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Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Guardian by Cathy McCrumb is the final book in the Christian science fiction Children of the Consortium trilogy. In Recorder, the half-human, half-drone Recorder exists only to observe for the Consortium without interference, until a mission failure severs her implants. Gaining unexpected freedom, she must confront identity, choice, and what it truly means to be human. In Aberration, a virus strikes, forcing Recorder to return to her old crew and face the Consortium’s judgment. Tasked with confronting the outbreak’s origin, she risks everything to find a cure and protect those she cares for. Now, Recorder battles the virus from infiltrators as Thallasa goes silent. Stranded on Pallas, she and her allies must evade danger, forge new identities, uncover the truth, and plan a risky escape before time runs out. “I did not wish to return to being a functional Recorder. I wished to help the others.”
Guardian by Cathy McCrumb is a spectacular finale. I love that Recorder, now considered “aberrant,” still chooses to help others and live with dignity, highlighting the Christian belief in inherent human worth regardless of status (Genesis 1:27), even as she recognizes that she no longer fits her original purpose. The sociopolitical and dystopian hierarchies are at their best. The Consortium, Elders, and Recorders, and a clear delineation between societal castes and institutional control, show McCrumb's commitment to world-building. The unearthing of conspiracy, political corruption, and corporate bioweapon development reminds me of the great classics, like Brave New World. Still, it is the relationships that stand on their own, and Recorder’s intense relationships with others, namely Nate, Elliott, and Max, are shown rather than told during moments of crisis or care, making them feel earned and sincere. Overall, this is tightly written, immersive, powerful, and brilliant. Very, very highly recommended.
