A review by manuphoto
Consider Phlebas by Iain M. Banks

adventurous emotional fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

On the surface, this book is a classic space opera. Lots of action, we follow Horza and a group of space pirates in the midst of a war between the Culture and the Idirans. Nothing fancy here, right? Well, think again.

Consider Phlebas has many strengths. First, Banks' writing chops. The man just knew how to tell a compelling story. He grabbed me in the first few pages and took me all the way to the end of the book. The pacing is great, the action scenes fantastic (and sometimes quite gruesome), the characters well-defined, and the whole thing is just a pleasure to read. The main characters have arcs, and we actually care about them. Just don't get too emotionally attached…

The second great aspect of this novel is its universe. We hear of the Culture, we are told about the Culture, we see glimpses of it, but we are never in it. This book is an appetizer for what's to come in the series. We meet this fantastic thing that Banks has created and are immediately curious to know more. And he did that in a space opera with lots of explosions, some snarky drones, and three-legged giant aliens. I just can't wait to read more in the series. Between Banks' writing and the scope and creativity of this universe, it's going to be tremendous.