While the characterization is brief (again, a la Doyle), the characters are succinct and unique. The story is not so much about the individuals, or even about the plot - normally, two of my prerequisites for an excellent read - as it is about the individuals uncovering the mystery presented. And while the storyline itself is mostly straight-forward sleuthing (with a lot of grunt-work on the part of the narrator), the final unveiling is definitely a "wow" moment.
McDevitt has no trouble incorporating "science fiction" into the novel - the astrophysics he presents is well thought out and believable even as it is fantastic, and he effortlessly references the larger world and its culture and technologies without bogging down the story being told.
All in all, Seeker is a very successful effort, accomplishing exactly what I believe the author meant to do.
