Born Andromeda

Before this book’s start, Princess Andromeda of lunar kingdom Celestine was in an airship wreck that nearly killed her, and half of her body was replaced with top-of-the-line robotics to save her life. Now an 18-year-old cyborg, reserved Andromeda would much rather get her hands dirty fixing engines than perform her royal responsibilities, especially when one of the latter duties involves entering into a politically advantageous marriage to an Earth prince she’s never met. When her shuttle to Earth is hijacked by space pirates and Andromeda is taken hostage, she claims to be a mechanic named Andy. After the fearsome pirate Lord Captain Bran inexplicably declares her under his protection, Andromeda begins trusting the crew, developing feelings for both charming guard Allen, who promises to keep her real identity secret, and flirtatious doctor Mars. As she sails across the stars, she wrestles with her dual desires to return home and to embrace freedom. While Andromeda’s adventures can occasionally feel episodic, leading to disconnected storytelling, Watts capably threads royal intrigue and queer romance alongside themes of discovering one’s identity and rejecting expectations. A lively if predictable story, with likable characters and an expansive universe to explore. Ages 12–up. (Nov.)