This book carries the story forward after the occurrences in the first book, but it is not a standalone sequel; it does reference Post-Human and I think both novels should be read in sequence. In Trans-Human far-reaching consequences from the events in Post-Human have come calling, looking for the Artificial Intelligence that summoned them. Are they friend or foe? Who is lying, who can be trusted and was the malicious A. I. really defeated?
The first part of the novel is very fast paced; the reader is thrown into action scenes that are pelted at your senses almost to the point of confusion. I say almost, because half-way through the book a revelation transpires that pulls everything into focus and turns the perspective of the narrative. From that point the book extends its reach through the conflict and into an absorbing introspective and theoretical storyline.
I found the book enjoyable and entertaining, nicely balancing the scientific storyline with the characters, both ally and enemy. The novel raises interesting questions about the nature of being, and the ending -if a happy one- poses its own great exploratory uncertainty. So, if you like your science fiction speculative, philosophical, a little theological and action-packed, Trans-Human is the book for you.
