Book Review: ‘The Long Sunset’ by Jack McDevitt

The Long Sunset is the eighth and seemingly the final book in Jack McDevitt’s Academy series.

I don’t believe I’ve read any of McDevitt’s science fiction novels prior to now and while I knew The Long Sunset was part of series I actually didn’t realise it was the last book when I picked it up. This was a book whose front cover grabbed my attention. A sword, a black hole, and a spaceship…I needed to know the story behind this image.

So, what is The Long Sunset about? Interest in intergalactic travel is wanning when a signal is intercepted, sent from an intelligent race somewhere in the universe. Protagonist and pilot’s Priscilla ‘Hutch’ Hutchins is thrilled at the prospect of piloting another mission but the entire project is in jeopardy from a paranoid Earth that fears invasion from an all-powerful alien foe. Hutch and her crew decide to take a chance, disobeying orders, and setting out for the source of the signal. The seemingly simple mission takes a turn when the crew crash-lands on a planet in the path of a black hole. Only by working with the Volaria, the planet’s dolphin-like inhabitants, do they stand any chance of survival.

I was nervous when I started The Long Sunset as I assumed there would be lots that wouldn’t make sense to me but instead I was surprised by how easy it was to follow the story. There are references to Hutch’s previous missions, which I believe feature in the prequel novels, however they are not integral to understanding and enjoying this story. I’m sure there were many references that I didn’t pick up on but, as a new reader to the series, these simply added to the world building of this futurist Earth. Some of the other Academy book plots sound really interesting and I’m hoping to return to this series in the future.

I really loved McDevitt’s blend of big dramatic moments combined with the quiet moments between characters. However my favourite chapters were actually the ones which focused on the exploration aspect of the story. Detailed descriptions meant that I had no problem visualising what the crew were seeing from the windows of the ship. The team encounter a variety of phenomena on their travels. Had the entire story merely featured a sight-seeing mission I still would have completely enjoyed the book.

Another strength of the book is the bond shown between the characters. There is the obvious connection with married couple Beth and Ken; whose relationship is mirrored in the Volaria couple: Arin and Kwylla. Hutch is a dreamer but she also acts as the pragmatic mother-figure of the group. In contrast, Wally is the brother-figure of the team who grumbles at being left out of shuttle missions but who takes it upon himself to provide entertainment and light-hearted relief for his new friends. I really enjoyed the inclusion of the ship’s AI Barry who, contrary to sci-fi stereotype, genuinely cares about the crew and wants them to be happy and safe. The final crew member is the expedition leader Derek. At times he serves also as an antagonistic figure – determined to complete the mission irregardless of safety and the wishes of the crew. Over the course the novel there is a mellowing between Derek and the crew as they learn to see things from each other’s point of view.

The Long Sunset is a classic space opera with exploration, adventure, aliens, and life-or-death scenarios. The plot offers plenty to enjoy and for me there was never a dull moment in the book. McDevitt’s storytelling kept me entertained and engaged throughout.

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