* Lack of Futuristic Setting or Technology: The story takes place in a contemporary setting with no advanced technology or futuristic elements. The gadgets used are more like modern spy tools.
* Focus on Real-World Threats: The plot centers around real-world issues like terrorism, espionage, and political intrigue. The antagonists are not aliens or supervillains with outlandish powers.
* Emphasis on Action and Suspense: The book is driven by fast-paced action sequences, mystery, and suspense, not scientific concepts or technological advancements.
However, "Stormbreaker" does have some elements that could be considered sci-fi-adjacent:
* Advanced Gadgets: The gadgets used by the protagonists, like the "Stormbreaker" itself, are quite advanced and futuristic for their time.
* Cybersecurity Themes: The story touches on cybersecurity and hacking, which are themes often explored in science fiction.
* Superhuman Abilities: The protagonist, Alex Rider, is a skilled spy with extraordinary abilities, trained to be a weapon, which could be seen as a form of super-humanism.
Ultimately, "Stormbreaker" is primarily a thriller, but it does have some elements that border on science fiction. It's more accurate to describe it as a spy thriller with science fiction elements rather than a full-fledged science fiction novel.