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As in all of his works, McQuinn works on many levels in this book, from the trenches to the thrones. The central character, Captain Lannat, is a complex and compelling mixture of sensitive man and steel warrior. All of the characters are developed with care and skill. The distant future galactic empire depicted allows for full expression of both satire and serious commentary on real human history. And, of course, as in all of McQuinn's books, the combat sequences are outstanding. Most highly recommended.

Civilization is complex, as are the motives of the men and women who form it, and transform it. McQuinn has the depth of knowledge to know (1) wars are fought for various reasons, (2) the true reasons are rarely, if ever, disclosed, and (3) what are usually seen as Governments - near monolitihic entities, as usually described - are unstable coalitions, usually with aristocracies in fact if not in name. This book's depth is only exceeded by Dune, and the Foundation series; complex religions, well developed and remarkably complex plots, strong men and women, craven politicians, and those trained to rule, regardless. The eternal theme of the limits of governance and the skillful use of the mailed fist by the Elite is well drawn, and skillfully developed. The archetypal theme of the student defeating the teacher is very well developed near the book's conclusion, as are the themes of Boy becoming Man, and Soldier becoming Warrior, as Man and Warrior become Prince. The only military scifi that comes close in terms of dealing wisely with the complex relations discussed is Stirling's "The Domination" trilogy. This should be required reading at any position where you move into leadership responsibilities - from Parris Island to IBM. Students of the game "Civilization" might also find this very interesting... I can see a new type of that game coming from this. It's that good.