I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. But then I remembered that I like to collect paperback copies of Star Wars books, so I went out and bought one. I regretted it.

Alphabet Squadron is back - and it's no less ragtag or more coordinated than it was before. Quell continues to hide her war crimes from her own people, knowing that they will lose all faith in her once they found out what she has done. An attempt to trap Shadow Wing once and for all may end the conflict or it might just cost the squadron everything.

Alexander Freed's one main strength is his ability to write military engagements. I've always enjoyed that about his books, especially Twilight Company (which I consider his best). But his characters are secondary to this and always feel a tad flat and unapproachable. The first book in this series wasn't perfect, though it showed a lot of promise in developing the characters. This time I just didn't like any of them.

A frustrating bridging sequel with far more B story than an actual A story.

I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

​Sun, the heir to the queen-marshal of Chaonia, is a hero in her own right - but her passage to power will not be easy. Her collection of Companions and "cee-cees" will prove invaluable as she fights to stay alive, darts through political intrigue, uncovers awful truths AND saves the Republic of Chaonia.

There are some good bones to this story and the world-building has resulted in an intriguing setting that I enjoyed falling into - once the awkward, confusing start was over and done with, that is. The first 20% of this book feels superfluous and we're constantly introduced to new POVs without any seamless transition (and only one of them is in first person, for some reason). It's slow going. I nearly DNFed. But as soon as thing get going, they REALLY get going. I had a blast following Sun and co. from peril to peril. What a ride.

I found this book entertaining at times, though it's not without problems - the most major one being that Sun and her POV just aren't very interesting and she's supposed to be the main character! However, the other characters - Persephone especially!!! I love her - do make up for this.

Before I get into my review, I have exciting news! Samantha Marshall has generally accepted my invitation for an author Q&A, which you'll find at the bottom. :D

Review
Ever since she was soulmerged with Caelum, a dearken who speaks (and he speaks his own mind pretty often!), Arcana has been unable to find a place among her own people - or indeed anywhere. But then she meets Fenris, an injured Guardian from the Timeless Kingdom. Arcana's unusual magic may just be the key to saving Fenris' home - and maybe even the entire galaxy.

This reminded me of retro space/fantasy adventures - and that's a good thing! I've always had a soft spot for magic and stars sharing the same setting. Arcana is the snarkiest, kick-arse heroine since Aelin Galathynius (but a lot more mature!) and I adore Caelum. He had a particularly touching journey that I won't spoil, because it was really quite lovely. The storyline also took some delightfully unexpected turns.

I do think, however, that this might have been better as two books instead of one.

Click "read more" for a Q&A with the author!