Book Review: The Engineer (The Last Horizon, #2) by Will Wight
As a reader who thrives on a mix of adventure, complex characters, and a sprinkle of fantastical lore, Will Wight’s The Engineer immediately grabbed my attention. Having recently explored the depths of excitement and emotion in The Rascor Plains by Phil Tucker, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the continuation of The Last Horizon series. But boy, did Wight deliver a thrilling experience that took everything I liked about the first book, The Captain, and cranked it up to a dazzling 11!
Now, let’s get real for a moment. My initial judgement of The Captain left much to be desired—a solid 3.5/5, I admitted my disappointment. I entered with high expectations, unwittingly comparing it to a different realm entirely. After some thoughtful reflection, I acknowledge that my premature dismissal stemmed from anticipating a different story. Enter The Engineer, which surprised me in all the best ways.
One of the standout elements for me was the introduction of the Advocates and Stormhammer. Forget the Iron Legion—their complex motivations made them far more compelling. Here was a cast of characters that felt straight out of a superhero fever dream. Stormhammer is the embodiment of the ‘Evil Superman’ trope, and while that might sound cliché, his genuine belief in his cause and his deep care for his wife grounded him beautifully. It’s that nuanced touch that transforms a villain into an unforgettable character, and Stormhammer may just be one of Wight’s finest creations.
The crew of the Last Horizon, each member brimming with distinct abilities and rich backstories, continually enchanted me. Their dynamics remind me of those beloved prequel characters whose tales you long to hear. Will expertly weaves together diverse genres and personalities, culminating in moments that genuinely feel monumental. I loved diving deeper into Mel’s character. Learning about her history with Varic added layers to their relationship—one that I fervently hope continues to develop in future books.
In terms of world-building, Wight truly outdid himself this time. The intricate details of the factions and vast landscapes of the universe opened my eyes to the potential for future conflicts and narratives. Each new piece of lore about the D’niss or the Perfected had my imagination racing. It’s clear Wight has created a living universe rich with possibilities, and I found myself eagerly anticipating what’s next.
However, I do have some reservations. Varic’s overpowering abilities still present a mild annoyance for me. Despite his strengths, the narrative often makes it too easy for him, diminishing some of the tension. It makes me wary of the escalation of threats to come; one can only handle so many universe-spanning battles before the stakes feel overblown. I trust Wight’s ability to navigate these concerns, but it’s something to keep an eye on.
To wrap it up, I wholeheartedly recommend The Engineer to fans of vibrant character dynamics, rich worldbuilding, and an exhilarating plot that keeps you on your toes. If you enjoy stories that blend adventure with moral complexity and a dash of superhero flair, then this book is certainly worth your time. For me, it’s a delightful reminder that sometimes, expectations can be delightfully surpassed. I left this reading experience feeling both fulfilled and excited for what’s to come. Happy reading!
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