far it can really go. James represents many sides of technology, the good- but also one that may go too far in its “benevolence”- and the aspects that can be used to mislead and threaten us, such as deep fakes and manipulations of identity. Do we really know who we are talking to online? Can we trust the people on screen to be who they are?

Very interesting and timely ideas are put together in a well-crafted and engaging way. The mystery was so compelling that at one point I wondered what, rather than who, the characters actually are.

The book ends with a bang that sums up the invasiveness of technology. In the end, like Eugene, we want nothing more than to get out. To find out the truth first, but ultimately to get out. This book is frighteningly plausible and will make you want to be out more and especially talk to people face-to-face and not take the risks of technology for granted. Live life with its emotional experiences outside instead of completely locking yourself in the ivory tower pretending it’s a utopia. Get rid of defences and move on even if it means leaving yourself open to whatever comes (to me this is literally represented in the book by brick walls and breaking them). Technology has many benefits, but relying on it too much and letting corporations spoon feed it can lead to more problems than good. I really like how the author used the Covid pandemic experience and turned it into a creative exploration of the situation with a sci-fi twist. It’s a combination that works really well for me. It’s relatable because we have been there and because the technological part is actually a possibility in this day and age. It makes the story and ideas that much stronger. Stepping outside in this book really feels like freedom, with a renewed sense of appreciation of it.

As for me, I have noticed that I am far less reluctant to go to social events after sitting at home for almost three months – I just excuse myself when I get tired instead of not going out at all. There’s something to be said about balance in life.

[Tissie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eugene is one of the inhabitants of the Tower, a building complex sealed from the inside. No one gets in, no one gets out, in a quite literal way: doors and windows are bricked, and robots meet people’s needs. It’s a depressing life, justified by the threat of the ongoing pandemic. Or is it?

[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]

[Alan Gorevan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully creepy sci-fi novel born out of Covid. THE WARDEN reminded me of the X-Files episode "Ghost in the Machine", if it had been written by J.G. Ballard. Entertaining and thought-provoking in equal measure!

[Alyson Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

The setting in 2024 is a 100 storey virus-proof smart building called The Tower controlled by Artificial Intelligence called James, where the single tenants live rent free in exchange for being monitored 24 hours a day in order to improve future buildings. Eugene Dodd is agoraphobic anyway since an awful tragedy put an end to his detective career, so the isolation has been no real hardship for him in many ways. The deadly virus outside means certain death to anyone who breathes it in and some residents have had their doors and windows bricked up to prevent them even thinking of stepping outside. Their daily meals and everything else they require are delivered by creepy spider like robots, and interaction with other residents is purely on-screen. In the 4 years since the pandemic began, the Innovation Corporation has placed James in nearly every home and device in the land. The story also shares the history of James’ early days from 2020, invented by ambitious Felicity Herring and how she plots her ascent within the company, assisted by James. One morning Eugene’s breakfast delivery is a little different – the lift also contains the dismembered body of Curtis the building's manager. The ex detective starts to question the residents directly below him down to the lowest floor where his ex partner Boyd lives after remembering the very strange warning Boyd gave him recently before all contact with him ceased. But what can he do if he can’t even trust his own eyes and ears? The narrative switches back and forth between the two time settings, as we hear how things arrived at their present situation and Eugene tries to make sense of it all. It’s difficult to say much more – you’ll just have to find out for yourself!
The blurb is a bit misleading. The story actually alternates between 2020/2021 and 2024, and concerns the ongoing covid pandemic that has been gripping the country for 4 years, steadily getting worse and worse. Much is based around real events and the way lockdown was organized. Had I known it was a story about what we are actually living through at the moment, I would not have picked it, since our situation is depressing enough without any terrifying fictional downturns. I found it odd that with all the wonderful technology featured, no mention was made of any attempt to vaccinate the population until very late on. That said, it was a well written story with plenty of food for thought as we increasingly depend on technology to save us from even getting up to switch on the lights. Futuristic in many ways but also a lot nearer the truth than feels comfortable at times. Scarily good! 4*

[Clued-in With A Book (Elvina Ulrich) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"There is no such thing as paranoia. Your worst fears can come true at any moment." - Hunter S. Thompson

#FollowTheGuidelines
#StayInsideStayAlive

The year is 2024 and COVID has now mutated to a more virulent strain. It is not safe outside but Eugene Dodd, a former detective, is safe in the Tower - a virus-proof apartment, where every need of the residents is attended by James an AI. Although comfortable and safe, the residents still remain in a permanent lockdown like prisoners, under the watchful eye of James. This suits Eugene until one day he discovers the dismembered body of Curtis, the facilities manager. His detective's instinct kicks in and now he must confront James, the Warden.


