This novel is presented as the third cycle of Culture. Personally, I think it would rank well in the first reading. Indeed, the story is very dynamic and description of interfaces between Culture and peripheral worlds is rich, ideal for exploring the universe whimsical Banks. Like the main character, Iain Banks is a shapeshifter, a literary shapeshifter. Indeed, the construction and style of this novel is very different from the first two parts of the cycle. I highly recommend this book, especially to all those wishing to discover the I universe. Banks.
