Reviews for Halo: Ghosts of Onyx

The average rating for Halo: Ghosts of Onyx based on 2 reviews is 4 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2012-06-30 00:00:00 Chris Little Ghosts of Onyx is a bit of a return to form for Nylund. I found the characterisation in Halo: First Strike a bit tepid, especially that of Spartan John-117 (Master Chief). Ghosts is reminiscent of Halo: The Fall of Reach in some aspects, notably the training of a new generation of Spartans. The book also dispenses with featuring Master Chief as the protagonist. It's a fairly solid novel, and a continuation of the Halo story-line, albeit parallel to the arc featuring Master Chief. I suppose it has always been the intention that the novels serve as a supplement to the game, and that becomes apparent here. There are sequences where the Covenant are being fought on Earth, but I can't seem to recall any real back story as to how they got there (I was under the impression that their efforts were thwarted in First Strike). Turns out it isn't the same Prophet (or San 'Shyuum) as the one responsible for the threat to Earth in First Strike, and that most of the events leading up to this scenario was dealt with in the second Halo game, in conjunction with the previous novels. The same applies to the events depicted here concerning the Great Schism and the subsequent fall-out between the Sangheili and the Jiralhanae. This is only a problem if, like me, you are reading the novels but not playing the game. And if, like me, you let too much time pass between reading them. The best way to read these books is probably in rapid succession, unless you have an eidetic memory. I take note of the reviewers who dismiss this as derivative tie-in fiction. They're not wrong, although I disagree with some of the negative feedback. A lot of thought has gone into fleshing out the Halo universe, and if you can suspend disbelief for a time there is no reason you shouldn't be able to enjoy this. Bear in mind, though, it wouldn't be completely inaccurate to label this as Young Adult Military Science Fiction. Also, I refuse to believe that an author like Greg Bear would associate himself with sub-standard derivative fiction (see Halo: Cryptum). I will agree that there isn't a lot of tactical consideration given to military engagements and that most of the action consists of Spartans wading in with all guns blazing and slaughtering Covenant by the dozen (this, fortunately, has been toned down in this novel to make room for fleet engagements, which is a welcome reprieve). The Forerunner technology on display showcases quite a few of the ol' Sci-Fi conventions, such as artificial planets, Dyson Spheres and, most obviously, the Halo structures (on loan from Ringworld - although Larry Niven's structure is much larger) so there are some sense-of-wonder moments as well. In conclusion: despite its shortcomings, Ghosts of Onyx is one of the better Halo instalments and actually quite a bit of fun. Also: the novel introduces SPI (Semi-Powered Infiltration) armour in addition to the MJOLNIR armour.

Review # 2 was written on 2018-11-19 00:00:00 Sharon Acton Three books, two games, and one graphic novel collection into my journey through the "Halo" saga, and I can confidently say: I'm in. I'm so. Freaking. In. There's so much about this universe that's great, from the deep, carefully laid-out mythology, to the satisfying way that the broader story flows and builds upon itself across mediums, to the oh-so-tangible world-building and construction - this FEELS like a universe that you could live in. "Ghosts of Onyx," Eric Nylund's third (and in my opinion, best) Halo-novel, takes all of these great trappings and wraps them around a story that's thematically interesting and genuinely compelling, filled with characters that we actually come to like and care about. The fact that not one of the "Halo" novels I've read thus far has felt like a cash-in, but rather, a distinct piece of canon that expands and develops the underlying lore of the series, is a testament not only to Nylund's storytelling capabilities, but also to the creative ambition of the team over at Bungie; they fact that they were actually willing to dig into and broaden their universe through their tie-in media - as opposed to just tell simple, easy-to-swallow stories that exist solely to cash in on the brand name - is beyond impressive. I'm beyond bummed to see that - at least for now - this looks to be the last full-length "Halo" novel that Nylund's written, but I'm also excited to see what other writers will bring to such a well-honed and distinct universe. Onward to Halo 3.