Uptown Oracle Reads… Seven Mercies by Elizabeth May and L.R. Lam

Seven Mercies is an absolute gem that shines brightly in the sci-fi genre, offering a thrilling adventure filled with depth, diversity, and heart. This novel is the second installment in the Seven Devils duology, and it not only meets the high expectations set by its predecessor but surpasses them with a richly woven narrative that left me both exhilarated and emotionally moved.

Seven Mercies by Elizabeth May and L.R. Lam

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The second book in a feminist space opera duology that follows the team of seven rebels who will free the galaxy from the ruthless Tholosian Empire–or die trying.

After an ambush leaves the Novantae resistance in tatters, the survivors scatter across the galaxy. Wanted by two great empires, the bounty on any rebel’s head is enough to make a captor filthy rich. And the seven devils? Biggest score of them all. To avoid attacks, the crew of Zelus scavenge for supplies on long-abandoned Tholosian outposts.

Not long after the remnants of the rebellion settle briefly on Fortuna, Ariadne gets a message with unimaginable consequences: the Oracle has gone rogue. In a planned coup against the Empire’s new ruler, the AI has developed a way of mass programming citizens into mindless drones. The Oracle’s demand is simple: the AI wants One’s daughter back at any cost.

Time for an Impossible to Infiltrate mission: high chance of death, low chance of success. The devils will have to use their unique skills, no matter the sacrifice, and pair up with old enemies. Their plan? Get to the heart of the Empire. Destroy the Oracle. Burn it all to the ground.

What makes Seven Mercies truly remarkable is its cast of characters, who are as diverse as they are deeply relatable. The representation in this book is extraordinary, with characters embodying a wide range of identities. From LGBTQ characters, including bisexual, pansexual, lesbian, and asexual individuals, to a trans woman (Kyla) and characters dealing with anxiety, trauma, and physical disabilities like amputation, this book offers a spectrum of representation that feels authentic and meaningful. These aren’t just token characters – they evolve significantly throughout the story, with some of the most profound growth seen in characters like Cato and Kyla. Their journeys are full of relatable struggles and triumphs, and I found myself deeply connected to them.

The relationships among the found family of rebels are another highlight. The bonds between these characters are genuine and moving, showcasing a level of emotional depth that is often hard to find in action-packed sci-fi. Nyx and Cato, in particular, show incredible development, moving beyond their initial roles to confront deeper emotional and existential challenges. The story’s shifting perspectives give each character room to breathe and grow, making the narrative feel rich and layered.

The plot of Seven Mercies is a rollercoaster of high-stakes action and deep emotional moments. Continuing the saga of rebellion against a tyrannical empire, the Novantae resistance is now scattered and hunted across the galaxy. The tension builds as the rebels face escalating dangers, culminating in a climactic showdown that is as intense as it is satisfying. The action sequences are pulse-pounding, yet the book never sacrifices character development for the sake of thrills. Instead, it balances these elements beautifully, creating a narrative that is both fast-paced and emotionally resonant.

What I loved most was how the world-building expanded in this book. We get to explore new locales and civilizations, from the Evoli home world to the very heart of the empire. Each new setting is richly detailed and adds to the story’s depth, making the universe feel vast and lived-in. The themes of agency, identity, and redemption are woven throughout the characters’ quests, adding layers of complexity to their struggle against the empire. The lines between ally and enemy are often blurred, resulting in unexpected alliances and ethical dilemmas that kept me fully engaged.

The writing in Seven Mercies is a masterclass in collaboration. Laura Lam and Elizabeth May bring their combined talents to the table, creating a narrative that is cohesive and seamless, despite its multiple perspectives. The prose is descriptive without being overwrought, and the emotional depth they bring to the characters is simply outstanding. They manage to convey the grandeur of the galactic conflict while still keeping the story deeply personal and character-driven.

One of the standout aspects of the writing is how accessible and engaging it is. Even as the narrative delves into complex themes, the writing remains clear and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read. There’s also a good dose of humor and wit sprinkled throughout, providing much-needed levity amidst the intense drama. The use of multiple perspectives and temporal shifts adds depth to the story, allowing readers to fully understand the motivations and past traumas of the characters while keeping the plot moving at a brisk pace.

The themes in Seven Mercies are as powerful as they are poignant. The concept of found family is central to the story, highlighting the bonds formed through shared adversity and mutual support. The rebels’ unity and loyalty are portrayed as their greatest strengths, underscoring the idea that chosen relationships can be more meaningful than biological ties.

Identity and agency are also crucial themes, as characters challenge the societal norms and expectations imposed by the empire. Their journeys towards self-discovery and empowerment are beautifully portrayed, making their victories feel earned and their struggles deeply resonant. The narrative also explores the theme of resistance against tyranny, with characters seeking redemption not only for themselves but for their entire society. The moral ambiguity and ethical choices they face add a layer of complexity to the story, illustrating the difficult realities of rebellion.

Seven Mercies is a shining example of sci-fi excellence, blending classic space opera tropes with modern themes of diversity and inclusivity. It appeals not only to fans of action-packed adventures but also to those who appreciate character-driven narratives set in expansive, futuristic settings. The balance between high-stakes drama and intimate character moments makes this book a standout in the genre.

I give Seven Mercies a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a riveting conclusion to the Seven Devils duology, delivering on every front—action, character development, thematic depth, and emotional resonance. If you’re looking for a sci-fi epic that offers not just thrills but also a thoughtful exploration of identity, agency, and the power of found family, then Seven Mercies is an absolute must-read. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a compelling, inclusive, and beautifully written adventure in the stars.

Positives of Seven Mercies

• Diverse Representation: Strong representation of LGBTQ+ characters (bi, pan, lesbians, asexual, trans mtf) and characters with disabilities (amputee), contributing to inclusivity and authenticity.
• Character Development: Significant growth and depth in characters like Cato and Kyla, with nuanced portrayals of their struggles and journeys.
• Found Family Dynamics: Compelling relationships and dynamics within the rebel group, emphasizing loyalty and camaraderie amidst adversity.
• High-Stakes Plot: Action-packed narrative with escalating tension and well-paced plot development, culminating in a gripping finale.
• World-Building: Expanded universe with diverse settings and cultures, enriching the story’s backdrop and thematic exploration

Negatives of Seven Mercies

• Pacing Issues: Some readers may find parts of the plot slow-paced, particularly in moments of exposition or character introspection.
• Emotional Intensity: The emotional depth and heavy themes explored may be intense for some readers, requiring emotional investment.  
• Conclusion: While the finale resolves major plot points, some readers may find aspects of the conclusion predictable or insufficiently satisfying in closure for all characters.

I received Seven Mercies by Elizabeth May and L.R. Lam from the publisher. This is an unbiased and honest review

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