Bigger than life Peter Hamilton has created a space opera that is big, boisterous, and has something for everyone. Techie types will appreciate this story, chock full of gadgetry and weaponry, while those with more analog tendencies will enjoy succinct social commentary as Hamilton introduces readers to a wide assortment of characters and cultures. With an imagination as large as the universe portrayed, it's a delight to experience the future with this author. Things are not all rosy, however, and Hamilton thrives on depicting the dark as well as the light. Violence and mayhem are vividly portrayed, sometimes leaving the impression of a Stephen King novel rather than a science fiction thriller.
Sexual encounters occur with a regularity that becomes monotonous.
The protagonist, Joshua Calvert, may be a fine male specimen of the human species, but his habit of bedding down with every female he encounters does stretch the bounds of credibility, not to mention good taste. That complaint aside, the plot moves at a fast clip, alternating between various scenarios. This is not really a surprise, because after the first few chapters it becomes apparent that Hamilton's universe will not fit into a single volume. There are just too many heroes to love, villains to hate and worlds to explore. A potent adventure that manages to be fun and scary at the same time.