Assessment:

Plot: The plot, while it has many sparkling moments, can also come across as a confusing scrum of factions, characters, and arcane terminology. These elements can somewhat undermine the storyline, especially as events reach their climax.

Prose: The writing is lively and capably maintains several separate, but connected, plot arcs featuring distinct voices. 

Originality: This novel expertly formulates a magic system based on scientific principles. It holds together rather well, with more fantastical elements like psychic mind control feeling right at home next to arcane radiation.

Character/Execution: The highlight here is Aka'weyo, who makes for a credible, threatening villain, though his status as a hired gun without much obvious personal stake in the plot hinders him a bit. Other characters are sometimes charming, like Gabriel the medic, but there are so many named characters that they start to blend together.

Date Submitted: August 15, 2022