Raven Stratagem

I was less gripped by the sequal in the Machineries of Empire series, but the twist at the end really got me. The novel was good, with equally good twists and turns of plot, and interestingly intricate world building. I immensely enjoyed how the various bureaucratic factions of the empire were fleshed out, led by and employing real people who had not only jobs but things they did when they weren't at work. They live real lives, and some of them give up so much of it for their jobs. I'm excited for the next installment.

First half: whee we're back in this world how fun! But is anything really happening?
Second half: yes!

Now that it's over, I love how the author duped even the reader. I was so confused for part of the book, thinking I was reading the story of one character, then it turns out that it's from the point of view of another, and then another switch!