Lieutenant Alexis Carew, recovering from injuries and political fallout on her homeworld, is unexpectedly summoned by the Queen and must navigate a perilous journey to the capital as first mate on a troubled freighter, facing sabotage, danger, and old enemies along the way. Themes of resilience, loyalty, and navigating royal intrigue drive this character-focused, spacefaring adventure that marks a long-awaited return to the series.

Reader Review Summary

After a long-awaited return, J.A. Sutherland has once again delivered an immensely satisfying installment in the beloved Alexis Carew series. "A Brief, Interminable Peace" is a triumphant comeback that reminds readers why they fell in love with this steampunk space opera in the first place.

From the outset, Sutherland deftly reintroduces us to the plucky and indomitable Lieutenant Alexis Carew, immediately thrusting her into a new web of royal intrigue and interstellar peril. The author's deft worldbuilding and rich descriptions make the universe feel tangible, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in Alexis's adventures across the stars. Sutherland's characterization remains a highlight, with Alexis's resilience, quick-thinking, and unwavering moral compass shining through in every action-packed escapade.

The narrative propels forward with Sutherland's trademark blend of political maneuverings, high-stakes action sequences, and a dash of delightfully snarky wit courtesy of the ever-charismatic protagonist. Longtime fans will revel in the reappearance of beloved characters, while new readers will find Alexis an instantly compelling and relatable hero to root for. The pacing is pitch-perfect, striking an ideal balance between thrilling plot developments, poignant character moments, and tantalizing foreshadowing that leaves you desperate for the next installment.

Perhaps most impressively, Sutherland manages to not only recapture the spark that made the early Alexis Carew novels so engaging but also seems reinvigorated after his hiatus. The prose is tighter, the world even more fleshed out, and Alexis herself has grown in nuanced and organic ways that will resonate with longtime fans. "A Brief, Interminable Peace" serves as a stellar return to form while also laying exciting groundwork for future tales.

In the end, this novel is a sheer delight for any lover of rousing sci-fi adventures with depth, wit, and heart. Sutherland's deft narrative skills and imaginative worldbuilding are on full display, but it's his creation of the indefatigable Alexis Carew that makes this series truly soar. With beautifully rendered action, an undercurrent of genuine emotional stakes, and a sharp satirical bent, "A Brief, Interminable Peace" is sure to leave readers thoroughly entertained and anxiously awaiting Alexis's next thrilling expedition among the stars. It's a spectacular comeback for one of the most engaging protagonists in modern sci-fi.