Medusa in the Graveyard

Oichi Angelis started a revolution against the Executive ruling class aboard the Generation Ship Olympia, with the help of an AI unit called Medusa. The real work comes now that they’ve “won”.The first book had a somewhat familiar premise: a “chosen one” rebels against a dystopian oppressive regime. However, the seeds were planted for more expansive worldbuilding that bears fruit in this sequel. The story opens with the ship Merlin requesting permission to dock on Olympia and parlay with the new leaders, including Oichi. The crew have been hired to bring a message from the mysterious Weapons Clan, the foundation of the Executives’ power. When Medusa overrules Oichi’s determination to kill them, it sets in motion a dangerous game of politics. As Olympia enters the Charon system on route to the planet Graveyard, new players enter the field. Who is Timmy and what is the origin of her deadly technology? Is Fire on their side, or playing her own game? Oichi discovers that she and her people are much more than they seem. Their ability to bond with Medusas and interface with biotechnology has its origins on Graveyard – where The Three await her arrival. Medusa fears waking these immense sentient ships, and Oichis unconcern about doing so begins to drive a wedge between them.In addition to greatly expanding on the worldbuilding (the sentient ships of Graveyard is a very cool concept), and continuing the underlying musical theme, this sequel also further develops other characters, albeit through Oichi’s first person POV. Ashur, in particular, takes on a critical role in the plot and the crew of the Merlin bring a welcome outside perspective. The only noticeably underdeveloped bit is the Weapons clan, but since their leader isn’t the true “villain” of the story that wasn’t a big issue.Medusa in the Graveyard has one of those rare, perfect conclusions: if there is no more to come, it’s incredibly satisfying. But there is potential for future stories that I really hope to come to be. I love the world Devenport has created here; Oishi and Medusa are a unique set of protagonists. This duology reminds me a little of McCaffrey’s Sassinak series. The universe is full of societies that have their own agendas, and it can be minefield for a rebel assassin to adapt to be a diplomat and negotiator. Overall, this was an engrossing read and I look forward to further adventures in this universe. Perhaps with Ashur as the narrator. Highly recommended.

I read the 1st and it was enthralling so 2nd one really cleared up alot of questions!!