Review: Good read from a new author
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 02 24, 2014
I was raised on a staple diet of science fiction, and do you know what I love about it? The diversity.Take military sci-fi, for example. In my humble opinion that’s the sub-genre where this book belongs, and it can be a pretty difficult one in which to write. One major aspect that makes it so difficult is the application of advanced, future weaponry in a war being conducted between rival races/planets. All too often, authors overlook the details of how and why such weaponry can turn the tide of a war, and, in most cases, win it for them. What I liked about D.F. Laborde’s Won Race is that he didn’t just assert the use of cutting-edge weapons in a superior war, he supplemented their purpose with an explanation behind his technology. Well done, Mr. Laborde. You’ve aimed where many have not even tried.A steady, debut effort by this new author, Won Race explores a conflict from each faction involved, offering insights into their struggles, their reasons, their objectives, and how far they’ll go to achieve them. Very interesting when you want an understanding of the minds and machinations behind those who value conflict as the accomplishment, the means to their end.With every new race introduced (and there are a few!), every now and then I kind of strained to understand whose perspective I was following, and I had to re-read certain passages again to get the gist of what was occurring, something that... well... it does make my right eye go a bit twitchy at times!Generally, though, this a good, entertaining, thoughtful read, with an array of colorful characters and enough intrigue to satisfy all you military sci-fi enthusiasts! I’m sure you’ll enjoy the elements involved here, but far be it from me to give away or even outline any plot details. You’re just going to have to read it yourself.