Liked It“This book is kind of a classic space opera, with all kinds of exotic elements. The "Risen Empire" alludes to the fact that the emperor has found a way to bring himself back from the dead, by means of a symbiont, which he has developed. This symbiont has been given to privileged people only, of...” see full review » see other reviews » |
“This book is kind of a classic space opera, with all kinds of exotic elements. The "Risen Empire" alludes to the fact that the emperor has found a way to bring himself back from the dead, by means of a symbiont, which he has developed. This symbiont has been given to privileged people only, of course, in his 80 world empire. There's an evil enemy, human based, but supports of hive mind, bent on converting the empire. There's a love interest that's tragic, and plenty of politics, betrayal, and military derring-do. There's also a secret, about the symbiont, which has fallen into enemy hands, on a far-flung planet, close to the enemy border. Mr. Westerfeld doesn't disclose the secret, of course, in the first volume, so now I'm trying to get my hands on the 2nd volume, which I should have soon. This is a really good read, and I recommend it.”
Acur81 wrote this review Wednesday, September 16 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No“The book's cover notes a resemblance to Asimov's Fondation and Herbert's Dune. I wouldn't say the novel is as clever and deep as them, but it's sure as hell as entertaining. The SF is smart, and the action starts at the first sentence and rarely lets go. This is smart action SF, with interesting characters, mind-blowing tech ideas, and exciting space battles. I was literally bouncing throughout the first 100 pages.
Be warned that this book is half of the original manuscript called 'Succession'. This means 'The Risen Empire' ends pretty abruptly. Be sure to have Book 2, 'The Killing of Worlds', on hand when you finish this one - you'll thank me!”
“Excellent book that combines the Sci Fi genres Space Opera and Hard Sci Fi. Story centers around two characters, Captain Laurent Zai and his unlikely lover, Senator Nara Oxham. While the intricate space battles and politics are given center stage, its the undertones of the novels that sucked me in. Set in a society where immortality is a reality, what catalysts are there for change and progress? And what would the leaders of that society do to protect the status quo?”
Bryce wrote this review Sunday, April 19 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No“Elegant.”
Kira G wrote this review Friday, March 20 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No“i am interested to see where this series goes. was a little hard to follow at first but by the end i was sad to see the epilogue.”
californiameaghan wrote this review Wednesday, December 31 2008. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No“I have now read six books written by Scott Westerfeld (which include Uglies, Pretties, Specials and Extras) and in my opinion Mr. Westerfeld is very gifted writer. His writing is fluid and easy to follow whether he describing an action sequence or political intrigue. More importantly, he develops plots that are interesting and thought provoking. Mr. Westerfeld has the potential to become one of greats in sci-fi literature.
The Risen Empire & The Killing of Worlds were written before Scott Westerfeld published his two Young Adult series, Uglies & Midnighters, which he has become known for. I recommend picking up both books at the same time as the first book ends in a major cliffhanger. Trust me, I am saving you a trip back to bookstore.
For more of this review please visit http://robotsandvamps.com/?p=614”
“This was a fantastic read. Awesome technology and military sci fi concepts applied in a tactically believable way. Just a great read and good start to the story to be finished in the 2nd book.”
Aaron L wrote this review Thursday, April 24 2008. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No“Very good SiFi story. Some very interesting concepts and characters. Very recommended”
Little Timmy B wrote this review Tuesday, July 28 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No