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Homo Deus
A book based on Thoth (or Ningishzida), an enigmatic god associated with ancient Egypt and the realms of mysticism and ancient knowledge. According to mythology Thoth held the keys to understanding the mysteries of the universe, the nature of reality, and the spiritual evolution of humanity.
In this book Thoth imparts important scientific knowledge to Sophia, Sophie’s great granddaughter who through her understanding of advanced genetics has brought him back to life by mixing her DNA with his. He holds the keys to accessing a unique form of earth-based energy, and to extending human life through his understanding of how to orbitally rearrange the mineral elements in gold. After the devastating effects of climate change destroy the surface of our planet and much of humanity, he returns to life to help prevent us from destroying ourselves and our planet once again.
In this book Thoth imparts important scientific knowledge to Sophia, Sophie’s great granddaughter who through her understanding of advanced genetics has brought him back to life by mixing her DNA with his. He holds the keys to accessing a unique form of earth-based energy, and to extending human life through his understanding of how to orbitally rearrange the mineral elements in gold. After the devastating effects of climate change destroy the surface of our planet and much of humanity, he returns to life to help prevent us from destroying ourselves and our planet once again.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
September 4, 2025
Felicity Harley returns with Homo Deus, the stunning second installment in her ambitious "Until This Last" series, delivering a narrative that seamlessly weaves ancient mythology with cutting-edge science fiction. Following the groundbreaking foundation laid in The Burning Years, Harley crafts a story that explores the very essence of what it means to be human in a world where the boundaries between past and future, myth and reality, have been irrevocably blurred.
The Resurrection of Ancient Wisdom
At the heart of Homo Deus lies one of the most audacious scientific experiments in contemporary fiction. Sophia, our brilliant geneticist protagonist, achieves what many would consider impossible: she successfully clones the ancient Anunnaki deity Ningishzida, better known to mythology as Thoth, using a combination of her own DNA and genetic material discovered on Mars. This isn't merely science fiction spectacle—it's a profound exploration of identity, consciousness, and the cyclical nature of knowledge.
The character of Zid, as the resurrected Ningishzida comes to be known, represents one of Harley's greatest achievements. Through him, she creates a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern crisis, embodying both the innocence of rebirth and the weight of millennia-old knowledge. His gradual awakening to his dual nature—part ancient god, part modern creation—provides some of the novel's most compelling emotional moments.
Environmental Urgency Meets Ancient Solutions
Harley doesn't shy away from the environmental catastrophe that serves as the backdrop for her narrative. The Earth's surface has become uninhabitable, forcing humanity into underground dome cities where synthetic coffee replaces the real thing and sterile air circulation systems remove all natural scents. This post-climate-change world feels both dystopian and eerily plausible, serving as a stark reminder of our current environmental trajectory.
What elevates this beyond typical climate fiction is how Harley introduces ancient solutions to modern problems. Zid's knowledge of gold's molecular properties and earth-based energy systems offers hope that feels both mystical and scientifically grounded. The author's background in social sciences shines through as she explores how environmental collapse affects social structures, relationships, and human consciousness.
Character Development That Resonates
The Evolution of Sophia
Sophia emerges as a complex protagonist whose scientific brilliance is matched by her emotional vulnerability. Her relationship with her creation—simultaneously maternal, scientific, and deeply personal—drives much of the narrative tension. Harley skillfully explores the psychological implications of creating life, especially when that life carries the memories and knowledge of an ancient deity.
Zid's Dual Consciousness
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the novel is how Harley handles Zid's dual consciousness. He retains his memories as Ningishzida while also carrying Sophia's genetic memories, creating a unique perspective that allows him to view both human and Anunnaki history with fresh eyes. His gradual integration of these dual identities, particularly his developing emotional intelligence inherited from Sophia, provides rich character development throughout the narrative.
Supporting Characters That Enhance the Journey
The expedition team—including Nzarah, Max, Obi, Caroline, and Amadi—each brings distinct expertise and personality to the story. Harley avoids the trap of token diversity by giving each character genuine depth and purpose. Nzarah's relationship with Zid, in particular, becomes complicated when she learns of his past involvement in genetic experiments on early humans, adding moral complexity to their developing romance.
Mythological Authenticity Meets Scientific Rigor
Harley's extensive research into Sumerian mythology and ancient Egyptian wisdom traditions elevates the fantasy elements beyond mere speculation. Her portrayal of Thoth/Ningishzida draws from genuine mythological sources while extrapolating their potential real-world applications. The author's acknowledgment that she doesn't intend to detract from Egypt's actual history demonstrates the respectful approach she takes to these ancient cultures.
