An intriguing premise, Klova takes on a complex idea wrapped up in an expansive sci-fi fantasy world. Part thriller, part analytic philosophy it’s a compelling blend.
When Inker Ballard wakes one morning after partaking in a virtual “drug” session, he suddenly finds something amiss. Unable to frame his experiences beyond now, his ability to understand the concept of past has been erased. Nothing has changed with his memories; he still knows his partner is dead but his whole life exists in a now always moving forward. It’s terrifying as he can’t understand other people’s words, let alone ideas. Without the language to express his thoughts, those very concepts have ceased to exist.
He’s not alone. Others have come forward with the same linguistic loss. It’s concerning but not widespread. However, it shouldn’t exist. Klova, as a language, is an artificial construct, created hundreds of years previously and protected by the Order. Ihlo, a novice in the Order, has realised that the corruption in the code has some huge implications. The construct is a closed system that allows comprehension without misappropriation. However, her pleas to her superiors fall on deaf ears until she takes drastic action.
These dual perspectives intersect through other actors and help to form a coherent picture of the world, institutions and society. More importantly, it takes on the challenging idea that language is the means to shape thought; that without words, ideas cannot exist as there is no framework upon which they can be expressed. Philosophically speaking, it’s a fascinating concept that Klova does well to explain. But, it’s the investigation around how and who created the corruption that takes centre stage. Ihlo, Inker and Agent Laine all work towards discovering what has happened, each from a unique angle. It’s not until they work together that the pieces begin to slot together.
A clever conceptualisation of a knotty philosophical problem, with some smart red herrings thrown in the mix, Klova manages to blend thriller and sci-fi to create a great story. Wonderful world building, a devastating ending and a thrilling premise, it’s a unique work of fiction.
Review copy
Published independently by The Book Guild
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