Legacy (Russell novel)

Legacy is a science fiction novel by James P. Hogan, published in 1998. It is part of Hogan's Giants series, sometimes referred to as the "Giants' Star" or "Inherit the Stars" series, and functions as a direct sequel to the previous installment, The Multiplex Man.

The novel picks up shortly after the events of The Multiplex Man. The central theme revolves around the ramifications of past events in the solar system's history, particularly concerning the fate of the Giants and the Daratians, and the technological and societal inheritance – or "legacy" – they left behind. Humans are now confronted with the ongoing challenges and opportunities presented by this legacy, including advanced technology and unresolved conflicts.

The plot explores the scientific and philosophical questions raised by the discoveries made in previous books. These include the nature of reality, the potential for time travel or manipulation, and the ethical responsibilities that come with wielding advanced technologies. A key storyline involves understanding the motivations and ultimate fate of the Giants and Daratians, attempting to unravel the complex web of alliances and betrayals that ultimately led to their downfall.

Legacy continues Hogan's exploration of hard science fiction themes, emphasizing scientific accuracy and logical deduction as integral components of the narrative. The book contains detailed expositions on physics, cosmology, and engineering principles, aiming for a high degree of plausibility within the framework of the established fictional universe.