Review by M. Kenyon Charboneaux,
Editor of Eros et Thanatos; author of Cri du Couer, Blood Kiss, 8 City Tales
I don't read what passes for science fiction these days - just because you set a story on another planet or in the future, it's not science fiction unless it contains a solid base of hard science. And Nelder delivers. Not just the science, but a fascinating story, complex and likable characters and of course, his trademark original thinking and clear, pristine writing.
Exit was so good I finished it in an afternoon. Lugged it to the doctor's office even, so I could keep reading it, in the car coming and going, read it in the waiting room, read it in those little rooms they put you in before uttering the lie that "The doctor will be right with you."
When it comes to hard science, Nelder knows his stuff. When it comes to writing, he REALLY knows his stuff! Kallandra is a wonderful role model for women, though I don't suppose he thought of her that way. I didn't until I had to sit down and do this review.
The novel is too entertaining to think things like that while reading it, those thinking brain cells only kick in when you step aside from the book and start thinking about it that such thoughts begin to emerge.
And you will keep thinking about it, long after you finished it. It's a keeper. It's a "can't put it down" story of both mysterious spheres on Earth and a Mars Mission, to boot. Exit is a well-balanced, well-written, fast-paced adrenalin rush for both you and the characters. I'm not about to give out any spoilers here, but I will say that Time is one of my fascinations and reading Exit, Nelder made me think about our notions of time and space, of life in spacecrafts.
And ah, those spheres.
I have only one question : Nelder, How did you manage to destroy Glastonbury Tor without ending up, like Rushdie, with a price on your head? Well, don't worry. Her Majesty will be knighting you after she reads this book, just like she did Rushdie.
It's THAT good. That powerful and entertaining of a story with humor blended in a perfect balance with adrenalin, love with sex and an all 'round fascinating, original story.
All I really needed to say was : Nelder, you've done it again and even better than last time. But what author wants a one line review, eh? Bravo, Nelder!
Click on image to buy