Solar Flare: Science Fiction News

This book is only just Science Fiction. In some ways its only just fiction. Bova has obviously done a vast amount of research into this subject and the result is a book which feels like it is based on real events.

The story is set in the near future and follows the events of the first manned mission to Mars. The lead up to the mission is told in flashback throughout the book.

I’m no expert on the subject, but the science described throughout the book appears to be very realistic. The aims of the mission are suitably modest and the opposing pulls of science and politics create tension as the plot develops.

This is not an action packed book by any means. There is no alien menace, no evil corporations. In fact there is no real “bad guy” at all. All of the large cast of characters are given realistic motivations and the only person who appeared to be developing into a malevolent Machiavelli turned out to be something much more three dimensional.

While there are no “great adventures”, the book is fascinating to read. You are led through the mission teams adjustment to living on Mars and their thoughts as they explore the Martian environment for the first time. Personal and professional rivalries flare and die down again in the hothouse atmosphere. Major scientific discoveries are made.

At the same time, back on earth political deals are being done to try to ensure that there will be further missions. Scientists push for changes to the mission plan as a result of early discoveries while worried politicians simply want to see the mission crew get back successfully.

And throughout, one question is asked again and again. Is there any life on Mars?

Bova pays particular attention to description of Mars. What it would be like to fly over Mars. The smell of the dust. The look. Sunset. Mist. The descriptions, science and characters are thorougly convincing from start to finish.

I really only have one criticism of the book and that is that it leaves so much unfinished. Its nice to have a few questions left unanswered, but here we have entire dangling plotlines. I can’t help but feel that Bova is lining up a sequel.

Still, should be a good read if there is one.

Eoghann Irving is amongst other things the creator and Editor of Solar Flare. He has a life long interest in all forms of science fiction and fantasy and a pressing need to share this interest with anyone who will listen. Find out more at his personal website eoghann.com..

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