Mechwarrior: Dark Age #21: Principles of Desolation (A BattleTech Novel)

I truly wanted to enjoy this work; honestly, I did. The Scorpion Jar was a surprisingly pleasant read, and as such I was looking forward to seeing how Hardy would address the sadly-back-to-stereotypical-House Liao, given that Mr. Coleman already created one solid entry regarding said state. Unfortunately, this was the beginning (as always, in my personal opinion) of an increasingly large fall concerning this author's work. The dual nature of the writing credit also serves to distort the overall perception of this novel, as you never really know what's coming from who. Although I am very appreciative of Mr. Bills concerning his past and continuing work in the Battletech universe, turning out paperbacks himself is definitely not his calling. Again, just my opinion.

We have another character having its coverage extended, but in what's now become an unfortunate trend, this author has mostly disregarded what characterization has been set in place in favor of propagating...Read more

I really enjoyed Hardy's "The Scorpion Jar" and was really looking forward to this one, but was, unfortunately, really disappointed. Sure, we find out a secret about Danai and two big arrangements are made between Liao and its neighbors, but nothing really happens in this book. Danai, as the primary focus of the book, is supposed to draw us in, but I never really developed any attachments to her. Sure you feel sorry for her misfortune, but she is a less-than-convincing character. She's surrounded by cliches (the serious strategist, the cocky, sex-obsessed guy, the sympathetic relative) and really leaves the reading thinking "um, ok, then what?" Of the last 10 Mechwarrior books, the only ones I have really enjoyed have been the ones relating to the main storyline (i.e. - The Scorpion Jar, The Sword of Sedition, and Fortress Republic), which is really the same way the Battletech series went. I've just started "Wolf Hunters" and I'm really dreading another bust, but I'm trying to...Read more

I picked up a Jason M. Hardy book once on impulse and have never regretted it. I may not be a good reviewer but I can say that I have now enjoyed three books by this author and find his writing style to be excellent. This fellow can really tell a story. I recommend the book very highly.