Review of Homecoming
Posted: 18 Oct 2023, 15:09
[Following is a volunteer review of "Homecoming" by Jude Austin.]
Kata and Project Tau left a wake of bodies behind in their escape from the GenTech laboratory after being subject to 'pain acclimation' (i.e., torture), genetic experimentation, and training to obey anyone who might buy them. The two unlikely friends were now on the run, considered fugitives, and sought after by bounty hunters from every planet. They were considered mass murderers and non-persons (Kata, because GenTech fabricated his death after abducting him, and Tau, because he was merely property, a human clone). Homecoming by Jude Austin picks up where her first book, Project Tau, left off. Kata and Tau barely thought ahead before executing their getaway. They found they had few options to find a secure refuge in the aftermath.
Kata is convinced that their best bet is to return to his home planet, Trandellia. He firmly believes that there he can seek justice for the wrongs he has faced, regain his legal status as a living being, and, as a bonus, free Project Tau from any more scientific experiments and enslavement. In this installment, Kata and Project Tau become entangled with an unsavory criminal syndicate while also being beholden to powerful government elements. To make matters worse, they end up being separated from each other, forcing them to confront their individual strengths and weaknesses. It is a true test of their abilities and resilience.
Jude Austin effortlessly maintains the same excitement and suspense in this second book as her first. Take a shower and eat food, because once you start reading, you might as well have gorilla tape on your chair. Something I love about this writer is how she manages to inject timely humor into the narrative. The dialogue had me in stitches. Tau, who has never been outside the laboratory and lacks most life experience and knowledge, has a convincing personality. At one point, when Dan is observed to be viewing "adult materials," Tau wonders why, if Dan wants to look at unclothed humans, he does not just look in a mirror!
Simultaneously, the author forges drama throughout the much-anticipated homecoming. My heart was aching for Kata after he reluctantly agreed to kill his best friend if he could not save him from GenTech. The significance of Tau's request leads to an in-depth reflection on what it means to be human. This was also a theme presented in the first book. I could not help but feel a twinge of disappointment when I saw that Kata and Tau had been separated. However, it was inspiring to witness how each embarked on their distinct journey and navigated their unique challenges. While Kata faced the daunting task of rediscovering the art of trusting others after enduring countless instances of manipulation and mistreatment, Tau had to develop the ability to cultivate independent thought and action. The ending took me by surprise, showcasing yet another brilliant twist that I truly appreciate in the author's writing.
This book absolutely deserves a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars. There is truly nothing to dislike about this novel, including the impeccable editing. For those who crave adventure, have a passion for science fiction, enjoy being on the edge of their seats, and prefer a fast-paced reading experience, this is a selection for you! If you prefer to avoid profanity or are sensitive to the topics of rape and torture, it might not be your cup of tea.
******
Homecoming
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
Kata and Project Tau left a wake of bodies behind in their escape from the GenTech laboratory after being subject to 'pain acclimation' (i.e., torture), genetic experimentation, and training to obey anyone who might buy them. The two unlikely friends were now on the run, considered fugitives, and sought after by bounty hunters from every planet. They were considered mass murderers and non-persons (Kata, because GenTech fabricated his death after abducting him, and Tau, because he was merely property, a human clone). Homecoming by Jude Austin picks up where her first book, Project Tau, left off. Kata and Tau barely thought ahead before executing their getaway. They found they had few options to find a secure refuge in the aftermath.
Kata is convinced that their best bet is to return to his home planet, Trandellia. He firmly believes that there he can seek justice for the wrongs he has faced, regain his legal status as a living being, and, as a bonus, free Project Tau from any more scientific experiments and enslavement. In this installment, Kata and Project Tau become entangled with an unsavory criminal syndicate while also being beholden to powerful government elements. To make matters worse, they end up being separated from each other, forcing them to confront their individual strengths and weaknesses. It is a true test of their abilities and resilience.
Jude Austin effortlessly maintains the same excitement and suspense in this second book as her first. Take a shower and eat food, because once you start reading, you might as well have gorilla tape on your chair. Something I love about this writer is how she manages to inject timely humor into the narrative. The dialogue had me in stitches. Tau, who has never been outside the laboratory and lacks most life experience and knowledge, has a convincing personality. At one point, when Dan is observed to be viewing "adult materials," Tau wonders why, if Dan wants to look at unclothed humans, he does not just look in a mirror!
Simultaneously, the author forges drama throughout the much-anticipated homecoming. My heart was aching for Kata after he reluctantly agreed to kill his best friend if he could not save him from GenTech. The significance of Tau's request leads to an in-depth reflection on what it means to be human. This was also a theme presented in the first book. I could not help but feel a twinge of disappointment when I saw that Kata and Tau had been separated. However, it was inspiring to witness how each embarked on their distinct journey and navigated their unique challenges. While Kata faced the daunting task of rediscovering the art of trusting others after enduring countless instances of manipulation and mistreatment, Tau had to develop the ability to cultivate independent thought and action. The ending took me by surprise, showcasing yet another brilliant twist that I truly appreciate in the author's writing.
This book absolutely deserves a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars. There is truly nothing to dislike about this novel, including the impeccable editing. For those who crave adventure, have a passion for science fiction, enjoy being on the edge of their seats, and prefer a fast-paced reading experience, this is a selection for you! If you prefer to avoid profanity or are sensitive to the topics of rape and torture, it might not be your cup of tea.
******
Homecoming
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
. I'm definitely planning to grab a copy, but I'll start from the first book. I want the full experience.
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I feel like I've done my job! I "do" like fantasy, the Lords of the Hunt book sounds like it's in my wheelhouse! I will take a look at it! You did not lead me astray with your last set of recommendations! Until next time, friend...
I think this would be an amazing little TV series, or even movies! I hope you do take a chance on it, I don't think you'll be disappointed! Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving me a fun comment to track down! Until next time...