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Archipelago
For half a century, the Archipelago has been silent. Alone, out on the galaxy's rim, an eccentric cluster of planets set out to forge a new society, far from the meddling interference of the great interplanetary leagues. Over decades of isolation, the Archipelago became a mostly forgotten legend.
Then, out of the blue, they send a message. The leagues are invited to visit. But why? Why now?
Ren Markov is a veteran diplomat for the idealistic Core Planets, where he acts as an agent of subversion, toppling governments and spoiling revolutions. Dispatched on a mission into the Arc, Ren discovers stunning worlds and a radical, ecologically obsessed society that is both compelling and disturbing. But he faces a terrible decision. Should he protect this strange new society, or should he fear it and allow it to be crushed?
Machiavellian plots swirl as the leagues struggle for influence and control. 'Archipelago' takes readers on a journey through interstellar politics, revolution, and the diverging ethics of a vast diaspora. Ren is in search of his very identity as he chooses between salvation and annihilation.
Then, out of the blue, they send a message. The leagues are invited to visit. But why? Why now?
Ren Markov is a veteran diplomat for the idealistic Core Planets, where he acts as an agent of subversion, toppling governments and spoiling revolutions. Dispatched on a mission into the Arc, Ren discovers stunning worlds and a radical, ecologically obsessed society that is both compelling and disturbing. But he faces a terrible decision. Should he protect this strange new society, or should he fear it and allow it to be crushed?
Machiavellian plots swirl as the leagues struggle for influence and control. 'Archipelago' takes readers on a journey through interstellar politics, revolution, and the diverging ethics of a vast diaspora. Ren is in search of his very identity as he chooses between salvation and annihilation.
- GenresScience Fiction
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2024
78 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 29, 2024
I'm going to try not to damn with faint praise here, but I really liked Archipelago. Its problem, in a world of novels of universe-destroying threats in big galactic sci-fi is that its story of intergalactic intrigue between future colonies is - for something involving intergalactic colonies and fifty light years of travel - rather small scale. It is the future of humanity which have developed gateways: intergalactic portals with which instantaneous transport can be made across interstellar distances. All you need is to get the other end of the portal to where you want to go. couple that outlay with the huge expense of terraforming planets at the other end, and humanity is playing a long game, with the big pockets in two or three capitalist players: here the Core Planets, the Old Worlds, and the Hanseatic League. The Archipelago is a bunch of planets out on the galactic rim, fifty light-years from their nearest neighbour, which fifty years ago withdrew contact with the rest of humanity, closing their end of the gate and leaving some of those corporations with unpaid off investments. As ever in books like this, capitalism doesn't forget.
The fifty (light) years is important of course, because the Archipelago have remade contact, and have asked for a delegation from the major powers to come and see what they have done. Our protagonist, Ren, is a troubleshooter for the Core Planets, who goes along to discover a political system in harmony with all creatures, but potentially small t totalitarianism. What follows is a mixture of 18th-century philosophy about governance, and political intrigue as the other powers try to influence, and potentially get a return back on their investment. On top of this, the Archipelago has a secret,,,
The secret was eminently guessable and wasn't quite as epoch-changing as I expected it might be. And the political and military shenanigans happen largely off-screen. What we get most of is a run-through of these philosophies implemented - from Rousseau to Spinoza, perhaps scratching a modern itch that sees the inherent flaws in current forms of democracy. Hawkins is open about the flaws in the society he has invented and offers some interesting counters which didn't quite convince me, but then the alternative in the book is also hyper-capitalism which is also not ideal. Of course, Hawkins is in control of all of that, it is fiction, though there is something in a more broadly custodian of nature ecological viewpoint that seems more appropriate for the here and now rather than a terraforming galactic colonisation which is by design smashing up planets. All of which is to say that Archipelago isn't flashy, but it does end up being quite compelling and well-paced for a done-in-one.
The fifty (light) years is important of course, because the Archipelago have remade contact, and have asked for a delegation from the major powers to come and see what they have done. Our protagonist, Ren, is a troubleshooter for the Core Planets, who goes along to discover a political system in harmony with all creatures, but potentially small t totalitarianism. What follows is a mixture of 18th-century philosophy about governance, and political intrigue as the other powers try to influence, and potentially get a return back on their investment. On top of this, the Archipelago has a secret,,,
The secret was eminently guessable and wasn't quite as epoch-changing as I expected it might be. And the political and military shenanigans happen largely off-screen. What we get most of is a run-through of these philosophies implemented - from Rousseau to Spinoza, perhaps scratching a modern itch that sees the inherent flaws in current forms of democracy. Hawkins is open about the flaws in the society he has invented and offers some interesting counters which didn't quite convince me, but then the alternative in the book is also hyper-capitalism which is also not ideal. Of course, Hawkins is in control of all of that, it is fiction, though there is something in a more broadly custodian of nature ecological viewpoint that seems more appropriate for the here and now rather than a terraforming galactic colonisation which is by design smashing up planets. All of which is to say that Archipelago isn't flashy, but it does end up being quite compelling and well-paced for a done-in-one.
