This books started so FAST and maintained a whirlwind pace until the end. I wish there were some more moments where it slowed down so that I could connect with the characters a bit more. Touches on many real world issues such as the lingering effects of colonization of Africa, race tensions, children soldiers, and civil wars. Loved the LGBTQ themes and the representation of a Sci-fy outside of a white Eurocentric realm.