Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space

The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Let me start by saying that there were some genuinely interesting aspects to this book; I particularly liked the metaphysical nature of the world-building.

While I don't entirely agree with comments claiming the book is hard to follow, I can see where they are coming from. The world-building is solid, but it could have been made a bit more accessible for casual readers.

Additionally, I was left wanting more from the resolution. It felt like there were little to no consequences for the actions taken. As for the sister, there were moments when she felt a bit two-dimensional, and I would have liked to see more exposition regarding her character. The final big confrontation also felt a little short.

All in all, I enjoyed the book. It introduces some genuinely interesting concepts, but it ultimately could have been expanded a bit. I hope this is the start of a series, as I would love to see a further exploration of these characters—in particular, the sister.

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Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space

The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



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Review: A Darker Magic

A Darker Magic by Glynn Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great book in the Starship's Mage series.

Whilst some I notice have bemoaned the minor appearances of Damion the titular mage I for one have enjoyed once again seeing Roselyn develop as a character. She is once again thrown into the fray at the behest of Mars and *possible spoiler* handles the somewhat inevitable maelstrom with aplomb.

I'm pretty sure we will see her become a hand at some point and can't wait to see how her character progresses in subsequent books.

Yes, it would be nice to see DM more often in the stories but, his elevated position somewhat necessitates the rise of other principle protagonists.

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Review: The Infinity Gauntlet

The Infinity Gauntlet by Jim Starlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What can I say really? this is one of those classic Marvel stories.
To my chagrin it is also one which I have not previously read despite my love for comics and Marvel. In fairness it has actually been on my self for a while and finally decided it was time to read it.

If you have seen the movie story-line, it will come as no surprise that it varies a fair bit. The comic tale is deeper includes a myriad of characters not included in the movies (for legal reasons and those of brevity). I've always liked Adam Warlock as a character and was patiently waiting for his appearance but, I was left a little flat. I understand that the movies could not replicate his key role in the story in the way the comic did but, I felt they could have done more.

One of the key differences is one of Thanos' motives. I've always found it amusing that the true reason for the "snap" was one of love. In his desperation to woo lady Death he effectively kills half the universe. Less of the moral justification present in the movies.

If you want a timeless Marvel tale with a little more depth than the movies and a greater roster of characters then give this a read

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Review: Atmosphere

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Whilst the book is a work of fiction, it highlights the very real struggle for gender equality at NASA in the 1980s.

The story focuses on a group of "AsCans" (Astronaut Candidates) training to earn a place on the early space shuttle flights. The principal candidates are female trainees who have finally been accepted into the program. At the center of it all is Joan, a brilliant teacher who has been obsessed with the night skies since childhood. Throughout the book, we see her struggles with breaking barriers, balancing family, and navigating her sexuality.

I won't go into too much detail, but let's just say she is a devoted aunt to her sister's child. Her sister frequently takes advantage of Joan's love for her niece; she is the sort of person who clearly loves her child but has a strong tendency to focus on herself.

This is definitely worth a read if you were around in the '80s or have any interest in NASA history.

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Review: New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies

New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies by Jonathan Hickman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Really enjoyed this story we get to see more of the Illuminati of superheroes, the self imposed custodians of the Infinity Gems. This occurred a good year or so after I stopped reading X-Men but, I believe it occurs shortly after Avengers vs X-Men so, this is at the point when Professor X is dead (he comes back if I remember rightly...this is comics after all).

We get to see some deep moral questioning and watch the Illuminati members struggle with their morals and just what they would do to save parallel world and the multiverse if it meant to destroy another.

Nice to see that Professor X has entrusted Beast with the Gem he was custodian of (ironically in recent comic events I believe have shown Earth 616's Hank to be less than morally virtuous).

Great story from start to finish with great art.

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Review: Elliptical Billiard Balls: Eccentric Short Stories in Sci-Fi, Tech and Alternate Worlds

Elliptical Billiard Balls: Eccentric Short Stories in Sci-Fi, Tech and Alternate Worlds by Neil Rackham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great collection of interesting sci-fi short stories.
Some rather intriguing concepts, ever wondered what dogs would say if they could speak?
Perhaps you have wondered what a business consultant in an ecclesiastical scenario would be like?

Really enjoyed the view of tech entrepreneurs being juxtaposed with the fashion industry

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