A fascinating and action-packed speculative story from NKJ, and while this didn't emotionally level me like The Fifth Season/Broken Earth, I really enjoyed this almost comic-book-esque avatar battle for the city of New York. Even as someone unfamiliar with the unique cultural histories of the boroughs (as an Ohioan who has only experienced New York in a few visits!), I could appreciate how well-drawn these characters were and how nuanced this allegory became through their comradery, competition, conflict and outright collision. Looking forward to the second book/conclusion!