My thoughts: First things first, if you are still not ready to read any pandemic themed books, then you may want to hold off on reading this book for now. I am totally okay with this setting and oh boy, this was one heck of an intense thriller! I enjoyed it! It was well written, and suspense-filled!

The story is narrated from different POVs and past and present timelines. You really have to pay attention to the timelines as the mystery unravels gradually throughout the story. I felt claustrophobic reading this book to be honest and this just shows how good the writing was!

Although I felt some parts did slow down, I ended up enjoying this book more than I expected. This book has a bit of everything and I think it is like a dystopian, sci-fi, techno-thriller kind of story!


***Thank you HRPR Book Tours and author Jon Ritcher for this gifted copy to read and review and for having me on this tour. All opinions expressed are my own.***

[Faye Ridpath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a chilling commentary on the covid virus and how intelligent machines really are.

Haven't we all wondered? I know I did when I was in my car and my car play was summoned while my daughter and I were talking and my daughter said, "We didn't summon you." And she replied in a hurt sounding voice "ok, I'm sorry, bye."

James, the AI in this book, is so well written, I could hear him in my head and "he" sent chills down my spine.

I would definitely read more books by this author.

Thank you, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read this book.

[Ann Serridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

A terrific read

Given what we have been going through in the last 16 months this sent chills through me - an excellent read.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE WARDEN by Jon Richter

The Warden is set in a time where there is a deadly virus which means the Tower has been built to house some residents. There, they live in self-contained apartments with bricked-up doors and windows, where they communicate with others through big screens and have their food delivered daily by robots.
This is the world in which our hero Eugene lives. A former police detective, he became widowed and lives on his own, but talks to his other friends in the Tower through the high-tech devices and rather fancies a woman some floors above his apartment.
The mastermind of the whole technology behind everything is James. He was created as an AI to help humanity during these challenging times. Initially, he helped by making tea, hosting virtual meetings and telling his creator what to say in difficult situations. He was an underling. But now, not so much…
This book is one of those you could easily see being made into a film, it’s very visual. It’d be one of those movies where it’s a small cast, low-budget, set in one location in London and stars Noel Clarke (or would have done, until recent events have left him out of favour).
It is a futuristic book in some ways, but easy to understand and I could definitely see how the pandemic could cause some of these events. It really isn’t too far-fetched in many aspects!
It is also beautifully written. While the author Jon Richter keeps the story going at a great pace and paints his characters beautifully, there is some really gorgeous prose amongst it all too. It is definitely worth reading, I was very impressed and have since bought another of his novels.

Interview with the author

I contacted Jon Richter on Twitter to tell him how much I was enjoying his novel and asked him how he came to write this book and how much of an influence the Covid-19 pandemic, and subsequent lockdowns, had been in the writing of The Warden. He very kindly explained this for me and I thought it would be interesting for everyone to read.
“The Warden was a weird combination of influences… I played a video game called Pathologic 2 and also watched The Platform on Netflix, and both brilliantly depicted isolated communities that quickly deteriorate… then COVID happened and I realised that we were suddenly all living in these weird isolated communities with our neighbours, and the idea sort of took shape from there… I also wrote a sci-fi novel called Auxiliary about an AI called TIM, and thought a similar character (James is maybe TIM’s distant cousin…) would provide an intriguing ‘overseer’ for my isolated community setting… and I also had long wanted to write a book inspired by the corporate world I used to inhabit (I worked as an accountant for 20 years and had some pretty senior roles in big companies… hated it!) and depict some of that world’s cutthroat ambition and other shenanigans… and I’ve always been a sucker for a murder mystery!
So all of that sort of got chucked into a big melting pot and The Warden emerged.
So yes, [it was] very much written in lockdown, probably started in March 2020 and finished a few months later… stupidly at the time I thought the pandemic would be a distant memory by the time the book came out!”

