One of the most exciting and imaginative sci-fi adventures I’ve read. Please, don’t read this on an empty stomach though…or at least have some snacks ready!
Saraswati Kaveri is a talented chef running away from something on Earth. Serenity Ko is trying to differentiate herself in the corporate world of tech simulations and immersive reality on the planet of Primus. A chance meeting kicks off a series of adventures involving an interstellar chef competition, found family, lots of drama, and a deep exploration into technology and food and what would it mean to integrate the two at the next level. And if it would even be ethical.
We get a serious look at ambition from both the perspective of those with ambition who see the allure of it but also those affected negatively by being close to a person with high ambition. This was one of my favorite pieces of commentary in the book. What is the cost of ambition? What is the cost of isolation as well? And if people stepped up and spoke to their friends about poor behavior, can people recognize it and change?
Additionally, the story dives into what it means to come to a new place as a refugee and exist as an other in a culture that isn’t yours, especially one that considers itself superior to all others in the galaxy and wants to enforce that superiority in all ways.
So, while the cover and synopsis may indicate to some that this book is all fun and no bite, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The author hits many concepts and themes that are quite serious and complex. The book is rich and has great depth to it and I found myself wanting even MORE.
Primus is a world that appears to be LGBTQIAP+ normative which is very welcomed!
The world-building is exquisite, pacing is even, and the layout of scenes and plot points is well-crafted. The author leaves little breadcrumbs and moments later draws up the curtains for the reveals and it’s delightful. The writing/editing is class. Character development is supreme and the mini romantic subplot feels genuine.
I was honestly salivating during several parts of this book, frequently debating whether or not to head straight over to the closest Indian restaurant I could find. It was delicious and I CANNOT WAIT to get started with the ARC of book #2 – Intergalactic Feast (March 2026).
BTW – there is an AUDIOBOOK version of this. Book #2 will have one as well.
About the Author
Lavanya Lakshminarayan is an award-winning author also known for The Ten Percent Thief (a dystopian sci-fi set in the future of Bangalore). She has also worked in game design building worlds for Zynga Inc.’s FarmVille franchise, Mafia Wars, and others.
About the Publisher
Solaris Books is an imprint of independent publisher Rebellion Publishing based in the UK.