Moonstorm (Lancers, #1) by Yoon Ha Lee
on June 4, 2024
ISBN: 0593488334
Genres: Science Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

In this thrilling first entry in the Lancers series, Hwa Young dreams of becoming a Lancer pilot after being rescued by one of the giant mech-suited soldiers as a child during the destruction of her home world. Now Hwa Young is a citizen of the very empire her family fought against. Hwa Young vows that she will become a Lancer pilot in order to never feel as powerless as she did the day her home was destroyed. After a devastating attack on her new home planet, Hwa Young is swept into the complex and violent world of interplanetary warfare even as she finally realizes her dream of becoming a Lancer pilot. As Hwa Young and her squadron of fellow pilots adjust to their new roles, they discover that all is not as it seems in the empire. They must make a devastating decision between betraying their values or betraying the empire. 

The world building and character development in this book are intriguing and give the author lots to play with in future entries in the series. The main character, Hwa Young, is complex and her sense of duty to the empire and longing for a true family shine, giving heart to what otherwise would be considered an action-forward novel. 

This book is a must read for young adults who enjoy sci-fi, especially the Star Wars universe. Readers who enjoyed the sci-fi elements of The Lunar Chronicles series by Marissa Meyer will also enjoy this unique space opera.

Reviewed by Rebecca Duquette, Pittston Randolph Consolidated School, Pittston