In a drought-stricken, post-apocalyptic world where two powerful water families rule, the son of the Cambodian water mogul abandons his AI dating empire to launch a bold environmental venture—only to be blamed for unleashing a rainstorm that spawns a dangerous new rival.

"Fans of Wool, The Ministry of the Future, or Dune will love this novel."

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As a fan of dystopian fiction, I was excited to read The Water Carriers. It only took me 20 pages to realize this book was was everything I wanted in a post-apocalyptic world. I couldn't put it down.

Ed Castro

Web Developer

Greunke is a splendid writer. Adroitly crafted, The Water Carriers is a dizzying, dazzling depiction of a thirsty Earth, a kick-in-the-pants reminder of what’s at stake if we don’t act now. Highly recommended for fans of Paolo Bacigalupi’s The Windup Girl and Naomi Alderman’s The Power.

…serious Bond villain energy…If you’re into stories like The Ministry for the Future or Black Mirror, you’ll enjoy this story.

The Water Carriers is a smart, thrilling read that will stick with anyone who loves environmental fiction, political intrigue, or just a well-crafted, high-stakes story.

The Water Carriers is a thought-provoking book that kept me wondering about possibilities for the future of humanity.

The Water Carriers is a sweeping, urgent science fiction novel set in a future that’s devastated by climate disaster but that inches toward the rediscovery of hope.

The Water Carriers is both an engaging and cautionary read; I felt it was encouraging me to reflect on the real-world implications of climate change and resource control.

"First-time author Greunke crossbreeds “cli-fi” SF with the “business novel” genre…the narrative is disquietingly persuasive; read with a cool beverage on hand for best effect."

Writing Notes

The future is not human vs. machine

It’s about humans who know how to work with machines to create better outcomes for all of us. Sam Altman and Jony Ive just announced a partnership to “build a screenless companion that knows everything about you.” Did they read The Water Carriers? In chapter one, I introduced the AI ...

Literary Titan Interview

In April, something incredible happened — I won a Gold Book Award for Fiction from Literary Titan. Yes, a Gold Award! It feels a bit like being an Olympic medalist but without the athletic skills or the shiny tracksuit. This lovely nod was followed by an interview with Literary Titan, ...

Amazon X-Ray for The Water Carriers

Early on, my friend Ed told me I had invented so many words I should start a glossary, which I did. It was fun to watch the list grow as the book evolved. Fantastic ideas were wholly made up, like a food called Butazeri and the incredible device everyone wears ...