A review by meghanreadsmm
Empire of Light by Alex Harrow

5.0

This was an excellent, engaging, fast-paced story! Fascinating main characters, interesting but dark dystopian world, well-written. It's a fast-paced, action-packed, espionage-filled science fantasy novel. So it works if you're expecting that. The main character is an assassin-for-hire and works for whoever pays him. He tries to avoid the politics. He has his small found-family and wants them protected. But he's about to be swept up in major political intrigue with a lot of action along the way. Psychic abilities exist in this world but have a heavy cost. Meanwhile the militaristic empire is getting worse.

I thought it was well-written because I was engaged pretty consistently. I didn't get bored of the scenes, the character interactions, the twists, any of it. If you're a crier (like me sometimes), have some tissue handy

Spoiler

, you will probably cry in some parts because this book also has a few very lovable side characters who end up ripped away in acts of devastating brutality

.

So there is a LOT of action and a lot of intrigue. Characters change and switch sides, relationships are in flux and uncertain. There were also a number of queer characters in here which I liked. But the way some of them are first worked in was a tiny bit forced. Afterwards it's not so much of a 'thing'.

Overall a fulfilling reading experience. Hopefully there's more to explore in this world

Spoiler

especially with the new regime or perhaps it the evil medical researchers who need some take down. :D

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