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Icarus Down
Earth’s survivors cling to life on an unforgiving, distant planet!
Three generations after the crash of the colony ship Icarus, Iapyx is barely hanging on: one of thirteen cities suspended halfway down deep chasms. The sun on the diamond lands above will kill a man in less than five minutes. The ticktock monsters in the fog forest below are a little slower — but quite a bit smarter. An electromagnetic wash has disabled the computers, the radios, even the lightbulbs. It’s the steam and clockwork age reborn: a careful society, rationed and stratified.
Which suits Simon Daud just fine.
Simon likes the rules, and knows his place — in the shadow of his older brother, Isaac. All he wants is to earn his wings as an ornithopter pilot and get to work in the flight bays. But on his final test flight, something goes wrong. Isaac is killed. Simon is burned; his body will never be the same.
Neither will his world. Not everything in Iapyx is quite as it seems, and through his rehabilitation Simon falls into the middle of a conspiracy that will bring everything he’s ever known to the ground. Down in the fog forest, monsters await — but so does the truth . . . if Simon can survive long enough to find it.
Three generations after the crash of the colony ship Icarus, Iapyx is barely hanging on: one of thirteen cities suspended halfway down deep chasms. The sun on the diamond lands above will kill a man in less than five minutes. The ticktock monsters in the fog forest below are a little slower — but quite a bit smarter. An electromagnetic wash has disabled the computers, the radios, even the lightbulbs. It’s the steam and clockwork age reborn: a careful society, rationed and stratified.
Which suits Simon Daud just fine.
Simon likes the rules, and knows his place — in the shadow of his older brother, Isaac. All he wants is to earn his wings as an ornithopter pilot and get to work in the flight bays. But on his final test flight, something goes wrong. Isaac is killed. Simon is burned; his body will never be the same.
Neither will his world. Not everything in Iapyx is quite as it seems, and through his rehabilitation Simon falls into the middle of a conspiracy that will bring everything he’s ever known to the ground. Down in the fog forest, monsters await — but so does the truth . . . if Simon can survive long enough to find it.
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2016
5 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
James Bow
93 books53 followersI was born in downtown Toronto on April 19, 1972 and lived there until my folks moved up to Kitchener in 1991 so I could attend the University of Waterloo. I’ve lived in Kitchener ever since. I’ve been trained as an urban planner, and I’ve worked as a database manager, web designer, circulation manager, administrative assistant, layout designer and office manager. The one consistent thing about my varied academic and professional career has been a love of writing.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 22, 2016
I have read two other books by James Bow and greatly enjoyed them, but this book takes my appreciation of his writing to a whole new level. It was interesting I was reading both this book, and The Swan Riders - Prisoners of Peace book 2 by his wife Erin Bow at the same time. I was reading the eBook of this and a printed advance copy of Swan Riders. Slowly this book started monopolizing more and more of my time until I rushed through to finish it first. It got to the point where I just could not put this book down, I ended up taking a long lunch at work to finish it one day.
This story is gripping with a great intensity even with the slow pace of the story and is compelling in the message it conveys and how it is presented. It a world founded on lies and secrets a group of humans spread across thirteen cities suspended in chasms live a perilous life. The sun will easily kill humans if in it directly for long, but there are monsters in the fog below on the ground. Much of the technology that brought them here was lost in the first few days because of how harsh an environment it is and wiring just fried. And now their world is about to be turned upside down.
Simon Daud just wanted to be a pilot. And on his final flight test something goes terribly wrong. His brother is lost and he is horribly burned. But he survived. But soon his life is in upheaval as he finds out secrets his friends, his brother and even his mother had kept from him. He must decide if he will help the group known as grounders. But all that changes when his city is sabotaged and crashed to the ground. And with that he is abandoned to the fog forest. And this is where things get even more interesting. Tic Tic Tic.
This book as mentioned was very hard to put down. In some ways it reminds me of reading Dune by Frank Herbert when I was much younger. And it is also reminiscent of some themes Robert A. Heinlein, especially Stanger in a Strange Land. Humans who want to leave earth and the veil we have done to one another, only to succumb to what we hate most. The masses deceived and fooled by a few for many, many years. And learning to accept the self through finally understanding the alien, and through that recognising the alien within us all.
The characters in this story are masterfully written, from Simon and Eliza to the nefarious Tal. The characters are one of this books greatest strengths. Another is the pace of the plot, the time travelling and learning. The discoveries and having to learn to accept and live with them. And I loved how the story was told back and forth, the first part of the book is Simon's story and then it is told back and forth from both Simon and Eliza or EK-TAAK-TOCK-TAAK, point of view.
Overall I cannot think of a single criticism of this book. The closest would maybe be that I wish it was written in such a way that the story would continue. This is wonderful read in a classic science fiction style and I wish I could give it more than 5 stars!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by James Bow. As well as an author profile and interview with James.
