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A review by mary_soon_lee
Cold Welcome by Elizabeth Moon
3.0
"Cold Welcome" begins a new military science fiction adventure centered on Ky Vatta, heroine of the earlier five-book Vatta's War series. As with the earlier series, I find Ky a likable, impressive, highly competent heroine. While Ky is the central figure, there are a number of other point-of-view characters, and it pleased me that these include her (highly competent) great aunt. I like reading about intrepid and capable older women.
Spoilers ahead.
I found the latter half of the book consistently engaging. It lacked, however, fuzzy warm moments to soften my heart. There's little kindness or comfort to be found. Moreover, the rather appealing animals that briefly appear toward the end of the book meet a brutal end.In place of cuddliness, "Cold Welcome" offers competence and a compelling plot.
3.5 out of 5 capable stars.
About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
Spoilers ahead.
Spoiler
The book includes a lengthy chunk where Ky is in charge of a group of military personnel trying to survive in freezing conditions. I found this section mildly enjoyable, but not hugely so. Later, the book takes a couple of turns, one involving Master Sergeant Marek and another involving the original builders of a vast underground facility. Both these turns upped my interest in proceedings.I found the latter half of the book consistently engaging. It lacked, however, fuzzy warm moments to soften my heart. There's little kindness or comfort to be found. Moreover, the rather appealing animals that briefly appear toward the end of the book meet a brutal end.
3.5 out of 5 capable stars.
About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).