The scientific elements feel equally grounded. Harley's exploration of genetic cloning, DNA memory, and advanced materials science reflects current scientific understanding while pushing into plausible future developments. Her description of protocell technology, warm nuclear fusion, and bioengineered building materials creates a technological landscape that feels both advanced and achievable.
Themes That Resonate Beyond the Page
The Nature of Identity and Consciousness
Homo Deus grapples with fundamental questions about what makes us human. Through Zid's unique perspective, Harley explores whether consciousness is bound to original biology or can transcend genetic modification and resurrection. The novel suggests that identity is fluid, shaped by both inherited memory and new experience.
Environmental Responsibility and Ancient Wisdom
The book presents a compelling argument that ancient civilizations may have possessed technologies and wisdom that could address our current environmental crisis. Zid's knowledge of earth-based energy systems and molecular manipulation of gold offers hope while suggesting that progress isn't always linear.
The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
Through Sophia's experiment and the revelations about the Anunnaki's past genetic modifications of humanity, Harley examines the moral implications of creating and modifying life. The novel doesn't provide easy answers but encourages readers to consider the responsibilities that come with such power.
Literary Craftsmanship and World-Building
Harley's prose strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and sophistication. Her background in journalism serves her well in creating clear, engaging narrative flow, while her social sciences education provides depth to the world-building. The underground cities feel lived-in and authentic, with details like synthetic coffee and sterile air circulation systems adding texture without overwhelming the narrative.
The pacing expertly balances character development with plot advancement. Quieter moments of relationship building and philosophical discussion are balanced with action sequences and scientific discoveries. The expedition to South Africa's abandoned gold mines provides an excellent crescendo that combines adventure with mythological revelation.
Connection to The Burning Years
Readers familiar with The Burning Years will appreciate how Homo Deus expands the series' scope while maintaining narrative continuity. The introduction of trans-human characters like Inanna and Rajeev from the first book provides context for Sophia's genetic experiments, while the ongoing environmental crisis maintains thematic consistency. New readers can enjoy this installment independently, though they'll gain additional depth from reading the series in order.
A Bridge Between Genres
What makes Homo Deus particularly remarkable is how it transcends traditional genre boundaries. It functions equally well as science fiction, fantasy, environmental fiction, and philosophical exploration. Young adult readers will connect with the coming-of-age elements in Zid's story, while adult readers will appreciate the complex scientific and philosophical themes.
Final Thoughts: A Worthy Addition to Speculative Fiction
Homo Deus represents the kind of ambitious, thoughtful science fiction that the genre needs more of. Harley creates a narrative that entertains while challenging readers to consider fundamental questions about human nature, environmental responsibility, and the cyclical nature of knowledge and wisdom.
The novel succeeds because it never forgets that great science fiction is ultimately about humanity. Through Zid's unique perspective as both ancient deity and modern creation, Harley explores what it means to be human in ways that feel both timeless and urgently contemporary.
For readers seeking science fiction that combines rigorous scientific speculation with mythological depth and environmental consciousness, Homo Deus delivers on all fronts. It confirms Felicity Harley as a voice worth following in speculative fiction and leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the "Until This Last" series.
Homo Deus is the second book in Felicity Harley's "Until This Last" series, following The Burning Years. Harley brings extensive credentials as a published journalist, social scientist, and human rights advocate to her speculative fiction, creating narratives that blend entertainment with social consciousness.
The Resurrection of Ancient Wisdom
At the heart of Homo Deus lies one of the most audacious scientific experiments in contemporary fiction. Sophia, our brilliant geneticist protagonist, achieves what many would consider impossible: she successfully clones the ancient Anunnaki deity Ningishzida, better known to mythology as Thoth, using a combination of her own DNA and genetic material discovered on Mars. This isn't merely science fiction spectacle—it's a profound exploration of identity, consciousness, and the cyclical nature of knowledge.
The character of Zid, as the resurrected Ningishzida comes to be known, represents one of Harley's greatest achievements. Through him, she creates a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern crisis, embodying both the innocence of rebirth and the weight of millennia-old knowledge. His gradual awakening to his dual nature—part ancient god, part modern creation—provides some of the novel's most compelling emotional moments.
Environmental Urgency Meets Ancient Solutions
Harley doesn't shy away from the environmental catastrophe that serves as the backdrop for her narrative. The Earth's surface has become uninhabitable, forcing humanity into underground dome cities where synthetic coffee replaces the real thing and sterile air circulation systems remove all natural scents. This post-climate-change world feels both dystopian and eerily plausible, serving as a stark reminder of our current environmental trajectory.
What elevates this beyond typical climate fiction is how Harley introduces ancient solutions to modern problems. Zid's knowledge of gold's molecular properties and earth-based energy systems offers hope that feels both mystical and scientifically grounded. The author's background in social sciences shines through as she explores how environmental collapse affects social structures, relationships, and human consciousness.
Character Development That Resonates
The Evolution of Sophia
Sophia emerges as a complex protagonist whose scientific brilliance is matched by her emotional vulnerability. Her relationship with her creation—simultaneously maternal, scientific, and deeply personal—drives much of the narrative tension. Harley skillfully explores the psychological implications of creating life, especially when that life carries the memories and knowledge of an ancient deity.
Zid's Dual Consciousness
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the novel is how Harley handles Zid's dual consciousness. He retains his memories as Ningishzida while also carrying Sophia's genetic memories, creating a unique perspective that allows him to view both human and Anunnaki history with fresh eyes. His gradual integration of these dual identities, particularly his developing emotional intelligence inherited from Sophia, provides rich character development throughout the narrative.
Supporting Characters That Enhance the Journey
The expedition team—including Nzarah, Max, Obi, Caroline, and Amadi—each brings distinct expertise and personality to the story. Harley avoids the trap of token diversity by giving each character genuine depth and purpose. Nzarah's relationship with Zid, in particular, becomes complicated when she learns of his past involvement in genetic experiments on early humans, adding moral complexity to their developing romance.
Mythological Authenticity Meets Scientific Rigor
Harley's extensive research into Sumerian mythology and ancient Egyptian wisdom traditions elevates the fantasy elements beyond mere speculation. Her portrayal of Thoth/Ningishzida draws from genuine mythological sources while extrapolating their potential real-world applications. The author's acknowledgment that she doesn't intend to detract from Egypt's actual history demonstrates the respectful approach she takes to these ancient cultures.
The scientific elements feel equally grounded. Harley's exploration of genetic cloning, DNA memory, and advanced materials science reflects current scientific understanding while pushing into plausible future developments. Her description of protocell technology, warm nuclear fusion, and bioengineered building materials creates a technological landscape that feels both advanced and achievable.
Themes That Resonate Beyond the Page
The Nature of Identity and Consciousness
Homo Deus grapples with fundamental questions about what makes us human. Through Zid's unique perspective, Harley explores whether consciousness is bound to original biology or can transcend genetic modification and resurrection. The novel suggests that identity is fluid, shaped by both inherited memory and new experience.
Environmental Responsibility and Ancient Wisdom
The book presents a compelling argument that ancient civilizations may have possessed technologies and wisdom that could address our current environmental crisis. Zid's knowledge of earth-based energy systems and molecular manipulation of gold offers hope while suggesting that progress isn't always linear.
The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
Through Sophia's experiment and the revelations about the Anunnaki's past genetic modifications of humanity, Harley examines the moral implications of creating and modifying life. The novel doesn't provide easy answers but encourages readers to consider the responsibilities that come with such power.
Literary Craftsmanship and World-Building
Harley's prose strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and sophistication. Her background in journalism serves her well in creating clear, engaging narrative flow, while her social sciences education provides depth to the world-building. The underground cities feel lived-in and authentic, with details like synthetic coffee and sterile air circulation systems adding texture without overwhelming the narrative.
The pacing expertly balances character development with plot advancement. Quieter moments of relationship building and philosophical discussion are balanced with action sequences and scientific discoveries. The expedition to South Africa's abandoned gold mines provides an excellent crescendo that combines adventure with mythological revelation.
Connection to The Burning Years
Readers familiar with The Burning Years will appreciate how Homo Deus expands the series' scope while maintaining narrative continuity. The introduction of trans-human characters like Inanna and Rajeev from the first book provides context for Sophia's genetic experiments, while the ongoing environmental crisis maintains thematic consistency. New readers can enjoy this installment independently, though they'll gain additional depth from reading the series in order.
A Bridge Between Genres
What makes Homo Deus particularly remarkable is how it transcends traditional genre boundaries. It functions equally well as science fiction, fantasy, environmental fiction, and philosophical exploration. Young adult readers will connect with the coming-of-age elements in Zid's story, while adult readers will appreciate the complex scientific and philosophical themes.
