The Forge of God by Greg Bear is a science fiction novel that explores the end of the world scenario caused by an alien threat. The book follows the central questions of whether the aliens are good or bad, and if humanity can survive. The plot is described as starting with a mystery but taking a dark turn, focusing on human psychology and reactions to terrible events. The story moves at a slow pace initially but picks up midway, leading to a climactic ending that is both heart-wrenching and vividly detailed.

The book is praised for its interesting science fiction elements, especially the portrayal of alien invasion and the end of the world. It is noted for keeping readers engaged with a thrilling narrative that includes multiple perspectives on the impending destruction of Earth. Despite some criticism for certain aspects like character development, the book is recommended for its unique take on alien invasion and the thought-provoking exploration of human reactions to existential threats.

Characters:

The characters, while relatable in their dilemmas, are often critiqued for lack of depth and diversity, largely focusing on male perspectives.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is a mix of engaging narrative and scientific exposition, though some have noted excessive focus on character descriptions.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows Earth's catastrophic encounter with alien forces, intertwining themes of foreboding and human responses to an impending apocalypse.

Setting:

Set in a near-future Earth undergoing surreal transformations due to alien activity, the backdrop varies between terrestrial locations and an impending global crisis.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, with a slow start that transforms into a more gripping second act, yet some readers suggest it could have been tighter.

Arthur Gordon stood in the darkness by the bank of the Rogue River, having walked a dozen yards away from his house and family and guests, momentarily weary of company. He stood six feet two inches in...

Notes:

The novel centers around the end of the world and is filled with epic destruction scenarios.

An alien arrives in Death Valley to warn humanity of impending doom.

The story mixes elements of sci-fi and mystery as mysteries unravel throughout the narrative.

A significant theme is humanity's reaction to its own insignificance in the universe.

The book features a mix of grounded scientific speculation and imaginative storytelling.

Characters deal with both external threats from aliens and internal political and emotional conflicts.

The President in the story interprets the alien warning through a theological lens, suggesting biblical implications.

There are two alien factions in the story, making the question of who to trust complex for the characters.

The portrayal of Earth's destruction is highly emotional and vividly described, capturing the beauty of the planet as it's dismantled.

The novel is like a prequel to its sequel, Anvil of Stars, exploring consequences of the Earth's demise.

Characters are portrayed with flaws, capturing realistic human responses to apocalyptic scenarios.

The narrative challenges the notion of good and bad aliens, introducing moral ambiguity in extraterrestrial contact.

An emphasis on geological phenomena, such as sudden mountain appearances, plays a key role in the plot.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book features medium content warnings for themes of destruction, death, and alien invasion.

From The Publisher:

The Forge of God by Greg Bear

On September 28th, a geologist working in Death valley finds a mysterious new cinder cone in very well-mapped area.

On October 1st, the government of Australia announces the discovery of an enormous granite mountain. Like the cinder cone, it wasn't there six months ago....

Something is happening to Planet Earth, and the truth is too terrifying to consider....

Ratings (4)

Loved It (1)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (1)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (14):

Read It (4)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (7)
Not Interested (2)

What can you read after
The Forge of God?

See the list (100 books)

About the Author:

Greg Bear sold his first short story, at the age of fifteen, to Robert Lowndes's Famous Science Fiction. Since then, he has written some twenty novels, including Eon, Slant, and Moving Mars. A winner of the Hugo and Nebula Awards, Bear is married to Astrid Anderson, and they, and their two children, live near Seattle, Washington.

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

The Forge of God

Greg Bear

Book 1 in the series:Forge of God