SOJALS rating:

Superb (5/5)

I first read this in 1996 and most recently on the 25th August 2006

In this Cyberpunk future world, the libertarian United States has devolved its old duties and responsiblities to private enterprise.

Residential burbclaves run by corporations or carved-out city centres like Mr. Lee's Greater Hong Kong become increasingly competitive and isolationist.

Now a deadly virus is spreading through both the real world and the world of the Metaverse, the future virtual world that replaces our Internet.

Hiro is the best swordsman in the universe. Currently he's delivering pizza, but soon all that is going to change.

What an immense pleasure it is to decide to read this fabulous novel again. Anticipating once again meeting Hiroki Protagonist, the Deliverator, To be with him in his amazing car and on his critical mission. But also knowing that it will all be ok, YT will save him and the pizza will be delivered on time.

And never forget: in the metaverse, he's a warrior prince.

Such a perfect novel. I can't recommend it too highly.