This was one of my most anticipated 2021 releases, and it took me way longer to read than I thought. I prepped by rereading "Skyhunter" again, by audio this time, which stressed me out. And I definitely was not in the right mental space to read the finale of this duology, since it stressed me out even more.

"Steelstriker" picks up a few months after the events of "Skyhunter": Mara has fallen, the Federation is assuming rule over the land, Red and the Strikers are planning a rebellion, and Talin is officially a Skyhunter linked to the Premier by threat of her mother's life. I read the first 100 pages so slowly because every page Talin denied her link to Red was a sharp stick poking me in the gut. It took me almost a week to get to a point where I could sit down and commit to reading it.

But thankfully, Marie Lu provided some minor resolution and at about 50% in, it was a speed read to the end. As always, her ability to make me care for her characters and write a compelling, dynamic plot had me racing to the finish. Good thing I also purchased this book because I'm sure I only read about half the words on the page hurrying to see what happened.

I found half the plot predictable, with a few events that genuinely surprised me. But my biggest issue with the plot was the (unsurprisingly) pacing. This series felt like a trilogy to me by the end of book 3. I say that knowing that book two would have been the ABSOLUTE WORST because it would be so depressing and hopeless until the end, but the end of this series didn't feel realistic for how quick it moved. Lu left the conclusion semi-open-ended, as in, you'll get a big resolution, but she may return to this world one day, with these characters or otherwise. I honestly would read just a novella of the characters from this book just hanging out together. And honestly, after this stress-fest, I just might need it.

Marie Lu is incredible at world and character building, and her first book in this duology (Skyhunter) was a solid 5-star read for me. I have found many of her 2nd books to be average- maybe because I loved the first one so much? This definitely wasn't average for me. I loved how Talin learns, develops, and fights in this second book. (I'm being intentionally vague for readers that haven't read the 1st one.) I highly recommend this duology to YA+.

Sometimes, I with there were book Oscars. I know there are book awards, but I'm talking about things like best sexual tension,  best morally gray "villain".

If these become real, Marie Lu would be the Meryl Streep of epilogues. I have literally never had an author who consistently nails it every book.  I included her legend series because even almost a decade later I still say, "Okay, but can we talk about the damn epilogue?!"

Did I stalk netgally for the sequel to Skyhunter? Yes.
Did I love Steelstriker?  Yes.

If you are looking for a great YA, post apocalypse, dystopian book, I highly recommend it.  Talin is a badass. I really enjoyed her story arc immensely. As with most YA, there is a love story for her, and while you root for her romance, it isn't the only love you are rooting for.

I think Marie beautifully crafted not only the drive for acceptance in a found family, but also how strong of a motive fear FOR loved ones also drives us too.

I rarely read author notes fully. I honestly skim for my name even though I don't know any authors 😅😅. Just me?? This is one I recommend reading, as I found it have plot insight to the fear and anger driving characters, and the time Marie was crafting this work of art.

STEELSTRIKER takes place right after SKYHUNTER. This duology has an amazing and emotionally-driven plot packed with description, suspenseful twists, romance, and fast-paced action. It is told with a dual narrative between Talin and Red as the characters explore more of the dark secrets hidden within the Federation. The stakes are incredibly high when the Premier does whatever they can for power, even if it means destroying the lives of others. Marie Lu is a storyteller like no other and fans of this duology will enjoy this epic conclusion.

Marie Lu is a master storyteller and builder of worlds. Her characters are so real and multi-layered that it is impossible not to connect with them. She manages to transport you to settings that don't exist in times that haven't yet happened and not once do you question her authenticity. If you are a fan of other Marie Lu book.s and series you will not be disappointed.

I absolutely love books where I can't predict in advance what will happen. Such a fascinating world, and wonderful characters.

"May there be future dawns."

Thank you, NetGalley and The Happy Writer Podcast for providing me a copy of Steelstriker.

I've been a fan of Marie Lu's books since I was 14. Her books never fail me and I often find myself being blown away by the story. This book was no exception.