This story is gripping with a great intensity even with the slow pace of the story and is compelling in the message it conveys and how it is presented. It a world founded on lies and secrets a group of humans spread across thirteen cities suspended in chasms live a perilous life. The sun will easily kill humans if in it directly for long, but there are monsters in the fog below on the ground. Much of the technology that brought them here was lost in the first few days because of how harsh an environment it is and wiring just fried. And now their world is about to be turned upside down.
Simon Daud just wanted to be a pilot. And on his final flight test something goes terribly wrong. His brother is lost and he is horribly burned. But he survived. But soon his life is in upheaval as he finds out secrets his friends, his brother and even his mother had kept from him. He must decide if he will help the group known as grounders. But all that changes when his city is sabotaged and crashed to the ground. And with that he is abandoned to the fog forest. And this is where things get even more interesting. Tic Tic Tic.
This book as mentioned was very hard to put down. In some ways it reminds me of reading Dune by Frank Herbert when I was much younger. And it is also reminiscent of some themes Robert A. Heinlein, especially Stanger in a Strange Land. Humans who want to leave earth and the veil we have done to one another, only to succumb to what we hate most. The masses deceived and fooled by a few for many, many years. And learning to accept the self through finally understanding the alien, and through that recognising the alien within us all.
The characters in this story are masterfully written, from Simon and Eliza to the nefarious Tal. The characters are one of this books greatest strengths. Another is the pace of the plot, the time travelling and learning. The discoveries and having to learn to accept and live with them. And I loved how the story was told back and forth, the first part of the book is Simon's story and then it is told back and forth from both Simon and Eliza or EK-TAAK-TOCK-TAAK, point of view.
Overall I cannot think of a single criticism of this book. The closest would maybe be that I wish it was written in such a way that the story would continue. This is wonderful read in a classic science fiction style and I wish I could give it more than 5 stars!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by James Bow. As well as an author profile and interview with James.
August 23, 2016
I have had the privilege of reading James Bow's writing for 25 years...and now I've read his finest work to date. "Icarus Down" is everything you expect from a skilled writer, steeped in the influences of writers like Philip Reeve & Madeline L'Engle, and shows like "Doctor Who". It's exciting, thought-provoking, churning with authentic emotions...and just when you think you have some idea where the story is heading, it plunges from the sky to the ground and up-ends the reader's expectations. It's also dark and brutal, as real life can become, and forces the protagonist Simon Daud to make agonizing choices that help to make it impossible to put this book down. Myself included -- I raced through it in a matter of hours. "Icarus Down" is a stone-cold classic, and someone is going to hopefully make it into one hell of a movie or TV series.
January 26, 2018
After patiently waiting a very long time to read this. I almost threw it away in pain and anger part way through! James Bow you should be immensely proud of your work because very few books generate the level of emotional response in me that this novel did. I am extremely impressed and will be recommending this book to everyone I come across. Well done sir.
February 21, 2017
I thought I was reading this for the world building (because it was fascinating— clockwork machinery, light as a horrifying danger, cities suspended above fog full of monsters) and then at about the halfway mark a couple plot twists charged out of hiding and absolutely flattened me. I missed my bus stop twice because I was reading as fast as my eyes could move.
There are a lot of worldbuilding things I thought were lovely ornamental flourishes, and then instead they were incredibly plausible plot points. There is just so much CRAFT here. *flails arms around*
Side note: naming your space ship Icarus is right up there with going to Carterhaugh in green for just inviting bad things to happen. For the sake of everyone, don't do it.
There are a lot of worldbuilding things I thought were lovely ornamental flourishes, and then instead they were incredibly plausible plot points. There is just so much CRAFT here. *flails arms around*
Side note: naming your space ship Icarus is right up there with going to Carterhaugh in green for just inviting bad things to happen. For the sake of everyone, don't do it.
January 22, 2017
A tremendous sci-fi adventure with a steampunk twist. Incredible world-building and a riveting story with lots of unsettling moments. Using alternating characters to tell the story is very effective, Simon and Eliza each offer the reader a unique perspective. Overarching themes of genocide, truth and reconciliation, and environmentalism are present but never preachy. A very worthwhile and highly enjoyable read.
February 28, 2018
I think this book would be a good book for a younger audience - it’s possible that’s who the target audience was. It was an easy read - enjoyable story, but lacked depth and was predictable in nature
November 17, 2017
What a great YA sci-fi! Full of fascinating world-building, interesting characters, and heart-stopping action! I can see why this won an Aurora Award for best YA novel!
October 30, 2018
For me, this book is boring
April 25, 2018
3.75/5
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An overall fun read. I am pleasantly surprised with this book, it was captivating and held my attention. I liked the friendship between the two main characters. Although it was a slow start, it was worth it.
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An overall fun read. I am pleasantly surprised with this book, it was captivating and held my attention. I liked the friendship between the two main characters. Although it was a slow start, it was worth it.
