This sequel picks up where Zodiac (2014) left off, finding Rhoma Grace of the Cancrians alone and abandoned in a Capricorn refugee camp. After failing as a diplomat, she seems destined to be a lowly aid worker, cleaning up the evil Marad terrorists' mess and nervously awaiting more attacks. In her search for the mysterious thirteenth sign, Rho is reliving other people's memories, finding them littered with death and destruction, with no sign of hope for the Zodiac system's people. Russell's excellent writing has only gotten better: her descriptions are deep and lush, her heroes fully formed and sympathetic. Read or reread Zodiac first for a more complete enjoyment of this title.

Rhoma Grace (Zodiac), disgraced leader of House Cancer, wrestles with guilt and self-doubt in the aftermath of her planet's destruction. Cryptic messages from her enemy, Ophiuchus, and a series of terrorist attacks throughout the galaxy force Rho to rejoin the fight for unity among the Twelve Houses. With its well-integrated zodiac elements, budding astrologists will devour this thought-provoking, romantic space opera.

Few believed Rho when she pronounced that Ophiuchus would return to wreak havoc. But the truth is undeniable, and the Master is not done with the Zodiac. Rho is quickly drawn into the conflict and must find those she can trust to help her. Trying to have faith in herself, Rho must lead her supporters even if it means losing more of the people she loves. A risky mission puts Rho close to the Master but leaves her broken and questioning if she can reconcile her feelings for her former boyfriend and commit to her new love, Hysan. Facing down failure and disaster, Rho is able to finally glean the information that helps her unite the ruling council and sets everyone on a course to prepare for battle.Russell's conception of a galaxy where the signs of the zodiac govern life is rich and well imagined. The setting is lush, revealing amazing technologies and vivid landscapes. The constant shift between places allows the reader to more fully explore the sumptuous world Russell creates. However, the depth of the world-building does not carry over into the plot or the characters. While exciting, the plot revisits issues frequently, giving the entire novel a lack of forward momentum. The characters also convey science fiction stereotypes with a girl who faces her weakness to take responsibility and a love triangle that keeps her emotions in turmoil. However, there certainly is fan appeal here that will fulfill the "what's next" cravings of genre readers.Rachel Wadham.