Lu crafts a beautiful plot centered on communication, love, and family. The characters are positive despite their hard circumstances, the worldbuilding is real and tangible, and the plot is compelling.

Skyhunter was a little slow for me, but this book absolutely makes up for it. I cannot recommend this duology enough, and while I mourn leaving this universe, I look forward to Marie's next world.

I’m simultaneously so happy to finally have the conclusion to this wonderful Duology and also so incredibly sad that’s it’s over. 😢

Steelstriker is the finale in the skyhunter Duology and it definitely did not disappoint. I had no clue what to expect but I loved this story so much. There was more build up in this book than the first. The beginning was not slow by any means but it laid very strategic groundwork for where the plot would go, and around 60% everything dropped and I couldn’t put it down for anything. The action was nonstop, the stakes were higher than ever, and Red and Talin are the amazing couple I knew they would be. They are so sweet, I just love them.

Marie Lu writes such amazing characters. The main characters are relatable, she gives us lovable side characters, and a villain that we both hate and pity at the same time. If you’ve read Skyhunter you know just how amazing Talin’s mom is, and she is amazing in this book too. I love having supporting parents who are there for and protect them. I love how Talin and Red are connected and they really understand each other. The dreams 🥺

The story wasn’t rushed. Everything was wrapped up nicely. Questions were answered and explained. Would I read more in this world/series? Absolutely. But I am perfectly content with these two. The ending was amazing and the epilogue was perfect. I absolutely loved how both ended and then I immediately reread the last page because I already missed the whole crew. ❤️


This is my favorite Duology and if you haven’t preordered it, you definitely should. Comes out September 28th!


Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the early release e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review!

With every series that she writes, Marie Lu always delivers a satisfying ending for her readers and in 'Steelstriker' she gave us that and more.

'Steelstriker' picks up right where 'Skyhunter' left off. This time around we get a dual narrative of our two main characters: Talin and Red. The two of them find themselves where their story first began as enemies. They’re once again fighting on opposite sides of the war.

The way their paths are reversed, yet tell a similar story, is intriguing. Talin is now the one being forced to fight and protect her worst enemy, the Premier, who is the leader of the Federation. She has become the newest Skyhunter and his greatest weapon. Red finds himself with the Strikers who are left after the fall of Mara. He’s injured but alive, and he’s trying his best to keep them all together. The link that connects them grows weaker as Talin becomes stronger at the Premier’s side, and their hope to reconnect dwindles. Will they ever be fighting on the same side again?

Marie Lu’s writing is at her best in 'Steelstriker'. There is a lot of action throughout the entire book and the plot twists are sure to keep readers on their toes. Underneath everything that is happening to these characters on the surface, I found that Lu dives deeper to explore their dark and twisted emotions in this story.

The war has become much more than it was in 'Skyhunter'. All of the characters are hiding their own secrets and reasons why they are still fighting.

Red and the rest of the Strikers see Talin as unrecognizable. She’s finished her transformation into a Skyhunter and her metal wings and deathly stare scare them. What they don’t see is all of her anguish. The Premier has her mother as a hostage and uses her to control Talin. Every move Talin makes is analyzed by the Premier and if she makes one mistake her mother will suffer the consequences.

Despite feeling like he’s lost Talin forever, Red holds on to the love he has for her. The way Red cares for Talin is so romantic. If you’re a reader who was hoping to see more romance in this series then I promise that you won’t be disappointed with this book. They may be on separate sides right now but their journey to finding each other is beautiful.

It’s very rare when I cry while reading and it’s been a while since I’ve read such an emotional book. I wasn’t expecting 'Steelstriker' to be so dark. The similarities between this world and ours are chilling. Lu’s writing will definitely have you questioning your own feelings.

Talin, Red, and the rest of the characters go through a lot of pain in this book. They continue to ask themselves if love is enough to keep fighting for a rebellion that they might lose.

