the orbital


Books in the summer of 2023

abstract depiction of a book with abstract geometric shapes, black and white

This year I really have been getting back into reading books both online and in the physical realm. Here is a list of works, I have recently read. For each I will give a short spoiler-free review.

Table of Contents

Book 1: To The Stars, Hieronym

The first book on the list is To The Stars by Hieronym which I actually started reading at the end of last year. And I will be reading it for a while to come given that this piece of web-fiction has been periodically updated for over 10 years now. The book itself is a far-future science-fiction mashup of the Madoka Magica universe.

I really like the world built at the hands of the author. It is the kind of fiction to make me hopeful and optimistic for the future. Matter of fact: The grip this series had on me is the root cause of this recent reading spree.

Book 2: The Stormlight Archive, Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson is another long book series investing in a lot world-building. Instead of a scifi setting, this is of the fantasy genre. And at that some of the best I have ever read, granted I have not read much else beyond The Lord of the Rings.

This book series was recommend to me by a friend who is into fantasy big-time. I am really glad I followed up on his advice. I love the world building and overall Sanderson’s writing style is really great except for that one line about ‘ass-sass’. TURBO-CRINGE!

Here is my progress in the series as of july 2023:

Book NumberBook TitleHave Read
1The Way of Kings✅ Read
2Words of Radiance✅ Read
2.5Edgedancer (novella)❌ Not Read
3Oathbringer✅ Read
3.5Dawnshard (novella)❌ Not Read
4Rhythm of War❌ Not Read

Although I have purchased book 4, I have not yet started reading it, as I am currently taking a break from the series. I might also read the novellas but this will largely depend on my schedule.

Book 3: The Moon is a Harsh Mistress, Robert A. Heinlein

The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlein is a science-fiction classic. I have bought this on the recommendation of a random person from twitter.

I am currently still reading this and have not yet much to say. Sofar it has been quite enjoyable. I might report back once I have read further.

Reading List

Here are some of the books I plan to (re)-read:

Call for Recommendations

The reading list above is quite sparse. If you, dear reader, know of any good books which I should read. Come at me on twitter or per mail (Contact info in the About tab).