3 out of 4 stars
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Set around 200 years, Synthesis: Weave by Dean Saunders-Stowe follows Sebastian Thorsson, a security programmer for Earth Security on the Terminae station. Sebastien wishes for a job with excitement so when he is offered the esteemed job of a Special Operations agent by agent Gladrin he jumps at the chance. With the help of his friend Aryx, an ex-marine, Sebastian is given the objective to analyse a new piece of technology stolen from the terrorists. However, after an explosion on the Terminae station, it is down to Sebastian and Aryx to find the culprit. Could the terrorist group be linked to the explosion? The understanding of the technology might be the key to finding the perpetrator. The investigation will take them on a journey of discovery, where ancient secrets will soon be uncovered.
It really is good when you get the chance to read a Sci-Fi book where the author really has done their research and come up with logical ideas of the possible future. An example of this in the book is mycobacon; the reasoning being that there are rarely kept for food now due to the space they take up. I loved the attention to detail given to Aryx’s disability. Aryx has lost his legs from below the knee whilst serving in the marines leading to a parasitic infection which has weakened his immune system meaning he can’t have clones or transplants as anti-rejection drugs would kill him. This lack of ‘dumbing down’ the book is both good and bad. Good because if you understand the science it makes the story feel that much more believable and easier to immerse yourself in it. However, there is a draw back. There were times when the science was a little over my head and became overwhelming and drew me out of the story a little especially when talking about ‘superphase’. I think this could have been helped with a few analogies to put what has been said into some sort of perspective.
The characters in the book are very well rounded and developed and the story does not overload you with too many characters either which is great. It gives you more of a feel for the characters. Even though one of the characters has a disability the book doesn’t make a big deal about it. It’s great to see that the character isn’t mollycoddled or given extra sympathy adding a sense of normality to his condition. I loved it. A really positive view towards disability showing it doesn’t hold you back.
Something I found interesting in this book is it actually has a theme of Fantasy running through it. Magic appears and is talked about in the book; even though it is given more of a scientific background. I believe this really gives this story a unique twist.
Overall I would give this book a rating of 3 out of 4 stars. This book was a really good read and the well-paced story really draws you in. The lack of a clear explanation in some things in the book is why I dropped a star. Certain theories needed better explanation or an analogy to put the idea in context to help understanding.
I would recommend this to lovers of the Sci-Fi genre who have a background in science. Due to difficult concepts I would not recommend this for young children.
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Synthesis: Weave
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. It was an enjoyment to read 