The exploration of each character is fascinating; even with the villain. At one point Lu shows a glimpse into what made the Premier become so evil and even shows him mercy. Every character arc wraps up nicely and I really enjoyed reading about them.

If you’re a fan of Marie Lu’s other series then you are sure to love 'Steelstriker'! There’s action, friendship, and love all wrapped in a fun adventure. She continues to explore what makes us human and this story is a reflection of our own world. I think many readers will be able to relate to these characters and their stunning stories.

Steelstriker was once of the most anticipated sequels for the YA genre this year, and it did not disappoint. This is a story is full of thrills, suspense, and exhilarating action throughout the entire reading experience. This is one of Lu’s stronger and concluding sequels, one of which was able to broaden the world of science fiction with diverse storytelling concepts and characters. Its predecessor, Skyhunter, was only a small foundation to the worldbuilding and intensity that is to come.

The worldbuilding within this duology was a visual experience. It is quite desolate and depressing, but also imaginative and technologically innovative. It also brings a bit of fantasy elements with the Ghosts still being a bone chilling aspect for the character to encounter. Some other visual elements include significant locations within the Karensa Federation, the Skyhunter creature mechanics and logistics, and a visual representation of what a dictatorship looks and feels like.

Some key differences in this novel versus the previous one is the way this story is told and the romance that played out. Whereas Talin was the sole point of view in Skyhunter, Steelstriker was narrated by both Talin and Red. With Red’s perspective, a deeper understanding of his familial background and character are shown, and this aids in the complexity of the overall plot of the story. However, Talin seemed like she was the plot’s driving character. Where Red provided a more domestic, Karensan point of view, Talin provides an entirely different perspective with being a refugee who must navigate new surroundings, the inability to talk and using sign language to communicate, and the heroine who faces institutions of Power with seemingly impossible choices.

The romance between Talin and Red tried to be more prominent in this novel, but it was almost like the relationship was forced. This didn’t feel like a slow burn romance and it honestly felt rushed whereas in Skyhunter where there were more one-on-one scenes with the two of them together. The bond Talin and Red shared seemed to force the romance and began to interpret it more as a best-friend, companion-like bond instead. This wasn’t a huge bother throughout the reading, but the dynamic wasn’t quite strong enough yet to be a full-on intimate relationship.

Family, friends, and politics play significant roles within Steelstriker and I think these were the greatest aspects offered within this sequel.

As for family, Talin ironically sacrificed herself to become the creature everyone feared the most for the sake of saving her mother from being killed. This shows the dedication and devotion her character has, and with the fellow Strikers she is also close to.

Talin, Adena, Jeran, and Aramin’s (my favourite character) friendship has grown to be one of family because of their growing up together as Strikers. Their willingness to fight for each other time and time again demonstrates their love for one another, and this ended up being one of my favourite aspects from the books.

Lastly, politics was a very scary institution to deal with especially given the dictator-like aspects it demonstrated throughout the entirety of the novel. It was a silent stressor throughout the reading, and it is something you could not help but think of every time a character was in trouble or a catastrophic event was waiting to unfold. Absolute control, the need for more Power, and god-like powers being bestowed upon a sole individual are just some of the traits you will see. The Premier of Karensa was a cruel, ruthless, and inhumane man, and Lu did an amazing job of showcasing how he came to be as a character.

Overall, Steelstriker was an excellent conclusion to this duology that will keep you reading until the very end. Although the romance came up a bit short and felt more like a friendship, it is a story of sacrifice, family, and fighting for what’s right. Marie Lu is a compelling storyteller who can add complexity to her characters, a sinister beauty to the worlds she builds, and bring the brutal realities of government to life. Steelstriker is nearly everything a reader could want and more, and if you have read Skyhunter, Steelstriker is the one to conclude it all!

4+ Stars!

I probably would have enjoyed this one more if I would have re-read the first book, but I still very much enjoyed the finale to this duology. Marie Lu is one of my favorite YA authors, and this new duology tops that list. After I read Skyhunter, I was obsessed with the story! I LOVED it, so of course I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book! I would say I liked this book a lot, but it took me about half the book to really get into it.

