I read this on the back of a whole spate of Military SF novels, and the fact that I did not find it stale or same old is testament to just how entertaI read this on the back of a whole spate of Military SF novels, and the fact that I did not find it stale or same old is testament to just how entertaining it is. Even though Star Corps is the first in the Legacy trilogy, it is not the first in Douglas’ series dealing with Space Marines. No, these are not Space Marines like you would find in the Warhammer universe. This is an extrapolation of the current Marine Corps, and what it might entitle in the not so very distant future, should mankind explore the stars and find them less than friendly. Some of the basic assumptions of the story are very interesting, even if not entirely new. Aliens that have ruled Earth in ancient times have ferried away a lot of humans for slave labour on distant planets, and even though Earth was liberated, one planet still exists where humans are being used for less-than-honourable purposes. Of course, this cannot be tolerated, so it’s war! I especially enjoyed Douglas’ depictions of the Alien psychology and how they differ from Humans. Is what they are doing really so wrong if it is unacceptable only from a Human point of view (in other words: who died and made Humans the benchmark for morality)? In fact, this is a theme that forms an integral part of the story. There’s a good bit of mayhem in here as well, with a really cool Epilogue promising even more entertainment in book 2: Battlespace: Book Two of The Legacy Trilogy....more
A Hymn Before Battle is the first in the Posleen War saga. The series is also re”War! What is it good for?”
Military Science Fiction does come to mind…
A Hymn Before Battle is the first in the Posleen War saga. The series is also referred to as the Legacy of the Aldenata, which has a nice ring to it. In essence, it’s all about war. The aliens are coming! This theme, of course, isn’t new. Not by a long shot. There are different aliens involved too, some are nicer than others. Some are treacherous. Some are just plain evil. Not having much of a choice (with Earth being next on the menu), humans are pulled into the war on the side of the Galactic Federation, who are being owned by the Posleen in a war of rather extreme proportions. Thankfully, the bad guys in this instance are not bugs. Wow!
So, long story short, humans get handed some nice tech and are sent into the far reaches of space to bite some heel and… guess what? It seems we are better at making war than other aliens in general. Didn’t see that one coming, did you? Mild sarcasm aside, the book is actually pretty darn cool. It has all the tropes, of course. Such as: the top brass in the military are criminally incompetent and short sighted. Sigh. This really does make one wonder about the state of the US military. There is power armour of course. The ACS suits, as they’re called, are really cool, so if you’re a Halo (or other mil-SF with heavy suits) fan you might want to feast your intellect on these.
In the end, the story is far from over. The main arc plays out over four novels. The novel takes some time setting up the back story and introducing the players, but when the action starts is as compelling as you would expect from cutting edge military SF.
Now: I didn’t want to make a comment about the cover design of this novel. Who wants to be a nasty bastard all the time? However, since I know that some people will be giving this a skip based on the cover (to say nothing about the sequel: Gust Front) I should probably just, at the very least, say the following: don’t judge a book by its cover. It’s not that the art is bad, or anything, it just doesn’t seem to suit the epic-ness of the novel at all. ...more
Ghosts of Onyx is a bit of a return to form for Nylund. I found the characterisation in Halo: First Strike a bit tepid, especially that of Spartan JohGhosts of Onyx is a bit of a return to form for Nylund. I found the characterisation in Halo: First Strike a bit tepid, especially that of Spartan John-117 (Master Chief). Ghosts is reminiscent of Halo: The Fall of Reach in some aspects, notably the training of a new generation of Spartans. The book also dispenses with featuring Master Chief as the protagonist. It’s a fairly solid novel, and a continuation of the Halo story-line, albeit parallel to the arc featuring Master Chief.
I suppose it has always been the intention that the novels serve as a supplement to the game, and that becomes apparent here. There are sequences where the Covenant are being fought on Earth, but I can’t seem to recall any real back story as to how they got there (I was under the impression that their efforts were thwarted in First Strike). Turns out it isn’t the same Prophet (or San ‘Shyuum) as the one responsible for the threat to Earth in First Strike, and that most of the events leading up to this scenario was dealt with in the second Halo game, in conjunction with the previous novels. The same applies to the events depicted here concerning the Great Schism and the subsequent fall-out between the Sangheili and the Jiralhanae. This is only a problem if, like me, you are reading the novels but not playing the game. And if, like me, you let too much time pass between reading them. The best way to read these books is probably in rapid succession, unless you have an eidetic memory.
