This book started out more slowly for me than book 1. I had flashbacks to previous jobs - no, not at a super secret facility overseeing a dangerous, mysterious Area X, but in the seemingly petty infighting that happens between managers. 
 This is one of those series where it is less of a smooth line to the finish and more of an immersive experience. You're thrown off guard, question what is real and how reliable anyone can be. 
 My progression: Started w/ Hmmmm.. then went to WTH? Followed by where is this going? Ending w/ nice payoff & more questions. 
 Also, and most importantly, it left me really wanting to read book 3. 
 John, AKA "Control" is the newest Director at the SOuthern Reach. He comes from a long line of spies, but doesn't have an exemplary record. He has been brought in to replace the previous director, who happened to be the leader of the last mission to Area X. One of his tasks is to interview the surviving members of the team, and in no time his whole focus shifts to the biologist (our narrator from Annihilation). What is real, what is Area X really all about, what os happening next? We do get some answers, and yes there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, but not one that made me want to scream. This is book 2 of a trilogy and book 3 comes out in September, so I'm fine with the wait.