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james_desantis 's review for:

Old Man's War by John Scalzi
5.0

Every once in awhile I get a book that just blows my mind. I can't even remember a 5 out of 5 book in the last year or two (except Red Rising trilogy). So here it is, and man oh man did Old Man's War deliver.

John Perry is a old fart (not my words, his) and his wonderful wife has passed away. So what does he do? Sign up for the military. Oh, that sounds...odd. Oh but we're going to Space Baby!

Oh don't like Space? Don't worry me either. I mean don't get me wrong. I enjoy Star Wars, Ender's Game, and Mass Effect but overall Sci-fi in space isn't really my thing. Once in awhile I enjoy it but it just was never my preferred setting.

This book takes place 80% of the time in Space yet not ONCE did it bother me, get in the way, or hurt it in any way. You know why? The author doesn't give you boring details about the shape or color of each ship, or what gas they use to travel, or some boring ass shit like that. No, they give you just enough sci-fi to be intrigued but not overwhelmed. No, this story is deeper than that. It's about coming to terms with death, of growing old, of being alone, and second chances.

I loved that there was really no "love" story but connection instead. People connected in friendly ways (including fucking) but never silly 3 way love triangle, or love so strong you'll beat everything cause of i, no it all felt real. It was just so well done because the John and the rest of the cast.

The fights work so well because it's first person, you feel the pain, the fear, the bravery of John and then what he sees around him. It makes each battle exciting, no matter how one sided some are weather good or bad for the humans.

The pacing is near perfect. Giving you enough action, plot development, character development, and never overstaying its welcome. At around 330 pages it covers everything it needs to and gives you a finisher you'll love.

I know it's a series but like my friend told me, each book feels like it's own tale and though some connect you don't need to read on. I see that 100% because I felt completely satisfied when I was done with this book however I want more.

So yes, Old Man's War is worth reading right away. If you love space and sci-fi you'll love this. If you dislike space or don't care about it, still a great chance you'll LOVE this. So check it out, and hopefully you'll enjoy it as much as me!