Rating: 4.75 stars (out of 5)
Genre: science fiction
Review: Dr. Ryland Grace has been sent on a suicide mission to the Tau Ceti system to try to figure out why, of all the nearby systems, it remains unscathed in the face of an instellar infestation that's causing our sun to dim, which will result in another extinction event on Earth. His crewmates have died, and he's got coma-brain, so it takes him a while to remember where he is and why he's there. The reader follows along with Dr. Grace as he slowly regains his memory and sets to work. As a narrator, he has an extremely accessible voice. You can totally imagine yourself being friends with this wry, sardonic, and wickedly smart guy.
As engaging as Dr. Grace is, this book is not without its flaws. For one thing, there is a lot of math in this book. Like, a lot. And I'm sure it's all completely correct, though I confess that I kind of skimmed those parts. But as much as the author seems to think that we're all going to understand the math, he also seems to think that we need to be told that Venus is the 2nd planet in our solar system. Also, the Hail Mary is the most advanced piece of engineering and technology ever assembled, but its computer isn't even as smart as my home assistant. It doesn't help Dr. Grace do anything (except stay alive through his extended coma, which, ok, yes, is pretty important, but once he's awake, he's on his own).
Still, these are easily overlooked in favor of this compelling story, as we wait with baited breath as Dr. Grace holds the fate of humanity is in hands. Can he solve this seemingly insurmountable problem? You'll be rooting for him, and you'll find his experiences stay with long after you read the last page.
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for this review.
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