The Ullikumis story arc is picking up speed and it's interesting that questions are finally being confronted about the whole series' formula, such as Kane and Bridget's relationship and just why the alien overlords are only based in North America. The usual team is also shaken up by the addition of an extra character and that gives the story a fresh feel too. It adds to the sense that big changes are coming.

There's also some careful continuity, although nothing that's off-putting for newcomers. For example I knew nothing of the alien Balam until now. But for regular followers its nice to get the details right. Plus the welcome return of an old character who seemed to have much more mileage in them.

The Ontic Library is a big concept and makes the stakes in this story as big as they've ever been. The idea of an actual blueprint not just for material objects but for the physical laws of the universe is a huge, almost overwhelming concept. It's certainly a concept that invites all kind of story ideas but quite rightly in this adventure the emphasize is purely on the dangers of individuals using such godlike power.

There's some good recalls to the kind of biomechanoid technology which the Alien films made famous. Good to see the return of an fascinating character from a few books back. A very entertaining installment that's stronger than the previous book in the series "Oblivion Stone" and promises that the saga is in good hands. Good cliffhanger too.