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The Pollutant Speaks
"Cochran deftly portrays the power of human minds to learn, teach, and stand up to the worst of our species." BookLife Editor's Pick
"A studied, intricate look at a futuristic age of alien contact." KIRKUS
Unveil the Cosmic Adventure of "The Pollutant Speaks"
Dive into a mind-bending world where science fiction meets literary prowess in "The Pollutant Speaks." This electrifying novel, set against the backdrop of humanity grappling with ecological and political turmoil, transports readers into a universe of untapped imagination and awakening.
A stagnating humanity is crushed onto seven small worlds, while the enigmatic union of alien life seems to set impossible goals to qualify for contact. When a discharged mental patient finds himself bankrupt, his only escape is to venture further into the cosmos than he ever dreamed. Do his inner demons hold the secret to peace with our stellar neighbours? Or will a fanatical leader and his cult return humanity to the dark ages?
"The Pollutant Speaks" delves deep into the consequences of human living conditions and the urgent need for change with questions of revolution and civil disorder. As AI and technology intertwine with our daily lives, the novel explores the ethics and implications of such integration. The book's "demons" embody centuries of literature and poetry, binding us into a slipstream of reading. A vivid narrative entwines science, philosophy, and emotion to create a mesmerizing tale of self-discovery.
Immerse yourself in "The Pollutant Speaks" and experience a vision of our future that's both haunting and hopeful. This stunning debut literary science fiction novel will leave you pondering the power of human choice and the transformative potential within us all.
"Telling this surprising story with brisk efficiency despite rich concepts, a sense of poetry, and welcome literary ambition, Cochran deftly portrays the power of human minds to learn, teach, and stand up to the worst of our species. Evans’s journey of self-realization and redemption, featuring fascinating and sometimes head-spinning development of Para language and future technology. This will delight lovers of thoughtful, ambitious science fiction."
BookLife
"Patient readers will be rewarded with an imaginative story that doesn’t fail to surprise."
"A studied, intricate look at a futuristic age of alien contact."
"[...]it seems as though Evans has been plucked from a work like William Gibson’s Neuromancer [...]"
Kirkus Reviews
"A studied, intricate look at a futuristic age of alien contact." KIRKUS
Unveil the Cosmic Adventure of "The Pollutant Speaks"
Dive into a mind-bending world where science fiction meets literary prowess in "The Pollutant Speaks." This electrifying novel, set against the backdrop of humanity grappling with ecological and political turmoil, transports readers into a universe of untapped imagination and awakening.
A stagnating humanity is crushed onto seven small worlds, while the enigmatic union of alien life seems to set impossible goals to qualify for contact. When a discharged mental patient finds himself bankrupt, his only escape is to venture further into the cosmos than he ever dreamed. Do his inner demons hold the secret to peace with our stellar neighbours? Or will a fanatical leader and his cult return humanity to the dark ages?
"The Pollutant Speaks" delves deep into the consequences of human living conditions and the urgent need for change with questions of revolution and civil disorder. As AI and technology intertwine with our daily lives, the novel explores the ethics and implications of such integration. The book's "demons" embody centuries of literature and poetry, binding us into a slipstream of reading. A vivid narrative entwines science, philosophy, and emotion to create a mesmerizing tale of self-discovery.
Immerse yourself in "The Pollutant Speaks" and experience a vision of our future that's both haunting and hopeful. This stunning debut literary science fiction novel will leave you pondering the power of human choice and the transformative potential within us all.
"Telling this surprising story with brisk efficiency despite rich concepts, a sense of poetry, and welcome literary ambition, Cochran deftly portrays the power of human minds to learn, teach, and stand up to the worst of our species. Evans’s journey of self-realization and redemption, featuring fascinating and sometimes head-spinning development of Para language and future technology. This will delight lovers of thoughtful, ambitious science fiction."
BookLife
"Patient readers will be rewarded with an imaginative story that doesn’t fail to surprise."
"A studied, intricate look at a futuristic age of alien contact."
"[...]it seems as though Evans has been plucked from a work like William Gibson’s Neuromancer [...]"
Kirkus Reviews
- GenresScience FictionDystopia
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 17, 2023
10 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 24, 2024
I thought this was a excellent read. It is clearly influenced by Iain M Banks's Culture series, but then so is a vast amount of modern SF. The Paraunion is, basically, the Culture. But I love the whole idea of Para speech - which I'll never be able to do justice to in this review.
