"An honest, compelling tale of the human cost of war and the fight that occurs when war ends and redemption begins." - New York Journal of Books "Delivers the mild, pleasing-though-antiquated satisfactions of a World War II movie." - Washington Independent Review of Books "Rarely does historical fiction get everything so right as Universe of Two: compelling characters, faithful detail, a story packed with unexpected twists, and a sure, authentic voice that never wavers. In this novel of the dawn of the atomic age and its profound consequences, Stephen Kiernan leads us along a journey of conscience as complex and infinite as the science itself." - Beatriz Williams, New York Times bestselling author of The Golden Hour "Based loosely on the life of mathematician and organ-maker Charles B. Fisk, this fascinating novel delves into the guilt and remorse that wracked him for his part in the development of the atomic bomb. The two main characters are complex and flawed, but when they come together, their world is in harmony." - Library Journal "Kiernan recreates the zeitgeist of America leading up to the atomic bomb on a national and personal level: the eager anticipation of wartime's end, the grimly fascinating science, and the growing sense of guilt and dread.
Simultaneously tender and hard-hitting, this riveting story offers much to reflect upon." - Booklist "A great read. Stephen P. Kiernan writes with heart and humor . [and] manages to balance serious historical questions and ethical issues with lively characters, sharp dialogue, and marvelous historical detail." - Historical Novel Society "Universe of Two skillfully educates, entertains and enlightens as great historical fiction should . Masterfully researched and exquisitely told." - The Patriot Ledger "Charlie and Brenda's choices imply that harmony (in music and in love) can be every bit as powerful as splitting the atom.
It's a history lesson contemporary leaders would do well to remember." - Seven Days "Stephen Kiernan has pulled off the nearly impossible, reminding us by wrapping a war story in a love story that although we hold the power for our own extinction, we also have the power to redeem, heal, and save. The most tender, terrifying, relevant book you'll read this year." - Jenna Blum, New York Times bestselling author of Those Who Save Us and The Lost Family.