Set in the 24th century, the novel explores a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, transforming various planets and moons to support life. The story follows Swan Er Hong, a resident of Mercury, who becomes embroiled in a complex conspiracy after the death of her grandmother, a prominent figure in the space-faring society. As Swan travels through the meticulously terraformed worlds and space habitats, she uncovers a plot that threatens the delicate balance of the interplanetary ecosystem. The narrative weaves together themes of environmentalism, political intrigue, and the boundless potential of human innovation, all while examining the social and personal ramifications of extended life spans and advanced technology.

The 11039th greatest book of all time