The world - universe - building is fabulous and it feels like an old-school philosophical SF book. It also uses the future to take on the issues of the now: populism, environmental destruction, poverty, economic imbalances etc.
Plus there are shards of poetry scattered throughout, which I loved. Especially when my ego was rewarded by spotting where they came from.
I had this as a Kindle Unlimited book, but I'm going to buy a copy and re-read it. I think it might creep into my favourite books of all time list. But we shall see.
The world - universe - building is fabulous and it feels like an old-school philosophical SF book. It also uses the future to take on the issues of the now: populism, environmental destruction, poverty, economic imbalances etc.
Plus there are shards of poetry scattered throughout, which I loved. Especially when my ego was rewarded by spotting where they came from.
I had this as a Kindle Unlimited book, but I'm going to buy a copy and re-read it. I think it might creep into my favourite books of all time list. But we shall see.
December 9, 2023
The author offered me a copy to review, and I liked it! A lot is thrown at you about this world in the beginning, but it’s information you need as the story progresses. Humanity is in bad shape. Some people think that befriending and becoming a member of an alien civilization called the Paraunion is the way forward, while a militant extremist group is opposed and organizing a dangerous opposition.
Our main character shows the ability to learn the Paraunion language, so he sets off to a faraway planet to learn it and potentially become an ambassador. The language is complex- not just vocalization, but gestures and body language- and it can relay subtext and emotion, too. As the main character gets more proficient with it, it comes across more like regular dialogue.
Like the language, the more I read of this book, the more I appreciated its complexities. The language can be philosophical. When the story settled into its groove, it really grabbed me. The other worlds and members of the Paraunion are truly alien- completely different from humans and far more advanced. Good stuff!
Our main character shows the ability to learn the Paraunion language, so he sets off to a faraway planet to learn it and potentially become an ambassador. The language is complex- not just vocalization, but gestures and body language- and it can relay subtext and emotion, too. As the main character gets more proficient with it, it comes across more like regular dialogue.
Like the language, the more I read of this book, the more I appreciated its complexities. The language can be philosophical. When the story settled into its groove, it really grabbed me. The other worlds and members of the Paraunion are truly alien- completely different from humans and far more advanced. Good stuff!
December 10, 2023
An amazing book!
The pollutant speaks is a gripping tale of humanity on the verge of letting go of the hatred and fear that weighs it down and holds it back from making the next evolutionary step that will save it. The protagonist, Evans finds himself embroiled in the center of it all, as he searches for a way forward- for himself and for the society that made him.
Alex Cochran does a great job building the worlds he takes you through. A very good read, I highly recommend!
The pollutant speaks is a gripping tale of humanity on the verge of letting go of the hatred and fear that weighs it down and holds it back from making the next evolutionary step that will save it. The protagonist, Evans finds himself embroiled in the center of it all, as he searches for a way forward- for himself and for the society that made him.
Alex Cochran does a great job building the worlds he takes you through. A very good read, I highly recommend!
January 2, 2024
The best thing I've read this year. It takes a while for you to get the feel for how this novel works but once I relaxed into the ride, it gave me THAT feeling when you've discovered something new that no one else knows about.
In summary this book isn't appropriate for YA but I don't think there's anything to stop a mature reading teen from enjoying it. The style is like Vonnegut and Whitman took a bath in cyberpunk. So you have to expect something challenging that isn't going to spoon feed you all the answers.
I do get the feeling that this is going to be a cult book, not for everyone, a bit like Clockwork Orange was. There's some experimental writing in here that I let, not unpleasantly, wash over me on the first read. I did cheat and google some of it to find out what a thunderword was etc. Now I like those kind of easter eggs. Not everyone does.
In summary this book isn't appropriate for YA but I don't think there's anything to stop a mature reading teen from enjoying it. The style is like Vonnegut and Whitman took a bath in cyberpunk. So you have to expect something challenging that isn't going to spoon feed you all the answers.
I do get the feeling that this is going to be a cult book, not for everyone, a bit like Clockwork Orange was. There's some experimental writing in here that I let, not unpleasantly, wash over me on the first read. I did cheat and google some of it to find out what a thunderword was etc. Now I like those kind of easter eggs. Not everyone does.
