The ships are the review's main route into the novel because their design and portrayal make them feel like actors in their own right. Warhammer 40,000's machine-spirit imagery helps describe the effect, although the novel does not literally give its vessels spirits. The comparison then moves to the distinct atmosphere associated with HMS Warspite, HMS Eskimo, HMCS Haida, and the preserved USS The Sullivans. Design, crew experience, service, and memory can give a warship a recognizable historic presence. Glynn Stewart's fictional vessels create a similar impression and offer readers a route between naval history and science fiction.
Chapter · 13:43-16:15
Warships as characters with a historic presence
The review connects the novel's vividly drawn ships with the distinct personalities associated with famous historical and preserved warships.