A review by the_rabble
Ancillary Sword by Ann Leckie

3.0

The first one was interesting bc it was heavily relationship-focused while moving the plot. This one is still good, but instead of a focus on identity and friendship/loyalty it feels a little less moored.

Which is still an interesting slice of life as a disillusioned Ancillary is handed substantial power and exists inside an injustice colonial system with predictable internal socio-economic conflicts. Worldbuilding seems to be the primary driver of continuing the series.

Sex happens in this one
(not any of the ships you'd expect)
and its intersection with power and need is an ongoing theme that felt muddier. There are moments of discomfort without resolution.

It took all of Justice to get me charmed by Seivarden (which I am and remain invested.) In Sword, Breq collects a significant number of new people, teens, and AIs Leckie is more interested in connecting surrounding her with. Felt a bit clunkier.

I liked being back in the world, but was less satisfied with this arc. I'm finishing the series out, but wouldn't blame people who stopped after Justice.