This is the third book set in a world struggling to rebuild after a disaster. That being said it is very much a stand alone story and you do not need to read any of the other books that are set in this world to understand everything that happens in this book. Of course the book is finely crafted and you are most likely going to have the same response I had upon finishing, namely "MORE". This particular story I would frame as a conspiracy thriller, the main characters are trying their best to survive while figuring out who is trying to kill them and why. I'm not going to reveal any spoilers as the author has done a tremendous job with twists, turns, feints, jabs and a misdirect or two. The setting specific flavorings are nice, giving the book and world enough of a difference from ours to let it stand out without being overpowering. A very enjoyable read, well worth the time spent.