What do you think?
Rate this book
Terms of Service
When her cousin gets kidnapped by a dastardly trickster, Luzia is forced to sell herself in servitude to the Eoi in exchange for his life. But the terms of the deal turn out to be much more complicated than she ever imagined…
Luzia N.E. Drainway never really thought too much about the Astrosi. They lurk above and below Bastion City – a giant multileveled megalopolis she calls her home – and they tend to keep to themselves. On the rare occasions they use their magics to meddle with human affairs, most people with an ounce of sense steer clear of whichever unfortunate soul happens to be their victim. Luzia is far too dedicated to repairing and maintaining the frequently-damaged Bastion to pay them much attention, and prefers to ignore the Astrosi just like everyone else.
That disregard gets blown out of the water when a rogue Astrosi and nefarious trickster named Carrion kidnaps her nephew and sells him to the Eoi, one of the Astrosi courts.
With no other options to save her nephew, Luzia trades her life for his and finds herself in service to the Eoi. Unfortunately for her, Astrosi logic is acrobatic in ways even the most devious human mind can barely comprehend. It’s not until the deal is struck that she realizes she’s trapped in the most abstruse verbal contract imaginable. She is essentially conscripted into their ranks, and her devotion to her city becomes stretched to breaking point by her new masters’ orders.
As she struggles under this weight, she begins to uncover the secrets of the Astrosi people – the internal battles for power between the two kingdoms, the never-ending conflict between them, the trickster Carrion who somehow bridges that gap, and the very nature of the Bastion itself.
Luzia N.E. Drainway never really thought too much about the Astrosi. They lurk above and below Bastion City – a giant multileveled megalopolis she calls her home – and they tend to keep to themselves. On the rare occasions they use their magics to meddle with human affairs, most people with an ounce of sense steer clear of whichever unfortunate soul happens to be their victim. Luzia is far too dedicated to repairing and maintaining the frequently-damaged Bastion to pay them much attention, and prefers to ignore the Astrosi just like everyone else.
That disregard gets blown out of the water when a rogue Astrosi and nefarious trickster named Carrion kidnaps her nephew and sells him to the Eoi, one of the Astrosi courts.
With no other options to save her nephew, Luzia trades her life for his and finds herself in service to the Eoi. Unfortunately for her, Astrosi logic is acrobatic in ways even the most devious human mind can barely comprehend. It’s not until the deal is struck that she realizes she’s trapped in the most abstruse verbal contract imaginable. She is essentially conscripted into their ranks, and her devotion to her city becomes stretched to breaking point by her new masters’ orders.
As she struggles under this weight, she begins to uncover the secrets of the Astrosi people – the internal battles for power between the two kingdoms, the never-ending conflict between them, the trickster Carrion who somehow bridges that gap, and the very nature of the Bastion itself.
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2025
7 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Ciel Pierlot
4 books111 followersCiel Pierlot is a disaster bisexual from the San Francisco Bay Area. She’s also a giant nerd and no, you cannot stop her from bragging about her lightsaber collection. When she’s not writing SFF novels, she’s busy being a digital artist and a hardcore gay-mer. Bluebird is her debut novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 22, 2025
──⟡⋆˙✩ 4 stars ✩ ⋆˙⟡──
*ੈ✩‧₊˚ "𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩?" *ೃ༄
Well, I’m destroyed all right.
What an experience this was. I didn’t even know it was science fiction! I haven’t read many of those, but I really liked this one—it was refreshing, fun, and unexpectedly heartbreaking. I might have shed a tear or two while reading it.
ೃ⁀➷ Um… at the risk of sounding dumb, this book was very scientific. So much biology, chemistry, and physics! Plus a ton of technology. It was fun, but also—my eyes definitely glazed over a few times trying to keep up. I’m pretty sure a good chunk of the science just whooshed right over my head.
ೃ⁀➷ So basically, Luzia is a human whose nephew gets kidnapped by the sinister Carrion (a.k.a. her love interest) who sells the kid to the Eoi, so Luzia goes after them and makes a trade—her nephew for herself. She signs a contract and becomes one of the Eoi, which means she can never go back to her human family.
ೃ⁀➷ What fascinated me most was the world. Like I said, it’s science fiction, but it also has a dystopian edge. The human world Luzia comes from is entirely artificial—everything is technology and human-made. She’s never seen trees or animals before. Actually, there are no animals in this book! Even the food seems to be manufactured somehow. They have systems that regulate and filter their air, and everyone lives in these structured “slots.” It’s wild.
ೃ⁀➷ The romance only takes up about 10% of the story, but it’s definitely enemies to lovers. Carrion is an absolute bastard for selling her nephew, so naturally, Luzia joins the team hunting the bastard down. Every one of their interactions was electric and so much fun to read.
ೃ⁀➷ I also loved Luzia’s personality—she’s a total math nerd, solving complex trigonometric equations since she was a kid.
ೃ⁀➷ With how things were going, I was not expecting the emotional gut punch this book delivered. It makes some bold choices—choices I rarely see other books dare to make—and for that, it has my eternal gratitude.
All that to say, I had the time of my life. This book was too much fun—and it’s going to stick with me for a while.
Thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
*ੈ✩‧₊˚ "𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩?" *ೃ༄
Well, I’m destroyed all right.
What an experience this was. I didn’t even know it was science fiction! I haven’t read many of those, but I really liked this one—it was refreshing, fun, and unexpectedly heartbreaking. I might have shed a tear or two while reading it.
ೃ⁀➷ Um… at the risk of sounding dumb, this book was very scientific. So much biology, chemistry, and physics! Plus a ton of technology. It was fun, but also—my eyes definitely glazed over a few times trying to keep up. I’m pretty sure a good chunk of the science just whooshed right over my head.
ೃ⁀➷ So basically, Luzia is a human whose nephew gets kidnapped by the sinister Carrion (a.k.a. her love interest) who sells the kid to the Eoi, so Luzia goes after them and makes a trade—her nephew for herself. She signs a contract and becomes one of the Eoi, which means she can never go back to her human family.
ೃ⁀➷ What fascinated me most was the world. Like I said, it’s science fiction, but it also has a dystopian edge. The human world Luzia comes from is entirely artificial—everything is technology and human-made. She’s never seen trees or animals before. Actually, there are no animals in this book! Even the food seems to be manufactured somehow. They have systems that regulate and filter their air, and everyone lives in these structured “slots.” It’s wild.
ೃ⁀➷ The romance only takes up about 10% of the story, but it’s definitely enemies to lovers. Carrion is an absolute bastard for selling her nephew, so naturally, Luzia joins the team hunting the bastard down. Every one of their interactions was electric and so much fun to read.
ೃ⁀➷ I also loved Luzia’s personality—she’s a total math nerd, solving complex trigonometric equations since she was a kid.
ೃ⁀➷ With how things were going, I was not expecting the emotional gut punch this book delivered. It makes some bold choices—choices I rarely see other books dare to make—and for that, it has my eternal gratitude.
All that to say, I had the time of my life. This book was too much fun—and it’s going to stick with me for a while.
Thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
August 10, 2025
Terms of Service by Ciel Pierlot
4.5 rounded up to 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I am yet but a simple piece of sand. Ever-present in my environment, I peer into the skies and depths of Bastion. The wind blows me below, underneath, down below to where the Eoi dwell. The flora comforts me upon my approach. Flowers of all varieties shout their names for attention. There is a magical feel about this place. Queen Sef the Third rules this realm, and she calmly sits upon her throne awaiting to seal yet another contract.
Whisked forward, I land onto a lift that takes me through Bation itself and high above. I calmly land upon the shoulder of a Vespari, a menacing lot, commencing in the warfare of pit fighting. Rising above them all stands King Ari, their leader. These interesting characters are called Astrosi, and they are after one item, the diamond. I know this because I have been the victim of being trampled by Carrion, our rogue-like Astrosi, on more than one occasion in Bastion. Carrion is at the forefront of seeking this item, with those above and below in constant pursuit. Carrion has the advantage; they know the schematics of Bastion and play a cat-and-mouse game in places few dare to venture.
Our story begins with the child Stazi, who is stolen by Carrion and dragged down to Queen Sef’s quarters, with Stazi’s Aunt Luzia hysterically chasing them.
Luzia, or rather Ziane, Acolyte of the Deep, a name given to her by Queen Sef, has signed her life away to fulfill a contract. Once the ink has dried, Ziane becomes one of the netherworld and soon learns the ways of the Eoi. Her sole purpose for living is to hunt down Carrion, providing a sense of retribution.
Primarily made of SiO₂, or rather silica, for those unaware, I consider myself quite intelligent. However, I have been bamboozled and swindled by Ciel Pierlot, the author of this delightful novel. My perceptions were the truth, weren't they? Perhaps I didn't have the proper guide or map to see the answers more clearly... In this tri-level experience, magic persists. I feel the Astrosi calling out to me, and yet I ignore them. I gaze at the abrasions within the very fiber of Bastion's existence. The architecture is failing, and foundational cracks appear to be widening. I nervously await what the future holds for us, Bation dwellers, sandwiched in the middle of two magical domains on a collision course. Yet I can’t help but wonder, what lies beyond Bastion? Not above or below, but on the outskirts.
Simply fascinating! As the dust settles and the creaks go unheard, I leave this world utterly content. My suspicions were dead wrong. This is what downright awesomeness to the umpteenth degree looks like. The book plods along at a decent rate, whetting the reader’s appetite like a Spanish tapa. Ciel Pierlot has decided that enough is enough. The reveal happens, and my jaw drops, leaving me saying, "What just happened?"
Luckily, as readers, we read that occasional book where the created world just hits us differently. The characters linger just a tad longer, and our hearts pitter-patter slightly more. That was this novel for me.
Highly Recommended!
Many thanks to Angry Robot for the ARC through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
4.5 rounded up to 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I am yet but a simple piece of sand. Ever-present in my environment, I peer into the skies and depths of Bastion. The wind blows me below, underneath, down below to where the Eoi dwell. The flora comforts me upon my approach. Flowers of all varieties shout their names for attention. There is a magical feel about this place. Queen Sef the Third rules this realm, and she calmly sits upon her throne awaiting to seal yet another contract.
Whisked forward, I land onto a lift that takes me through Bation itself and high above. I calmly land upon the shoulder of a Vespari, a menacing lot, commencing in the warfare of pit fighting. Rising above them all stands King Ari, their leader. These interesting characters are called Astrosi, and they are after one item, the diamond. I know this because I have been the victim of being trampled by Carrion, our rogue-like Astrosi, on more than one occasion in Bastion. Carrion is at the forefront of seeking this item, with those above and below in constant pursuit. Carrion has the advantage; they know the schematics of Bastion and play a cat-and-mouse game in places few dare to venture.
Our story begins with the child Stazi, who is stolen by Carrion and dragged down to Queen Sef’s quarters, with Stazi’s Aunt Luzia hysterically chasing them.
Luzia, or rather Ziane, Acolyte of the Deep, a name given to her by Queen Sef, has signed her life away to fulfill a contract. Once the ink has dried, Ziane becomes one of the netherworld and soon learns the ways of the Eoi. Her sole purpose for living is to hunt down Carrion, providing a sense of retribution.
Primarily made of SiO₂, or rather silica, for those unaware, I consider myself quite intelligent. However, I have been bamboozled and swindled by Ciel Pierlot, the author of this delightful novel. My perceptions were the truth, weren't they? Perhaps I didn't have the proper guide or map to see the answers more clearly... In this tri-level experience, magic persists. I feel the Astrosi calling out to me, and yet I ignore them. I gaze at the abrasions within the very fiber of Bastion's existence. The architecture is failing, and foundational cracks appear to be widening. I nervously await what the future holds for us, Bation dwellers, sandwiched in the middle of two magical domains on a collision course. Yet I can’t help but wonder, what lies beyond Bastion? Not above or below, but on the outskirts.