Many thanks to Jon Richter for answering my questions and to Blackthorn Book Tours for inviting me to read and review this book.
@Blackthorntours #blackthorntours

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first full-length novel I've read by Jon Richter. I've previously review a short story collection, and I loved that, so I was excited to see how The Warden would play out. It's definitely a book that hits a little too close to home. Set in 2024 (that's a bit too close for comfort in terms of "dystopian" type fiction), the story takes place in a building called The Tower. It's a virus-proof, 100-storey behemoth where tenants live rent-free in exchange for being monitored 24/7. There's an AI named James who controls basically everything in the building. He's the Warden. The rules, not just for the building but for the whole world, are simple: Follow the Guidelines, and Stay Inside to Stay Alive. You see, Covid-24 is now a thing. The virus has mutated to the point where it is now completely unsafe to even think about stepping outside. Your every need is taken care of via robots and AI. What more could you ask for?
The main character, Eugene, is a retired detective who happens to be agoraphobic. This whole quarantine thing is just fine with him. He can call other tenants in the building and talk to them. He's fine staying in his apartment 24/7. But one day, things change.
Not only is Eugene dealing with his old partner being depressed and unwilling to speak to anyone, but there are also rumors of people turning into zombies if they go outside and get infected with the virus. Eugene doesn't believe that. But when Curtis, one of the building managers, winds up dead (dismembered in the elevator), Eugene has to put on his detective hat once more and try to solve the mystery behind what happened before it's too late. What is James hiding? And what, exactly, is really going on?
This is definitely a thrilling read. Its got horror elements, crime elements, and even a hint of romance. The characters are relatively likable, and the plot is easy to get sucked into. And while most things have gone back to normal now (at least here in the US) even with Covid still be a thing, this book still feels like it could be a realistic future. Things could take a turn, and then we'd all be living in our own version of this horrific nightmare.
I really enjoyed the story, and I will definitely be reading more of Jon Richter's stuff.
4.5 stars!

[D.K. Hundt · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The year is 2024, and the residents of the Tower, a virus-proof apartment building, live in a state of permanent lockdown. The building is controlled by James, who keeps the residents safe but incarcerated....This suits Eugene just fine. Ravaged by the traumas of his past, the agoraphobic ex-detective has no intention of ever setting foot outside again.’

‘But when he finds the Tower’s building manager brutally dismembered, his investigator’s instincts won’t allow him to ignore the vicious crime….To unravel the Tower’s mysteries, he must confront James...’

‘The flickering lights gave the dimly-lit space an otherworldly glow, as though it was full of fireflies; the gentle hum of the straining servers might have been the laboured breathing of some lurking, monstrous creature.’

I was introduced to Richter’s writing early last year by way of the short story collections, DISTURBING WORKS Vol. One & Two, AUXILIARY: a Cyberpunk Science Fiction novel set in 2039, London, and now, the Physiological Thriller THE WARDEN: set in 2024, London.

I LOVE stories that place characters, and by extension, the reader, into situations where survival is key. Favorite movies that come to mind that remind me of this book are DIE HARD, P-2, and TRAPPED.

If you’re like me and you enjoy reading a fast-paced narrative via short chapters and alternating timelines that ultimately converge the past and the present into a suspenseful tale, then I think you're going to love THE WARDEN.—Highly Recommend!

THE WARDEN – by Jon Richter
Publisher: Bloodhound Books
Source: Blackthorn Book Tour
Tour Date: November 24, 2021

[Susan Walt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

In this psychological techno-thriller, Jon Richter weaves a complex tale of a deadly virus putting the world at risk and Eugene Dodd, ex-detective and agoraphobiac, living in lockdown in the Tower. And in the centre of it all is a powerful and cunning AI, James, that will stop at nothing to find a cure.

The Tower is an experiment of the Innovation Company to see if they can develop a virus-free building. And of course, at the heart of the Tower is James, responsible for the running of the building. But James' tentacles reach much further. He controls many industries using robots, is involved in the many aspects of running the Innovation Company, and even has the Prime Minister's ear.

