Ahoy there me mateys!  I received this sci-fi eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  While I try to post no spoilers, if ye haven’t read the first book then ye might want to skip this post. If ye keep reading this log then ye have been forewarned and continue at yer own peril . . .

I really enjoyed book one of this series but was worried because a lot of of the details had faded by the time I picked up book two.  I gave meself a quick refresher by reading me review of aftershocks and jumped back in.  No worries, this was fun and engrossing.

While the blurb makes it seem that Aden is the only character, really this series has multiple points of view.  Ye follow four folks:

Aden - a POW from the losing side of the battle who is released five years after defeat to start anew;
Idina - a soldier from the winning side who holds a grudge, she is part of the occupying military force on the defeated planet;
Dunstan - a member of the winning naval space fleet whose simple guard duty turns into a mess with epic ramifications; and
Solvieg - a civilian who was a minor during the war now has to deal with the consequences of her planet's loss and what it means for the family business.

Marko Kloos writes excellent popcorn sci-fi with characters that shine.  One of the best parts about this series is that the characters are from different planets and backgrounds.  In this installment ye get to see more of six worlds and other character perspectives and I loved feeling that the worldview has expanded.  There is enough action without sacrificing character development.  And I loved how the characters' lives intersect without seeming forced.  They come together and then diverge again in fun ways.  I kept changing me mind about who me favorite character was (including minor characters).  I love that!

Again these books end on rather abrupt notes that still set up what's to come.  Some readers might not enjoy that type of ending.  Just like with the first book, I ended this with a "Dang it!  I want more!"  I will avidly be waiting for the next installment and will pick it up as soon as it is released.  Arrrr!

So lastly . . .

Thank you 47 North!