Steelstriker is the second book in the Skyhunter world, and this book picks up after the events in the first book. Mara has fallen to the Federation, and Talin has been turned into a Skyhunter and must do Premier’s bidding to keep her mother alive. Red, Jeran, and Adena are in hiding and building up a resistance against the Federation, and Red is hoping to find Talin and rescue her from the Premiere. Even with the bond between Red and Talin weaking, Red sets off to find Talin and her mother.

I loved that we got Red’s point of view in this book. When I saw his point of view before chapter 1, my eyebrows went so high in shock, I couldn’t wait to read more! Not only does it make sense to have two points of view since Red and Talin were separated for most of the book, but his character also became one of my favorites because of the new point of view. Sometimes in YA books with alternating points of view, I have a hard time telling the difference between the character voices, but Marie Lu did a fantastic job like always distinguishing her characters. Plus the way she writes the secondary characters is spot on!

Because these books are so short, it dives right into the action and intrigue. I also noticed that the world building and descriptions is done through the first-person narrative as we go along with the characters. It’s never overly complicated or descriptive, but while Talin is walking through the market, she’ll describe the color of the banners and the people she is passing that will help set the world for the readers. It’s a very easy way for readers to get into a new fantasy/dystopian world.

This book has romance, gore, violence, plot twists, action, and intrigue and has made the list of new dystopian books for my students to read for the dystopian unit! What a fantastic ending to this duology!

*Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillian Children’s for providing me with an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have my copies preordered!

Marie Lu is one of my favorite authors, and I was very excited to receive an eARC for Steelstriker! I really enjoyed this book, and even though I was a little confused at first (since I had read the first book about a year ago and sort of forgot the plot), I was able to get back into it after a few chapters.

The reason I gave it four stars instead of five was that there were a few parts in some of Red's chapters where the perspective went from "I" to "you" and it felt a little awkward. I think it was supposed to be Red's "other voice" or something like that, but it didn't seem to fit in all that well with the rest of the writing. However, it was still a fun read and I look forward to more of Marie Lu's work in the future.

Okay. Okay, okay, okay. Oh man. If I thought that Skyhunter was good, this book was basically that one on steroids. You thought the warfront was intense in book one? It's moreso here (think possible actual bombs being dug up kinds of intense). You thought one kid undergoing experimentation to become a human war machine was a lot to unpack? Oops now there are like, 4 or 5 of them.

The characters are no longer waging battle on just a single front. Now there are plans to double-cross people, plotting going on behind backs, assassination attempts, secret conversations held in dreams... it's like everything that made the first book so unique was turned up to eleven here. Especially the idea of the mental bonds between characters.

Not only do we see Talin and Red's bond deepen intensely (like I said, they can visit each other in their dreams, which I'm not sure I can impress upon you how sweet and longing and romantic those moments were), to the point where it's almost to their detriment at times. Because now not only does Talin have a bond with Red, but with Premier Constantine (albeit an incomplete one). Meaning he can sense extreme changes in her emotions, even if he can't yet read her mind like an open book.

Parts of this book read like a spy thriller, honestly. Talin is carrying two sides of this ongoing war in her head and trying to keep them from each other, all while also trying to keep her mother alive while the Premier holds her life over her. Every time something good happens, it seems like something else comes along to knock Talin down again. There are so many parts of this book where your heart will just ache for her, because she's in impossible situation after impossible situation.

I sped through this book so fast - much of it I read today in one sitting in a hospital parking garage - because it was just impossible to put down. This book constantly keeps you on your toes, and it feels like it's rushing toward something huge, some big break through or massive battle, constantly. It is intense, and beautiful, and scary, and wonderful, and I'm so glad I finally picked this duology up. I loved both books, and I'm so sad to see these characters go (at least until my preorder of this book comes in and I get that sweet, sweet, Jeran/Aramin short story!).

