Providence

Barry takes a story that has been done countless times before and makes it seem original. The Providence class of spaceship is the ultimate killing machine, and the mismatched quartet of Talia, Gilly, Jolene, and Anders are the crew on one of these destroyers. But with the ship's computers designed to outperform human decision-making, they are virtual bystanders.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2021
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Compelling and innovative, Barry takes a story that has been done countless times before and makes it seem entirely original. In his novel, PROVIDENCE, he explores the concept of a group of mismatched individuals being thrust into the heart of an alien empire, where they must navigate a treacherous and unpredictable landscape.

Once upon a time, humanity approached the aliens in peace, hoping to establish a peaceful coexistence. However, their intentions were not met with kindness. Instead, the aliens annihilated us, leaving a devastating impact on the world. In response, mankind developed the ultimate killing machine, the Providence class of spaceships. These ships are equipped with frightening speed, frightening intelligence, and frightening weaponry, making them the perfect tool for revenge.

With the Providence class of spaceships, it is now the turn of the salamanders to be annihilated. In their millions, they face the wrath of the human race, armed with the most advanced technology available. However, the crew of one of these destroyers is not your typical group of soldiers. Talia, Gilly, Jolene, and Anders are a mismatched quartet who find themselves at the mercy of the ship's computers, which are designed to outperform human decision-making in practically all areas.

As the Providence takes them to the heart of the enemy empire, the crew is left to wonder whether this is a mission of ultimate destruction or, more sinisterly, of ultimate self-destruction. They must navigate a treacherous and unpredictable landscape, where they are constantly tested and pushed to their limits.

One of the most interesting aspects of PROVIDENCE is the way that Barry explores the nature of boredom. The crew is stranded in space, with no communication with Earth, and no end in sight. They are constantly bombarded with social media and video clips, which are their weapons in an endless charm offensive. However, as time goes on, they begin to realize that their chief enemy is not the space reptiles, but each other.

The tension between the characters is palpable, and Barry does an excellent job of building suspense and tension throughout the novel. The crew is constantly at odds with each other, with their personal desires and egos clashing with the mission at hand. This creates a fascinating dynamic, as the crew must work together to survive and complete their mission.

Another aspect of PROVIDENCE that is particularly noteworthy is the way that Barry examines the nature of technology and its impact on human society. The Providence class of spaceships is a marvel of engineering, with its advanced computers and weaponry. However, the crew begins to question whether the ship's computers are truly in control or if they are being manipulated by someone or something else.

This is a theme that has been explored in many science fiction novels, but Barry brings it to life in a way that is both thought-provoking and exciting. He raises questions about the nature of consciousness and the role of technology in shaping our world.

In conclusion, PROVIDENCE is a dazzling, inventive, and thought-provoking new novel from the author of Lexicon. Barry takes a familiar story and turns it into something entirely original, exploring the nature of boredom, technology, and human society in a way that is both exciting and thought-provoking. If you are a fan of science fiction or just looking for a novel that will challenge your perspective, then I highly recommend PROVIDENCE.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529352078