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Jan 03, 2016danielestes rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
"When was the last time you got laid?" The above line from Emilio Sandoz early on in the story encapsulates the subversive, understated wit that Mary Doria Russell brings to her stories. The phrase lacks context unless you're familiar with events from the previous book. It's a delicious, biting irony from a story that's about rediscovering one's faith in God. (Minor spoilers ahead for both books of the series.) If anyone can create a worthy sequel to The Sparrow, an astonishing debut, it would be Mary Doria Russell. Not just because it's her story, but also because she has the skill to continue a character's journey in a way that adds relevance without too much repetition. Still, Children of God is a different kind of book. The Sparrow had a clean ending even though it was one of the most heartbreaking conclusions I've ever read. I bet the author didn't originally have a part 2 in mind until her editors suggested it. Plus, I was curious to see what happens to Emilio Sandoz so not reading Children of God wasn't really an option. It runs at a slower pace and much of the alien mystique of the people of Rakkat is lessened because they're not so alien any more. Basically, if you're the type of reader that needs closure, read Children of God. Heck, read it anyway. It's worth it. A small part of me though wishes I had stopped after The Sparrow.