May 17, 2024
Archipelago tells of the struggles of a set of worlds with a different mindset from your average commercial, economics-driven society. After decades of isolation, they think it may be time to ‘come out’, The politics of this are not easy, especially with the political shenanigans the other major players insist on.
The author has a wonderful way with words. The details of their inventive technologies, of the terraformed worlds, the feeling of stepping through a portal into …nothingness. All beautifully presented, inviting the reader to relax and enjoy the journey. Join Ren in conversations and discussions with his hosts about their different ethical backgrounds and their resulting priorities. Watch them bristle at every criticism, and flare up at every historical slight, real or imagined. And all the time the reader is already aware of double dealing, plans already afoot by the other comities to take back Archipelago by force.
I got bored by the interminable discussion. The plot was becoming pretty obvious, and I had not found any of the protagonists worth caring about to see who won out. It took so long to make its point, and it got somewhat repetitive. Yes, there may be twists, it may be a parable relevant to Earth societies, but I’m reading for enjoyment, and this one just got me irritated.
The author has a wonderful way with words. The details of their inventive technologies, of the terraformed worlds, the feeling of stepping through a portal into …nothingness. All beautifully presented, inviting the reader to relax and enjoy the journey. Join Ren in conversations and discussions with his hosts about their different ethical backgrounds and their resulting priorities. Watch them bristle at every criticism, and flare up at every historical slight, real or imagined. And all the time the reader is already aware of double dealing, plans already afoot by the other comities to take back Archipelago by force.
I got bored by the interminable discussion. The plot was becoming pretty obvious, and I had not found any of the protagonists worth caring about to see who won out. It took so long to make its point, and it got somewhat repetitive. Yes, there may be twists, it may be a parable relevant to Earth societies, but I’m reading for enjoyment, and this one just got me irritated.
August 12, 2025
A group of planets, the Archipelago, suddenly ceases contact with the rest of the universe. The act ruffles a few feathers. Fifty years later, they open a channel and invite intergalactic representatives in again. A hand-picked envoy representing the powers that be uses a special portal to make the trip. And so begins a story of mystery, intrigue, ideology, identity, and conflict.
Gripping, thought-provoking, and fabulous. I'd strongly recommend this one to anyone looking for a grand and wonderfully written sci-fi fix.
Gripping, thought-provoking, and fabulous. I'd strongly recommend this one to anyone looking for a grand and wonderfully written sci-fi fix.
February 16, 2024
This is an exquisitely crafted universe, but almost at the detriment of the story. In each location that this book takes place, the description is highly detailed, and helps to create a fully realised world. When contrasted with that, the plot feels too simple - there are easy solutions, and no real sense of jeopardy in the book.
The concept of the Arc, and the world they have created there is great, and I love the gateways. This book has provided a foundational universe that could and should be explored in future books.
The writing is good-quality, but very descriptive, and at times the description is too long, and starts to make the reader lose interest.
That said, if you are looking for a low-stakes sci-fi that takes place in a truly well thought-out world, Archipelgao may be exactly what you are looking for.
The concept of the Arc, and the world they have created there is great, and I love the gateways. This book has provided a foundational universe that could and should be explored in future books.
The writing is good-quality, but very descriptive, and at times the description is too long, and starts to make the reader lose interest.
That said, if you are looking for a low-stakes sci-fi that takes place in a truly well thought-out world, Archipelgao may be exactly what you are looking for.
February 19, 2024
Ultimately, Archipelago plays with some interesting ideas, but is let down by its relentlessly slow pacing. The worldbuilding was extensive in one particular area, dedicating almost 2/3rds of the book to it, without offering any real payoff. We don't use this knowledge to understand the society's decisions in the climax, and negative aspects hinted at but never fully addressed or explored. At least 1/3rd of the book could have been cut out by a strong editor, possibly more.
That said, it's competently written. Characters' motivations felt believable and there are no mustache-twirling villains in sight. The world feels lived-in, despite the heavy exposition required, and our PoV character is sympathetic and understandable. That said, I was glad when it was finally over.
That said, it's competently written. Characters' motivations felt believable and there are no mustache-twirling villains in sight. The world feels lived-in, despite the heavy exposition required, and our PoV character is sympathetic and understandable. That said, I was glad when it was finally over.
August 30, 2024
An excellent sf book of ideas and world-building; if one expects action or nuanced characters this is not for them as the book reads like an old-fashioned contest of ideas within a fairly inventive ecological world-building. Not the fastest or energetic read to start with, it took me a while to get into it but then it became fascinating and I started turning the pages to see where it goes and what else comes up.
