Ancillary Mercy
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature, Science fiction |
| Founded | October 2015 |
| Founder | Ann Leckie |
| Products | Science fiction book |
Ancillary Mercy is a science fiction book authored by American writer Ann Leckie, released in October 2015. It serves as the final installment in Leckie's "Imperial Radch" space opera trilogy, succeeding Ancillary Justice (2013) and Ancillary Sword (2014).
Synopsis
While exploring the slums of Athoek Station, Fleet Captain Breq uncovers an ancillary from a vessel concealed beyond the Radch's jurisdiction for three millennia. At the same time, Translator Zeiat arrives as an envoy representing the alien Presger empire, accompanied by Breq's opponent—the conservative faction led by Anaander Mianaai, the ruler of an empire fractured by civil conflict.
Following Anaander’s takeover of Athoek Station and the public execution of its leaders, Breq collaborates with the station’s AI to disable Anaander’s fleet and safeguard AIs from her domination. Upon returning to Athoek Station with Zeiat, Breq challenges Anaander by declaring that AIs are independent, sentient beings separate from humans and thus protected under humanity’s treaty with the Presger. Confronted with these treaty breaches, Anaander withdraws.
Reception
The novel received acclaim from Kirkus Reviews, which highlighted its success in wrapping up the narrative arc while leaving room for future stories within the same universe, and praised its significant thematic message.
Awards
Ancillary Mercy earned the 2016 Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel and was shortlisted for both the 2015 Nebula Award for Best Novel and the 2016 Hugo Award for Best Novel.