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Dalí Tamareia #2
Peacemaker
Third-gender operative Dalí Tamareia thought their life as an ambassador ended when they joined a galactic intelligence agency. When they’re yanked out of the field and tapped to negotiate the surrender of deadly bio-engineered warriors who crashed into hostile territory, Dalí is thrust headfirst back into the tumultuous world of galactic diplomacy.
Dalí has faced Shontavians before, but not like these. The stranded mercenaries are highly intelligent and have an agenda of their own. Dalí can’t afford to be distracted from the negotiations by their own demons or the presence of a charming diplomat with a mysterious past.
As a brewing civil war threatens to derail the entire mission, Dali must use all their skills to bring this dangerous situation to a peaceful end—but the Shontavians may not be the biggest monsters at the table. Someone is determined to see Dalí and their team dead before they discover the brutal truth hidden in the wreckage.
Dalí has faced Shontavians before, but not like these. The stranded mercenaries are highly intelligent and have an agenda of their own. Dalí can’t afford to be distracted from the negotiations by their own demons or the presence of a charming diplomat with a mysterious past.
As a brewing civil war threatens to derail the entire mission, Dali must use all their skills to bring this dangerous situation to a peaceful end—but the Shontavians may not be the biggest monsters at the table. Someone is determined to see Dalí and their team dead before they discover the brutal truth hidden in the wreckage.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
3 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Hamill
13 books100 followersE.M. (Elisabeth) Hamill writes adult science fiction and fantasy somewhere in the wilds of eastern suburban Kansas. A nurse by day, wordsmith by night, she has sworn never to grow up and get boring.
Frequently under the influence of caffeinated beverages, she also writes as Elisabeth Hamill for young adult readers in fantasy with the award-winning Songmaker series.
She lives with her family, where they fend off flying monkey attacks and prep for the zombie apocalypse.
Frequently under the influence of caffeinated beverages, she also writes as Elisabeth Hamill for young adult readers in fantasy with the award-winning Songmaker series.
She lives with her family, where they fend off flying monkey attacks and prep for the zombie apocalypse.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 27, 2023
Another great book! I pretty much feel the same way about this one as I do about the first. The world-building was great. I love how serious and real everything feels in these books. I love how unpredictable things always feel. Dali’s empath powers make things more interesting.
While I was reading this book specifically, two of my notes were:
Dali is attracted to everyone, and I’m here for it.
And:
There are three maybe sorta love interests, and I just want Dali to end up with all of them.
Also, I sort of loved the Shontavians. (The big, hulking being on the cover.) I was fascinated by them and felt for them. They were created to be violent beasts, but they were trying to be more than that, better. There really is so much thought put into the different alien species in this series.
Anyway, read my review of Book 1 if you want more of my thoughts. Otherwise, if you liked the first book, keep reading because the second book is just as good, if not better!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in E.M. Hamill's The Dali Tamareia Missions series. Anyone who likes space adventure, politics, world-building full of alien species and cultures, nonbinary characters, emotional healing, stories that feel realistic, and found family.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
While I was reading this book specifically, two of my notes were:
Dali is attracted to everyone, and I’m here for it.
And:
There are three maybe sorta love interests, and I just want Dali to end up with all of them.
Also, I sort of loved the Shontavians. (The big, hulking being on the cover.) I was fascinated by them and felt for them. They were created to be violent beasts, but they were trying to be more than that, better. There really is so much thought put into the different alien species in this series.
Anyway, read my review of Book 1 if you want more of my thoughts. Otherwise, if you liked the first book, keep reading because the second book is just as good, if not better!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in E.M. Hamill's The Dali Tamareia Missions series. Anyone who likes space adventure, politics, world-building full of alien species and cultures, nonbinary characters, emotional healing, stories that feel realistic, and found family.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
October 31, 2020
If you read the first book in this sci-fi espionage series and you're trying to decide whether to read this, the answer is yes. If the first book in this series looks interesting and you want to know whether to read it, the answer is yes (unless of course the content warnings etc. tell you it's not a good fit).
My review of the first book: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A good review of this second book: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review of the first book: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A good review of this second book: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 31, 2025
This was absolutely amazing, what a stunning sequel, filled with diplomacy, negotiation, first contact, cannibalistic aliens and an intriguing cast of characters, all with their own agendas.
Read the full review on the blog!
Content warnings include: violence, cannibalism, torture, slavery, assassination attempt, caste system, experiments on sentient beings, substance addiction (specifically vapes), sex on-page, semi-explicit fecal matters; mentions of civil war, genocide.
The first book about Dalí, non-binary third gender changeling diplomant turned deep-cover spy, was already exhilarating, and Peacemaker is the more than worthy and equally thrilling sequel. I think it could be read on it's own, but works better as second of a series with the variety of established characters and frequent references to events from the previous book.
