The Soldier

In the thrilling start to Neal Asher's latest Polity series, humanity, artificial intelligences, and fearsome aliens vie for control over a dangerous solar system crafted by the ancient Jain race. An accretion disc brimming with deadly technology poses a threat to all sentient life, prompting both the Polity and the predatory prador to appoint Orlandine, a part-human, part-AI guardian, to oversee the perilous weapons platform. As she navigates this precarious situation with the help of a suspicious alien entity, a rogue android named Angel plots an audacious attack on the Polity, complicating the already tense power dynamics in the galaxy. This explosive narrative intertwines advanced technology, powerful weaponry, and enigmatic alien beings, setting the stage for a gripping adventure.