A compelling, pulse-pounding read. I really felt invested in all of the characters, even the ones that the narrative was unable to flesh out as much as the others (mainly Onfim). A good historical story makes you care about the fate of people that have been dead for centuries, and this certainly managed that. The aliens were compelling as well, with their complex family dynamic -- trying to show care for one another despite their vastly different perspectives on life and visions for Ran's future really struck a chord with me. The villain was legitimately chilling in its motives and actions (and its self-denial? Its refusal to acknowledge the fear that drove its monstrous conquest? Magnificent). And of course, the Doctor and Ruby were excellently realized. I love a good pair of besties in the TARDIS. My only complaint is that the conclusion was... somewhat underwhelming. It was a good ending, a nice 'hoist by their own petard' defeat that I love to see, but the execution was a little too quick and simple after everything it took to get there. On the whole, though, a thrilling read.