This was an odd book – not quite science-fiction, but closer to that than anything else. It is about a pastor who is sent to an alien planet to minister to the natives, who have become obsessed with Christianity as a result of a couple of prior pastors sent by the corporate behemoth that is running a facility on the planet. What is interesting is that the best part of the book is the virtually real-time email that exists between the pastor and his wife, who is left on an Earth that is increasingly falling apart, And shows there originally close relationship becoming strained by the absence, but also by his problems providing emotional support and attention as he becomes increasingly focused on proselytizing to a very receptive native community.
I liked the book, and found it very enjoyable reading, although I became increasingly anxious about what was happening to his relationship with his wife when he didn't seem to – good writing will do that. I found that the ending left me hanging, but was relieved that nothing worse happened. I wouldn't be surprised to see a sequel, and hope there is one.
