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Cindy McBride asked this question about Too Like the Lightning (Terra Ignota, #1):
Ummm, so does this book imply approval or disapproval of divergent gender identities and the validity (or lack thereof) of religion? Answers will determine whether or not I'll be interested in reading. Thanks!
Kim The society is officially gender-neutral (although some parts less than others) but the book repeatedly makes the claim that centuries of gender-based…moreThe society is officially gender-neutral (although some parts less than others) but the book repeatedly makes the claim that centuries of gender-based stereotyping has been hard to wash away. The society has no gendered pronouns, for instance.

The narrator, who is flouting the gender-neutral status quo by doing such things as using gendered pronouns, defines gender (generally) by stereotypical behaviours and not sex organs, so a 'She' might have any biology/chemistry/etc. but may be more likely to belong to a certain society. Another character presents as agender in a way that far outstrips the common way of understanding that in society, and uses that ambiguity powerfully to their advantage. There are also groups who deliberately flout the gender-neutral norm, but are not looked down upon for it.

The majority of characters make no claims as to religious truth and those that do are extremely controversial. The general attitude isn't "this is or is not valid," but "do try to ask questions." (less)
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Too Like the Lightning
by Ada Palmer (Goodreads Author)
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