A review by ianbanks
Helliconia Winter by Brian W. Aldiss

5.0

And it ends, still a few centuries before true Winter descends upon the world. This time the story is a little less epic, but still compelling, as the cycle comes a little closer to home. The Earth Observation Station is a ruin, as is Earth, and Helliconia itself seems to be descending slowly into hibernation. There's a lot here to depress you, as Helliconian society seems determined to do the work of the winter for it and wipe itself out. People behave badly and do stupid things in the name of things even more ridiculous than themselves. However, this story does contain the Great Wheel, one of the most magnificent Big Dumb Objects in all of spec fic, which makes the journey worthwhile. It also contains Hope, one of the best things in the world. This is a much shorter volume than the previous two but it feels no less immense or weaker for it. It ends with a cry against tyranny as society begins to shrink and huddle in on itself. Questions are answered, more are asked, and you begin to wonder if it (meaning everything, really) is really worth it at all. But the hint is that there is always something of value to inspire us and keep us going. Like this series.