Not really sure where they’re going with this …

This is pretty good sci fi. Fantastic beasts on other planets. Some space battles. Lots of science. Also romance between scientists. Theres a swarm entity that is interesting but also a bit like things you’ve already met in Adrian Tchaikovsky novels, and also a bit like the mimic you meet in Abraham’s Hunter’s Run, which is better than this novel and I wish wasn’t a standalone. I miss the social commentary of the expanse - old school cognitive estrangement - but was prepared to let it go. Possibly it didn’t need to be completely abandoned. I think it might have been good to set this on a world behind a collapsed ring and leave the expanse series and the crew of the Rocinante behind that way.

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Outstanding voice acting and story

It’s so difficult to find quality sci-fi that isn’t derivative or pulpy military trash. Once again S.A. Corey has out done themselves. Great beginning.

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not quite the same magic as the expanse

good ideas, weird implementation.
it's like they wanted to have another go at the fizzle that was Cibola burn / Ilus, but ended up with the same mildly interesting dud.

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Fascinating story, captivating narration

A fascinating read, loved the exploration of human behaviour but also the rich imagination and attention to detail when describing the universe and it's inhabitants. The narrator was compelling, and as engaging as ever.

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Not Expanse II

Topical themes well developed and with a credible crew. I am looking forward to the journey.

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Not finished but already best book this year

Bit of a slow start, but am really enjoying it. Thanks to the authors. looking forward to Amazon's tv adaptation.

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pretty good

decent universe building. I guess in a few years we get another. everything good takes a few. GOT better be amazing.

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The beginnings of something great

Feels like a lot of setup for an epic storyline. Going to be a hard wait between the books.

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This is not the Expanse and that’s a good thing

First up: Jefferson Mays is the voice of the Coreyverse. There is no other.

It took me a while to shed expectations cultivated from nine books of relentlessly evolving plots and players, and the opening to Mercy takes its time. The pre-invasion portion of the story does a decent job of introducing the excellent cast of characters, their concerns and interpersonal dynamics. While purposeful, at times I found my interest wandering through discussions of scientific research politics and personal crushes… then the Carryx arrive.

The Mercy of Gods is less of an adventure than a space opera edition of Mans Search For Meaning. Tough, not exactly uplifting, but nor so crushing that the desire to read on ever wanes. The central plot has its twists and turns, however much of the narrative focus involves characters simply trying to make sense of their place in a universe controlled by a cold, uncaring yet overwhelming force.

The panoply of alien species give the Coreys a chance to stretch their biology-trained legs in a manner that they obviously relish; each new species is clearly drawn for the reader, with ample (though not indulgent) opportunity to speculate on evolutionary paths and their role within the Carryx’s grand scheme. In customary Corey fashion, the story ends on a note that frames it in a wider context, and sets an even grander table for the next instalment, without leaving me feeling shortchanged on the one I just finished. As with the Expanse, I am absolutely here for it.

Next please.

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Great read

This was a thoroughly entertaining read and is clearly setting up an epic series. Looking forward to the next books in the series!

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