The setup is fairly simple - in a future universe of human expansion to the stars, a few polities dominate - the Core from which our main character POV, Ren Markov is a diplomat and special operative, is a sort of more evolved version of our (western) civilization of today, the Hanseatic League is a corporate polity of worlds (could be seen as another trajectory of our civilization today where the corporations took completely over) and the Old Worlds seems to be a more ideological future version dominated by religion and a strict moral code - it is the least presented of the three main player civilizations so really hard to compare but the names there seem to be Russian based...
Travel (both planetary and interstellar) is done by (manufactured) gateways which allow for instantaneous travel and there are fairly powerful ai's that seem not to be sentient though. Some decades before the start of the action, the Archipelago (Arc), a smallish colony-polity of a few worlds, in an out-of-the-way place with few gateways started developing a distinct socio-economic structure that was anti-corporate (earning the ire of the Hanseatic league which was one of the main investors there) and anti-"democratic" for the value of democratic that means politics and elections, so as usual the Core and Hanseatic agents helped along a "regime change" to a more congenial government - but the ideologues of the Arc expected that and prepared well, embedding their people in the new structure, so one day they mounted a surprise coup and destroyed all the gateways to the rest of human space except one that they closed. Lots of people, including Ren's parents who were from the Arc, got stranded wherever they were in the rest of the human space, though Ren, born on an insignificant Core agricultural planet where his (now deceased) parents settled, met and married, a planet which Ren left for the center of core space at the first opportunity, has very little knowledge of as his parents rarely talked about the Arc.
Now, 50 years later (and probably not coincidentally the time needed for sublight military expeditions from the powerful polities to arrive secretly in the Arc and prepare to "take it back"), the Arc wants to talk and reestablish relations, so they invite a delegation from the powers above. Ren is selected by his powerful boss Astrid the long-serving leader of foreign relations of the Core to go as the leader of the delegation and see what's up; Astrid knows that the Core hasn't prepared for a secret attack on the Arc, but suspects that the Hanseatic League and/or the old Worlds did so, hence Ren has a dual mandate - the official one to see what the Arc is about, if it's really a perverted totalitarian state oppressing their citizens or if it can mesh with the Core at least on some points etc and a secret one to look out for signs of an invasion, monitor his colleagues from the other polities for signs of preparing and abetting such and warning the Arc leaders if Ren feels the Arc is a reasonable polity and of course has a chance of resisting the invasion.
And so it goes and we slowly go through the Arc's reality and secrets with Ren whose main contact, Oso-Rae an Arc mid-level Central Control operative with her own doubts about the Arc's ideology of "ecological humanism", turns out to be a distant cousin...
With a very good and appropriate ending that leaves room for more in the fascinating universe of this novel, I highly recommend it and I would definitely be interested in more in this universe.
The setup is fairly simple - in a future universe of human expansion to the stars, a few polities dominate - the Core from which our main character POV, Ren Markov is a diplomat and special operative, is a sort of more evolved version of our (western) civilization of today, the Hanseatic League is a corporate polity of worlds (could be seen as another trajectory of our civilization today where the corporations took completely over) and the Old Worlds seems to be a more ideological future version dominated by religion and a strict moral code - it is the least presented of the three main player civilizations so really hard to compare but the names there seem to be Russian based...
Travel (both planetary and interstellar) is done by (manufactured) gateways which allow for instantaneous travel and there are fairly powerful ai's that seem not to be sentient though. Some decades before the start of the action, the Archipelago (Arc), a smallish colony-polity of a few worlds, in an out-of-the-way place with few gateways started developing a distinct socio-economic structure that was anti-corporate (earning the ire of the Hanseatic league which was one of the main investors there) and anti-"democratic" for the value of democratic that means politics and elections, so as usual the Core and Hanseatic agents helped along a "regime change" to a more congenial government - but the ideologues of the Arc expected that and prepared well, embedding their people in the new structure, so one day they mounted a surprise coup and destroyed all the gateways to the rest of human space except one that they closed. Lots of people, including Ren's parents who were from the Arc, got stranded wherever they were in the rest of the human space, though Ren, born on an insignificant Core agricultural planet where his (now deceased) parents settled, met and married, a planet which Ren left for the center of core space at the first opportunity, has very little knowledge of as his parents rarely talked about the Arc.
Now, 50 years later (and probably not coincidentally the time needed for sublight military expeditions from the powerful polities to arrive secretly in the Arc and prepare to "take it back"), the Arc wants to talk and reestablish relations, so they invite a delegation from the powers above. Ren is selected by his powerful boss Astrid the long-serving leader of foreign relations of the Core to go as the leader of the delegation and see what's up; Astrid knows that the Core hasn't prepared for a secret attack on the Arc, but suspects that the Hanseatic League and/or the old Worlds did so, hence Ren has a dual mandate - the official one to see what the Arc is about, if it's really a perverted totalitarian state oppressing their citizens or if it can mesh with the Core at least on some points etc and a secret one to look out for signs of an invasion, monitor his colleagues from the other polities for signs of preparing and abetting such and warning the Arc leaders if Ren feels the Arc is a reasonable polity and of course has a chance of resisting the invasion.
