Navohar

ISBN: 0-451-45788-9 Order from: Amazon.com

A tense science fiction adventure with a rather conventional plot, this novel suffers due to predictability and lack of plausibility.

Reviewed by David on May 28, 2001

Genre: Science Fiction (Epidemic, Biology, Aliens)

Synopsis: Humanity had engineered a lethal plague to fight off an alien invasion. In the desperation of biological combat, a deadly side-effect was missed—the plague affected human children, and now many of Earth's youth are facing a terminal wasting decease.

Irene Olsen, one of the biologists responsible for the plague is a member of an interstellar expedition, one of many hoping that one of the early colonies have found a way to combat the decease. After many failed colonies, Olsen and the crew are happy to find one with survivors, even if the colonists on Navohar have lost most of their technology.

But, despite their seeming friendliness, Irene believes the colonists, and the planet are hiding something.

Full Review: An interesting biological premise to humanity's desperation does not extend too far in making this novel intriguing. A not-unusual novel of an explorer going native, understanding the mysteries of a local society, and taking their side in the conflict with the home planet here is telegraphed well in advance. The mystery seemed obvious, and the noble, primitive colonists seemed less than attractive.

This predictability, coupled with a vague desire to clobber the good guys made reading this novel a less than joyful experience.

Overall: 4.5; Plot: 4; Characters: 5; Style: 4.5; World-building: 4.5; Originality: 4;

ISBN: 0-451-45788-9 Order from: Amazon.com