Victory of Eagles (Temeraire)
ByNaomi Novik
| ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | |
| ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | |
| ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ | |
| ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ | |
| ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
Looking forVictory of Eagles (Temeraire) in PDF?
Check out Scribid.com
Audiobook
Check out Audiobooks.com
Readers` Reviews
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
nia ch
I am loving this book! I am only halfway through at this point, but am loving this segment of the saga even more than the past ones. The writing of Naomi Novik is so creative and descriptive, it almost makes you feel that you are there.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
matthew woolsey
One of the best historical fantasy series to show up in recent years has been Naomi Novik's Temeraire. Full of historical details in a world that is very close to our own, set in a world where dragons are quite real, and captained by crews of humans, serve as part of aerial corps, fighting in wars.
The setting is unusual as well -- the Napoleonic Wars, and with the fifth novel and its ominous title, Victory of Eagles things are not looking too good for the British. In an appalling display of stupidity by the Admiralty, Temeraire and Laurence, his captain, have been separated after the events of the previous novel. Laurence is aboard a ship, locked up in a brig, and the threat of execution follows him everywhere. He knows that if he cooperates, that Temeraire will not be harmed, and so does his best.
And his beloved Temeraire? The Celestial dragon is off in the remote mountains of Wales, condemned to the breeding grounds while a perfectly good war is raging on. Instead he's stuck in a remote valley, with nothing but a pokey cave to live in, no books, and even though there's plenty to eat, all that there is to do is sleep and ahem, make an egg with a willing dragon.
Needless to say, Temeraire is less than pleased about the situation. And his new neighbors are not that interesting either, especially a Regal Copper that has decided that Temeraire's cave would make a very nice home for himself. And there's Gentius an ancient Longwing who is pleased to talk to Temeraire. Most of all, there are Temeraire's own thoughts, and a chance to look at the world through the dragon's eyes.
When word comes that Laurence's ship has been sunk by the French, Temeraire decides that the time has come to break free of all of the stuffy rules. After all, the British have broken their word, and he feels that there's nothing to hold him back. So in a daring maneuver, he rounds up the dragons in the breeding ground, and he will lead them into battle against Napoleon.
And Napoleon? The French emperor is on the march again, this time crossing the Channel and setting his sights on capturing London...
I won't reveal much more here, as so not to reveal any spoilers, except that there are several new characters here, as well as quite a few of the earlier ones make a return. Most interesting is the Iron Duke himself, Wellington, and even a glimpse of poor King George III. Iskierka and Granby have a prominent role, and we see the rather harried Jane Roland having to cope with military men who have not a clue about how dragons can be used in battle. The action is breakneck, along with the pacing -- very rarely does the story slow down.
One aspect that I have enjoyed very much is watching Temeraire?s evolution in the series, as he matures and grows in his abilities to both deal with people, and his own sense of justice and morality. There are times when you can feel his frustration with dealing with humans, or the confusion of why don?t they get it? It?s one aspect of Novik?s creation that she is able to breathe in new life to the rather hackneyed use of dragons. Here they are personalities, and sentient beings, with ambitions, thoughts, and emotions of their own, and sometimes they don?t always mesh neatly with those of humans.
As with the previous novels, this is definitely part of a series. For someone who wants to start reading here, I recommend that you don't -- there is so much in here that relies on the earlier novels, that it would be nearly impossible to understand the current story without going back and reading the first four books.
One thing that I wish the series had was some kind of directory to keep all of the various types of dragons straight. While the first book had some drawings and a few details, there's very little here to help visualize many of the creatures, and create a mental picture of the action and details. It's one oversight that I hope will be taken care of either in a separate volume or in future books. This is the only real disgruntlement that I've had with the series so far.
A warning however -- don't try to read this one late at night. The odds will be that you'll be up still at dawn turning pages and eagerly seeing what happens next. The ending, as with before, is a bit of a cliffhanger, and I hope is a sign that there will be more to come.
