I think first contact scenarios are truly fascinating, so I expected that I will enjoy this book. Once I picked it up, I realized that the author has given a lot of thought to the world building and has created an intricate political plot line as well. This is when it became evident that even though the book has lots of action and fun (also funny) moments, it is also very serious, and I think the author was aiming for providing a very sophisticated story.

Numerous things in this book I really liked, from the characters' development to the aliens and their philosophies. As I already mentioned, the world building was a big part of the story as well. It is also well-written and even though the author often focuses on technical sides of how things operate, the writing is not too dry or boring.

I think this is the sort of book that will stay with me for a while as I will continue to digest it. It is definitely packed with ideas!

In a way, this is perhaps exactly what I needed to read. There is a war in my home country, and daily global news are, well, the way they are. Therefore, a story about hope for humanity and humans' willingness to stand up for each other is quite comforting.

Albert Zhang’s first contact novel is a gripping exploration of humanity’s encounter with an alien civilization, blending hard science fiction with profound emotional depth. Zhang’s meticulous world-building is evident as he constructs a believable depiction of alien biology, culture, and technology. His attention to detail in crafting the scientific and cultural implications of first contact is both impressive and thought-provoking.

This was a really good story! The futuristic setting and other ideas from this book were good and so interesting. I love reading about different possibilities for the future. This one is a scary one with lots of fighting but it kept me entertained throughout the whole book!

Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, and to the publisher for this complementary ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!

I really loved this book. I think that everyone should read this book because it really can open your mind. I rated it 4 stars and I really recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can.