The world is still intricate and interesting, the characters are still colourful and surprising, but the plot took too long get to impactful choices. 85% meetings and tea. It felt like the writing of Ancillary Justice would have condensed that into a quarter as many pages, or at least interspersed some more action. Not calling for literal shoot 'em ups either, I'd also have been happy with multilayered negotiations, subterfuge, or emotional challenges. It was cool to see the protagonist in her element commanding a ship - I'd love to be on her crew - but it turned out she was too good at it.