Micro review: 'Leviathan Falls' by James S. A. Corey

In its essence, 'Leviathan Falls', the ninth and final book of the series 'The Expanse', is a through and through science fiction novel. Over the past decade, 'The Expanse' has established itself as one of the best modern science fiction series. Its final book - Leviathan Falls - is laden with expectations. Further, the readers seek to get answers for several of their questions: Which of humanity’s factions will emerge triumphant? Will the Rocinante‘s crew emerge unscathed? And will the mysterious aliens who wiped out the ring builders return to do the same to humanity?
"The Laconian Empire has fallen, setting the thirteen hundred solar systems free from the rule of Winston Duarte.But the ancient enemy that killed the gate builders is awake, and the war against our universe has begun again," reads the book's blurb.
"As nearly unimaginable forces prepare to annihilate all human life, Holden and a group of unlikely allies discover a last, desperate chance to unite all of humanity, with the promise of a vast galactic civilization free from wars, factions, lies, and secrets if they win. But the price of victory may be worse than the cost of defeat," it adds.
Coming to the structure of 'Leviathan Falls', the action of the novel is split between various viewpoints. Some characters make a comeback when the readers never expected them to. As per readers' reviews, chapters 'The Dreamer' and 'The Lighthouse and the Keeper' are the most interesting ones in the novel. However, that doesn't mean the other chapters lack merit. They will offer the readers more than they expect.
However, despite the well-structured plot, the characters drag the pace down hugely. The events get constantly interrupted as the books cut back for the backstories, introspections, and emotional content of the characters. Also, between the scientific explanations and emotional content, the plot itself becomes secondary - one that moves at a glacial pace culminating in a quick and momentous climax.
What do critics say about the book?
This is the future the way it was supposed to be - Wall Street Journal
Interplanetary adventure the way it ought to be written - George R. R. Martin on Leviathan Wakes
A thrill ride of a tale... This is a deeply satisfying and fitting conclusion to one of the best space opera series in many years - Booklist