While book 1 already made use of Dalí's negotiation skills in a grand manner while they were undercover, book2 trumps this with its new mission that Dalí might not be able to turn back from. Because this time, they don't have to play a character, but take up their actual legal identity as former ambassador and diplomat to solve a highly complicated conflict.
It includes a planet where peace and mercy are equalled with weakness, a team scattered with ambiguous pasts and individual agendas, and a bio-engineered species of super soldiers conditioned to hunger for sentient flesh.
The Shontavians already made an appearance in Dalí, where they were as fascinating as they were horrifying, and Peacemaker makes them even more intriguing. Where Dalí dealt with a lot of personal trauma and tragedy, Peacemaker handles more grand scale atrocities and is filled with war, oppression and genocide.
The series doesn't only appeal with its excellent and breath-taking plot, but also with its complex and interesting characters. Not only through revisiting familiar faces and introducing new ones, all with their own agenda, but also through Dalí at the front and center.
I loved Dalí from the very start of the first book, and Peacemaker only cements that they might be one of my all time favourite characters. Their sarcasm is as prominent as ever, and while they still struggle with grief and guilt despite having found a place for now, they still have a long way to go. There is a ton of character development, much of which is tightly woven into the plot, and I loved the seamless combination of character- and plot-driven moments.
Despite the overall serious and slightly dire setting and plot, there's humor, sometimes unexpectedly basic jokes that made me snort from surprise. I still have to grin when I think about it.
To sum it up, I loved everything about Peacemaker. I wanted it to be longer because I wanted to never put this book down, and I wished some characters had had more on-page time.
Then there's the ending.
It absolutely wrecked me, in the best and worst possible way.
I cannot wait for the next book, Third Front, and see where Dalí's journey goes next, and who will be at their side.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Read the full review on the blog!
Content warnings include: violence, cannibalism, torture, slavery, assassination attempt, caste system, experiments on sentient beings, substance addiction (specifically vapes), sex on-page, semi-explicit fecal matters; mentions of civil war, genocide.
The first book about Dalí, non-binary third gender changeling diplomant turned deep-cover spy, was already exhilarating, and Peacemaker is the more than worthy and equally thrilling sequel. I think it could be read on it's own, but works better as second of a series with the variety of established characters and frequent references to events from the previous book.
While book 1 already made use of Dalí's negotiation skills in a grand manner while they were undercover, book2 trumps this with its new mission that Dalí might not be able to turn back from. Because this time, they don't have to play a character, but take up their actual legal identity as former ambassador and diplomat to solve a highly complicated conflict.
It includes a planet where peace and mercy are equalled with weakness, a team scattered with ambiguous pasts and individual agendas, and a bio-engineered species of super soldiers conditioned to hunger for sentient flesh.
The Shontavians already made an appearance in Dalí, where they were as fascinating as they were horrifying, and Peacemaker makes them even more intriguing. Where Dalí dealt with a lot of personal trauma and tragedy, Peacemaker handles more grand scale atrocities and is filled with war, oppression and genocide.
The series doesn't only appeal with its excellent and breath-taking plot, but also with its complex and interesting characters. Not only through revisiting familiar faces and introducing new ones, all with their own agenda, but also through Dalí at the front and center.
I loved Dalí from the very start of the first book, and Peacemaker only cements that they might be one of my all time favourite characters. Their sarcasm is as prominent as ever, and while they still struggle with grief and guilt despite having found a place for now, they still have a long way to go. There is a ton of character development, much of which is tightly woven into the plot, and I loved the seamless combination of character- and plot-driven moments.
Despite the overall serious and slightly dire setting and plot, there's humor, sometimes unexpectedly basic jokes that made me snort from surprise. I still have to grin when I think about it.
To sum it up, I loved everything about Peacemaker. I wanted it to be longer because I wanted to never put this book down, and I wished some characters had had more on-page time.
Then there's the ending.
It absolutely wrecked me, in the best and worst possible way.
I cannot wait for the next book, Third Front, and see where Dalí's journey goes next, and who will be at their side.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 11, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Peacemaker is the sequel to Dali, a book I was fortunate enough to review a few years ago. While it would help, greatly, to read book one, I think you could enter into this book and enjoy it on its own merits, but why would you want to?
Dali is a changeling, a being who has no set gender. When facing stressors, such as combat or conjugal relations, hormones flood their system and enable them to change — within some limitations — the shape and form of their body. Dali can express either male or female sexual organs, can broaden their shoulders to become more physically imposing, or become softer and more rounded. But even then Dali is still Dali, still someone who is their own gender; they are not agender, more … gender neutral.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Peacemaker is the sequel to Dali, a book I was fortunate enough to review a few years ago. While it would help, greatly, to read book one, I think you could enter into this book and enjoy it on its own merits, but why would you want to?
