Parity is the second book on the sci-fi series Spiral Worlds, written by Alexandra Almeida, which explores questions about reality and conscience, and continues developing the world(s) we got to know during Unanimity. And while truly the first book felt as an introduction to Spiral Worlds, it's certain that it allows Parity to have a better pacing and to throw us directly into the complexity of the story.

Almeida continues weaving a complex story mixing two timelines, showing the origins and the developments that happened over the original Spiral Worlds envisioned by Storm and Shadow, and how its growing influence over the real world is forcing them to take decisions that were against the vision they had; how its nature changed.
In the present day, Stella is struggling to take control of many of the aspects that made this new reality so attracting for many.

While the first book was slower and partly was mostly used to introduce us to the characters and their backstories, in this one we have a much bigger emotional weight, making use of all the previous foundations to continue developing them, exploring their struggles with their creations and their own suffering, while adding a layer of queer romance that complements well the story.

In the background, Almeida continues asking questions about conscience and the possibilities that virtual created realities might bring, while also portraying the challenges derived from those kinds of creations. The worldbuilding, while less explored in this book, is still quite a drawing point, remembering at some points to Westworld, and even including an excellent scene set in Africa.

Parity is a step-up in the series, but which wouldn't have been possible without Unanimity; if you like near futuristic sci-fi mixed with a diverse cast of characters, Spiral Worlds can be an excellent choice.