Haze

I can only echo what several others have already written -- this is a very disappointing book by Modesitt, a normally top-notch author. Character and world development are far below par for the author, the plot is utterly predictable and contains no new ideas, and the protagonist is humorless and boring. Modesitt, who frequently presents interesting and thoughtful philosohical ideas in his novels, fails to raise anything new or thought-provoking in 'Haze' at all. This book is so...dull...I wonder if it was just thrown together to meet a contractual obligation rather than the demands of the author's imagination. 'Haze' simply isn't a story that *had* to be written. Instead of wasting your time on 'Haze', read the first novel of his new 'Imager' series -- *that* novel is excellent!

Without spoiling the plot, I'll say the main character became more and more important to me as the book proceeded. I confess I ignored and skipped some portions of his flashbacks of past experiences, because of strong interest in the main storyline, and I didn't feel I lost anything critical to my experience as a reader.To get could have been a two-dimensional court type, but he wasn't and I came to care about him as a person. I was sorry when the book ended.He did his best in difficult circumstances and he valued the people he encountered. I'd hope I could do as well.

My very favorite author. I have reread all his books many times and I have always been captivated. His characters are always well developed. The only negative thing in all his books is the spelling and grammar. He really needs better proofreaders who read every word. The stories are always good and thought provoking, but the many errors in all his books always distracts me.

This is a great book. It gives you a sense of how the world could be in the future and how technology can be viewed as evil by people who control people.

Usually I give Modesitt 5 stars, but this stand alone book gets only 4. I liked it though. Too much talk of societies and politics, but he does do that a lot. You'll enjoy the book. Read ALL of his books!

This requires intelligent reading. You must actually think as you consider the situations and judgements the author requires. It's not an easy read, not something to skim through effortlessly on a day off. Highly recommended.

I must open by saying I am a huge Modesitt fan but I haven't enjoyed his more recent science fiction as much as his past works. I found they were filled with jargon that wasn't explained well and were difficult to follow. This book is much simpler in that there is a single main character and the chapters alternate between an assignment in the present and an assignment in the past. This novel is short and to the point, but I definitely enjoyed it. It reminded me of  Adiamante , another book by Modesitt that explores the rift between two disparate groups of people with similar origins. However, Adiamante was written from the perspective of the people on the ground, trying to convince the seemingly overwhelming forces of the invaders that it would not be a good idea to attack. Haze is written from the point of view of the invaders; they find it difficult to believe that it may be a bad idea to attack this seemingly weak society that focuses on ecology and the real cost of goods rather than military might.There are a number of recurring themes from Modesitt's past novels and blog entries: the true cost of goods, energy, and consumption, excellence and knowledge vs. the opinionated masses, and comments about the arts and education system. It's not as preachy as other novels which is refreshing but I do enjoy a bit of relevant social commentary (even if/when I don't agree with it).

Good reading. Would have been a five if not for the poor translation to the kindle format. Not so much spelling but it was scanned and then obviously not edited. Seems to be an ongoing issue with many kindle books.

Good strong story about rediscovery of a lost part of Humanity and its impact on a static and suspicious/jealous society. Are they all they seem? Are they a threat? Should they be welcomed, ignored or destroyed? Our hero is sent to find out and his adventures lead us to question just who are the good guys.

Modesitt can write excellent Sci-Fi; and can also write inferior stuff churned out for money. This is just eco-fascist rubbish, barely involving, improbable, poorly plotted, and not worth your time.

Typical Modesitt characters and exploration of themes. I wasn't quite as engaged with the hero as usual but it's still an excellent read and Modesitt fans will love this book.

I enjoy LEM

I am a huge fan of this writer, constantly amazed at his output and creactivity. This book is an outstanding read, well crafted and with a very clever theme running throughout. Very topical considering the UK is the most monitored country in the world. Please buy and read - also look at all his other creations - pure genius

It reads more like a book from an older era - I've been reading too much Banks / Hamilton recently I suppose. There are way fewer 'sci-fi' terms in this book, but the story and pace are relaxing =) If you like Modesitt - then you should like this. It's not space opera, or high tech, but just pleasant. It's an odd book to categorise.

I enjoyed reading Haze. An interesting story line,well told and kept my attention right through to the end.

... le thème de ce livre, et ses héros.Lassitude, redite, manque d'inspiration....... malgré une plume toujours aussi fluide et brillante,Modesitt peine à me convaincre dans ses derniers ouvrages de Science Fiction.Alors que, paradoxalement,pour ses ouvrages d'Héroïc Fantasy, il garde une grande fraicheur d'inspiration qui me comble.