Books matching: first contact scenario
33 result(s)
- #1
Save:In the book "The Caphenon" by Fletcher DeLancey, the story unfolds on the planet Alsea which is under threat of annihilation by a malevolent invading force. The Alseans, who possess the unique ability of traveling through inner space of the heart and mind, must form an alliance with the Gaians to save their world. The plot follows the Alsean leader, Lancer Andira Tal, and the Caphenon's Captain Ekatya Serrado as they navigate political forces, loyalty, and courage in a battle for survival. The book is described as a tightly woven tale with powerful emotional impacts, intricate world-building, and a blend of combat action, romance, humor, and political intrigue.
The narrative style of Fletcher DeLancey in "The Caphenon" is praised for its well-thought-out elements, compelling characters, and compelling relationships. The story offers a mix of challenges, relationships, and ultimate battles, leading to a satisfying and emotional journey for the core characters. The book is commended for its feminist representation with strong and well-developed female leads, engaging love stories, and a refreshing departure from male-dominated science fiction narratives.
Bilseng Lokon was filling his cup at theshannel dispenser when the alarm went off. It had been so longsince his initial training that at first he didn’t recognize thesound, but when it finally registe... - #2
Save:'The Terrans' in the series 'First Salik War' by author Jean Johnson is a first contact science fiction story set 300 years before another series by the same author. It follows the Human Terran race as they encounter a vile alien enemy, the Salik, and a previously unknown branch of humanity, the V'Dan. The story revolves around Jacaranda 'Jackie', a Psi soldier appointed as an Ambassador to make First Contact with alien life forms, and her encounter with the V'Dan captain Li'eth. The plot involves intricate world-building, politics, and the development of relationships between different races, while exploring themes of leadership, psychic abilities, and the challenges of diplomacy in a universe filled with diverse characters and alliances.
The writing style of 'The Terrans' is described as a mix of heavy world-building, detailed science explanations, and rich character development. The narrative focuses on the relationship between two races and their alliances, with a significant emphasis on politics and history. delves into the complexities of first contact, exploring the interactions between humans and alien races, the challenges faced by the characters, and the evolving dynamics as they navigate through a universe filled with conflicts, alliances, and discoveries.
Jackie could see a blurred version of herself in the semipolished steel doors of the elevator car. Gray military uniform, black and blue stripes on the sleeves and pant legs. Black for the Space Force... - #3
Save:'The Fountains of Paradise' by Arthur C. Clarke is a science fiction novel that follows the story of engineer Vannevar Morgan's ambitious quest to build a space elevator on Earth. Set against the backdrop of overcoming challenges, including conflicts with a group of monks residing on the mountain crucial for the elevator, the book intricately explores the themes of tradition versus progress and human accomplishment through scientific innovation. The writing style is described as technical and detail-oriented, focusing on the science and engineering aspects of the space elevator project while blending in elements of history and human foibles.
The crown grew heavier with each passing year. When the Venerable Bodhidharma Mahanayake Thero had—so reluctantly—first placed it upon his head, Prince Kalidasa was surprised by its lightness. Now, tw... - #4
Save:'Code of the Lifemaker' by James P. Hogan is an intriguing science fiction novel that delves into the evolution of a machine race on Saturn's moon Titan. The story sets up a first contact situation between humanity and these evolved robots, exploring themes of science versus mysticism. The narrative follows the struggles of the robotic society as they navigate their own equivalent of the stone age while facing an oppressive religious doctrine. Meanwhile, amongst the humans, hardened scientists clash with a talented con artist posing as a psychic, leading to an interesting and complex storyline with multiple perspectives.
The writing style of 'Code of the Lifemaker' combines elements of hard science fiction with humor and rich character development. presents a unique premise of evolved artificial life forms and explores the interactions between humans and these sentient robots. With a focus on themes like the nature of life and sentience, the novel weaves together a compelling narrative that challenges readers to reflect on science, culture, and the essence of being.
Karl Zambendorf stood gazing down overSeventh Avenue from the window of his penthouse suite in the NewYork Hilton. He was a tall man in his early fifties, a little onthe portly side but with an erect ... - #5
Save:In "Chindi" by Jack McDevitt, we follow Priscilla Hutchins, known as Hutch, on her final mission as a pilot for the Science Academy. She is tasked with ferrying members of the Contact Society on a ship commissioned by the Academy to investigate a mysterious signal near a neutron star. As the crew explores a network of stealth satellites and makes first contact with a new alien species, they uncover ancient ruins and face unexpected challenges. McDevitt's writing style blends hard science with archaeology, creating a thrilling narrative that keeps readers engaged with a mix of suspense, discovery, and character development.