I take note of the reviewers who dismiss this as derivative tie-in fiction. They’re not wrong, although I disagree with some of the negative feedback. A lot of thought has gone into fleshing out the Halo universe, and if you can suspend disbelief for a time there is no reason you shouldn’t be able to enjoy this. Bear in mind, though, it wouldn’t be completely inaccurate to label this as Young Adult Military Science Fiction. Also, I refuse to believe that an author like Greg Bear would associate himself with sub-standard derivative fiction (see Halo: Cryptum). I will agree that there isn’t a lot of tactical consideration given to military engagements and that most of the action consists of Spartans wading in with all guns blazing and slaughtering Covenant by the dozen (this, fortunately, has been toned down in this novel to make room for fleet engagements, which is a welcome reprieve).
The Forerunner technology on display showcases quite a few of the ol’ Sci-Fi conventions, such as artificial planets, Dyson Spheres and, most obviously, the Halo structures (on loan from Ringworld – although Larry Niven’s structure is much larger) so there are some sense-of-wonder moments as well.
In conclusion: despite its shortcomings, Ghosts of Onyx is one of the better Halo instalments and actually quite a bit of fun. Also: the novel introduces SPI (Semi-Powered Infiltration) armour in addition to the MJOLNIR armour. ...more
I could argue that the best thing about The Weapon is the technical aspect. There is an immense amount of detail regarding weaponry, training and tactI could argue that the best thing about The Weapon is the technical aspect. There is an immense amount of detail regarding weaponry, training and tactics for squad based infantry warfare, as well as infiltration and emergency extraction. However, the thing that stood out for me was how provocative this novel potentially is. Williamson dispenses with political correctness here and really gets into the mind of both protagonist and reader. Just when is murder on a planetary scale acceptable? Is it ever? How far would you go to protect something you love, be it an ideal or a person? And what then?
Something else that Williamson does really well is the extrapolation of consumerism and the current corporate culture. Is this what Earth will become in the future? It's pretty disconcerting, all the more so because it doesn't seem too far fetched at all.
An excellent military science fiction novel with more than a little food for thought....more
This is a good time to be reading Science Fiction. There is a century’s worth of literature just waiting to be explored and new and exciting stuff isThis is a good time to be reading Science Fiction. There is a century’s worth of literature just waiting to be explored and new and exciting stuff is coming out all the time. It’s never been more fashionable to be a geek. In fact, the negative connotation that used to be attached to that word as little as a decade ago is now reserved for the jocks. You know: those dumb brutes that don’t make time to read.
Enter Grimspace. Now, if there are any of you guys out there that are struggling to get the missus to read (and enjoy Science Fiction), may I suggest you start here. I got this for my wife on a whim (the cover looked cool) and she loved it. In fact, I eventually read it on her recommendation.
The story takes some cues from both Pitch Black and Firefly. It’s a gritty, grim future indeed. From decrepit space stations to swampy planets, the story hurtles along neatly. It doesn’t give you too much time to think, as it shouldn’t, because then you might start noticing the little inconsistencies or lack of scientific detail. I can’t help but go somewhat easy on a book like this, because it does exactly what it sets out to do. It’s not a contender for any throne, but it never pretends to be, either. It’s also quite funny, when it wants to be.
Now, let’s be honest, Grimspace has one foot in the Urban Fantasy or Paranormal Romance genre. No, there are no vampires or werewolves, but you’d be naïve not to realise where this whole “sex in space” phenomena came from. As for the sex scene itself: I’m a male and this book is written by a woman and narrated from a woman’s first person perspective. I am not interested in the curvature or tightness of the male buttock, or the hardness of the male… abdominals. So, that was a bit awkward. I can see, however, how women won’t have a problem with this.
It’s a fun, rocket-fuel paced, light sci-fi novel in a gritty setting. It’s also the first in a series. Go get it! (even if it’s for the lady in your life) ...more
Before I even launch into this review I have one word: Emissary.
Imagine an alien race that is half Cthulhu, half Mammoth and all bad attitude. If thatBefore I even launch into this review I have one word: Emissary.
Imagine an alien race that is half Cthulhu, half Mammoth and all bad attitude. If that doesn’t inspire you to read Nova War I’m afraid nothing will.
What a fun book! Filled with violence and sense-of-wonder, the second novel in the Shoal trilogy takes the story waaay beyond the events of Stealing Light. As far as hard Space Opera is concerned, this is turning into a biggie, even though it retains an intimate flavour (despite the vast scope of the novel, it centres on only a few main characters).
Again, I liked the review by Neal Asher. Who am I to question his authority on this kind of thing?