November 19, 2023
A fantastic read, a proper page turner. The concept truly original. The human race will only survive if we can rise to the challenge of learning to communicate with beings from other worlds, but are we mere mortal humans up to the challenge? It turns out a handful of us might be! Will we have the confidence to believe it? Can we stop the other feckwits getting the human race blacklisted? Only one way to find out: read this book.
Science fiction at it’s best. Original and exciting.
Science fiction at it’s best. Original and exciting.
April 21, 2024
--ARC provided by Bee Orchid Press and LibraryThing.--
3.5 Stars but rounding down here out of frustration.
While this is a densely-told and immersive SF novel, what it isn't is highly original. This is a rich quilt of SF influences (from A Clockwork Orange to most of PKD's oeuvre) without a great deal of fresh voice other than the neologisms and world-creation trappings. I know I sound like the wettest blanket, but I've read a great deal of SF over the last half-century and it's all in here. The overpopulated dystopia of social-media crowd control seems to be a cyberpunk standard, but the characters, politics, and the mechanism by which the antagonist 'does his thing' are straight out of Samuel Delany's Babel-17 from 1966. Worst of all is that the main character proceeds mostly through mention of his past: his agency was essentially silenced before the story begins and he sleepwalks through most of this novel, as frustrated as I at his inability to do anything significant.
I really wanted to like this, and Cochran's use of verse as political subversion and unrest if great, but the constant clamor of the Cannots was like listening to banging radiator pipes. This is a journeyman piece but hopefully not Cochran's last word.
Also, a note to Bee Orchid Press: the proofreading really broke down about halfway through and the last third of this ARC is rife with errors.
3.5 Stars but rounding down here out of frustration.
While this is a densely-told and immersive SF novel, what it isn't is highly original. This is a rich quilt of SF influences (from A Clockwork Orange to most of PKD's oeuvre) without a great deal of fresh voice other than the neologisms and world-creation trappings. I know I sound like the wettest blanket, but I've read a great deal of SF over the last half-century and it's all in here. The overpopulated dystopia of social-media crowd control seems to be a cyberpunk standard, but the characters, politics, and the mechanism by which the antagonist 'does his thing' are straight out of Samuel Delany's Babel-17 from 1966. Worst of all is that the main character proceeds mostly through mention of his past: his agency was essentially silenced before the story begins and he sleepwalks through most of this novel, as frustrated as I at his inability to do anything significant.
I really wanted to like this, and Cochran's use of verse as political subversion and unrest if great, but the constant clamor of the Cannots was like listening to banging radiator pipes. This is a journeyman piece but hopefully not Cochran's last word.
Also, a note to Bee Orchid Press: the proofreading really broke down about halfway through and the last third of this ARC is rife with errors.
November 22, 2023
Despite feeling a bit overwhelmed in the early pages by other-worldly jargon and unknown stories, as the chapters unfolded, ‘The Pollutant Speaks’ quickly became one of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time!
The story is an imaginative and exciting gem of science fiction which effortlessly critiques the complexities of the human condition with just the right sprinkle of provocation, despair and heroism! The characters are finely drawn and relatable, and probably the main reason I read this tale almost cover to cover.
Would definitely recommend to a friend!
The story is an imaginative and exciting gem of science fiction which effortlessly critiques the complexities of the human condition with just the right sprinkle of provocation, despair and heroism! The characters are finely drawn and relatable, and probably the main reason I read this tale almost cover to cover.
Would definitely recommend to a friend!
December 19, 2023
I've read the odd short story by Mr Cochran and have always been impressed with his style and humanity. It is always interesting to note that some of the most empathetic writers employ their talents in science fiction when it might be supposed that their genre bent might point them in a different direction. Still, Mr Cochran shows us a possible future where humanity is on the cusp of transition from dystopia to taking our place within a larger galactic family - yet with hints of further challenges - where our petty parochialism will be forever quashed.
I guess it's not a surprise, though; the article "Sci-Fi and Fantasy Build Mental Resiliency in Young Readers" suggests that understanding human differences and emotional intelligence can result from reading science fiction, which Mr Cochran demonstrates in spades.
His protagonist is unfailingly human, seemingly an observer in his life rather than an active participant, pushed from pillar to post throughout the novel and seemingly only redeemed by his friends and companions - one can't help but empathise.
