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Reading this book is akin to taking a deep dive into a richly-fabricated speculative world, filled with interesting and intricate creatures, ideas and characters, and defined by an entirely new language. (Note: the author includes a very helpful glossary).

Touching on many philosophical ideas and a whole host of mindful offshoots (a plus, for this reader, but not, perhaps, for all ) this is not a quick read, or one without challenges, but in the view of this reviewer, is a read worth every minute.

The world as described is urban, and initially not perceived as all that different from our own, but is quickly revealed to be guided, under the covers, by a collective (really a sort of secret society) of “Saints”, – human members of the ancient Ohm ce Alfa, who are responsible for the governance of morality, religion, and the related behaviour of humankind.

The collective operates with the help of multiple species of vivid and strange genetically-engineered creatures (generally known as d’oren) and other centuries-old technologies and tools (all of which are beautifully rendered, visually rich, and inventive).

Without giving the plot away (and what a multilayered and fantastical world this is), the story follows several young potential heirs to the Ohm ce Alfa – considering their options as they step up to assume responsibility for individual family lines covering global human innovation, knowledge, nature, trade, communication, and war.

Touching on existential and philosophical themes including: what makes us human; God vs religion; female disparity and power; bigotry; ‘rightness’ vs morality; and the oppressive reach of responsibility – the author builds a world as thoughtful as it is immersive.

With a twisty ending (amidst some still unanswered questions), this book is the first in a new series that is destined to be a treat for lovers of urban fantasy, science and literary fiction.

A great big thank you to Netgalley and the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.

***This book will be published Feb 27, 2024