I read this within 3 days, on the tiny screen of my phone, and I could not care less because I've never enjoyed a book this much

The protagonist is a bisexual autistic woman. There's a strong focus on her inner life and thought process, and it's just so real. If you're autistic and have anxiety, here's finally a book that will make you feel understood, and have a truly relatable character.

For a large part the plot was intricate but lightweight until it got really intense toward the end. For the first half or so I thought I'd be recommending this as a light read but wow, as the book ended I was a sobbing mess.

Outwardly it looks like a science fiction book about aliens and diplomacy, but it carries clear social commentary as well.

I could not spot any ableism, racism or other *ism.

I really really really recommend reading this. Especially if you're autistic. And I guess also especially if you're not autistic. Or just in general.

It's also incredibly well written. The language is clear but artful.