Simply fascinating! As the dust settles and the creaks go unheard, I leave this world utterly content. My suspicions were dead wrong. This is what downright awesomeness to the umpteenth degree looks like. The book plods along at a decent rate, whetting the reader’s appetite like a Spanish tapa. Ciel Pierlot has decided that enough is enough. The reveal happens, and my jaw drops, leaving me saying, "What just happened?"
Luckily, as readers, we read that occasional book where the created world just hits us differently. The characters linger just a tad longer, and our hearts pitter-patter slightly more. That was this novel for me.
Highly Recommended!
Many thanks to Angry Robot for the ARC through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
October 17, 2025
This is a very interesting science fiction story. The Bastion is a world that is full of many pitfalls and crumbling era 1 tech. Luzia is a first responder, one tasked with keeping the people of the Bastion safe. This is all over when her young cousin is kidnapped and she follows his kidnapped into the world below with the Eoi capable of great magic. She makes a bargain without understanding to save his life and is determined to catch the chaotic trickster that had stolen her cousin. This is a fascinating story that leads the reader on a pretty unique science fiction story (don’t worry the magic ends up being a lot more like science than any known magic). I listened to the audiobook of this one and I liked the narrator quite a bit. The voice really felt that main character quite a bit.
September 13, 2025
Okay, this world was SO COOL. It’s this trippy mashup of space-fae, dystopian city vibes, and sci-fi tech that feels like magic. Bastion is gritty and crumbling, while the Astrosi courts are all eerie, mysterious, and a little terrifying. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to crawl inside the book just to explore.
Luzia was such a relatable main character, down-to-earth, smart, and stubborn in the best way. I loved how her determination to save her nephew dragged her into this bizarre, dangerous world where nothing makes sense but everything is fascinating.
The vibes? Immaculate. Strange alien gardens, contracts that feel like traps, and a constant push-pull between science and magic. It’s moody, tense, and a little bit weird in the best possible way. The pacing dipped in spots, but the ending totally delivered and left me thinking about it long after I closed the book.
If you like books that feel fresh, strange, and a little genre-bendy, this one’s worth picking up. Thanks to Angry Robot for the gifted ARC.
Luzia was such a relatable main character, down-to-earth, smart, and stubborn in the best way. I loved how her determination to save her nephew dragged her into this bizarre, dangerous world where nothing makes sense but everything is fascinating.
The vibes? Immaculate. Strange alien gardens, contracts that feel like traps, and a constant push-pull between science and magic. It’s moody, tense, and a little bit weird in the best possible way. The pacing dipped in spots, but the ending totally delivered and left me thinking about it long after I closed the book.
If you like books that feel fresh, strange, and a little genre-bendy, this one’s worth picking up. Thanks to Angry Robot for the gifted ARC.
October 11, 2025
Review originally on JamReads<
Terms of Service is a science fantasy novel written by Ciel Pierlot, published by Angry Robot Books. A novel that I've absolutely loved, and that continues showing the amplitude of registries that Pierlot can touch with her writing, a blend between science fiction and fantasy elements that allows her to explore current themes and with a scope that grows as we advance through the character's journey.
Luzia N.E. Drainway works as First Responder in the Bastion megalopolis, a city that spans between two realms that are the domain of the Astrosi, who normally don't involve themselves into human business. However, when Carrion, an infamous Astrosi trickster, kidnaps Luzia's nephew and sells him to the Queen of the Deep, Luzia exchanges her own life for her nephew's, entering into the Queen's service and starting a journey that not only will transform how she sees her world, but how she understand it. Chasing Carrion will be only the first step of a changing process in many senses for our main character.
Luzia is a character that contrasts with the world that is set as the background to her: even when things are going in chaotic directions, she's always trying to fit all into a scheme of reason and logic. It can be totally considered as a neurodivergent character, especially in some behaviour patterns; with that in mind, Pierlot delivers a complex and nuanced character whose journey is one of transformation along discovering the truth on his world. A journey that wouldn't be possible without Carrion and how they lays the hints and the signs that she needs to follow, even if she doesn't realize at the moment. Carrion represents a clash with the motionless vision of the world that everybody sustains; the one that is realizing how close they are to the catastrophe if they don't change things.
The cast of secondaries is a bit overshadowed by how powerful our duo is, but still they play a good role in the plot, especially when Luzia needs a push in the correct direction.
The worldbuilding is another of the highlights: not only for how it allows fantasy elements to coexist with a base of science fiction (the decaying technological city), but also how it ends pointing us to the need of working towards solutions now instead of closing the eyes and delaying the actions that could change it.
The pacing is a bit slower at the start, taking its sweet time to introduce us to this world, but it incrementally picks up, putting some slower scenes in between more tense parts, letting us some moments to catch the breath and incorporate all what we've read.
Terms of Service is an excellent science fantasy novel, continuing the excellent record of novels written by Ciel Pierlot: each one is its own beast, but all of them are absolutely amazing. Can't wait to see what's the next this author has under the sleeve.
Terms of Service is a science fantasy novel written by Ciel Pierlot, published by Angry Robot Books. A novel that I've absolutely loved, and that continues showing the amplitude of registries that Pierlot can touch with her writing, a blend between science fiction and fantasy elements that allows her to explore current themes and with a scope that grows as we advance through the character's journey.
Luzia N.E. Drainway works as First Responder in the Bastion megalopolis, a city that spans between two realms that are the domain of the Astrosi, who normally don't involve themselves into human business. However, when Carrion, an infamous Astrosi trickster, kidnaps Luzia's nephew and sells him to the Queen of the Deep, Luzia exchanges her own life for her nephew's, entering into the Queen's service and starting a journey that not only will transform how she sees her world, but how she understand it. Chasing Carrion will be only the first step of a changing process in many senses for our main character.
Luzia is a character that contrasts with the world that is set as the background to her: even when things are going in chaotic directions, she's always trying to fit all into a scheme of reason and logic. It can be totally considered as a neurodivergent character, especially in some behaviour patterns; with that in mind, Pierlot delivers a complex and nuanced character whose journey is one of transformation along discovering the truth on his world. A journey that wouldn't be possible without Carrion and how they lays the hints and the signs that she needs to follow, even if she doesn't realize at the moment. Carrion represents a clash with the motionless vision of the world that everybody sustains; the one that is realizing how close they are to the catastrophe if they don't change things.
The cast of secondaries is a bit overshadowed by how powerful our duo is, but still they play a good role in the plot, especially when Luzia needs a push in the correct direction.
The worldbuilding is another of the highlights: not only for how it allows fantasy elements to coexist with a base of science fiction (the decaying technological city), but also how it ends pointing us to the need of working towards solutions now instead of closing the eyes and delaying the actions that could change it.
The pacing is a bit slower at the start, taking its sweet time to introduce us to this world, but it incrementally picks up, putting some slower scenes in between more tense parts, letting us some moments to catch the breath and incorporate all what we've read.
Terms of Service is an excellent science fantasy novel, continuing the excellent record of novels written by Ciel Pierlot: each one is its own beast, but all of them are absolutely amazing. Can't wait to see what's the next this author has under the sleeve.
September 28, 2025
[This review can also be found on my BLOG]
**I received a copy of the book from Angry Robot Books in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, gun violence, blood, injury, death, loss of loved one, fire/fire injury, kidnapping, drug use, alcohol, grief
--
I absolutely LOVED this book!
It follows Luzia N.E. Drainway who works as a First Responder in the multileveled megapolis, Bastion. This colossal city spans between two realms – The Mists and The Deep – known to be the domain of the Astrosi, inhuman beings akin to fae/fey. On a regular day Luzia doesn’t give them too much thought as other than when their infighting adds some extra destruction to her ever collapsing city, the Astrosi tend to keep to themselves. That is until the infamous trickster Astrosi, Carrion kidnaps Luzia’s nephew and drags him down to The Deep to clear a debt with the Queen. Luzia gives chase and exchanges her own life for her nephew’s. However, signing her life and service away not only changes her fate entirely but her understanding of the world around her also.
Now I’m someone who doesn’t necessarily go looking for books involving fae/fey but after enjoying the author’s debut Bluebird and being drawn in by the absolutely stunning cover I decided to give this book a chance and I am so glad that I did!
Pierlot fantastically blends science fiction with elements of fantasy in a way that not only shapes the setting and the wider worldbuilding but also drives the story too. There is so much that goes on and I honestly couldn’t put this down! What begins as a very personal journey of saving a loved one and a quest fuelled by retribution to set things straight expands into a wider mystery that exposes much greater secrets of the world at large.
The worldbuilding was altogether fascinating and there was definitely this Alice in Wonderland feel to it all. The Bastion felt so vividly captured in its immensity as did the two Astrosi realms which were a mashup of peculiar and familiar all at once. I’ll admit I had some initial doubts when it came to the magic side of things but I ended up really enjoying how it came to play during the moments of action and showcasing the differences in the human and Astrosi lifestyles. If you’re someone who isn’t usually a fan of a little magic being sprinkled into your sci-fi I implore you not to write this book off as you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.
Luzia was a protagonist who felt like a breath of fresh air and was so fun to follow. When everything is chaos she stays true to who she is and chases reason and logic in order to find her answers. I really enjoyed the varying relationships she formed with the other characters who were all just as well put together. Her dynamic with Carrion in particular was quite fun, starting off as a cat and mouse chase that developed into an alliance that was just as enthralling as the story progressed.
I also thought her personal character development which was heavily effected by the choices she both willingly and inadvertently makes was really interesting, especially how it exposed the sense of morality of the world and those around her. There is a particular moment about halfway through that drives a significant choice that she makes and while I definitely saw it coming it still packed one hell of an emotional punch.
There is also another massive reveal that I’d say is less obvious which is slowly revealed as the scope and the mystery side of the story starts to widen out and it is one mind-boggling yet delightful little twist!!
I will say no more though and just urge you to pick the book up!! It has most definitely made my favourites of the year list!
Final Rating – 4.5/5 Stars
**I received a copy of the book from Angry Robot Books in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, gun violence, blood, injury, death, loss of loved one, fire/fire injury, kidnapping, drug use, alcohol, grief
--
I absolutely LOVED this book!
It follows Luzia N.E. Drainway who works as a First Responder in the multileveled megapolis, Bastion. This colossal city spans between two realms – The Mists and The Deep – known to be the domain of the Astrosi, inhuman beings akin to fae/fey. On a regular day Luzia doesn’t give them too much thought as other than when their infighting adds some extra destruction to her ever collapsing city, the Astrosi tend to keep to themselves. That is until the infamous trickster Astrosi, Carrion kidnaps Luzia’s nephew and drags him down to The Deep to clear a debt with the Queen. Luzia gives chase and exchanges her own life for her nephew’s. However, signing her life and service away not only changes her fate entirely but her understanding of the world around her also.
Now I’m someone who doesn’t necessarily go looking for books involving fae/fey but after enjoying the author’s debut Bluebird and being drawn in by the absolutely stunning cover I decided to give this book a chance and I am so glad that I did!
Pierlot fantastically blends science fiction with elements of fantasy in a way that not only shapes the setting and the wider worldbuilding but also drives the story too. There is so much that goes on and I honestly couldn’t put this down! What begins as a very personal journey of saving a loved one and a quest fuelled by retribution to set things straight expands into a wider mystery that exposes much greater secrets of the world at large.
The worldbuilding was altogether fascinating and there was definitely this Alice in Wonderland feel to it all. The Bastion felt so vividly captured in its immensity as did the two Astrosi realms which were a mashup of peculiar and familiar all at once. I’ll admit I had some initial doubts when it came to the magic side of things but I ended up really enjoying how it came to play during the moments of action and showcasing the differences in the human and Astrosi lifestyles. If you’re someone who isn’t usually a fan of a little magic being sprinkled into your sci-fi I implore you not to write this book off as you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.
