'Seven Surrenders' (1947) by Ada Palmer

'Seven Surrenders' is the second book in her Terra Ignota series, following Too Like the Lightning. It continues the story set in a future Earth where the world is divided into philosophical factions that govern society, and where the line between politics, religion, and philosophy is often blurred.

In Seven Surrenders, the central conflict grows more intense as various factions and powerful figures vie for control, and the philosophical debates about the nature of society, governance, and human identity deepen. The protagonist, Mycroft Canner, continues his complex role in this highly stratified society, where his actions and decisions carry weight on a global scale. The book dives into the aftermath of the events from Too Like the Lightning, including the consequences of the assassination of a key figure and the shifting alliances that follow.

As the title suggests, the idea of surrender is central to the plot. The characters are forced to confront the necessity and the consequences of giving up control, whether in the form of power, morality, or personal agency. The book blends political intrigue, personal betrayal, and philosophical musings as Mycroft and other characters wrestle with their roles in the unfolding crisis.

Seven Surrenders explores themes of power, freedom, loyalty, and the ways in which individuals and societies are shaped by their beliefs. It’s a novel filled with dense philosophical dialogues, dramatic twists, and a deep exploration of how systems of power operate and change.

Overall, Seven Surrenders is a highly intellectual and intricate continuation of the Terra Ignota series, setting the stage for further philosophical and political revelations in the subsequent books.