Review of Seven Mercies (Seven Devils #2) by Laura Lam and Elizabeth May
Ever pick up a book that resonates so deeply with your own experiences that it feels like the characters are holding up a mirror to your soul? That’s how I felt when I read Seven Mercies, the long-awaited sequel to Seven Devils, and my heart has yet to stop racing. Laura Lam and Elizabeth May have crafted something spectacular, a sequel that not only lives up to the brilliance of its predecessor but also deepens the emotional stakes and character arcs in a way that left me breathless.
Honestly, I started reading with tears in my eyes and an unshakeable sense of anticipation. Seven Devils is my all-time favorite—everything about it resonates with me. As a trans person navigating my own journey, I saw parts of myself reflected in characters like Kyla, whose struggles I could relate to on a deeply personal level. Returning to this universe felt less like reading and more like going home—a chaotic, beautifully messy home filled with characters I adore.
In this installment, we’re thrust into the complex lives of a found family rebelling against an oppressive Empire in a vivid, queer space opera. The pacing is relentless, breathing life into each character’s growth as they grapple with their identities and their past traumas. I was especially struck by Cato’s backstory, which adds layers to his character that I never knew I needed. And then there’s Nyx, whose journey from warrior to realizing her worth beyond violence was beautifully poignant.
Let’s not forget the humorous takes on their nemesis, Damocles, which provided a much-needed levity in the midst of the emotional upheaval. The comical disdain the group shares for him gave me the kind of joy that made me snort with laughter—a rare feat in such an intense narrative!
But let’s delve deeper into Kyla and Cato. Reading through their perspectives was nothing short of cathartic for me. As someone who faces similar anxieties and challenges, I felt an unbreakable bond with them. Their struggles and victories felt like my own, making this reading experience incredibly intimate. “Every death has a weight, and some are heavier than others.” This line shadowed my thoughts throughout; it encapsulated not just the weight of literal loss but emotional burdens we carry, which resonated on a personal level beyond the pages.
What really stood out to me was the writing style—seamless yet striking. Laura Lam and Elizabeth May’s voices blended together effortlessly, creating a narrative that felt rich and immersive. Every twist and turn, every heartbeat echoed the intricacies of the characters’ lives, pulling me further into their stories.
For anyone looking for a gripping, heart-wrenching, and outrageously fun read that celebrates queer identities within a masterfully crafted universe, Seven Mercies will continue to enchant you. It’s a tale of triumph, identity, and the power of found family. This duology easily cements itself as a forever favorite for me—its impact is boundless, resonating through the challenges and beauties of being who we truly are.
So, thank you to NetGalley and Orion Books for providing me with a copy of this stunning book in exchange for an honest review. If you’re ready to journey through space with a band of fearless rebels, and encounter emotions that will leave you equally crying and laughing, look no further. Seven Mercies is where it’s at, and trust me, you’ll want to dive into this world.
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