On a huge spaceship that is more like a world than a vessel, Mariikel is a talented markmaker in a society where people's marks (tattoos) are the record of their lives. Parentage, clan, and accomplishments (both good and bad) are there for all to see. The markmakers are careful to record the truth and only the truth. Society is based upon this certainty.
The problem is that Mariikel was ordered to put an exile mark on someone who he thinks wasn't guilty. As Mariikel tries to correct his mistake, he comes across forgotten outcasts who he helps as an attempt to atone for his error. This additional information provides a perspective which most others don't have. That provides a fascinating context for what comes next as he is continually comparing people's beliefs and political developments with what he knows to be true.
This is just the set up for an exciting story that also examines conscience, honor, truth, family, history, and politics. I was fascinated by the details of the marks and the rich, real seeming world. Mentioning politics might make this sound stodgy but it is handled in a way that helps us see the vibrant society and the problem of having one group of people who are the markers of truth. What happens if the markmakers' judgment doesn't agree with the most powerful groups? That affects everyone from a lot of angles which we see as the story progresses. This is a debut novel but the author was masterful in the way she escorts the reader into the complex culture.
I was gripped by the story early on and couldn't wait to get back to it each night. When the story was transitioning to the third act it did sag some while we waited for anything to happen. However, once it did, the book took off again with a bang — a big bang — as all the repercussions of Mariikel's actions exacerbated the flaws in the political system.
Clearly this is the beginning of a series and one that I look forward to following. Highly recommended.
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