This story starts out with a lot of your basic dystopian stuff. Tyrannical priesthood, gas masks, barbed wire on the fences. But what you don't expect--and what you get--is the sheer intensity of emotion in here. 'Artifacts' is a beautiful declamation of the artifacts of the human soul--guilt, fear, anger--and the damage they can do, the pain inherent in the cycle of abuse. Mr. Buchheit's characters struggle to learn the power of forgiveness and mercy, and their struggle is the thing that drives this story and makes it work. These folks might not always feel like what you identify as 'good guys', but you wind up respecting them all the more for what they've overcome and accomplished.

This story is not for you if you want some light beach reading. If, however, you want an emotionally resonant story with semi-allegorical dystopian dressing, read on. A beautiful story in a setting just as sparse, jagged, and haunting as its character arcs. Highly recommend. :)

This captivating story is hard to put down. The characters and places are so vividly portrayed they practically pop off the pages. The story also beautifully addresses some difficult issues as the characters of the sci fi world deal with very real world issues. It opens the gateway for discussions as well allows the reader to feel a wide range of emotions. I find myself quite attached to these characters and hope there is more to come! Very much worth the read.

— LP

This is a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel, but reading it is more like looking into real past history. It is very reminiscent of the Middle Ages, with its claustrophobic small world and narrowly religious view. The people in this small town are uneducated and course. The only type of education seems to be a religious one. When ignorance is combined with fervor, it is not surprising that violence simmers close to the boil.

Can any oppressed people remain so forever, without at least attempted rebellion? History seems to say no.

This book certainly looks at the down side of religion. If you yourself are religious you might not like it, or even be offended. Also, if you come from a small town this book may not be to your taste. On the other hand, in both cases, you might completely agree with it.

I felt for the character in this story and certainly wished them well in their struggles. There is action in this novel, but it is mainly a people book, exploring, friendship, trust, honesty, ignorance, doubt, etc. -RM