Hullo, this is my The Mercy of Gods by James S. A. Corey Reading Journal thread - SPOILER WARNING! First off, the "Part One: Before" is the kind of beginning I really enjoy. It creates a sense of fabula, if you will; foreboding that immediately sucks me in. I'll now post all my Part One thoughts!

Chapter 1 This is the world of scientists and their patrons, of social etiquette that plays at informality. Grand celebratory halls. Distinct smells of nature in an all but natural setting. Crowds of people, stratified through function by convention. The decor pops.