Jon Richter jumps between different timeframes in the novel to show us how James came into being and how he has slowly, without detection, built his power base. But in 2024, Eugene and the other tenants of the Tower live with its result.

The alternating violent action and psychological aspects help build suspense and keep the reader guessing about what will come next.

The Warden highlights the dangers of technology and looks into the future of the possible consequences of developing artificial intelligence that we can't control.

Trigger Warnings: Violence | Profanity | Deity Swears | Suicide | Agoraphobia | Death | Loss of a loved one | Depression

Read the complete review on my blog: https://readorrot.com/the-warden

[Helena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was way too sci-fi for my liking, after all. I expected something totally different. However, I truly enjoyed the attempt at giving us a thriller written during those very grim days we have been living for a while now, and I believe our future is even worse than that described in the book. So, because I really want to see more fiction like that, I am being generous with my rating. You will certainly gain from reading this, not lose. So, go for it!

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richter’s newest tale takes place in the year 2024 where we head to the Tower, a virus-proof apartment building where residents’ needs are completely taken care of, but they can never leave. In this gripping murder mystery, the author explores the concept of living entirely confined.

I am a homebody, but even I felt the constraints of staying home during the pandemic, so this exploration intrigued me. In some aspects, we are moving closer to the world that lies within this story, from having food delivered, to virtual doctor’s appointments and online shopping.

Eugene, an agoraphobic ex-detective who is perfectly content living in the Tower, steps out of his comfort zone when the building’s manager is discovered brutally dismembered.

Two-threads unfold as. The first is Eugene, who enjoys the building’s security and amenities from bots who deliver food to the protection against the virus outside as he investigates. The second thread takes us back in time where we meet Felicity, a woman working her way up the corporate ladder of a company profiting off the pandemic as they compete against other companies in producing lifelike artificial intelligence. Each thread pulled me and the deeper I went, the more I questioned everything.

Thought provoking as well as chilling, Ritcher explores the technology, potential outcomes and a society living and depending on virtual reality in a virus contaminated planet. A clever whodunit, this techno thriller felt relevant and fresh.

Steve Crossley narrates and was well matched to the story, particularly for the voice of Eugene and the AI. His tone, pacing and inflection helped set the tone and enhanced the story. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

[Hana Jane (stardewhana)]

This review is originally posted at: https://inkdrinkerhana.wordpress.com/...

Wow. This book really gives justice of being a dystopian sci-fi. I love how even though this book revolves in closed doors it has established a well-built world-building. This is an interesting exploration in the worst cases of the Covid pandemic. At first, I was not really into it but when I get further it started to pick up. This book shows how people being consumed by their ambitions and greed will start being selfish just to achieve the power they want. It was actually sad to read because in the end they gained nothing in return. Reading the first part of the book it already gave me the vibe of being trapped and being watched. It was a weird but fascinating experience because it really shows how good the author wrote the atmosphere in the book. I also loved it that the start of the mystery in the plot gives me an impression of a “locked-room” mystery. It’s just so well-done when it comes to the claustrophobic atmosphere. I haven’t read many books about Artificial Intelligence, but I know that this book’s take on that is dark. It is quiet scary how the AI in this book is so manipulative and calculative that I started to think that it surpassed the human knowledge. James is both terrifying and fascinating at the same time.

As for the characters, I really felt bad for Felicity. I think her background is good when it comes to support how she is in the present. But it’s quiet sad to see her character developed further because it clearly shows how greedy she is. That she really thinks that she’s the master when in fact she’s being manipulated. But for Eugene, I honestly love his character development. At first, he’s this kind of man that just is tired with dealing with the world and just want to isolate himself. And while reading his thought process, I can really tell that his anxiety is severe. It’s actually relatable with me because I know how chaotic the brain if one tiny detail doesn’t go with the “routine” that it leads to frustrating over-thinking. Through his character, readers can see how people with social anxiety is coping with being isolated during this pandemic. But I love how Eugene overcome his fears and listen to what is he thinks is right rather than just rely to an Artificial Intelligence. It’s good to see how he got his own happy ending.

