I went into this blind but was pleasantly surprised. There’s not too much world building but for the most part, it’s easy to understand the universe this is set in and the dynamics of the different species within the galaxy.

The MMC is the typical arrogant alpha-male who doesn’t understand why he feels a pull towards the FMC but covets her nonetheless. The FMC isn’t a doormat, but she also isn’t a badass in the typical sense. She’s just normal with sass and a spine. It’s kind of refreshing to read about a normal FMC. Unfortunately, this also means she doesn’t necessarily stand out and it feels like there’s nothing special about her. But that might be the point that I have missed.

The spice is OK- scratches the itch this story creates. The majority of the focus is on the overarching story and political intrigue happening on the MMC’s home planet. That part of the story is interesting and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

TBH, I never truly felt invested in the relationship between Tarak and Abbey. With some of the trials and tribulations they faced, I should have (in theory) felt deeper about them but there was something still superficial about their interactions and their love scenes felt more like casual sex and less like love making.