It was a journey that began with Hyperion.The amazing tales of the seven pilgrims will forever leave it’s footprint in my mind. That said,you do not need to read Hyperion to appreciate the fascinating world Simmons created with Endymion. It does however give insight on why things are the way they are in Endymion.

Endymion is, on its own,a thoroughly exciting read – I almost did not want the tale to end.Thank goodness there is still Rise of Endymion. If I was not a fan of sci-fi before, I am now.

Endymion is not Hyperion. If you don’t treat it is a sequel, but rather as a new book with Hyperion as a background, then it is a throughly fascinating and enjoyable experience.
Simmons is a master of imagination. The future he creats is highly believable and probable. Humans evolve and remain entirely human. Technological advances are a blessing and a curse at the same time. And the characters are all endearing.
Rise of Endymion is definitely on my list of books to read