A jolly good read, and that hint of a challenge I noted - come on, Mr Cochran, get your skates on!
I guess it's not a surprise, though; the article "Sci-Fi and Fantasy Build Mental Resiliency in Young Readers" suggests that understanding human differences and emotional intelligence can result from reading science fiction, which Mr Cochran demonstrates in spades.
His protagonist is unfailingly human, seemingly an observer in his life rather than an active participant, pushed from pillar to post throughout the novel and seemingly only redeemed by his friends and companions - one can't help but empathise.
A jolly good read, and that hint of a challenge I noted - come on, Mr Cochran, get your skates on!
January 3, 2024
Alex Cochran's 'The Pollutant Speaks' is an extraordinary foray into science fiction, combining a deep exploration of human nature with a captivating cosmic adventure. This book, my first 5-star read of the year, stands out as a remarkable achievement in the genre.
From the outset, 'The Pollutant Speaks' presents a complex and unfamiliar universe, challenging readers to immerse themselves without much initial context. This approach, while initially confusing, mirrors the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and adaptation, ultimately enhancing the reader's connection to the narrative. The first third of the book demands patience, but for those who persevere, the reward is a richly woven tapestry of ideas and themes.
Cochran excels in creating a cast of well-rounded and fully realized characters, each contributing to the novel's intricate plot. The protagonist's journey is particularly compelling, depicted as a genuine path of self-realization and healing. The novel's integration of political, scientific, philosophical, and humanistic elements is masterfully executed, with beautiful prose that elevates the story beyond mere entertainment.
At 262 pages, the depth and breadth of content packed into 'The Pollutant Speaks' are impressive. The novel's exploration of alien beings, communication systems, and the intertwining of various disciplines creates a mesmerizing world that resonates long after the last page is turned. It's a book that not only entertains but also challenges and provokes deep contemplation.
Despite the initial challenge of navigating an unknown world, the confusion experienced by the reader aligns with the protagonist's experience. As the story unfolds and context is provided, the reader grows alongside the main character, making the journey feel all the more rewarding.
I highly recommend 'The Pollutant Speaks' to fans of science fiction who are open to a novel that requires a bit of patience at the beginning. Its depth, complexity, and thought-provoking narrative make it an unforgettable read. This book is not just an entertaining story with twists and turns; it's a profound contemplation on the human condition, making it a standout in its genre.
From the outset, 'The Pollutant Speaks' presents a complex and unfamiliar universe, challenging readers to immerse themselves without much initial context. This approach, while initially confusing, mirrors the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and adaptation, ultimately enhancing the reader's connection to the narrative. The first third of the book demands patience, but for those who persevere, the reward is a richly woven tapestry of ideas and themes.
Cochran excels in creating a cast of well-rounded and fully realized characters, each contributing to the novel's intricate plot. The protagonist's journey is particularly compelling, depicted as a genuine path of self-realization and healing. The novel's integration of political, scientific, philosophical, and humanistic elements is masterfully executed, with beautiful prose that elevates the story beyond mere entertainment.
At 262 pages, the depth and breadth of content packed into 'The Pollutant Speaks' are impressive. The novel's exploration of alien beings, communication systems, and the intertwining of various disciplines creates a mesmerizing world that resonates long after the last page is turned. It's a book that not only entertains but also challenges and provokes deep contemplation.
Despite the initial challenge of navigating an unknown world, the confusion experienced by the reader aligns with the protagonist's experience. As the story unfolds and context is provided, the reader grows alongside the main character, making the journey feel all the more rewarding.
I highly recommend 'The Pollutant Speaks' to fans of science fiction who are open to a novel that requires a bit of patience at the beginning. Its depth, complexity, and thought-provoking narrative make it an unforgettable read. This book is not just an entertaining story with twists and turns; it's a profound contemplation on the human condition, making it a standout in its genre.
April 3, 2024
The frustrating thing about Warren Ellis et al's excellent sci-fi political satire comic Transmetropolitan is the hint of an even more interesting world beyond the pages. The very first storyline involves trade with an alien species that is almost immediately left behind to more terrestrial matters. Alex Cochran's The Pollutant Speaks swings the other way, beginning in a cyberpunk capitalist hellscape and quickly flying out into grand space opera reminiscent of Iain M. Bank's Culture novels.
