A review by wynnz
Brute Force by Scott Meyer

adventurous funny lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

In this uproariously entertaining tale, "Brute Force," humanity finds itself thrust into the midst of an intergalactic conflict as the most violent species in the universe. However, there's a twist: they are recruited by a pacifistic species to fight against an enemy whose ancient military traditions are more comical than effective. What unfolds is a side-splitting account of thousands of deaths that will leave you laughing and pondering the absurdity of war. 

From the very beginning, the juxtaposition of humans being branded as the most violent species in the universe is a stroke of brilliance. It forces readers to confront their own preconceived notions about humanity's place in the cosmos while setting the stage for the satirical comedy to follow. The sheer irony of humans, with all their destructive tendencies, becoming the unlikely saviours of a peaceful race, is a recipe for hilarity. 

The enemy the humans face is an intriguing contrast—a species steeped in ancient military traditions but lacking intelligence. This combination creates a perfect storm of humorous situations as the enemy's ill-conceived tactics lead to one catastrophe after another. From tripping over their own weapons, their antics will keep readers in stitches. The author skilfully crafts these comedic moments without undermining the gravity of war, striking a delicate balance that keeps the story both light-hearted and poignant. 

What truly shines in this narrative is the clever writing and sharp wit. The author's ability to blend satire, slapstick humour, and thought-provoking social commentary is commendable. The characters, especially the human soldiers, are depicted with depth and nuance, offering a reflection of our own complexities. Through their interactions, the story examines themes of violence, pacifism, and the absurdity of conflict in a way that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. 

While "Brute Force" expertly navigates the humorous aspects of war, it does not shy away from the serious consequences and sacrifices. It reminds us that even in the face of absurdity, there are real lives at stake and genuine emotions at play. This delicate balance between comedy and tragedy is handled with sensitivity, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their experiences on a deeper level. 

However, it's worth noting that humour is subjective, and what might evoke laughter for one reader could fall flat for another. Some may find the comedic elements too exaggerated, detracting from the story's overall impact. Additionally, those seeking a purely light-hearted comedy may find the exploration of deeper themes to be too heavy-handed. 

In summary, "Brute Force" is a brilliantly conceived and skilfully executed story that delivers laughs, while simultaneously challenging our perceptions of violence and war. The hilarious mishaps of the enemy species, combined with the thought-provoking commentary on humanity, create a compelling narrative that will leave readers chuckling and contemplating the contradictions of our existence. Strap in for a wild and laughter-filled ride through the cosmos in this uproarious tale of unconventional heroes and the absurdity of war.  You've got love AI I could not write a review like this in a million years, but funnily enough it's written exactly what I was thinking of writing, how ironic!