This must be the most tender science fiction that I've read to date and I mean it in the best way possible.

I absolutely loved how the author balanced out so many elements: from a meshwork of political intrigue to a slow-burn romance and a prospective murder mystery, all while fitting them neatly into an intricately built world. I also loved how gracefully they handled such a heavy theme like abuse without turning it into a character trait. Following Kiem's and Jainan's growth into better versions of themselves and onto each other was equally gratifying as watching an interplanetary conspiracy unfold. I highly recommend.