Reviews

Really fun read, though not as mind-blowing as her first trilogy. I liked seeing part of the rest of the universe. The one Radchaai character was pretty funny and gave some good context to the Ancillary series. Gender and culture stuff was fun and thoughtful. The romance subplots were undeveloped though.

catinaflatcap's review against another edition

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adventurous medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

thedadsie's review against another edition

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emotional mysterious tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Don't read this book expecting it to be like the Ancillary novels. It was a big departure for a spin-off book in the same universe. This one is about political intrigue and sibling rivalry. I think if I'd read it as a standalone book, I might have enjoyed it more, but I came in expecting something at least resembling the first three books in this universe. The protagonist is a sort of agonized potential heir looking to make a name for herself to gain political favor for their mother. The book really does drag out some of the politicking and behind-the-scenes intrigue. It's a slog.

venealosille's review against another edition

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adventurous medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes

3.5

george_tte's review against another edition

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adventurous inspiring lighthearted reflective tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

Ann Leckie is a master of sci-fi. She explores actual fun, interesting topics with a mix of well-built characters and fun plot. If you’re thinking of reading this after finishing the Ancilliary series and hesitating because it’s a different cast of characters/world — go for it!

rpmagee's review against another edition

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adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

preservationaux's review against another edition

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adventurous inspiring fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

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