Rate: 4/5 stars
Hyperion is a book set up as a frame story, around the year 2700. Seven pilgrims go on a quest with almost certain death on the planet Hyperion. While they are getting to their destination, each of them tells their story, explaining why they are participating in such a mission.
At the beginning of this book, I struggled to move on. The first two stories (Hoyt and Kassad) didn’t hook me much and I needed weeks if not months to get through them. I took many pauses and considered shelving the book as did-not-finish, but I kept moving on even if incredibly slowly. This is why it took me 6+ months to finish the book.
When I read Martin Silenus’ story, the third one, something clicked and I got finally hooked to the plot. From there on it was a smooth read that I would recommend to any fan of science fiction or, more broadly, to any lover of a well-built world and characters with distinct personalities. This book sets up the next books of the series with stunning character depth, while delivering many different but touching personal stories of each character.
I love how the author spent and incredible amount of time in world building. The non-written is a lot in each story, and this leaves the reader wondering how things work in the future that Simmons imagines. The frame story setting might not be enjoyable for everyone though.
I highly recommend this book, but it might take some time to get used to it.