Steelstriker is not only about the big evils, the murders and colonization, but also about the small ones. The little injustices, the horror at seeing your loved ones twisted in front of you. Not just the destruction of your idea of home. And from then on, I was hooked. One thing I loved in Steelstriker is that way Lu has almost mirrored Talin and Red's journey. The ways their journey's, struggles, and sacrifices almost mirror each other, bringing them back to where they were.

Both having grappled with wondering if the life of a loved one is worth the rebellion. Questioning whether one life is worth them all if we have the power to make a stand. It takes courage to have the strength to fight even when the odds and situations are against us. Another element I enjoyed was the relics from the Early Ones (which for some reason I don't remember in the first). It relocated Steelstriker to a futuristic almost post-apocalyptic feel.

Marie Lu knows exactly how to wrap up a series in the most satisfying way. Steelstriker was gripping from starr to finish, especially with the inclusion of Red's point of view (which I adored, by the way). The stakes were higher, there were more plot twists and betrayals than in the first book, and I loved every moment of it! There's also more romance in this book than in Skyhunter, which I appreciated - I love Talin and Red together. The mother and daughter moments were so moving, Marie was right when she said that at heart this is a mother daughter story. I do still prefer the first book, however, but I think that Steelstiker was a great conclusion to the duology!

What a great conclusion to this duology! We find Red and Talin working together in a very different way. We find our supporting characters fighting everyday. The best part of this, was it felt like a movie. I waited a whole year for this book and it did not disappoint. You have the big battle followed by the the small battles that lead up to it, you feel Red's desperation to save Talin and you feel Talins agony of being the puppet of the Premier. It does have a Hunger Games vibe to it, but I've always been a fan of Hunger Games. Great conclusion to the world of Mara and it's citizens.

“It is easy to bend the truth when you are the truth.”

OVERALL:
I used to think that Legend was my favorite Marie Lu series, but Skyhunter, and thereby, Steelstriker, may have topped it. This series feels like it was made for an older audience, and has less levity that Legend. Not that it was all horrible deeds and sadness, but instead, genuine fear and crushing choices.

15 SECOND “WHAT’S THIS ABOUT”:
Talin, a Striker at heart, has been turned into a Skyhunter by the Premiere, in order to save her mother. Red, Jeran, and Adena are in hiding, and attempting to sabotage as many Federation plans as they can. Talin and Red still share bond, though Talin fears accessing it as her bond with Constantine grows. But she must in order to work with Red and company to bring down the Premiere and the Federation.

FAVORITE PART:
In my opinion, Jeran and Red’s friendship and banter was the only true lightness in the book, and it was completely adorable.

ARC provided by Netgalley

4.5 stars

Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s for an advanced copy of this to review! I loved Skyhunter and was excited to get to the second book in this duology. AndI am happy to say that it definitely didn’t disappoint!

This book picks up pretty much where Skyhunter leaves off. At the beginning, it seems like all hope is lost. But in true Marie Lu fashion, we know that our two main characters are going to be good at beating the odds. Lu writes characters that have a tenacity to fight against oppressive governments, and Talin and Red are no different.

Not only are the characters great, but the world building also transports you to a new world. What I really enjoyed about this book was the fact that this is set in a dystopian kind of future, but there are issues that are parallel with what’s currently happening in our world. At one point, Red makes an observation about the fact that history is written by the conquerors, but it’s made to be less violent. It never happens how it’s written. And that point just struck home with me because it’s true about our world as well.

If you’re a fan of action in books, you’ll definitely get it in this book, too. Lu is great at writing action scenes, and there are some really great ones in here. This is the end of the duology, and I don’t think Lu fans will be disappointed with how it ends.

All in all, if you’re looking for your next dystopian series to pick up, definitely check into this one!

Great finish to this duology. Action throughout keeps the story moving quickly. Good finally conquers over evil and friendship and family is what makes the characters stronger.

This is an amazing conclusion to the Skyhunter duology. Talin, Red, and friends are wonderful and complex characters, and author Marie Lu's world-building is second to none. Highly recommended.