Against the Machine Manifesto

By Brian Van Norman

Published by Guernica Editions Cover design by Front cover image by

Against the Machine Manifesto is, without a doubt, the single most powerful historical fiction novel I’ve ever had the distinct privilege to read. It should be on the top of everyone’s reading list of pre-eminently significant books.

Van Norman’s diligence and dedication to detail has created a tour de force exceedingly well crafted and exhibiting an astonishing insight into the intricacies of people’s minds and human nature. The reader will experience a confluence of excruciatingly poignant emotions in an ever mounting, highly charged atmosphere.

It is a tale told from the perspectives of meticulously drawn, strong and well developed characters. You will find yourself empathizing with their profound moral dilemma in pursuit of freedom, justice and basic human rights. Indeed, Van Norman paints such vivid portrayals of even the antagonists’ humanity and their foibles that, at times, you find yourself sympathizing with them in spite of yourself.

It is a tapestry of intrigue and subterfuge woven into the fabric of conflict between the classes and stitched together with the threads of love, passion and courage.

Word Smith, Brian Van Norman is brilliant at creating a sense of realism so powerful you will smell the sweat of fear and experience the rush of adrenaline as if you were witness to the events. He truly is a master of his craft.

Against the Machine: Luddites and Against the Machine Manifesto, when read together, forge a compelling magnum opus of quantum entanglement not only providing the historical support for each other but presenting a disturbing portrait of the human condition.