From Goodreads: Twenty-fifth century Drayling, and Britain as a whole, has benefited greatly from advances in technology and medical science, and life in the Graves’ household, and in those of their friends and colleagues, is secure, clear and very content. The desire and need for clarity, truth and order has motivated communities to live in harmony, abandoning any potentially controversial aspects or ways of life, including all religions, in favor of a modern civilized society that upholds order, simplicity, honesty, love and honor as its ideals. However, the death of the Premier brings a significant shift in approach – which forces a small group of ordinary people to conclude that they have no alternative but to take radical action to protect their way of life.

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Unfortunately, this novel is not my style.  While it is very well written and the story itself is great for those who are interested in world building and/or science fiction, it’s not for me.  I found the beginning of the story to be a bit dry for my tastes as it sets up the background for the society of Drayling, and I don’t particularly enjoy novels that spend so much time explaining the background. Keep in mind that this has nothing to do with Newman’s writing capabilities, but more so with personal preference.  I reacted much in the same way to Tolkien, and though I loved the Lord of the Ring movies, the writing was a bit heavy for me.  I think, as I’ve grown older, I’ve begun to enjoy science fiction less and less, which again, is no reflection of Newman. The story does begin to move away from the world building and background information as it progresses and I really believe that many readers who like Tolkien and other authors of that caliber will enjoy this novel—it’s just not for me.  Two stars.  

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.