A review by elusivity
Broken Angels by Richard K. Morgan

3.0

In this second novel, Takeshi Kovacs found himself in the midst of planetary war, weary and bored, so that when a wild opportunity came his way, he seized it with both hands.

This is a more straight-forward novel in many ways than Book 1, which was a futuristic noir. Although filled with betrayals and double-bluffs, the plot is generally an adventure and treasure-seeking tale, albeit among exotic battle grounds and an alien spaceship. Takeshi in this novel is also much less compassionate, more gritty, gruff, and prone to mass violence. He also seems to have more war-time leadership quality, capable of intense loyalty to the team.

The wild slaughter towards the end, though -- that he could ruthlessly kill a massive number of soldiers who held him in affection and loyalty just to ensure his future safety. This renders him a much darker character than Book 1 seemed to anticipate.

An exciting addition to the series. Dock 1 star for stretches where the plot seem to meander, and vivid but meaningless characters wandered in, out, and often wasted -- literally. But definitely worth a read. Recommended!