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.