Rate: 3.5/5

Medium: Audiobook

Overview (No Spoilers):

After finishing each of the first two installments of The Expanse series, I was rather apathetic regarding picking up the next books in line. Based on the events being orchestrated at the conclusion of Leviathan Wakes and Caliban’s War I just couldn’t see how the following book, in addition to being lengthy, could be pleasant in the least. That being said, Corey found his groove in Abaddon’s Gate as I was hooked from the beginning and for the first time in this series I am eagerly looking forward to picking up the next book in queue. Filled with familiar characters, who continued to garner depth throughout this read, battle scenes had me on the edge of my seat, as their fate was held on the perilous tip of Corey’s blood soaked pen.  Abaddon’s Gate was by no means an easy or fun read, as it was filled with tragic deaths, interspersed between humanity exhibiting roles ranging from the sane and competent to terrified and unhinged. Some of the mystery surrounding the protomolecule was revealed, however for every secret clarified, a handful of new questions were left unsolved.  Regardless, the world building carefully crafted by Corey thus far took more of a back seat in this book with greater emphasis was spent on politics and debating philosophy with respect to the protomolecule and human’s role in this now much more expansive world. Upon finishing the previous novels of this series, I delayed placing my hold for the next book over several months, however in stark contrast, I’ve already reserved Cibola Burn. Overall, Abaddon’s Gate was by far my favorite read thus far in The Expanse, especially considering limitless directions Corey could now direct this literary adventure and so full of potential now that the foundation has been established, allowing the series to grow beyond this galaxy.

Additional Insight (Spoilers Abound):

• What is Naomi’s hidden past that Holden doesn’t know about?
• Holden was significantly less annoying in this third installment, in stark contrast to its predecessor. I enjoyed his reflections upon how he’s changed from when we first met him.
• Clarissa Mao was one of the best crazy, evil characters I’ve encountered recently in literature. I’m not quite sold on her redemption arc, however I was surprised to find myself hoping that she might join the crew permanently. Does Holden really have to return her to Luna?
• Poor, poor Bull! I loved his character and thought he might be replacing Miller. I was shocked he didn’t make it through the battle, however Corey was definitely setting up his death. Although, Sam’s death was by far the most shocking of the series thus far for me. I couldn’t believe she was killed so abruptly!
• Anna offered such an interesting perspective throughout Abaddon’s Gate. I often found her refreshing, although she sometimes migrated toward annoyance, especially near the end. I can’t see her playing a role in the rest of the series.
• What new worlds will Holden discover?