After the surprise reveals and upheavals of Nova War, the story is set to conclude in spectacular fashion in Empire of Light. Highly recommended. ...more
I really wanted to like this book more. I’ve been fascinated with the Xenomorphs for quite a while now, and I purchased this around the time PrometheuI really wanted to like this book more. I’ve been fascinated with the Xenomorphs for quite a while now, and I purchased this around the time Prometheus was released. Interestingly enough, the Engineers actually do feature here, although I am unable to discern as yet how everything fits together. That’s tie-in fiction for you. Earth Hive was released in the early 1990s and is book 1 in the Aliens series, but details about Xenomorph behaviour, biology and society is so sparse, and treated so peripherally, that it reads more like a footnote of something much larger. All this novel basically tells you about the Aliens, is that they have heads like bananas. Yes, bananas. Obviously, the assumption is that anybody who is reading this at least knows what the Xenomorphs look like, otherwise this is open to serious misinterpretation. Is the novel scary? No. Is the novel atmospheric? No. In short, it’s not really a novel about Aliens (they don’t feature “on page” nearly enough). It’s a novel about corporations who want to use the Aliens as biological weapons, and that idea is also pretty old by now (or at least, it was already old in the 1990s). At first I wasn’t sure whether the brusque writing style and dialogue should be described as “workmanlike” or “awkward”. In the end I decided on “awkward”. This is only recommended for die-hard Alien fans, although it just left me intrigued enough to consider reading the sequel (Aliens: Nightmare Asylum) at some point....more
Here's one for lovers of big dumb objects. Seriously, this novel is seeded with artifacts, and with designations like Cocoon, Sentinel, Paradox, ElephHere's one for lovers of big dumb objects. Seriously, this novel is seeded with artifacts, and with designations like Cocoon, Sentinel, Paradox, Elephant, Lens and Umbilical you know you just can't go wrong. Sheffield was both Mathematician and Physicist so the science is pretty hard. However, it is actually a remarkably accessible novel with some pretty endearing characters (especially some of the aliens).
The Builders, the mysterious alien civilization that vanished millions of years earlier and left behind their mysterious artifacts, also bear an uncanny resemblance to the Forerunners (Halo) and the Protheans (Mass Effect).
I enjoyed this quite a bit. As did my wife, and that says a lot....more
In the Ocean of Night was first published in episodic format, before the pieces were cobbled together toBenford works with a fascinating concept here.
In the Ocean of Night was first published in episodic format, before the pieces were cobbled together to form this first novel in the Galactic Centre series. It’s a good novel too. However, there is a problem with the pacing, undoubtedly because of its episodic origin. The novel consists of a number of separately defined timeline sequences, which makes sense given the plot progression. It is heavy stuff all round, but the problem lies with the second sequence, which might have been OK if it wasn’t for the fact that the preceding sequence was so exciting. Too much of a counter point here, I daresay. Things pick up after that, though, and Benford is a very good writer. He is also a scientist, so he knows how to sell a concept. In the end, all is forgiven as the novel gradually rebuilds momentum until culminating in some fine Science Fiction. The characterisation of Nigel Walmsley is also worth a mention.
It does set up the rest of the Galactic Centre series nicely. You just know things are bound to get hardcore from here.
So what’s it all about? Well – quite a bit, it turns out. The novel is deceptively dense, but deals with a theme that is not unfamiliar in Sci-Fi today, namely that of a universe filled with Machine Intelligence (as opposed, perhaps, to Organic Intelligence, and why this might be so), and, well, first contact, evolution and war (among other things). Or is it a novel about one man’s obsession? You decide. There is also the question of the Chicken and the Egg...
Heavy on philosophy and science, In the Ocean of Night also touches on some themes that are reminiscent of 2001: A Space Odyssey. I will admit that it affected me in a way that few books do, just by pressing on some of the right buttons. The whole fascinating truth of the story only resolves in the very final pages, even though, by this time, it is shrouded in gibberish (not quite sure why Benford decided on such a cryptic approach, although I have a suspicion or two). It’s a shame about the pacing issue, because that’s probably the only reason I’m not giving it five out of five stars. ...more
Mmm. Not quite sure what to make of this one. It surprised me halfway through, not because of any ingenious plot twist, but due to taking a momentousMmm. Not quite sure what to make of this one. It surprised me halfway through, not because of any ingenious plot twist, but due to taking a momentous turn for the absurd. The Alien Ones starts of as a "Bat Durston" space western, complete with pioneers, miners, evil landowners and a "westward ho" bent. However, things go weird when the main character turns into something not unlike The Incredible Hulk and goes on a "noble" rampage of sorts accompanied by a one-armed robot and his wife (who is also raped in the process). I know these are spoilers. In fact, not only are they spoilers, they're the whole book. Nothing else worth a mention happens. I'm giving it two stars because I liked the robot and any book with a protagonist named "Safron Wilde" should be worth at least that....more
I realise that this book is not recognised as one of Norton's better works, but I enjoyed it. In fact, I enjoyed it a lot. Perhaps I simply lack a fraI realise that this book is not recognised as one of Norton's better works, but I enjoyed it. In fact, I enjoyed it a lot. Perhaps I simply lack a frame of reference (this is my first Norton). I suspect I'm reading too much into it, but the ending was (to me) fairly ambiguous. That's the beauty of reading I suppose, and if I wanted to interpret Diskan's (or Xcothal's) metamorphosis as something metaphysical... well, I suppose that's my privilege, even if I'm dead wrong. I reckon I'll be checking out more of Norton's work....more
Part survival horror, part Science Fiction exploration novel, Hull Zero Three may have an old-fashioned streak but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Not sincePart survival horror, part Science Fiction exploration novel, Hull Zero Three may have an old-fashioned streak but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Not since Non-Stop has a generation ship story so gripped me. I’m saying ‘generation ship’ as opposed to ‘big-dumb-object’, because, frankly, we know what Ship is from the start.
