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As someone not usually drawn to fantasy/sci-fi genre fusions, I had reservations about diving into this latest series by Will Wight. However, he has proven time and again to be a master of imaginative world-building who can make seemingly disparate elements work together seamlessly. This offering delivers on that promise in spades.
Wight has a knack for expansive yet cohesive universes, and this novel’s blend of fantasy and sci-fi creates ample opportunities for diverse, engaging settings. The sci-fi components don’t undermine the integrity of the fantasy, or vice versa. On the contrary, both genres complement each other nicely here.
This inaugural book deviates from Wight’s past work like Cradle or House of Blades, where characters start as unworldly novices. Instead, the players in this saga already boast well-developed powers, histories, and motivations from page one. However, introducing the entire ensemble (six unique personas) simultaneously felt overwhelming.
A sizeable chunk of the narrative is dedicated to showcasing each figure’s abilities. Despite Wight’s talent for charismatic characterization, covering so many key players at once slows the momentum. There was potential to have them trickle into the story more organically as the Captain’s journey necessitates their distinct traits. But they coalesce abruptly instead via contrived magical means.
Nevertheless, this remains a thoroughly enjoyable and imaginative adventure true to Wight’s pedigree. I aim for balanced critiques rather than gushing praise, so I hope these honest reflections prove useful as you consider diving in!
