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Book Review - Embers of War

Epic Space Opera, Big Action, Big Thrills


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Embers of War by Gareth L. Powell from Titan Books


I admit to binging on space opera's lately: Last year I went through Ann Leckie's Ancilliary Justice trilogy, which was so incredible it reenergized my passion for space opera, (I do plan on reviewing here soon!) The Prefect by Alastair Reynolds, an absolute nail biter with fascinating concepts, and Unconquerable Sun by Kate Elliott was breathless entertainment and intrigue on a grand cinematic scope. Now that Mr. Powell's full Embers of War trilogy is released and on my bookshelf, I plan on tearing through them with all speed.

His first book, Embers of War, sets the bar high and did an excellent job drawing me in and establishing the pace quickly! Mr. Powell did a nice job handling the difficult emotions of regret over past deeds and the harm you cause the world, or universe in this case. I also greatly enjoyed his take on space ship AI and their origins and how that affects them.

A few veterans of a war that ended only a few years ago, struggle with themselves and their actions as they each are drawn into a roiling cauldron of tension around an unprovoked attack in a contested area of space, and a mystery of ship failures that should be impossible.  Each with their own secrets, the characters are propelled into an ever worsening situation. It was not only exciting to have massive original concepts to explore, but have a payoff in this book that satisfies; even as it sets up the books to come.

There is a lot to enjoy here. The writing is well crafted and energetic. The human characters were both relatable and sympatheic, and the non-human characters were thoughtfully constructed and a joy to read. I think the non-human characters might be the authors' favorites.

If you are a fan of fascinating science fiction concepts, space battles, epic struggles of both human conscience and survival and epic journeys, this novel is most assuredly for you!

Rating: 8 out of 10 galaxies

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