I’m a huge Fonda Lee fan so I had to read The Last Contract of Isako! And it was one of my favorite books of April! We love this science fiction corporate samurai book. Keep reading this book review of The Last Contract of Isako for my full thoughts.
Summary
Isako is a legendary swordswoman, but every legend has to come to an end. When her long-time client unexpectedly retires, she plans to follow–to walk out into the frozen wasteland of their planet with her head held high and her family enriched by her legacy. But when a competitor offers her a final mission, it’s one she can’t refuse. Soon, she’s thrust deep into a world of corporate espionage, duty-bound duels, and shadowy secrets. What she uncovers will change humanity’s existence in the stars forever.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Fonda Lee’s take on corporate samurai? Let’s go. The Last Contract of Isako is deeply committed to exploring duty, ethics, and making a stand. The motto of “To serve is to love. To live is to die” sets the entire tone. Lee explores how long before we decide to step in, to not allow our desire to fall in line which silences us. We dive into the world of corporations, of what it means to tie our identity to a purpose, a mission, and what happens when corporations end up doing what they do best? There’s bureaucracy, battles, and questionable choices. If you loved this theme in Jade City, then you could be drawn to this one!
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How long do we live by a code before we wonder? The Last Contract of Isako explores when the lines of what we would do keep slipping further away. With an Altered Carbon vibe, I really enjoyed this unique setting. I wish I fell in love with the characters as whole heartedly as in Lee’s previous books, the world and theme ended up getting me. (I wish there was a bit more side character exploration, I love a good side character!). Find The Last Contract of Isako on Goodreads, Storygraph, Bookshop. org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.