Alpha Wave

In a series that has run as long as Deathlands, most of the readers are tired of the "companions encounter evil baron, companions defeat evil baron" plot line. It has been done to death, and usually includes some kind of gladiatorial game at some point. Alpha Wave is a fresh departure and a strong entry in the series. The bulk of the book takes place on board a moving train, with Jak captured and Krysty mortally impaired by a mysterious illness. The purpose behind the train remains a mystery right up until the climax, with much of the action involving the remaining companions attempting to remain hidden on the train while the search for their missing friend. The action scenes are crisp and exciting, and the characterizations are surprisingly deep. Doc in particular is more, um, "Doc-ish" than he has been in quite some time, which was very nice. I will avoid spoilers and simply say that this is a great read that shows that there is still life in this series, and it doesn't involve gladiator pits.

A good read and a book that breathes life into the Deathlands saga. The cover tells you everything you need to know - a postapocalyptic western set almost entirely on a speeding train. There are some nice twists and some very subtle links to the Outlanders series, which shows the writer really knows what he's doing. The book rattles along at a good pace and will keep you turning the pages right to the end. Good stuff!