Four and a half stars, rounded up to five. Recommended.
The setting is unusual as well -- the Napoleonic Wars, and with the fifth novel and its ominous title, Victory of Eagles things are not looking too good for the British. In an appalling display of stupidity by the Admiralty, Temeraire and Laurence, his captain, have been separated after the events of the previous novel. Laurence is aboard a ship, locked up in a brig, and the threat of execution follows him everywhere. He knows that if he cooperates, that Temeraire will not be harmed, and so does his best.
And his beloved Temeraire? The Celestial dragon is off in the remote mountains of Wales, condemned to the breeding grounds while a perfectly good war is raging on. Instead he's stuck in a remote valley, with nothing but a pokey cave to live in, no books, and even though there's plenty to eat, all that there is to do is sleep and ahem, make an egg with a willing dragon.
Needless to say, Temeraire is less than pleased about the situation. And his new neighbors are not that interesting either, especially a Regal Copper that has decided that Temeraire's cave would make a very nice home for himself. And there's Gentius an ancient Longwing who is pleased to talk to Temeraire. Most of all, there are Temeraire's own thoughts, and a chance to look at the world through the dragon's eyes.
When word comes that Laurence's ship has been sunk by the French, Temeraire decides that the time has come to break free of all of the stuffy rules. After all, the British have broken their word, and he feels that there's nothing to hold him back. So in a daring maneuver, he rounds up the dragons in the breeding ground, and he will lead them into battle against Napoleon.
And Napoleon? The French emperor is on the march again, this time crossing the Channel and setting his sights on capturing London...
I won't reveal much more here, as so not to reveal any spoilers, except that there are several new characters here, as well as quite a few of the earlier ones make a return. Most interesting is the Iron Duke himself, Wellington, and even a glimpse of poor King George III. Iskierka and Granby have a prominent role, and we see the rather harried Jane Roland having to cope with military men who have not a clue about how dragons can be used in battle. The action is breakneck, along with the pacing -- very rarely does the story slow down.
One aspect that I have enjoyed very much is watching Temeraire?s evolution in the series, as he matures and grows in his abilities to both deal with people, and his own sense of justice and morality. There are times when you can feel his frustration with dealing with humans, or the confusion of why don?t they get it? It?s one aspect of Novik?s creation that she is able to breathe in new life to the rather hackneyed use of dragons. Here they are personalities, and sentient beings, with ambitions, thoughts, and emotions of their own, and sometimes they don?t always mesh neatly with those of humans.
As with the previous novels, this is definitely part of a series. For someone who wants to start reading here, I recommend that you don't -- there is so much in here that relies on the earlier novels, that it would be nearly impossible to understand the current story without going back and reading the first four books.
One thing that I wish the series had was some kind of directory to keep all of the various types of dragons straight. While the first book had some drawings and a few details, there's very little here to help visualize many of the creatures, and create a mental picture of the action and details. It's one oversight that I hope will be taken care of either in a separate volume or in future books. This is the only real disgruntlement that I've had with the series so far.
A warning however -- don't try to read this one late at night. The odds will be that you'll be up still at dawn turning pages and eagerly seeing what happens next. The ending, as with before, is a bit of a cliffhanger, and I hope is a sign that there will be more to come.
Four and a half stars, rounded up to five. Recommended.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
make me believe
First, i'd like to say that i read this book cover to cover this morning, in one sitting. It's not terribly short, but it is a fairly easy read, and with the pacing so fast i just couldn't justify a break.
I noticed around page 150, though, that despite the constant action and constant motion, not much was happening. In fact, the only real plot movement took place in the last 50 pages or so. That's part of why i docked a star from this latest installment in a series i love dearly.
The rest of the star comes from the fact that Ms. Novik hasn't quite recovered the strength of voice she had in the first few books. Sure, Laurence is less of a stiff British naval officer than he used to be, but at times he's become so much like the other aviators that one forgets he ever was anything else. And at times Temeraire sounds like all of the other dragons. It's better than the mush from book 3, but still lacks the crispness of books 1 and 2.