Evans Ezra Evans was a poet. His epic poem 'The Pollutant Speaks' raged against the injustice subjected on the impoverished masses across the seven worlds settled by humanity, and raised him out of that poverty himself. Now, due to a traumatic accident, he is literally incapable of writing, and is about to fall back into the miserable universal basic subsistence he tried to end. What's worse, his magnum opus has been corrupted and turned manifesto by some who would rather burn the world down than try to alleviate suffering. And they want Evans dead. Without the protection of money, he is doomed to be killed by his own words. His only hope is the possibility that he may be one of a handful of humans capable of learning a new language. One spoken by the Paraunion, a galaxy-wide collective of alien species who are considering allowing humans entry into a larger world. Evans has the chance to see the stars, but no guarantee that his problems won't follow him.
The Pollutant Speaks took me by surprise. It's rare that a story gives a solution to a grim cyberpunk future, and "aliens" is a great option! Cochran's writing is sharp and engaging, with humans who feel realistic to their world and aliens who are truly alien, but also honestly benevolent. Evans' narration is shot through with poetry, both the real-life poets who must be his influences, and fragments of his The Waste Land - like masterpiece. The Pollutant Speaks deals with ethics, art, language, and what it means to live in a society. I hope Cochran gives us more like this.
Evans Ezra Evans was a poet. His epic poem 'The Pollutant Speaks' raged against the injustice subjected on the impoverished masses across the seven worlds settled by humanity, and raised him out of that poverty himself. Now, due to a traumatic accident, he is literally incapable of writing, and is about to fall back into the miserable universal basic subsistence he tried to end. What's worse, his magnum opus has been corrupted and turned manifesto by some who would rather burn the world down than try to alleviate suffering. And they want Evans dead. Without the protection of money, he is doomed to be killed by his own words. His only hope is the possibility that he may be one of a handful of humans capable of learning a new language. One spoken by the Paraunion, a galaxy-wide collective of alien species who are considering allowing humans entry into a larger world. Evans has the chance to see the stars, but no guarantee that his problems won't follow him.
The Pollutant Speaks took me by surprise. It's rare that a story gives a solution to a grim cyberpunk future, and "aliens" is a great option! Cochran's writing is sharp and engaging, with humans who feel realistic to their world and aliens who are truly alien, but also honestly benevolent. Evans' narration is shot through with poetry, both the real-life poets who must be his influences, and fragments of his The Waste Land - like masterpiece. The Pollutant Speaks deals with ethics, art, language, and what it means to live in a society. I hope Cochran gives us more like this.
March 3, 2024
"The Pollutant Speaks" by Alex Cochran is a sci-fi novel that takes readers on a thrilling ride through a dystopian future riddled with political turmoil, environmental devastation, and alien contact. The story centers around Evans, a fallen punk rocker whose past work now fuels a dangerous movement and leaves him ostracized. His desperate search for redemption leads him down a path filled with danger, self-discovery, and interstellar travel.
Evans' journey is captivating. Readers get a glimpse into his troubled past, his present struggles, and his yearning for a better future. His internal conflict and evolving perspective add depth to the narrative.
The author paints a vivid picture of a society grappling with resource scarcity, societal unrest, and the impending threat of alien evaluation. The unique blend of cyberpunk and science fiction elements creates a fascinating backdrop.
The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. Evans' precarious situation and the looming threat of the underground movement create a constant sense of danger and urgency.
The novel explores relevant themes like environmentalism, societal collapse, the influence of media, and the struggle for human connection. These themes resonate with current concerns and add depth to the story.
Overall:
"The Pollutant Speaks" is an insightful and action-packed read. It offers a captivating blend of dystopian themes, complex characters, and a suspenseful plot. Fans of sci-fi with a touch of social commentary will find this novel a rewarding journey.
If you enjoy stories about flawed protagonists, thought-provoking sci-fi settings, and gripping plots with high stakes, then "The Pollutant Speaks" is definitely worth checking out.
Evans' journey is captivating. Readers get a glimpse into his troubled past, his present struggles, and his yearning for a better future. His internal conflict and evolving perspective add depth to the narrative.