The novel opens in relentless fashion and then hurtles along at breakneck pace. The first person narrative is jerky, disjointed. Confused. It is perfect. Consider: the protagonist opens his eyes from “dreamtime” into what is easily the most hellishly disturbing space-ship environment I have ever read; he is immediately in mortal danger, and has to react, fuelled by instinct and adrenaline; it never lets up; there are bodies everywhere; blood on the walls; it’s really grim; the protagonist has amnesia; he is scared witless and as confused as can possibly be. Like I said, perfect. Bear does a remarkable job of placing the reader in the protagonist’s shoes (so to speak – the protagonist is naked when the story opens).
Ship is large, very large, and a multitude of environments feature in the story. In all this space, there is ample opportunity for drama and mayhem, as the protagonist treks (or flees) through the ship, trying to piece together what the hell has happened (or is still happening) and who the hell he is. He meets up with others along the way. Things happen. Revelations follow. What’s not to like?
It’s sense of wonder overload when the revelations start. The author pulls out all the stops and things get progressively weirder and weirder, saturating the whole story with breathless anticipation. Surprises follow one another in rapid succession and nothing, nothing is what it seems.
One last, but very important, observation: despite the tension and the terror, this is first and foremost a science fiction novel. Forget that, and you’ll likely be disappointed. ...more
The Legacy of Heorot is one of a few novels I have read multiple times. It was also my introduction, not only to hard science fiction, but to horror.The Legacy of Heorot is one of a few novels I have read multiple times. It was also my introduction, not only to hard science fiction, but to horror. The Grendels were terrifying.
The Dragons of Heorot (also published as Beowulf's Children) is a very different kettle of fish. It gets off to a slow start. Then it hits a slow middle. Finally there is a bit of an upsurge, but then it dies a slow death. It’s not just that it’s a bad book, but it’s got too big boots to fill. The new generation of characters left me cold, and I found myself hoping they would be killed in agonising ways. Hopefully this doesn’t classify me as mentally unstable. The father vs daughter vs brother theme is positively Shakespearian, and I didn’t buy into it.
The novel shows clearly the consequences of ignoring an obvious problem for too long. What it doesn’t do, is give a satisfactory explanation for the lack of any action. Characters discuss the problem throughout the novel but they never act on it until it’s too late. Why? There was a character in this book that I disliked so much that I would have welcomed chapters and chapters of Grendels inflicting the most horrendous tortures on him. Alas. I will say this about the book: it did get me emotionally involved.
It’s not all bad news. There are some things to like about the novel. The scribes, for example, are fascinating creatures. The science, of course, is solid (this is Niven after all) and the ecological exploration is interesting. The book is really more akin to a stroll across the surface of the planet, discussing what is observed and squabbling about ownership.
It's hard to recommend reading this if you have read Legacy of Heorot. Dragons of Heorot may succeed as a novel about colonisation, or as a novel about ecological science. It fails as a sequel. Despite all the book’s posturing and build up, the Grendels are nothing more than a footnote, and a sad one at that. Those magnificently terrifying creatures of Legacy have become about as scary as the neighbour’s Labrador… and that’s what ticks me off the most! ...more
An exploration vessel with a crew complement of almost one thousand wandering between the stars... cue some music. No, wait a minute, it’s not the EntAn exploration vessel with a crew complement of almost one thousand wandering between the stars... cue some music. No, wait a minute, it’s not the Enterprise. It’s the Space Beagle. When was this written then? Well, the individual parts that make up this novel were published between 1939 and 1952. This is quite a famous little novel, even though current opinion about it is somewhat divided. Some of the assumptions in this book are rather naïve, such as allowing a foreign organism into an enclosed system (spaceship) without any concern over contamination or disease. Perhaps it’s merely anachronistic: this novel is, after all, from the golden age of Science Fiction. However, if you look at the story with eyes unbiased by 60 years of Science Fiction history and evolution, you should be suitably impressed.