And so it goes and we slowly go through the Arc's reality and secrets with Ren whose main contact, Oso-Rae an Arc mid-level Central Control operative with her own doubts about the Arc's ideology of "ecological humanism", turns out to be a distant cousin...
With a very good and appropriate ending that leaves room for more in the fascinating universe of this novel, I highly recommend it and I would definitely be interested in more in this universe.
January 10, 2024
Archipelago is simply put a story about a conflict between several planetary clusters that regain contact after fifty years of silence from one of them.
It takes a long while before the story goes anywhere. Although the society is not that complicated, it is described with an overload of details. The book kicks off at Ren Markov’s home, a cluster of planets called Core. And it’s described extensively. Now that another of those clusters, called the Archipelago or the Arc, seeks contact again after fifty years of silence, a first diplomatic mission is set-up, with seasoned diplomat Ren as mission lead. When arriving at the Arc, the diplomats get an elaborate tour through several of the cluster’s planets, guided by Oso-Rae. Each planet is different and ‑‑again‑‑ described extensively. Next to that, Ren and Oso-Rae engage in many debates about cultural and social differences between the Arc and the other clusters, and the goods and bads of each. Two thirds along the way, not much else has happened.
There is an intrigue, because members of the two other clusters participating to the diplomatic mission have less peaceful plans. They plan a so-called insertion, a military mission to take over the Arc. Ren finds out about it and is determined to undermine that plan. Fun, interesting too, but that part doesn’t get the attention the world building gets. The conflicts related to that are remarkably easily dealt with. Although nothing about this book is bad or badly written (the contrary is definitely true), I would have liked a more balanced equilibrium between the world building (lowered down to what the reader really needs to know) and the actual core story (more of it, less easy solutions).
So much world building has been done here, and it would be a shame if that was done for this one book alone. Hawkins has actually prepared an entire universe, in which many more things can happen. I’d like that, because the background of it all is solid and interesting to read about. But next time, I’d prefer events to occur sooner. I'd like there to be some world building left for my own imagination.
It takes a long while before the story goes anywhere. Although the society is not that complicated, it is described with an overload of details. The book kicks off at Ren Markov’s home, a cluster of planets called Core. And it’s described extensively. Now that another of those clusters, called the Archipelago or the Arc, seeks contact again after fifty years of silence, a first diplomatic mission is set-up, with seasoned diplomat Ren as mission lead. When arriving at the Arc, the diplomats get an elaborate tour through several of the cluster’s planets, guided by Oso-Rae. Each planet is different and ‑‑again‑‑ described extensively. Next to that, Ren and Oso-Rae engage in many debates about cultural and social differences between the Arc and the other clusters, and the goods and bads of each. Two thirds along the way, not much else has happened.
There is an intrigue, because members of the two other clusters participating to the diplomatic mission have less peaceful plans. They plan a so-called insertion, a military mission to take over the Arc. Ren finds out about it and is determined to undermine that plan. Fun, interesting too, but that part doesn’t get the attention the world building gets. The conflicts related to that are remarkably easily dealt with. Although nothing about this book is bad or badly written (the contrary is definitely true), I would have liked a more balanced equilibrium between the world building (lowered down to what the reader really needs to know) and the actual core story (more of it, less easy solutions).
So much world building has been done here, and it would be a shame if that was done for this one book alone. Hawkins has actually prepared an entire universe, in which many more things can happen. I’d like that, because the background of it all is solid and interesting to read about. But next time, I’d prefer events to occur sooner. I'd like there to be some world building left for my own imagination.
November 21, 2024
This was a good book. Anthropology + ecology with some sci-fi sprinkled in. I really wanted to give it 5 stars but I’ll get to why i just couldn’t in a bit.
This was familiar but fresh Sci fi take! Intergalactic politics, crazy futuristic tech, interpersonal relationships, and culture studies across planets. Lots to like! It honestly felt like something Asimov could have written.
What I loved:
The main character, Ren, was very likable and relatable. An intergalactic diplomat, responsible for deciding if whole worlds are on the right track or not. Yet outside of work he blends in, fights inner battles, and wants to genuinely do good. The whole story concept is great. A league of planets with a novel ideology cuts themselves off from everyone else for 50 years. Ren, along with 3 other diplomats from other leagues, is tasked with being the first to step foot back in the Archipelago of planets and figure out if old alliances should be re forged or forever broken. This archipelago of planets they take a grand tour of is amazing! So much rich beauty and creatively thought of planets.