Final Thoughts: A Worthy Addition to Speculative Fiction
Homo Deus represents the kind of ambitious, thoughtful science fiction that the genre needs more of. Harley creates a narrative that entertains while challenging readers to consider fundamental questions about human nature, environmental responsibility, and the cyclical nature of knowledge and wisdom.
The novel succeeds because it never forgets that great science fiction is ultimately about humanity. Through Zid's unique perspective as both ancient deity and modern creation, Harley explores what it means to be human in ways that feel both timeless and urgently contemporary.
For readers seeking science fiction that combines rigorous scientific speculation with mythological depth and environmental consciousness, Homo Deus delivers on all fronts. It confirms Felicity Harley as a voice worth following in speculative fiction and leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the "Until This Last" series.
Homo Deus is the second book in Felicity Harley's "Until This Last" series, following The Burning Years. Harley brings extensive credentials as a published journalist, social scientist, and human rights advocate to her speculative fiction, creating narratives that blend entertainment with social consciousness.
November 6, 2025
Picture this: you're scrolling through genetic research papers when suddenly someone drops a bombshell about cloning ancient gods. That's exactly the wild ride Felicity Harley takes us on in Homo Deus, and honestly? I'm absolutely here for it.
Sophia's decision to clone Ningishzida using her own DNA is the kind of audacious plot point that makes you put down your coffee and think, "Wait, what?" But Harley handles this potentially ridiculous premise with such scientific grounding that you find yourself nodding along. The way she describes the cloning process, the stem cell fluid, the rapid development—it feels plausible in that perfect science fiction way.
What really grabbed me was Zid's identity crisis. The poor guy has memories from both his ancient life as a Nibiran deity and Sophia's modern human experiences. Imagine remembering your father Enki while simultaneously recalling your creator's first kiss with Gabriel. It's emotionally messy and psychologically fascinating. Harley doesn't shy away from the confusion this creates, especially in Zid's relationships with the expedition team.
The world-building feels lived-in rather than explained. Weather City's surveillance state, the synthetic coffee, the sterile underground existence—these details accumulate naturally. When they finally reach Egypt and activate the Great Pyramid, the payoff feels earned. The Merkabah spinning with light, the communication with Nergal, the revelation about the galactic Federation—it's spectacular without being overwrought.
Nzarah's moral revulsion when she learns about Zid's past genetic experiments adds real emotional stakes. Their relationship isn't just romantic tension; it's about confronting the ethics of creation itself. That's the kind of depth that elevates Homo Deus beyond simple adventure into something genuinely thought-provoking.
Sophia's decision to clone Ningishzida using her own DNA is the kind of audacious plot point that makes you put down your coffee and think, "Wait, what?" But Harley handles this potentially ridiculous premise with such scientific grounding that you find yourself nodding along. The way she describes the cloning process, the stem cell fluid, the rapid development—it feels plausible in that perfect science fiction way.
What really grabbed me was Zid's identity crisis. The poor guy has memories from both his ancient life as a Nibiran deity and Sophia's modern human experiences. Imagine remembering your father Enki while simultaneously recalling your creator's first kiss with Gabriel. It's emotionally messy and psychologically fascinating. Harley doesn't shy away from the confusion this creates, especially in Zid's relationships with the expedition team.
The world-building feels lived-in rather than explained. Weather City's surveillance state, the synthetic coffee, the sterile underground existence—these details accumulate naturally. When they finally reach Egypt and activate the Great Pyramid, the payoff feels earned. The Merkabah spinning with light, the communication with Nergal, the revelation about the galactic Federation—it's spectacular without being overwrought.
Nzarah's moral revulsion when she learns about Zid's past genetic experiments adds real emotional stakes. Their relationship isn't just romantic tension; it's about confronting the ethics of creation itself. That's the kind of depth that elevates Homo Deus beyond simple adventure into something genuinely thought-provoking.
November 6, 2025
Harley's Homo Deus represents a sophisticated interrogation of post-human identity within the framework of mythological reconstruction. The narrative's central conceit—the resurrection of Ningishzida through genetic amalgamation—serves as a vehicle for examining consciousness, memory, and the nature of selfhood in an era of technological transcendence.
The protagonist Sophia functions as both creator and mother figure, embodying the complex ethical dimensions of genetic manipulation. Her character arc demonstrates the psychological burden of unprecedented scientific achievement while navigating the sociopolitical constraints of her dystopian society. The underground dome cities represent more than mere environmental collapse; they symbolize humanity's retreat from natural existence into artificially controlled environments.
