In 2078, the Yazawa Corporation makes an astounding discovery near Saturn. A derelict alien ship with two sentient reptiles aboard. While CEO Kyung Yazawa and veterinarian Diane Hanning prepare the ETs for life among humans, an unstable US President Baker tries to prevent the Corporation and the aliens from negotiating a deal involving the Sentients' technology . . . by any means necessary. Very excellent book. No slow parts. All the characters were well done and came off as very human in their thoughts, actions and reactions. The first contact part was handled very well. Loved the blending of fear, confusion and surprise, along with all the work that went into trying to communicate with the Sentient Snake, Poc Tec. Also loved how Poc tried to fit into human society aboard the Yazawa space station, learning all the nuances of human society. Both she and Hanning established a terrific and believable bond. Fast-paced and exciting ending. Very cool fight in Zero G. Would have liked to have seen more of the colony, though. Also, not enough explanation for the stated slow down in space exploration after the 20th Century. Another point, 80 some years into the future it seemed the U.S. had the same enemies as today (Iraq, Syria, North Korea). Some geo-political factors should have been weighed in. Still, loved the book and look forward to the sequel.