What I didn’t like:
While it was amazing having these worlds described in intricate detail, I feel like it stunted and slowed the story. Sometimes I just wanted to know what was going to happen next but had to wait a few pages while the world was described in detail down to the moss sometimes. Being a shorter book already, it made for a fairly predictable storyline without a lot of depth. Also, making Oso-Rae Ren’s distant cousin was a huge mistake. That could have very easily been a vibrant and deep romance but it wasn’t to be from the moment they met.
All in all it was a good book! I hope to see more from this author in the future and I frankly love the universe he has created. I recommend it for any fans of Asimov’s Foundation or any intergalactic politic series. It wasn’t too nerdy and had a lot of big questions to propose.
I hope this turns into a series. I would read a sequel!
This was familiar but fresh Sci fi take! Intergalactic politics, crazy futuristic tech, interpersonal relationships, and culture studies across planets. Lots to like! It honestly felt like something Asimov could have written.
What I loved:
The main character, Ren, was very likable and relatable. An intergalactic diplomat, responsible for deciding if whole worlds are on the right track or not. Yet outside of work he blends in, fights inner battles, and wants to genuinely do good. The whole story concept is great. A league of planets with a novel ideology cuts themselves off from everyone else for 50 years. Ren, along with 3 other diplomats from other leagues, is tasked with being the first to step foot back in the Archipelago of planets and figure out if old alliances should be re forged or forever broken. This archipelago of planets they take a grand tour of is amazing! So much rich beauty and creatively thought of planets.
What I didn’t like:
While it was amazing having these worlds described in intricate detail, I feel like it stunted and slowed the story. Sometimes I just wanted to know what was going to happen next but had to wait a few pages while the world was described in detail down to the moss sometimes. Being a shorter book already, it made for a fairly predictable storyline without a lot of depth. Also, making Oso-Rae Ren’s distant cousin was a huge mistake. That could have very easily been a vibrant and deep romance but it wasn’t to be from the moment they met.
All in all it was a good book! I hope to see more from this author in the future and I frankly love the universe he has created. I recommend it for any fans of Asimov’s Foundation or any intergalactic politic series. It wasn’t too nerdy and had a lot of big questions to propose.
I hope this turns into a series. I would read a sequel!
February 6, 2024
Archipelago by HR Hawkins is perfect if you are looking for a philosophical read in a sci-fi setting. The story is full of rich descriptions and in depth world building with a verbose intellectual writing style.
The story starts with a message from The Archipelago, a group of planets that has been cut off for the past 50 years, inviting a small contingent of people to visit and open discussions.
The goals of the Arc are unclear, and it’s Ren’s job to figure out who they really are and their true motivations. He travels with a team whose members he doesn’t trust while evaluating if the Arc, or his comrades, pose any threat to the Core.
The bulk of the book is a tour of the Archipelago where Ren has many dialogs with his guides. Ren typically represents a capitalistic view point, his guides an environmentalist view point, they discuss technology, free will, communities, education and other topics. There are also internal dialogs within Ren as he questions what he knows and where he draws the line. As we travel with him he seems to shift from a capitalist perspective to a humanitarian one.
There are, of course, some secret plots and intrigue along the way.
Someone who enjoys a slow read, armchair philosophy, and deep rich descriptions may enjoy this book, however it wasn’t for me. I found myself more frustrated than drawn in most of the time.
The author Henry Hawking built a beautiful intriguing world. I wish he had danced in his own playground a bit instead of just following the plot. Overall I felt stuck on the sidelines like I was looking at photos of someone’s vacation. Never truly able to connect. I longed for the characters to interact with the world, culture and technology more instead of just viewing it.
The story starts with a message from The Archipelago, a group of planets that has been cut off for the past 50 years, inviting a small contingent of people to visit and open discussions.
The goals of the Arc are unclear, and it’s Ren’s job to figure out who they really are and their true motivations. He travels with a team whose members he doesn’t trust while evaluating if the Arc, or his comrades, pose any threat to the Core.
The bulk of the book is a tour of the Archipelago where Ren has many dialogs with his guides. Ren typically represents a capitalistic view point, his guides an environmentalist view point, they discuss technology, free will, communities, education and other topics. There are also internal dialogs within Ren as he questions what he knows and where he draws the line. As we travel with him he seems to shift from a capitalist perspective to a humanitarian one.
There are, of course, some secret plots and intrigue along the way.
Someone who enjoys a slow read, armchair philosophy, and deep rich descriptions may enjoy this book, however it wasn’t for me. I found myself more frustrated than drawn in most of the time.
The author Henry Hawking built a beautiful intriguing world. I wish he had danced in his own playground a bit instead of just following the plot. Overall I felt stuck on the sidelines like I was looking at photos of someone’s vacation. Never truly able to connect. I longed for the characters to interact with the world, culture and technology more instead of just viewing it.
January 21, 2024
A well-crafted thought-provoking sci-fi...
