Charles Stross – Singularity Sky / Iron Sunrise
I came into contact with the science fiction writings of Charles Stross through his work in Asimov’s (which were all part of the same story line, now compiled into the novel Accelerando, which I haven’t read yet, because it adds new material). Based on these impressions, I bought two of his books, both set in a different story line: Singularity Sky and Iron Sunrise. Well, let me tell you, both exceeded my expectations. Although, in my opinion, not yet up to the level of Iain M. Banks, these novels offer a better balance between readability and interest than Mr. Banks’ novels, that while very interesting, take some time (and effort) to get your teeth into.
The events in both books unfold in an universe in which humanity has been unwillingly scattered throughout space by the Eschaton, a singularity entity presumably created by mankind, which wants to protect it’s own existence by prohibiting the use of causality violation devices within its light cone. Sounds confusing? Well, it’s fertile ground for great writing, well developed characters, and all round good hard(ish) science fiction.
