I just finished reading “The Stillness” from the “Backyard Starship” series, and let me tell you, my reading adventure was nothing short of exhilarating! As a long-time science fiction enthusiast, I was drawn to the blend of action, character growth, and cosmic intrigue. The promise of the “Stillness” returning, reformed and ready to clash with a new generation led by Abel Tudor, was too tempting to resist. This book has managed to maintain the high stakes and excitement established in earlier installments, which I absolutely appreciated.
First off, I loved the character development. The introduction of young characters like Van’s kids and those of Funboy, Iky, and Mandaville added a fresh layer to the narrative. As noted by RickC77, the dynamic between the seasoned veterans and the newcomers is not only engaging but also feels authentic. The relationships formed through rough patches and shared goals made me deeply invested in each character’s journey.
Another highlight for me was the pacing of the plot. The tension escalates quickly, and I found myself hooked from the beginning. The stakes felt real, especially when the enemy turns their sights on the younger generation, which added a personal touch. As David E. mentioned in his review, the suspense, mixed with intrigue and clever tactical warfare, kept the pages turning. I often found myself gasping at some of the unexpected twists!
However, not everything was perfect. At certain points, I did feel that the pacing slowed a bit, especially in the first few chapters. This echoes the sentiment shared by booknut, who noted that the beginning felt like the authors were regaining their footing. While I ultimately enjoyed the buildup, it did detract slightly from the urgent thrill I was hoping for initially.
Additionally, while the story was engaging overall, the complexity of intertwining storylines occasionally made it difficult to keep track of all the characters, particularly the new additions. Readers who may be less familiar with the previous books might find themselves a bit lost in the rush of names and backstories. However, seasoned fans are likely to relish this expanded universe—something Daniel Lindsey pointed out about the continuity and growth throughout the series.
The official description mentions that “Van Tudor… is older, wiser, and unwavering in his commitment to justice.” I definitely felt that come through. Van’s evolution was compelling, showcasing years of experiences that brought depth to his decisions. His blend of wisdom and battle-hardened fury reflects a well-crafted character that I can’t help but root for.
In conclusion, “The Stillness” overall is a fantastic addition to the series, deserving of its high rating of 4.5 stars from me. While there are minor pacing issues and a bit of character overload, the adventure, character development, and emotional stakes compensate beautifully. If you’re a fan of science fiction that combines cosmic action with heartfelt character arcs, this book is a must-read. I have a strong feeling that the next installment will not only build on these foundations but expand into even more thrilling territory. Highly recommend!