Because the book seemed complete in itself to me

Huh -- I'd mostly heard some grumblings from people that it didn't feel like a complete story, and that it's not marketed as Part 1 of anything.

Betsy, what's your opinion?

I think it's at least as well-closed as your typical Part 1. I'd be frustrated if there weren't a second part, because I'm very intrigued by the worldbuilding and characters. The Big Serious McGuffin isn't resolved.

I found it a satisfying read. Others may vary.

Interesting interview with Libba Bray [link]

Once I got to the end, I really respected Elizabeth Bear's Hammered trilogy, although I didn't like them as much as I wish I did

Really? I just finished the second book, and was debating whether to seek out the third--I take it you recommend?

Oddly enough, I think I liked the second one best, because of the whole asteroid strike thing. She didn't back away from that, and from the associated damage. It continues to be addressed in the third one, but not as much happens.

I had major issues with the first one: the subplot with the sister never seemed to be relevant to the overall story arc, and Casey's complicated backstory with all the childhood trauma felt very tacked on. I also got kind of tired of endless references to past events that were never really explained. Tell me or don't tell me, but please stop hinting about it.

That said, I did think it was a smart, well-plotted trilogy with a lot of interesting complicated characters and neat ideas that didn't overwhelm the characterizations.

Tell me or don't tell me, but please stop hinting about it.

Oh, I wouldn't like them, then. Fair warning is good.

Well, I may be in the minority: other people, including the author herself, seemed to think all the backstory was adequately explained. I may be a bit too linear.

Oh, very with you on all of that--I don't want something simple, I don't mind a little in medias res, but at the same time, don't make me go "Did I miss something, is this actually teh second book in a series??". There's a bunch of books by Kristine Smith that I adore, but have that same flaw--and it irritates me enough that I don't really wish for a prequel, even though I'd like some of it explained.

Nah, I'm the queen of literal, and I have no patience at all for writers who make me feel like they know something I don't and they aren't planning to tell me. I'm forever not getting things that everyone else gets. So chance are high I'd have the same reaction you did.

On the other hand, I did bull through and ended up liking the rest of it more. So.