3.93
Part of "Emberverse" series
"Dies the Fire" by S.M. Stirling is a post-apocalyptic novel that takes place in the modern-day Pacific Northwest. The story follows a diverse group of characters as they navigate a world changed by a mysterious event known as "The Change," which causes all technology and electricity to cease functioning. The novel explores how the characters adapt to their new circumstances, as they must learn to survive without the conveniences of modern society. The main protagonist, a martial arts instructor named Juniper McKenzie, becomes a leader and establishes a community in the Napa Valley. Meanwhile, other characters must deal with the chaos and violence that erupts in the power vacuum left by the collapse of civilization. Stirling's world-building is detailed and imaginative, as he describes how the lack of technology affects everything from agriculture to medicine. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the novel raises thought-provoking questions about the fragility of modern society and the importance of self-sufficiency. One of the strengths of "Dies the Fire" is its focus on the practical challenges of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. The characters must deal with issues such as food storage, water purification, and defense, and the novel is filled with detailed descriptions of their solutions. However, the novel is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing slow, as Stirling spends a significant amount of time setting up the world and introducing the characters. Additionally, the novel's portrayal of gender roles and sexuality has been criticized as regressive. Overall, "Dies the Fire" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of post-apocalyptic fiction. Its detailed world-building and practical approach to survival make it a standout in the genre, despite its flaws...
David Brin
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