This book is in part a sequel to Seraphim, it is set in the same world shortly after the other book ends. It can be read as a stand alone, but I would suggest reading Seraphim first as this book contains certain spoiler facts in it that would lessen the drama of the first book. I also believe the first book is better overall, as this one has a slower story. Not a bad book, but it could have been a lot better. It ends leading to the next book in a way that just leaves the story feeling unfinished.