Dali is a changeling, a being who has no set gender. When facing stressors, such as combat or conjugal relations, hormones flood their system and enable them to change — within some limitations — the shape and form of their body. Dali can express either male or female sexual organs, can broaden their shoulders to become more physically imposing, or become softer and more rounded. But even then Dali is still Dali, still someone who is their own gender; they are not agender, more … gender neutral.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
February 29, 2020
I was sent an arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
I realised about a few pages into this that I'd accidentally requested a second book in a series but I was so caught up with the story and the characters that I just couldn't stop myself finishing it to read the first book first. Thankfully this one doesn't give too much detail about what happened in the first book just hints, enough for a recap to people who have read it but not enough to spoil it for me. I enjoyed this so much, I instantly went and read the first book after finishing it.
I don't normally read sci-fi but since reading a couple with heavy character focus and really enjoying them, I've started to think I could start to get into them more.
Thankfully I found the glossary at the back of the book quickly so I wasn't too confused with all the different alien races (my favourite are the Ferians, that cheek rubbing greeting was just too cute!) and politics being thrown at me. There is a lot of technology but it's easy to understand and not too unrealistic.
The thing I loved the most was the characters and their relationships. I felt so connected to the main character Dali and their colleagues. Every character is well developed and interesting. Even the genetically engineered killing machines were multi dimensional and complex.
The way that the book handles gender is fascinating, it's normally hard to picture a character without assigning them a gender since it's not done that often but the way this was written made it surprising easy and natural to do.
If you enjoy a book with characters you can really root for and complex and interesting world building, I highly recommend this series. I miss reading it already, I wish there were more books already released!
I realised about a few pages into this that I'd accidentally requested a second book in a series but I was so caught up with the story and the characters that I just couldn't stop myself finishing it to read the first book first. Thankfully this one doesn't give too much detail about what happened in the first book just hints, enough for a recap to people who have read it but not enough to spoil it for me. I enjoyed this so much, I instantly went and read the first book after finishing it.
I don't normally read sci-fi but since reading a couple with heavy character focus and really enjoying them, I've started to think I could start to get into them more.
Thankfully I found the glossary at the back of the book quickly so I wasn't too confused with all the different alien races (my favourite are the Ferians, that cheek rubbing greeting was just too cute!) and politics being thrown at me. There is a lot of technology but it's easy to understand and not too unrealistic.
The thing I loved the most was the characters and their relationships. I felt so connected to the main character Dali and their colleagues. Every character is well developed and interesting. Even the genetically engineered killing machines were multi dimensional and complex.
The way that the book handles gender is fascinating, it's normally hard to picture a character without assigning them a gender since it's not done that often but the way this was written made it surprising easy and natural to do.
If you enjoy a book with characters you can really root for and complex and interesting world building, I highly recommend this series. I miss reading it already, I wish there were more books already released!
May 19, 2020
Dalí has faced Shontavians before, but not like these. The stranded mercenaries are highly intelligent and have an agenda of their own. Dalí can’t afford to be distracted from the negotiations by their own demons or the presence of a charming diplomat with a mysterious past.
As a brewing civil war threatens to derail the entire mission, Dalí must use all their skills to bring this dangerous situation to a peaceful end—but the Shontavians may not be the biggest monsters at the table. Someone is determined to see Dalí and their team dead before they discover the brutal truth hidden in the wreckage.
While I loved EM Hamill’s Urban Fantasy novel, Nectar and Ambrosia, I must admit, I’ve been eagerly awaiting a sequel to her excellent sci-fi novel, Dali. Now, with Peacemaker, we have it. Was it worth the wait? In a word, yes!
I love how E.M. Hamill deals with building up non-human races, and this is no exception. She does a great job of giving enough detail relating to physiology and cultural practises without it taking up so much page space that it becomes overwhelming. It’s all worked in in a natural way, and the descriptions are littered with some lovely snippets of personality from the characters doing the descriptions. Case in point, Dali meets an animal they haven’t before and describes it as looking ‘like an old-Earth lemur if it mated with a pissed-off rugby ball.’
Dali Tamareia remains a fascinating lead too. Their gender shifting is less prominent in this book, but is still an interesting trait. We also get to see the continued effects of them losing their husband, wife and child, and how far down the spiral they’re going as a result. By the end, of course, they’re beginning to towards recovery, but it’s clearly going to be a long road.
It’s not all about tragedy with Dali either. They suit their role well, acting here as a negotiator but one that feels very human in how they approach things rather than remaining purely political. Which is amazing considering how political a situation they’re in as a result of the job. The whole story is a good one too with some nice twists and turns thrown in.
The action scenes maintain a high quality, with them feeling like they have some actual stakes. Not only are they linked to an events that have far reaching consequences, but because of the way Dali’s story plays out, you always feel like they may be in genuine danger. Also worth noting is that the erotic scene in chapter two never strays into feeling like it doesn’t fit alongside the sci-fi trappings, and is worked in well. I really enjoyed the ending too and the way it sets up a further book for down the line.
