Andy Lane is one of the most underrated writers there is and this is no exception. An excellent pseudo-historical using the Sci-Fi to analyze Facist and Nazi beliefs while setting it in a fascinating time period. Everything about this is awesome. 7 is done well here and Klein is being set up to be an interesting companion. The idea of a companion whose beliefs are completely wrong and has to grow by seeing the universe is great and makes the Klein Trilogy look very exciting.
The way the other characters are written is interesting too. Sylvia represents an entitled superiority reflecting allegiance and influence from both Germany and England. She demonstrates exactly the attitude that led to the uprising in the first place, right down to refusing to acknowledge Joshua by his name until she feels must vulnerable, proving his point. Lucy is the more naive one, trying to maintain a sense of normality in siege conditions.
It’s a banger. Klein is one of the most unique companions ever. It’s a really interesting dynamic. The themes in this story are harrowing and I love a story that makes me think not just about history but the context of history and this does that really well.