Book Review: The Disturbance by Brandon Q Morris
As a fan of hard science fiction, I was drawn to The Disturbance intrigued by its premise of using the sun as a lens to witness the creation of the cosmos. The concept of aligning probes to witness the Big Bang thrilled my imagination, promising a mix of science and philosophical exploration. I decided to dive into this book, eager for an adventure through space and time.
The story follows four astronauts aboard Shepherd-1, with Christine as the lead astronomer. I found her obsessive dedication to uncovering cosmic mysteries endearing, and the tension kicked in when she encountered a veil obscuring the images she sought. The narrative’s intriguing concept is what I’d hoped for—a unique take on astronomical endeavors where "some secrets are meant to be kept."
The pacing throughout the book presents a mixed bag. While some chapters felt quite slow, particularly in the beginning—echoing the concerns of reviewer Anastassios R.—the buildup is necessary for the final revelations. It’s true that nearly half the book passes before the plot’s complexities fully unfold. However, once the pace picks up, the story becomes engrossing, revealing a tapestry woven with suspense, quantum theories, and ethical dilemmas.
The author’s grasp of hard science shines through, especially in the quantum physics section. I resonate with the comments made by reviewers like David E., who highlighted the suspenseful and thought-provoking nature of the narrative. The emotional contours of Christine’s struggles and the implications of her discoveries create a strong connection to the reader, even as we navigate the more technical aspects of the plot.
That said, the book isn’t without its flaws. While I enjoyed the scientific explanations, there were instances that needed more clarity, particularly regarding the organization behind the mission and its apparent lack of oversight. Echoing John Talisker’s critique, the operations team felt thinly fleshed out, as if the author missed an opportunity to fully explore their roles. Additionally, there were moments when the dialogue felt repetitive, which could take the reader out of the immersive experience.
Character development also took a hit. While I appreciated Christine’s depth as a leading character, the supporting cast needed further exploration. Although reviewer John Oshoway mentioned problems with Rachel’s subplot not adding much to the main story, I found the interconnections vital for the eventual plot twists; they just needed stronger execution.
Despite these drawbacks, The Disturbance ultimately delivers on an imaginative level. The blend of suspense and science wrapped in a time-traveling framework feels fresh and invigorating. I particularly enjoyed Morris’s capacity to challenge the characters’ understanding of reality—a hallmark of hard science fiction.
In conclusion, I’d recommend The Disturbance to anyone seeking a thought-provoking and suspenseful read steeped in hard science fiction. While it may not cater to every reader’s pace or taste in character development, the cosmic themes and engaging ideas presented make it well worth a read. It captured my attention and left me curious about its sequels—definitely a worthwhile journey through the stars!
“Explore the thrilling depths of hard science fiction in The Disturbance.” >>