The hydrogen sonata

This was my second read, and I understood more of the plot this time. Not that it's all THAT complicated. This is an excellent book for those who are interested in delving into the thoughts and activities of the Culture's most powerful members, the Minds who constitute the sentient operating systems for their space ships. It's less depressing than some of Banks' earlier Culture stories. Points deducted for a relatively unsatisfying denouement for anyone who likes seeing bad guys get their comeuppance. Still an enjoyable romp through giant ships and small ones, the Gzilt "girdle city" is a fascinating structure to consider, plus various orbitals.