In "Drift Would," Cynthia Sax embarks on a journey to blend deep-space intrigue with passionate romance, a challenge which she meets with imaginative vigor. The novel, set in a richly built universe that borrows from both the science fiction and fantasy genres, delves into a love story that is as unpredictable as the cosmos in which it is set. The novel’s ability to hold one’s attention is a testament to Sax's skill in crafting narratives that are as emotionally engaging as they are visually vibrant.

The story follows the protagonist, Elara, a fleet navigator who has dedicated her life to exploring the unknown reaches of the galaxy. Her character is crafted with a compelling blend of strength and vulnerability, making her relatable and her struggles tangible. The conflict arises when she encounters Drift, a mysterious but charismatic exiled leader, who challenges her in ways that threaten to derail her mission and her beliefs about love and loyalty.

One of Sax’s significant strengths in "Drift Would" is her environment crafting. From the deck of a starship to the rugged landscapes of distant planets, the settings are described with a keen eye for detail that immerses readers in a world that is at once alien and familiar. The technical aspects of space travel are handled with a balance of credible science and imaginative fiction, catering to both hardcore sci-fi enthusiasts and those new to the genre.

Moreover, the romance at the heart of "Drift Would" does not follow the typical trajectory often seen in this hybrid genre. Instead, Sax opts for a slow burn, allowing the relationship between Elara and Drift to develop from mutual skepticism to a profound and complicated affection. This gradual build-up pays dividends, making their relationship’s highs and lows deeply affecting. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, enriched by snappy dialogue and poignant, introspective moments that reveal their multi-layered personalities.

However, Sax's ambitious blending of genres and themes is not without its pitfalls. At times, the narrative can feel overwhelmed by the technical descriptions of space machinery and alien biology, which, while fascinating, occasionally stall the pacing of the emotional plot. Furthermore, while Elara's internal conflicts are well articulated, some secondary characters and villains come off as underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices rather than fully realized participants in the story.

In terms of thematic depth, "Drift Would" explores issues such as the ethical dimensions of leadership, the responsibilities towards one’s crew and mission, and the meaning of sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds. Through Elara and Drift’s relationship, it also examines the possibility of love acting as both a disintegrating agent and a transformative force. These themes are woven into the fabric of the narrative and highlight Sax’s ability to probe philosophical questions without deviating from her plot's forward thrust.

Stylistically, Sax's prose complements the fast-paced, risky environment of space exploration. Her language is economical yet evocative, striking a balance between brisk pacing and mood-setting, allowing readers to absorb the enormity of the setting without getting bogged down in verbosity. The action sequences are particularly well executed, with clear, thrilling descriptions that make the heart race.

In conclusion, "Drift Would" by Cynthia Sax is a commendable addition to the space opera genre, distinguished by its ambitious narrative scope and engaging central romance. While it occasionally suffers from over-indulgence in technical details and underdeveloped secondary characters, these issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story. For fans of character-driven science fiction with a strong romantic subplot, "Drift Would" offers a universe worth exploring. Sax proves herself adept at handling both the vastness of space and the complexities of human (and alien) heart, crafting a tale that is as thoughtful as it is thrilling.