A fun military sci-fi debut.

"Fallow" is a book that wears its influences on its sleeve. If you're at all familiar with the pillars of speculative fiction that were embedded into popular culture throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s via things like the "Alien" and "Predator" film franchises and "Stargate," you're going to recognize a lot of the themes and ideas present within it. Case in point, John Carpenter's "The Thing" is directly referenced early on as two of its main characters arrive at the remote Norwegian archeological research site where the bulk of the story takes place. That's not to say "Fallow" doesn't bring anything new or distinguishing to the table at various points throughout its duration but I believe it's fair to say that experienced science-fiction readers are likely to find much of it more than a little familiar. Fortunately, its more well-worn tropes and concepts are generally well done, with prose I found satisfying and engaging for the most part.

That said, there were some noteworthy instances of, what I'd call, excessive repetition of certain elements, at times in very close proximity to one another, that I found somewhat distracting and detrimental to the overall flow and pacing of the story. There were also a few minor incongruities that eagle-eyed readers may spot that might similarly threaten their immersion in the tale. Finally, it's worth noting that there are many instances of very convenient or largely implausible occurrences, particularly as things ramp up near the end that sticklers for realism and "authenticity" may take issue with.

Still, for me "Fallow" was ultimately a solid and worthwhile reading experience, especially with it being the author's first novel. I therefore wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to those new to the genre, or fans of military sci-fi that oozes with nostalgia while delivering enough deviations to keep things interesting.