Zid's dual consciousness presents a fascinating study in identity formation. His retention of both Nibiran memories and Sophia's genetic memories creates a unique perspective on human and non-human experience. The text explores how consciousness might transcend individual biological boundaries while raising questions about the persistence of identity across genetic modification and resurrection.
The expedition to Egypt serves multiple narrative functions. It provides archaeological validation for the mythological elements while creating space for character development and thematic exploration. The activation of the Great Pyramid functions as both plot climax and metaphysical revelation, connecting ancient wisdom to contemporary crisis.
Harley's integration of Sumerian mythology demonstrates meticulous research while avoiding appropriation. The Anunnaki are presented as scientifically advanced beings rather than supernatural entities, grounding the fantastic elements in speculative science. The revelation of the galactic Federation introduces cosmic scope while maintaining focus on human concerns.
The prose balances accessibility with complexity, allowing for both entertainment and deeper analysis of contemporary issues through speculative lens.
The protagonist Sophia functions as both creator and mother figure, embodying the complex ethical dimensions of genetic manipulation. Her character arc demonstrates the psychological burden of unprecedented scientific achievement while navigating the sociopolitical constraints of her dystopian society. The underground dome cities represent more than mere environmental collapse; they symbolize humanity's retreat from natural existence into artificially controlled environments.
Zid's dual consciousness presents a fascinating study in identity formation. His retention of both Nibiran memories and Sophia's genetic memories creates a unique perspective on human and non-human experience. The text explores how consciousness might transcend individual biological boundaries while raising questions about the persistence of identity across genetic modification and resurrection.
The expedition to Egypt serves multiple narrative functions. It provides archaeological validation for the mythological elements while creating space for character development and thematic exploration. The activation of the Great Pyramid functions as both plot climax and metaphysical revelation, connecting ancient wisdom to contemporary crisis.
Harley's integration of Sumerian mythology demonstrates meticulous research while avoiding appropriation. The Anunnaki are presented as scientifically advanced beings rather than supernatural entities, grounding the fantastic elements in speculative science. The revelation of the galactic Federation introduces cosmic scope while maintaining focus on human concerns.
The prose balances accessibility with complexity, allowing for both entertainment and deeper analysis of contemporary issues through speculative lens.
November 6, 2025
Homo Deus exemplifies the sophisticated evolution of mythological science fiction, demonstrating how contemporary authors can successfully integrate ancient narratives with cutting-edge scientific speculation. Harley's treatment of Sumerian mythology avoids the common pitfalls of either dismissive rationalization or uncritical mysticism, instead presenting the Anunnaki as technologically advanced beings whose abilities appear godlike to less developed civilizations.
The genetic resurrection of Ningishzida operates on multiple levels within genre conventions. As hard science fiction, it extrapolates plausible developments in cloning technology and genetic memory. As mythological fantasy, it literalizes the concept of divine return. The synthesis creates a narrative space where both scientific and mythic truth can coexist without contradiction.
Harley's world-building demonstrates mastery of environmental science fiction tropes while maintaining originality. The underground dome cities represent familiar post-climate-change societies, but details like synthetic coffee and sterile air circulation systems ground the setting in sensory reality. The surveillance state elements draw from cyberpunk traditions while serving the specific needs of this narrative.
The expedition structure recalls classic adventure fiction while subverting expectations. Rather than conquering or discovering, the characters seek understanding and connection. The activation of the Great Pyramid functions as both archaeological revelation and cosmic communication, bridging terrestrial and galactic scope.
Character development follows YA fantasy conventions with adult sophistication. Zid's coming-of-age story incorporates questions of identity and belonging while addressing complex ethical issues around genetic manipulation and colonial history. The romantic subplot between Zid and Nzarah provides emotional stakes without overwhelming the speculative elements.
The introduction of the galactic Federation expands the narrative universe while maintaining focus on immediate character concerns, demonstrating skilled balance between cosmic scope and personal story.
The genetic resurrection of Ningishzida operates on multiple levels within genre conventions. As hard science fiction, it extrapolates plausible developments in cloning technology and genetic memory. As mythological fantasy, it literalizes the concept of divine return. The synthesis creates a narrative space where both scientific and mythic truth can coexist without contradiction.
