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Content snapshot
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Violence
Some
Some action violence and future-world conflict; not the primary focus
Language
Some
Adult language consistent with 1970s speculative fiction
Sexual Content
A lot
Explicit adult sexual content; Varley's treatment of sexuality is casual and direct, including frank depictions involving cloning and identity themes
Substance Use
Barely any
Minimal substance use
Emotional Intensity
Some
Philosophical and psychological themes around identity, cloning, and what makes a person unique
What this book is about
John Varley's 1977 science fiction novel follows Lilo, a genetic engineer condemned to death in a future where humanity survives only on the outer planets after alien Invaders expelled us from Earth. The plot involves cloning, identity, alien communication, and high-stakes political intrigue across the solar system. Varley's characteristically frank treatment of sexuality, gender, and the body includes mature adult sexual content alongside conceptually rich worldbuilding.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Adult sexual content including explicit scenes
Mature 1970s science fiction themes around gender and identity
Reader Verification
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