Parallel universe and romance plots usually seem to me at least somewhat similar to others I've read, and neither is a favorite. But I picked this First Reads as a flyer out of what seemed a meager array of choices for me, especially in a month I can choose two. Now, because I felt entertained, as well as educated - mostly from pausing to look up things (mainly concepts and places) - and because I much enjoyed the quick, fun read, I'm happily calling this a five.