In a future where consciousness can be downloaded into new bodies, a salvage crew member must unravel a mystery involving assassins, space zombies, and a corporation threatening humanity's existence. The story explores themes of identity, gender, and immortality in a fast-paced space opera filled with action and intrigue.

Reader Review Summary

"Re-Coil" is a thrilling and imaginative science fiction novel that takes readers to the far future where humanity has achieved a form of immortality through "re-coiling" - the ability to download one's consciousness and memories into a new body after death. Set in a sprawling solar system full of space habitats and human colonies, the story follows Carter Langston, a deep-space salvage expert who wakes up in a new body after being killed, only to find himself caught up in a deadly conspiracy with stakes that threaten all of humanity.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its fascinating core premise of re-coiling and the myriad implications this technology has for human society and identity. Nicholas does an excellent job worldbuilding, exploring how concepts like gender, race, sexuality, and prejudices are radically transformed in a world where people cycle through different bodies over their immortal lives. The book deftly examines issues of bodily autonomy, body dysphoria, and the philosophies around what truly makes us who we are.

At the same time, "Re-Coil" is an unabashedly thrilling sci-fi adventure story full of high stakes, cinematic action sequences, and unexpected twists and turns. Nicholas strikes a nice balance between exploring heady concepts and delivering an propulsive, page-turning plot centered around a mysterious derelict ship, corporate intrigue, and a rogue artificial intelligence that achieves sentience with terrifying consequences. The dizzying pace and escalating threats keep the tension mounting all the way to the epic and satisfying climax.

The characters are also a high point, led by the gruff but compelling Carter Langston, whose dry inner monologue and reflections on immortality in a universe of disposable bodies provide some of the book's most interesting moments. His banter and chemistry with tech wiz Shay Chan crackles, especially when Shay is re-coiled into a male body she's uncomfortable with, allowing for sensitive and insightful examinations of gender identity. The addition of the enigmatic assassin Korben as a reluctant ally also enlivens the character dynamics.

While the hard sci-fi elements are light, Nicholas makes the setting feel grounded and relatively plausible through deft handwaving, and renders the incredible feats of his characters in thrilling, cinematic detail, be it hull-walking on derelict ships or battling reanimated space zombies with high-tech weaponry. The action choreography has a visceral, boots-on-the-ground intensity.

In the end, "Re-Coil" is a superbly entertaining and provocative novel, deftly fusing fascinating sci-fi concepts around identity with gripping action/adventure storytelling. It's a thought-provoking and deeply compelling vision of one potential path for the future of humanity among the stars. With well-drawn characters, brisk pacing, high-concept ideas explored in an accessible way, and nonstop thrills, "Re-Coil" easily stands among the most engrossing science fiction works in recent years. Those who enjoy intelligent yet unabashedly fun sci-fi tales will absolutely want to re-coil by picking this book up.