This is the second Heinlein book I've read, and hopefully, the last. It's interesting to read this book in the context of it's supposedly historical influence on the 60's free-love movement, and the origin of the term 'grok' which shows up amongst the geeky stuff that I read. Other than that, I found myself severely rolling my eyes at least every other page.

On the free-love, polyamorous relationship thing, I felt he could have explored this much more. For example, during Ben's initiation into the "nest", he eventually freaks out and runs away when it becomes apparent he's about to take part in a threesome with a man (previously he was ok with a threesome with two women). This is eventually explained as jealousy, not homophobia, which I'm not sure I buy. And, once he realizes he was jealous, he is immediately able to overcome it and return to the nest. Umm, is it me, or was that too easy?

In general, I find Heinlein's characters just aren't realistic at all, and misogynist to boot. People jump from monogamy to polyamory with nary a second thought. Apparent strangers become "water-brothers" (an extremely close and trusting arrangement), without knowing the extent of the commitment, and never abandon or betray that trust? The female characters, while to their credit are often portrayed as strong & intelligent, come off more as male-fantasy versions of strong women, rather than realistic. And then there's Jubal Harshaw, Heinlein's apparent mouthpiece: seems to know everything; is independently wealthy; is a sexist, libertarian ass; and has three foxy female assistants at his beck and call.

And the dialog! WTF? While quick and often witty, it comes off as the sort of sophomoric male banter I might hear in a locker room, or some really cheesy movie. I find it detracts significantly from any larger ideas the author might be trying to present.

After two books, Heinlein has unseated Orson Scott Card as the sci-fi author that pisses me off the most.