I was looking forward to returning to the Old Man's War universe, but was left somewhat disappointed by this novel. I liked how it expands the lore around the Consu. The sci-fi elements of the plot were clever, and though contrived at times, the plot as a whole makes sense. I also liked where it takes the general state of affairs in the universe. The book works well as the next instalment in the broader space opera series.

When it comes to characters, Gretchen is a typical Scalzian protagonist: witty, smart, capable. Even her arrogance is justified. She more-less wins for 288 pages and then the story ends. Her perspective is fun, but as a character she feels boring.

The rest of the ensemble is comically weak at times. Characters that are supposed to be top tier professionals or superior beings end up bickering like children. It ruined the book for me. Having half of the cast, including antagonists, be total doofuses breaks the emersion.