The author paints a vivid picture of a society grappling with resource scarcity, societal unrest, and the impending threat of alien evaluation. The unique blend of cyberpunk and science fiction elements creates a fascinating backdrop.
The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. Evans' precarious situation and the looming threat of the underground movement create a constant sense of danger and urgency.
The novel explores relevant themes like environmentalism, societal collapse, the influence of media, and the struggle for human connection. These themes resonate with current concerns and add depth to the story.
Overall:
"The Pollutant Speaks" is an insightful and action-packed read. It offers a captivating blend of dystopian themes, complex characters, and a suspenseful plot. Fans of sci-fi with a touch of social commentary will find this novel a rewarding journey.
If you enjoy stories about flawed protagonists, thought-provoking sci-fi settings, and gripping plots with high stakes, then "The Pollutant Speaks" is definitely worth checking out.
August 16, 2024
The start was a little rough as I waded through the frenetic and dense worldbuilding vernacular, but once the journey was underway, things settled, the writing had room to breathe, and the characters were able to emerge. What initially presented as a hackneyed cyberpunk epigone instead became a well-realised journey through an ambitiously scoped alien civilisation, reminiscent of Banks's The Player of Games. Cochran conjures a convincingly rounded culture, politics, and cornucopia of aliens without missing a step, setting a solid stage for the drama to unfold. A very enjoyable read - I look forward to his next book!
March 4, 2024
Fascinating debut novel by Alex Cochran. It describes a distant future society where freedom is more a commodity than a right. The book "Pollutant Speaks", written by the main character takes on a whole new meaning and is used in a way he never thought possible. The book does an amazing job of taking you to this future universe where humanity is on the brink of a new chapter. All the weight of humanity is on the shoulders of the main character, will he succeed or fail? Great book to get you thinking about the possibilities of not only how humans rally around a cause they believe in, but how we may not be as advanced as we think we are. This was a book from the Early Reviewers on LibraryThing
December 4, 2023
I received a free copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me. I found it too filled with space jargon and unnecessarily wordy, which put me off.
The concept of the book is brilliant; a guy with mental health issues goes off planet to save himself as much as everyone else. My issue is that every sentence feels like it has been attacked with a thesaurus. Sometimes less is more.
Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me. I found it too filled with space jargon and unnecessarily wordy, which put me off.
The concept of the book is brilliant; a guy with mental health issues goes off planet to save himself as much as everyone else. My issue is that every sentence feels like it has been attacked with a thesaurus. Sometimes less is more.
May 15, 2024
Well, got through this one. A bit of an odd story for me. The writing style is very good and kept me reading even though it seemed at times not very much was happening with the character. I think it would have benefitted from more detail about the troubles back on Earth. Still, a good read and I look forward to more from this author.
I would have given it 3 & 1/2 stars if that was an option.
I would have given it 3 & 1/2 stars if that was an option.
February 27, 2024
An interesting SF with a thought-out and strange enough alien civilization and a good storyline. Unfortunately the whole book feels not fleshed out and explained enough which doesn`t help.
November 28, 2024
need to read this again!
Delightful science fiction always requires a second read. I will allow this boo in k to marinate for a month or so and come back to it.
Delightful science fiction always requires a second read. I will allow this boo in k to marinate for a month or so and come back to it.
September 16, 2024
An interestingly thought-out semi-cyberpunkish future with a rapidly degenerating socio-politcal climate, a recovering post-mental-breakdown poet finding his writings twisted and amplified by a sometimes-violent social movement with which he deeply disagrees, and an unexpected rare opportunity to learn and work with a very large and complex interstellar Union of a wide variety of alien races, all weave together into an interesting and fun read in The Pollutant Speaks.
I appreciated that the story integrated both awareness of the increasingly unrestful and violent socio-political climate and the vast alienness of the interstellar Union as the main character encountered elements of each . This kind of world-building can be difficult to do without a lot of info-dumping, and it was done decently well here.
I don't know if the author intends to continue the story with future volumes, but if he does, I might have to pick them up to see what follows.
I appreciated that the story integrated both awareness of the increasingly unrestful and violent socio-political climate and the vast alienness of the interstellar Union as the main character encountered elements of each . This kind of world-building can be difficult to do without a lot of info-dumping, and it was done decently well here.
I don't know if the author intends to continue the story with future volumes, but if he does, I might have to pick them up to see what follows.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews