I liked it a lot, indeed. It introduces a first contact scenario that fits in smoothly with the overarching themes of cultural identity and imperialism, taking a lot of time to make sure all the pieces are in place for the big moral dilemma at the center of the narrative. I especially enjoyed the small element of space horror.

While the plot points and reveals aren't too unexpected and it has the air of a "classic sf story", it's the interaction between Teixcalaanli and Stationer culture that makes the novel just as unique and memorable as the first one. I mean, don't tell me you haven't wondered what flower you'd be named after. (I asked my father and I'd probably be Eight Bluebell.)

If there's one thing I didn't like it's that the early chapters do little to help me remember what happened in the first book. I mean, I read it and I loved it, but that was two years and 100 books ago and I had no idea what was going on anymore. So if you pick this up, maybe just skim through the predecessor again and make sure you know who's who, especially on Lsel Station.