Light in the Abyss, the third installment in Bennett R. Coles’ Blackwood and Virtue series, takes readers on a thrilling journey aboard the spacefaring frigate Daring and her escort ship Freedom. The narrative centers on Lord Commander Liam Blackwood and Quartermaster Amelia Virtue as they embark on a mission to recover a stolen artifact from an alien theropod named Shordar, all while navigating a romance complicated by their differing ranks and societal positions.

Though this novel is part of a series, it stands alone effectively, with only minimal references to previous events. While familiarity with earlier books may enhance understanding of the universe Coles has crafted, new readers will find Light in the Abyss approachable and engaging. The plot focuses primarily on the crew’s confrontation with Shordar and the complexities of interstellar politics, with tantalizing mentions of other alien species. One of the novel’s most refreshing elements is its distinctive setting: spacefaring ships reminiscent of traditional sailing vessels. This unique motif lends the story a sense of realism, grounding the science fiction elements in a familiar framework.

The titles and roles aboard the ships echo historical naval traditions, adding depth to the world-building. The portrayal of social politics within the human empire further enriches the narrative, highlighting the struggles of the characters against rigid social structures.

At the heart of the story is the pursuit of a stolen artifact known as the suncatcher, which serves primarily as a plot device to drive character development. Blackwood and Virtue’s personal and professional challenges, especially their struggle against the societal constraints of their empire, are poignantly depicted. Coles excels in portraying their emotional turmoil, making their journey as compelling as the external conflict with Shordar.

Light in the Abyss delivers a captivating blend of space adventure and character-driven drama. Bennett R. Coles skillfully balances action and emotion, creating a rich, immersive experience for readers, whether they are long-time fans of the series or newcomers.

Pages: 435 | ASIN : B0D1ZY4MP5