Review: A riveting knuckle biting sci fi adventure
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 22, 2013
Among the many authors I used to read growing up, I remember when I discovered the Big Three writers: Isaac Asimov, Robert Heinlein, and Arthur C. Clarke. They were science fiction writers known for expanding the genre in its early days. What attracted me most about those early writings was the wonder of space exploration, the excitement of discovery, the adventure in expanding what we knew of the universe in that time period, and of course the ability to create plausible possibilities with what we didn't know. The very definition of creativity. Since then the genre has exploded and branched off, creating numerous sub-genres than could be counted. Some of them spawned some terrific movies and television series. Some created series of books that were fun to read. Many current scientists today can point to those early reads as the catalyst for their careers in science.Unfortunately some of the luster has rubbed off the science fiction (or sci fi) field. For me, the tarnish is due mostly to the loss of wonder, the lack of awe in new discoveries, the encroachment of horror, cynicism, disillusion, and dystopia. Somewhere along the way, I feel we have lost the fun. When I read Cyberspace by Jeff Horton, I felt some of the wonder and fun return. Yes, there is tension and mystery and a race against time. No good story plot can do without some conflict. Yes, there is an antagonist who thinks nothing of killing others to obtain his goal. But it does not need blood and gore to up the ante. Once the tension builds and the reader begins to suspect an inevitable disaster, the suspense makes it difficult to put the book down.In addition to the main elements of the story, there's a smidgen of world politics, a touch of romance, some history, some alien presence, speculation for the future, and a glimpse into a loving family unit. The ingredients may sound a bit old-fashioned to some, but refreshingly works together as a breath of fresh air in comparison to the doom, gloom and crude of modern sci fi. Altogether, I found it a satisfying read and now look forward to reading other books by this author.Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Jeff Horton. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."