This book had all the things I've come to enjoy from the IBP series: Hive tensions, Commander Karter, Atlan hero, an admirable, strong, courageous heroine, steamy smut, Commander Karter, incredible Hive action, dreamy, respectful, fantastical mates, Commander Karter putting a hoe or two in his place, valuing his female fighters once again, exalting Chloe, laughing at how ridiculously possessive and clowish these mates act, and then going full dad mode with little Dara in the ending. It's basically perfect.