I took a chance on this book since it was included in Audible Plus. I liked the synopsis so I took a chance. I was very impressed by the book. You have a group of interplanetary explorers that awaken on their return to Earth and prepare to be welcomed home as heroes. Surprise! They are coming home to an Earth that is 800 years older in real time. Their first indication that something might be wrong is the lack of activity in the solar system as well as the lack of communication from Earth. What we learn when the crew first awakens is that the members were not screened well psychologically and that has created issues between the surviving crew members. How big these issues are come to light when troubles arise soon after they enter Earth orbit. We find that some descendants are living on Mars, but there are some on Earth. Big differences between the two!! As the trouble builds, the surviving crew members end up on Earth, hoping for rescue by their Martian colonies. However, instead of working together the majority work for their own interests based on what they know and assume – big emphasis on assume. Maybe a little more communication might have helped, but the interpersonal conflicts eliminated that possibility.
I see this book as being realistic in terms of possible human behavior in a crisis situation. Some might view it as being negative and harmful – but I feel the reactions of everyone involved were very possible depending on the personalities of the people involved. I can see this story being continued in a series – there is a LOT of story left to tell – so maybe we will get to learn what happens to the survivors somewhere down the road!
Great story!! I would recommend you take a chance at listening/reading this book!!!!