Review of Neon Flux (Neo Stellaris, #1) by K.S. McKinney
If you’re like me and have a soft spot for cyberpunk tales, particularly those laced with messy romance, K.S. McKinney’s Neon Flux will grab your attention and hold it hostage. The moment I cracked open the ARC copy, I was whisked away into a world drenched in neon lights, shadowy alleys, and complex characters, rendering a beautifully gritty and chaotic universe that immediately drew me in. Rating this novel a solid 4.5 stars out of 5, I couldn’t help but feel invigorated by the journey.
From the first page, you’re plunged into the immersive world of Neo Stellaris—a place where tech and magic coexist, and the corporate overlords weave their webs into every aspect of life. The stark contrast between the sterile offices of POM and the seedy allure of Magenta’s underground sex clubs paints a vivid picture of a society on the edge, bursting with rebellion and desperation. McKinney’s world-building is nothing short of captivating; you can practically feel the gritty texture of the streets underfoot.
Now, let’s dive into the characters, the heartbeat of the story. Eon, our badass cyberrunner, is one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve encountered. She’s not just a survivor; she’s a deeply flawed human being grappling with overwhelming debt and addiction. Eon’s determination to help others while attempting to keep herself afloat makes her relatable. Her moral ambiguity is refreshing—she doesn’t always make the right decisions, but that adds layers to her character, making her feel undeniably real.
On the other side of this electric spectrum is Cy, the corporate enforcer who may initially come off as an unrepentant jerk but quickly reveals the complexities of his character. His journey from a confident facade to revealing depths of vulnerability as he interacts with Eon adds an engaging charm. Their violent cat-and-mouse relationship evolves into something raw and passionate—juxtaposed by a quote that encapsulates their connection: "I’m not afraid of death… When you look at me, I’m a man—and you’re the only one who’s ever really seen me.” It’s a sentiment that resonates, showcasing how love can be both dark and redemptive.
I also adored the supporting characters, like Maddox, the stoic partner who lends humor, and DITA, Eon’s sassy AI assistant, whose loyalty offers a delightful counterpoint to Eon’s struggles. The interplay among the characters created a vibrant tapestry that kept the momentum alive throughout the book.
While the plot is steeped in conspiracy and deception, what stood out was how McKinney deftly portrayed the moral greys within her world. The anarchists are not idealized either—they’re flawed and occasionally morally ambiguous, which makes the commentary on capitalism and rebellion all the more potent. It’s a fully realized universe where everyone grapples with their darkness, and that human element is why I found it so compelling.
The only small hiccup for me was the sporadic use of Japanese dialogue. While it makes sense, given Cy’s background, at times it felt a bit out of place against the otherwise fluid storytelling.
In conclusion, Neon Flux is a visceral experience that challenges notions of right, wrong, and everything in between. It’s perfect for fans of dark romance, cyberpunk settings, and character-driven stories. If you’re looking for a book that leaves you breathless—both from its action and its passion—then you need to dive into this adventure. The cliffhanger at the end has me anxiously awaiting the next installment, and I can’t wait for more. Happy reading!
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