A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine

Synopsis:

Ambassador Mahit Dzmare arrives in the center of the multi-system Teixcalaanli Empire only to discover that her predecessor, the previous ambassador from their small but fiercely independent mining Station, has died. But no one will admit that his death wasn’t an accident―or that Mahit might be next to die, during a time of political instability in the highest echelons of the imperial court. Now, Mahit must discover who is behind the murder, rescue herself, and save her Station from Teixcalaan’s unceasing expansion―all while navigating an alien culture that is all too seductive, engaging in intrigues of her own, and hiding a deadly technological secret―one that might spell the end of her Station and her way of life―or rescue it from annihilation.

Review:

This was a very pleasant surprise, a complex, well-written book. Its no space operatic, expansive yarn, more a political, beautiful constructed journey. The scenes and environment are well described and believable. I only found this author by accident and was unhappy that this was her first book, although there is now a sequel (yet to be read by yours truly)!. Teixcalaan technology is mind blowing and I love the use of usual names of characters such as Six Direction. A structured society adds to the vein of suppression/fighting against over-whelming power, which the main character, Mahit finds herself enveloped in.

I enjoyed the way the book was written and how the author led you though the fabric of the technological society. I would recommend his book to anyone who is interested!