Strong sci-fi. Fresh perspective on ideas of life's inevitability in the universe and gives the universe the physical breadth and depth most sci-fi is lacking. Terrifically detailed and suspenseful. McDevitt writes with scientifically supported plausibility within a fantasy environment. Characters are three dimensional, many layered and complex. The story is simple, yet satisfying; with imaginative plot twists that, rather than jolt you to the core, are satisfyingly fluid. Like the other books in the Priscilla Hutchins series, this is a book that was crafted and intelligently molded. McDevitt's work is that of a simple artistry. His style is much more akin to Asimov than to, say, William Gibson or Joe Haldeman.