Up front, I am not a particular fan of the science fiction genre. I think this novel is brilliant! The prose is lovely, the characters are fascinating, and above all, the story is laced with thought provoking and evocative ideas and concepts. The reader is introduced to the original "Faraways", comprised of three young people who are passionate about science fiction. From there, blast off to planet Urkh 24 or That-Place-Where-The-Most-Disconsolate-Melodies-Can-Be-Heard. Be prepared to feel confused by multiple realities, merging of past, present, and future, and to read about the end....of us! Ultimately, the book is about the single-mindedness of love, its oblivion and its devotion. Quite a literary feat. Loved it! ( )