I had the pleasure of reading T.O. Burnett’s first two books in the Sapien series—Dawn of Oblivion and Days of Deception. I’m not particularly a sci-fi fan, but Burnett’s Sapien series has won me over. He’s an amazing wordsmith who creates phrases that give you pause in a good way. While reading his work, I oftentimes stop and ask myself, “How did he come up with that? That was so clever!” His writing is amazingly descriptive and it pulls you into the story right away. His use of metaphors is superb and never overdone. Reading Burnett’s book is more than just a read, it’s a literary action-packed surreal adventure that takes place in a world that Burnett has carefully created down to every detail. The world he has made seems so real you have fantasies about living there. The battles in this book are epic and will make your head spin. Burnett is a master of detail. You feel every blow and cut!
In Then There was Darkness, The Sapien Solar System is at risk of being taken over by numerous Madmen. Burnett introduces several new characters all with distinct qualities and voices. One of my favorites is “Fat Rodney.” There is never a dull moment as different factions battle one another. The book kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering who I could trust, who was lying. At every turn there was a twist in just the right place. Burnett brings it with this novel. Not only is it brimming with action, there’s a bit of romance and scenarios that tug at your heart, like the group of orphans that Mulati, the Captain of the Starship Whisper, puts his life on the line to protect.
I was pleased to see Mulati and the other members of the Whisper crew return to this installment. In my humble opinion, they are the cornerstone of the series, and I’ve grown to love the group which also includes, Sampa Yambasu, Mulati’s right hand woman and now girlfriend. She’s strong, fearless, and a force to be reckoned with. Bjorn Mathison and Corto Canales. In this installment there are others who join the crew of the Whisper in the battle to save the day, including two of the older orphans. Watching them interact with Mulati and seeing their growth was a delight. I don’t want to include any spoilers, but a few of the major players in the other two installments will come to their ends in such dramatic fashions you’ll be more than stunned. You will have to get the book to see who they are and to see what happens in the battle for the Sapien Solar System.
A must read. Bravo T.O. Burnett!