Throne of Jade

Throne of Jade continues the alternate history Temeraire series, set during the Napoleonic Wars in a world where dragons serve as military forces. This second installment follows Captain William Laurence and his dragon Temeraire as they embark on a journey from Britain to Imperial China. The narrative centers on diplomatic tensions between Britain and China over the ownership of Temeraire, a rare Celestial dragon. Chinese tradition dictates that Celestial dragons can only be companions to those of royal blood, creating conflict over Temeraire's partnership with the common-born Laurence. The story transports readers from European warfare to the complex world of Chinese dragon culture and imperial politics. The sea voyage to China serves as the backdrop for cultural clashes, political intrigue, and threats both human and draconic. The book explores themes of loyalty, cultural differences, and the nature of freedom versus duty. Through the lens of this alternative history, the story examines the contrast between Western and Eastern approaches to dragon-human relationships.

Readers note this sequel focuses more on politics and cultural interactions compared to the first book's military action. The slower pace and emphasis on Chinese customs creates a different tone. Positives: - Rich details about Chinese dragon culture and traditions - Development of Temeraire's character and background - Strong worldbuilding and historical research - Complex diplomatic relationships Negatives: - Slower pacing throughout the sea voyage sections - Less action/battles than the first book - Some find the political discussions tedious - Several readers mention the middle section drags Review Scores: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (55,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (800+ reviews) Reader comments highlight the "fascinating look at historical China" and "deeper emotional connection between Laurence and Temeraire." Critical reviews often mention "too much time spent at sea" and "missing the military aspects that made the first book exciting."

His Majesty's Dragon by Naomi Novik The first book in the Temeraire series presents the initial story of how Laurence and Temeraire meet during the Napoleonic Wars.

The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon A standalone fantasy novel that incorporates Eastern and Western dragon lore into a political narrative about kingdoms in conflict.

Uprooted by Naomi Novik Set in a fantasy world with strong Eastern European influences, this book features similar themes of culture clash and complex political relationships.

The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin The story involves a protagonist thrust into unfamiliar political and cultural territory while navigating relationships with powerful non-human entities.

Dragon Champion by E. E. Knight The first book in the Age of Fire series presents dragons as central characters within a complex political landscape of multiple species and cultures.

• Naomi Novik began writing the Temeraire series while working as a computer programmer, drawing inspiration from both the Aubrey-Maturin naval series and her love of dragons. • The Chinese celestial dragon breed featured in "Throne of Jade" was inspired by traditional Chinese mythology, where dragons are seen as wise, benevolent beings rather than the fearsome monsters of Western lore. • The book's portrayal of 19th-century Chinese-British relations draws from real historical tensions, including the Macartney Embassy of 1793, which attempted to establish better trade relations between the two nations. • The naval scenes in the book benefit from Novik's extensive research into historical sailing vessels and navigation techniques of the Napoleonic period. • The concept of dragons being used in warfare has historical precedents - Chinese military treatises like the Wujing Zongyao (1044 CE) actually included sections on the theoretical use of "dragon troops" in battle.