For me, these books are in the rare category of 'wait I didn't know it was allowed to come up with a story _this good_'. I envy all those that have yet to read it for the first time.

Me too. It's phenomenal, especially the first book and the pilgrims' stories. Such a moving mix of religious mystics, science fiction and the dreaded AI. The second one builds up the tension and the last 2... are good.

Spoilers, but the excerpt posted here [0] of Aenea was one of my favorite scenes from Hyperion Cantos. "Choose again" as a gentle reminder to reevaluate our beliefs and structures, and to really choose, not just go along with whatever. You can always choose again.

[0] https://raccaldin36.livejournal.com/1849917.html

One of the most eerie experiences in my life: I was just finishing the second-to-last book in the series and had a kidney stone. Talk about empathizing with a character...

I find very difficult deciding about my all time favourites on anything, but the Hyperion books are pretty close to it.

Not sure about the Endymion ones.

I love Hyperion! This year I read The Terror by Dan Simmons which is historical fiction but also really good!

I have read the first one many times. Such a great read, will have to tackle the rest of the series next year.

Read the first two this year. Absolutely incredible and now some of my all time favorite sci-fi.

I read the second two books this year and was unfortunately disappointed.

First two were so fun but I think I got hung up on some of the more clumsy stylistic parts of the Endymion books. I guess my “trust” in the author comes from the style and tropes they use, and if I they lose my trust none of the deeper parts resonate. Glad you enjoyed!

Such a good read.