This is a WORTHY sequel to “The First Sister,” which was itself an impressive book. To put it simply, if you enjoyed “The First Sister” even a little bit, go ahead and read this. It’s better than the original.

Linden Lewis brings us back to our own fractured, factional solar system with the same cast of characters we met last time around. Lito and Lucinia sol Lucious, Astrid, and (my favorite) Hiro val Akira are back, and we have some dynamic new characters on the block, too. Lewis delivers the same well-executed format of rotating narrators as interlocking stories unfold in real time across the system.

Pros compared to the first novel: with much of the heavy lifting already done on the world-building, Lewis has room to delve into more color and minute detail. We learn a lot more about the Asters, the Synthetics, and the Sisterhood, and while Space Epics have been done a thousand times, Lewis’ approach feels fresh. Character work is great, NONE of the plotline a dragged for me, and the ending felt more satisfying. Plus, there was a really great reveal right at the end of the book! One that was extra enjoyable because I could have seen it coming based on what came before, but did not. That’s the best kind of reveal.

One of the marks of quality in Lewis’ storytelling is how frequently my own allegiances changed sides, as a reader. Characters who I earnestly rooted for across hundreds of pages made believable, difficult choices that harmed other characters I cared about, causing me to frequently reassess my feelings. I loved that!

All told, I am totally in on this series. I’m sad there is only one book to go, but I’m starting it right away!