Harley's world-building demonstrates mastery of environmental science fiction tropes while maintaining originality. The underground dome cities represent familiar post-climate-change societies, but details like synthetic coffee and sterile air circulation systems ground the setting in sensory reality. The surveillance state elements draw from cyberpunk traditions while serving the specific needs of this narrative.
The expedition structure recalls classic adventure fiction while subverting expectations. Rather than conquering or discovering, the characters seek understanding and connection. The activation of the Great Pyramid functions as both archaeological revelation and cosmic communication, bridging terrestrial and galactic scope.
Character development follows YA fantasy conventions with adult sophistication. Zid's coming-of-age story incorporates questions of identity and belonging while addressing complex ethical issues around genetic manipulation and colonial history. The romantic subplot between Zid and Nzarah provides emotional stakes without overwhelming the speculative elements.
The introduction of the galactic Federation expands the narrative universe while maintaining focus on immediate character concerns, demonstrating skilled balance between cosmic scope and personal story.
November 6, 2025
From the moment Zid opens his sea-green eyes in that birthing tank, my heart was completely invested in this extraordinary story. Felicity Harley has created something magical here—a tale that wraps ancient mythology in futuristic possibility while never forgetting the raw human emotions at its center.
Sophia's fierce protectiveness over her genetic creation resonates deeply. When she kisses his cheek as he awakens, calling him her "sentient newborn," the maternal tenderness is palpable. Yet there's also terror in her achievement—she's brought back a being who remembers ruling civilizations while carrying her own memories of first love and scientific discovery.
Zid's journey of self-discovery broke my heart in the most beautiful way. He's simultaneously ancient and newborn, powerful and vulnerable. His confusion about human emotions, particularly his struggle to understand Sophia's love for Gabriel, feels authentically adolescent despite his divine heritage. When he admits he doesn't remember having a romantic partner in his past life, there's such innocence in that uncertainty.
The developing relationship between Zid and Nzarah crackles with genuine chemistry. Their shared moments—him admiring her butterfly tattoo, wanting a caduceus on his ankle, wearing her silver bracelet—create intimacy through small gestures. When she pulls away after learning about his past genetic experiments, the betrayal cuts deep because Harley made us believe in their connection.
The Egypt expedition transforms from adventure to revelation to heartbreak. Standing in the ruins where Zid once lived, watching him remember building the pyramids, feeling his isolation when Nzarah rejects him—these moments pulse with emotion. Even the communication with his brother Nergal carries weight because we understand Zid's desperate need for belonging.
This isn't just science fiction or fantasy; it's a deeply felt exploration of identity, acceptance, and finding home.
Sophia's fierce protectiveness over her genetic creation resonates deeply. When she kisses his cheek as he awakens, calling him her "sentient newborn," the maternal tenderness is palpable. Yet there's also terror in her achievement—she's brought back a being who remembers ruling civilizations while carrying her own memories of first love and scientific discovery.
Zid's journey of self-discovery broke my heart in the most beautiful way. He's simultaneously ancient and newborn, powerful and vulnerable. His confusion about human emotions, particularly his struggle to understand Sophia's love for Gabriel, feels authentically adolescent despite his divine heritage. When he admits he doesn't remember having a romantic partner in his past life, there's such innocence in that uncertainty.
The developing relationship between Zid and Nzarah crackles with genuine chemistry. Their shared moments—him admiring her butterfly tattoo, wanting a caduceus on his ankle, wearing her silver bracelet—create intimacy through small gestures. When she pulls away after learning about his past genetic experiments, the betrayal cuts deep because Harley made us believe in their connection.
The Egypt expedition transforms from adventure to revelation to heartbreak. Standing in the ruins where Zid once lived, watching him remember building the pyramids, feeling his isolation when Nzarah rejects him—these moments pulse with emotion. Even the communication with his brother Nergal carries weight because we understand Zid's desperate need for belonging.
This isn't just science fiction or fantasy; it's a deeply felt exploration of identity, acceptance, and finding home.
July 23, 2025
A very timely story that focuses on climate change. By providing details about the creation and developement of possible future scientic and technological breakthroughs (many of which are quite imaginative), Ms. Harley makes them seem more authentic. This is coupled with interesting characters and a storyline includes friendship, love, religion, betrayal and politics. It is not necessary to read Book 1 The Burning Years to enjoy this book, but I recommend it as sets the stage nicely for this second book.
May 15, 2025
A magical piece of futuristic world building that addresses fears about our own time. I loved the imagination behind the story, and I also appreciated the care in providing family trees, illustrations, and diagrams. These seemed to make a fantastical world even more real.
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