How does the setting serve as a motif in the novel, Alien Citadel?

The setting of Alien Citadel blends two classic science fiction motifs: the terrors of a postnuclear-holocaust world and the struggle against alien invaders. By bringing humanity back to a pretechnology level of existence, Hill sets his small band of protagonist characters up against almost impossible odds in their battle against the Slavers.

Yet by doing so, they are able to express their dignity and their hope. And there is always the possibility that they will win. Like most dystopian settings, the world of Alien Citadel is innately more interesting than a Utopia because it offers the chance for its characters to fight against evil.