Coincidence that I read this after China Mieville and Quantum Thief ... because this seems to be a powerful influence on them. Major difference being it's really, really good. I'm grabbing Light and Viriconium by Harrison and if they're of the same quality, he may just be my favorite current sci-fi writer. Heavy on the "writer". I found it laughable that Embassytown and Quantum Thief were praised for the quality of their prose; they were lumpy, awkward, uninvolving. The writing in Nova Swing compares favorably to great literature regardless of genre. The science, the tropes of starships - altered physics - omnipresence of code - bodies as genetic playthings - massive military / industrial brands, are there ... but worn lightly.

Harrison is where the hype should be.