It's definitely a book to hold up to all those people who complain that creating a diverse cast of characters is just too hard. Plus, it's a ripping good read.

I rather think there will be more stories in that universe, if only because it was Bear's most successful book to date, and for good reason. (I quite like Bear's other books, but not as much as I truly love this one.) I'm seriously thinking of dropping her a line--I got to know her in UNCLE fandom--and seeing if she has further plans for Karen and her group.