"Archipelago" by H.R. Hawkins offers a thrilling odyssey into a galaxy's forgotten frontier. For decades, the eccentric planets of the Archipelago have maintained a mysterious silence, away from the influence of the interplanetary leagues. Suddenly, a message emerges, extending an invitation that prompts the leagues to embark on a visit. The question echoes: Why now?
Ren Markov, a seasoned diplomat from the Core Planets, known for orchestrating political upheavals, is tasked with a mission to the Archipelago. What unfolds is a mesmerizing exploration of breathtaking worlds and an ecologically fixated society, both captivating and unsettling. As Ren grapples with his encounter, he faces an agonizing choice — to protect this enigmatic society or to stand by as it's crushed.
In the backdrop of treacherous intrigues, "Archipelago" immerses readers in a tapestry of interstellar politics, revolutions, and the evolving ethics of a sprawling diaspora. Ren, caught in the crosscurrents, searches for his identity amid the complex decisions that pit salvation against annihilation. Hawkins weaves a tale that challenges not just Ren's choices but also prompts readers to question the very nature of societies and their diverging destinies. A well-crafted thought-provoking sci-fi. Highly recommended.
"Archipelago" by H.R. Hawkins offers a thrilling odyssey into a galaxy's forgotten frontier. For decades, the eccentric planets of the Archipelago have maintained a mysterious silence, away from the influence of the interplanetary leagues. Suddenly, a message emerges, extending an invitation that prompts the leagues to embark on a visit. The question echoes: Why now?
Ren Markov, a seasoned diplomat from the Core Planets, known for orchestrating political upheavals, is tasked with a mission to the Archipelago. What unfolds is a mesmerizing exploration of breathtaking worlds and an ecologically fixated society, both captivating and unsettling. As Ren grapples with his encounter, he faces an agonizing choice — to protect this enigmatic society or to stand by as it's crushed.
In the backdrop of treacherous intrigues, "Archipelago" immerses readers in a tapestry of interstellar politics, revolutions, and the evolving ethics of a sprawling diaspora. Ren, caught in the crosscurrents, searches for his identity amid the complex decisions that pit salvation against annihilation. Hawkins weaves a tale that challenges not just Ren's choices but also prompts readers to question the very nature of societies and their diverging destinies. A well-crafted thought-provoking sci-fi. Highly recommended.
July 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this unusual scifi novel. It's setting is an unspecified number of millennia in the future, and the trope of a human diaspora expanding out into a limitless galaxy is always uplifting and full of potential. However, I would like to have heard more about what happened to Earth, which only gets a couple of oblique mentions as a "dead planet", and about the space-time gateways, without which the whole thing wouldn't have been possible - how were they invented/discovered and how did humans manage to use them to get away from Earth as it died?
As other reviewers have said, sometimes it seems the author is using his story as a background to a prolonged meditation on ecology and how societies should be structured. I don't think he fully takes into account how different things might be in a situation where humans are not confined to a single planet. One wonders, for example, why the Core Planets have a planet with a horrible climate as their HQ when presumably they have a huge number to choose from.
That said, there are hints towards the end that there may be more to this story - I certainly hope so.
As other reviewers have said, sometimes it seems the author is using his story as a background to a prolonged meditation on ecology and how societies should be structured. I don't think he fully takes into account how different things might be in a situation where humans are not confined to a single planet. One wonders, for example, why the Core Planets have a planet with a horrible climate as their HQ when presumably they have a huge number to choose from.
That said, there are hints towards the end that there may be more to this story - I certainly hope so.
January 25, 2024
Archipelago by H R Hawkins is a fascinating science fiction read for anyone who enjoys a story that takes the reader to a higher level than typical sci fi. In this book, people who were tired of living in the inner worlds left to start a new society on a cluster of planets known as the Archipelago. They left and no communication came for a long time. Then, they reach out and ask people to come and visit. The visitors find a collection of worlds that are very different than anything they ever expected. But are these new ways of life something to respect and learn from or should they be feared and stopped? This story will have you asking questions about the way we live our lives, the way we treat our planet, and what we want for the future. I found it to be interesting but slow since it had me thinking about these topics throughout. The characters are interesting and do a good job of giving the reader more to consider as you learn about the different points of view.
January 25, 2024
The writer H R Hawkins' versatile sci-fi "Archipelago" invites readers into a mesmerizing journey through interstellar realms, navigating the intricate web of politics, revolution, and ethical divergence within a forgotten cluster of planets on the galaxy's rim. The Archipelago, long isolated from the great interplanetary leagues, emerges as a unique setting for exploring profound ethical dilemmas and the quest for identity.
The author skillfully crafts a compelling narrative, immersing the reader in the complexities of a new society, with the vivid use of galaxy-specific jargon enhancing the authenticity of the space science fiction experience. The well-written prose, coupled with an engaging writing style, ensures that it" stands out as a captivating exploration of the interplay between isolation, ethics, and societal evolution in the vast expanse of the cosmos.
