Author: Edward Ashton
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Released: February 25, 2025
Received: Library
Find it on Storygraph | More Sci-fi
Book Summary:
Dalton Greaves signed up to become a human representative for Unity because he felt like he didn’t have much of a choice. The fact that they wrapped up the job offer with a pretty little bow didn’t hurt.
Now he’s on a distant planet, trapped with just one other representative and an Assembly cruiser. Oh, and the aliens are perfectly capable of destroying Dalton on a whim, so this is going to be a blast.
My Review:
The Fourth Consort has got to be one of the most bizarre novels I have ever read, and I went into this book expecting some quirky twists. A lot is happening in this singular book, starting with interspecies politics and ending with the strangest love triangle you’ll ever see. (Probably.)
It’s safe to say that Edward Ashton took some big risks when writing The Fourth Consort. It’s quirky and experimental sci-fi at its best, as one character does everything in his power to stay alive and make the right decisions (ideally ones that will also allow him to continue breathing).
Obviously, it’s both tempting and easy to focus on the more humorous elements of The Fourth Consort. The character is sarcastic and witty, and his interactions with those around him are memorable, especially when he gets into quite the pickle!
However, The Fourth Consort also explores deeper concepts and concerns, including honor and different perspectives between alien races. There are these speckles of profound lessons tucked into the chaos, drama, and humor.
Long story short, The Fourth Consort is worth reading, especially if you’re an Edward Ashton fan. I’m not sure we’ll ever see this novel become a live-action adaptation, unlike Mickey7 (Mickey17).
Highlights:
- Sci-Fi Fantasy
- Action & Comedy
- Alien Politics & Chaos
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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