Review: Fast-paced, engrossing.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 29, 2011
This book, which has combined elements of both fantasy and scifi, was an enjoyable, action-packed romp.  It sets itself apart by displaying archaic principles of honor and swordplay next to scenes of spaceships and advanced civilizations.Hindmarsh has created a strong and likable protagonist who is beset upon by overwhelming odds and uses an almost magic-like ability to control machines to accomplish his goals.The story will blaze along, never getting bogged down at any one point (and will sometimes move too fast, only mentioning certain events in retrospect).  With enjoyable characters, a complex universe, and a decent revenge plot (that was considerably more civilized and gory-less than I'd have liked), you're sure to be satisfied with this purchase.**Possible Spoiler**My only gripe is that for about the first 88% of the novel the main character is this calm and capable, stoic and smart individual who then, suddenly and at that precise mark and for no apparent reason, turns into a bumbling idiot that falls for the same painfully obvious move twice, is incapable of using any of his previously successful problem solving skills to remedy the situation, and as a result, the story which was previously enjoyable stumbles into an awkward finish.  The change is so abrupt that it appears to me as if the author got through most of the writing and then remembered, "oh, this is supposed to have a sequel," and promptly snipped some ends of the plot, to hopefully be resolved later, so as if to create a cliffhanger that will make us eagerly await the next installment.