Far from the Light of Heaven: A triumphant return to science fiction from the Arthur C. Clarke Award-winning author

Tade Thompson's novel "Ragtime" is a gripping space opera that explores the consequences of humanity's journey to the stars. Set aboard a colony ship, the story follows a mysterious and sinister mystery that unfolds as the skeleton crew of the ship is forced to make decisions that will have repercussions for all of humanity's settlements. The novel is praised for its economy and freshness of approach, as well as its ability to balance inspired universe building with high-octane action and emotional depth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Review:


"Ragtime" is a captivating and skillfully told science fiction novel by Tade Thompson, winner of the Arthur C. Clarke Award. Set in an interstellar setting, the novel feels as real, immediate, and lethal as today's headlines.


The story revolves around the colony ship Ragtime, which has traveled light years from home to bring one thousand sleeping souls to safety among the stars. However, not all of the sleepers will wake, and a profound and sinister mystery unfolds aboard the gigantic vessel. The skeleton crew of the Ragtime is forced to make decisions that will have repercussions for all of humanity's settlements, from the scheming politicians of Lagos station to the colony planet of Bloodroot and other far-flung systems.


"Ragtime" is a gripping space opera that features characters fighting for their lives aboard a dying starship. The novel seamlessly blends inspired universe-building with high-octane action and emotional depth. It perfectly balances the need for world-building with intense and engaging storytelling.


The characters in "Ragtime" are well-developed and relatable, with their motivations and struggles driving the narrative forward. The novel explores themes of identity, survival, and the consequences of our actions in a thought-provoking and thought-provoking way.


Tade Thompson's writing style is elegant and concise, with an economy and freshness of approach that is all his own. The setting in "Ragtime" is interstellar, but it feels as real, immediate, and lethal as today's headlines. The novel's attention to detail and vivid descriptions bring the reader fully into the world of the Ragtime and its inhabitants.


Overall, "Ragtime" is a must-read for fans of science fiction and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and compelling story. Tade Thompson's talent as a writer is evident in this unforgettable vision of humanity's future in the chilling emptiness of space.


Conclusion:


In conclusion, "Ragtime" is a gripping space opera that offers a unique and captivating perspective on humanity's future in space. Tade Thompson's writing style is elegant and concise, with an economy and freshness of approach that is all his own. The novel's attention to detail and vivid descriptions bring the reader fully into the world of the Ragtime and its inhabitants. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with their motivations and struggles driving the narrative forward. The themes of identity, survival, and the consequences of our actions are thought-provoking and thought-provoking. "Ragtime" is a must-read for fans of science fiction and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and compelling story.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 127 x 195 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780356514321