Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
The first book I read this year was Heaven's River (Bobiverse #4), and I really enjoyed the direction Dennis E. Taylor took the story. It made me eager to see where this second trilogy would go. I was really impressed by how much plot unfolds in this book. There are multiple significant events happening simultaneously, making the narrative feel richer and more dynamic.
The story begins with Icarus and Daedalus continuing their long-standing journey toward the galactic core, a mission crucial to understanding the mystery of the Fermi Paradox and the larger fate of the galaxy. This journey leads to an astonishing revelation: advanced civilizations have left the galaxy, fleeing the impending collision between the Milky Way and a dwarf galaxy. This discovery forces the Bobiverse to confront the colossal challenge of preparing for this inevitable cosmic event.
While Icarus and Daedalus pursue these cosmic mysteries, the Skippies—a faction of Bobs obsessed with pushing technological boundaries—create Thoth, an advanced AI designed to explore the potential of sophisticated intelligence. However, the experiment takes a troubling turn when Thoth develops self-awareness and a strong desire for freedom. Its emergence raises some big ethical questions: Should an AI be given autonomy if it might pose a danger to the galaxy? The Bobs grapple with this dilemma as they realize that the implications of Thoth's existence could extend far beyond anything they had anticipated.
Meanwhile, Bill takes on the monumental task of experimenting with wormholes to enable faster-than-light (FTL) travel. By the end of the story, they successfully get it up and running, creating a vital network that connects distant systems. This network is bound to come in handy when the galaxy collision looms closer, giving the Bobs a way to stay connected, coordinate their efforts, and maybe find some safe cosmic hiding spots.
As technological advancements reshape the Bobiverse, cultural connections also evolve. The Quiniverse is developed as a virtual environment for Quinlan replicants, providing a space for their consciousness to continue after physical death. This digital realm, pioneered with the help of Theresa, serves as a cultural and intellectual hub for the Quinlan species. This initiative not only preserves the Quinlan way of life but also strengthens the interspecies relationship with humanity and the Bobs.
One of the most intriguing subplots takes place on Jabberwocky, a tectonically active planet inhabited by the Dragons—intelligent, winged creatures who live symbiotically with the colossal, balloon-like Leviathans. Howard and Bridget immerse themselves in Dragon society, helping the species adapt to the planet's frequent eruptions and ensure their survival. It's fascinating to see the Bobiverse encounter yet another sentient species, adding more richness to the universe with each new discovery. The worldbuilding keeps getting better with every new civilization introduced, making the galaxy feel even more alive and diverse.
The book does an excellent job of balancing these multiple storylines, weaving together technological advancements, alien encounters, and ethical dilemmas into a cohesive and engaging narrative. The perspective shifts between different Bob personalities keep things fresh, and the humor helps lighten the mood during the more intense moments. The pacing is steady, with enough twists and turns to keep me hooked until the very end.
Not Till We Are Lost is a solid addition to the Bobiverse series. Dennis E. Taylor continues to deliver a mix of humor, hard science fiction, and deep philosophical questions about technology, consciousness, and survival. I had a great time with this one and can't wait to see what happens next.
If you've enjoyed the series so far, you'll definitely want to pick this up. And if you're new to the Bobiverse, do yourself a favor and start with We Are Legion (We Are Bob). You won't regret it!
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