The Ferryman: A Novel by Justin Cronin

In Justin Cronin's gripping standalone novel, readers are transported to the secluded island utopia of Prospera, a haven shielded from the deteriorating world outside. Founded by the enigmatic genius known as the Designer, Prospera thrives as a sanctuary where citizens bask in fulfilling lives—until their embedded monitors signal retirement below 10 percent, prompting renewal in the mysterious Nursery.

Proctor Bennett, a ferryman in the Department of Social Contracts, oversees the retirement process, even enforcing it when necessary. His seemingly idyllic existence shatters when dreams, deemed impossible in Prospera, haunt him, and his monitor percentage nosedives. Summoned to retire his own father, Proctor receives a cryptic message that catapults him into a journey unraveling Prospera's hidden truths.

Simultaneously, dissent simmers among the Support Staff, questioning their societal roles. Whispers of the Arrivalists, a resistance group, heighten tension. Proctor, once loyal, unravels a complex web of deception. As he probes the mysteries, he confronts a cause larger than anticipated, entangled in a mission to unveil truth and challenge Prospera's carefully constructed reality.

Stephen King lauds the novel as "next to impossible to put down," emphasizing its excitement, mystery, and overall satisfaction. Infused with dystopian elements, a protagonist questioning reality, and exploration of utopian ideals, the narrative offers a profound examination of the human condition, questioning the consequences of pursuing perfection in a seemingly flawless world. Cronin's prose weaves a compelling tapestry of suspense, revelation, and the enduring pursuit of truth within the intricate confines of Prospera. ❤️📚❤️