The Discord in Scarlet storyline is especially memorable. A vicious and supernaturally powerful alien steals aboard the human ship; it lays eggs inside its hosts (the hapless humans); it hides in the “miles-long system of air conditioning”; it is bent on survival at all cost... Sound familiar? It should. 20th Century Fox eventually settled out of court, although in all fairness it may have been coincidence after all.
The novel also coined the phrase Nexialism, which is basically a consolidated approach to problem solving, by applying approaches from different sciences. Or, the holistic (“whole”-istic according to the novel) approach. The Anabis sequence contains some startling ideas, such as the teleportation of entire planets to create artificial systems. We are so used to high concept SF these days that it’s somewhat hard to imagine what folk would have experienced when reading this in the 1940s when the sequence was first published (as M33 in Andromeda, Astounding, 1943).
Needless to say, the Voyage of the Space Beagle has influenced the field of Science Fiction and pop culture to a momentous extent. Whether you like the novel or not, there is no denying its impact. Van Vogt’s alien creatures have even made it into Dungeons & Dragons and Final Fantasy, albeit in slightly altered forms. The novel carries its years pretty well, all things considered, and despite the fact that the Space Beagle still sports a mail chute. A true classic. ...more
This kind of thing reminds me somewhat of Ben Bova’s Grand Tour of the Solar System series. OK, it’s not quite the same, since The Quiet War leans a lThis kind of thing reminds me somewhat of Ben Bova’s Grand Tour of the Solar System series. OK, it’s not quite the same, since The Quiet War leans a lot more towards Space Opera. But still, there’s a vibe that corresponds, and it’s not just the hard science, either. The concept of war between Earth and the Outers received the treatment in other novels as well, such as Charles Sheffield’s Cold as Ice. Then there’s the blurb on the back cover that cites similarities with Peter F. Hamilton (is it me or is there a lot of that going around?) So… I’ve already name-dropped three different authors and my review isn’t in its second paragraph yet. Bad form. But here’s the thing: my initial impression on reading this was that it would be easy to disregard it as a mish-mash of Science Fiction’s greatest hits. That, however, would be an unfair assessment: The Quiet War does an admirable job of making these conventions its own.
This isn’t a light or easy read. Not only is it a bit of a slow burner, but there is a lot of Hard Science in here (Botanical, Ecological et al). Early on in the book there are a number of expositions on everything from the attributes of mud to Genome Sequencing. I’m no scientist, so it often happens that this kind of thing goes right over my head anyway. However, the story is fascinating, and there are lots of exotic locations and big ideas to sample. Once I was immersed, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. What I’m trying to say is, stick with it, even when it gets technical. It’s worth it.
There is a sequel, Gardens of the Sun. You will want to have it close once you’ve finished The Quiet War.
An unidentified object enters the solar system and an exploration team is sent to investigate. No this isn’t Rendezvous with Rama… In fact, All JudgemAn unidentified object enters the solar system and an exploration team is sent to investigate. No this isn’t Rendezvous with Rama… In fact, All Judgement Fled predates Rama with some three years or so. Where Arthur C. Clarke’s novel is pretty much the genre-defining big-dumb-object, or artifact, story, this is a novel about first contact. Or is it? All Judgement Fled raises a number of pretty interesting moral issues, even though it seems hesitant to deal with them directly, leaving some conclusion-drawing to the reader. It has a definite old school feel about it, which I liked, but the psychological portions were a bit heavy handed at times. Other than that, it’s actually a pretty short novel and time well spent if you like this kind of thing. Yes, the object is a space-ship. And no, that is not a spoiler, as this is made abundantly clear on the first page and the back cover. Once the actual exploration of the alien vessel gets underway, the plot hits some more familiar buttons (Alien, for one thing, comes to mind – although, again, this book predates Alien as well) and things get pretty tense. The tension generated by the story is ambiguous, and you’ll understand it if you read it - that is spoiler territory, so explanations are out. As for me, I quite enjoyed it....more
What’s a man supposed to do? Here is a novel that is greatly revered by critics and fans alike. It received both the Nebula and Hugo awards for best nWhat’s a man supposed to do? Here is a novel that is greatly revered by critics and fans alike. It received both the Nebula and Hugo awards for best novel (1972 and 1973 respectively). Asimov himself identified this as his favourite. And yet…
I normally really enjoy Asimov’s works. Foundation, especially, is one of my favourite SF novels. I am going to go against what appears to be the norm by not giving this novel four or five stars. It’s a novel I respected rather than enjoyed.
I can certainly recognise The Gods Themselves as a good Science Fiction novel. It’s no surprise it won awards. The science is hard enough to break rocks, even in one sixth of gravity. No doubt using this book to teach some of the fundamentals surrounding atoms and isotopes would be a good ploy for a science teacher. This is Asimov in full-lecture mode. There is also a lot of dialogue as characters use one another as sounding boards to drive the science home. To borrow from the comment below: it’s a bit wordy.