In terms of negatives, it will really depend on what you want from the book. It differs from book one in some was because the focus shifts away from Dali’s gender and features less erotic scenes. So, if you wanted something identical to the first book, you may be surprised. Don’t let that put you off though, because the novel really is a wonderful piece of work.
If it wasn’t obvious, I really enjoyed Peacemaker. At times, E.M. Hamill reminds me of Iain M. Banks, but not leaning so far into hard sci-fi. If anything, she creates a wonderful balance of giving enough detail and care in creating diverse worlds that hard sci-fi fans won’t be disappointed, but while not dipping into so far as to alienate soft sci-fi fans. This is an easy 5 out of 5.
As a brewing civil war threatens to derail the entire mission, Dalí must use all their skills to bring this dangerous situation to a peaceful end—but the Shontavians may not be the biggest monsters at the table. Someone is determined to see Dalí and their team dead before they discover the brutal truth hidden in the wreckage.
While I loved EM Hamill’s Urban Fantasy novel, Nectar and Ambrosia, I must admit, I’ve been eagerly awaiting a sequel to her excellent sci-fi novel, Dali. Now, with Peacemaker, we have it. Was it worth the wait? In a word, yes!
I love how E.M. Hamill deals with building up non-human races, and this is no exception. She does a great job of giving enough detail relating to physiology and cultural practises without it taking up so much page space that it becomes overwhelming. It’s all worked in in a natural way, and the descriptions are littered with some lovely snippets of personality from the characters doing the descriptions. Case in point, Dali meets an animal they haven’t before and describes it as looking ‘like an old-Earth lemur if it mated with a pissed-off rugby ball.’
Dali Tamareia remains a fascinating lead too. Their gender shifting is less prominent in this book, but is still an interesting trait. We also get to see the continued effects of them losing their husband, wife and child, and how far down the spiral they’re going as a result. By the end, of course, they’re beginning to towards recovery, but it’s clearly going to be a long road.
It’s not all about tragedy with Dali either. They suit their role well, acting here as a negotiator but one that feels very human in how they approach things rather than remaining purely political. Which is amazing considering how political a situation they’re in as a result of the job. The whole story is a good one too with some nice twists and turns thrown in.
The action scenes maintain a high quality, with them feeling like they have some actual stakes. Not only are they linked to an events that have far reaching consequences, but because of the way Dali’s story plays out, you always feel like they may be in genuine danger. Also worth noting is that the erotic scene in chapter two never strays into feeling like it doesn’t fit alongside the sci-fi trappings, and is worked in well. I really enjoyed the ending too and the way it sets up a further book for down the line.
In terms of negatives, it will really depend on what you want from the book. It differs from book one in some was because the focus shifts away from Dali’s gender and features less erotic scenes. So, if you wanted something identical to the first book, you may be surprised. Don’t let that put you off though, because the novel really is a wonderful piece of work.
If it wasn’t obvious, I really enjoyed Peacemaker. At times, E.M. Hamill reminds me of Iain M. Banks, but not leaning so far into hard sci-fi. If anything, she creates a wonderful balance of giving enough detail and care in creating diverse worlds that hard sci-fi fans won’t be disappointed, but while not dipping into so far as to alienate soft sci-fi fans. This is an easy 5 out of 5.
June 1, 2020
Third-gender operative Dalí Tamareia thought their life as an ambassador ended when they joined a galactic intelligence agency. When they’re yanked out of the field and tapped to negotiate the surrender of deadly bio-engineered warriors who crashed into hostile territory, Dalí is thrust headfirst back into the tumultuous world of galactic diplomacy.
Dalí has faced Shontavians before, but not like these. The stranded mercenaries are highly intelligent and have an agenda of their own. Dalí can’t afford to be distracted from the negotiations by their own demons or the presence of a charming diplomat with a mysterious past.
As a brewing civil war threatens to derail the entire mission, Dali must use all their skills to bring this dangerous situation to a peaceful end—but the Shontavians may not be the biggest monsters at the table. Someone is determined to see Dalí and their team dead before they discover the brutal truth hidden in the wreckage.
Review:
Dear E.M. Hamill,
I quite enjoyed the first book in this series and reviewed it at DA. When you approached DA with the offer of "Peacemaker" ARC I decided to wait and purchase my own copy instead and that's what I did.
I loved that the book started right in the middle of the action, or more precisely in the middle of Dali's undercover mission. Dali thinks that unexpected discovery can bring them closer to not only catching bad guys that they were supposed to nail as a result of the mission, but also bring Dali closer to finding people responsible for the death of their family. Unfortunately ( or fortunately) Dali is ordered by their superiors to abort the mission and basically evacuate together with his colleague who was also part of the mission.
