Set in 2049, this futuristic novel is the first in a five book series. It proposes a realistic scenario for man’s fledgling exploration of space and our neighbouring planets. The book begins innocently enough with an interesting, if not compelling discovery on Mars. Thereafter, it builds into a pacy thriller, encompassing the Earth’s mysterious ancient civilisations, spellbinding historic texts, criminal intent, sadistic cybersystems, failed relationships and adrenaline filled action sequences. A good deal of the action takes place on the surface of Mars – a planet which always fires the imagination, and one which will continue to be of primary scientific focus in the coming decade as the reality of a manned landing draws nearer. Other locations for the book’s exciting storyline include the Moon, a space station and a revolutionary space ship – scenarios that all help to cement a number of subplots into an astonishing, stimulating and thoughtful yarn.
That isn’t sales copy, it’s a book report.
If I were the teacher, I’d give it a 7/10. It lists several facts about the book, but the complete absence of any discussion of the plot or characters means that it really doesn’t deserve any better than a C.