The Fresco

The Fresco is a decent first-contact novel that is not up to the high standards of other Tepper titles I have read. There are some inventive concepts here and the main character is very likable. Despite the dire consequences for humanity, and the adversity the MC comes from, the tone of the writing is often light. The plot also moves along at a good clip. Where it falls apart for me is the blatant socio-political commentary. Even though I personally agree with most all of the statements she makes, the delivery is just too heavy-handed and quickly becomes tiresome.

As far as stand-alone novels, The Gate to Women's Country or Six Moon Dance are both better places to start with Tepper's catalog. Both are brilliant while this novel is good.