The Mercy of Gods is a sci-fi novel by James S. A. Corey. This is the first book in The Captive’s War, a new series from the author (really two authors writing under a shared pen name) of the fantastic The Expanse series. It was first published in August 2024 by Orbit. This review is intended to be free of spoilers, but none of us are perfect. Consider yourself warned! A review copy was provided by the publisher. There are affiliate links at the end of this review.
Blurb:
The Carryx – part empire, part hive – has waged wars of conquest for centuries, destroying or enslaving species across the galaxy in its conflict with an ancient and deathless enemy.
When they descend on the isolated world of Anjiin, the human population is abased, slaughtered and put in chains. The best and brightest are abducted, taken to the Carryx world-palace to join prisoners from a thousand other species.
Dafyd Alkhor, assistant to a prestigious scientist, is captured along with his team. Even he doesn’t suspect that his peculiar insight and skills will be the key to seeing past their captors ‘ terrifying agenda.
Swept up in a conflict beyond his control and vaster than his imagination, Dafyd is poised to become humanity’s champion – and its betrayer.
This is where his story begins.
Review:
If, like me, you’re a fan of The Expanse series, then The Mercy of Gods is a novel that will captivate your imagination and keep you on the edge of your seat. Just like The Expanse, this book offers a rich tapestry of interstellar politics, complex characters, and high-stakes adventure that makes for an unforgettable reading experience.
The story is set in a meticulously crafted universe where humanity has expanded across the stars. The attention to detail in world-building is reminiscent of James S.A. Corey’s prior work, with intricate political systems, diverse cultures, and realistic technological advancements. I particularly loved the academic politics of the early section of the novel. The backdrop of interstellar colonisation and the tension between different factions provides a compelling setting that draws you in from the first page.
The characters in The Mercy of Gods are deeply complex and relatable, much like the crew of The Expanse’s Rocinante. Each character has their own motivations, flaws, and growth arcs that make them feel incredibly real. Tonner Freis, the renowned scientist, leads the research team, embodying the struggle to maintain humanity and purpose in alien captivity. Else Yannin, his intelligent and resourceful second-in-command and girlfriend, adds depth with her complex relationships. Dafyd Alkhor, the young and eager research assistant, brings a sense of growth and self-discovery to the story as he navigates the challenges of captivity and rebellion. Lastly, Jessyn Kaul might be my favourite character. I enjoyed her battle with mental health issues, adding emotional depth and highlighting the human capacity for resilience and adaptation. I also love her relationship with her twin.
Together, these characters create a dynamic and engaging cast, driving the story forward and making The Mercy of Gods a compelling read for fans of character-driven science fiction. Their individual journeys and interactions are central to the narrative, providing a rich and immersive experience.
The plot is a masterful blend of mystery, action, and political intrigue. The pacing (often the downfall of an otherwise-excellent novel for me) is perfect, with just the right balance of tension and resolution to keep you hooked. The twists and turns are well-executed and often surprising, making for a thrilling read that will leave you eagerly turning the pages.
The novel explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice in a way that resonates deeply. It delves into the moral complexities of power and the impact of decisions on a grand scale. These themes add depth to the story and provoke thought long after you’ve finished the book.
The writing is sharp, evocative, and immersive. The author’s ability to create vivid imagery and convey emotion through prose is impressive, as is their abilty to convey alien thought and consciousness as being fundamentally different to our own human experience. The dialogue is natural and engaging, capturing the unique voices of each character.
The Mercy of Gods is a must-read for fans of The Expanse, and for the fans of sci-fi in general. It offers the blend of epic storytelling, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes that we have come to expect from these authors, and which make for a truly satisfying read.
Rating: 5/5
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