Amygdala

By: Sam Fennah

Narrated by: Sam Fennah

Amygdala is a story of animals, born to a world of swirling, fractal chaos, who learned the art of civilization. Their government was forged in fire, ruled only by the objective truth of all things, with no room for incompetence, mercy, or even morality. Their city, 'The Underbirth', holds within it the greatest collection of animal minds, born of mechanical systems designed to test everything: natural, cultural, industrial selection. Their art is beguiling, their science boundless, their bodies strong and lean and perfect.

And yet, amidst the beauty of a culture ruled by absolute competence, some begin to ask: what is the cost of civilization? When do animals stop being animals? Is there another way?

©2022 Sam Fennah (P)2024 Sam Fennah

The characters designs, and the interesting plot.

I'm a sucker for a good story about differing approaches to life, philosophy, and politics.

Really really good read and audiobook!

I usually don't read novels since I have adhd and it is hard for me to fully sit through a book but this book really grabbed my interest! I would listen to the audiobook and read at the same time and it felt super submersive, especially with the beautiful music and the depth of the characters. The world building is truly captivating and I would highly recommend this book!

the world of the story is alien and beautiful

this story is amazing i can't wait to see were the story is going

Most immersive audio book ever

Fennah's characters are vivid and extremely alive in his performance. They and their world are extremely original. Best ride I've been on in a long time, made me fall back in love with fiction.

bizarre and absolutely captivating

The world is spectacular, intricate, intriguing. The characters are unique and interesting. The story is fantastic, twisting and engaging. There are some eyebrow-raising details, and let's be honest, fetish is deeply encoded in this world and story. I appreciate the veil the author holds over it, though. With choice replacement words and scenes that he only hints at instead of fully describing, Fennah keeps the fetish just covered enough that I can listen without feeling awkward. (I can't say the same for many popular "romantasy" books. Fine if it's your thing, but it's not mine.) The result is a fascinating world and novel that is surprisingly non-sexual for how deeply embedded the fetishes are. Frankly, I love it.
The creativity on display with the character designs is stunning, too! Look up the author's YT channel.
If you're after a strange world that will make you think about politics, corruption, trade, love, religion, individual worth, psychology.... and you're not turned away by some politely obscured and narratively vital fetish, I highly recommend Amygdala.

It won't be everyone's cup of tea, but if it's up your alley I'm sure you'll love it. Even if nothing else, it'll get you thinking.