Not looking for fame or prestige, Zorina Singe has the humble goal of opening a little bar on a space barge where she can live a peaceful, low-key life. Unfortunately, as the Chancellor’s daughter, peace and calm aren’t part of Zorina’s gravity. Thrown into their first mission together, Zorina teams up with the pensive and guarded Varick, a man who literally hides who he is behind a mask. The dependable sidekick and competent med-science officer Colobus rounds out this unlikely and inexperienced team. The team manages to avoid crashing their ship, but the mission is no success. While they escape with their lives, trust among them is forever compromised. Everybody seems to be hiding something, but whose secret has the power to shift the fate of the galaxy? Regardless of the deceptions, in deep space, sometimes you have to take a chance on your team, even if it could cost you your life.
Masterfully plotted and impressive in scope, The Axiom Paradox absolutely embodies speculative fiction told at the speed of light. The cast consists of a wild variety of original species, all with impressive gifts and unusual characteristics. Like any solid sci-fi story, the world, or should I say universe, is thoughtfully conceived with more depth than a single volume can encompass. Each character has a distinct voice, making it a smooth process as new players with their specific problems and politics are introduced. I really enjoy how driven Zorina is to make a life of her own, one that doesn’t depend on her famous last name. But my favorite character is the talented, highly intelligent and often misunderstood Colobus. More than just playing an integral role in the plot, Colobus is the main source of the book’s levity. Filled with intergalactic action sequences and cosmic manipulation, The Axiom Paradox is a bold new story you’re sure to enjoy.