Last, i suspected at the end (though 'sudden stopping point' would be a better description) of Empire of Ivory how Victory of Eagles would conclude, and was sorely disappointed to be right.
Despite all of these complaints, it's a great book in a fantastic series and i highly recommend anyone go pick up His Majesty's Dragon and get started.
I noticed around page 150, though, that despite the constant action and constant motion, not much was happening. In fact, the only real plot movement took place in the last 50 pages or so. That's part of why i docked a star from this latest installment in a series i love dearly.
The rest of the star comes from the fact that Ms. Novik hasn't quite recovered the strength of voice she had in the first few books. Sure, Laurence is less of a stiff British naval officer than he used to be, but at times he's become so much like the other aviators that one forgets he ever was anything else. And at times Temeraire sounds like all of the other dragons. It's better than the mush from book 3, but still lacks the crispness of books 1 and 2.
Last, i suspected at the end (though 'sudden stopping point' would be a better description) of Empire of Ivory how Victory of Eagles would conclude, and was sorely disappointed to be right.
Despite all of these complaints, it's a great book in a fantastic series and i highly recommend anyone go pick up His Majesty's Dragon and get started.
The Last Days of Magic: A Novel :: His Majesty's Dragon (Temeraire, Book 1) :: Black Powder War (Temeraire, Book 3) :: The Goblin Emperor :: Spinning Silver: A Novel
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
talar
While this book is a great page turner that I read in a few hours, I did not feel it was nearly as good as the first couple of books. As the series has gone on, I find that Ms. Novik's alternate history and the motivations of the characters become less and less believable. Fredtownward's review of Empire of Ivory (Temeraire, Book 4) covers my thoughts very well.
I also find myself caring a lot less about the characters. You get some interesting insights into Temeraire's thoughts, and the scenes of dragons discussing things among themselves are very enjoyable. However, there are too many new and minor characters and not enough time is spent on characters introduced in earlier books.
Finally, unlike the noble Britain of Patrick O'Brian's or Bernard Cornwall's worlds standing against the tyrant Napoleon, the British in Temeraire's world don't seem worthy of devotion or loyalty. I am having a hard time understanding why the main characters - particularly the dragons - would feel such patriotism. It is very interesting that Ms. Novik has added enough complexity to her world that you often wonder while reading, "would it really be so bad if Napoleon won?" But, in the last couple of books I've actually been rooting for him.
I'll give this series one more book to get out of it's slump, but then I'm done.
I also find myself caring a lot less about the characters. You get some interesting insights into Temeraire's thoughts, and the scenes of dragons discussing things among themselves are very enjoyable. However, there are too many new and minor characters and not enough time is spent on characters introduced in earlier books.
Finally, unlike the noble Britain of Patrick O'Brian's or Bernard Cornwall's worlds standing against the tyrant Napoleon, the British in Temeraire's world don't seem worthy of devotion or loyalty. I am having a hard time understanding why the main characters - particularly the dragons - would feel such patriotism. It is very interesting that Ms. Novik has added enough complexity to her world that you often wonder while reading, "would it really be so bad if Napoleon won?" But, in the last couple of books I've actually been rooting for him.
I'll give this series one more book to get out of it's slump, but then I'm done.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
alphie
Here's another lovely installment in the Temeraire series! Following on the themes of books 3 and 4, Temeraire's awareness of social justice and civic responsibility grows. Things start dire and remain rather grim, with an entire emotional arc for Lawrence that is implied more than explored. Still, it works. There's fewer aerial battles in this book than in previous ones, and more political intrigue. I'm loving seeing Temeraire become an inadvertent (and reluctant) spokesperson for dragon rights.
