Tyler Rudd Hall

Something is lost in translation in this second novel in the series. Perhaps the problem lies in the formality of dialogue. I have noticed that authors who set their work in the future do see our future selves as being that formal. Given the de-evolution of language to this point, I’m not sure that’s such a safe bet.

As with "Catalyst" (the first book in the trilogy), we get a lot of telling and not a lot of showing in "Beacon." Again, Hall writes the “Only man in Passage with an Imp” show more and again that moniker was used frequently which can get quite annoying for the reader. He is also known as Mr. Smith and I believe at some point that is his de-facto name. Sneed is back and looking within himself without his Imp. He is fully ready to help with whatever is to come. Of course, the driving force and waiting to spring is Mac. He has superhuman powers and is ready to use them to save the human race. Hall laces "Beacon" with promise for the final book in the trilogy but, perhaps in preparation, "Beacon" falls behind "Catalyst" as a novel that would hold my interest. It must be difficult as an author to write this transitional kind of novel preparing for an ultimate end that will tie all of the story lines together.

Hall, once again, makes deeply social commentary through his characters.
The aliens are interesting and the set-up for what’s to come is compelling. If you like sci-fi, read "Catalyst" and then read "Beacon" and then eagerly await the final novel. show less