Since Michael Crichton’s State of Fear was published 20 years ago, novels skeptical of climate alarms have become an endangered species. Most novels dealing with this subject reinforce the false notion that the world is on the verge of apocalypse.
That’s why it’s both fun and refreshing to read Jon Pepper’s latest novel, Hostile Climates , the fifth book in his entertaining and insightful Fossil Feud series. Pepper takes aim at the topic with a keen eye and finds ample space to mock the doomsday narrative that dominates the media, government, and popular culture.
Pepper's story follows Lindsay Harper-Crow, chairman of a global energy company, who becomes the target of an ambitious politician's campaign for higher office. Like many large energy companies, Lindsay-based Crow Power has been blamed for climate change. The cruel law against her found enthusiastic support in New York City, where residents have no idea where the heat and electricity come from.
Lindsay was put on trial, much to the delight of campaigners who gathered outside the courthouse daily to demonstrate its moral excellence. But as the story unfolds, it looks like the activists’ greatest wish may become the city’s greatest nightmare — especially if Lindsay’s corporate assets are seized and run by the state.
The book is topical and relevant, with an interesting mix of humor and drama. Astute readers will note that this story is inspired by real events, presenting a chilling prospect of what happens when climate change ideology collides with the reality of delivering essential services like heat, light and power during extreme winter weather .
Hostile Climate has the enthusiastic support of prominent climate realists such as Judith Curry, who calls it
“Smart and wicked entertainment…a well-informed and insightful message about how the rush to stop using fossil fuels without adequate alternatives is the real climate crisis.”
Although “Hostile Climate” explores complex issues, Pepper has created an accessible, engaging book that is a welcome break from the often dour tomes on the subject. Given the unmistakable message of “Hostile Climate,” it's also a must-have book for today's time.
The book is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, major booksellers in the UK, Canada, Australia and around the world, as well as independent bookstores in the US.
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