Hidden Empire by Orson Scott Card

Hidden Empire delves into a mysterious world where knowledge is currency and power is hidden in plain sight. The story follows a protagonist who stumbles upon a secret that could unravel the very fabric of society. As they navigate a web of deception and intrigue, they must decide who to trust and what sacrifices are worth making for the truth. The book is praised for its intricate world-building and complex characters, blending elements of mystery and adventure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. It's a tale of discovery, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to protect what they believe in.

Reviews

Military History · 2016-11-16

engaging 4.00

The story is engaging and moves quickly, with a surprising twist at the end that, while evident in hindsight, is still impactful. The narrative is well-paced and keeps the reader hooked throughout.

Military History praises Orson Scott Card's ability to craft a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. They highlight the book's fast-paced storytelling and the satisfying twist at the end, which, although predictable in retrospect, adds a layer of depth to the story. The reviewer also appreciates the way Card explores complex themes and characters, making the book a thought-provoking read. However, they note that some of the plot points might feel a bit thin or underdeveloped, but overall, the book is a solid addition to Card's body of work.

Quick quotes

Card delivers a superb story that moves right along and delivers a twist at the end that is ex post facto evident but surprising.

The narrative is well-paced and keeps the reader hooked throughout.

The book is a thought-provoking read that explores complex themes and characters.

Billion Light-Year Bookshelf · 2010-08-08

powerful 4.20

The book presents a grim sequence of human suffering and bravery, making it a powerful and emotional read. The story's exploration of almost impossible odds adds to its impact.

Billion Light-Year Bookshelf highlights the grim and emotional nature of 'Hidden Empire', noting the book's powerful depiction of human suffering and bravery. They appreciate the story's exploration of almost impossible odds, which adds a layer of depth and intensity to the narrative. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and engaging, particularly for readers who enjoy stories that grapple with complex moral and ethical questions. However, they note that the book's grim tone might not be suitable for all readers, and some of the plot points could be more fully developed. Overall, the reviewer finds the book a compelling and emotional read.

Quick quotes

It is a very grim sequence of human suffering and bravery in the face of almost impossible odds.

The story's exploration of complex moral and ethical questions adds to its impact.

The book is a powerful and emotional read that will resonate with readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives.

San Diego Union-Tribune · 2009-12-23

compelling 3.50

The book is an engaging parable about heroism, history, and Christian faith, set in a near-future scenario. While the writing is not finely honed, the story's exploration of moral ambiguity is compelling.

The San Diego Union-Tribune describes 'Hidden Empire' as an engaging parable that delves into themes of heroism, history, and Christian faith. They appreciate the book's exploration of moral ambiguity and its setting in a near-future scenario, which adds a layer of relevance to the story. However, they note that the writing could be more polished, and some of the characters and plot points feel underdeveloped. Despite these flaws, the reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and enjoyable, particularly for readers interested in speculative fiction that grapples with complex moral questions.

Quick quotes

Set only a few years in the future, 'Hidden Empire' is an engaging, if not finely written, parable about heroism and history and Christian faith.

The book's exploration of moral ambiguity is compelling and thought-provoking.

The setting in a near-future scenario adds a layer of relevance to the story.

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Best Orson Scott Card Books Ranked