The Ferryman

In the enigmatic and closed-off universe of Prospera, “The Ferryman” by Justin Cronin, known for his work on “The Passage,” spins a tale of dystopia, moral quandaries, and a brewing rebellion. Although this novel doesn't quite reach the monumental heights of “The Passage” trilogy, it nonetheless stands as a solid and intriguing piece in Cronin's repertoire.

The narrative is built around Proctor Bennett, a man tasked with an occupation that carries a profound level of morbidity—he is the one to escort the ‘retirees' of Prospera to their life cycle renewal. It's a captivating premise, tinged with a sense of dystopian horror.

The plot takes an unexpected and chilling turn when Proctor is charged with the retirement of someone close to him. This event kick-starts a cascade of shocking revelations. Not least among these is Proctor's newfound ability to dream, a phenomenon that is supposedly impossible in Prospera.

Adding another layer of depth to the narrative is the undercurrent of social unrest brewing within Prospera. The support staff, the essential cogs in the machinery that keep Prospera functioning, have begun to question their place in the societal hierarchy.

The palpable tension and the sense of urgency in the narrative are expertly woven with the personal stakes for Proctor. The dipping monitor percentage adds a ticking-clock element to the story, and readers will find themselves compelled to follow Proctor's desperate quest to unravel the mysteries of Prospera.

In essence, “The Ferryman” is an intriguing combination of mystery, dystopian elements, and societal commentary. While it may not reach the towering heights of Cronin's previous works, it remains an intellectually stimulating, suspense-filled journey worth embarking upon for any avid reader.