And perhaps most importantly. The novel opens with an apocalyptic notion of epic proportions. The universe is going to explode! Or, more specifically, our “arm of the galaxy is going to be turned into a quasar”. You’d think this garnered some sense of urgency. You’d be dead wrong. The story plods along at its own pace, focusing on relationships and theories to a mind-numbing extent. But what about the imminent end of all things? Oh, well, I suppose we’ll get to that later. In the end it would have been more satisfying if the universe did explode, just to shut up all these people.
Now before I get crucified. I liked the novel (hence the three stars), I just didn’t like it quite enough. In fact I feel that it is far inferior to Foundation. That is just my two cents’ worth, and looking at the current rate of exchange it probably isn’t much at all. ...more
A pretty sinister book, this, containing some really creepy moments. It also happens to be written quite well, so, it goes without saying that I enjoyA pretty sinister book, this, containing some really creepy moments. It also happens to be written quite well, so, it goes without saying that I enjoyed it. Another forerunner of modern horror, The Body Snatchers, along with I Am Legend, pretty much set the stage for modern paranormal horror a la King, Koontz and co. Both of these books happen to be in the Science Fiction Masterworks series, as well.
There is some oddball science in here, but come on! It was written in the fifties, and still carries a hefty punch. A commentary on 50s politics? Who cares - it entertained me and scared the pants off me, so I just have to recommend it.
Oh, and check out that scene with the skeletons......more
As I was reading this, I tried to determine just what it is that makes this series so enjoyable. It’s hard to put a finger on. OK, it’s based on a navAs I was reading this, I tried to determine just what it is that makes this series so enjoyable. It’s hard to put a finger on. OK, it’s based on a naval adventure series, this is old news by now. Drake, however, seems to be basing his scenarios, both political and military, on historic real world events, albeit very obscure ones. This means that the political and military dynamics of the series are at least grounded in some form of realism, even though it is a Science Fiction series. The books seem to follow a sort of formula as well. The first half of each novel is leisurely paced and this is where the pieces are moved around the board and the background is established. The second half is where the sparks fly, of course, and there is action and brilliant tactics aplenty, as Daniel Leary outwits the inevitably overwhelming odds in the, by now expected, epic space showdown (or two). There is ground combat as well, although in all fairness these novels aren't saturated with action like some other military themed Science Fiction. There is a lot of pomp and gung-ho attitude on display, but it all seems to add to the almost “festival” atmosphere of the novels. You have to have a sense of humour to get the most out of the experience. Despite this, things often get pretty violent and gruesome deaths are not uncommon. Even the Sissies are not exempt.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but if memory serves this is the first RCN / Leary novel that introduces non-human characters. Specifically, a snakelike humanoid alien, but there are some other references as well. Up to this point, this was an alien-free, or humans-only, series. I’m hoping to see this developed further as the series progresses.
The novel itself is, as always, a great read. The secondary characters like Hogg, Tovera & Fallert are entertaining to a form of art. As of my writing this, there are nine books in this series, of which this is book five. This means that you are nine books behind. So start reading! ...more
I’ll start off by saying that the author handles Lobo with admirable restraint. Let’s face it, there is a lot of potential for unprecedented mayhem heI’ll start off by saying that the author handles Lobo with admirable restraint. Let’s face it, there is a lot of potential for unprecedented mayhem here. Instead, there is a lot of tactical, and even strategic, plotting involved and the story focuses mainly on Jon Moore in this first novel. This is perhaps the best route to take, but I’m hoping the subsequent novels will see Lobo fully unleashed.
As far as Science Fiction adventures are concerned, One Jump Ahead has one or two tricks up its sleeve that differentiates it from the pack. The leading character, apart from being a nano-enhanced super soldier (nothing new there), can also talk to machines. Machines? Erm? It’s not as daft as it sounds; it’s actually handled quite expertly in a quaint bling-tech kind of way. Considering that the story takes place in the far future, the typical household appliance described here isn’t remotely identifiable with whatever is occupying your kitchen at the moment, and that obviously helps. It has to do with frequencies, artificial intelligence and other science-y stuff. Despite the fact that Jon Moore is different, he certainly isn’t invincible, and pains are taken to emphasise this. He sometimes needs help, and he is sometimes vulnerable. There are also many secrets in his past, some of which remain shrouded in mystery. Everything seems to indicate that this will be explored further in the sequels to One Jump Ahead so there is a lot to look forward to.
Our super-soldier also has a sidekick (Lobo), who just happens to be a Predator Class Assault Vehicle. Sounds cool, doesn’t it? And it is too. There isn’t much more to be said on this point, it’s the series’ signature. The book wasn’t as pulpy as I’d expected it to be, and it has a lot to do with the fact that the author doesn’t get too carried away with his creations. Like I’ve already mentioned: admirable.