The author skillfully crafts a compelling narrative, immersing the reader in the complexities of a new society, with the vivid use of galaxy-specific jargon enhancing the authenticity of the space science fiction experience. The well-written prose, coupled with an engaging writing style, ensures that it" stands out as a captivating exploration of the interplay between isolation, ethics, and societal evolution in the vast expanse of the cosmos.
March 14, 2024
First thing I have to say is this novel is gratuitously detailed. I in no way mean that scornfully. The level of immersive language, and minutely refined details brought me into the world. I can taste and smell the planets. I could feel the weather. I loved every second of it. The author kept a true passion for details and embellishment throughout the story to the very end. It was mesmerizing, a beautifully crafted piece that kept me intrigued until the very end. I could identify with the main character on such a personal level. I felt like he was my best friend and I was along for the ride. I’m adding this author to my following list, I can’t wait to read the upcoming works. It was kept modern, and yet still harkened to classical literature. I don’t think I can praise this story enough.
January 23, 2024
"Archipelago" by H R Hawkins seamlessly blends sci-fi with intricate plots, exploring interstellar politics and ethical choices within a secluded galactic cluster. The writing style is engaging, creating an immersive experience as diverse worlds and societies unfold.
Hawkins skillfully navigates themes of diplomacy, revolution, and identity, making it a thought-provoking read. Ideal for sci-fi enthusiasts who appreciate a balance between political intrigue and character-driven narratives, the novel offers fresh perspectives on ethical consequences in the vastness of space.
Overall, "Archipelago" is a well-crafted, compact journey through complex worlds and moral dilemmas.
Hawkins skillfully navigates themes of diplomacy, revolution, and identity, making it a thought-provoking read. Ideal for sci-fi enthusiasts who appreciate a balance between political intrigue and character-driven narratives, the novel offers fresh perspectives on ethical consequences in the vastness of space.
Overall, "Archipelago" is a well-crafted, compact journey through complex worlds and moral dilemmas.
January 27, 2024
H.R. Hawkins' "Archipelago" unveils a mesmerizing tale within a forsaken cosmic cluster. Nestled amidst interstellar galaxies, Archipelago emerges from isolation, becoming a crucible for profound ethical quandaries. The narrative delves into the intricate quest for identity, intertwining with a revolutionary political landscape. With meticulous detail, the writer navigates the struggle for power and the fervent endeavors to safeguard the distinct societal fabric. This space-centric science-fiction novel captivates readers with its immersive exploration of existential dilemmas, making this book an enthralling odyssey through uncharted cosmic territories.
October 4, 2024
The premise for Archipelago is quite fresh and interesting. I loved the idea of a section of the galaxy cut off for 50 years; it reminded me a little of Foundation. Overall I liked the book but did feel the author could have done more with the idea, and if he had put as much effort into the character development as he obviously did in the very long sections of world building and political philosophy discussions it might have been better balanced. Shades of Philip Jose Farmer too. But a good read nevertheless especially if you like that SF sense of wonder and discovery.
June 28, 2025
It started off OK, building the premise of the places and the actual plot. But the characters were not believable from the start with wooden dialogue and in an overdescribed way. Readers can recognise what dialogue means without being informed how they were saying it.
Combined with way too much introspection of the characters and a lot of poorly argued philosophy about cultures it made it a much poorer read than it could have been.
Combined with way too much introspection of the characters and a lot of poorly argued philosophy about cultures it made it a much poorer read than it could have been.
January 27, 2024
"Archipelago" is a sci-fi tale about a silent cluster of planets inviting others after 50 years. Diplomat Ren explores the weird society, facing a tough choice: protect it or let it be crushed. H. R. Hawkins spins a gripping story of space politics, revolution, and tough decisions. It's a fun ride through a galaxy full of surprises and dilemmas.
January 31, 2024
Humanity versus absolutism.
I recommend this book to you. It offers a glimpse of controlling humanity with endless laws or government monitoring of your neural link. Either way trouble makers disappear.
I recommend this book to you. It offers a glimpse of controlling humanity with endless laws or government monitoring of your neural link. Either way trouble makers disappear.
February 6, 2024
Faulty political screeds lead to a boring book written by a college level thinker. There’s a little action but nothing new or novel. The author does note the evils of collectivism but positions the authoritarian regime as the ultimate winner in the end.
February 21, 2024
Pretty interesting story with solid writing. This author has a good imagination and puts it to good use here. I enjoyed the characters and the plot. Recommended.
I really appreciate the free copy for review!!
I really appreciate the free copy for review!!
June 19, 2024
enjoyable and not too heavy
Loved this book, with a really nice balance of high technology, eco-awareness, dialogue and relationships. Not too heavy to pick up and put down with a gentle conclusion leaving the door open for more to come.
