Title: Shadow of the Hegemon
Author: Orson Scott Card
First published December 10, 2000
451 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780812565959 (ISBN10: 0812565959)
Rating: 3.96
Overview
The war rages on in the Ichidian universe, and the Sentella organization fights to bring down the oppressive League. Hauk, one of the five founding members of Sentella, is a fierce Andarion warrior who will stop at nothing to protect his brethren.
But when he’s targeted by the League’s top assassin, Sumi Antaxas, he finds himself facing his toughest challenge yet.
Sumi is the best of the best, never failing a mission. But when she’s assigned to take down Hauk, she realizes that he’s not just another target.
As she pursues him, she discovers a secret that could destroy not only Hauk, but the entire Sentella organization.
With enemies closing in on all sides, Sumi and Hauk must put their trust in each other to survive. But can a trained killer and a warrior who fears nothing learn to work together?
The fate of the universe rests in their hands, and they must decide whether to fight each other or join forces to defeat their common enemy.
About the Author
Orson Scott Card has authored several successful novels that have captured the imagination of both adults and young readers. Notably, his science fiction novels, including Ender’s Game, Ender’s Shadow, and Speaker for the Dead, have found their way into schools across the country.
In addition to science fiction, Card also writes contemporary fantasy novels such as Magic Street, Enchantment, and Lost Boys, and biblical novels like Stone Tables and Rachel and Leah. He is also known for his American frontier fantasy series, The Tales of Alvin Maker.
Card’s early life was spent in Washington, California, Arizona, and Utah, and he later embarked on a mission for the LDS Church in Brazil during the early 1970s. When he isn’t writing, he teaches classes and workshops and directs plays.
Recently, he has taken on a new role as a professor of writing and literature at Southern Virginia University.
Card shares his life with his wife, Kristine Allen Card, and their youngest child, Zina Margaret, in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Editoral Review
Orson Scott Card, the acclaimed author known for his impressive array of sci-fi and fantasy novels, has once again captured readers imaginations with Shadow of the Hegemon. As a continuation of the Enders Game series, the book follows the aftermath of the Bugger Wars and the political tensions that ensue on Earth.
Set in an alternate future, where children are trained as military strategists from a young age, Shadow of the Hegemon centers around political intrigue and espionage. As the story unfolds, the focus shifts to the battle between the students of the Battle School and the countries vying for power.
The novel is littered with complex characters, with Peter Wiggin – Enders brother – taking on a prominent role in the narrative. With Shadow of the Hegemon, Card delves into the dangers of manipulation, particularly when it comes to politics.
The plot twists and turns as characters navigate sticky situations, and Card takes readers on an unforgettable journey through an unpredictable world where the stakes are high. What sets Card apart is his ability to weave together themes of politics, war, and coming-of-age stories with a fantastical twist.
Shadow of the Hegemon is no exception, as the author utilizes his skillful storytelling abilities to create a world filled with relatable characters and plotlines. Despite its sci-fi setting, the book manages to stay grounded in reality, showing a poignant reflection of the politics and power clashes that happen in our world today.
One of the strengths of Shadow of the Hegemon is Cards ability to create characters with depth and complexity. Although Peter is often painted as a villain, the author takes the time to delve into his motivations, ultimately making him a more sympathetic character.
Additionally, the action-packed pacing keeps readers invested from beginning to end. However, the book does suffer from some shortcomings.
The plot can feel convoluted at times, and some sections may drag on a little too long for some readers. Also, while the characters are intriguing, some of their decisions can feel a bit contrived in service of the plot.
That being said, Shadow of the Hegemon is still a must-read for fans of sci-fi and fantasy alike. Its themes of politics and manipulation are especially relevant in current times, providing interesting commentary on our current climate.
The book is well-written and exciting, with a captivating plot and characters that will keep readers hooked. Overall, its an enjoyable addition to the Enders Game series.
Rating: 3.5/5 stars. While the book has its flaws, its still a well-crafted and thought-provoking read for fans of the genre.
