Well there are some recurring themes: - both have really vivid alien races - both explore how information shapes culture (this on in sub c, which is more intere

Well there are some recurring themes: - both have really vivid alien races - both explore how information shapes culture (this on in sub c, which is more interesting) The difference is that this one takes place in a more realistic universe and has a deeper focus on the role of human culture. Thats not to say its an entirely intellectual book, it is inface much more exciting than Fire