Luzia was a protagonist who felt like a breath of fresh air and was so fun to follow. When everything is chaos she stays true to who she is and chases reason and logic in order to find her answers. I really enjoyed the varying relationships she formed with the other characters who were all just as well put together. Her dynamic with Carrion in particular was quite fun, starting off as a cat and mouse chase that developed into an alliance that was just as enthralling as the story progressed.
I also thought her personal character development which was heavily effected by the choices she both willingly and inadvertently makes was really interesting, especially how it exposed the sense of morality of the world and those around her. There is a particular moment about halfway through that drives a significant choice that she makes and while I definitely saw it coming it still packed one hell of an emotional punch.
There is also another massive reveal that I’d say is less obvious which is slowly revealed as the scope and the mystery side of the story starts to widen out and it is one mind-boggling yet delightful little twist!!
I will say no more though and just urge you to pick the book up!! It has most definitely made my favourites of the year list!
Final Rating – 4.5/5 Stars
November 27, 2025
Wow this was BLAND!!!
It was too monotonal for my liking but the story was fascinating so it was a hard one for me to try and work out if I liked it or not...
I enjoyed the dystopian aspects of the novel. I liked the writing but the book was soooo inconsistent.
It started amazing. I was like boom bam we are so gonna go... then I kinda lost the threads of the plot, it was so busy and the characters didn't develop well. Then the ending was such a let down... I still don't know if I should round ,my 3,5 up or down...
UGH such a shame
It was too monotonal for my liking but the story was fascinating so it was a hard one for me to try and work out if I liked it or not...
I enjoyed the dystopian aspects of the novel. I liked the writing but the book was soooo inconsistent.
It started amazing. I was like boom bam we are so gonna go... then I kinda lost the threads of the plot, it was so busy and the characters didn't develop well. Then the ending was such a let down... I still don't know if I should round ,my 3,5 up or down...
UGH such a shame
September 4, 2025
I received this book from Angry Robot in exchange for a fair review.
This book took over my life. I adored it. It'll be in my top 5 of the year, if not my favourite.
I read Pierlot’s first book, Bluebird, when it first came out. I thought it was good, but not amazing. This one I absolutely loved, though, despite the jacket copy featuring a word I generally gravitate away from, which is “fae.” This one, while it says it’s about that, really is not, or is so in a very minimal way. Or maybe I’ve been wrong all these years and I’ve been missing out on the fae?
Anyway, the setting is super freakin' cool. We have a human building/city of sorts sandwiched between a misty, vapourous area and an earthy, plant-based zone. To get to the levels requires a lot of bravery and magic, of a sort.
The descriptions of the areas are just so well-done and easy to picture. It’s incredibly immersive.
The characters are fun. There aren’t a ton for a large novel (less than 8 maybe?), but all of them are so interesting. The aloof Queen Sef was so elegant, and I loved Lysander. And, of course, who wouldn’t have a least a teeny book crush on Carrion, disaster non-binary person with smarm and just the right amount of arrogance? And then Luzia herself, who is so damn smart, very too-the-point, not that great in a fight (though she is very brave and resourceful), and incredibly morally staunch. Her story is heartbreaking but the decisions she makes throughout tend to go against the typical methods we often see in books. She was the coolest because she is smart and resourceful, not because she can kick everyone’s ass.
This book just has an amazing collection of fascinating characters, super cool worldbuilding, an engaging and easy-to-follow prose, a quest narrative plot that spirals into a mystery, and
a VERY subtle and delicious romance that I shipped from the start.
I loved this novel!
This book took over my life. I adored it. It'll be in my top 5 of the year, if not my favourite.
I read Pierlot’s first book, Bluebird, when it first came out. I thought it was good, but not amazing. This one I absolutely loved, though, despite the jacket copy featuring a word I generally gravitate away from, which is “fae.” This one, while it says it’s about that, really is not, or is so in a very minimal way. Or maybe I’ve been wrong all these years and I’ve been missing out on the fae?
Anyway, the setting is super freakin' cool. We have a human building/city of sorts sandwiched between a misty, vapourous area and an earthy, plant-based zone. To get to the levels requires a lot of bravery and magic, of a sort.
The descriptions of the areas are just so well-done and easy to picture. It’s incredibly immersive.
The characters are fun. There aren’t a ton for a large novel (less than 8 maybe?), but all of them are so interesting. The aloof Queen Sef was so elegant, and I loved Lysander. And, of course, who wouldn’t have a least a teeny book crush on Carrion, disaster non-binary person with smarm and just the right amount of arrogance? And then Luzia herself, who is so damn smart, very too-the-point, not that great in a fight (though she is very brave and resourceful), and incredibly morally staunch. Her story is heartbreaking but the decisions she makes throughout tend to go against the typical methods we often see in books. She was the coolest because she is smart and resourceful, not because she can kick everyone’s ass.
This book just has an amazing collection of fascinating characters, super cool worldbuilding, an engaging and easy-to-follow prose, a quest narrative plot that spirals into a mystery, and
a VERY subtle and delicious romance that I shipped from the start.
I loved this novel!
October 7, 2025
WHY IS CIEL PIERLOT NOT MORE POPULAR??? this is brilliant stuff. I have loved their last three books. they are ticking all my boxes. arghh
Wildly imaginative, both claustrophobic and huge in scope, this is a masterpiece of worldbuilding. Luzia N.E. Drainway lives in the Bastion - a vast megapolis of multiple layers, levels upon levels of humanity built upon itself. But both above, in the Mists, and below, in the Deeps, are the Astrosi: advanced, fey-like beings, who wield strange powers; but even they do not possess all the skill to unlock the technology of Era One.
Ciel Pierlot heard “sufficiently advanced tech is indistinguishable from magic” and ran with it. They have crafted a world both uncannily alien and eerily familiar. And in it, the trickster Carrion roams, who has stolen the life of Luzia’s nephew and bargained it for their own - forcing Luzia to pledge herself into Astrosi service to save his life. Now, bound into fey service, Luzia has one aim: to catch Carrion and earn back some freedom.
A weird game of cat and mouse ensues; but Luzia, whilst the hunter, is undeniably the mouse. And Carrion is hunting for something too - something of indescribable power…
Incredible craft and emotionally powerful. DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS.
Wildly imaginative, both claustrophobic and huge in scope, this is a masterpiece of worldbuilding. Luzia N.E. Drainway lives in the Bastion - a vast megapolis of multiple layers, levels upon levels of humanity built upon itself. But both above, in the Mists, and below, in the Deeps, are the Astrosi: advanced, fey-like beings, who wield strange powers; but even they do not possess all the skill to unlock the technology of Era One.
Ciel Pierlot heard “sufficiently advanced tech is indistinguishable from magic” and ran with it. They have crafted a world both uncannily alien and eerily familiar. And in it, the trickster Carrion roams, who has stolen the life of Luzia’s nephew and bargained it for their own - forcing Luzia to pledge herself into Astrosi service to save his life. Now, bound into fey service, Luzia has one aim: to catch Carrion and earn back some freedom.
A weird game of cat and mouse ensues; but Luzia, whilst the hunter, is undeniably the mouse. And Carrion is hunting for something too - something of indescribable power…
Incredible craft and emotionally powerful. DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS.
August 27, 2025
Ciel Pierlot’s ”Terms of Service“ delivers an intriguing blend of fantasy and sci-fi in a futuristic megalopolis setting. Luzia N.E. Drainway, a dedicated mechanic of Bastion City, plunges into servitude when a trickster Astrosi named Carrion kidnaps her nephew and she offers her life in exchange.
Atmosphere & Worldbuilding
The setting of Bastion City—a sprawling layered metropolis with lurking space-fae (the Astrosi)—instantly captivates. The tension between human society and the enigmatic Astrosi courts, who possess non-human tech and inscrutable magic, elevates the narrative. Worldbuilding shines by revealing only what Luzia uncovers, immersing us in the mystery of lost knowledge and a secret past. It’s a masterclass in keeping readers hungry for more.
Genre Fusion & the Astrosi
The portrayal of the Astrosi as “space fae” with a solid sci-fi underpinning is unique and compelling. Their arcane logic, contracts that twist human understanding, and the duality of two competing courts add depth and tricky politics. The duality of fantasy mystique and sci-fi rigor is executed with confidence.
Characterization & Development
Luzia anchors the story with grit and loyalty (to her people and her principles) that resonates. Forced into an astrosian court’s service by a binding contract, she evolves in radical ways—readers witness her transformation as she negotiates her devotion to her city and loved ones under extraordinary constraints. Supporting characters—like Carrion and the leaders of the Eoi—add layers of moral ambiguity and hidden agendas.
Pacing, Structure & Curiosity Factor
The novel’s pacing is agile and maintains momentum by unveiling secrets in carefully measured doses. The narrative’s choice to limit broader exposition and instead mirror Luzia’s limited knowledge adds both frustration and thrill, propelling curiosity about Astrosi history and the larger world order. That sense of “only knowing what Luzia knows” keeps me itching for a prequel/sequel—or at least a deeper dive into this universe.
Conclusion
”Terms of Service“ is a striking and inventive SF-fantasy hybrid. Its worldbuilding is lush, its tone both mystical and logical, and Luzia’s arc genuine and dramatic. The tension between personal sacrifice, strange contracts, and political intrigue delivers a memorable, immersive read. A hard 5 ★★★★★ for me.
Atmosphere & Worldbuilding
The setting of Bastion City—a sprawling layered metropolis with lurking space-fae (the Astrosi)—instantly captivates. The tension between human society and the enigmatic Astrosi courts, who possess non-human tech and inscrutable magic, elevates the narrative. Worldbuilding shines by revealing only what Luzia uncovers, immersing us in the mystery of lost knowledge and a secret past. It’s a masterclass in keeping readers hungry for more.
Genre Fusion & the Astrosi
The portrayal of the Astrosi as “space fae” with a solid sci-fi underpinning is unique and compelling. Their arcane logic, contracts that twist human understanding, and the duality of two competing courts add depth and tricky politics. The duality of fantasy mystique and sci-fi rigor is executed with confidence.
Characterization & Development
Luzia anchors the story with grit and loyalty (to her people and her principles) that resonates. Forced into an astrosian court’s service by a binding contract, she evolves in radical ways—readers witness her transformation as she negotiates her devotion to her city and loved ones under extraordinary constraints. Supporting characters—like Carrion and the leaders of the Eoi—add layers of moral ambiguity and hidden agendas.
Pacing, Structure & Curiosity Factor
The novel’s pacing is agile and maintains momentum by unveiling secrets in carefully measured doses. The narrative’s choice to limit broader exposition and instead mirror Luzia’s limited knowledge adds both frustration and thrill, propelling curiosity about Astrosi history and the larger world order. That sense of “only knowing what Luzia knows” keeps me itching for a prequel/sequel—or at least a deeper dive into this universe.
Conclusion
”Terms of Service“ is a striking and inventive SF-fantasy hybrid. Its worldbuilding is lush, its tone both mystical and logical, and Luzia’s arc genuine and dramatic. The tension between personal sacrifice, strange contracts, and political intrigue delivers a memorable, immersive read. A hard 5 ★★★★★ for me.
August 11, 2025
This ends up being a blend of Fae-based fantasy and hard sci-fi, in a way I wasn't expecting. It almost feels like another direction Destiny could have gone, once upon a time. We have various courts of Fae esque creatures in a sci-fi structure that's slowly collapsing, and a young woman who makes a pact with the Fae queen to try and save her family (and man, time scales are so a thing). This was a really interesting read, and definitely worth a read when this comes out this fall.
December 22, 2025
Thank you to RBmedia, NetGalley & Ciel Pierlot for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Genre(s): sci-fi.
