Another enjoyable Sun Eater novella, probably my second favorite of the three behind Queen Amid Ashes. Lorian Aristedes is a fantastic character, so it was great to get inside his head. Both to see firsthand his perspective and experience as an intus, and to see more of his distinct personality and intelligence. 

I've also been intrigued by Belusha ever since it was first mentioned, so it was nice to see the Imperial prison planet and it's operations. It's certainly a desolate and vile place, full of despicable people; much of that was not pleasant to read.

Though portions of the plot were not always the most engaging, the side characters actually were, and the conflicts they stirred about with Lorian with different types of depravity. Lorian was always in danger because of the people around him, and that created a sufficient sense of tension.  (Also gotta mention one side character, Jeff, named by Ruocchio in honor of my friend for a Kickstarter thing, so that was cool to finally read.)

Again, an enjoyable novella, enhancing the depth of the Sun Eater universe. I'm at the point now where anything Christopher Ruocchio writes is simply a joy to read.