I still maintain that Tharkay is the true hero of this story. Although he's so wonderful, he is in danger of becoming a plot device more than an autonomous character in his own right. Iskierka is beyond annoying, as she's meant to be. So the ending of this story leads me to believe I will both love and hate the next book. Which takes places in....Australia! That should be interesting, and I'm curious to see how Novik handles Australian dragons- I've loved her multi-dragon-cultural approach so far.
In all, Lawrence is a man adrift by the end of the book. He's had a brush with piracy (sanctioned) in a way, and he's banished from England and the service. That means no more Jane Roland, and no more of the dragons we've come to love, both the ones in the Aerial Corps and the rogue/retired/feral ones that Temeraire has inspired and educated. I'm also looking forward to a new enemy, as the threat of Napolean and the (pretty darn awesome) power of Lien is a bit cold now.
As always, I recommend this series for fans of fantasy and historic fiction...but start with book 1!
I still maintain that Tharkay is the true hero of this story. Although he's so wonderful, he is in danger of becoming a plot device more than an autonomous character in his own right. Iskierka is beyond annoying, as she's meant to be. So the ending of this story leads me to believe I will both love and hate the next book. Which takes places in....Australia! That should be interesting, and I'm curious to see how Novik handles Australian dragons- I've loved her multi-dragon-cultural approach so far.
In all, Lawrence is a man adrift by the end of the book. He's had a brush with piracy (sanctioned) in a way, and he's banished from England and the service. That means no more Jane Roland, and no more of the dragons we've come to love, both the ones in the Aerial Corps and the rogue/retired/feral ones that Temeraire has inspired and educated. I'm also looking forward to a new enemy, as the threat of Napolean and the (pretty darn awesome) power of Lien is a bit cold now.
As always, I recommend this series for fans of fantasy and historic fiction...but start with book 1!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
tianne shaw
Fifth in the Temeraire historical military science fiction series and revolving around a Celestial dragon and his captain.
My Take
I love Victory of Eagles, and I hate it. I love that Temeraire forms up his own fighting unit — prison break!! — and confounds the English. That colonel business cracked me up. And Temeraire gets one of his dearest wishes, lol. He gets his chance to incorporate some of what he learned in China and makes a number of farmers happy.
It's a matter of proving that dragons and women are as capable as men and deserving of respect. Temeraire manages some of his pet equalities…yay!…and it's a treat to read of this, for it is embarrassing how humans treat the dragons. Like cattle with no intelligence, no feelings. And then Temeraire rips 'em a new one with some mathematical problem or a bit of philosophy.
Yep, he's got 'em over a barrel. He manages to talk a wide range of dragons into helping him. UNharnessed, if you please. And it's adorable how the unit has changed what with Temeraire in command and both humans and dragons attending planning sessions.
Gotta give Napoleon credit for respecting dragons. The English are doing their usual, thinking their way is the only way of doing things. And anyone not English — and a male human — is obviously inferior. I mean, why wouldn't one accept that dragons have a better idea as to their capabilities (and not those generals who haven't the slightest clue how to best use them) and allow them to do their own strategizing? They certainly have an excellent example with the brilliant colonel out in the countryside! As for the women captains, lol, Jane certainly has no time for their opinions as to a woman's intellect or capability, lol. She really tore into and ignored them, refusing to accept the men's blusterings.
It's also patriotism. Oh, not patriotism to a government that slips and slides around on its promises and has no honor, but patriotism to one's country. Some of that "honor" is the lack of real justice in nineteenth century England and how Laurence's mates were treated right after Laurence came back from France.
Laurence's meeting up with Temeraire is too funny. Although, it becomes progressively less funny as Temeraire begins to understand and worry about his captain. Novik very nicely incorporates a dragon perspective on treasure and appearances with Temeraire learning the meaning of chain of command and what responsibility it incurs. All part of Novik's character arc for him, as Temeraire comes to understand more the ramifications of Laurence's committing treason ( Empire of Ivory , 4).