Overall impression: sci-fi is one of my least read genres but I had a lot of fun with Terms of Service. The magic system, futuristic technology and mysteries surrounding the bastion had me hooked from start to finish. I really enjoyed the variety of characters too - they all had such distinct personalities, which translated well in audiobook format. Luzia was the main character and underwent extensive character development as she was exposed to a new society and environment. The pacing was a bit on the slower side to allow for this, which made some parts of the story drag on a little bit. The ending tied up most of the loose ends but some were left deliberately open. It fit with the rest of the story really well, given the characters had such long lives, so it didn't feel like anything was missing.
Tropes:
➵ Futuristic world
➵ Advanced tech left behind
➵ Hunt for the 'diamond'
➵ Immortal species
➵ Lost memories & identity
➵ Search for new life purpose
➵ Dangerous bargains
➵ Non-binary rep (villain/MMC)
➵ Morally grey characters
➵ Minor romance subplot (slow-burn)
➵ Death of core characters
⤷ Plot:
The story started off with one direction in mind but then quickly branched off to be something far more complex and intriguing. It was heavily character-driven and focused on themes of identity, belonging and finding a purpose in life, which Luzia had to do once indebted to the Astrosi. Towards the end of the story, we got to explore the fringes of the bastion and learn what lay beyond it. I really enjoyed the adventure and mystery aspects of it, and the open-ended happy-for-now conclusion. It all fit together really nicely and I'm glad that the future was left a bit uncertain given the long lifespans of the Astrosi.
⤷ Characters:
Luzia went through significant character development over the course of the book. At the start, she had a very ordered life with a full-time job, regular routine and few personal relationships. After her encounter with the Astrosi, that was all thrown out the window and she was forced to adapt to changing environments and contrasting personalities. Luzia maintained a strong moral compass the entire story, but by the end she realised that the greater good comes at a cost and if she wanted to save the universe she couldn't do everything by the book.
There were a lot of well-developed supporting characters, including the Queen, King and Carrion. Their personalities remained consistent throughout the book, and their actions all 'fit' with their particular ethics. I really enjoyed the banter Carrion delivered - it was a highlight of the story for me.
⤷ World-building:
I wasn't 100% sure what timeframe the story was supposed to be set in or how long the population had been in the bastion for. There was a mix of old and new tech, and terminology that is common today but has been forgotten with time. Aside from that, the world-building was pretty easy to follow. We were introduced to a couple different magic systems that were fascinating, and had clearly been planned out thoroughly. Even the little details like the contract seed made me feel totally submersed in the story.
⤷ Writing:
I enjoyed pretty much everything about Ciel's writing. The pace was a bit on the slower side at times but served the purpose of the plot really well. It allowed for a lot of character development and self-discovery.
⤷ Everything else:
Amanda Dolan narrated the RBmedia edition of Terms of Service. She had distinct accents and mannerisms for each of the characters, making it easy to work out who was supposed to be talking. The speed and clarity were perfect, so I could listen on 1x speed comfortably. I would definitely pick up other books by this narrator in the future.
Statistics:
➵ Date read: 16/12/2025-22/12/2025 (7 days).
➵ Page count: 13 hrs 20 mins.
➵ Type: audiobook.
➵ Volume: standalone.
➵ Special: NetGalley ARC.
Social Media Links:
Instagram | TikTok | Threads
Follow for reviews, unboxings and book aesthetic videos.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Genre(s): sci-fi.
Overall impression: sci-fi is one of my least read genres but I had a lot of fun with Terms of Service. The magic system, futuristic technology and mysteries surrounding the bastion had me hooked from start to finish. I really enjoyed the variety of characters too - they all had such distinct personalities, which translated well in audiobook format. Luzia was the main character and underwent extensive character development as she was exposed to a new society and environment. The pacing was a bit on the slower side to allow for this, which made some parts of the story drag on a little bit. The ending tied up most of the loose ends but some were left deliberately open. It fit with the rest of the story really well, given the characters had such long lives, so it didn't feel like anything was missing.
Tropes:
➵ Futuristic world
➵ Advanced tech left behind
➵ Hunt for the 'diamond'
➵ Immortal species
➵ Lost memories & identity
➵ Search for new life purpose
➵ Dangerous bargains
➵ Non-binary rep (villain/MMC)
➵ Morally grey characters
➵ Minor romance subplot (slow-burn)
➵ Death of core characters
⤷ Plot:
The story started off with one direction in mind but then quickly branched off to be something far more complex and intriguing. It was heavily character-driven and focused on themes of identity, belonging and finding a purpose in life, which Luzia had to do once indebted to the Astrosi. Towards the end of the story, we got to explore the fringes of the bastion and learn what lay beyond it. I really enjoyed the adventure and mystery aspects of it, and the open-ended happy-for-now conclusion. It all fit together really nicely and I'm glad that the future was left a bit uncertain given the long lifespans of the Astrosi.
⤷ Characters:
Luzia went through significant character development over the course of the book. At the start, she had a very ordered life with a full-time job, regular routine and few personal relationships. After her encounter with the Astrosi, that was all thrown out the window and she was forced to adapt to changing environments and contrasting personalities. Luzia maintained a strong moral compass the entire story, but by the end she realised that the greater good comes at a cost and if she wanted to save the universe she couldn't do everything by the book.
There were a lot of well-developed supporting characters, including the Queen, King and Carrion. Their personalities remained consistent throughout the book, and their actions all 'fit' with their particular ethics. I really enjoyed the banter Carrion delivered - it was a highlight of the story for me.
⤷ World-building:
I wasn't 100% sure what timeframe the story was supposed to be set in or how long the population had been in the bastion for. There was a mix of old and new tech, and terminology that is common today but has been forgotten with time. Aside from that, the world-building was pretty easy to follow. We were introduced to a couple different magic systems that were fascinating, and had clearly been planned out thoroughly. Even the little details like the contract seed made me feel totally submersed in the story.
⤷ Writing:
I enjoyed pretty much everything about Ciel's writing. The pace was a bit on the slower side at times but served the purpose of the plot really well. It allowed for a lot of character development and self-discovery.
⤷ Everything else:
Amanda Dolan narrated the RBmedia edition of Terms of Service. She had distinct accents and mannerisms for each of the characters, making it easy to work out who was supposed to be talking. The speed and clarity were perfect, so I could listen on 1x speed comfortably. I would definitely pick up other books by this narrator in the future.
Statistics:
➵ Date read: 16/12/2025-22/12/2025 (7 days).
➵ Page count: 13 hrs 20 mins.
➵ Type: audiobook.
➵ Volume: standalone.
➵ Special: NetGalley ARC.
Social Media Links:
Instagram | TikTok | Threads
Follow for reviews, unboxings and book aesthetic videos.
September 30, 2025
I have mixed feelings about this book while it’s very unique in its setting and world building there wasn’t enough world building. I can see what things look like but I wanted more from it. I feel like we scratched the surface of what could be so rich and immersive.
As far as characters go our FMc also felt a little 2 dimensional. I wanted to be in her head and feelings past her anxiety but all I can think of is anxious and logical. I don’t feel anything for her honestly I think we focused on the wrong character my fave was Carrion but we don’t get his POV but it’s the only one I really wanted I have so many questions about him and his life.
While this book had so much promise it just didn’t quite deliver. It’s an excellent idea but just not the execution I needed to see from it
As far as characters go our FMc also felt a little 2 dimensional. I wanted to be in her head and feelings past her anxiety but all I can think of is anxious and logical. I don’t feel anything for her honestly I think we focused on the wrong character my fave was Carrion but we don’t get his POV but it’s the only one I really wanted I have so many questions about him and his life.
While this book had so much promise it just didn’t quite deliver. It’s an excellent idea but just not the execution I needed to see from it
December 28, 2025
Amidst three warring factions in need of unity, one person’s intentions are harder to read than the rest.
Content warnings: violence, bodily harm, death, political oppression.
In Terms of Service, when Carrion, an outcast among the Astrosi, orchestrates the kidnapping of a human boy from the Bastion City, his aunt Luzia steps in to offer her own life in exchange, and so becomes entangled in the tension between two rival Astrosi factions. As she learns more about their world and the ongoing conflicts, she finds herself navigating a complex political landscape that makes her question everything.
The book explores several thematic threads, including power and colonization, consent and agreements, diplomacy between courts, and found family. However, it also leans on some familiar romantasy tropes, such as enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity, which occasionally feel clichéd. These tropes, combined with clunky dialogues, odd naming, and uneven pacing, kept the narrative from reaching its full potential, in my opinion. The writing style and editing could have been tighter, with sharper dialogue, faster pacing, and the removal of moments that felt awkward or unnecessary.
Despite these issues, the worldbuilding is impressive and imaginative, and the story contains interesting tech elements and political intrigue. Amanda Dolan’s narration is competent, with distinct character voices.
Overall, the story might appeal to young adult readers, newer fantasy readers, or those interested in intricate worldbuilding and political fantasy, while being aware that the pacing and some narrative choices may not satisfy more experienced readers.
I am rating this book 3 out of 5 stars, as its potential is evident, but the execution holds it back from a higher rating. I thank NetGalley and RBmedia / Recorded Books for the advance listening copy of this audiobook for an honest review.
Book Title: Terms of Service
Author: Ciel Pierlot
Narrator (if applicable): Amanda Dolan
Publisher: RBmedia, Recorded Books
Publishing Date: Oct 14, 2025
Your Rating: 3/5
#NetGalley #RBmedia #RecordedBooks #CielPierlot #AmandaDolan #TermsOfService
Content warnings: violence, bodily harm, death, political oppression.
In Terms of Service, when Carrion, an outcast among the Astrosi, orchestrates the kidnapping of a human boy from the Bastion City, his aunt Luzia steps in to offer her own life in exchange, and so becomes entangled in the tension between two rival Astrosi factions. As she learns more about their world and the ongoing conflicts, she finds herself navigating a complex political landscape that makes her question everything.
The book explores several thematic threads, including power and colonization, consent and agreements, diplomacy between courts, and found family. However, it also leans on some familiar romantasy tropes, such as enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity, which occasionally feel clichéd. These tropes, combined with clunky dialogues, odd naming, and uneven pacing, kept the narrative from reaching its full potential, in my opinion. The writing style and editing could have been tighter, with sharper dialogue, faster pacing, and the removal of moments that felt awkward or unnecessary.
Despite these issues, the worldbuilding is impressive and imaginative, and the story contains interesting tech elements and political intrigue. Amanda Dolan’s narration is competent, with distinct character voices.
Overall, the story might appeal to young adult readers, newer fantasy readers, or those interested in intricate worldbuilding and political fantasy, while being aware that the pacing and some narrative choices may not satisfy more experienced readers.
I am rating this book 3 out of 5 stars, as its potential is evident, but the execution holds it back from a higher rating. I thank NetGalley and RBmedia / Recorded Books for the advance listening copy of this audiobook for an honest review.
Book Title: Terms of Service
Author: Ciel Pierlot
Narrator (if applicable): Amanda Dolan
Publisher: RBmedia, Recorded Books
Publishing Date: Oct 14, 2025
Your Rating: 3/5
#NetGalley #RBmedia #RecordedBooks #CielPierlot #AmandaDolan #TermsOfService
December 26, 2025
“Dedicated to all my fellow messy anxious bitches.”
I've never dropped a book at the dedication before but, god, I'm tempted.
The term “hangry” is used.
Okay. The names. Luzia. Izax. I let Stazi slide. But, these are fairly common names made fantasy by inserting z's and x's. It's trite.
Stazi is ten, but he acts more like a six-year-old. Not believable.
Information is inexpertly dumped through clunky dialogue:
“I’m not actually on the Fire Safety Brigade. I’m a First Responder for structural damages and hazard containment.” Luzia says this to her brother, who should know what her job is.
