The second novel in the Continuance sequence*
When Nicola Mafalda’s scout ship comes under attack, she’s left deeply traumatised by the drastic action it takes to keep her alive. Months later, when an old flame comes to her for help, she realises she has to find a way to forgive both the ship and her former lover. Reckless elements are attempting to reactivate a giant machine that has lain dormant for thousands of years. To stop them, Nicola and her crew will have to put aside their differences, sneak aboard a vast alien megaship, and try to stay alive long enough to prevent galactic devastation.
From award-winning author Gareth L. Powell, comes a gripping, fast-paced and brilliantly imagined science fiction thrill ride.
“An absolute au courant, 21st-century-genre vibe … Powell boldly ups the ante.” – LOCUS MAGAZINE
“Descendant Machine is smoothly paced, engagingly crafted, and crammed full of a sense of wonder at the sheer scale of the universe. Whatever Powell has planned next, on this evidence, it’ll be well worth paying attention.”- SFX MAGAZINE
“Descendant Machine is a fast, action focused space opera with a refreshingly adult approach to characters and emotions that firmly make it feel fresh and modern.”- RUNALONG THE SHELVES
“Gareth L. Powell delivers, yet again… Descendant Machine is the book you’ve been looking for. It’s fun dialled up to the max. It’ll put a smile on your face, a glow in your heart, and butterflies in your stomach. An absolute blast of a novel.” – FANFIADDICT
“Gareth Powell rocks again! Descendant Machine is a big concept made accessible by a masterful writer. Fun, weird, fast-paced, and thoroughly entertaining! Grab this now!” – JONATHAN MABERRY
“Hits the ground running and doesn’t stop until its universe-shaking final confrontation. Once again, Gareth Powell is writing at the top of his very considerable game. More like this, please.” – DAVE HUTCHINSON
“Descendant Machine is the most fun I’ve had all year!” – BOOKS, BONES & BUFFY
“A fast-paced and incisive story from one of the best British SF writers.” – ADRIAN TCHAIKOVSKY
“Descendant Machine works superbly.” – FANDEMONIUM NETWORK
“A massive slice of space opera perfection… breathtakingly good.” – SPARKLYPRETTYBRIIIIGHT
* The Continuance books can be read in any order