After their daring escape at the end of Carve the Mark (2016), Cyra and Akos find themselves in a complicated situation. Ryzek is dead; his final act of cruelty stoked even further conflict with the Thuvhesit; and the resulting power vacuum and instability are opportunities wealthier, more influential civilizations are eager to capitalize on. Cyra and Akos, meanwhile, are in exile on a planet shrouded in darkness, trying to figure out their blossoming relationship as well as their own responsibilities as violence and interplanetary conflict loom ever closer. The expansive world Roth introduced in the series opener gets even bigger in this sequel, with a bevy of additional characters, deepened secrets, and complex interplanetary politics coming into play. Even for readers of the first book, it's a lot to keep track of and occasionally dilutes the overall plot arc, but Roth's fans will be eager for a conclusion to Cyra and Akos' story, and with neatly tied up loose ends by the finish, they are likely to be satisfied.

With Cyra's father, tyrant Lazmet Noavek, back in power, Cyra and Akos flee their planet on the brink of war. Cyra and Akos seek allies, hoping to prevent more bloodshed, but the lovers are still confronted with their inevitable fates. With additional narrative voices, including that of Akos's sister, Cisi, this strong sequel to Carve the Mark expands to new worlds, new revelations, and new emotional depths.