If you're a history buff, a steampunk enthusiast, or a die-hard fan of H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds, this authorized sequel will scratch that alternate-history itch. Stephen Baxter meticulously channels the style and atmosphere of early 20th-century sci-fi, building a grim, expansive world full of clever nods to classic literature and real-world figures. The Martians have evolved, the stakes are global, and the world-building is top-notch. Fans of detailed world histories, thoughtful what-ifs, and those longing to revisit Wells' universe with a modern twist will enjoy the ride.

Who May Not Like This Book:

This isn't a book for readers seeking edge-of-your-seat action or swift pacing; some found it slow, overly descriptive, and weighed down by lengthy exposition. The complex narrative structure - with multiple points of view and plenty of 'telling' rather than 'showing' - keeps many events at arm's length, and it can be hard to connect emotionally to the characters. Some also felt the prose tried too hard to mimic the original, resulting in stilted dialogue or jargon that may confuse modern readers. If you're looking for a fast-paced, modern sci-fi thriller, you might find this one a slog.

A thoughtful, deeply-researched tribute to H.G. Wells that shines in world-building but struggles with pacing and narrative momentum. Best for fans of the original or lovers of literary alternate history.

About:

'The Massacre of Mankind' by Stephen Baxter is a sequel to H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds'. The story is set fourteen years after the original Martian invasion, where Earth has advanced technologically by studying abandoned Martian equipment. The Martians return with a second invasion, this time with an intent for total domination of the Earth. The narrative follows the protagonist, Julie Elphinstone, and other characters as they try to find a way to stop the Martians before it's too late. The book explores themes of invasion, adaptation, and the resilience of humanity in the face of a superior foe.

The writing style of the book is reminiscent of H.G. Wells' original work, capturing the terrifying and intimidating nature of the Martians. The story is told from the perspective of Julie Elphinstone, providing a unique viewpoint on the events unfolding as the Martians launch a new wave of attacks across the globe, showcasing the struggle of humanity against a formidable enemy.

Characters:

Characters are prevalent but lack depth and relatability, often failing to engage the reader's interest.

Writing/Prose:

The prose strives to capture Wells's style but often veers into lengthy descriptions that diminish narrative impact.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative depicts a second Martian invasion of Earth with themes of historical alteration and societal impact, but suffers from pacing and lack of character motivation.

Setting:

The setting is a militarized early 20th century, highlighting the aftermath of alien invasions and political shifts, adding depth to the narrative.

Pacing:

Pacing is slow and uneven, with a tedious buildup that frustrates many readers before action finally unfolds.

To those of us who survived it, the First Martian War of the early twentieth century was a cataclysm. And yet, to minds far greater than our own and older even than the Martians, minds who regard our ...

Notes:

The Massacre of Mankind is a sequel to H.G. Wells' The War of the Worlds.

The story takes place in the early 1920s, 14 years after the first Martian invasion.

The Martians have improved their strategy for a new invasion, making it larger and more organized.

The book features characters from Wells' original work, including Walter Jenkins, the narrator of the first book, who is now a recluse.

The narrative is primarily told from the perspective of Julie Elphinstone, a journalist and former sister-in-law of Jenkins.

The sequel explores a world where the British government has become more militarized and oppressive after the first invasion.

Baxter includes alternate history elements, such as Britain being occupied by Germany during World War I.

The writing style aims to emulate Wells' Victorian prose, which some readers found overly complex and slow-paced.

Over 200 pages into the novel pass before the Martians invade again, leading to complaints about the slow buildup.

Baxter incorporates a lot of historical research and nods to earlier science fiction works, including references to figures like Edison and Churchill.

The Martians are portrayed as ruthless and intelligent adversaries, similar to their depiction in Wells' original tale.

The novel includes commentary on societal issues, such as colonialism and the impacts of war on human relationships.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of war, violence, alien invasion, and possible distress over the portrayal of suffering and adaptation under duress.

From The Publisher:

It has been 14 years since the Martians invaded England. The world has moved on, always watching the skies but content that we know how to defeat the Martian menace. Machinery looted from the abandoned capsules and war-machines has led to technological leaps forward. The Martians are vulnerable to earth germs. The Army is prepared.

So when the signs of launches on Mars are seen, there seems little reason to worry. Unless you listen to one man, Walter Jenkins, the narrator of Wells' book. He is sure that the Martians have learned, adapted, understood their defeat.

He is right.

Thrust into the chaos of a new invasion, a journalist - sister-in-law to Walter Jenkins - must survive, escape and report on the war.

The Massacre of Mankind has begun

August 2017

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495 pages

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The Massacre of Mankind

Stephen Baxter

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