The Temporal Void

Holidays. The only time where I can read or "dream with open eyes" (text from a bookmark). This year, it was "The Temporal Void" by Peter F. Hamilton. It's the sequel to "The Dreaming Void" (my review).

Again, the series is coming along great (which Peter can probably see on your bank account :) Well deserved if you ask me). I like the rich characters, the story is sound and believable. Recommendation: Buy. Now.

There were three spots which I didn't "buy" in "The Temporal Void", places where I dropped from the story and thought "WTF?" Note: Only mild spoilers below; you can read on even if you haven't read the book, yet.

1. So Aaron is stranded on Hanko, the planet is about to blow up and the Navy scout is about to pick him up. After being warned that he's dangerous, having the best sensors military money can buy, they let him simply walk on their ship battle ready and kill them. I mean, OK, shit happens and maybe these was the Omega ship with the best morons the Navy could find and such ... but ... nah, really :) With instant comm available at all times, no one is watching this important operation? There isn't even a recording? Didn't buy that one.

   The same happened in the first part when Aaron broke into the storage vault to claim Inigos memories. Why did you place the guards *inside* (where all that delicate stuff will break if they ever would have to engage someone)? Why not place them on the other side of the vault door where they can pummel any intruder against a foot or two of solid steel, without any cover?

2. Edeard finds his childhood friend Salrana in the clutches of Ranalee and leaves her there. I never thought he would be the character to leave someone behind. He knows only bad can come from this; I mean it's only the tenth time this happens, he got to learn something, right? If he dragged Salrana away, the girl would be mad but he could leave her with the Pythia and look for a solution if she doesn't know one. If all else fails, he could simply blackmail Ranalee into fixing what she did. So I accept that he's tired and worn out and all that but this just didn't fit.
3. Paula and the quantumbuster. So this thing really distorts spacetime to wreak havoc with matter. How can she get away when space is so twisted? How about just nailing her in place using the ships in orbit and blowing up the station the traditional way?

Other than that, the story is the usual perfect piece of work from Peter. I've posted the text above in Peter's inbox; should I get a reply, I'll post it here.