Review of First Ascent (Ascending Carbon Series Book 1) by Douglas Phillips
From the moment I laid eyes on the cover of First Ascent, I felt a gravitational pull—much like the one that brings us back to Earth. Douglas Phillips, an author I’ve admired for his brilliant blend of science and storytelling, has once again woven a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. With themes of reality, misinformation, and the looming specter of ecological disaster, this book promises an adventure that is both exhilarating and relevant.
At its heart, First Ascent revolves around Sahalie Spark, a sharp-witted host of the show Don’t Believe It!, who specializes in uncovering hoaxes and conspiracy theories. Phillips skillfully uses her platform to explore the murky waters of truth and betrayal when an unauthorized oil rig appears off the coast of Ecuador, shrouded in fog and mystery. As Sahalie dives deeper into the story—prompted by a Korean billionaire offering exclusive access—she discovers that the oil rig is no ordinary platform but a tether into space. Instantly, I found myself captivated by this idea, which feels both far-fetched and oddly plausible, evoking thoughts of societal reliance on science and technology amid a backdrop of climate change.
The pacing of this novel is one of its significant strengths. Phillips juggles scientific concepts with an engaging narrative that doesn’t leave readers dangling. For a story rooted in hard science, it remains accessible. The author expertly balances moments of tension and introspection, often leaving me breathless with the characters’ climbing escapades. One particularly gripping sequence had my heart racing as Sahalie faced danger higher up in the tether, a testament to Phillips’ ability to create tension while also drawing the reader into the moral quandaries that accompany technological advancements.
What stood out most were the vibrant characters. Sahalie is relatable and admirable, serving as a mirror to our skepticism and curiosity. As I read her journey, I felt a connection, rooting for her to unravel the truth while grappling with the broader implications of her discoveries. The narrative feels alive with voices—the hope and desperation of a future Earth battling the debris catastrophe in our skies resonate deeply.
One quote that struck me was when Sahalie muses, “Sometimes the biggest lies come disguised as the shiniest truths.” I can’t help but reflect on how relevant this is in today’s information glut, and Phillips captures that sentiment with precision.
As I reached the closing pages, I felt a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. First Ascent is not just another sci-fi thrill ride; it’s a poignant commentary on our current trajectory as a society. For both science fiction aficionados and casual readers, this novel offers an imaginative exploration of potential futures—a space elevator to heights unfathomed but grounded in realism.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly encourage anyone curious about the intersections of technology, ecology, and human bravery to pick up First Ascent. It is the perfect read for those eager to reflect on the challenges and wonders awaiting us in the not-so-distant future. My experience with this book was not just a reading pleasure; it was an invitation to ponder—for that, I am grateful to Douglas Phillips. I sincerely can’t wait for the next installment!
You can find First Ascent (Ascending Carbon Series Book 1) here >>