3.62
Part of "Kefahuchi Tract" series
In "Nova Swing," M. John Harrison explores the consequences of humanity's engagement with the mysterious alien artifact, the Shrine, which appeared in his previous novel, "Light." The novel is a complex, multi-layered narrative that combines elements of science fiction, noir, and horror to create a unique and immersive reading experience. Set in the city of Saudade, the novel follows a cast of diverse and intriguing characters, including a private investigator, a musician, and a group of astronauts, as they navigate the strange and often dangerous world of the Shrine. The Shrine has the power to grant wishes, but at a terrible cost, and as more and more people become entangled in its web, the city begins to unravel. Harrison's writing is rich and evocative, creating a vivid sense of place and atmosphere. He explores themes of desire, addiction, and the consequences of our actions, as well as the nature of reality and perception. The novel is not afraid to delve into the darker aspects of human nature, and the result is a thought-provoking and often unsettling read. "Nova Swing" is a complex and challenging novel that rewards careful reading. It is a book that invites the reader to look beneath the surface and consider the deeper meanings and implications of the story. With its intricate plotting, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, "Nova Swing" is a must-read for fans of literary science fiction. Overall, "Nova Swing" is a powerful and compelling novel that showcases Harrison's skills as a writer and his ability to create a rich and immersive world. It is a book that will stay with the reader long after they have turned the final page...
M. John Harrison
Light
If you enjoyed 'Nova Swwing's' exploration of space opera through the lens of literary fiction, you may like 'Light', another novel by M. John Harrison. 'Light' follows three characters whose lives become intertwined with a mysterious artifact known as the Kefahuchi Tract. Like 'Nova Swing', 'Light' is a complex and challenging work that subverts many of the tropes of traditional science fiction.
Learn MoreRichard K. Morgan
Altered Carbon
For readers who enjoyed the noir elements of 'Nova Swing', 'Altered Carbon' by Richard K. Morgan may be of interest. Set in a future where human personalities can be transferred to new bodies, 'Altered Carbon' follows a former soldier who is brought back to life to solve a wealthy man's murder. The novel combines hard-boiled detective fiction with cyberpunk elements, creating a fast-paced and thrilling read.
Learn MoreMary Doria Russell
The Sparrow
If you appreciated the thoughtful and philosophical aspects of 'Nova Swing', you may enjoy 'The Sparrow' by Mary Doria Russell. The novel follows a group of Jesuit priests and scientists who travel to another planet in response to a mysterious signal. 'The Sparrow' explores themes of faith, culture clash, and the nature of humanity, making for a deeply moving and thought-provoking read.
Learn MoreChina Miéville
The City & the City
For readers who enjoyed the surreal and unsettling aspects of 'Nova Swing', 'The City & The City' by China Miéville is a great choice. The novel takes place in two cities that occupy the same physical space but are perceived as separate by their inhabitants. When a woman is murdered in one city, a detective from the other must solve the case while navigating the complex politics and social norms of both cities.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Left Hand of Darkness
If you appreciated the exploration of gender and sexuality in 'Nova Swing', you may enjoy 'The Left Hand of Darkness' by Ursula K. Le Guin. The novel takes place on a planet where inhabitants can choose their gender, and follows a human envoy who must navigate the complex political landscape of the planet while dealing with his own assumptions about gender and sexuality.
Learn MoreAlfred Bester
The Stars My Destination
For readers who enjoyed the fast-paced and thrilling elements of 'Nova Swing', 'The Stars My Destination' by Alfred Bester is a classic of science fiction. The novel follows a man who gains the ability to teleport himself, and becomes embroiled in a plot to destroy a wealthy and powerful family. 'The Stars My Destination' is a thrilling and thought-provoking work that explores themes of revenge, class, and identity.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Dispossessed
If you appreciated the philosophical and political aspects of 'Nova Swing', 'The Dispossessed' by Ursula K. Le Guin is a great choice. The novel follows a physicist who travels from an anarchist society to a capitalist one, and explores the differences between the two societies and the impact they have on the protagonist's life and work.
Learn MoreIain M. Banks
The Culture series
For readers who enjoyed the exploration of technology and its impact on society in 'Nova Swing', the Culture series by Iain M. Banks is a must-read. The series follows a post-scarcity society where humans and artificial intelligences coexist, and explores the ethical and political implications of their actions. The series is known for its wit, humor, and thought-provoking ideas.
Learn MoreJames S. A. Corey
The Expanse series
If you enjoyed the space opera elements of 'Nova Swing', the Expanse series by James S. A. Corey is a great choice. The series follows a diverse
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