Exploring Isolation and Identity in Exiles by Mason Coile

Author: Mason Coile

Publisher: Penguin Group Putnam

Rating: 2.5★

In the world of science fiction literature, few themes resonate as strongly as isolation and identity. Mason Coile's novel Exiles delves into these concepts in a riveting way, showcasing Dana Gold and her crewmates as they embark on an ambitious mission to establish humanity's first colony on Mars. What begins as a hopeful journey soon transforms into a gripping psychological horror that challenges not only the characters’ fate but the essence of who they are.

The Premise

Exiles opens with a captivating scenario: Dana and her two crewmates arrive on Mars, only to find their base partially destroyed, one of their robot companions missing, and the other two robots have locked down the base and have established disturbing beliefs. The tension swiftly rises as the two remaining robots present conflicting accounts of what transpired, raising suspicion and fear among the crew. With no chance of returning to Earth, they must solve the mystery of their bleak situation. This intriguing setup promises excitement, yet does it deliver on that promise?

Character Development

Initially, I felt connected to the characters, but my engagement waned, particularly with Dana Gold. As the only female crew member, her unique viewpoint could have added depth to the story. Unfortunately, she often felt like a mere plot device, lacking a compelling backstory that would allow readers to relate to her. Her motivations and past experiences could have been more fleshed out to make her character more relatable. A deeper exploration of her struggles with isolation could have enhanced the emotional stakes, making readers more invested in her journey.

Pacing and Structure

Pacing emerged as a key issue during my read. At just 224 pages, Exiles feels rushed, providing little opportunity for meaningful character development. The central mystery surrounding the damaged base and the lost robot kept me intrigued; however, the hasty plot made it challenging to truly care about the outcome. When a narrative explores who we are without distractions, the pacing should allow for depth. Unfortunately, the rapid progression overshadowed this exploration, limiting its emotional impact.

Themes of Isolation

Coile's examination of isolation is fascinating but ultimately feels underdeveloped. The narrative hints at significant questions about identity, self-reflection, and the human condition in extremes. Without a firm emotional connection to the characters, these themes did not resonate as strongly as they could have. I found myself contemplating the reality of being alone on a hostile planet, but the story's execution didn't fully engage with this existential theme, leaving me longing for a richer exploration.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Exiles by Mason Coile presents a gripping premise centered on themes of isolation and identity. While the elements of psychological horror and the Mars mystery provide an engaging foundation, the execution leaves room for improvement.

If you're a fan of sci-fi novels that approach the challenges of space exploration and artificial intelligence, you may find value in this work. However, those seeking a profound character connection and deeper engagement with identity might find it lacking.

Thank you Penguin Group Putnam for an eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.      

A barren Martian landscape, emphasizing isolation