Starsight

I’ve seen a trend more often recently, and that’s the trend of blending science fiction and fantasy tropes in new and unique ways. I first saw the trend in the independent publishing space, but since then I’ve seen several examples from traditionally published authors. Starsight, I think, falls into that category.

Most of the story would be considered science fiction, but I can’t help but think that the ability to transport between two places is a magical one. There’s definitely room for disagreement here – it practice is given a science-fictiony explanation, but to me it feels magical.

In this second book in the series, Sanderson’s strengths are on full display. Vast and intricate worldbuilding, a plot that pulls you through the pages, and enough mysteries to make a reader hunger for more.

I enjoyed this story, but I don’t think I liked it as much as the first. In the first, I really enjoyed Spensa’s development as part of a team. That development is mirrored and expanded in this outing, but I found that it didn’t engage me quite as strongly. And although Spensa’s reactions to her new environment were completely understandable, I found them so laughably wrong as to be a bit annoying.

I’d still definitely recommend for fans of more young-adult focused science fiction. Sanderson builds compelling worlds and characters, and this book certainly sets the stage for more adventure.