DrEvilO
4/18/2014
Totally lives up to all of the hype.
At first you may think this is going to be a formulaic Space Opera iterative with a few unique elements. What this actually becomes is the perfect SciFi read.
A lot of the book deals with social expectations and control. Very well developed universe that is original, interesting, and creative. Character development pairs with the plot as both naturally develop in an engaging way.
Interesting and suggestive use of advanced AI computers, tightly class and caste social systems, galactic imperialism, religion and fate. Content inclusions add conceptual complexity and depth. Overall impression is of effectiveness, grace, and narrative clarity.
This was a very easy book to return to until the end. Unlike other Space Opera which often use grand scale and frequent character movement to progress the plot, AJ uses narrative and character delivered history of related events.
If this represents the future of the Space Opera genre there are very good things coming.
Now I can't wait for Ancillary Sword.
4.5/5
Cheers,
O.