Past Articles

Friday 1 July 2011

Book: The Temporal Void (Peter F. Hamilton, 2008)


The Temporal Void suffers many of the same trappings that made it predecessor, The Dreaming Void, merely a good book as opposed to a great book. The main issues are with the split narrative between the main events of the book and Ignio's dreams (the latter of which makes up the majority of this second entry), which seem desperately at odd with each other, despite being hugely enjoyable to read. I just feel that, as the Void series is a trilogy, that maybe Peter Hamilton dedicate this entire middle book to the dreams from the void. As a separate book it would have had its own identity whilst giving more room for the reader to relate to the characters, something that is lost when slotting these chapters between the main story arch.

That said, both plot strands are peppered with Hamilton's trade mark for deeply complex conspiracy and heart pounding action that leads on directly from the previous book. Think of the series as one massive work as opposed to three separate instalments and you'll be pleased you've spent the time with this gloriously realised world.

I am, however, having a quick break before moving on to The Evolutionary Void to re-engross myself in the world of George R. R. Martin. I look forward to reading it though.

4/5

No comments:

Post a Comment