“I haven’t even had my morning caffeine pill yet.” We're not in Kansas anymore. They've got pills. Shit's about to get wild.
“I’ve never been down this far before,” Stazi remarks after the first twenty-one minutes, pressing his face against the plexiglass window.
“I’m not surprised,” she replies. “You don’t have any reason to go down more than a story or two, now do you? Your school’s only a few sections away and I don’t live far.” She tweaks his nose. “Maybe I’ll move down to the first level just to give you an excuse to make the trip.”
Here, Stazi is being treated like a much younger child. I don't think the author has interacted with many ten-year-olds. Luzia also proves to be rather immature when she leaves the kid with a total stranger.
It's not clear how the Bastion is structured. The level they're initially on is 150 stories, about 1500 feet, but it's said the level beneath them would be “thousands and thousands of feet” below. It was constructed thousands of years ago and yet is surprisingly intact. I don't trust the author's concept of scale.
Luzia's stupidity compounds when she handles a mysterious crystal and seconds later has it stolen from her. She doesn't even try to get it back. She sets off a fire alarm and belatedly recalls that she has a ten-year-old nephew. It's humanizing for characters to make mistakes, but tedious when that's the basis for the plot advancing.
It's during this fire alarm that we learn that the jewel thief is Carrion, an Astrosi, a fae-like villainous figure. In other words, the love interest. That's what I assumed based on this sole meeting, and it does turn out to be the case. I'm surprised his name isn't Karrion. ACOTAR has caused irrevocable harm.
Carrion kidnaps her nephew. It's funny. There’s even a little note.
I’ve left the passage open. Follow me ;)
I don't know if this looks different in print. I hope so. Including an emoticon in your science-fantasy book is insane.
“...what Carrion wants, if they want anything beyond a base desire for malice.”
They want a desire? What?
The writing is not good, and the editing is questionable. Perhaps non-existent. For example:
…tilted her chin in a valiant effort up to muster dignity equal to the queen in front of her.
Obviously up is misplaced. It should be, “tilted her chin up,” and leave it at that. We don't need the second half of that wordy sentence. You're showing and telling. One or the other, you don't need both.
“You ain’t got…” What is this? Why did you think this was a good idea?
Does everyone have a British accent, or just the fae? I feel as blindsided by “innit” as “hangry.” And then “kiddo.” Dude, come on. I suppose British slang is as fair game as AAVE.
“...the child was stolen unlawfully…”
Is there a lawful way of stealing a child?
The sentence structure, the simple word choice, the constant rhetorical questions and ellipses, the barebones descriptions, how often information is repeated, is very YA. It's not a mature voice.
The dialogue ranges from unrealistic to uncanny. The worldbuilding is shaky and inconsistent, the plot is whatever, an excuse for exposition, and I rapidly lost interest. It's readable, so. There's that.
I've never dropped a book at the dedication before but, god, I'm tempted.
The term “hangry” is used.
Okay. The names. Luzia. Izax. I let Stazi slide. But, these are fairly common names made fantasy by inserting z's and x's. It's trite.
Stazi is ten, but he acts more like a six-year-old. Not believable.
Information is inexpertly dumped through clunky dialogue:
“I’m not actually on the Fire Safety Brigade. I’m a First Responder for structural damages and hazard containment.” Luzia says this to her brother, who should know what her job is.
“I haven’t even had my morning caffeine pill yet.” We're not in Kansas anymore. They've got pills. Shit's about to get wild.
“I’ve never been down this far before,” Stazi remarks after the first twenty-one minutes, pressing his face against the plexiglass window.
“I’m not surprised,” she replies. “You don’t have any reason to go down more than a story or two, now do you? Your school’s only a few sections away and I don’t live far.” She tweaks his nose. “Maybe I’ll move down to the first level just to give you an excuse to make the trip.”
Here, Stazi is being treated like a much younger child. I don't think the author has interacted with many ten-year-olds. Luzia also proves to be rather immature when she leaves the kid with a total stranger.
It's not clear how the Bastion is structured. The level they're initially on is 150 stories, about 1500 feet, but it's said the level beneath them would be “thousands and thousands of feet” below. It was constructed thousands of years ago and yet is surprisingly intact. I don't trust the author's concept of scale.
Luzia's stupidity compounds when she handles a mysterious crystal and seconds later has it stolen from her. She doesn't even try to get it back. She sets off a fire alarm and belatedly recalls that she has a ten-year-old nephew. It's humanizing for characters to make mistakes, but tedious when that's the basis for the plot advancing.
It's during this fire alarm that we learn that the jewel thief is Carrion, an Astrosi, a fae-like villainous figure. In other words, the love interest. That's what I assumed based on this sole meeting, and it does turn out to be the case. I'm surprised his name isn't Karrion. ACOTAR has caused irrevocable harm.
Carrion kidnaps her nephew. It's funny. There’s even a little note.
I’ve left the passage open. Follow me ;)
I don't know if this looks different in print. I hope so. Including an emoticon in your science-fantasy book is insane.
“...what Carrion wants, if they want anything beyond a base desire for malice.”
They want a desire? What?
The writing is not good, and the editing is questionable. Perhaps non-existent. For example:
…tilted her chin in a valiant effort up to muster dignity equal to the queen in front of her.
Obviously up is misplaced. It should be, “tilted her chin up,” and leave it at that. We don't need the second half of that wordy sentence. You're showing and telling. One or the other, you don't need both.
“You ain’t got…” What is this? Why did you think this was a good idea?
Does everyone have a British accent, or just the fae? I feel as blindsided by “innit” as “hangry.” And then “kiddo.” Dude, come on. I suppose British slang is as fair game as AAVE.
“...the child was stolen unlawfully…”
Is there a lawful way of stealing a child?
The sentence structure, the simple word choice, the constant rhetorical questions and ellipses, the barebones descriptions, how often information is repeated, is very YA. It's not a mature voice.
The dialogue ranges from unrealistic to uncanny. The worldbuilding is shaky and inconsistent, the plot is whatever, an excuse for exposition, and I rapidly lost interest. It's readable, so. There's that.
October 21, 2025
Interesting take on SciFi fae that didn't quite seem to know what it wanted to be.
From the desription I expected complicated political intrigue set in a bustling, hightec city. I also expected the Astrosi to be some sort of alien.
Instead I got fae shenanigans with lots of action and a bit of mystery.
The Astrosi are 100% just fae. There even is the whole two courts thing, the no lies but running circles around you verbally, the power over names, and the complicated, blink and you miss it contracts with complicated terms. This also included magic.
Though even then, the book itself is very unclear about the difference between Astrosi and humans - there doesn't really seem to be one, aside from the magic and long hair? Towards the end of the book, the origin of the Astrosi is explained, which I would have appreciated except that no-one in the book really seemed to appreciate the knowledge??
The first half of the book and the second half are completely different. I would even argue that they have different protagonists, as Luzia and her mindset undergo a massive shift. I would not have minded that split, except part two never ties back to part one, which made part one feel like an overlong introduction. It also meant that there wasn't a lot of closure to several monumental plot points.
I would argue that the book is a bit too long for its plot, especially the first half, but it truly was never boring. It's super action packed, and the action was well written and engaging too, and I say that as someone who often finds fights scenes to be boring to read.
I also really enjoyed Luzia's frank approach to conflict - she always wants to find a problem, to be diplomatic, but she also is not charming at all. But her artless approach at always being willing to give up information, always being honest and direct was a joy to read. I don't remember when I last read about a character like her.
She also read as autistic to me, though I don't know if that was intentional.
The mystery subplot was interesting, but ultimately it felt like the story lacked a clear antagonist an goal. Sure, there were fights with clear opponents, and Luzia is working towards a clear goal, but so many of the side plots felt like they led nowhere or were inconsequential because... nobody cared aside from her? The general lack of curiosity and depth of understanding from the vast majority of characters (and from Luzia for a big chunk of the book) made it hard for me to really care either - though I also think that this was at least partially done deliberately, due to the nature of the world.
The worldbuilding around the Bastion, the massive city the story takes place in, was pretty cool and the unfolding of knowledge was very well done. Just the personal stakes were not as high as I wanted them to be.
I do appreciate hat Carrion, who is arguably the main antagonist, is nonbinary. However, there is absolutely zero worldbuilding around gender and sexuality in the Bastion or Astrosi culture which made the choice feel super weird - there is not a single other visibly queer person or any hint of how "normal" that is. Which gave it a bit of a "only the villain is queer" bad vibes, though at no point did Carrion face discrimination for their identity.
Overall this was a fun read, though I missed a final conclusion for several key plot points, and more of a connection between the first and second halves.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
From the desription I expected complicated political intrigue set in a bustling, hightec city. I also expected the Astrosi to be some sort of alien.
Instead I got fae shenanigans with lots of action and a bit of mystery.
The Astrosi are 100% just fae. There even is the whole two courts thing, the no lies but running circles around you verbally, the power over names, and the complicated, blink and you miss it contracts with complicated terms. This also included magic.
Though even then, the book itself is very unclear about the difference between Astrosi and humans - there doesn't really seem to be one, aside from the magic and long hair? Towards the end of the book, the origin of the Astrosi is explained, which I would have appreciated except that no-one in the book really seemed to appreciate the knowledge??
The first half of the book and the second half are completely different. I would even argue that they have different protagonists, as Luzia and her mindset undergo a massive shift. I would not have minded that split, except part two never ties back to part one, which made part one feel like an overlong introduction. It also meant that there wasn't a lot of closure to several monumental plot points.
I would argue that the book is a bit too long for its plot, especially the first half, but it truly was never boring. It's super action packed, and the action was well written and engaging too, and I say that as someone who often finds fights scenes to be boring to read.
I also really enjoyed Luzia's frank approach to conflict - she always wants to find a problem, to be diplomatic, but she also is not charming at all. But her artless approach at always being willing to give up information, always being honest and direct was a joy to read. I don't remember when I last read about a character like her.
She also read as autistic to me, though I don't know if that was intentional.
The mystery subplot was interesting, but ultimately it felt like the story lacked a clear antagonist an goal. Sure, there were fights with clear opponents, and Luzia is working towards a clear goal, but so many of the side plots felt like they led nowhere or were inconsequential because... nobody cared aside from her? The general lack of curiosity and depth of understanding from the vast majority of characters (and from Luzia for a big chunk of the book) made it hard for me to really care either - though I also think that this was at least partially done deliberately, due to the nature of the world.
The worldbuilding around the Bastion, the massive city the story takes place in, was pretty cool and the unfolding of knowledge was very well done. Just the personal stakes were not as high as I wanted them to be.
I do appreciate hat Carrion, who is arguably the main antagonist, is nonbinary. However, there is absolutely zero worldbuilding around gender and sexuality in the Bastion or Astrosi culture which made the choice feel super weird - there is not a single other visibly queer person or any hint of how "normal" that is. Which gave it a bit of a "only the villain is queer" bad vibes, though at no point did Carrion face discrimination for their identity.
Overall this was a fun read, though I missed a final conclusion for several key plot points, and more of a connection between the first and second halves.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 16, 2025
I think I was left with too many how/why questions, all throughout the book but especially by the end. How/why were the Astrosi created? How did humans survive in the Bastion without regularly interacting with the Astrosi? How did they eat and maintain nutrition? What was with the weird fae vibes of the Astrosi, bound by arbitrary contracts and able to wield what is essentially magic?
The book felt like two very distinct stories that ended up having very little to do with each other. Our MC traded away memories and never got them back so that while plot line is left dramatically unresolved. We don’t really understand anything about the world, even after the big discoveries.
Like, all of this is going on around humanity and they’re not involved at all, so does their opinion not matter? Are they just going to be abandoned and ignored? It felt like we were going through an increasingly narrow scope even though the stakes were getting higher.
