This book is one of the most unusual works of literature that I have ever read. There are multiple layers to unpack, while reading. It explores not only what it would be like to be involved in an alien “abduction” so to speak, but also what it means to be human.

At times, I must admit, it was very uncomfortable to read. There were a lot of parts that were disturbing, and some parts that were downright terrifying.

The characters (especially the main character, Lilith) are believable. Lilith is a well-rounded and complex human going through one of the most unfathomable occurrences imaginable. Following her thought process throughout is intensely intriguing. Lilith is faced with a lot of dilemmas that simply do not have good solutions, and observing her mental gymnastics and profound confusion around these situations is fascinating. The alien characters are also incredibly well thought out, from their physical descriptions, to their personalities.

The world building is excellent, in spite of the incredibly complex alien setting. There were several times where I had to sit back and try to envision what was being described, but I was always able to do so, with minimal effort.

This book will sit with me for a long time. There is a lot to think about and consider. Despite the fact that it was published 33 years ago, at no point did it feel like I was reading a dated piece of literature. The tone, setting, and views of the main character were very timeless, and were beautifully spun into a complex narrative. I plan to finish the entire Lilith’s Brood series, which contains two more novels, Adulthood Rites, and Imago.