The aborting the mission does not go without complications of course, but eventually all is well ( I am doing as little spoilers summary as possible here - needless to say all is well is a BIG oversimplification and only relates to this specific moment in time) and Dali is offered to head a complicated diplomatic missions which blurb described quite well.
While Dali is still grieving (and I would have been surprised if they abandoned their grief that fast), they managed to get themselves ( with some help) in a better head space at least where they found some renewed sense of purpose in serving the public again. Dali accepts the mission, but of course before they can begin, a lot of political maneuvering takes place and people who want Dali and their team members to succeed and those who don't had to come to some compromise ( at least the perception was that they did).
Dali is going to the planet where civil war basically about to begin. They want to do their best, to prevent bloodshed and keep peace, but they realize that they had to concentrate on the problem at hand - hopefully negotiating peaceful surrender for Shotavians and leave other conflicts to the local authorities on the planet to serve.
The story is just as well written as the first book. It was exciting, suspenseful and fun. The author avoided info dumps and reminded us about important things that happened in the first book throughout the story rather than giving a recap in the beginning.
I enjoyed Dali being a smart ass, and I thought that sarcasm applied in small dozes made it even more effective.
““Yes, sir.” I slipped out of the cubicle. He was right. Tired was stupid, and with my patience already sketchy, I might punch Khus in the face and cause a galactic incident. I didn’t give a fuck, but I really shouldn’t embarrass my mother that way.”
In short, I still think that this author can write really well. I was turning the pages on my kindle pretty fast. There is even a chance that romance may eventually develop or not. Dali may have to grieve for a long time, but I can see that signs of affection definitely develop between them and that other person. At the same time Dali just seems to really like sex and is attracted to several other beings during this book so maybe that's just part of who they are and no romance would ever be in the works.
Another thing I liked about this book is that in the book about politics and inter species conflict the author managed to talk about the issues relating to our reality while at the same time not make it a translation from the issues in our reality. Basically I did not have to read the things happening and think oh, that's a thinly masked reference to such and such event or such and such politics. It may be influenced by events in real life and of course fiction often is, but it is presented as a universal theme if that makes any sense.
I really had to remain as vague as possible writing this review, but I have to say this. I am dropping the grade from A- to B simply because of the ending. It was deeply unsatisfying to me and not because of romance or absence of such. Dali's mission ends in such a way ( and it is not even a cliffhanger I am not even sure how to call it) that felt as if everything they did in this book was for nothing. Like the rug was pulled or as another character tells Dali - "We got played".
I understand that this is not the last book, but I was not happy at all.
Dalí has faced Shontavians before, but not like these. The stranded mercenaries are highly intelligent and have an agenda of their own. Dalí can’t afford to be distracted from the negotiations by their own demons or the presence of a charming diplomat with a mysterious past.
As a brewing civil war threatens to derail the entire mission, Dali must use all their skills to bring this dangerous situation to a peaceful end—but the Shontavians may not be the biggest monsters at the table. Someone is determined to see Dalí and their team dead before they discover the brutal truth hidden in the wreckage.
Review:
Dear E.M. Hamill,
I quite enjoyed the first book in this series and reviewed it at DA. When you approached DA with the offer of "Peacemaker" ARC I decided to wait and purchase my own copy instead and that's what I did.
I loved that the book started right in the middle of the action, or more precisely in the middle of Dali's undercover mission. Dali thinks that unexpected discovery can bring them closer to not only catching bad guys that they were supposed to nail as a result of the mission, but also bring Dali closer to finding people responsible for the death of their family. Unfortunately ( or fortunately) Dali is ordered by their superiors to abort the mission and basically evacuate together with his colleague who was also part of the mission.
The aborting the mission does not go without complications of course, but eventually all is well ( I am doing as little spoilers summary as possible here - needless to say all is well is a BIG oversimplification and only relates to this specific moment in time) and Dali is offered to head a complicated diplomatic missions which blurb described quite well.
While Dali is still grieving (and I would have been surprised if they abandoned their grief that fast), they managed to get themselves ( with some help) in a better head space at least where they found some renewed sense of purpose in serving the public again. Dali accepts the mission, but of course before they can begin, a lot of political maneuvering takes place and people who want Dali and their team members to succeed and those who don't had to come to some compromise ( at least the perception was that they did).
Dali is going to the planet where civil war basically about to begin. They want to do their best, to prevent bloodshed and keep peace, but they realize that they had to concentrate on the problem at hand - hopefully negotiating peaceful surrender for Shotavians and leave other conflicts to the local authorities on the planet to serve.
The story is just as well written as the first book. It was exciting, suspenseful and fun. The author avoided info dumps and reminded us about important things that happened in the first book throughout the story rather than giving a recap in the beginning.
I enjoyed Dali being a smart ass, and I thought that sarcasm applied in small dozes made it even more effective.
