Absolutely outstanding Star Trek novel - one of the best I've ever read. A perfect follow-up to the DS9 series finale. The characterization, plot and pacing are excellent. No character is given short shrift - we get to find out how everyone is feeling and thinking, without detracting from the urgency and mystery of the story. I particularly enjoyed getting to see Ro and Kira butting heads - since Kira was originally supposed to be Ro and obviously the two characters are really similar but it's pretty accurate to think they would not naturally get along. Very much looking forward to Part II and seeing how their relationship progresses.