The Algebraist - Iain M. Banks > Reviews

Advantages: Good plot, Intriguing story
Disadvantages: Complex at times

'The Algebraist' is the welcomed return of Iain M Banks (aka Iain Banks) to science fiction and I'm glad to say he has continues where he left off producing another intriguing and cerebral piece of fiction. Iain M Banks is best known for his novels set in the 'Culture' universe (The Player Of Games, Consider Phlebas) dealing with the development of human civilisation thousands of years in the future where machines have been completely integrated ... Read review

Advantages: Creative, thought-provoking, wonderfully alien and yet human
Disadvantages: For the non sci-fi fan: you'll have to trust me!

A gardener at the Autumn House starts to tell us a story…not because he has a role in it, but just because he was there at what might be called a beginning. It's a pleasant introduction…a vaguely oriental setting. Trees and water and family. Home of Seer Taak. Switch. "It had thought it would be safe out here, just one more ambiently black speck deep-chilled in the vast veil of icy debris wrapping the outer reaches of the system like a frozen, ... Read review