Outer Universe is the sequel to River in the Galaxy, both part of the Inner Universe series written by Natalie Kelda, a low stakes science fantasy adventure novel, following the travel of Merlon and the crew of the Lucia in order to investigate what happened when Merlon's parents disappeared in an expedition. 

We start directly after the ending of River in the Galaxy, with the Lucia's crew still grieving the losses suffered at the hands of the cannibals; at least they are a step closer to finding about Merlon's parents. The situation isn't easy for them, especially Merlon, who is now dealing with survivor's guilt, despite nobody could blame him for what happened during the travel.

Continuing with the line established in the previous book, we will be discovering unknown places in this Outer Universe, entering into contact with new civilizations and even new creatures; Kelda unleashes her imagination in this second installment on the series, including, for example, a pair of dragons who are defined by using neo-pronouns (a detail I think it should be highlighted).

While the pacing is still slow, typical of low stake books, I have to say that I think it has improved from River in the Galaxy, feeling this a book where more things are happening, compressing several adventures in the same novel; a fine structure that allows you to take a breath between encounters.

Outer Universe is an improvement over River in the Galaxy, which still caters to those readers looking for a lower stakes story, with Treasure Planet vibes, and which also feels as a little homage to The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; in definitive, a nice set of nautical adventures set in the space.