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A review by straylight
A Desolation Called Peace by Arkady Martine
4.0
While I don't think it resonated with quite the same epic draw of the first one, this book was still intriguing, and added considerably to the story. The beautiful themes of the Teixcalaan civilizaiton continued to be on display, along with the complicated relationship of their empire to things such as the space station from which Mahit originates and to a newly discovered alien species with whom communication proves difficult. Even the struggle for power within the empire continues to be a theme, though in a more subdued fashion for most of this sequel.
I appreciated Martine's willingness to consider the possibilities of what other species we might encounter may be like, and how that initial contact may flounder. There are inherent risks to such meetings, and she touches on several of them.
Overall the story was quite satisfying to read, and again, leaves you in a place where you are satisfied with the story-arc, but might appreciate more if it were forthcoming. No major cliffhangers here. Definitely worth the read.
I appreciated Martine's willingness to consider the possibilities of what other species we might encounter may be like, and how that initial contact may flounder. There are inherent risks to such meetings, and she touches on several of them.
Overall the story was quite satisfying to read, and again, leaves you in a place where you are satisfied with the story-arc, but might appreciate more if it were forthcoming. No major cliffhangers here. Definitely worth the read.