An eccentric cast takes precedence over intergalactic action in the space opera mystery that opens the Folding Space series. As the only human capable of “clocking,” the ability to fold space to allow for travel between galaxies, Saree Ia’asan is being pursued by a bounty hunter from the Familia mafia. To escape, she hops a Lightwave Fold Transport and poses as a Centauri University student. When the crew’s chef is poisoned, it quickly becomes clear that Saree is not the only one on board with a secret. The suspects in this locked-room mystery in space include perfume trader Al-Kindi; snobbish aristocrat Lady Vulten; opera singer Borgia; and a pair of elite body guards whose genes are spliced with turtle DNA. Saree attempts to unveil the murderer, maintain her cover, and figure out who she can trust in a twisting plot that leaves a few too many loose ends. Though the worldbuilding is impressive, the futuristic technology remains frustratingly vague. Sci-fi fans will be gratified by the appealing alien characters and plethora of pop-culture references, but disappointed by dropped narrative threads and intrusive exposition. (Self-published.)