As an avid fan of science fiction and adventure, I was excited to dive into “On Impact,” the second book in Heather Texle’s Reliance Sinclair trilogy. The blend of espionage, advanced technology, and complex characters promised an exhilarating ride, and I was eager to see how the story unfolded after the gripping events of the first book, “On Impulse.”
“On Impact” follows Reliance Sinclair as she confronts the fallout of being transformed into a weapon by Tazza Industries, the very organization that once used her as a test subject. The stakes couldn’t be higher, with a galaxy on the brink of war due to an assassination that utilizes illegal bionic technology. I found myself drawn into the fast-paced narrative and Texle’s world-building, which balances action and intricate character development seamlessly.
One of the standout features of the book is Heather Texle’s storytelling ability. The way she weaves tension and urgency into the storyline is impressive. As noted by a reader, Dee Yunke, the book’s intensity escalates as Reliance and her team race against time to capture a dangerous assassin. The pacing keeps you on your toes, and I appreciated how Texle didn’t shy away from exploring the emotional and psychological aspects of her characters—qualities that make them feel very human despite their extraordinary circumstances.
However, relying heavily on that human aspect also leads to some drawbacks. For example, another reader, Marisa Z., mentioned struggling initially with Reliance’s actions and motivations. I found myself relating to this sentiment; at times, Reliance’s decisions felt frustratingly human, reflecting our real-life complexities. While it’s refreshing to see a hero with flaws, there were moments when I wished she’d taken a more proactive approach. That said, her journey of self-discovery and trust adds depth to the narrative, making her evolution a compelling arc.
Another positive is the rich ensemble cast that supports Reliance. Characters like Felix and Walnut, her cat and guinea pig, add a layer of humor and charm. Their interactions not only provide comic relief but also emphasize Reliance’s struggles with her identity and purpose. Like Barbara Elness pointed out, their contributions are delightful, making you care even more about the outcome of their quest.
Conversely, while the exploration of Reliance’s inner conflict is a highlight, it can also feel prolonged. I sometimes wished for faster momentum during her moments of self-doubt, as they overshadowed the action sequences. Yet, Texle does an admirable job of tying it all back to the overarching plot of saving the galaxy from impending war, which kept me invested.
Overall, “On Impact” is a gripping continuation of the Reliance Sinclair saga, filled with high stakes, humor, and relatable characters. While it may take some time to fully embrace Reliance’s imperfect nature, the journey is undeniably rewarding. The action is thrilling, the characters are engaging, and the stakes feel real. Given its rating of 4.5 stars, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a mix of sci-fi, adventure, and deep character exploration. It’s an exhilarating ride, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment!