A thoroughly fascinating read that feels - some parts - more alien than the Ancillary trilogy. The second perspective narration makes sense and when you finally put all the facts together it's very satisfying. The setting is painted in broad strokes, but the concepts are both original and believable. Really the only thing to regret is the limited length and the lack of potential sequels to the story - though there's a little scope for more stories set in the world of the Raven Tower.