““Yes, sir.” I slipped out of the cubicle. He was right. Tired was stupid, and with my patience already sketchy, I might punch Khus in the face and cause a galactic incident. I didn’t give a fuck, but I really shouldn’t embarrass my mother that way.”
In short, I still think that this author can write really well. I was turning the pages on my kindle pretty fast. There is even a chance that romance may eventually develop or not. Dali may have to grieve for a long time, but I can see that signs of affection definitely develop between them and that other person. At the same time Dali just seems to really like sex and is attracted to several other beings during this book so maybe that's just part of who they are and no romance would ever be in the works.
Another thing I liked about this book is that in the book about politics and inter species conflict the author managed to talk about the issues relating to our reality while at the same time not make it a translation from the issues in our reality. Basically I did not have to read the things happening and think oh, that's a thinly masked reference to such and such event or such and such politics. It may be influenced by events in real life and of course fiction often is, but it is presented as a universal theme if that makes any sense.
I really had to remain as vague as possible writing this review, but I have to say this. I am dropping the grade from A- to B simply because of the ending. It was deeply unsatisfying to me and not because of romance or absence of such. Dali's mission ends in such a way ( and it is not even a cliffhanger I am not even sure how to call it) that felt as if everything they did in this book was for nothing. Like the rug was pulled or as another character tells Dali - "We got played".
I understand that this is not the last book, but I was not happy at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2020
PEACEMAKER is a sequel to Hamill's book "Dalí," a thrilling space drama about a third gender changeling who, while crumbling under grief over the deaths of their family, accepts a dangerous undercover mission to save other changelings from a mysterious human trafficking scheme. Changelings are intersex humans who can assume the secondary sex characteristics of both males and females. The narrative is gut-clenching, well-rounded, and surprisingly sexy. Dalí's first person narration is visceral and hilarious -- it'll hook you in and make you love them.
The continuation of the story in PEACEMAKER blends seamlessly with the yet unsolved questions asked at the end of Dalí. Though our hero is in a different headspace than the first book, the progression feels natural and not like their character has been altered just to fit the plot. In PEACEMAKER their charm shines brightly even though they are still struggling with grief and self-destruction.
As an aside -- at the beginning of both books there are content warnings to let readers know what they're getting into, something I dearly appreciate.
The story in PEACEMAKER evolves and twists truths believed to be concrete in "Dalí," adding dimension to the overall narrative in a way that made my stomach clench. The Shontavians are truly, truly excellent creatures and the alpha's character was extremely easy to empathize with.
I found the plot twists to be engaging without destroying the story's cohesion. Some of them I guessed but the way they came about was like a gut punch.
Dalí as a character is quite sexual. There's less sex in this book than the first one, but their would-be intimate connections are charming and leave the reader wanting them to have a healthy relationship for once, damn it! (Be prepared to scream at the end if these plotlines are your thing.)
An element I like about Hamill's writing is that she does not shy away from body reality. There is mild gore, realistic description of injuries, and hilarious attention paid to the horror of bodily functions.
As always, I love Hamill's side characters. Even the smallest cameos brought warmth and joy to my heart -- with the exception of the villains, who elicited a proper amount of searing hatred and, when appropriate, fear. One of the antagonist's dialogue was BONE-CHILLING. I still shiver at the memory.
I cannot speak more highly of this series. It rocketed to the top of my faves. I've reread Dalí multiple times and plan to do the same with PEACEMAKER.
The continuation of the story in PEACEMAKER blends seamlessly with the yet unsolved questions asked at the end of Dalí. Though our hero is in a different headspace than the first book, the progression feels natural and not like their character has been altered just to fit the plot. In PEACEMAKER their charm shines brightly even though they are still struggling with grief and self-destruction.
As an aside -- at the beginning of both books there are content warnings to let readers know what they're getting into, something I dearly appreciate.
The story in PEACEMAKER evolves and twists truths believed to be concrete in "Dalí," adding dimension to the overall narrative in a way that made my stomach clench. The Shontavians are truly, truly excellent creatures and the alpha's character was extremely easy to empathize with.
I found the plot twists to be engaging without destroying the story's cohesion. Some of them I guessed but the way they came about was like a gut punch.
Dalí as a character is quite sexual. There's less sex in this book than the first one, but their would-be intimate connections are charming and leave the reader wanting them to have a healthy relationship for once, damn it! (Be prepared to scream at the end if these plotlines are your thing.)
An element I like about Hamill's writing is that she does not shy away from body reality. There is mild gore, realistic description of injuries, and hilarious attention paid to the horror of bodily functions.
As always, I love Hamill's side characters. Even the smallest cameos brought warmth and joy to my heart -- with the exception of the villains, who elicited a proper amount of searing hatred and, when appropriate, fear. One of the antagonist's dialogue was BONE-CHILLING. I still shiver at the memory.
I cannot speak more highly of this series. It rocketed to the top of my faves. I've reread Dalí multiple times and plan to do the same with PEACEMAKER.
