Normally, I wouldn't rate a novel in this genre this high, but any sci-fi book that can keep my attention and make me not want to put it down is worth five stars. I think that this book should be subtitled "The Gospel According to Thrisc," as a comparison between one of the main characters named Thrisc and Jesus Christ is drawn. This book follows Peter Goodman through the moral struggles and highs of his life, as well as in the lives of the aliens in which he comes in contact. The central theme is choosing what is right or wrong, to reach a higher goal. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy sci-fi and who can appreciate a parable, Biblical or not, tucked inside. The author should be applauded for a very well-written novel.