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A review by alex_ellermann
Abaddon's Gate by James S.A. Corey
5.0
Many science fiction sagas slow down around the third outing. The Expanse is picking up steam.
This, third novel of nine, begins in a good place for James Holden and the crew of the Rocinante. They've averted an intrasystem war, they're making good money, and they're even getting along.
But we all know that won't last long. Before we know it, we've embarked on a high-stakes adventure that will keep us turning pages all the way through to the preview for the next novel. That said, compelling plotting and interesting characters aren't what make this book outstanding. The differentiator here is the book's thoughtful and measured approach to theology, both in the cosmic and the personal senses. It's rare for a science fiction novel to put themes front and center; it's rarer still to handle them with such care and empathy - while also writing about gunfights and 'splosions. Additionally, the novel seriously investigates the implications of having a full-blown, hyperintelligent coexisting with humans.
In other words, 'Abaddon's Gate' is both a compulsively readable sci-fi thriller and a Big Idea Novel. That it succeeds at both is remarkable. This is as good as science fiction gets, people. Do yourself a favor and read 'Abaddon's Gate.'
This, third novel of nine, begins in a good place for James Holden and the crew of the Rocinante. They've averted an intrasystem war, they're making good money, and they're even getting along.
But we all know that won't last long. Before we know it, we've embarked on a high-stakes adventure that will keep us turning pages all the way through to the preview for the next novel. That said, compelling plotting and interesting characters aren't what make this book outstanding. The differentiator here is the book's thoughtful and measured approach to theology, both in the cosmic and the personal senses. It's rare for a science fiction novel to put themes front and center; it's rarer still to handle them with such care and empathy - while also writing about gunfights and 'splosions. Additionally, the novel seriously investigates the implications of having a full-blown, hyperintelligent coexisting with humans.
In other words, 'Abaddon's Gate' is both a compulsively readable sci-fi thriller and a Big Idea Novel. That it succeeds at both is remarkable. This is as good as science fiction gets, people. Do yourself a favor and read 'Abaddon's Gate.'