★★★★ ½ @HunterFaith @LetsTalkLTP #JunkyardBargain
What a rush! After reading the first book which was a bit much on techie terminology, this book is all about action. I really enjoyed this book. Heather aka Shining is in a race against time to save her a mutual friend. This will require high caliber weapons and a ton of ammo. I recommend reading the first book before reading this one for a better experience. Ms. Hunter does a great job of providing baseline events and concepts introduced in the first book. It's still better to read the details first hand.
I liked this book because for me, there is great tension building as well as character development. Shining is showing more of her personality just as the thralls surrounding and multiplying around her are starting to become a bit more independent. This dystopian world gives a sort of Mad Max feel mixed with a cyperpunk backdrop. I love it. I also love the Queen concept because it ties to bees and reminds me of the Borg Queen.
The sci-fi part of this story really appeals to me. I love all the tech. I love the weapons. The suits, computers and how the Shining adapts to the changes excites me. I know she doesn't like creating thralls but if I were to become a thrall, I'd want her to be my Queen. Although truth be told, I'd rather be a Queen. I don't know if I would be as controlled as Shining who doesn't want to rule the world nonetheless a city. Shining is right that ruling comes with more headaches than warranted.
With Shining's mission to acquire the weapons, she makes new allies, experiences betrayal, and doles out vengeance. I like Shining because she has a can do attitude. She attacks each obstacle and problem with determined focus. She is not perfect because she can be hurt and taken down. This makes her more human even if she is other. She is learning more and more about her changes and how she impacts those around her. Some of my favourite interactions are between Shining and her cats. Spy the cat is precocious and adorable.
Ms. Faith masterfully weaves in action, romance, sexual tension, remorse, and humour. The timing of the humour is excellent. One of my favourite ones is during a rescue mission near the end. One of the victims makes a comment that just made me burst out laughing.
After reading this book, I can't wait to see what happens next. This series is unique, exciting, and a page turner. I highly recommend this to sci-fi readers who like strong females with a heart of gold.
* I was given an arc by Let's Talk Promotions