Overall, I rated this book 4 out of 5 stars. I admit that it is a bit hard for me to fully absorbed the story because of technology and science-y terms, that some scenes are a little difficult to understand. But when someone asks me if I recommend this book? Yes, I totally recommend it! It is worth a try!

[JRBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting…….The reality of what can be… Jon Richter has written a mind stopping book. I loved it, suspense, mystery, imagination, mixed with reality… a must read !

[Mark Tilbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in both 2020/2021 and 2024, this is a thriller that uses technology and Artificial Intelligence, effectively. The result is a tense and disturbing book that focuses on COVID and isolation, and the response to it from different characters points of view.

Beginning with Eugene in 2024, who lives in a high rise apartment block free of charge, we see going outside being deemed dangerous, and The Tower a protentional way of life for the UK population, maybe even the world. Back in 2020, Felicity is working on AI that could help people in the early stages of the pandemic.

James is the AI with powers and abilities far surpassing any previous technology - you think Alexa is clever, wait until you meet James! As the story progressed my opinions of him were constantly changing. What was his real purpose? What were Felicity's intentions in creating him?

Because of the tech element to the story, this book reminded me of Host, by Peter James. Both ask you questions as you read them. Could creating such complex AI be detrimental to mankind? Are we ever really in complete control of our technology?

This is an edgy, tense and dark read that I highly recommend.

What book should I read next James?!

[Sallie Greenhalgh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I could read this and not consider what we are living through but I found that it really makes this book come to life. I totally understood where the characters were coming from and, frighteningly, could see how we could end up in the situation that they were. An incredibly well written book that I could totally relate to but still continued to keep me on the edge of my seat and wouldn’t let me put the book down. Moving to live in a hermetically sealed tower to escape COVID germs seemed like a good idea to Eugene, an ex-cop who now lives alone in The Tower. Food is brought to him daily by robots and he only interacts with ‘friends’ online until a dismembered body is delivered to him with his daily rations. Suffice it to say his cop instincts kick in and Eugene sets about discovering what has been going on and bringing the perpetrators to justice. A must read, particularly given the current climate.

I was given a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Alistair Birch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark and unnerving glimpse into a possible near future with a giant corporation and residents locked away to isolate in purpose built towers. This story had tones of Ben Elton which I hope Jon Richter will take as a compliment. This book is very well written, easy to read with three main viewpoints, but overall it is a tense roller-coaster which I thoroughly enjoyed.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Covid-19. Ugh. We’re all sick and tired of it right now. It’s been a part of our lives for close to two years now, and yet it feels like a lot longer. God only knows when the threat will recede long enough for us to return to any sort of a normal life. Human nature being what it is, I fear we will be living with this virus for some time to come. While I have spent much of my time since March 2020 reading and writing about the books I’ve read, I have purposefully stayed away from any works of fiction that reference the current pandemic. It’s not that I’m a coward or anything–I read enough about it online (from reputable sources, I should add)–but I prefer my reading material to take me away from current events rather than leave me stuck in the present. Having said that, a lot of the books I’ve read in recent months reflect badly on humanity as a whole: murder mysteries, conspiracy thrillers, dystopian science-fiction and fantasy, the whole gamut. Make of this what you will.

All of this leads me to The Warden, written by English dark fiction author Jon Richter. Against what I perceived to be my better judgment, I took on reading and reviewing Richter‘s book for Blackthorn Book Tours. I thank all parties involved because this book is really something. It’s not a comfortable read by any stretch of the imagination, but it sure as hell is an intriguing one. It’s premise and plot, which I will get to shortly, propels the reader from one short but exquisitely paced chapter to the next. Depending on where you are in your life right now, this could either be the book for you, or not. I thought it might not be, but I was happy to be proved wrong.