The concept of the world itself and its interesting mix of sci-fi and fantasy was definitely intriguing but I felt like I needed it to go much deeper than it did
{Thank you Recorded Books for the ALC in exchange for my honest review; all thoughts are my own}
The book felt like two very distinct stories that ended up having very little to do with each other. Our MC traded away memories and never got them back so that while plot line is left dramatically unresolved. We don’t really understand anything about the world, even after the big discoveries.
Like, all of this is going on around humanity and they’re not involved at all, so does their opinion not matter? Are they just going to be abandoned and ignored? It felt like we were going through an increasingly narrow scope even though the stakes were getting higher.
The concept of the world itself and its interesting mix of sci-fi and fantasy was definitely intriguing but I felt like I needed it to go much deeper than it did
{Thank you Recorded Books for the ALC in exchange for my honest review; all thoughts are my own}
November 17, 2025
Terms of Service is set in the breathtakingly strange world of Bastion City.
Luzia N.E. Drainway is a first responder in a crumbling steel megastructure city, a woman who grounds herself in logic and her repair work. That is until her nephew is kidnapped by Carrion, a chaotic Astrosi trickster. To save her nephew, Luzia strikes a desperate bargain with the powerful Eoi court, trading her freedom for his life. What follows is a descent into a mesmerizing realm of impossible logic, where contracts twist like living things, and science & sorcery are nearly indistinguishable.
As Luzia struggles to fulfill her new obligations and hunt down Carrian, she begins to uncover truths about Bastion, and herself, that reshape her understanding of her entire world.
Pierlot’s worldbuilding is spectacular, I was completely immersed and fell in love with this story and the strange world. As Bastion’s decaying tech and the Eoi’s surreal courts interlock in a way that makes every scene feel mystifying and exciting. Luzia is a refreshingly grounded protagonist, she's pragmatic, stubborn, & deeply human even in the face of otherworldly madness. Her dynamic with Carrion, that is rivalry and reluctant alliance, really adds to the story and actually was one of my favorite parts.
The audiobook narration by Amanda Dolan is perfection. Her performance perfectly captures Luzia’s determination mixed with dry humor. She gives distinct personality to the Astrosi characters. Dolan’s pacing and tone drew me right into Bastion’s moody steampunk atmosphere, it feels like being pulled into another dimension made of rust, decay, and a sprinkle of magic.
Terms of Service is a dazzling mix of genres, it's overall a story about sacrifice and the cost of survival in a collapsing world. Pierlot’s imagination is boundless, and Dolan’s narration makes it all come alive. If you love rich worldbuilding, strange magic as science, and a strong heroine with brains and heart, this audiobook is a must listen!!
Luzia N.E. Drainway is a first responder in a crumbling steel megastructure city, a woman who grounds herself in logic and her repair work. That is until her nephew is kidnapped by Carrion, a chaotic Astrosi trickster. To save her nephew, Luzia strikes a desperate bargain with the powerful Eoi court, trading her freedom for his life. What follows is a descent into a mesmerizing realm of impossible logic, where contracts twist like living things, and science & sorcery are nearly indistinguishable.
As Luzia struggles to fulfill her new obligations and hunt down Carrian, she begins to uncover truths about Bastion, and herself, that reshape her understanding of her entire world.
Pierlot’s worldbuilding is spectacular, I was completely immersed and fell in love with this story and the strange world. As Bastion’s decaying tech and the Eoi’s surreal courts interlock in a way that makes every scene feel mystifying and exciting. Luzia is a refreshingly grounded protagonist, she's pragmatic, stubborn, & deeply human even in the face of otherworldly madness. Her dynamic with Carrion, that is rivalry and reluctant alliance, really adds to the story and actually was one of my favorite parts.
The audiobook narration by Amanda Dolan is perfection. Her performance perfectly captures Luzia’s determination mixed with dry humor. She gives distinct personality to the Astrosi characters. Dolan’s pacing and tone drew me right into Bastion’s moody steampunk atmosphere, it feels like being pulled into another dimension made of rust, decay, and a sprinkle of magic.
Terms of Service is a dazzling mix of genres, it's overall a story about sacrifice and the cost of survival in a collapsing world. Pierlot’s imagination is boundless, and Dolan’s narration makes it all come alive. If you love rich worldbuilding, strange magic as science, and a strong heroine with brains and heart, this audiobook is a must listen!!
December 17, 2025
Luzia N.E. Drainway works at maintaining the crumbling systems and infrastructure of the giant megalopolis, Bastion City that the humans live in. All humans know of the Astrosi, who live both above and below Bastion City; the Astrosi are powerful, immortal beiny, and whose capricious nature is to be feared and avoided at all costs.
When Luzia's young nephew crosses the path of a rogue Astrosi named Carrion, she knows that reparations will involve handing him over, with him never to return to his family. Instead, Luzia proposes she go in his stead, and the Queen Sef of the Eoi, one of the Astrosi Courts, accepts this bargain. Luzia does not fully understand how final this agreement is, till she attempts to revisit her family, and discovers many years have passed, and her nephew grew old and died in that time.
Devastated, she returns, and dedicates herself to her new life, including changing her name to Ziane, and locating an errant member of the Astrosi, Carrion, who has been working to destabilize both Astrosi Courts, and all that the Astrosi here, and in a separate kingdom, too, have built.
So, sounds pretty much like Luzia has encountered the Fae, and that humans grub around in their tiny, failing city while the Fae live with plenty and magic. Except that’s not exactly what author Ciel Pierlot has created here, despite the similarities to the usual fantasy setup of humans and Fae living closely together.
Instead, after the initial setup, Pierlot blows our assumptions apart, and shows us what is really going on. Is it magic, or is it something more mundane, however complicated and advanced?
So, this is a story of adventure, rebuilding one's life after terrible loss, finding one's place in a practically alien world of difficult bargains and violence, then discovering shocking truths about everything.
Luzia, later Ziane, is wonderful. She is smart, compassionate, and willing to do much for those she cares about, and later those she is stuck with. Carrion is a great trickster character, doing seemingly bizarre and dangerous things, but which become clear once Ziane finally gets close to her.
I enjoyed this book, and felt so much for Luzia/Ziane, and her many dilemmas and choices. She's tough and determined, and honourable. Carrion is kind of fun once we get to understand her.
The world is great, and interesting. The Astrosi Courts are fascinating, and full of bounty, seemingly, and I liked the way Pierlot used Fae tropes and a Couruscant vibe together in this story, which keeps yielding its secrets in a great way.
I listened and read this story, and enjoyed Amanda Dolan's take on the characters in the audio version. Her Luzia is full of compassion and kindness, while her Ziane, goes from a little chilling to much more relatable the longer she digs into the Astrosi Courts and Bastion City.
Thank you to Netgalley, Angry Robot and to Rbmedia for these ARCs in exchange for my review.
When Luzia's young nephew crosses the path of a rogue Astrosi named Carrion, she knows that reparations will involve handing him over, with him never to return to his family. Instead, Luzia proposes she go in his stead, and the Queen Sef of the Eoi, one of the Astrosi Courts, accepts this bargain. Luzia does not fully understand how final this agreement is, till she attempts to revisit her family, and discovers many years have passed, and her nephew grew old and died in that time.
Devastated, she returns, and dedicates herself to her new life, including changing her name to Ziane, and locating an errant member of the Astrosi, Carrion, who has been working to destabilize both Astrosi Courts, and all that the Astrosi here, and in a separate kingdom, too, have built.
So, sounds pretty much like Luzia has encountered the Fae, and that humans grub around in their tiny, failing city while the Fae live with plenty and magic. Except that’s not exactly what author Ciel Pierlot has created here, despite the similarities to the usual fantasy setup of humans and Fae living closely together.
Instead, after the initial setup, Pierlot blows our assumptions apart, and shows us what is really going on. Is it magic, or is it something more mundane, however complicated and advanced?
So, this is a story of adventure, rebuilding one's life after terrible loss, finding one's place in a practically alien world of difficult bargains and violence, then discovering shocking truths about everything.
Luzia, later Ziane, is wonderful. She is smart, compassionate, and willing to do much for those she cares about, and later those she is stuck with. Carrion is a great trickster character, doing seemingly bizarre and dangerous things, but which become clear once Ziane finally gets close to her.
I enjoyed this book, and felt so much for Luzia/Ziane, and her many dilemmas and choices. She's tough and determined, and honourable. Carrion is kind of fun once we get to understand her.
The world is great, and interesting. The Astrosi Courts are fascinating, and full of bounty, seemingly, and I liked the way Pierlot used Fae tropes and a Couruscant vibe together in this story, which keeps yielding its secrets in a great way.
I listened and read this story, and enjoyed Amanda Dolan's take on the characters in the audio version. Her Luzia is full of compassion and kindness, while her Ziane, goes from a little chilling to much more relatable the longer she digs into the Astrosi Courts and Bastion City.
Thank you to Netgalley, Angry Robot and to Rbmedia for these ARCs in exchange for my review.
November 11, 2025
(Audio courtesy of RBmedia and NetGalley.)
4⭐
With its complexity, this story easily could have been a series, but the author chose to keep it contained to one book, and words cannot express how good a reading experience that was for me. I’ve complained in other reviews that authors now stretch stories into multipart runs, even going so far as to skip satisfying endings in each installment. So to have this all neatly packaged was marvelous! It made each bite of the narrative fuller, juicier, instead of being spread thin over three books. It didn’t just satisfy me as a reader; it also satisfied the part of me that loves writing-as-craft.
One thing I thought was cool: the story has strong fae vibes while being distinctly not fae. Not sure how much of a conscious decision that was on the author’s part (though I think it almost had to have been, given its complexity). The contracts, the warnings not to eat food from certain people, the time dilation… Very strongly Fae in Spirit But Subvert Expectations (™). Loved it.
For those looking for a full-blown romance, you won’t find it here. It’s more romance-adjacent—like the romance unfolds without the reader (or the main character) quite realizing it’s happening. No spice, only sweet kisses.
At one point I was really concerned the MC was going to get with Lysander, and I was NOT down for that. He was a douchenozzle of the highest order and there was never anything redeeming about him.
Which leads me to my one major complaint: Lysander himself. You know when a narrative holds one character up to another to highlight the good qualities of said character? This can be done subtly and with depth… or it can be done… uhm. Ultimately, the FMC faces off against Lysander in a showdown that falls flat. This man has anger issues yet is in charge of an army; whenever anyone pisses him off, he stops considering consequences?! And by the time they clash, the FMC has already shown she can outthink him—so why pretend her months of experience could compete with the decades he has under his belt?
It feels really cheap.
The rest of the story is fantastic, though. Excellent worldbuilding and inventive sci-fi. The plot is packed with secrets and twists, and while I had many pegged in advance, the reveals land with a strong, satisfying progression.
Audio-Specific 🎧: I ran this one a bit faster than normal because Amanda Dolan reads painfully slowly. Otherwise: totally fine narration—nothing notable, good or bad.
(Normally this is where I do a TL;DR, but I'm going to change it up this time.)
🤔 Afterthought: I described this book to someone as an acid trip in grayscale. No, I will not be elaborating.
4⭐
With its complexity, this story easily could have been a series, but the author chose to keep it contained to one book, and words cannot express how good a reading experience that was for me. I’ve complained in other reviews that authors now stretch stories into multipart runs, even going so far as to skip satisfying endings in each installment. So to have this all neatly packaged was marvelous! It made each bite of the narrative fuller, juicier, instead of being spread thin over three books. It didn’t just satisfy me as a reader; it also satisfied the part of me that loves writing-as-craft.
One thing I thought was cool: the story has strong fae vibes while being distinctly not fae. Not sure how much of a conscious decision that was on the author’s part (though I think it almost had to have been, given its complexity). The contracts, the warnings not to eat food from certain people, the time dilation… Very strongly Fae in Spirit But Subvert Expectations (™). Loved it.
