Science Fiction

Background

Published in 1979, is a novel set in a far-future world where the East rules the West. The story explores a post-apocalyptic setting where a computer named ARDNEH alters the laws of physics to prevent nuclear explosions, inadvertently making technology obsolete and allowing magic to flourish. This blend of science fiction and fantasy features a struggle against the oppressive Empire of the East, led by a peasant farmer named Rolf who becomes a key figure in the resistance movement.

My Thoughts

I grew up with Fred Saberhagen’s books in my home so I thought I’d give this one a go. Honestly, it wasn’t that great. The premise seems fine, but I guess there were so many ways he could have take the book and I was disappointed in where it went.

Recommendation

I’d skip this one.

Background

Published in April of 2022, “AI Wars” by Ross Buzzell is the fourth book in the Legacy Earth series. The story continues the adventures of Lance Warder and his squad, Hrafn, as they face a new threat from an ancient artificial intelligence known as the Reeves. This AI force emerges from a mysterious area of space called the Dark Pillar, challenging humanity and other galactic races. The novel explores the consequences of past human actions and their creation of advanced AI, as well as the ethical and existential dilemmas they now face. The Hrafn squad must navigate complex alliances and fierce battles, striving to protect the galaxy from this formidable foe while uncovering deeper secrets about the AI’s motives and history

My Thoughts

Our hero continues climbing the social and military latter as he once again saves everyone from evil. Lance Warder can’t be stopped and even his enemies learn to like him. (Or at least respect him.)

Recommendation

The books are getting too formulaic. I think I’m going to drop the series.

Background

Published in February of 2022, “Deterrence Expedition” is the third book in Ross Buzzell’s Legacy Earth series. The story unfolds two years after a devastating attack that left 80,000 people dead, with evidence pointing to a Galio super-weapon as the cause. As Earth faces mounting threats from the galaxy’s most powerful empire, Lieutenant Lance Warder is thrust into a dangerous mission to stop the impending onslaught. Joined by the enigmatic Jarog operative Valdivia, Warder and his team must navigate the complexities of interstellar politics and warfare, uncovering hidden dangers as they march into unexplored space. The novel explores themes of resilience, duty, and the harsh realities of a galaxy on the brink of war​.

My Thoughts

Lance Warder does it again with his manly swagger. This futuristic John Wayne takes on all comers and comes out the other side victorious. The reader had a chance to see some new cultures and species but they all seem to be cut from the same cloth.

Recommendation

The books are getting a bit predicable.

Background

Published in 2011, “Ready Player One” is a science fiction novel written by Ernest Cline. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows Wade Watts, a young protagonist who escapes the harsh reality of his impoverished world by entering the virtual reality world known as the OASIS. When the eccentric creator of the OASIS, James Halliday, passes away, he leaves behind a challenge for all OASIS users—a high-stakes treasure hunt for an Easter egg that promises immense wealth and control over the virtual world. Wade embarks on a quest filled with ’80s pop culture references and puzzles, competing against a powerful corporation, and forming unlikely alliances in both the virtual and real worlds. As the race intensifies, Wade discovers the true implications of the game and the consequences it could have for society.

My Thoughts

I originally thought to listen to this book while I was running a half marathon but I decided against it. However, it stuck in my mind and I realized I hadn’t watched the movie as of yet. Big mistake! Wow, that movie had almost nothing to do with the book… Don’t watch the movie!!!

So, I had to re-read the book. I loved it again! This hits me in all the right places as it touches on so much of my childhood and the things I loved back then.

Recommendation

Love it! If you were a computer loving child of the 80’s, I think you will love it too.

Background

Published in September of 2021, “Legacy Earth” is a science fiction novel by author Mike Buzzell. Set in the year 2256, the story follows the adventures of a group of humans who have been living on a distant planet for generations after Earth was destroyed in a catastrophic event. When they discover evidence that Earth may still exist, a small team is sent on a dangerous mission to confirm the discovery and possibly reclaim their ancestral home. Along the way, they encounter unexpected allies and enemies, and must confront the consequences of the choices their ancestors made in order to survive. The novel explores themes of environmentalism, the search for identity and belonging, and the impact of technology on society.

My Thoughts

This was an interesting book as it took several liberties with history and the military to build out a possible scenario for the future. It took a bit to get started as the main character is a little too good for belief. He doesn’t seem to slow down as the book goes on but the other characters become more likeable as they become fleshed out. There were a few things that were discordant to me which likely shouldn’t have been given that it is set 500 years in the future. Still, my exposure to Marines makes me less-than-sympathetic to people who haven’t done their research on their culture. I got over it though.

Recommendation

It was a good enough book for me to get in the door to the series. Let’s see where it goes from here.