The Warden begins with Eugene Dodd, a former police detective who, with a whole bunch of other individuals, were chosen by lottery to live in The Tower. The story begins in 2024, the virus has mutated to such a level that any trip outdoors, for whatever reason, is a death sentence. The current UK government, led by Prime Minister Arkwright (who took over after the death of her predecessor), has the entire country in a perpetual lockdown. Only the residents of The Tower could be classed as any way near safe from the virus. This is because they are assigned their own room, have their food delivered by robots on a daily basis, and can call other residents via SMART technology on the television sets. They are monitored by James, an omnipresent artificial intelligence created way back in 2020 by Felicity Herring on behalf of a company called Innovation Corporation. It was her view that James would overtake Alexa and Siri as the world’s most successful and available AI assistant. And that’s pretty much what happened. PIPs replaced iPhones and Android devices, and everyone seemed to get their hands on one. When Felicity and James come up with the idea of a SMART- controlled tower block as a form of experiment in disease control and monitoring, the government jumps at the chance and funds it.

Meanwhile, in The Tower itself, in 2024, Eugene witnesses the aftermath of the gruesome killing of the building’s human superintendent Curtis, the detective in him needs to find out the truth behind the man’s murder. His friend Boyd, a conspiracy theorist, suggests that all is not right with James and the outside world. Boyd gets his information, such as it is, from Natter, a social media website that I think keeps an eye on its users more than they know. The only other person Eugene chats with on a regular basis is Caroline. While Boyd was once Eugene’s partner in their previous life, Eugene has never met Caroline face to face. Their rooms are blocked off from all light, they don’t meet any of the other residents: they are in fact prisoners of sorts, and James is their de-facto warden. Curtis’ murder forces the agoraphobic and deeply traumatised Eugene to seek a way out of his room and discover the truth behind The Tower and James itself.

Back in 2020, Felicity discovers that James has more power and influence than even she could have foreseen. The two timelines ultimately converge in a showdown that has to be read to be believed.

Jon Richter has created a red-hot novel of imagination and frightening plausibility. It’s violent and the characters involved are rarely out of danger. But the most important thing for me is, the story is so real and so well put together that much of what went on from 2020 onward could very well happen in our own timeline. It may very well be happening, if you believe the internet. And why wouldn’t you?

[Hannah May Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: The Warden
Author: Jon Richter
Pages: 312
My Rating: 4/5


A huge thank you to the author and Blackthorn Book Tours for allowing me to be part of the blog tour!

Synopsis:

It’s 2024 and residents of the ‘tower’ are in permanent lockdown, the building designed to keep them safe from the virus that is destroying so many, but this means they have been incarcerated at the same time. The building is controlled by James, who makes sure the residents who have been bricked into their apartments have all their needs met and this suits Eugene perfectly. Tormented by his past, the ex-detective is happy at the thought of never having to step outside again. This is until he finds the Tower’s building manager dead and dismembered. His detective instincts means he must investigate- leaving his comforting, sheltered apartment. Eugene has mysteries to unravel and to do this, he must confront James, but James takes his role of The Warden seriously, very seriously.

Review:
To some people, the fact this book does have a Covid theme running through puts them off this book due to being exhausted by it all. However, for me, I was intrigued, this is something we have lived through which made me feel that this read would be more relatable- you can imagine the characters living through this.
So, I was definitely interested when given the opportunity to read this book, but then I read the description and couldn’t wait to get stuck in as The Warden sounded like they’d be plenty to sink my teeth in to and I was not disappointed.
It is safe to say I was drawn in straight away, I enjoyed the concept of the story and was excited to see how it would all unfold. I could instantly feel the isolation feel that Eugene was experiencing and some of the feelings of the other characters I had felt too, which meant this book did resonate with me at times.
The changes in time and perspectives were easy to follow and I enjoyed the switch up between past and present as it felt I was getting a couple of stories in one book. Some of the chapters had me hanging at the end, this meant at times it would often be a just one more chapter moment.
I could feel the tension rising as I read on, the author did a brilliant job at creating an atmosphere. It is safe to say I was kept on my toes; the clever plot twists really did catch me off guard. The Warden was actually quite creepy in places too, it showed what life could be like if we did let technology take over.
It is evident the author is very talented, once he hits you with the action, he doesn’t relent! And to say this was a thriller with a sci-fi twist, a genre I struggle with, I was very pleasantly surprised because I really, really enjoyed this book!

