Exigency portrays a lot of what I like about Science Fiction. I grew up watching Star Trek. Meeting new cultures and civilisations was the basis of the programme. Admittedly, when I was young, I despised the diplomatic episodes. Now, as an adult, I can enjoy them and understand why it was important to include them in the series. This is not Star Trek, but certain parts of the story could be considered similar.
There is an excellent balance of action, dialogue, and random sci-fi geekery. The book flows along perfectly and I was somewhat upset upon completion of the book. Not because the ending was bad, but because the ebook edition contained loads of cruft and stuff at the end leading me to believe that there was more to read.
Overall: not a waste of time, easy to read, moments of comedy, and a few shocking moments as well.