Other than that, I wouldn't necessarily say that this is a bad attempt at hard science fiction, just a really mediocre one. Most of the cast of characters is passable, but the writing leaves a lot to be desired. Rather than trying to end each chapter on a high note, the authors instead usually break with a character chatting or brushing their hair or something. Most of the dialogue doesn't really sound like people who are actually facing a dangerous crisis. However, I can't deny that the central idea of alien nanotechnology is pretty cool, and the climactic sequence is well written, although some of the mysteries set forth earlier aren't really explained satisfactorily. I'm feeling generous today, so three stars.


Wild ride on teeeeeny little cars   September 10, 2001
George Baxter (Palo Alto, CA USA)
3 out of 4 found this review helpful

This was a very fun story. Nanotechnology has always been a fascinating topic.. the potentials are amazing. Harnessing a story around the technology is sure to be a lot of fun.

And Anderson/Beason do not disappoint. Their basic approach is that mankind is on the edge of understanding nanotech, but not there yet.. and this can lead to disastrous consequences. When they are presented with alien nanotech.. and these aliens DEFINITELY know what their doing.. our ignorance and initial fumblings create a uninterrupted tension.

I'm a sucker for conclusive endings.. and this story doesn't have one... and I applaud them for it. It fits the story. You'll
enjoy the story, don't worry.


Best Pure Science Fiction book I've read in years.   June 7, 2000
Joey Capps
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Good physics. Good biology. Solid Science in general. Heck of a story too. Page turner. Could not put it down.


Wonderful Hard SF look at nanotechnology, very vivid.   October 9, 1999
1 out of 4 found this review helpful

Two bad this isn't in print