"Nothing could be simpler. The lock is ignorance. . . Tomorrow we'll unlock it with knowledge."

This was an enjoyable read all around. Tied very closely to the dramas, which seem worth checking out, too.

Worth noting is that though many science fiction novels eschew travelling faster than light, this one follows that convention but also makes use of it in several situations to further the plot, time, or both.

There are several things that stuck in my craw - scientific observations that seemed nonsensical, a few minor things that seemed out of character and one or two little jarring things that made me pause a little. Nothing overly incongruous, and I was very impressed by the development of Elka and Bran. There were signs, but subtle and easily overlooked, which gave the whole thing a much more sinister feel (which was of course the intention).

There's something about the English Sci-fi I've read that can't quite compel me to give it a five-star rating. be it that I'm so hooked on the overseas style or that there's somethingg a little stilted about the British offerings I've yet to determine.

nevertheless a solid, worthy duo of novels, neatly bound together with a warm and respectful intro from the author. Top class reading, old chaps.