When Sidra F. Sheikh released her debut science fiction novel, The Light Blue Jumper in 2017, she gave Pakistani literature something remarkable a genuinely original sci-fi story that balanced cosmic stakes with razor-sharp wit.

Seven years later, the sequel A Shade Darker proves this wasn`t just beginner`s luck but the emergence of a significant voice in speculative fiction.

Sidra`s debut introduced us to Zaaro Nian, one of contemporary Pakistani sci-fi`s memorable antiheroes a pale blue, perpetually anxious being whose watery eyes and bald head concealed an extraordinary power. Like a cosmic reinterpretation of Harry Potter`s Dobby, Zaaro`s accidental ability to teleport across time and space made him the rebellion`s unlikely linchpin against the tyrannical Inter-Planetary Forces (IPF).

The first novel was a blend of space opera grandeur with situational comedy, where bureaucratic absurdities often proved deadlier than laser battles. A Shade Darker picks up five years after the rebellion`s explosive climax from The Light Blue Jumper, trading revolutionary magnetism for the more complex challenge of governance.

As Sheikh explains: `It shows readers what happens after the big win. When the rebellion is successful what comes next?` This premise allows the sequel to explore thematic territory while retaining the franchise`s signature humour and political satire. Zaaro and his misfit crew return, now wrestling with political infighting, resource shortages and the IPF`s influence.

The sequel explores moral ambiguity, as the victory hasn`t magically solved every thing and our`heroes`must make inereasingly questionable decisions. Sidra does balance these heavier themes with the debut novel`s characteristic wit, ensuring the philosophical introspections never become awkward.

Where A Shade Darker shines is in its character development, Madam X, the Resistance`s no-nonsense leader, evolves from straightforward revolutionary to a pragmatic stateswoman. Her relationship with the Good Doctor (heading the wonderfully absurd Ministry of Misinformation) provides both comic relief and moving commentary on post-revolution disillusionment.

Zaaro remains the heart of the story, his involuntary jumps through spacetime now carrying greater emotional weight. Once purely comic relief, his appearances take on sombre whispers as he struggles with his legend versus what the reality bears for all.

Commander Lethalwulf (a double agent with his own agenda) enriches the narrative and the stakes while reprising his role in the sequel.

Sidra`s universe expands organically in the sequel. The Ulronians aliens whose marital customs include moustache-based inlaw bonding and surprise weddings exemplify her imaginative world building. These fun details don`t feel forced; they celebrate diversity in a galaxy trying to unite. The question remains: will the galactic characters ever come on the same page or will they continue with their oppressive ways? The IPF`s Orwellian rebranding as `Inter-Planetary Friendship` provides biting satire of authoritarian propaganda, while Central Command the coldly logical AI enforcer becomes a more formidable antagonist precisely because of its impersonal efficiency.

Sidra draws clear parallels to real-world issues of imperialism and polarisation without ever becoming preachy. The Central Command`s character design bears traces of Otto, the AI autopilot from WALL-E (2008), and H AL 9000 from 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968). Like Otto, it serves as an automated overseer, and like H AL it exhibits a chillingly calm presence. However, while these influences are apparent, Sidra`s writing ensures the character avoids being a mere imitation.

Some figures in the story may initially feel derivative shaped by iconic sci-fi themes but Sidra introduces enough originality to distinguish them. The Central Command`s role diverges from its predecessors in key ways. Unlike HAL, it lacks outright malice and, unlike Otto, it isn`t purely comedic.

Instead, it personifies a bureaucratic, systemic antagonist, reflecting modern anxieties about AI governance and its far-reaching impact and influence. Sidra`s world building further sets it apart; the story`s unique setting and rules prevent the AI from feeling like a recycled archetype which brings a fresh perspective in her writing.

While HAL and Otto represent distinct eras of AI in cinema one a cautionary symbol of cold logic, the other a satirical take on automation Sidra`s Central Command merges these ideas into something relatable. It`s a testament to her ability to draw from classics while developing a narrative that stands on its own. The result is a character that feels familiar yet innovative, paying homage to the past without being constrained by it.

Readers will identify nods to various sci-fi touchstones: the teleportation tech evokes Star Trek, certain political dynamics recall Battle star Galactica, and the absurdist humour links to Douglas Adams` The Hitchhiker`s Guide to the Galaxy.Yet Sidra synthesises these influences into something she can call her own.

The sequel particularly excels in its character work Salaar`s transformation from `dashing good guy` to morally compromised leader is handled with impressive detailing. Furthermore, the novel`s shifting perspectives jumping from Resistance leaders to double agents to ordinary citizens create a rich enigma of intergalactic politics.

Sidra smartly balances action sequences with character moments, knowing exactly when to undercut tension with humour. The climactic battle, featuring Zaaro`s near-mythical confrontation with IPF forces, delivers a spectacle and an emotional payoff.

Beyond its entertainment value, A Shade Darker represents an important milestone for Pakistani literature. It proves local authors can create sci-fi having social allegories that entertains and sends readers into introspection. Especially the novel`s exploration of post-revolution challenges does feel apt in our era of global political challenges.

A Shade Darker improves upon its predecessor in nearly every way deeper themes, richer character development, more ambitious world building while retaining the original novel`s trademark humour, satire, wit and heart. It cements Sidra as one of Pakistani literature`s most exciting voices and The Light Blue Jumper series as essential reading for sci-fi fans.

The writer is a columnist and an author of two science fiction novels: Divided Species and Player AI.