I had a very hard time getting past the first five chapters in this story:  I’m not particularly fond of present tense and its use in Dark Matters jarred me.  The extensive use of passive was also a factor, but I found that easier to overlook. 

But what kept me from really identifying with the story was, I think, the constant "head hopping"—you know, where you get a glimpse of all the thoughts/emotions of each character constantly—a form of omniscience if you will. 

This happened extensively in the first five chapters.  However the omniscience seems to dwindle off a little bit as the story continues, to my profound relief. 

It was easier to look past those aspects when I discovered the FAQ answer in which the author explains why the story is written that way.  I did not personally feel the sense of "now" that the author attempted to portray, but I suspect that has more to do with my personal taste than Gibbons’ skill.

The story itself is intriguing.  It was different than normal apocalyptic tales and that was rather refreshing.  The author has obviously done his homework and I admire that kind of dedication. 

Their survival is, of course, at stake but that theme, that aspect, is not the spotlight:  gender and personal rights are. 

And that is very nice to see.

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