Loved this book, with a really nice balance of high technology, eco-awareness, dialogue and relationships. Not too heavy to pick up and put down with a gentle conclusion leaving the door open for more to come.
November 18, 2024
I enjoyed this book, the setting felt lived in and unique, and the discussions between characters on their society’s ideologies and economics was interesting. Hope the author publishes more books in the future, within or without this setting.
January 31, 2025
Unassuming but great
This is a slow and steady story. There is little action, but it's none the worse for it.
It's a story of two opposing (or are they?) cultures. I'd love there to be a sequel.
This is a slow and steady story. There is little action, but it's none the worse for it.
It's a story of two opposing (or are they?) cultures. I'd love there to be a sequel.
August 10, 2024
Mesmerising and thoughtful sci-fi.
Really very good, with a strong and compelling storyline, and without the daft space battles of many sci-fi novels.
Writing was a tad unnecessarily verbose initially, but settled into a natural rhythm.
Really very good, with a strong and compelling storyline, and without the daft space battles of many sci-fi novels.
Writing was a tad unnecessarily verbose initially, but settled into a natural rhythm.
November 13, 2025
REALLY COOL SCI-FI Concept
The book itself was a great stand alone if you’re looking for a unique take on space sci-fi. A very cool interpretation of the future of humanity
The book itself was a great stand alone if you’re looking for a unique take on space sci-fi. A very cool interpretation of the future of humanity
August 9, 2024
REALLY COOL SCI-FI Concept
The book itself was a great stand alone if you’re looking for a unique take on space sci-fi. A very cool interpretation of the future of humanity
The book itself was a great stand alone if you’re looking for a unique take on space sci-fi. A very cool interpretation of the future of humanity
September 3, 2024
Enjoyable but a slow read. The new worlds are built on the philosophy of living in harmony with nature.
October 22, 2024
This is a sci-fi book, but its focus is far more on philosophy and politics, which is fine, but not what I was expecting based on the book’s blurb and summary. Ren is sent as part of a diplomatic survey to a group of planets called the Archipelago (Arc), who have been cut off from the rest of humanity for fifty years until they recently opened their gateways and began communication again. Ren must visit the Arc and decide if it a threat.
The world building was stellar. The descriptions of the different planets and habitats were all stunning and detailed; I felt like I was really there. There were a lot of good philosophical ideas that were brought up by the characters regarding governance, individuality, and how they relate to one another. I appreciated that the Arc wasn’t described as a pure utopia and the planetary leagues aren’t described as dystopian nightmares, or vice versa. Each had their flaws and could learn things from the other.
However, this book was incredibly slow. It sometimes felt as though too much time was spent on describing the planets and not enough time on the conflicts or the characters. A third of the book seemed to be just detailing the planet’s flora, agriculture and water systems. There was very little actual conflict or plot until the last quarter of the book.
The characters all felt exactly the same to me; absolutely none of them stood out at all, For example, one of the characters sent to the Arc, Imiko, was described as friendly and always speaking her mind, while another, Kani, was described as stoic and rigid, always keeping control of what came out of his mouth. However… their dialogue was exactly the same. Everyone in this book is snarky and sarcastic, constantly challenging everyone else’s viewpoints and making quippy comments usually disguised in a friendly tone. Also, nobody actually talks like these people in real-life interactions; the dialogue wasn’t believable to me at all.
Overall, while aspects of this book could be improved, it was still an enjoyable and thought provoking story, and I would probably read more stories taking place in this universe if they contained more plot and conflict. 3/5 stars.
The world building was stellar. The descriptions of the different planets and habitats were all stunning and detailed; I felt like I was really there. There were a lot of good philosophical ideas that were brought up by the characters regarding governance, individuality, and how they relate to one another. I appreciated that the Arc wasn’t described as a pure utopia and the planetary leagues aren’t described as dystopian nightmares, or vice versa. Each had their flaws and could learn things from the other.
However, this book was incredibly slow. It sometimes felt as though too much time was spent on describing the planets and not enough time on the conflicts or the characters. A third of the book seemed to be just detailing the planet’s flora, agriculture and water systems. There was very little actual conflict or plot until the last quarter of the book.
The characters all felt exactly the same to me; absolutely none of them stood out at all, For example, one of the characters sent to the Arc, Imiko, was described as friendly and always speaking her mind, while another, Kani, was described as stoic and rigid, always keeping control of what came out of his mouth. However… their dialogue was exactly the same. Everyone in this book is snarky and sarcastic, constantly challenging everyone else’s viewpoints and making quippy comments usually disguised in a friendly tone. Also, nobody actually talks like these people in real-life interactions; the dialogue wasn’t believable to me at all.
Overall, while aspects of this book could be improved, it was still an enjoyable and thought provoking story, and I would probably read more stories taking place in this universe if they contained more plot and conflict. 3/5 stars.
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