Gateway

Gateway alternates between ordinary and the sublime. On the one hand, you find the book narrating space and space travel in fantastical terms. Yet you find space adventures being referred to in bland terms by the characters in the book. As an avid Science Fiction reader, I found the latter to be a bit off-putting. The excessive mystery associated with Heechee race is just badly played by the author.

The best part of the book is the gradual tension being built leading to a spectacular climax. The worst part is the conversations between von Shrink and the protagonist.

Most of the characters in the book are bland at best. If you are looking for nice character development, this is not the book for you. Pick this book if you want a nice fast read. You won't be disappointed with the ending.