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This second book in the author’s science fiction series begins with an ancient survivor of many conflicts, Cullin, musing that a totalitarian entity called The Frame wants to sustain its control over the human race. Cullin considers himself a mine of information about the days gone by of Inalsol, where he lived. An analysis of his life reveals his action in battle, management of extraordinary situations, and the interpersonal relationships engendered by his determination to survive love, attempted dominance, war, and a multitude of additional life-threatening situations. As an example, a surgical procedure that is brief but painful reveals a variety of character traits—overt and covert—of those involved. A question pervasive in real life as well as in the story is this: In any situation, how much do we seek appreciation and satisfying relationships, even as we struggle to survive?
Fans of fiction and battle drama, as well as science fiction, will enjoy this book. The characters in this fast-paced fantasy are vibrant and believable because they have personalities and characteristics to which readers can relate. The general themes of ongoing conflict and the ways in which beings cope as individuals and in groups are and have been familiar in stories through the ages. Maries' presentation of them reflects an active imagination that grounds science fiction with the realistic thoughts, actions, and responses of the characters, combined with snappy dialogue that keeps the plot moving. The author's ability to tell a story well elevates a tale that could have been pedantic and predictable to a spellbinder. Each character contributes their particular fascination to the narrative's problems and revelations.