My review of Neon Dust: Welcome to the Blast by Plum Parrot:
Tony Santoro wakes up stripped of his augmentations, broke, and surrounded by people who see him as easy prey. If Bert Jones and his daughter, Adelaide, hadn’t taken him in, he might have lost the chance to figure out what happened and why.
by Thio Isobel Moss
4 stars
This is a fascinating read that excels in atmosphere and setting. While ‘Hattan looms in the distance, the story grounds itself in the Blast—its neighborhoods, its gangs, and its fragile sense of community. Some businesses manage to sustain themselves even under the constant pressure of protection payments, and Boxer Corp. maintains a distant but watchful presence. Despite the struggle, moments of kindness and connection persist, giving the world a lived-in, believable texture.
The character work is deliberate and effective. Addie’s motivations and legacy are especially well developed, while Tony’s internal restraint keeps him functional—but at times makes him feel almost too composed. His concerns about his past life, including his girlfriend, fade more quickly than expected. He’s likable, but his emotional arc feels slightly muted.
Beef (Randal) stands out as a highlight. He’s a genuinely morally gray character—dangerous, loyal, and unexpectedly layered. He’s smarter than he lets on and has a dry humor. There’s a sense that he, and even those around him, might be redeemable, which gives him depth and even charm.
The cyberpunk elements are gritty and engaging, with the concept of dust serving as a particularly strong hook. The AI war and recent history provide compelling context, though I would have welcomed a bit more development in those areas. It feels to distant and mysterious even to those living in the Blast.
The dialogue has a slightly retro feel that may not work for everyone, but it remains consistent and intentional. Ultimately, it fits the tone of the story. Historical phrases often re-emerge generations later, though not many realize it.
Where the novel falters slightly is in its structure. The plot resists tightening into a clear central thread, and while there are moments of revelation and action, the climax lacks a strong shift in character perspective or stakes. The resolution arrives quickly, leaving a sense that something sharper is waiting just out of sight.
That said, this looseness also creates momentum. I want to know what happens next. I’m invested in these characters and their futures, and I’ll be impatiently waiting for the next installment. Where Into the Blast works, it’s brilliant and riveting; where it could use some refinement, all that’s required is a little definition.
This story will appeal to readers who enjoy the grittier side of cyberpunk with strong atmosphere, moral complexity, and a focus on survival and connection within an oppressive system. It is rich, immersive, and engaging.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment for the complimentary copy of Neon Dust: Welcome to the Blast via NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
