Throne of Jade

The second book in the Temeraire series brings us to China, with an excellent juxtaposition of Chinese culture and custom to the unhappy state of affairs in England. Lawrence is able to develop more as a character, and we finally start to see Temeraire himself have a stronger personality. Excellent subtle philosophy and political analysis at work behind the scenes, and far better action-sequences overall than what were presented in the first book. If the central battle is somewhat over-the-top, it is to be at least forgiven for its sense of unending ruthlessness.

The combat scenes have certainly grabbed my interest more in this excellent sequel - either the author's pulled her finger out or I've acclimatised myself to their nature.

The ethos of ethics continues - the Chinese angle is a brilliant one, and the contrasts between the handling of dragons there is an excellent way to plough through pages. it's quite frequently the case that a series declines as it goes - although we're only at the second, I see no sign of that what soever. Couldn't put it down.