May 8, 2023
I must start off by saying, I don't like si-fi. However, I enjoyed this book. I didn't like the first half of it but once Eliza is introduced I fell in love. The dynamics between Simon and Eliza was just so heartwarming. There's really nothing else to say other than that.
June 8, 2018
Satisfying. A mystery unfolds, and deeper issues are discussed. Suitable for the adventurous late primary reader.
July 29, 2018
Great science fiction novel which explores humanity's tendency to fall short of achieving justice and equity when building society.
Read
June 26, 2018it is a very good story that truly ties in to the story of icarus
May 30, 2017
This is a gripping and humane story with a well-imagined world - cities half-way up cliffs under a burning sun, a monster-haunted fog below and secrets all around. Simon Daud loses his brother in a horrific accident that leaves him scarred and alone - and his problems have only just begun. But there's a lot more packed into this story than just the action - it also explores interesting ideas around genocide and colonialism.
November 26, 2021
The author James Bow makes the novel Icarus Down stand out because of the word choice and the art on the front page. The book was so hard to put down and must have finished the book in days while reading for more than hours at every given time. I feel like Icarus Down is made for teenagers 10-18 years old who would like to read about action, death, and friendship. James Bow created Simon Daud as a relatable younger sibling who has an older sibling that is considered as a ‘Golden Boy.’
May 26, 2017
A captivating story that holds a mirror to our own society as it tells of survivors from a destroyed earth seeking to establish themselves on a new planet. A tale of truth and reconciliation, forgiveness and understanding, and justice for all. A thrilling read for young adults of all ages, especially those who like science fiction.
November 13, 2016
James Bow proves with his latest novel that he's an exceptional world-builder, and plays with big ideas (colonization, genocide). That he's able to do so in a briskly-paced and easily-read YA makes me hopeful that a wide readership will soak this thing up.
November 10, 2016
I enjoyed this young adult science fiction novel. The idea isn't new--humans have destroyed earth and need to find a new home--but I liked how it explored issues of justice and revenge.
Read
September 7, 2017This is a great book for anyone who enjoys a fast-paced sci fi.
February 20, 2018
Its kinda ok. But for me a book should capture my attention by the third chapter, it didn't.
July 28, 2024
Representation: N/A
Trigger warnings: Murder, building collapse, death of a brother, near-death experience, displacement
Score: Five out of ten.
Icarus Down by James Bow is not a masterpiece. However, it's enjoyable.
The worldbuilding is fine. I had a few questions, though. The characters were flat and were only there to move the plot along.
It begins with the death of Simon's brother, Isaac. Then, it cuts to Simon living in a city called Iapyx. It's like a flying refugee city. No electricity works in Icarus Down. Everything runs on steam so how did they fly the ship and place it on the planet?
The first half revolves around Simon in Iapyx. The city collapses but he survives. He meets some weird creatures. There is no explanation as to why they're there. Issues like these are recurrent and irritating. The worldbuilding isn't thought out.
The second half concerns Simon and Eliza. They discover the old mothership. It has a recording of how it got there. It explains some information about the world like the government is malicious because they killed an entire alien species. How cliché. They sent humanity to a deserted wasteland planet. The way Earth ended was banal. There were four countries who wiped the world with nuclear powers. They saved the remaining people. I found that unrealistic.
In the concluding pages, Simon and Eliza gathered the people to take down the dystopian government. Police arrested the culprits. The remaining 12 cities moved to another planet. I'm surprised they still work. They sat there for almost a century. There is no electricity. I'm confused. The ending was alright.
Trigger warnings: Murder, building collapse, death of a brother, near-death experience, displacement
Score: Five out of ten.
Icarus Down by James Bow is not a masterpiece. However, it's enjoyable.
The worldbuilding is fine. I had a few questions, though. The characters were flat and were only there to move the plot along.
It begins with the death of Simon's brother, Isaac. Then, it cuts to Simon living in a city called Iapyx. It's like a flying refugee city. No electricity works in Icarus Down. Everything runs on steam so how did they fly the ship and place it on the planet?
The first half revolves around Simon in Iapyx. The city collapses but he survives. He meets some weird creatures. There is no explanation as to why they're there. Issues like these are recurrent and irritating. The worldbuilding isn't thought out.
The second half concerns Simon and Eliza. They discover the old mothership. It has a recording of how it got there. It explains some information about the world like the government is malicious because they killed an entire alien species. How cliché. They sent humanity to a deserted wasteland planet. The way Earth ended was banal. There were four countries who wiped the world with nuclear powers. They saved the remaining people. I found that unrealistic.
In the concluding pages, Simon and Eliza gathered the people to take down the dystopian government. Police arrested the culprits. The remaining 12 cities moved to another planet. I'm surprised they still work. They sat there for almost a century. There is no electricity. I'm confused. The ending was alright.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews