A review by craftyhilary
Claimings, Tails, and Other Alien Artifacts by Lyn Gala

emotional funny hopeful reflective slow-paced

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

5.0

The series is my biggest find of 2024 so far. Liam has survived a troubled home life and years of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse in the sex trade and under unscrupulous military commanders. He trains as a linguist and escapes the front to work as a trader on an alien planet. Ondry is a local trader who befriends Liam and helps him improve his language and cultural skills. The two form a strong connection. When Liam's new commander puts him at risk, Ondry steps in to help. This book is a deep exploration of an alien society and an unlikely bond between two people from vastly different backgrounds. The deftness with which Liam and Ondry's relationship is woven into the study of Rownt culture is remarkable. A huge five star read I've consumed with both eyes and ears so far this year. John Solo is a sometimes-good, sometimes-not narrator for me, but he really shines throughout this series.