The novel delves into themes of alien civilizations, first contact, and the age-old question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. Through Hutch's adventures and interactions with her passengers, McDevitt weaves a tale of exploration, mystery, and danger. The plot unfolds with a mix of action, scientific exploration, and personal relationships, making "Chindi" a compelling read for fans of science fiction and space adventure.
PRISCILLA HUTCHINS WAS not a woman to be swept easily off her feet, but she came very close to developing a terminal passion for Preacher Brawley during the Proteus fiasco. Not because of his good loo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Academy ) - #6
Save:"Anomaly" by Peter Cawdron is a science fiction novel that follows the story of an underachieving teacher, David Teller, who unexpectedly finds himself involved in investigating an alien anomaly outside the United Nations in New York City. The book explores themes of first contact, human response to the unknown, and the implications of encountering extraterrestrial life. The writing style is described as thought-provoking, innovative, and realistic, with a focus on character development and building depth within the story.
The plot of "Anomaly" is praised for its fresh take on the first contact scenario, introducing likable characters and blending elements of science, philosophy, and exploration. The story is noted for its ability to engage readers, challenge assumptions about alien encounters, and keep them immersed in a plausible and intriguing narrative. The book is commended for its pacing, depth, and the author's dedication to revising and improving the story based on feedback, ultimately creating a satisfying and thought-provoking reading experience.
Shortly after lunch on Friday, cracks appeared in the road. Officer Davies had been directing traffic on the corner of 1 Avenue and East 45 in Manhattan since mid-morning after the traffic lights had ... - #7
Save:Eater by Gregory Benford is a hard science fiction novel that explores a first contact scenario with a sentient alien construct within a black hole, named Eater. The story follows Benjamin Knowlton and a team of scientists as they try to decipher Eater's intentions and the potential threat it poses to Earth. The book delves into the detailed science behind the alien entity and the psychological aspects of interacting with a vastly intelligent being, all while navigating political intrigue and the existential risk Eater presents.
Benjamin stared at the graph. In the middle of the page, a sharp peak poked up to a high level, then fell slowly to his right. He glanced at the bottom axis, showing time, and said, “So it died away i... - #8
Save:The Fresco by Sheri S. Tepper is a science fiction novel that delves into themes of first contact, interstellar politics, and societal values. The story follows a self-educated middle-aged woman named Benita who is chosen by aliens to represent humanity. As she navigates her sometimes abusive marriage and interacts with the alien race, both she and the human race undergo growth and transformation. Tepper explores the origins of culture, moral behavior, and the impact of societal values on history and art in a thought-provoking manner.
Along the Oregon coast an arm of the Pacific shushes softly against rocky shores. Above the waves, dripping silver in the moonlight, old trees, giant trees, few now, thrust their heads among low cloud... - #9
Save:"Sacrifice of Fools" by Ian McDonald is a science fiction murder mystery set in a future Belfast where aliens, known as the Shian, have settled. The story follows Andy Gillespie, a former criminal turned mediator between humans and aliens, as he investigates a murder at the Shian Welcome Center. The book explores themes of cultural clashes, ethnic tension, and the dark side of assimilation as the Shian try to adapt to human society.
McDonald's writing style is characterized by intricate world-building, complex characters, and a blend of science fiction elements with real-world issues. He delves into the political landscape of Northern Ireland, the dynamics between different cultures, and the psychological impact of the interactions between humans and aliens in a fast-paced and engaging narrative.
HE KNOWS IT’LL BE bad because they’ve stolen him a Ford. Nothing good, not ever, about Fords. Cold, hard to start, drive too fast: just like his life. Skidoo’s first steal: a ’96 Mondeo. Anyone can ta... - #10
Save:'Mother of Demons' by Eric Flint is a science fiction novel that explores a first contact situation between humans and alien beings on an alien planet. The story delves into the challenges faced by a small group of humans who crash-land on the planet and must navigate the complex social structures of the native alien clans and tribes. The book is praised for its detailed exploration of the alien culture, the interactions between humans and aliens, and its thought-provoking commentary on historical trends and societal consequences.
The narrative style of 'Mother of Demons' alternates between the perspectives of human and alien characters, providing a multi-faceted view of the unfolding events on the alien planet. The writing is emotive and captures the passions and feelings of the characters, particularly focusing on themes of prejudice, friendship, loyalty, military strategies, and history. Despite some dry parts that may not appeal to all readers, the book is lauded for its depth, character development, and the intriguing portrayal of a unique first contact scenario.
As a young warrior, Nukurren had heard the demons come. She still remembered the enormous sound that ripped through the sky above Shakutulubac, capital of the Ansha Prevalate. She herself had seen not...
