The Expanse

I read Leviathan Wakes in two parts, more or less. I borrowed it from Josh a few years ago and read the first 100 pages in a couple days. I was enthralled by the worldbuilding. Space opera is not a genre I've spent any real time with (unless you count BSG), so it was partially the newness. One thing led to another and I took a break for almost a year, then came back to it and finished with fervor. 

I came to appreciate the chapters switching off perspectives and how our two perspective characters were dragged closer together over time, then spent much of the second half of the novel in various forms of cahoots. The plot initially seemed fresh and intriguing, but ultimately was a little played out. Still, it has clearly laid the groundwork for a series that some will put near the top of their space opera all-time lists already. I'm sure the SyFy/Amazon series helps. 

I think a somewhat pulpy, noir approach was a great call. Sci-Fi writers have a propensity to go too grandiose. I know I do. Even though space is (infinitely) massive, it's the small details that make the difference. The effects of physics on the bodies of Belters, the methods of getting drunk on tequila on a spaceship, the hallways of cities and spaceports--these details were given in that often straightforward noir style, and really worked for me. 

I don't know what brought The Expanse up in my mind this morning, but maybe I'll jump into book 2 as soon as I finish my current reading project. I need a new show to watch anyway. 

It also makes me think that I'd love to write my own space opera someday. I've had plenty of ideas. Since it seems like I'm so interested in class, the Downton Abbey in space thing is still buzzing in the background. I'll need to read Asimov, LeGuin, Robinson, and a few others to really do my due diligence.