If you're a fan of the Halo games, this is a must read, more than any other of the published Halo novels. Personally, I've enjoyed them all to greater and lesser degrees, but none are as vital to an understanding of the Halo mythos, in general, and, especially, the events in Halo 2 as this book. Here is the backstory that the game only implied the existence of, and it is beautifully told. Shirley is an excellent writer, and I'm incredibly grateful for the insights his book brings to the Halo universe.
The first Halo game (Combat Evolved) did an excellent job of revealing its story as the game unfolded. I've often said playing the original Halo felt like living in a science fiction novel, and, for me, is why it far surpassed even its excellent gameplay and overall design, and hooked me on the entire universe. Halo 2 again had excellent gameplay, but the story was not as well revealed. In fact, it felt a bit random on first play, albeit still a lot of fun. Replaying it again in the Master Chief Collection, after having read Shirley's book, it's clear they had much of this backstory in mind. But Shirley makes it real, filling in the details, revealing the characters, connecting the dots. Now playing the game again is a blast, specifically because I understand why certain events happen, why certain reactions are what they are, why certain comments are made, that formerly were only suggestive, at best. It's like living in a science fiction novel this time, when it really didn't feel like that the first time, for me.
Well, I'm off to finish Halo 2, 3, and 4 again (having recently replayed Halo 1) in delicious anticipation of Halo 5's arrival this Fall. And I hope John Shirley writes more Halo novels, whether they are providing more backstory or exploring new directions. Regardless, thanks John!
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Top reviews from other countries
Riley Lehouillier
Interesting lore of the halo universe
Reviewed in Canada on September 18, 2022Jonathan Anderson
Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 20, 2020
Philippe Desjardins
Great HALO story for those interested in the Covenant side of things
Reviewed in Canada on September 21, 2021