So, buckets of attitude and old school fun still gets you places. The underwater sequence alone (with a racing Ray named Bob) is worth the price of admission. Fans of David Drake, David Weber and the like should check this out. ...more
A muffin between the shoulder blades? That certainly had me laughing out loud!
When I first read the synopsis for The Myriad I thought “Hive? InsectoidA muffin between the shoulder blades? That certainly had me laughing out loud!
When I first read the synopsis for The Myriad I thought “Hive? Insectoid alien menace? That sounds like it might have been done before? Once or twice or maybe a hundred times.” However, the novel comes highly recommended (read the reviews) and I do enjoy military Science Fiction, so I went ahead and bought it anyway. The fact that it has gladiators in space had absolutely nothing to do with it...
As it turns out I underestimated this book. The Hive is actually treated quite unlike the aliens in all those other Mil-SF novels. Quite. I will say this: some of the action seemed a bit absurd, but it suited the general feel of the book, which is fun, fun, fun. Not that The Myriad isn’t a serious book. It does, after all, have that Alien thing going (dark and brooding corridors and the like). The interplay between the captain of the Merrimack and his Roman intelligence officer is excellently portrayed.
I'm not sure why other reviewers are so intent in advertising their ignorance. This is not Meluch's first book, folks. Sorry to disappoint, but it is in fact her eighth novel! (or something like that)
Anyway, I digress, that's neither here nor there. Speaking of which: did anyone see that ending coming? No, look, read this. That’s all I have to say about it… …except that there are sequels, which I’ll certainly be reading! ...more
I am glad to see the likes of Neal Asher writing a review for this novel here on Goodreads. In fact, if you've enjoyed Asher's Space Opera novels, youI am glad to see the likes of Neal Asher writing a review for this novel here on Goodreads. In fact, if you've enjoyed Asher's Space Opera novels, you'll probably enjoy this too. I certainly did.
I am a sucker for stories that feature derelicts, alien or otherwise. I usually enjoy the exploration and sense of wonder that normally accompanies this theme. Add to that a dose of high octane action, interesting aliens, a millennia old secret that is very deadly, lots of cool tech (I especially liked the Planet Engines) and a grimy "used future" feel and you're already more than halfway there. The rest, of course, is plot and characterisation. Fortunately this novel didn't disappoint. The pacing is quite furious too, which really gets those pages turning.
In the end, I wasn't too surprised at the way the novel closed (it's not quite a cliffhanger, but it isn't too far removed). This story is much too big to tell in one novel, and is apparently the first in a trilogy. It is followed by Nova War, which I suspect I'll get to shortly, as I'm very curious how this is going to unfold.
If you like Space Opera where bigger is better and you enjoy the Culture novels (Iain M. Banks) or the Agent Cormac novels (Neal Asher) you should at least give Gibson a try. There's even a bit of a Deathstalker vibe. According to those in the know, the sequels to Stealing Light are even better. ...more
It's quite easy to like this book if you approach it with the correct attitude. Yes, it is based on a video game franchise, and the downside is that rIt's quite easy to like this book if you approach it with the correct attitude. Yes, it is based on a video game franchise, and the downside is that readers will not really know how the story unfolds from here unless they play the game. It's a pity that the story of the first Mass Effect game has not been novelized as a sequel to Revelation. There is a sequel (Mass Effect: Ascension), but it takes place after the events of the game. I would have loved to read a novel featuring Commander Shepard, and the story is so well done it wouldn't have hurt. On the other hand, it remains to be seen how this affects the overall story arc as I haven't yet read Ascension.
Anyway, as for Revelation itself. It is a prequel to the events that are set in motion in the first Mass Effect game, and it is quite an accessible Science Fiction novel. An amalgamation of light Space Opera and light Military Sci-Fi, this novel will likely appeal just as much to people who aren't normally readers of the genre. And that is perhaps the whole idea. The Mass Effect universe is extremely well realised and there is much to enjoy, to newcomers and regulars alike. Also, the writing is very competent.
It reads pretty fast, and doesn't get bogged down in too much detail. You could do worse than give this a try. Of course, if you have played the game and enjoyed it, this is mandatory reading....more
The science in this book is hard. Really hard. You’ll be spending at least a bit of time on-line, brushing up on astrophysics, in order to make headsThe science in this book is hard. Really hard. You’ll be spending at least a bit of time on-line, brushing up on astrophysics, in order to make heads or tails of the Eater of All Things. Speaking of which: is it just me or is there a lot of Lovecraftian imagery here? References to something called “the Old One”? A sentient, vastly ancient and all powerful entity arriving from the depths of space? Cryptic messages?
