Summary:

"The Sea Eternal" by Emery Robin is the second book in the "Empire Without End" series, serving as a sequel to "The Stars Undying." Set in a sprawling space opera universe, the story continues to explore themes of power, betrayal, and epic love against the backdrop of interstellar politics. After the death of Matheus Ceirran, who once commanded half the known galaxy, his loyal captain Anita is on a relentless quest for vengeance against his assassins. Meanwhile, she is entangled in a complex relationship with Altagracia Caviro Patramata, the queen and oracle of Szayet. Anita's journey takes her across borders into a mysterious neighboring empire where she stumbles upon a secret that could destabilize the entire galaxy. Back in the capital, Ceirran’s heir, Otávio Julhan, consolidates power, adding layers of political intrigue to the narrative.

The novel delves into the emotional and philosophical ramifications of immortality, power dynamics, and the cost of revenge. It weaves together historical and mythological references, reimagining them in a futuristic setting, with characters that are both grand and deeply personal in their struggles.

Detailed Review:

Plot and World-Building:

Emery Robin’s storytelling in "The Sea Eternal" is both expansive and intricate. The world-building is rich with a detailed backdrop of planets and societies, each with their unique customs and histories. The plot maintains the momentum from the first book, adding layers of complexity through Anita's journey and the political machinations in the capital. The narrative sometimes feels sprawling, but it's this very scope that provides a sense of epic storytelling. However, the pacing can occasionally falter under the weight of its own ambition.


Characters:

The characters in Robin's universe are compelling, with Anita's dual nature as a fierce warrior and a lover caught in a web of affection being particularly well-explored. The development of Otávio Julhan is fascinating, offering a new perspective on leadership and legacy. The relationship between Anita and Altagracia is painted with both passion and tension, though some might find the emotional depth occasionally overshadowed by the plot's broader strokes. The cast is diverse, with a casual inclusion of various sexual orientations, enriching the universe without making it the sole focus.


Writing Style:

Robin's prose is eloquent and imbued with a poetic quality that elevates the narrative. The dialogue is sharp, often laced with political and philosophical undertones that reflect the characters’ complex identities and motivations. However, the frequent shifts in perspective can sometimes disrupt the narrative flow, demanding a reader's full attention to keep up with the intricacies of the plot.


Themes and Messages:

The novel tackles themes of imperialism, identity, the morality of power, and the personal vs. the political. It questions whether immortality is a blessing or a curse, exploring this through the lens of duty and personal freedom. The use of mythological and historical parallels is clever, breathing new life into familiar stories.


Conclusion:

"The Sea Eternal" is a thoughtful sequel that broadens the scope of its predecessor while deepening the emotional stakes of its characters. It's a novel that rewards patience and attention, providing a rich tapestry of interstellar politics and personal drama. While it has moments where it struggles under its own narrative weight, the overall experience is captivating, making it a commendable addition to the space opera genre.

Ratings Breakdown:

Plot: 4/5 - Ambitious and engaging, though sometimes too complex for its own good.
Characters: 4/5 - Complex, well-developed, and emotionally resonant.
World-Building: 4/5 - Imaginative and detailed, creating a vivid universe.
Writing Style: 4/5 - Beautifully written, though occasionally dense.
Themes: 5/5 - Deeply explored with relevance to both the story and broader philosophical questions.
Overall: 4/5 - A robust and thoughtful sequel that, while not without flaws, adds significantly to its saga.

This was a great book!!!! I like the way the author writes and tells a story. I like the themes that were covered, and I definitely want a follow up to this book! I will be keeping an eye out now for a sequel!!! I loved it


Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, and to the publisher for this complementary ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!