Review: Contemplative sci-fi
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 4, 2013
This science fiction novel tackles some seriously deep themes. One of its two protagonists, Steffor, is a Guardian. In his society, the role of Guardian is a responsibility assigned to those who have a special, inner connection to an environmental, planetary deity called the Provider. As a plot device, this bears comparison to the "Force" from Star Wars, yet it is a more adult notion. Guardians are, if I may draw a Terran comparison, deeply Buddhist, and meditation is integral to their lives. Various characters probe ontological questions of rebirth, creation and enlightenment.The other hero, 23-year-old Stalling, is part of a different, scientific society and he faces another set of moral challenges. He is potentially a great leader for freedom on his oppressed planet of Antium. For much of the novel the connection between his and Steffor's tales is not clear, but eventually the author does weave the plot threads together to create a delicious cliffhanger. I can't wait to read the next part of the trilogy.