Sun Eater

Pros

• Grand, epic scale that fits the 'perfect definition' of a space opera.
• Thought-provoking exploration of themes like transhumanism, theology, and government.
• Unique storytelling that spans thousands of years, making characters feel mythological.
• Significant improvement in quality and stakes starting with the second and third books.

Cons

• The first book is widely considered slow and difficult to get through.
• Polarizing prose that frequently interrupts dialogue with long, philosophical tangents.
• The protagonist (Hadrian) is described by some as tedious or lacking agency.
• Heavy reliance on quotations and references to classic literature, which some view as derivative or unearned.

Caveats

• Readers often suggest that you must reach the second book ('Howling Dark') to truly understand the series' potential.
• Interpersonal dynamics and side characters are frequently cited as a weak point compared to the world-building.
• The prose style is a 'love it or hate it' factor that determines whether a reader will enjoy the series.

Best for

• Fans of 'Dune', 'Hyperion', or 'A Song of Ice and Fire'.
• Readers who enjoy 'literary' sci-fi with a focus on philosophical and societal interrogation.
• Those looking for a long-form series with a massive chronological scope.

Avoid if

• You prefer fast-paced action over dense, eloquent prose.
• You are bothered by protagonists who quote classic literature extensively.
• You have a low tolerance for slow-burn world-building in the opening volume of a series.