Cryoburn by Lois McMaster Bujold
ISBN: 978-1-4391-3394-1 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 978-1-4516-0162-6 (ARC; copy reviewed)
Read the Book Rating Scale.
Realism: 8. Bujold creates a world very similar to our own, though with a few technological advances like hovercrafts and a large cryogenics industry. Planet Kibou’s customs resembles that of their Japanese ancestors, which is easy for anyone familiar with Japanese honorifics to figure out. The world is put together well, but is too recognizable for my taste. Bujold’s characters are lively and distinct, and Miles Vorkosigan’s antics definitely carry the story. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Jin and Mina (I’m such a sucker for kids).
Enjoyment: 7. The writing is well. Bujold doesn’t bog the reader down with descriptions, which kept the story flowing at a consistent pace. The switching of character POV wasn’t jarring, but was executed smoothly. The opening descriptions, when Miles is experiencing drug-induced hallucinations, has some of the most immersive writing in the book. Unfortunately there isn’t more of it.
Entertainment: 8. The book sucks you in from page one. Following Miles and crew as they dig up evidence of corporate corruption, political schemes, medical malpractice, and abduction is a whirlwind ride. There isn’t as many fight scenes as I normally like, but Bujold is able to create tension and action through dialogue and covert operations. The “creature” the group acquires towards the end provides some the most hilarious parts of the book.
Impact: 5. Not really much to say here. It is a solid, entertaining title. Although the idea of freezing one’s body is a controversial procedure nowadays, in the world of Cryoburn it is a routine part of life–if one can afford it. There are some instances where politics could have been inserted into the text, but Bujold avoids doing so and stays focused on the story. Which is fair enough; I picked up this book to be entertained, not lectured.
Score: 28/40
This is a solid read. It is my first book of the Miles Vorkosigan series, and I didn’t feel lost at all while reading it. There are some references to past exploits, but they aren’t necessary to know in order to follow, and enjoy, the story. An entertaining title, with a few twists thrown here and there. I prefer more danger and suspense; even when things didn’t go right for Miles and gang, I never got the feeling that things would go terribly wrong or that they wouldn’t achieve their goals.
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