Justin's Notes
Mar. 21, 2025
Historically, I have posted a reading recap over a given amount of time. I have decided that I no longer want to write about books that way.
I found myself waiting to publish a post only if I read a certain amount of books, or choosing what to read based off of length to get enough books in before publishing. It felt like I was forcing myself to hit a quota, but in the end I just want to read what I want. I also believe I have grown in my writing and have more to say in general about what I read. I don't know why I originally put these rules and limits on myself to begin with, but I no longer want them.
Anyway, you didn't need or ask for an explanation, but there you go. Now enjoy my thoughts on the finale of what is now one of my favorite science fiction journeys.
The Remembrance of Earth's Past Trilogy is incredible. I am in awe at how this series made me think. Liu's ability to create such a densely scientific series that felt digestible, while also making me feel so many emotions throughout the book and series as a whole, is an incredible feat. The science feels plausible. It feels realistic. Look, I understand that we are nowhere near what is described in this book or any book in this series. That said, it all feels like we could get there. This story is humanity on our Earth with advanced space travel, new ways to combat the passing of time, and everyday technologies that considerably change the way human life is lived. If I am honest, this book makes me borderline anxious just thinking of what science and technology could reach in my lifetime.
I love the difference in action between this series and what I am used to in fantasy books. A story altering event will happen, and it is written like you are reading a newspaper article. It is presented as factual, often times with no emotion tied to the event. I love it. It feels refreshing not having to have every second drawn out and dramatized, but instead focusing on the facts and the impact of the event on the characters and the world.
For some spoiler-free thoughts on the plot, I really loved that we fell back into some of The Dark Forest (book two's) timelines and events, seen from a different perspective. I loved Luo Ji in the second book, so seeing the connections between him and Cheng Xin, the main character in book three, was fantastic. The continued development of Luo Ji through the eyes and actions of Cheng Xin built both of these characters so well. Liu also weaved in a love story in this book so flawlessly and uniquely that I really enjoyed it. It was somewhat unexpected, and the way Liu capped it at the end was so well done. I really enjoyed the themes of consequences of actions and perceived responsibilities, specifically with Cheng Xin. Not to mention the overall theme of the smallness and powerlessness of humanity in the grand scheme of the universe.
I still stand by this series being challenging for beginning sci-fi readers. That said, if you enjoy sci-fi or want to get into it, this trilogy is a must-read in my opinion. I really enjoyed these books.
