Book Review: "Bell Tower"
- marthaengber
- May 19
- 2 min read
This near future science fiction story by Raphael Pond is an allegorical tale for our technologically-fraught times!
The BELL TOWER begins with Sasha Sumzer, a mysterious meditation teacher who also happens to be the son of the man who created Axiom, the social media powerhouse that created Glow Domes, contact lens computer screens that allow people to zone out at any time, which they do.
Sasha means to free the masses from their dependence of the all-consuming technology, and the brain numbing work they perform at Scrolling Centers, through a form of meditation practice he calls Solosis, which fosters empathy, allowing people to reconnect.
When he turns up one day to visit his estranged brother, Hugo, Sasha talks about buying up defunct bell towers in towns across the land as part of his plan, which initially appears to be positive and healing. But that assumption is soon called into question.
The story convincingly portrays an eerie near future with technology that could plausibly replace smartphones. As a fan of expanding empathy in the world, I found the premise fascinating. Couple that with the suspense of the mystery — does Sasha really mean to use Solosis for good? — and the story really moves along.
You can also read this review on Goodreads.
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SCATTERED LIGHT, a novel, sequel to WINTER LIGHT (Nov. 2025)
THE FALCON, THE WOLF AND THE HUMMINGBIRD a historical novel
BLISS ROAD, a memoir
WINTER LIGHT, a novel, in paperback and audiobook
THE WIND THIEF, a novel
GROWING GREAT CHARACTERS, a resource for writers
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