The story of Clanker Prince Alex and British midshipman, Deryn/Dylan, continues in this steampunk's version of World War One, with a focus on the competitive infiltration for the Ottoman Empire's alliance. The German side has introduced new weapons--the tesla cannon and the Orient Express--while the British Darwinist side has created new beasts like the behemoth and a strange little creature that takes a liking to Alex. As the characters are forced to hide out in Istanbul, they encounter revolutionaries who are wary of the new Sultan and even more danger is experienced. Really neat concepts and a fast pace makes this second installment a real treat.