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There are any number of things not quite right with this book. The characters aren't as fully fleshed out as they could be. The science bits are a bit odd at times. The 'interstellar' politics are laughably simple. Why then, is it such a blast to read? Well, the pacing is flawless. Despite the fact that the novel isn't saturated with action or adventure scenes it reads surprisingly fast for a novel exceeding 500 pages. That, in itself, is an accomplishment. Also, there is a rather fascinating mystery at the heart of the story.

I'm thinking that perhaps this is the kind of novel that would be a good read for younger readers wanting to dip into the sci-fi genre. It's typical Timothy Zahn fare, and he is a pretty popular author, especially in the Star Wars universe. The novel does provoke one or two thoughtful moments as well, especially concerning free thinking and the effects of fear on the human psyche.

Lots of fun.