Eater is a pretty scary book. There is the obvious “sense of wonder” element, but it’s also very ominous. A black hole, hovering in the sky above the earth? How is that not disturbing? Apocalyptic metaphor aside, the characterisation was actually quite good as well. I understand why some people have criticised Benford for neglecting to dwell on the reaction of the world at large (the story, as big as it is, is actually told from the perspective of a very small and contained group of people) in a scenario such as this, but I think it works quite well. I already know the general public is soiling its collective underwear, no point in the author pointing that out…
If you like BIG mysteries and ever wonder what’s “out there”, this should scratch your itch to some extent. A spectacular wrap-up to the proceedings tidies the package up nicely. Recommended. ...more
McDevitt's decision to switch the first person point of view from Alex Benedict (A Talent for War) to Chase Kolpath makes more and more sense as the sMcDevitt's decision to switch the first person point of view from Alex Benedict (A Talent for War) to Chase Kolpath makes more and more sense as the series progresses. He is able to paint Benedict as an increasingly enigmatic character. I must say that the series is still going from strength to strength despite the rather formulaic approach. Fortunately, McDevitt's universe is vast, and his imagined future history so dense that he has a wealth of possibilities to work with.
He brings some of those possibilities to bear here. I must say he has an interesting approach to Space. Specifically the things that can go wrong on such a vast playing field, and how these events affect individual lives. The Devil’s Eye of the title is no exception. Like in the other Benedict titles, things build up slowly until the great reveal. Inevitably, it is pretty “gosh-wow”. But then, if you’ve been reading the series you wouldn’t expect anything less.
I liked reading more about the “Mutes”. My memory is a bit fuzzy but I don’t think they really featured in Polaris or Seeker.
I recommend this series. It has a lot going for it, and not just the cool John Harris covers. It's pretty old fashioned, but in the best kind of way. 'Sense of Wonder' Sci-Fi mysteries without the tech overkill. I would advise starting at book one (even though they’re all stand-alones, there are lots of references to previous events). ...more
This direct sequel to The Forge of God is as far removed from its predecessor in tone and content as could possibly be. The concept of the 'Law' is faThis direct sequel to The Forge of God is as far removed from its predecessor in tone and content as could possibly be. The concept of the 'Law' is fascinating, made more so by the enigmatic nature of the Benefactors. Many questions that are raised throughout the novel are left unanswered and the morality of decisions is open to interpretation. This plays an important part in what makes this novel work on an emotional level.
At first, I didn’t quite get Anvil of Stars. The sexual politics, called "slicking", aboard the Ship of the Law, for one thing, didn’t appeal to me. It doesn’t take long, however, to realise just how skewed the psychological profile of the Children of Earth inevitably is. These are kids that were taken away from parents at a very young age and forced to watch the destruction of Earth. Add to that the fact that they have grown up in a space ship, in zero gravity, with only each other for company, on a mission of vengeance. Are these androgynous, vengeful, alienated creatures even human any more?
It all comes together of course. Greg Bear has yet to disappoint me. The worlds he envisions here are spectacular, and events depicted mind-bending in scope and complexity. The prevailing issue, of course, is whether the Children will identify the correct Killer civilization, or whether they will destroy innocent worlds and so become Killers themselves, sentencing humanity to extinction. That is the Law.
There is enough sense of wonder here to satisfy the most jaded Science Fiction enthusiast. You should read this, but in order to appreciate it, read The Forge of God first. ...more
Wow. This is really something. Forget what you think you know if you’ve seen the film.
This is surely a landmark piece of Science Fiction. Although ClaWow. This is really something. Forget what you think you know if you’ve seen the film.
This is surely a landmark piece of Science Fiction. Although Clarke divulges a lot more detail here than Kubrick incorporated into his film, the mystic aspect of space is still present. I also enjoyed learning more about the monoliths and their true nature and/or purpose.
For some reason I thought the opening sequence (the Dawn of Man) would be boring. It wasn’t. In fact, despite being much more comprehensive than the bit showed in the film, I found it extremely lyrical and poignant. This, I suppose, is true of the whole novel. The grand finale was everything I’d hoped for and it does clear the water a bit, although there are some things that remain tantalizingly open for interpretation. There are a number of parallels here, but I don’t want to go into too much detail.
A fun activity is comparing Clarke’s predictions with the current state of technology. OK, so he had the date of space-worthiness wrong (we’re more than a decade overdue) but there are any number of things in here that are interesting (Tablet PCs with internet capability, for example). These tidbits are all the more impressive if you take into account the novel’s date of publication. Of course, this is one Sci-Fi story that is actually not about the tech, but the sense of wonder that accompanies exploration. Oh, and let's not forget the philosophical issue.
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