Anoushka, a brutal commander seeking revenge, is tasked by a godlike AI to confront a rogue AI aboard the prized warship Vishnu's Leviathan. As she faces treachery and past enemies, themes of vengeance, queerness, and complex relationships unfold in a dense, sapphic-dominated sci-fi novella.

Reader Review Summary

"Now Will Machines Hollow the Beast" by Benjanun Sriduangkaew is a captivating and immersive science fiction novella set in the same richly imagined universe as the author's previous work, "And Shall Machines Surrender." This standalone sequel follows the fierce and complex character of Admiral Anoushka, also known as the Alabaster Admiral, as she navigates a treacherous mission aboard the legendary warship, Vishnu's Leviathan.

Sriduangkaew's lush and evocative prose brings the world to life, painting vivid pictures of the awe-inspiring biomechanical leviathan and the diverse cast of characters that inhabit it. The author's unique blend of Southeast Asian influences, queer themes, and cyberpunk elements creates a truly original and engaging setting that will captivate readers from start to finish.

At the heart of the story is Admiral Anoushka, a multifaceted and compelling protagonist whose past and motivations are gradually revealed throughout the novella. Sriduangkaew expertly peels back the layers of Anoushka's hard exterior, exposing her vulnerabilities, fears, and desires in a way that makes her feel both relatable and larger-than-life. The dynamic between Anoushka and her two devoted wives, Numadesi and Xuejiao, adds depth and complexity to the narrative, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and the secrets we keep from those closest to us.

The plot is tightly woven and full of surprises, with a satisfying blend of intrigue, action, and emotional resonance. The revelation of Xuejiao's true identity as Anoushka's old enemy, Erisant, is a particularly impactful twist that adds a new dimension to their relationship and raises the stakes for the final confrontation. The author handles the themes of vengeance, loss, and the inescapable pull of one's past with deft skill, creating a poignant and thought-provoking climax.

One of the novella's greatest strengths is its exploration of queer themes and relationships. The predominantly lesbian and non-binary cast of characters is refreshing and groundbreaking, and the author's handling of Erisant's desire for vengeance on behalf of eir husband is a rare and welcome representation of a non-binary character's devotion to their spouse. The sex scenes, while explicit and occasionally kinky, are well-written and serve to deepen the reader's understanding of the characters and their relationships.

While some readers may find the flowery prose and dense worldbuilding challenging at times, the novella's relatively short length ensures that the pace never drags. The story is a satisfying and self-contained episode in the larger Machine Mandate series, leaving readers eager to explore more of this fascinating universe.

In conclusion, "Now Will Machines Hollow the Beast" is a triumphant addition to Benjanun Sriduangkaew's growing body of work. With its lush prose, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novella is sure to delight fans of the series and newcomers alike. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates inventive, emotionally resonant science fiction with a distinctly queer sensibility.