While Crownchasers is a fun, action-packed space romp, Thronebreakers is downright devastating. I was foolishly not prepared for this nail-biting, heart-wrenching sequel.

Final impressions:
• This book starts out with Alyssa vying for vengeance against the soon-to-be-crowned emperor. However, as the story progresses, her selfish goal and narrow perspective are repeatedly challenged, allowing her to fully recognize the inequitable power structures of the empire itself and develop a genuine desire to dismantle it for the greater good.
• Still a very action-driven plot but balanced with enough character maturation (see above).
• Still loving the easy banter among the characters.
• Hell Monkey being an unapologetic simp for a snarky, unhinged adrenaline junkie - we love to see it.
• More political machinations, more intensity, and more "pew! pew! pew!"
• Acknowledges the power of media (particularly news publications) in times of political turmoil and war. (Always a plus point.)
• Fair warning that this book is A LOT darker than the first installment - with depictions of grief, loss, and trauma.
• From hardheaded heroines throwing themselves into danger to teens toppling tyrannical governments, Thronebreakers has all the staple elements that make YA sci-fi very well-loved. However, its delivery is truly unmatched, unapologetically going above and beyond to tell the story in a nuanced, refreshing light. And it is satisfying as fuck.

Final verdict:
Highly recommended!