Matter by Iain M. Banks

[samvara]

Science fiction, part of the Culture series and totally accessible. The story follows four royal siblings of the Sarl (a not particularly advanced race) in their quest to not die from murdering intrigue (with dubious success) and explores the various mentor relationships that exist between the more 'advanced' races.

I love that even the Culture isn't sure if the Veil or the Iln were in the right. I love the way Djan interacts with her assigned combat done - especially when she has to leave it. I like the way being part of the Culture is a state of mind that allows people to choose meaning in their lives.

Comments

[ironed_orchid]

Sounds like a culture novel, and one I should put on my list of books to acquire.

[samvara]

It's not the easiest read, but I found it rewarding.

[ironed_orchid]

I think the latest book by Bank's I read was The Algebraist, and there might be one or two I missed.

[samvara]

Oh I loved that - I could totally read it again.

[ironed_orchid]

It was rather glorious.

[strangedave]

I also like the way it deliberately subverts the standard adventure narrative.