It's that dual third-person point-of-view that allows us into Temeraire's and Laurence's thoughts. Temeraire's confusion as to why Laurence is so unhappy when he has every reason to be relieved. Laurence's shame for what he must do with no real hope.
On a side note, I'm not sure how the whole gifting thing came up at the breeding pens. Novik didn't lead up to it at all. It was just there.
The Story
Pen Y Fan is part of Temeraire's "parole". If he behaves, Laurence won't be hung. It's not a promising start, especially when the "neighborhood bully" comes to call.
Even with Laurence sprung from prison, it becomes worse now that Napoleon has invaded England.
Yet worse are the guerrilla attacks incorporating despicable tactics. Ones that shame Laurence to the bone, and yet engenders a respect in the villages and towns of the countryside.
The Characters
Temeraire is a black Celestial dragon with a divine wind. William Laurence is his captain. Gong Su is the Chinese cook who knows just how Temeraire likes his food. Emily Roland, Jane's daughter, has been a runner. Keynes and Dorset are surgeons. Blythe is the armorer. Fellowes and Allen reappear. Lord Allendale is Laurence's disapproving and now ill father. Jones and Peyle are footmen and Martha is one of the maids on the family estate, Wollaton Hall. George is Laurence's oldest brother.
All Laurence's friends have been taken over the coals: Berkeley, Chenery, Jane Roland, Little, and Sutton who rides Messoria, a Yellow Reaper. Worse, First Lieutenant Ferris has been broken.
Captain Tharkay is half-British, half-Nepalese, with his fingers in more pies. He's the one who can speak the ferals' language. Arkady is the leader of the ferals. Gherni and Wringe are some of the ferals. Dunne and Wickley had been Temeraire's wingmen but now captain ferals, as they have a a gift for languages.
Admiral Jane Roland had been Laurence's lover; she rides Excidium. Frette is Jane's aide-de-camp. Captain Berkley rides Maximus. He and Lily have promised Temeraire that they'll not let the government hang Laurence. Captain Hollin, Laurence's former harness-master, now rides Elsie. Captain St. Germain rides Mortiferus; she was formerly assigned to Gibraltar. Celeritas had been the dragon in charge of training in Scotland. Rightley. Nitidus, a Pascal's Blue whose rider is Captain Warren.
Captain Granby is riding the quixotic Iskierka, a Turkish fire-breather with very decided views on what she will and will not do ( Black Powder War , 3). Sipho and Demane are African boys Laurence brought back in Empire of Ivory and are part of Iskierka's crew.
Pen Y Fan is…
…the breeding grounds in Scotland where dragons are sentenc…, er, sent. Mr. Lloyd is the grounds-master. The bossy Perscitia is a cross-breed of a Malachite Reaper and a Pascal's Blue who gave up her captain. She doesn't like fighting, but adores mathematics. Moncey is a Winchester courier; he'd managed to get away from the Corps. Laculla. Requiescat is a bullying Regal Copper. Gentius is an ancient Longwing (Captain Haulding had been the useless officer whose absence made it possible for his real female captain to go up to a real rank). Reedly is a mongrel half-Winchester. Majestatis tries to be fair. Minnow is a feral. Ballista and Armatius are Chequered Nettles. Chalcedony is a Yellow Reaper. Rictus is a Grey Copper. Velocitas, Palliatia, Dirigion, Ventiosa, and Gladius are yet more dragons. Other dragons in the unit include Anglewings.
The Lords of the Admiralty
The nasty Lord Mulgrave is the First Lord. Jane Roland wasn't appointed admiral for Dover. That honor went to the incompetent Admiral Sanderson who rides a Parnassian, Annimosia. Admiral Collingwood.
Admiral Horatio Nelson captains Victory , the lead ship with the Minotaur , the Prince of Wales , the Neptune , the Superb , and nine more ships-of-the-line.
HMS Goliath is…
…where Laurence is imprisoned. Captain Puget, Lieutenant Frye, and Midshipman Meed are all that's left.
