There are no simple situations in life, and especially not in war, when two cultures are locked in a battle because of social miscommunication. Lowachee works through these issues with skilful assurance, and confident writing, which belies the fact that this is her first novel.
My only (minor) criticism is that the third section of the novel, where Jos is on the Macedon, lagged for me in places. Lowachee loves her tech, and knows her military, but I felt she over-indulged her interest at the expense of plot and pacing in this section. However, it's only in places, and it picks up quickly, especially as it rushes towards the climax of the novel. The second part, which describes the strit homeworld and culture, flows well and is a joy to read.
I already posses Lowachee's second novel, Burndrive, which is a set in the same cosmology as Warchild. I look forward to reading it. If it's as good as its forbearer, then I have a treat waiting for me.
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