When one thinks of epic Sci Fi, the names Herbert, Bruin, and Asimov jump to mind. I think that G.S. Jennsen is getting close.
I must say, though, that this is not a book for people who expect lighthearted banter and funny aliens ala Star Wars. This is more traditional Sci-Fi.
In my opinion, the tech and world-building are the crowning jewels of this book. I didn’t feel like I had to ask questions as to what things were, but the different technology wasn’t presented in a hard to read way either.
If there is one flaw, I could have done without so many flashbacks. Some seemed a little redundant and bogged down the beginning of the story for me, but other readers could very well feel differently.