April 6, 2020
I loved the first book in this series and I think I love this one even more. The universe and storyline continue to develop in fascinating and exciting ways, and there’s just as much, if not more, excitement, intrigue, and adventure here as in the first installment (I’m being vague because spoilers are not cool, but trust me, the plot is riveting).
The writing style is great: lots of description and detail in a way that feels fluid and immersive, rather than overwhelming.
Without a doubt, however, the best part of this novel for me was Dali. They’re such a nuanced person, so absolutely brilliant and insightful in some ways and entirely oblivious in others: for an empath and a skilled diplomat trained in body language their inability to see a certain someone’s very very romantic, very very sweet feelings for them is impressive and maddening. It is frustrating in the most fun way to watch them miss the obvious cues, from this person and from their own psyche.
The last sentence promises that Dali’s story will continue in the next installment, and I cannot wait to find out what happens next: for the overarching storyline and for the romance.
*I received an ARC and voluntarily composed an unbiased review.
The writing style is great: lots of description and detail in a way that feels fluid and immersive, rather than overwhelming.
Without a doubt, however, the best part of this novel for me was Dali. They’re such a nuanced person, so absolutely brilliant and insightful in some ways and entirely oblivious in others: for an empath and a skilled diplomat trained in body language their inability to see a certain someone’s very very romantic, very very sweet feelings for them is impressive and maddening. It is frustrating in the most fun way to watch them miss the obvious cues, from this person and from their own psyche.
The last sentence promises that Dali’s story will continue in the next installment, and I cannot wait to find out what happens next: for the overarching storyline and for the romance.
*I received an ARC and voluntarily composed an unbiased review.
March 10, 2024
I'm broken hearted and traumatised. My heart is broken. Poor Dalí!
That out of the way, Peacemaker has Dalí playing ambassador yet again. The facility where Shontovians are bio engineered has crashed to Ursetu and the Ursetu have lost control of their creations. They have applied for a membership to the Remoliad and needs someone to negotiate with the Shontovians. Dalí is the perfect person since they have already dealt with Shontovians successfully once.
The second book of the Dalí Tamereia series has more details on the Ursetu, on the inhumane treatment of Shontovians and more on Sumner's background. Alecto Sim, the head of the Remoliad Security Council turns out to be an old acquaintance/friend/lover of Sumner's. The Lord Rhix of the previous book is actually prince Nazheer of Ursetu and he makes an appearance in this book as well as does Gor and the crew of the Thunder Child.
Dalí and her friends have their work cut out as they realise that someone high up in the Ursetu is behind the crash and that the Shontovians are expected to kill the queen. Dalí has to ensure their safety and survival while the clock is ticking against them all.
All in all, this was as entertaining a read as the first and I'm really looking forward to the last book now!
If you love sci fi, alien civilisations and cultures, moral quandaries, queer characters, action, space flights and fights, you will love this book!
That out of the way, Peacemaker has Dalí playing ambassador yet again. The facility where Shontovians are bio engineered has crashed to Ursetu and the Ursetu have lost control of their creations. They have applied for a membership to the Remoliad and needs someone to negotiate with the Shontovians. Dalí is the perfect person since they have already dealt with Shontovians successfully once.
The second book of the Dalí Tamereia series has more details on the Ursetu, on the inhumane treatment of Shontovians and more on Sumner's background. Alecto Sim, the head of the Remoliad Security Council turns out to be an old acquaintance/friend/lover of Sumner's. The Lord Rhix of the previous book is actually prince Nazheer of Ursetu and he makes an appearance in this book as well as does Gor and the crew of the Thunder Child.
Dalí and her friends have their work cut out as they realise that someone high up in the Ursetu is behind the crash and that the Shontovians are expected to kill the queen. Dalí has to ensure their safety and survival while the clock is ticking against them all.
All in all, this was as entertaining a read as the first and I'm really looking forward to the last book now!
If you love sci fi, alien civilisations and cultures, moral quandaries, queer characters, action, space flights and fights, you will love this book!
August 6, 2020
Our hero has given up on diplomacy for the less dangerous front line of battle. But when his skills are needed he is once again called into a battle of words.
Turns out this is actually book two of the series, but I can tell you that it reads just fine as a standalone. I had no problems starting here.
The story is well written with a nicely developed setting and complex characters that have their own motivations, skills, fears, etc. It is really nice to have such solid players on the field and it makes the entire story come alive. The plot is fast paced and includes lots of intrigue, twists and turns so you are never quite sure where things are going. The result is a story that grabs hold and won't let go. Overall, an excellent read and I look forward to more from this author.
Highly recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes
Turns out this is actually book two of the series, but I can tell you that it reads just fine as a standalone. I had no problems starting here.
