Novel: too like the lightning

Novel: too like the lightning
Author: Ada Palmer
Rating: 4 Sherlocks, 5 roddenberries, 3 Pulitzers, 7 Herberts, and 8 Heinleins.
Genre: SF

Short synopsis: This is the greatest novel I've read this year. This is the 27th book I've read in 2016.

Set in the ~25th century for future readers, the novel uses the mechanics of the 18th century novel. So, it goes like this:

Something about how gender doesn't exist in this century
_Dear reader, what are you to make of this? In my time ... _

That is, the author found a way to have as much world-building as Dune while still explaining it without an appendix. There is the problem and crime solving of Sherlock, with the answer staring us in the face where we can't see it the whole time. The hopefulness of Roddenberry, and an investgative streak a mile wide. And, of course, a certain joy in technology that identifies with the best of Heinlein.

Turns out, there is a second book as of yet unpublished. I look forward to it with great anticipation!

If I've ever convinced you to read a book, read this one.