For those looking for a full-blown romance, you won’t find it here. It’s more romance-adjacent—like the romance unfolds without the reader (or the main character) quite realizing it’s happening. No spice, only sweet kisses.
At one point I was really concerned the MC was going to get with Lysander, and I was NOT down for that. He was a douchenozzle of the highest order and there was never anything redeeming about him.
Which leads me to my one major complaint: Lysander himself. You know when a narrative holds one character up to another to highlight the good qualities of said character? This can be done subtly and with depth… or it can be done… uhm. Ultimately, the FMC faces off against Lysander in a showdown that falls flat. This man has anger issues yet is in charge of an army; whenever anyone pisses him off, he stops considering consequences?! And by the time they clash, the FMC has already shown she can outthink him—so why pretend her months of experience could compete with the decades he has under his belt?
It feels really cheap.
The rest of the story is fantastic, though. Excellent worldbuilding and inventive sci-fi. The plot is packed with secrets and twists, and while I had many pegged in advance, the reveals land with a strong, satisfying progression.
Audio-Specific 🎧: I ran this one a bit faster than normal because Amanda Dolan reads painfully slowly. Otherwise: totally fine narration—nothing notable, good or bad.
(Normally this is where I do a TL;DR, but I'm going to change it up this time.)
🤔 Afterthought: I described this book to someone as an acid trip in grayscale. No, I will not be elaborating.
July 25, 2025
I received a free copy from Angry Robot via Netgalley in exchange for a fair review. Publish date 23 September.
This book was already one of my anticipated new releases for this year, so I was happy to receive a review copy. In Terms of Service, first responder Luzia trades herself to the fairy-like Astrosi in exchange for them sparing the life of her young nephew. Plunged into an alien garden far from the sterile hallways she grew up in, Luzia slowly begins to realize that there is far more to the world than even the Astrosi know.
Terms of Service is a very worldbuilding-forward novel with a strikingly science fantasy setting. Luzia's home is dystopian, set in a gray world of corridors and failing life support systems, where people live off of ration bars and have never seen a live animal. The lush underground gardens of the Astrosi are deeply alien to her, not to mention their byzantine and punitive legal contracts. While Luzia sees the Astrosi as magical, it's clear that at least some of their powers are due to advanced technology, nicer food than nutrient bars, and binding contracts, rather than fairy magic. The mix of magic and aging technology make a compelling blend that's neither SF nor fantasy.
While the dystopian setting and plot focus on Luzia's slow journey to discovering the truth of her world is lightly reminiscent of the YA of ten years ago, the execution is very different. Most importantly, it means there's not a tedious romance with the Astrosi supersoldier who is loudly contemptuous about Luzia's inability to fight and shoot people. (Although there is an underdeveloped romance plotline with a different character introduced at the end of the novel). Luzia herself is a fun character--she's passionately devoted to her job as a first responder, and her narration constantly notes possible electrical safety hazards and degraded infrastructure. She's a woman looking for any opportunity to tell you Fire Safety Facts. Fundamentally, Luzia's first responder thing is a reflection of a desire to protect her community, which is also why she flat-out refuses to kill people.
Terms of Service is no Le Guin, but the worldbuilding felt fresh, the main character was a strong and original personality, and the pacing flowed briskly. Compelling.
This book was already one of my anticipated new releases for this year, so I was happy to receive a review copy. In Terms of Service, first responder Luzia trades herself to the fairy-like Astrosi in exchange for them sparing the life of her young nephew. Plunged into an alien garden far from the sterile hallways she grew up in, Luzia slowly begins to realize that there is far more to the world than even the Astrosi know.
Terms of Service is a very worldbuilding-forward novel with a strikingly science fantasy setting. Luzia's home is dystopian, set in a gray world of corridors and failing life support systems, where people live off of ration bars and have never seen a live animal. The lush underground gardens of the Astrosi are deeply alien to her, not to mention their byzantine and punitive legal contracts. While Luzia sees the Astrosi as magical, it's clear that at least some of their powers are due to advanced technology, nicer food than nutrient bars, and binding contracts, rather than fairy magic. The mix of magic and aging technology make a compelling blend that's neither SF nor fantasy.
While the dystopian setting and plot focus on Luzia's slow journey to discovering the truth of her world is lightly reminiscent of the YA of ten years ago, the execution is very different. Most importantly, it means there's not a tedious romance with the Astrosi supersoldier who is loudly contemptuous about Luzia's inability to fight and shoot people. (Although there is an underdeveloped romance plotline with a different character introduced at the end of the novel). Luzia herself is a fun character--she's passionately devoted to her job as a first responder, and her narration constantly notes possible electrical safety hazards and degraded infrastructure. She's a woman looking for any opportunity to tell you Fire Safety Facts. Fundamentally, Luzia's first responder thing is a reflection of a desire to protect her community, which is also why she flat-out refuses to kill people.
Terms of Service is no Le Guin, but the worldbuilding felt fresh, the main character was a strong and original personality, and the pacing flowed briskly. Compelling.
September 30, 2025
Firstly, I have to ask – Why is Ciel Pierlot not trending as a must read author? I just don’t get it! I absolutely loved The Hunter’s Gambit and to my detriment I haven’t gotten to Bluebird yet but, when I was offered the chance to read Terms of Service, I just couldn’t say no!
Once again Pierlot excels at delivering brilliant world building, great characters that are relatable in spite of their eerie foreigness – yes, I know that sounds wrong but, read the books and you’ll get exactly what I mean! The worldbuilding in this book is an amazing introduction to Sci Fi for anyone who has always loved fantasy – Pierlot mixes space-fae with dystopian vibes and scient fiction technology to deliver almost gothic eerie courts that just send that shiver down your spine!
And yes, (I know, I shouldn’t start a sentence with ‘and’ – tough!) the characters are truly brilliant – Luzia is so damn stubborn, smart and grounded, you wouldn’t believe it, whilst Carrion delivers all those morally grey, trickster vibes! I absolutely loved how at surface level it would appear that Luzia is the hunter and Carrion the hunted but, as I read further it became so much more. I must say that my heart was with Luzia (note the tense,) as she hunted Carrion to save her nephew, being dragged into an Alice in Wonderland/Borderlands type world.
If you’re someone who judges a book by it’s cover, then Terms of Service is definitely for you – just take a look at that gorgeous cover and I promise you the story inside most definitely matches up! I found the mash up between fantasy and Sci Fi to be very unique and I most definitely love how Pierlot builds the world and the characters within. There’s no question about whether I’ll be reading the sequel to this book – I love dystopian fantasy and when it’s mixed with just the right element of Sci Fi – I’m all here for it!
Thank you so much Angry Robot Books for sharing this arc with me in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Once again Pierlot excels at delivering brilliant world building, great characters that are relatable in spite of their eerie foreigness – yes, I know that sounds wrong but, read the books and you’ll get exactly what I mean! The worldbuilding in this book is an amazing introduction to Sci Fi for anyone who has always loved fantasy – Pierlot mixes space-fae with dystopian vibes and scient fiction technology to deliver almost gothic eerie courts that just send that shiver down your spine!
And yes, (I know, I shouldn’t start a sentence with ‘and’ – tough!) the characters are truly brilliant – Luzia is so damn stubborn, smart and grounded, you wouldn’t believe it, whilst Carrion delivers all those morally grey, trickster vibes! I absolutely loved how at surface level it would appear that Luzia is the hunter and Carrion the hunted but, as I read further it became so much more. I must say that my heart was with Luzia (note the tense,) as she hunted Carrion to save her nephew, being dragged into an Alice in Wonderland/Borderlands type world.
If you’re someone who judges a book by it’s cover, then Terms of Service is definitely for you – just take a look at that gorgeous cover and I promise you the story inside most definitely matches up! I found the mash up between fantasy and Sci Fi to be very unique and I most definitely love how Pierlot builds the world and the characters within. There’s no question about whether I’ll be reading the sequel to this book – I love dystopian fantasy and when it’s mixed with just the right element of Sci Fi – I’m all here for it!
Thank you so much Angry Robot Books for sharing this arc with me in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
September 4, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I will start by saying that prior to requesting this book on NetGalley I had never heard of this book or the author but was captivated by the absolutely stunning cover and interesting premise. Overall I enjoyed the book but I didn't love it. I was very intrigued by the plot and particularly the world. Recently I have really been into sci-fi and dystopian books, so this book should have been right up my alley. It had a very imaginative world and concept that drew me in. However, I struggled to stay engaged with this story all the way through and it kind of lost me after the first 25%.
I think that maybe I wasn't quite in the right headspace to pick up this book and put all of my energy into, and maybe on a reread I would rate it higher. The mixture of fantasy and sci-fi elements was a downside in my opinion and I would have rathered that it just stuck to sci-fi. The book was also extremely world-building focused rather than character or plot focused, and I think it would have benefited from more focus on those things. Same goes with the romance that I felt was very underdeveloped and either should have been completely removed or built on more. The pacing also felt a little off in places, particularly the middle of the book.
However, I really enjoyed Luzia as a character as well as the elusive Carrion and I am intrigued to see where the story goes after the cliffhanger at the end. I will pick up the sequel and probably reread this book when it gets closer to the sequel realising. I would recommend this book for people who enjoy world focused dystopian stories and don't mind a lack of romance or character-focused work.
Thanks again to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
I will start by saying that prior to requesting this book on NetGalley I had never heard of this book or the author but was captivated by the absolutely stunning cover and interesting premise. Overall I enjoyed the book but I didn't love it. I was very intrigued by the plot and particularly the world. Recently I have really been into sci-fi and dystopian books, so this book should have been right up my alley. It had a very imaginative world and concept that drew me in. However, I struggled to stay engaged with this story all the way through and it kind of lost me after the first 25%.
I think that maybe I wasn't quite in the right headspace to pick up this book and put all of my energy into, and maybe on a reread I would rate it higher. The mixture of fantasy and sci-fi elements was a downside in my opinion and I would have rathered that it just stuck to sci-fi. The book was also extremely world-building focused rather than character or plot focused, and I think it would have benefited from more focus on those things. Same goes with the romance that I felt was very underdeveloped and either should have been completely removed or built on more. The pacing also felt a little off in places, particularly the middle of the book.
However, I really enjoyed Luzia as a character as well as the elusive Carrion and I am intrigued to see where the story goes after the cliffhanger at the end. I will pick up the sequel and probably reread this book when it gets closer to the sequel realising. I would recommend this book for people who enjoy world focused dystopian stories and don't mind a lack of romance or character-focused work.
Thanks again to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
December 6, 2025
Audio ARC, many thanks to everyone who created this book and audiobook, as well as to NetGally for giving me the opportunity to listen to the audiobook.
The story starts with promise but lost me very quickly. The first part feels very YA and the world stays vague, which made it hard for me to get into it. Luzia also seems very young at first, and although she grows later on, it did not help me liking her more.
After about thirty per cent, I actually took a break because I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue reading. When I picked up the book again, it was easy to get back into it, but only because I felt that not much had happened before and the plot wasn't clear yet.
For me the story only reveals its real direction very late, around the last quarter. That was too late to build any tension I found interesting. The world has potential with its systems and technologies, but the added magic element felt confusing to me and weakened the world building rather than enriching it. Personally, I think the story needed a stronger focus; it would have been better if the author had chosen a clear path, either science fiction or fantasy; both would have been possible.
I also never connected with the characters. Without strong plot support this became a problem for me, and many elements felt either underexplained or not fully thought through. Even the ending did not tie things together in a satisfying way for me. Of course that might be because I struggled to get into the story at all, so readers who enjoy complex fantasy worlds might still want to try it.
A positive aspect for me was the audiobook narration. The narrator is pleasant to listen to, very clear, and works well even at higher speeds.
