Like mentioned in another review, the first part of this book seems to actually be the last part of the previous book. I’m not sure why it got split up, but I distinctly remember a good ending section, then checked and saw dozens of chapters left. It was a great ending, but I think it should have been in the previous installment. The rest of the chapters did feel like a full story of themselves, though.
As in all good long-form stories, this part steadily ramped up the action and stakes while giving the characters victories and challenges. More exposition on the function of starlight cultivation and Artorian experimenting with it.
Good book and I’m getting the next one.