This book explored the “ancient advanced civilization” trope like Elder Race, but focused in on how the changes made for humanity to thrive were in fact the only way they could survive.

It was such a mistake to start this book in the evening! What I intended to be quick reading session turned into a binge as I read into the late hours.

I enjoyed Iron Widow for how fresh and raw it felt as a narrative, though the first book was paced at breakneck speed.

I liked seeing the different writing styles between the two MC povs.

The only other Tchaikovsky book I’ve read so far is Cage of Souls, and this honestly feels like a redux of some of the elements that didn’t get a chance to play out much in that book. It definitely feels related, these two books are sisters.