A trans woman scavenger named Wylla discovers a sentient AI mask containing the consciousness of a dead woman, and together they embark on a vengeful quest for answers and autonomy in a dystopian, tech-driven society. Blending action, queer romance, and philosophical explorations of identity, embodiment, and personhood, the story uses inventive animal-based technology and a distinctive second-person narrative to interrogate what it means to be human under oppressive systems.

Reader Review Summary

Set in a dystopian, tech-saturated future dominated by corporations, the novella follows Wylla, a trans woman scavenger, who discovers a rare, military-grade AI mask called MARK I HAWK on a remote planet. The mask contains the consciousness of Sable, a dead woman whose mind persists in the technology, defying the expectation that such masks do not retain memory or identity. The story is told primarily in second person, with some sections in first and first-person plural, reflecting the merging perspectives of Wylla and Sable. As Wylla and HAWK/Sable form a partnership, they embark on a quest for answers and revenge, particularly targeting Sable’s creator and ex-husband. The narrative explores themes of identity, embodiment, queerness, autonomy, and vengeance, with animal-themed masks granting users abilities like strength or heightened awareness, and a society marked by systemic transphobia, misogyny, and class stratification. The novella is the first in a planned duology and is described as action-packed, philosophical, and emotionally intense, with a focus on feminine rage and the struggle for self-determination under oppressive systems.

Readers praised the novella’s worldbuilding, especially the concept of animal-based masks that grant users specific abilities, and the integration of advanced technology into the plot. The exploration of gender, embodiment, and personhood—particularly through the lens of trans and queer experiences—was frequently highlighted as a strength, with many noting the nuanced handling of themes like bodily autonomy, trauma, and systemic oppression. The relationship between Wylla and Sable/HAWK was described as compelling, with the dynamic between a human and a sentient AI mask providing emotional depth and tension. The prose was often described as poetic or lyrical, and the novella’s brevity was seen as effective in delivering a densely packed, impactful narrative. The action sequences, philosophical questions about humanity and consciousness, and the inclusion of queer, trans, lesbian, and asexual representation were also cited as positive aspects. Several reviewers appreciated the audiobook narration and the novella’s ability to provoke thought and discussion.

Some readers found the use of second person point of view off-putting or distancing, with several stating it made emotional connection to the characters more difficult. The brevity of the novella led to criticism that the worldbuilding and character development felt underexplored or abrupt, particularly regarding the ending and the progression of the central relationship. A few reviewers felt the romance between Wylla and HAWK/Sable was unconvincing or uncomfortable, with some perceiving the dynamic as toxic or rushed. The prose style was described by some as prioritizing style over substance, and a handful of readers found the narrative confusing or the themes overly spelled out. Comparisons to other works, such as 'The Helm of Midnight,' led at least one reader to feel the core concept was not entirely original. Content warnings for violence, body horror, transphobia, and other sensitive topics were noted, and some readers were disappointed that the story was not a standalone, as it ends with unresolved plotlines.

The novella has received a moderate to positive reception, with an average rating of 3.95 out of 5 from 358 ratings and 188 full reviews. It is marketed as a sapphic, vengeful sci-fi action adventure with significant queer and trans representation, and is the first in a duology. The book is compared to works like 'Ex Machina,' 'This is How You Lose the Time War,' 'Gideon the Ninth,' and 'Ancillary Justice,' though readers noted that the similarities are more in theme or vibe than in tone or plot. The publisher has released the book without DRM, and the story contains significant content warnings for violence, trauma, and discrimination. The novella is scheduled for publication on July 22, 2025, and has generated anticipation for its sequel, with several readers expressing interest in further exploration of the world and characters.