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This fine archeological quest novel from the Reeves-Stevens duo (Icefire) smoothly blends a fast-moving fantasy plot with a solid scientific backdrop. Nine thousand years ago, a strange species of quasi-humans known as the First Gods gave our ancient ancestors the information that would lift them out of the mud of simple existence. Before disappearing from the earth, these First Gods created an enigmatic, hidden group known as the Family, whose members have kept the gods' secrets over the centuries. In the present day, anthropologist Jess MacClary becomes one of the Family's inner sanctum leaders. Others—notably, DNA researcher David Weir, who will die if he doesn't uncover the Family knowledge, and industrialist Holden Ironwood, who needs the knowledge to vindicate his belief that man is descended from aliens—are thrown into the search for enlightenment and the secrets of the First Gods. Smart, suspenseful writing and a clever concept add up to a compelling read. (Aug.)