Project Hail Mary

Very cinematic from the first word and is quick-paced with a strong story structure. The clear (and clean) dual-timeline elements mixed with the first-person narrative allows the reader to be on the journey to putting together the pieces of the puzzle together along with the main character. And having this all play out within the backdrop of humanity hoping for the success of a planet-saving mission worked really well - just expect more of ‘first contact' dynamics than a sci-fi action-adventure story. There are some parts that get a bit too scientific, but it doesn't slow down the book and it is certainly outweighed by strong character development and solid dialogue.