Lexicon

It's a world where “poets” can hack the primitive linguistic centres of the brain to directly access our human OS. Once an individual's numerical segment is identified, base words can bypass our natural defences and render us compliant to command.

And segmenting has become easier in this connected world of online quizzes, Facebook likes and browsing patterns. We are ripe for coercion. The more data we willingly hand over, the easier we are to categorize and mould.

The Organization trains individuals in this hidden language to persuade. They just need to find able prospects. Enter street hustler Emily Ruff, who is identified and offered the opportunity to hone her skills. Running parallel to her story is that of Will Park, who we meet in an airport bathroom with a needle jammed in his eye. The two are somehow connected to the complete and utter devastation of the town of Broken Hill.

Incredible conceit. My only complaint is that it couldn't maintain it's pace throughout. It's a jangled open and a weak close that bookends a meaty thriller in-between. A wild ride nonetheless. I always knew Eliot was a badass.

PS. I'm a cat person.