The plot is well thought out and captures the attention. The weaving of the various plot threads is handled well, letting the narrative flow evenly even when moving from Japan to the Yucatan and California. I've worked in academia for years and while much of the research/publish or perish is right on the money other aspects lean more to a 'wouldn't put it past them' attitude. The characters have depth and background that makes them feel real; through occasionally the characters told us how they felt rather than allowing us to learn from the story.

All in all, it is an interesting novel that raises some questions while playing with the usual science fiction 'what if' flavored by non-European cultures and beliefs.