"The Prodigal Sun" was probably one of the most satisfying books I've read in a long time. Filled with action, adventure, intriguing ideas, mystery and suspense, this book is a definite page turner, reading much like a well made action-thriller movie. Set in a far away future, human kind has colonised vast areas of the galaxy. The protagonist Morgan Roach - a military intelligence officer - is thrust into a situation with consequences reaching far beyond anything she imagined. At first, I was apprehensive about learning a whole new universe and the unique interpretations of a futuristic human race. However, my fears were quickly quashed as the authors did a great job of introducing the vast universe - bringing forward bits of information and history on an as required basis. In addition to the governing bodies and a variety of alien species, the relevant history and cultures are slowly and subtly incorporated into the bulk of the story. The characters are very interesting and despite their alien origins, they feel very real and very "human". The authors made an effort to explore their different personal histories giving them an identity and thereby providing a base for readers to actually relate to them and end up caring for the individual. The book is well written with just the right about of action, intrigue, suspense intertwined with a few twists and mystery to keep you at the edge of your seat. Whilst the majority of the book is written in the perspective of the protagonist - Morgan, at various points and chapters the perspective changes into someone else completely different, giving some variety and adding more layers of complexity. Even though the book is the first in a trilogy - to be followed by "The Dying Light", I felt completely satisfied at the conclusion with much of the questions answered and the left overs clearly intended to be reviewed in the sequels. The only potential negative I can find is that The Prodigal Sun is relatively heavy on science fiction and space themes. Therefore, it probably requires a seasoned Sci Fi lover or at least a reader well versed in space and Sci Fi terminology and concepts of fully appreciate the environment and themes.I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series. I would very much highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Sci Fi adventure book.
