Nova

by Samuel R. Delany
Nova cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 10528
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-28
  • ISBN: 9780575119192
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-02-27
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Nova is a thrilling science fiction adventure set in the 31st century, where the balance of galactic power hinges on Illyrion, the most valuable energy source in the universe. Captain Lorq van Ray assembles a diverse and skilled crew for a high-stakes mission, but his true intentions are shrouded in secrecy. The crew knows the mission is dangerous, but they are unaware of Lorq's obsessive goal to gather Illyrion at its source by flying through the core of an imploding star. The story explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the lengths to which one will go for power. As the crew faces unimaginable challenges, they must confront not only the physical dangers of their mission but also the moral complexities of their captain's quest. Nova is a gripping tale of adventure and intrigue, set against the backdrop of a vast and unpredictable universe.

Reviews
Metaphorosis Reviews · B. Morris Allen · 2023-05-27
great 3.50

The novel is described as highly stylized and full of archetypes, with a thin thread of story holding it together. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the novel, despite its minimal plot.

B. Morris Allen describes Nova as a highly stylized novel that is rich with archetypes and implications. The story itself is minimal, but the reviewer finds depth and complexity in the novel's execution. The balance between the pulpy settings and deeper themes is particularly noted. While the plot may be thin, the novel's stylistic and thematic elements make it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the novel's unique approach and its ability to engage readers on multiple levels.

Quick quotes

    Nova is a highly stylized novel, full of archetypes and implication.

    With only a thin thread of story to hold it together.

    It is a great and deep space opera.

At Boundary's Edge · 2022-09-02
good 4.00

The book is considered a strong starting point for exploring the SF Masterworks, with minor quibbles not detracting from its overall quality. The novel's ambition is noted, but it is praised for its smooth and weightless reading experience.

This review highlights Nova as a very good book that serves as a worthy introduction to the SF Masterworks series. While there are a few minor issues, they do not significantly impact the overall enjoyment and quality of the novel. The reviewer appreciates the book's ambitious scope and how it manages to feel light and engaging despite its complex themes. The plot, initially narrow, expands in a satisfying way, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    Nova is a very good book, in spite of a few minor quibbles.

    It is a worthy starting point for anyone looking to dive into the SF Masterworks.

    The plot feels narrow at first, but it expands like a light.

the Little Red Reviewer · 2018-01-06
good 4.00

The novel is praised for its smooth and weightless reading experience, despite its ambitious and potentially overwhelming plot. The reviewer appreciates how the story expands and becomes more engaging as it progresses.

This reviewer finds Nova to be a surprisingly smooth and weightless read, considering its ambitious and potentially overwhelming plot. The initial narrow focus of the story is noted, but it is praised for expanding in a light and engaging manner. The reviewer enjoys how the novel manages to balance its complex themes with an accessible and enjoyable narrative. The character study and the riffing on ancient mythologies are particularly highlighted as strengths.

Quick quotes

    It sounds overweight and dangerously ambitious, but it reads smooth and weightless.

    The plot feels narrow at first, but it expands like a light.

    A science fiction adventure quest novel riffing on ancient mythologies.

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