Damocles

By: S. G. Redling

Narrated by: Angela Dawe

When Earth is rocked by evidence that extraterrestrials may have seeded human DNA throughout the universe, a one-way expedition into deep space is mounted to uncover the truth. What linguist Meg Dupris and her crewmates aboard the Earth ship Damocles discover on Didet - a planet bathed in the near-eternal daylight of seven suns - is a humanoid race with a different language, a different look, and a surprisingly similar society. But here, it’s the "Earthers" who are the extraterrestrial invaders, and it’s up to Meg - a woman haunted by tragedy and obsessed with the power of communication - to find the key to establishing trust between the natives and the newcomers. In Loul Pell, a young Dideto male thrust into the forefront of the historic event, Meg finds an unexpected kindred spirit, and undertakes an extraordinary journey of discovery, friendship, and life-altering knowledge.Told from both sides of a monumental encounter, Damocles is a compelling novel about man’s first contact with an extraterrestrial race.

©2013 S. G. Redling (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

3.5 stars

This is a very interesting story. Five research astronauts land on new planet and make contact. The author provides a unique perspective during the story of both human and alien experiences and perceptions. I give it about 3 1/2 stars. Characters and story line not always believable. The narrator had trouble with some of the male voices.

First Contact

A great "first contact" book between humans and another species with all the obvious (and a few very subtle) problems of establishing a common form of communication. It's told from the point of view of the two protagonists - the alien and the human. Excellent and thought provoking book

Loved it, but....

The story was an original one and I love the fact that we get to experience the events from two perspectives. But as the story draws to and end, it is like the author could not be bothered to tie up the loose ends. Feels like the author just wanted to end it as soon as possible. Really disappointing....

Just Ok

Had some interesting twists on first contact scenarios but I found large parts of it (translated dialogue) to be extremely tedious. Fairly anti-climactic overall.

Good up to a point. Then tedious, and ridiculous.

Much of the book kept my attention. But eventually, listening to two main characters attempting meaningful conversation in "me Susan" "you Elroy" style wore on me. I skipped ahead multiple chapters hoping for an end to the clumsy and ultimately fraught dialogue. No. Then the crew, who'd demonstrated skill, cooperation, and respect devolved into extremely juvenile behavior. This was exasperating listening and unnecessary to move the story onto it's conclusion. I didn't bother listening through the end, I was so very over it by then.