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Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In the latter half of the 21st century, Mars has been transformed for habitation by the Gattis, an intelligent alien species. They maintain a façade of peaceful cooperation with humanity, but their true nature is that of conquerors. Employing advanced technology, the Gattis manipulate genetics to enhance their predatory prowess and dominate other species. Humanity's resistance group, known as the Wake, seeks to retaliate against the Gattis' oppressive rule on Mars. Amidst the conflict, Don, a brave survivor with lost memories, and Shana, a young woman who suffered a loss due to the Gattis' actions, become essential members of the Wake. Unexpectedly, they encounter Eio, a stranded, transparent, and friendly alien who is scientifically matterless by human standards. Together, they strive to understand Eio's unique abilities, which could provide an advantage in the impending clash against the Gattis in Man on Mars: The Wake by X. Quinn.
As a science nerd, I was super impressed with Man on Mars: The Wake by X. Quinn, and it really does tick all the boxes. I dog-eared swaths of chapter nine with its Cell-Free Bio-Synthesis System, a sophisticated technology for producing essential nutrients, advanced weaponry like Andro's death bullets, the human gene hunters Vgeeht and Lekk and their needle guns, and their objective of accelerating evolution for Gattis' success on Earth. The writing is well done to the point where these details do not get lost in huge information dumps and instead are woven into the fabric of action and restrained dialogue. There are many characters and alternating points of view but Quinn has developed them fully so there is no confusion, and the alien races themselves are totally diverse. What I wouldn't give to see Eio rearrange his mouth and stomach for real. Overall, Quinn has delivered a winning read and I look forward to seeing what comes next.
