Review: Futuristic Sci Fi Novel High in Suspense, Action, and Political Intrigue
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 20, 2014
“Destiny: Illusions” is the first novel in a series of sci-fi political thrillers, and it’s an exciting, engrossing read. The story is set in the future, and it turns out that Earth is not the only planet with life. A neighboring planet, Saffron, hosts the Peridians; the two races have even forged an alliance. However, the relationship sours when the Peridians’ “random” inspection of an Earth civilian craft results in gunfire and bloodshed, and as the story progresses and peels back the layers of Saffron and Earth society, nothing is as perfect as it appears.Following the plot of the novel takes some concentration—there’s a wide range of characters, most of them engaged in intrigue or strategy.  Once you are into the flow of the story, though, the pace quickens and the different threads begin to weave together seamlessly. The author has a good grasp of the human (and alien) motivation that drives the inhabitants of both Earth and Saffron, and how it all plays out is fascinating if you’re a fan of politics.  However, it’s not all politics—there’s also a lot of action and heroism, especially on the part of Captain Scott Johnston and Commander Grigiore, the half-human/half-Peridian officer. My personal favorite part of the book was the world-building—the vision of a much different Earth (led by a female president, no less) and the wholly different culture of the Peridians add another layer of interest to the book. Finally, the ending generates curiosity for the next installment of the series, while still managing to give the reader a very satisfying “ah-ha!” moment.Recommended to readers who enjoy thoughtful, well-written science fiction that deals heavily with space and alien life, as well as political themes regarding utopia, government, and competition for resources and supremacy.