Navigating the Stars

I really loved the premise of this novel -- that the Terracotta Warriors were a collaborative venture between the Chinese people of ancient history and mysterious aliens. And I think that the author takes it some interesting places.

This is very much a "teenager is so much smarter and better at a lot of things than all of the experienced adults around her" novel, and occasionally the banter between the main character and her romantic interest verges into a bit twee. Having said that, the characterization, the worldbuilding, and the plot are good enough that I read the whole thing (which is no small accomplishment, given that I generally find YA books less enjoyable), and will probably pick up the sequel.