The potential ramifications of a seemingly innocuous gesture on a person’s life are difficult to predict. Even seemingly trivial actions can have a ripple effect that lead to significant transformations. Alexandru Czimbor’s The Soul Machines revolves around the discovery of a prestigious object and the turbulent journey of a young protagonist named Tudor. His deliberate choice launches a sequence of events that propel him on a transformative journey, ultimately altering his life’s trajectory. 

Tudor discovers a concealed object and retrieves it despite his mother’s objections. While transporting the device to his residence, Tudor encounters Count Richter, whose family have been retrieving and studying these objects for generations. The count calls the device “amplifier of emotions” or “amplemot”. He assigns Tudor the responsibility of guarding the device until the count returns to Transylvania to retrieve it. 

Tudor enlists the assistance of his friends, Roli and Sami, to assist him in concealing the device until the count’s return. However, chaos ensues when the bishop becomes cognizant of the existence of the amplemot and endeavors to acquire it. The complexity of the narrative intensifies as the bishop’s nephew experiences amorous emotions towards a young woman whom Tudor also holds affection, leading to disastrous circumstances. 

The book explores themes pertaining to the escalation of a hostile political climate and the systemic oppression experienced by individuals from marginalized social classes and ethnicities. The depiction of social inequality and the challenges faced by the characters exhibit the harsh realities of life for these characters. The story delves into various other themes such as socialism, classism, and religion. The author adeptly integrates these themes into the narrative, offering a stimulating analysis of the prevailing societal concerns of this period in history. 

The author’s persuasive tone and language are prominent features that inspire readers to support the characters. The author employs vivid descriptions and relatable characters to construct a fictional universe that engrosses readers in its entirety. The integration of significant historical content into the narrative not only enhanced the story’s intrigue and style, but also the plot. 

While this book would be recommended to a broad readership for its important historical content, it is advisable to exercise caution for individuals who are sensitive to violent scenes. The story exhibits prominent aspects, including its recognition of diverse races and social classes, triumph over adversity, and its thorough exploration of historical events and concepts relevant to the era. 

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

https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/the-soul-machines-alexandru-czimbor#review