General Wellesley. Rowley is one of his aides. General Sir Hew Dalrymple is in command of the military forces. General Burrard will take the left flank. Sergeant Goren. In a later battle, Colonels Bree and Featherstone take the center. Colonel Rethlow will back them with artillery. Generals Paget and Ollen get their orders.
The Ministry
Perceval is Prime Minister. Lords Bathurst and Liverpool are the new Foreign Secretary and Secretary of War. Lord Eldon is Lord Chancellor. Giles is with the Ministry. And Temeraire wants a word.
Some of the officers are grateful for Laurence's actions in Empire of Ivory , including Captain Hesterfield, Von Pfeil, Captain Dyhern, Captain Prewitt, Captain Latour, Gounod, and Reynolds.
Others despise him: Captain Geoffrey Windle, Captain Miller rides Devastatio in courier service, Maclaine, and Martin who is now part of Orchestia's crew (an Anglewing captained by Fenter) and very much against Laurence and Temeraire.
Captain Tom Riley had been a friend of Laurence's and captain of the HMS Allegiance, a dragon transport. Now he's married to Captain Catherine Harcourt who rides Lily ( Empire of Ivory ). They have a son. Poor guy. He had no notion babies must be fed every two hours, and Catherine has gone off to the coast for battle. Lord Purbeck is first lieutenant and despises Laurence.
The three eggs are a Yellow Reaper, a cross between a Chequered Nettle and a Parnassian, and Arkady and Wringe's egg.
Bertram Woolvey is the man who married Laurence's love, Edith Galman. They have a son, James. Sutton-Leeds is Woolvey's drunk friend. I think Gavins is Lord Holland's man. Darby (a.k.a., Janus) is one of Holland's stablehands. Lady Hamilton is also still in occupied London.
The Reverend Daniel Salcombe is the quite insulting know-it-all. Georgie is a lad from Twickenham.
The French
I think the emperor, Napoleon, rides Accendare, a Flamme-de-Gloire. Lung Tien Lien is the white Celestial who fled China in Throne of Jade , 2, and now advises Napoleon. Marshals Lefèbvre, Murat, and Davout are in England. Talleyrand is here for a peace conference; Liberté is the dragon he's riding.
Dragons in l'Armée de l'Air include:
Grand Chevaliers are the largest of the French heavyweights; Fleur-de-Nuits; Pêcheur-Rayés; Papillon Noirs; Roi-de-Vitesses; Pou-de-Ciels; Garde-de-Lyons; Honneur-d'Ors; Chanson-de-Guerres; Defendeur-Braves; and, Chasseur-Vocifères.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a range of yellows and browns with the dark brown roiling seas and the two battling ships, the flare of the cannons bright against all that dark. The background gradually lightens to a sunny yellow at the top. The author's name is at the top in a shadowed deep orange while the title is bigger and below it in a deep brown. Both are embossed. Just below center is a black dragon, hovering in mid-air, holding a banner with the series information in the same yellow.
The title is a win, a Victory of Eagles.
My Take
I love Victory of Eagles, and I hate it. I love that Temeraire forms up his own fighting unit — prison break!! — and confounds the English. That colonel business cracked me up. And Temeraire gets one of his dearest wishes, lol. He gets his chance to incorporate some of what he learned in China and makes a number of farmers happy.
It's a matter of proving that dragons and women are as capable as men and deserving of respect. Temeraire manages some of his pet equalities…yay!…and it's a treat to read of this, for it is embarrassing how humans treat the dragons. Like cattle with no intelligence, no feelings. And then Temeraire rips 'em a new one with some mathematical problem or a bit of philosophy.
Yep, he's got 'em over a barrel. He manages to talk a wide range of dragons into helping him. UNharnessed, if you please. And it's adorable how the unit has changed what with Temeraire in command and both humans and dragons attending planning sessions.
