Review: The Hittite — Ben Bova
In this informal YouTube review, Dr. John A. King discusses Ben Bova’s novel The Hittite. He acknowledges his general appreciation for Bova’s science‑fiction work but criticizes this particular book for its craft shortcomings. The reviewer’s main complaint is the excessive repetition of plot points—specifically the repeated reminders that the protagonist’s wife and children have been kidnapped— which he finds boring and unnecessary. He argues that the author should trust the reader’s memory and employ ‘show, not tell’ techniques, using exposition sparingly. King also blames the editor for not tightening the narrative. He rates the book poorly, saying he would give it “half bollocks” or even “full bollocks,” and states he would not read it again. The tone is conversational, colloquial, and candid, ending with a light‑hearted sign‑off.
