A review by erikufli
The Calculating Stars by Mary Robinette Kowal

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

If this book wasn't the Hugo, Locus, and Nebula winner, I wouldn't be so disappointed. It can't compete with other winners, the characters are flat, the narrative is basic, even amateur. I had no interest on the conflicts, and was embarrassed with the silly-teenager tone on the "romantic" scenes. More like young novel than a sci-fi classic.
On the other hand, there is a great research job on how things work, scientific explanations and detailed descriptions that help to maintain the interest. I loved the
Spoiler pilots part,
I could feel the work behind it, it surpassed the characters building by far.