Alphabet, Shadow, Victory: The Circle is Complete.

Alexander Freed delivers an emotional and satisfying conclusion to the Alphabet Squadron trilogy whose story reiterates that war, even in victory, has its price. Following the events of Shadow Fall, Hera is left trying to unite those under her command in order to put an end to the Imperial remnants, all leading to the final battle of the Galactic Civil War: the Battle of Jakku. In a way, Victory’s Price is an extension of Shadow Fall in regard to being another character focused story which is something, I feel, the trilogy needed - especially when it comes to Kairos (yes, there is finally more Kairos!) I was disappointed that Kairos wasn’t expanded upon in Shadow Fall like her fellow squad members, and even though I think there could have been more Kairos in Victory’s Price, I am content with Kairos’ characterization in this novel.

Besides more Kairos, Hera also gains a more interactive role throughout the book! To my surprise, Hera’s active presence didn’t overshadow the other main characters, in my opinion. Generally, I am skeptical of including a well known character in a newer story because of how easy it is for a known character to overshadow the new characters an author is trying to build, or in this case, wrap up their story; however, Alexander Freed does a good job at balancing all the characters. Hera has a distinct purpose in this trilogy overall, especially in Victory's Price, so Hera's role harmoniously compliments the pilots' stories as well as enhance her personal journey until we see her next. Hera's inclusion in the Alphabet Squadron trilogy has near flawless execution (Victory’s Price is definitely the highlight,) and even though she’s not the main focal point of the trilogy, I loved learning what she’s been up to as a General in the Rebellion (still hoping for more Hera someday, but I digress.) There’s a lot of good stuff in Victory’s Price - references to events in the original trilogy, expansions on Operation Cinder/Imperial Operations, and glimpses of how the New Republic operates - that enhances this story as well as the material surrounding it. Despite a few lingering questions, I am pleased with the conclusion of the Alphabet Squadron trilogy, and I recommend checking out these books if you’re looking for something new to read.

Click the image to check out my Instagram post