Book Description
Ambassador Mahit Dzmare arrives in the center of the multi-system Teixcalaanli Empire only to discover that her predecessor, the previous ambassador from their small but fiercely independent mining Station, has died. But no one will admit that his death wasn’t an accident—or that Mahit might be next to die, during a time of political instability in the highest echelons of the imperial court.
Now, Mahit must discover who is behind the murder, rescue herself, and save her Station from Teixcalaan’s unceasing expansion—all while navigating an alien culture that is all too seductive, engaging in intrigues of her own, and hiding a deadly technological secret—one that might spell the end of her Station and her way of life—or rescue it from annihilation.
See Goodreads for more book reviews.
An Editor’s Book Review
Character Development
This books does focus on character development, but it’s set within a grander scope.
The main character is, at many times, a foil for discovering the culture and expectations of the Teixcalaanli Empire. Her reactions help define normalcy for the reader. She comes from a simpler place than the setting where the majority of the book takes place. Readers learn alongside her, which builds a sort of camaraderie.
The two primary characters do have strong and unique traits. They surprise you a few times, which is always fun. No one wants to read a stereotype.
Pacing
This book has meditative scenes set between very intense and unexpected action scenes. While the contemplative and learning nature of the main character would make you think the pace is slow, it’s not. The main character constantly has to adapt to new situations, which often present themselves when you least expect it.
Writing Style
The writing style is very precise. I suspect that the author tries to embody the different cultures in the tone and word choice. So, some of the writing will come across as pretentious or exasperating at times.
Lovers of action will likely be frustrated by the sheer amount of poetry. However, it’s good to keep in mind that the odd or pompous word choices are intentional. When you get frustrated by the prose, you are also supposed to be feeling the same way toward the culture.
If you liked this book, you may also like The Galaxy and Ground Within.