Not So Dead: A Sam Sunborn Novel
- nicolasmercadovald
- May 1
- 3 min read
5 Star Review

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Editorial Book Review:
By Solange Roe
Charles Levin delivers a gripping and conceptually bold debut in Not So Dead, a techno-thriller that challenges the boundaries between life and digital consciousness. With a visionary premise and an unrelenting pace, this novel establishes Levin as a serious voice in speculative fiction, capable of weaving technology, philosophy, and suspense into an unforgettable narrative experience.
Levin’s prose is precise and purposeful, skillfully integrating introspective moments into a fast-paced narrative. This technique maintains the story's momentum while effectively conveying intricate scientific ideas. The plot progresses effortlessly, transitioning between intense corporate intrigue, emotional depth, and tense confrontations with a powerful antagonist known as the Leopard. Levin's expertise in technology contributes to the story's tension by enhancing the world-building and imbuing it with a real-world plausibility.
Not So Dead is fundamentally a contemplation of the essence of humanity in a time of rapidly evolving artificial intelligence and digital memory. The novel delves into timeless questions, especially through the character of Sam Sunborn and his effort to transfer human consciousness into cyberspace. It probes deep issues, such as whether immortality is worth the loss of identity and whether technology can truly replicate the soul. The story transcends the boundaries of a traditional thriller, functioning instead as a stimulus for discussion, addressing ethical and emotional dilemmas that remain both timeless and relevant in today’s world.
In a world that is being increasingly influenced by algorithms and surveillance, the book confronts fears of loss, control, and existential relevance, which resonates emotionally. Levin skillfully maintains the human essence at the heart of the story, ensuring it is not overshadowed by technological themes. The reader is left with a sense of both exhilaration and introspection, encouraging them to reflect on their own digital footprint and the enduring nature of personal identity in a virtual world.
Not So Dead is not merely an engaging read; it is a compelling examination of the future that appears to be uncannily close.. Levin's novel is distinguished by its adept integration of ethical tension, emotional depth, and scientific intrigue.
About the Author
Charles Levin

Charlie is the founder and publisher of the Munn Avenue Press. He and his team of book publishing and marketing experts help turn manuscripts into books into bestsellers. The Munn Avenue Press provides a full suite of services from editing to cover design, publishing worldwide, optimizing on Amazon, and getting books to #1 in their genres.
He gives presentations to business groups and educational organizations on Online Marketing, business management, and the Internet. His avid enthusiasm for these areas makes him a sought-after speaker at corporations, local and international events sponsored by the Young Presidents Organization and at business seminars across the U.S. Charlie was also on the Board of Directors of the World Presidents Organization and President of the area chapter of Business Networking International. As part of his diverse interests, Charlie served on the Governing Board of Directors of the Chicago Art Institute. He is also an avid Poker player.
Charlie coauthored Harvard Graphics in Business, published by Simon & Schuster in 1991 and his presentation on Poker in Business was the highest-rated presentation of the year at the New Jersey YEO Chapter. He also served as editor of two national publications, The Energy Cost Cutter and The Computer Price Alert. Charlie was also one of the first online Editors for the Washington Post.
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