Society of the enlightened

The old nobility in the Continental Empire is losing their status to a new generation of social elites, who have gained status through business or fame. Increasingly radical in their attempts to remain in power, the old nobility competes against the new social elites in the Industrike Tournament, which is crucial for anyone looking to gain fame and support from the people. Rokof Allard is a technically gifted student, desperate to make money for college. As a last resort, he accepts a job offer as technical assistant for one of the new social elites, the Industrike superstar Kanji Park. In this position, Rokof enters an unknown world of glamour and new friends. Meanwhile, several disappearances unfold, connected to the tournament. Rokof soon finds himself involved in the rising conflict with the old nobility. What starts as a search for college funds quickly spirals into a web of deception, where loyalties are tested and motives are darker than they appear. Society of the Enlightened is the first book in Empire of Steam - a dystopian series which examines challenges and conflicts arising from societal development.