Retrograde by Peter Cawdron

Retrograde by Peter Cawdron is a sci-fi novel with the emphasis being on science. In addition, it is intensely suspenseful and it contains some of the elements of a thriller novel. Though it is a work of fiction, I could easily see the events described occurring within the next one hundred years.

The story is about the first human colony on Mars. The colonists consist of scientists and support personal, from a variety of countries, working together as a team to study Mars. They are almost an equal mix of male and female and represent a wide range of ethnic groups. Therefore, when the unthinkable occurs on Earth and the colony is left essentially to fend for itself it will be easy for individuals to think of themselves first and their country of origin next and not as a Martian. They will need to set aside their differences and think like Martians and use their collective intelligence if they are going to survive what is to come.

I am intentionally being vague here. It would be super easy to spoil this incredible story. Once you have read it you will see why. Also, I get why this is being called the next The Martian. In my opinion, this is truly science fiction as it should be and at its best.

I liked this book so much, mainly because the author went to great lengths to get the science correct, right down to the details of how a space suit would feel for the wearer and the geological makeup of Mars. This level of attention to detail gives the story more credence. Cawdron also did an outstanding job of portraying how a colony on Mars would be organized and function and what life would be like for someone living in that colony.  Add in a plot that was extremely well executed and highly refined characters it made for a great read.

This is one book that will require a reread at some point. It will no doubt be in my top 10 for the year. Retrograde is a must read for Science Fiction enthusiasts and for readers who enjoy a science oriented story.

I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.