Review: A seamless entry into the Wool universe
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 6, 2013
First, I'd like to say that it is unprecedented and extremely generous that Hugh Howey is allowing other authors to explore the Wool universe, and profit from it nonetheless.  Because otherwise, stories like Greatfall may not have ever existed.If you're familiar at all with Gurley's other works, you know that his approach to storytelling isn't just a surface narrative.  There is subtext permeating through every one of his stories, and Greatfall is no exception.  Too much science fiction and fantasy seem to be overly focused on the how and not the why; lifeless characters stumbling through predictable and unfulfilling stories.  With Greatfall, Gurley continues to approach storytelling with themes that anyone can digest or empathize with.  And this is why his narratives are so strong.Greatfall is a study in both psychological evolution, and the deconstruction of human nature when we are forced to coexist in a claustrophobic society.  Gurley effortlessly uses Howey's universe as a backdrop, but also manages to make it his own.  It both feels like an extension and something new.  There are moments of tension, sadness, and hope all within this brief first installment and I can't wait to see how the rest of the tale unfolds.