Dex Holzman, a marine biologist living 150 years in the future, is witnessing a changing planet. With millions living in poverty, famine, and illness, governments have introduced a population control program called Mercy where the vulnerable members of society are euthanized. There is a fierce debate between world leaders about scarce resources, people’s health, and establishing effective population control policies. In the midst of all the chaos, Dex learns about an ancient civilization at the bottom of the Coral Sea named Aeternum. Along the way, he uncovers the secret to altering the current trajectory of the planet.

Escaping Mercy by Sam Polakoff is a thrilling story that doesn’t just lay out a hypothetical scenario of the future but also hints at one of the stark realities we face today. With Earth’s dwindling natural resources, global warming, and no other habitable planets discovered yet, the future of the human race is altogether vulnerable. In building a sci-fi scenario, Polakoff also sheds light on our responsibilities today. The book itself is a marvelous work that connects the beginning, plot, and end magnificently, granting enough space to each character and their efforts.

With Escaping Mercy, Polakoff has continued his award-winning work on sci-fi thriller novels following his more accomplished works like Hiatus and Shaman. In this book, he has given the plot and characters substantial attention. Dex Holzman’s treacherous journey towards Aeternum along with civil rights activist Cam Atkinson is full of twists and turns. En route, the duo also uncovers a world leader’s devious plan to cut population numbers and restore Earth’s balance, which adds an extra layer of mystery and thrill to the story.