Review of Marathon: The Complete Series (Books 1-9)
I have to admit, the eye-catching premise of Marathon: The Complete Series by Daniel Young grabbed my attention loud and clear. A ragtag crew aboard a cobbled-together ship navigating the perils of space while grappling with their own humanity? Count me in! Sci-fi can be such a vast universe, and as I embarked on this 1,339-page journey, I wasn’t just ready to explore the cosmos; I was eager to see how the author could intertwine humor, action, and human (or rather, alien) complexity.
From the get-go, Young’s protagonist, Adam Eckhart, serves as a perfect entry point into this chaotic world. As captain of the Marathon, Eckhart’s grappling with the enduring question of what it means to be human—an endeavor that becomes increasingly complicated when a couple of wounded humans unexpectedly cross his path. “Big mistake,” he reflects, and indeed, the ensuing chaos illustrates that doing the right thing often brings unintended consequences. It was a plot twist that kept me glued to the pages, as I felt the mental gears grinding each time a new complication arose.
One of the most splendid aspects of Marathon is its character development. With a diverse cast of aliens and androids, Young does not shy away from exploring their distinct personalities and the nuances that come with their interactions. There’s a fascinating layer of camaraderie that simmers just underneath the surface, a theme I found particularly compelling in moments of high tension—like when battles unfold or friendships are tested. As one reviewer said, “the characters are engaging and relatable,” and I couldn’t agree more. Even the most alien of characters evoke empathy as they navigate their own battles and decisions.
Young’s writing style struck me as refreshingly straightforward. The pacing kept the action fast and thrilling, reminiscent of the old pulp sci-fi tales. While some might call the plot improbable, I found this liberating; it allowed for a continuous flow of surprises and opportunities for Eckhart’s band to outrun danger in a high-stakes world that defies the laws of physics. The series may not satisfy hard sci-fi purists, but it’s an exhilarating rollercoaster ride for those looking to be entertained.
There were moments in the story that stood out to me, such as characters’ reflections on sacrifice and friendship, which echoed themes of our own lives. A quote from one review particularly resonated: “I enjoyed every bit of the adventures from one location to the next.” That sense of adventure is infectious, and I found myself cherishing each twist and turn through the pages.
Overall, I’d highly recommend Marathon: The Complete Series to anyone who appreciates sci-fi blended with action, humor, and unforeseen revelations. Whether you’re a longtime space opera aficionado or just curious to dip your toes into the genre, Young’s series offers a delightful escape into a world where the line between loyalty and self-preservation blurs. It’s a refreshing read that ultimately sparked in me the joy of exploration—both within the universe and within characters striving to define their humanity amidst chaos.
You can find Marathon: The Complete Series (Books 1-9) (Complete Series Box Sets) here >>