what struck me most was how vivid and memorable that Panthalassa was, that I could leap right into this without re-reading. Charin's generation, and her non-relationship with the other sheppard children is really fascinating, how she felt at home in either the city or in Esha, until the realization of what it meant to have the ATA.

And much love for Selena, so much her father's daughter and her relationship with the land, and how Charin's time with her ended up being fairly influential--the love of running free, but with the disgust for the carcasses, and blood.

Poor John, his being lost and uncertain, wanting the open skies and freedom from the peering and prying eyes of all of his children--a little clone army--fueling his reluctance when Elizabeth wanted him to take up arms again. Enough War. yet, he's also tied to her, by the past and shared command that he can't simply leave, because that means leaving Rodney, and though its never said, I suspect that would be the greatest loss for John.

wonderful exploration on family, relationships, responsibility, and privilege. thank you!