Singularity Sky

Another book I read recently, this time by Charles Stross. Stross posits a post-Singularity setting, in which humanity has been scattered to the stars by an entity known as the Eschaton, which seems to be from the future. The Eschaton has acted (and continues to act) to preserve its own future existence and, as a result, enforces a very few laws. The most important of these is “Thou shalt not violate causality”. That is, although humanity has the means to travel in time (because it has faster-than-light spaceships), the Eschaton will act to prevent us doing so – on a scale up to and including destroying entire solar systems.

Singularity Sky by Charles Stross

The novel itself concerns a much smaller stage – an encounter between two radically different cultures. Rochard’s World is ruled by a culture that rejects advanced technology, relying in human intelligence and abilities. It is visited by the Festival, a post-human culture that travels the stars in search of entertainment. Through this clash, we follow two people, working for two different government agencies to push two different agendas. They must deal with war and prevent fools from taking actions that would bring the wrath of the Eschaton down on them and anyone within tens of light years. In general, a right good read. I’m dubious about the Singularity but Stross uses it well. The story gets a bit confusing in a few places but generally works. Worth reading, and I will try another of his books soon.

Paperback: 400 Pages
Publisher: Orbit (03 February 2005)
ISBN: 1841493341
My Rating: Rating: 4-0 Buy from Amazon