Shon is a 16-year-old girl growing up in a world at war. In a climate reminiscent of Blade Runner, the government is fighting the “Eastern Bloc,” which has recruited mercenaries called The Hornet’s Nest to terrorize the country. Large humanoid mecha with high-powered machine guns (ŕ la Robotech) have turned neighborhoods in the capital into hamburger during the last assault. But Shon is not deterred. If the only way to escape poverty is to enlist in the army, so be it.Unfortunately, her older sister Elaine staunchly opposes her decision. Unfortunately, their family’s history of military service hides a dark side: Their parents died in a disheartening conspiracy that left Elaine bereft of patriotism. Should Shon stay in school or try to become an adult on her own terms?—Oliver Chin