The Stars at War – David Weber, Steve White
Title: The Stars at War
Author: David Weber, Steve White
Genre: Science Fiction
This is actually two novels in one (called a megabook). This volume includes both Crusade and In Death Ground. Those familiar with David Webber’s other books will not be surprised at the large emphasis upon the military, strategy and the role of technology in warfare.
Crusade is a very intense book, about an alien race’s invasion of human space. Their goal, actually, is to “rescue” the human race from their apostasy and return them to their true faith. White and Webber have crafted a rather intense narrative. Though there are breaks from the intense action and warfare for some political maneuvering as well as military strategizing, a bulk of the book is taken up with the battles. The author’s do not skimp on the intensity or harsh reality of war, at the same time, though, they maintain a pace and energy throughout which keeps you completely enthralled with what is unfolding therein.
In Death Ground runs much the same gamut, taking place roughly 50 years (or so) in the future from the time the events chronicled in Crusade happened. The action, though not the same, is of equal or even more intense nature. And the stakes have been raised. Now the humans and all their allies are being attacked and invaded by an alien race, referred to as ‘Bugs’. The Bugs have one thing in mind for their enemies: annihilation. Well, annihilation as well as finding them to be a food source. Though slightly more advanced in their technology and weaponry, the Bugs more than make up for their lack through brute numbers and a total disregard to sacrificing its own for its purposes.
Please note that In Death Ground starts a story that is actually concluded in The Shiva Option, which is also the first of the two novels in the megabook which follows this one: The Stars at War II.
Both novels are filled with compelling and intriguing characters. Be forewarned, though, unlike the Honor Harrington series, there really are no central characters. This is more a universe based series of novels. Though there is definitely some continuity between characters from one book to the next – but all bets are off as to who survives and who doesn’t.
All in all, an excellent pair of novels, though I would recommend getting the second megabook of the series so you don’t have to wait for the conclusion of the storyline started in In Death Ground. I highly recommend this to any fan of science fiction, especially those who like the more strategic oriented narratives of the Military Sci-Fi genre.
Worldview: secular
Age Recommendation: The only hesitation for allowing younger individuals to read this is the more graphic nature of the violence. Other than that, it should be appropriate for most individuals in High School.