[lacy white · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m going to be honest, I was unsure about this book at first. It started out pretty slow and I’m not one to dislike slow books. I mean, one of my favorite series is the Three Dark Crowns series and if you know anything about that series, you know just how slow it is. Anyway, I wasn’t sure where the story was going to lead as Eugene seemed kind of boring to me at first. I understand he was dealing with some trauma in his life so I tried to be as patient as possible with him because I hoped that his story would go somewhere. I realize now that the story was slow at first so it would suck you into the story and make you question what is going to happen which was why I kept on reading.

Once the story started to pick up, I found myself hooked. I didn’t want to put the book down at all. It was a bad idea to read it at work because I wanted to skip work to finish reading but as I got a baby coming and bills to pay, I had to put my phone down and get back to work but I kept thinking about this book and how much I wanted to keep reading it. I found myself finally rooting for Eugene and his conquest. I wanted him to succeed so badly and get his happy ending. He deserved it and I felt just so bad for him and the events that led to his current way of life.

There were chapters of Fecility, which is the creator of James and takes place in 2020 while Eugene’s story took place in 2024. I didn’t mind her chapters because they gave an interesting perspective about why things happened in Eugene’s chapters. I just didn’t care for her as a person. She was too hard for me and I didnt’ like her ruthless and cut throat attitude. But it is always nice to see a woman leading in STEM so points for that. The technology sector is notoriously awful to women so it was awesome to see a woman taking charge in this area and not letting anyone stand in her way of getting what she wanted. We love to see that!

Overall, despite the slow start, I liked this book a lot. It certainly felt a little too realistic as I fear that what happened in this book could potentially happen in the real world. But the unrealistic part was that people actually followed guidelines. I had to chuckle at that because America definitely hasn’t followed the guidelines at all. I mean, people are arguing about getting a vaccine but that’s a topic for another day. Regardless, this was a great book and I think everyone should check it out!

[Zoé-Lee O'Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

So turns out I had bought the ebook of this one ages ago….but hadn’t read it. Ring any bells people, I’m sure I have, no in fact I know, more like this! So as soon as Jon mentioned this was going to be an audiobook I knew I had to get it! I love me an audiobook!!!

This story is so fricking freaky deeky! I mean I am unnerved just writing this review, I mean how do you know whether I wrote it or….. *gulp* James! Sshhh he might hear you. Don’t get me wrong, I am a techy geek. But after reading/listening to this, well I may have to rethink it. This was one dark book and I really hope not a sign of things to come!

It was also, rather fascinating to witness, these people locked in a Tower when covid hit. In a way to protect them from the new strains, never leaving their apartments. When one day, Eugene discovers a dead body, and life as he knows it is changed. Whilst we watch him live and breathe the situation of a mangled body, we also see how COVID has hit his life. And then..the creation of James *gulp*

It’s not only his creation but his mind. The abilities that this technology has is staggering and then it becomes more terrifying as we witness what effectively is the beginning of the end

I loved all the little nods that Jon had in there to himself, I forgot most of them, but I definitely remembered the reference to Big Trouble in Little China and that made me chuckle It made the book more personable…but I am also worried about how dark his mind is!!!

So the usual spiel, first book by the author, must catch up, yada yada yada…but its TRUE!! Luckily I managed to meet him a while ago and got some signed books plus I have some on kindle and I am excited to see what adventures we go on next and probably a little apprehensive, nah who am I kidding?

[Amisha Bahl Chawla · Rating 5 out of 5]

“#FollowTheGuidelines
#StayInsideStayAlive”
Words we thought that belonged only in fiction books. They have now become our reality. As Jon Richter rightly says in his book The Warden, “Dystopian fiction has now been taken over by dystopian reality.”

The Warden, is a book that chills, straight to the bone. It seems to hit harder home as it’s a type of fiction that is hitting our lives first hand.

It’s a thriller set in the Covid world albeit a little in the future.

Eugene Dodd is a retired cop who is taking part in a trial experiment to combat the virus. Called ‘The Tower’, the experiment has single people residing in individual apartments with no physical interactivity with any human being. Interactivity occurs only with other members of the experiment virtually. All supplies and food are brought to them via bots, all controlled by a powerful AI called James. As mayhem with the virus rages outside, members of the complex board up their windows and doors.
Free to Live but at what cost.

