Ascension

A fantastic debut novel

There is so much to like about this space opera. The plot is multi-layered, the world-building is strong, the characters represent a far more diverse cross-section of humanity than usual, and the prose is lovely.

The science behind the technology is rather vague, so I would consider this "soft" rather than "hard" science-fiction. Readers who eagerly pore over ship and weapon schematics may find the story lacking. Readers whose primary interest is in characters' interaction and relationships will find plenty of substance here.

The main protagonist is a flawed but fierce personality with fears and pain with which she constantly struggles, but is often strong enough to override...

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