The story starts with promise but lost me very quickly. The first part feels very YA and the world stays vague, which made it hard for me to get into it. Luzia also seems very young at first, and although she grows later on, it did not help me liking her more.
After about thirty per cent, I actually took a break because I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue reading. When I picked up the book again, it was easy to get back into it, but only because I felt that not much had happened before and the plot wasn't clear yet.
For me the story only reveals its real direction very late, around the last quarter. That was too late to build any tension I found interesting. The world has potential with its systems and technologies, but the added magic element felt confusing to me and weakened the world building rather than enriching it. Personally, I think the story needed a stronger focus; it would have been better if the author had chosen a clear path, either science fiction or fantasy; both would have been possible.
I also never connected with the characters. Without strong plot support this became a problem for me, and many elements felt either underexplained or not fully thought through. Even the ending did not tie things together in a satisfying way for me. Of course that might be because I struggled to get into the story at all, so readers who enjoy complex fantasy worlds might still want to try it.
A positive aspect for me was the audiobook narration. The narrator is pleasant to listen to, very clear, and works well even at higher speeds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2025
Ciel Pierlot is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. I was extremely keen to read 'Terms of Service' after enjoying 'The Hunter's Gambit' immensely, and while this is a very different book, it's just as much fun.
Following heroine Luzia into the depths below her heavily industrial city in search of her lost cousin, we discover that this isn't just a protagonist 'going outside' to discover the truth about their world. This is more akin to Dorothy finding Oz - if it were beneath her feet!
Issues of class, wealth, politics as a whole and other such important 'real-world' matters unfold with an almost Dickensian flair, never becoming overwhelming, simply seen through the eyes of a very confused - albeit smart - woman. The characters are relatable (if sometimes weird!) and the fantasy worlds that we encounter, both above and below ground, are incredibly well-realised. I'm pretty sure I could draw a rough map of the areas that Luzia encounters, including the departments, camps and 'families' along the way.
The plot moves forward at a brisk pace but never feels rushed. There's the urgency of Luzia's constantly-changing quest, as multi-faceted as the societies she discovers, and I honestly felt as if I was there with her in spirit: yes, often lost, but also focused and determined to do her best amidst the strangeness. I found myself cheering her victories more than once.
Unusual in the best way, 'Terms of Service' is extremely original, so very imaginative, and always human. A definite recommend, and an author to watch enthusiastically.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
Following heroine Luzia into the depths below her heavily industrial city in search of her lost cousin, we discover that this isn't just a protagonist 'going outside' to discover the truth about their world. This is more akin to Dorothy finding Oz - if it were beneath her feet!
Issues of class, wealth, politics as a whole and other such important 'real-world' matters unfold with an almost Dickensian flair, never becoming overwhelming, simply seen through the eyes of a very confused - albeit smart - woman. The characters are relatable (if sometimes weird!) and the fantasy worlds that we encounter, both above and below ground, are incredibly well-realised. I'm pretty sure I could draw a rough map of the areas that Luzia encounters, including the departments, camps and 'families' along the way.
The plot moves forward at a brisk pace but never feels rushed. There's the urgency of Luzia's constantly-changing quest, as multi-faceted as the societies she discovers, and I honestly felt as if I was there with her in spirit: yes, often lost, but also focused and determined to do her best amidst the strangeness. I found myself cheering her victories more than once.
Unusual in the best way, 'Terms of Service' is extremely original, so very imaginative, and always human. A definite recommend, and an author to watch enthusiastically.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
July 27, 2025
4/4.5
Do you always agree to the Terms of Service without reading the contract? Maybe you shouldn't...
This book was a great read. I would suggest getting in the right reading space before starting it, because it's dense. It's separated into 2 parts and it makes the book even more interesting. The cliffhanger at the end of part 1 left me hanging; part 2 solved it. I'm a bit puzzled by the end, but it is what it is (no spoilers here for me, you will have to read it for yourself).
I really like the characters and their complexity. Lu and Carrion's dynamics were intriguing at first and then absolutely amazing.
A note: In some parts of the world wide wide, there is a mention about the enemies-to-lovers trope for this book, and YES, there is some of this. BUT don't pick this book for the romance, you will be disappointed, this is not the point of the book. It's more about emotions, feelings, interactions, the quest for truth, and the meaning of life.
I would recommend this book if you like sci-fi, dystopian worlds, and if you have read any of the dystopian books from the 2000s. That one might hit the mark.
Pick it up if you like:
- Sci-fi / Fantasy
- Complex characters
- World-building with layers
- Mysteries
- Quest for truth
I received an e-copy from Angry Robot via Netgalley. Thank you for the opportunity to roam the streets/corridors with Lu and Carrion. This review is my own and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
Do you always agree to the Terms of Service without reading the contract? Maybe you shouldn't...
This book was a great read. I would suggest getting in the right reading space before starting it, because it's dense. It's separated into 2 parts and it makes the book even more interesting. The cliffhanger at the end of part 1 left me hanging; part 2 solved it. I'm a bit puzzled by the end, but it is what it is (no spoilers here for me, you will have to read it for yourself).
I really like the characters and their complexity. Lu and Carrion's dynamics were intriguing at first and then absolutely amazing.
A note: In some parts of the world wide wide, there is a mention about the enemies-to-lovers trope for this book, and YES, there is some of this. BUT don't pick this book for the romance, you will be disappointed, this is not the point of the book. It's more about emotions, feelings, interactions, the quest for truth, and the meaning of life.
I would recommend this book if you like sci-fi, dystopian worlds, and if you have read any of the dystopian books from the 2000s. That one might hit the mark.
Pick it up if you like:
- Sci-fi / Fantasy
- Complex characters
- World-building with layers
- Mysteries
- Quest for truth
I received an e-copy from Angry Robot via Netgalley. Thank you for the opportunity to roam the streets/corridors with Lu and Carrion. This review is my own and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
November 3, 2025
This has some of the most interesting worldbuilding I've encountered in a long time. Hard sci-fi with a society sandwiched between two Fae-like courts of magical humanoid beings. The texture of this world is very akin to worlds like The Expanse with the main character pulling an Alice in Wonderland and ending up in the uncanny valley of the Astrosi courts. Unfortunately for me, the narrative beats and pacing felt extremely torn between dark whimsy and a sci-fi thriller. I received an audiobook copy from Netgalley, and the narrator was great, but I found myself dissociating from the story during peak action scenes. The cast of characters were fascinating but very few are developed well into being memorable characters as the focus shifts more towards worldbuilding revelations than interpersonal dynamics, which kept getting sidelined despite their deep relevance. Even with all that this could've been a solid 4 star read. Except then it ended abruptly just as things were getting interesting. Without spoiling anything, it makes no sense to me that the story doesn't tackle what happens when the leaders of the world we are in discover a foundational truth about the world they rule, something the reader spends a good back third of the book already knowing. I don't believe this is meant to have a sequel, but even if it did, that is an infuriating sequel bait. Still, if you're into genre bending, it might be worth checking out.
August 11, 2025
An imaginative world exploring entropy, and the danger of resisting change. This curious book takes fae like beings and puts them into an almost urban fantasy setting. It’s fantasy that’s leaning towards sci-fi. We have Luzia who lives and works in the bastion. She is meticulous in her work on safety and is trying to spread this knowledge to her nephew, her brother’s son and her dearest family. The bastion sits between two worlds of the ‘astrosi’ unknown and mythical beings that engender both fear and curiosity in the residents of the bastion. When her nephew is kidnapped, Luzia finds herself on a desperate mission to rescue him.
This started off well and I was fascinated by Luzia and her role working in safety and her attention to detail. This knowledge gives her an edge later in the story when she’s thrown into a situation that she isn’t prepared for and has a physical disadvantage for. I did find my interest waned a little in the middle but it definitely pulled it back towards the end.
There’s a fair bit of exploration of morality in this story, and how doing the right thing isn’t always the easiest, furthermore, the difference between cruel and heartless.
My second read from the author and I would pick up more from them. I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
This started off well and I was fascinated by Luzia and her role working in safety and her attention to detail. This knowledge gives her an edge later in the story when she’s thrown into a situation that she isn’t prepared for and has a physical disadvantage for. I did find my interest waned a little in the middle but it definitely pulled it back towards the end.
There’s a fair bit of exploration of morality in this story, and how doing the right thing isn’t always the easiest, furthermore, the difference between cruel and heartless.
My second read from the author and I would pick up more from them. I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
September 6, 2025
5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Terms of service was a real surprise and one of my favourite unexpected reads of the year. We follow Luzia/Ziane who initially lives in a dystopian society called the Bastion as she trades her life in service to Queen Sef of the Astrosi to save the life of her nephew. The Astrosi were fae like with their cleverly worded bargains but also unique in their ability to make more of themselves as a result of their bargains. This was a really interesting read and I’m looking forward to finding out what happens next now that the characters are looking towards the world beyond the bastion.
What I loved in particular:
- I really liked the dynamic between Ziane and Carrion. They really start out as the villain in her story with a real trickster vibe but she really tries to understand their motives and they gradually change her world view.
- I really liked the way the author handled the different passages of time between the deep and the mists and the human world. The trip Luzia is allowed to make back to the Bastion was utterly heartbreaking in a way a didn’t expect but made her story more compelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Terms of service was a real surprise and one of my favourite unexpected reads of the year. We follow Luzia/Ziane who initially lives in a dystopian society called the Bastion as she trades her life in service to Queen Sef of the Astrosi to save the life of her nephew. The Astrosi were fae like with their cleverly worded bargains but also unique in their ability to make more of themselves as a result of their bargains. This was a really interesting read and I’m looking forward to finding out what happens next now that the characters are looking towards the world beyond the bastion.
What I loved in particular:
- I really liked the dynamic between Ziane and Carrion. They really start out as the villain in her story with a real trickster vibe but she really tries to understand their motives and they gradually change her world view.
- I really liked the way the author handled the different passages of time between the deep and the mists and the human world. The trip Luzia is allowed to make back to the Bastion was utterly heartbreaking in a way a didn’t expect but made her story more compelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for the opportunity to read this ARC.
September 23, 2025
A mysterious science fantasy
—
All that Luzia knows is the Bastion, a labyrinthine interior world bounded by the strange and powerful Astrosi above and below the human world. So when one of these all-powerful Astrosi kidnaps her young cousin, Luzia has no choice but to follow into the Deeps, heedless of what she might need to do to save her cousin. The choices she makes, the contract she’s forced to accept, will take her far from the human parts of the Bastion, and into the orbit of the kidnapper, who knows things about the Bastion that no-on else will believe, but will test Luzia in ways that she would never have imagined.
An Alice In Wonderland redux, Perlot gives enough detail to delineate the several realms in the novel but not much more, while Luzia’s motivations are easily swayed once an obstacle appears or another’s will imposes. It takes until the penultimate scene for her to show her true colours, which is perhaps a little late; however, the ultimate mystery makes up for many of the deficiencies of the book. A strong entry into the science fantasy sub-genre but does feel a little light on world-building.
—
All that Luzia knows is the Bastion, a labyrinthine interior world bounded by the strange and powerful Astrosi above and below the human world. So when one of these all-powerful Astrosi kidnaps her young cousin, Luzia has no choice but to follow into the Deeps, heedless of what she might need to do to save her cousin. The choices she makes, the contract she’s forced to accept, will take her far from the human parts of the Bastion, and into the orbit of the kidnapper, who knows things about the Bastion that no-on else will believe, but will test Luzia in ways that she would never have imagined.
An Alice In Wonderland redux, Perlot gives enough detail to delineate the several realms in the novel but not much more, while Luzia’s motivations are easily swayed once an obstacle appears or another’s will imposes. It takes until the penultimate scene for her to show her true colours, which is perhaps a little late; however, the ultimate mystery makes up for many of the deficiencies of the book. A strong entry into the science fantasy sub-genre but does feel a little light on world-building.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews