Trying to remember the name of the author and the protagonists but there is a vast galactoscape (just invented that) that explores String Theory and the possibility of a multilayered (timewise) existance in a Black Hole. There were mysterious black interstellar ships that seemed to be killing off all intelligence - the Xeeli. Might be worth a look if that is the way you like to learn stuff ... tried googling to find the books and the author - but no luck

Post limit. I don't think a second thread is needed, since the topic has drifted far away from anything that is in order here.