A murder mystery unfolds during a high school reunion on a luxury space resort, where the elite vie for spots in a Mars settlement while Earth faces environmental collapse. The story delves into themes of class struggle, privilege, corruption, and the consequences of societal inequality in a futuristic setting.

Reader Review Summary

Escape Velocity is a genre-blending tour de force that seamlessly weaves together elements of mystery, thriller, and science fiction into a compelling social commentary on wealth inequality and the erosion of humanity in the pursuit of power and status. Set against the backdrop of a luxurious space resort hosting a high school reunion for the ultra-wealthy elite, the novel presents a chilling vision of a future where Earth is rendered uninhabitable, and the privileged few vie for coveted spots in a Mars colony, leaving the rest of humanity behind.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its multifaceted narrative, which skillfully intertwines the perspectives of various characters, each with their own intricate backstories, motivations, and secrets. The four central characters – Ava, Laz, Sloane, and Henry – are masterfully crafted, each embodying the complexities and moral ambiguities that come with immense privilege and power. Despite their affluence and apparent success, they are deeply flawed individuals, grappling with past traumas, family secrets, and the weight of their own actions, making them simultaneously compelling and repulsive.

Manibo's writing is razor-sharp, infusing the narrative with a sense of urgency and tension that keeps the reader hooked from the very first page. The pacing is masterful, seamlessly transitioning between the present-day events on the space station and the characters' rich histories, slowly unveiling layers of intrigue and deception. The author's ability to craft compelling mysteries within the overarching narrative is a testament to his storytelling prowess, leaving readers constantly guessing and hungry for more revelations.

One of the standout elements of the novel is its unflinching critique of late-stage capitalism and the insidious effects of wealth disparity. Manibo doesn't shy away from depicting the callous disregard and self-serving attitudes of the ultra-rich, while also highlighting the struggles and resilience of the working class, whose lives are inextricably intertwined with those they serve. The juxtaposition of the opulent space resort and the harsh realities of life on a dying Earth serves as a powerful metaphor for the widening chasm between the haves and the have-nots.

Notably, Escape Velocity excels in its representation and exploration of diverse identities and experiences. Manibo, himself a queer Filipino immigrant, infuses the narrative with a rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ characters, racial and ethnic diversity, and complex discussions of gender and sexuality. The novel's casual yet nuanced portrayal of queerness and intersectionality is both refreshing and enlightening, offering readers a glimpse into perspectives often underrepresented in speculative fiction.

Throughout the novel, Manibo weaves thought-provoking commentary on topics ranging from colonialism and immigration to the ethics of genetic engineering and the commodification of human life. The book's ambitious scope is matched by its skillful execution, resulting in a narrative that is equal parts entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

While some readers may find the novel's ambitious multitude of themes and plotlines somewhat overwhelming or disjointed at times, the overall impact of Escape Velocity is undeniable. It is a bold, uncompromising exploration of humanity's darkest tendencies and the potential for redemption, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Manibo's debut novel, The Sleepless, hinted at his considerable talent, but Escape Velocity solidifies his position as a vital voice in contemporary speculative fiction, unafraid to confront difficult truths and push the boundaries of storytelling.