Chaos and Order: The Gap Into Madness

I think this book is the most compelling and powerful in the entire Gap Cycle. All the main characters come into their own power fully in this book. Yes, even Ciro, in his own way. Of special note is the fact that not until all secrets are revealed can the characters begin to unravel the tapestry of events that has enshrouded them. Morn's forgiveness towards Angus makes her a great heroine. This one will keep you in suspense all the way through.

Donaldson continues to write the most engaging, thought provoking, mind-blowing science fiction around. This series is not for the lazy. If you're willing to put in the effort and intelligence Donaldson demands to keep up with the story, it promises to be one of the best series you'll ever read, period.

It is seldom that one sees Sci-Fi with as much attention to detail as the Gap cycle. More to the point, it is not often that one sees Sci-Fi, with the possible exception of writers like Larry Niven or Arthur C. Clarke, which so seamlessly integrates hard science and psychology with real people in real situations. By real, I mean that the characters are driven to, and beyond, the limits of their ability to cope, and not only do they come out shining, but they come out reacting exactly like their background and upbringing would have them react. Donaldson's grasp of the human psyche and his ability to cut away the technology and 'Civilization' we so commonly talk up to reveal the underlying nature of humanity is colossal. He paints us, and realistically, as a cut-throat, dog-eat-dog species in a person to person struggle for survival. Which, in my experience, is exactly what we are.

The fourth book in the Gap Series is nearly as excellent as its predecessor, "A Dark and Hungry God Arises". Angus and crew flee Billingate, and a rip-roaring space-chase ensues. Aboard the ship "Trumpet", Angus, Nick, Morn, and other remnants of Nick's old crew find themselves bound together in an unholy alliance as they flee countless pursuers -- the Amnion, the UMCP, and a mercenary paid to destroy them. The big question is who will get to them first. Eventually, "Trumpet's" crew dock at a space-lab so that Vector Shaheed can complete a special formula the Amnion would kill for. Meanwhile, Nick -- ever true to character -- begins inflicting his trademark sadism and cruelty on his "allies". When pursuing ships finally converge on "Trumpet", the ensuing space-battle is one of the most memorable in science-fiction drama. (And there is an absolutely priceless scene involving Angus going EVA in the midst of it all.) Just when you're ready to breathe again, you're assailed by more chaotic and mind-numbing action. Without question the most fast-paced installment in the Gap Series. Catch your breath after this one, then read the satisfying conclusion, "This Day All Gods Die".

This book is not so much about the world that the characters are living in, but the characters themselves. Donaldson seems to take real people and fold them into the page, bringing them alive. They all have a sense of balance and reality to them, so that you even find yourself interested in 'the bad guys'. They are set out into a unique universe and sucked into an expansive and dramatic struggle that makes all of the books in this series 'page turners'. Donaldson is simply the best. I suggest giving it a try(start with 'the real story'). If you like this series give his fantasy series, Thomas Covenant the unbeliever, a try. Even if you don't usually like fantasy, his characters make it worthwhile. Summation: If you haven't already, READ THIS BOOK.... and then review it so that more word gets out.