Wednesday 20 May 2009

The Cassini Division, Ken Macleod


1998, Orbit
240 pages
Science Fiction

As well as 21st century books, naturally books I review hail from the 20th Century. The Cassini Divison is beyond doubt a sci-fi lover's dream. Spaceships. Alien races who need nuking. Almost sentient spacesuits that can change swiftly from combat gear to pyjamas and a duvet. Not to mention Ellen's quick thinking mind which gets her into trouble as well as out of it.

Part of an elite force, acting to defend those in the Solar Union, the Cassini Division is Ellen's family. Initially on her own, she seeks out her target for extraction. As her mission progresses, the rest of her team accompany her on a mission which, if they fail, could wipe out humanity.

What appealed to me here was the fact that Ellen isn't developing her abilities, she already knows how to use her special suit. It's how she explains her world to her target, and the female who tags along with him. Through their experiences thoughts on morality and ethics are discussed at length. Life on board a spaceship has both highs and lows, all of which are delved into.

I definitely want a spacesuit. It has a mind of its own: tailoring clothes usually to the wearer's choice. Lace, trousers, dress - any material and any outfit can be created within a few seconds. No need for a wardrobe. Dirt is absorbed into the suit. Any unwanted particle is also absorbed into the suit. It can even - no, I mustn't tell you about what it can do to a person's soul. You'll have to read for yourself :)

Paperclips: 2 (reference to physical relations, some language)
TGB: 1 or 2 (I'm sure things got blown up...I've read 8 books since!)
Daggers: 1 (mild)
Tissues: 0

Overall rating: 5

I'm now more immersed in sci-fi than I ever have been. Now, where's my suit...

Ken Macleod can be found here.

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3 comments:

Danyelle L. said...

*am loving your reviews*

Nayuleska said...

Thank you!

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