Title: The Explorer
Author: James Smythe
First published December 20, 2012
264 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780062229410 (ISBN10: 0062229419)
Rating: 3.35
Overview
From the acclaimed author of The Testimony comes a heart-stopping science fiction thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. When journalist Cormac Easton is chosen to document the first manned mission into deep space, he knows he’s embarking on the journey of a lifetime.
However, when the crew awakens from hypersleep to find their captain dead, it becomes clear that something is amiss. With no way to return to Earth and the body count rising, Cormac must fight for his own survival and uncover the truth behind the captain’s death before it’s too late.
Gripping, tense, and claustrophobic, The Explorer is a must-read for fans of science fiction and thrillers alike.
Editoral Review
James Smythe’s The Explorer takes readers on a thrilling adventure in space, exploring themes of isolation, desperation, and the human psyche. The British author, known for his science fiction and dystopian novels, published The Explorer in 2012.
The novel follows journalist Cormac Easton, who is chosen to be part of a crew sent on a one-way mission to explore a distant planet. As the crew discovers eerie and unexpected phenomena, Cormac is forced to confront his own demons and the harsh realities of isolation in space.
Smythe’s writing is both vivid and introspective, delving into the inner lives of his characters while building a suspenseful plot. The exploration of mental health and the impact of isolation on the human psyche is particularly captivating, as the crew begins to unravel under the pressure of their mission.
The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, with Smythe expertly building tension and delivering unexpected twists. The use of flashbacks and non-linear storytelling adds depth to the characters and their motivations.
One of the strengths of The Explorer is its ability to connect with current events and societal issues. The themes of isolation and mental health are particularly relevant in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the novel encourages readers to reflect on the importance of human connection and compassion.
However, the novel does have some weaknesses. The world-building is somewhat limited, with little explanation of the setting or the technology being used.
Additionally, some of the characters feel underdeveloped, lacking the complexity of Cormac and his struggles.
Overall, The Explorer is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of science fiction and psychological thrillers. Smythe’s writing is masterful, and the themes of isolation and mental health make the novel particularly relevant in today’s world.
I would give The Explorer a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and recommend it to readers looking for a thrilling and introspective read.
