Holy Fire by Bruce Sterling is a thought-provoking cyberpunk novel set in a future where medical technology has extended human lifespans, but at the cost of societal stagnation. The story follows Mia, a 94-year-old woman who undergoes an experimental rejuvenation process, emerging as a young, vibrant version of herself. As she explores art, freedom, and identity in a world dominated by longevity and control, Holy Fire examines the clash between youthful rebellion and a rigidly conservative society. Blending biotechnology, philosophy, and Sterling’s sharp social commentary, the novel is a vivid meditation on aging, creativity, and what it means to be truly alive.

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