Not with a Bang

 

Not with a Bang by Temi Oh
7/14/26; 352 pages
S&S/ Saga Press

Not with a Bang by Temi Oh is a recommended domestic drama set during a cataclysmic event that may signal the end of the world. This is very, very light on the science fiction, heavy on the dysfunctional family drama.

Marcus and Kimona (Kim) Minton have four daughters, Aaliyah (Lia), Briar, Tanice and Chantale. After losing his job, Marcus focused on becoming a survivalist, digging a doomsday bunker, stockpiling supplies, and having drills preparing for the end. When a planet, named Hero, is reported headed to pass by the Earth, the family plans to watch it pass, but are mainly planning for Aaliyah's wedding. When the planet comes close and the magnetic event happens, they are split up and try to make their way home or find each other and Briar joins a a UFO doomsday cult.

For those who enjoy domestic dramas this will likely work on some level for you. For those who like the "science" in their science fiction, pass this one by. There's not much science in it. This novel leans heavily into the small actions of the characters while basically ignoring the Big Actions/Events. As a fan of hard science fiction, I was disappointed. The big magnetic event happens, but not in a totally credible manner depicting what would have realistically happened if that specific event occurred. (For example, there were still houses.) After mainly focusing on the Mintons running around, then, late in the novel, there's an information dump that could have been handled so much better, perhaps with chapters actually following specialists and scientists throughout the plot. It might have served the plot better if the big event was some natural disaster.

If you enjoy family dramas more than science fiction, then this might work for you. What we have here is the story of the Mintons unfold in multiple POVs. The chapters are following the countdown to the event and then the days after along with the character being followed. As the family makes their way through life before and after the event, the focus is on the minutiae of their thoughts and actions. At times the switching between characters felt chaotic and messy and there was never a real sense of cohesion in the plot. It likely didn't help that none of the characters were very likable or appealing. 2.5 rounded up when required.

Not with a Bang will best be enjoyed by those who like dysfunctional family dramas set during a world changing event. Thanks to Saga Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.