This book is kind of difficult to rate since it's not in my typical literary regimen. The genre is a blend of political intrigue, philosophical reflection, sci-fi, and fantasy. Usually books that focus on intrigue, subterfuge, and an incredibly deep well of plot twists are not my thing, but this book pulls it off in a way that maintains my interest and doesn't make me roll my eyes. Palmer gives you just enough to make you think and then leaves you two stew on it a bit, thinking of all the implications this new detail will have on the characters you've become invested in. Of course I'll now read the next book in the quartet.