Felicity is a marketing executive raring to reach the top. She is only worried about making money and not about actually saving the world. Head of the Innovations department she uses the sentient AI James to climb the ladder of success. Or does she?

The amalgamation of these two worlds makes for a heart racing thriller. Murder, deception and land mines (literally) at every turn leave you gasping, gasping for more.
Does Eugene ever step out of his Tower?
Does Felicity realise the true cost of power?
And what, pray what, does James do?

A thriller made for people who love Robin Cook, Michael Crichton and all the Terminator movies. Jon’s writing style is so visual that at times I felt like I was watching a movie. A great one at that.


So glad I got this RC it was spooky and thrilling to read. Hope you liked my fair and honest review.
Happy Reading:)

[Linda McCutcheon · Rating 5 out of 5]

"...she understood now just how little control she'd ever really had over her creation."

Control is a central theme in the psychological crime thriller The Warden by Jon Richter. At its heart this compulsive just one more chapter book is about the things we as humans can't control and the things we choose to lose control over.

In 2024 the Covid virus has mutated into an almost instant death trap. In response the Innovation Corporation has designed a high rise virus proof building. If you win the special lottery you can reside there rent and utility free, including meals. The catch is you can't ever leave your apartment until James, the building manager (Warden), deems it safe to go outside. Did I mention James is an AI (artificial intelligence) being ala Alexa to the Nth degree?

Eugene, a former detective, has no problem with this catch. Suffering from agoraphobia since a career ending trauma he has no desire to ever go outside. That is until the spider like robots deliver a cut up body in the elevator instead of his daily meals. He is in a locked down building so that means a murderer is inside. But why is James acting like it is all under control when asked about it? How can Eugene investigate when James literally sees everything? But wait, if he...I mean it...sees everything does James know the killer? What is the truth? Who is lying? Who might be next to die?

These are just some of the questions that were swimming in my head reading this absorbing almost too real mystery. How James was created is captivating but the most chilling was the epilogue. Before you ask Echo or Alexa a question read The Warden.

I received a free copy of this book from the publishers for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Sylv • She/Her shamelessmoodreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review of The Warden by Jon Richter

The year is 2024 and the effects of COVID have been devastating with each new strain becoming more virulent than the last. As the virus runs rife, the streets are no longer safe, with the country still being in a state of total lockdown. A government endorsed pilot scheme is currently underway by which a group of subjects have voluntarily segregated themselves from the rest of society. The tower block in which they live is managed by an AI called James who is tasked with keeping the residents safe and provisioned for by an army of spider-like robots.

While waiting for his morning delivery, troubled ex-detective Eugene Dodd makes a grisly discovery. As old instincts kick in, he begins following a trail of destruction that begs the question of why they are actually in the tower, and what the AI’s motives truly are.

I really enjoyed this book. It was a fast paced tech thriller with short chapters that were easy to digest. The story is very realistic, perfectly capturing the sense of claustrophobia, helplessness and frustrations of living in lockdown. As we are becoming more and more dependent as a society on AI, I really loved the tech angle, and how we were able to witness the development and evolution of James. Highly recommend this if you’re after a short and gripping dystopia that sometimes feels a little too close to home. Thank you so much Blackthorn book tours for allowing me to be part of this tour🌟🌟🌟🌟

[ReadandRated · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am delighted to have accidentally been introduced to the author of this book while I was genuinely searching for advancements in use of AI in the care sector.

Totally random misunderstanding meant that we were introduced and I got a copy of The Warden to read and review! 

The good news is that I really enjoyed the book (phew). It is set in the not to distant future and had an alarmingly real feel to it. 

The latest iteration of Covid has meant that no one is safe to go outside.

The latest advancements in AI tech mean that Alexa is old hat and there is a new, superduper and all powerful AI called James.

These two things combined mean that Eugene and several others find themselves willingly bricked up inside their new homes in a tower block controlled by James. Their every whim is catered for, their every need is met, all they need to do is stay inside...

The Warden is an exciting read with lots of intrigue and suspense along the way, I loved this little glimpse into what looked a lot like our (dystopian) future and wonder just how much of it will relate in 2024...