Sometimes I wonder why I continue with this series, given that (after the previous eleven installments) I always know exactly what I'm going to get: Bren Cameron taking a delicate diplomatic situation in hand, thinking and worrying about it a lot, engaging in extended conversations with the various players, perhaps dodging the occasional bullet, and then tying matters up in a relatively neat little package. A moment later I remember that I regard these characters, human and ateva alike, as something akin to old friends. Then, naturally, I go out and buy the latest volume.
Long-time fans of the series won't be disappointed with Ms. Cherryh's latest offering. In this go-round, Bren is dealing with a particularly obstreperous opponent: Machigi, the nominal leader of the Marid and one of Tabini's most dangerous enemies. For folks who haven't read the previous books, however, there is no point in starting with this volume, as it won't make any sense to you. The political maneuverings and considerations involved here are sufficient to give even a veteran reader of the series the occasional mild headache, as is usual.
Pick this one up and read it for Bren, Cajeiri, and the rest; it'll be a satisfying use of your time.