The story is well written with a nicely developed setting and complex characters that have their own motivations, skills, fears, etc. It is really nice to have such solid players on the field and it makes the entire story come alive. The plot is fast paced and includes lots of intrigue, twists and turns so you are never quite sure where things are going. The result is a story that grabs hold and won't let go. Overall, an excellent read and I look forward to more from this author.
Highly recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes
April 6, 2022
Dalí is one of my all-time favorite novels. I was given the extreme privilege of beta-reading Peacemaker, and whew boy was I not disappointed.
Peacemaker manages to incorporate the things we love about the first book--the characters, the effortless world building, the action and sass--while still being something completely new and refreshing. Characters grow and deepen, the world rises up around us and sucks us in, and new conflict drags us into the story without hesitation. I am always floored by how absolutely human our heroes are (even the ones who aren't technically human) and how much heart Hamill can sew into her prose. Once I started I couldn't put the book down. If you're into sci-fi, you should be reading this series. If you enjoyed Dalí, this installment will not disappoint.
Peacemaker manages to incorporate the things we love about the first book--the characters, the effortless world building, the action and sass--while still being something completely new and refreshing. Characters grow and deepen, the world rises up around us and sucks us in, and new conflict drags us into the story without hesitation. I am always floored by how absolutely human our heroes are (even the ones who aren't technically human) and how much heart Hamill can sew into her prose. Once I started I couldn't put the book down. If you're into sci-fi, you should be reading this series. If you enjoyed Dalí, this installment will not disappoint.
May 30, 2020
It took me a little while to get into this book. I think mostly because it's been a while since I read the first one and I didn't remember a lot. But by the time the plot really got rolling, I'd mostly caught up. I enjoyed quite a lot about it. Dali is a likable character. The universe is an interesting one, and the plot kept me engaged (even if very little of it was a surprise). The one thing I didn't see coming, the twist at the end, didn't feel believable, however. I can think of several ways it might play out and become more believable though. So, I look forward to the continuation to see what happens.
November 14, 2021
If there is something I despise in a story is the fact that by the end of the book yet another issue comes up and it leaves it in limbo. So is the issue with both books 1 & 2. So, if you want to know what happens next, you MUST read the next book. What if the series is 20 or more books long? Are there going to be issue after issue infinitum? This could've been a 10 overall because it IS well written, the plot is like a magnet where it sucks you in, the setting is fantastic, and the characters are likable (although there is a gazillion of them and sometimes I was confused as to who was who).
All in all, it is a good story, just...well, left me wondering what happens next.
All in all, it is a good story, just...well, left me wondering what happens next.
October 25, 2022
Brilliant sci fi adventure
The worldbuilding is dark but not hopeless. There is graphic violence and a little graphic sex (because Dali gets bored and in trouble). The non-humans are fascinating and often loveable, except a few that are truly monsters. The "good" characters, especially Dali's supporting cast, are a light in the darkness, as they continue to try to make their universe a better place. I love Dali; his kindness and humanity are a constant hopeful thread in this story of betrayal and evil. I read Peacemaker in KU but will buy it as soon as possible to reread often.
The worldbuilding is dark but not hopeless. There is graphic violence and a little graphic sex (because Dali gets bored and in trouble). The non-humans are fascinating and often loveable, except a few that are truly monsters. The "good" characters, especially Dali's supporting cast, are a light in the darkness, as they continue to try to make their universe a better place. I love Dali; his kindness and humanity are a constant hopeful thread in this story of betrayal and evil. I read Peacemaker in KU but will buy it as soon as possible to reread often.
April 3, 2020
That ending already has me desperate to read book three. This sequel to Dali grabbed me from page one as I willing followed them on their amazing journey. The top-notch world building and highly engaging characters had me reading well into the wee hours, I cannot recommend it highly enough.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley*
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley*
Read
March 4, 2020Didn’t grab me. No slight to the story; it just wasn’t for me.
DNF
DNF
Read
November 24, 2021
Trigger & Content Warnings
Slavery
Substance addiction
Cannibalism
Torture
Civil war & genocide mentioned
Slavery
Substance addiction
Cannibalism
Torture
Civil war & genocide mentioned
March 16, 2023
Like Dali (the first book in this trilogy), the world-building, race-creation, language usage, character development, and plot movement are phenomenal!
January 31, 2023
My full review can be found here
https://escapistbookcompany.com/2023/...
https://escapistbookcompany.com/2023/...
November 14, 2022
I loved the new book even better than the first one, I think the plot was a bit more exiting and complicated. Dali definitely becomes to be one of my favorite Sci-Fi characters. I like how their traumatic past and dealing with the inner demons portrayed: as part of their self and not as mere plot device. It makes Dali a complex and interesting character to follow. The ending left me wanting to read the next book, pity there will be at least a year of waiting. The only sad part is that the romance I wish for didn’t happened in this story. And that the romantic interest in this one was somewhat of a miss.
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