I chose Saturn’s Race because I was intrigued by how the author would tie together science fiction, love, and conflict. I also thought the cover of the book was intriguing. Saturn’s Race is set in the near future when humanity has created artificial islands which are home to some of the wealthiest, smartest, and most powerful men and women in the world as well as revolutionary technological innovations. The islands are practically nations in the way they operate with countries around the world: selling goods and technology, providing aid, protecting their assets and interests.

The story revolves around Lenore Myles, a brilliant recently graduated college student invited to Xanadu(one of the main islands) for a recruitment event. At the event she becomes entangled with Chaz Kato, a scientist and citizen of Xanadu, who gives her unrestricted access to Xanadu’s systems to gain her trust and convince her to work on the island. While exploring the island, Lenore discovers a paramount secret about Xanadu that could change the world. Unsure of what to do next, Lenore flees the island but is pursued by Saturn, a powerful mysterious entity that protects Xanadu’s secrets. In this thriller, Lenore seeks to survive as Saturn races to protect Xanadu’s secret and Chaz Kato decides where his allegiance lies.

The main themes within the book are cybernetics, utopias, and advanced computer technology. My favorite parts of the book are the depiction of sci-fi technology and the pace at which the story is told which keeps me on the edge of my seat. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a thrilling adventure novel with themes of advanced technology, a utopian society, and computer systems.

Authors: Larry Niven and Steven Barnes, Publication year: 2000