A Star in Shadow is a novel set in the dark sci-fi and cyberpunk ChromaSpyke universe by Alexander Mharcei. It's book two in The Broken Star Sequence series.
The Broken Star sequence continues.
This time, the system is hunting its own.
Atria is an Arbiter, a corporate-sponsored enforcer tasked with hunting insurgents in the ruins of Albuquerque. She is elite, disciplined, and trusted. When an operation collapses, leaving her without a team and without answers, the failure follows her back up the chain of command.
The reprimand is swift and absolute. Her sponsors waver. Her authority is in question. Two soldiers are assigned to keep her in place, not to assist her. The message is clear: failure will not be tolerated, and protection within the system is conditional.
Refusing to be grounded, Atria disobeys orders and returns planetside, following the last trace of a target she was never meant to lose. The trail leads through abandoned black sites, compromised surveillance operations, and into Tsuyomei, a city untouched by bombardment and ruled by corporate syndicates that know exactly who she is and why she does not belong.
As Atria pushes deeper, she begins to understand the truth behind her failure. Arbiters are not just enforcers. They are assets. Test subjects. Their memories are recorded, copied, and redeployed. Identity is preserved only as long as it remains useful.
A Star in Shadow is a cold, brutal cyberpunk thriller about institutional betrayal, memory as property, and survival through disobedience. Where A Star Too Far explored resistance from the streets, this sequel reveals what happens when a system turns inward and consumes its own.
Return & Refund Policy
Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery for eligible items in original condition and packaging, with proof of purchase. Customers are responsible for return shipping costs, and no restocking fee applies to eligible returns. Digital products, signed items, handmade items, collector’s editions, limited releases, custom items, sale items, and gift cards cannot be returned. If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, contact us right away and we’ll help resolve it. Read the full Return & Refund Policy for complete details.
Most physical orders ship within one week, often in 1–3 business days. Digital products are delivered electronically after checkout on the confirmation screen and by email, with up to 3 download attempts per item. International shipping is available to select countries, and additional customs or destination-country fees may apply. Tracking details are provided once physical orders ship. Read the full Shipping Policy for complete details.
Enjoy exclusive releases and early access when you shop directly with Arkhelian—supporting an independent studio. Or, if you prefer, find our titles worldwide on Amazon, Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, Google Play, and Barnes & Noble.