A review by bookook
Children of God by Mary Doria Russell

challenging dark reflective sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Weaker than the first book, but still interesting. It felt loosely sketched in a lot of ways, which made the emotional beats feel unearned. The character development in particular pales in comparison to the first book - I could barely remember who the members of the Jesuit expedition were this time. I think Joseba and Sean could have just been one character, Carlo was pointless, and Danny Iron Horse had a couple good moments but honestly probably could have been combined with Joseba and Sean. Also, weird choices for Sofia? And the big reveal at the end is pretty silly,

like God has to exist because some guy made pretty music based on DNA? What are they going to do when a fourth sentient species is discovered in the universe? Also, I know I shoul  suspend disbelief, but why would the Ruano and Ja'anata even have the same DNA we do?