Empire

by Orson Scott Card
Empire cover
Good Books rating 2.83
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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  • ID: 6435
  • Added: 2025-11-16
  • Updated: 2025-11-16
  • ISBN: 9780765355225
  • Publisher: Macmillan
  • Published: 2007-11-27
  • Reviews: 3

Empire presents a disturbing vision of what lies ahead, exploring themes of control, rebellion, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The narrative delves into a world where the lines between technology and humanity blur, raising profound questions about identity and freedom. This thought-provoking work is not just a story but a mirror held up to our own society, challenging readers to consider the path we are on and the choices we make. It's a must-read for those who enjoy speculative fiction that pushes the limits of imagination.

Reviews
Bene's Pen · 2020-07-05
intriguing 3.50

The historical perspective offered in the book is intriguing, but the negative effects of the premise are also explored in depth.

They appreciate the intriguing historical perspective that the author brings to the premise of Empire. The book delves into the long-term implications of the American Empire's growth, providing a thought-provoking analysis. However, the reviewer also considers the baleful effects that this premise brings, making it a nuanced read. The balance between the intriguing historical context and the negative consequences creates a complex narrative that is worth exploring.

Quick quotes

    This review will first discuss the intriguing historical perspective that Card brings to the premise, then consider the baleful effects that ...

    The book comes to a conclusion that is both satisfying and open-ended.

    The narration by Stefan Rudniki is excellent though you might find ...

Military History · 2016-11-16
superb 4.00

The story is engaging and moves quickly, with a surprising twist at the end that is both evident and unexpected.

This reviewer found Empire to be a superb story that moves along at a brisk pace. The narrative is engaging, and the twist at the end is both ex post facto evident and surprising, adding a layer of complexity to the plot. They appreciate the author's ability to weave together a compelling story that keeps the reader interested from start to finish. The book's conclusion is both satisfying and thought-provoking, making it a worthy read for fans of political fiction.

Quick quotes

    As always, 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 book comes to a conclusion that is both satisfying and open-ended.

    The narration by Stefan Rudniki is excellent though you might find ...

SFFWorld · 2007-01-15
poor 1.00

The book is criticized for its implausible plot, uninteresting characters, and outdated technology. It is considered a weak addition to the author's body of work.

This reviewer had a tough time with Empire, finding the plot implausible and the characters stale and uninteresting. The technology described in the book is almost laughable, which detracts from the overall experience. They feel that this book doesn't measure up to the standards set by the author's other works, making it a poor choice for fans looking for a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    This is a poor book; the plot is implausible, the characters stale and uninteresting, the technology almost laughable and the ...

    In summary, this is a poor book; the plot is implausible, the characters stale and uninteresting, the technology almost laughable and the ...

    The American Empire has grown too fast, and the fault lines at home are stressed to the brink.

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