The Re-Emergence (The Augment Saga #1), by Alan K. Dell
The Book
Synopsis:
A strange probe from a long-forgotten satellite network appears in the P’hori star system. Its message: a dire warning signalling the return of an ancient mythological evil.
Imperator Da’kora Corasar and the crew of the Qesh’kal are sent to determine the probe’s origin, and find that the satellite is not as they had expected. Corasar trusts the satellite’s data, but not everyone aboard agrees. Tensions rise and loyalties are tested as they track down the source of the signal.
Thrust into conflict, the crew of the Qesh’kal must chase their foe across the galactic arm and save their home from certain destruction.
My Review
The Re-Emergence is a fast-paced sci-fi novella, part of the Augment Saga, written by Alan K. Dell. An intriguing proposal which starts with the discovery of a signal from a long forgotten satellite network, and which leads us to an interesting story around the first-contact theme, with plenty of action scenes.
Imperator Da'kora and the crew of the Qesh'kai are sent to investigate the origin of the signal, discovering that an AI has developed inside the satellite; but not only that, but there seems to prove the return of ancient creatures they deemed as myths. Finding them is not only shocking, but put the Qesh'kai on their limits, engaging in a battle with their ship, while still dealing with the difficult of having to trust Seventeen, the AI that was inside the satellite.
A pretty much self-contained story with fully fleshed characters, really impressive due to the short length; especially Seventeen feels much different from the rest, as a consequence of its lack of flesh and its necessity to be trusted. The crew is brought to their limit, knowing that they might be fighting to prevent the destruction of their homes.
It's worth to notice that the epilogue is really intriguing, foreshadowing a bigger story that comes in the following books, picking your curiosity.
Dell's writing is really competent; action scenes are gripping and well described, transmitting the tension lived by the crew of the Qesh'kai. While a bit arid at points, it suits perfectly the genre.
The Re-Emergence is a great novella, perfect if you like military sci-fi or the first contact themes, spiced with a bit of sentient AIs. Excellent as a self-contained episode, and really enjoyable to read!
Disclaimer: This novella has been read as part of the SFINCS. This review/rating only represents my personal opinion and it might differ with what the team decides.
The Author/s
Alan K. Dell
Alan K. Dell is a British science-fiction author and creative person with far too many hobbies. For his day job he works at the parish administrator for his local church, where he also volunteers as a musician. His hobbies include playing the guitar, illustration, graphic design, photography, astronomy, reading and playing video games. He lives at home in Essex with his wife and two children.