Gotta give Napoleon credit for respecting dragons. The English are doing their usual, thinking their way is the only way of doing things. And anyone not English — and a male human — is obviously inferior. I mean, why wouldn't one accept that dragons have a better idea as to their capabilities (and not those generals who haven't the slightest clue how to best use them) and allow them to do their own strategizing? They certainly have an excellent example with the brilliant colonel out in the countryside! As for the women captains, lol, Jane certainly has no time for their opinions as to a woman's intellect or capability, lol. She really tore into and ignored them, refusing to accept the men's blusterings.
It's also patriotism. Oh, not patriotism to a government that slips and slides around on its promises and has no honor, but patriotism to one's country. Some of that "honor" is the lack of real justice in nineteenth century England and how Laurence's mates were treated right after Laurence came back from France.
Laurence's meeting up with Temeraire is too funny. Although, it becomes progressively less funny as Temeraire begins to understand and worry about his captain. Novik very nicely incorporates a dragon perspective on treasure and appearances with Temeraire learning the meaning of chain of command and what responsibility it incurs. All part of Novik's character arc for him, as Temeraire comes to understand more the ramifications of Laurence's committing treason ( Empire of Ivory , 4).
It's that dual third-person point-of-view that allows us into Temeraire's and Laurence's thoughts. Temeraire's confusion as to why Laurence is so unhappy when he has every reason to be relieved. Laurence's shame for what he must do with no real hope.
On a side note, I'm not sure how the whole gifting thing came up at the breeding pens. Novik didn't lead up to it at all. It was just there.
The Story
Pen Y Fan is part of Temeraire's "parole". If he behaves, Laurence won't be hung. It's not a promising start, especially when the "neighborhood bully" comes to call.
Even with Laurence sprung from prison, it becomes worse now that Napoleon has invaded England.
Yet worse are the guerrilla attacks incorporating despicable tactics. Ones that shame Laurence to the bone, and yet engenders a respect in the villages and towns of the countryside.
The Characters
Temeraire is a black Celestial dragon with a divine wind. William Laurence is his captain. Gong Su is the Chinese cook who knows just how Temeraire likes his food. Emily Roland, Jane's daughter, has been a runner. Keynes and Dorset are surgeons. Blythe is the armorer. Fellowes and Allen reappear. Lord Allendale is Laurence's disapproving and now ill father. Jones and Peyle are footmen and Martha is one of the maids on the family estate, Wollaton Hall. George is Laurence's oldest brother.
All Laurence's friends have been taken over the coals: Berkeley, Chenery, Jane Roland, Little, and Sutton who rides Messoria, a Yellow Reaper. Worse, First Lieutenant Ferris has been broken.
Captain Tharkay is half-British, half-Nepalese, with his fingers in more pies. He's the one who can speak the ferals' language. Arkady is the leader of the ferals. Gherni and Wringe are some of the ferals. Dunne and Wickley had been Temeraire's wingmen but now captain ferals, as they have a a gift for languages.
Admiral Jane Roland had been Laurence's lover; she rides Excidium. Frette is Jane's aide-de-camp. Captain Berkley rides Maximus. He and Lily have promised Temeraire that they'll not let the government hang Laurence. Captain Hollin, Laurence's former harness-master, now rides Elsie. Captain St. Germain rides Mortiferus; she was formerly assigned to Gibraltar. Celeritas had been the dragon in charge of training in Scotland. Rightley. Nitidus, a Pascal's Blue whose rider is Captain Warren.
Captain Granby is riding the quixotic Iskierka, a Turkish fire-breather with very decided views on what she will and will not do ( Black Powder War , 3). Sipho and Demane are African boys Laurence brought back in Empire of Ivory and are part of Iskierka's crew.
Pen Y Fan is…
…the breeding grounds in Scotland where dragons are sentenc…, er, sent. Mr. Lloyd is the grounds-master. The bossy Perscitia is a cross-breed of a Malachite Reaper and a Pascal's Blue who gave up her captain. She doesn't like fighting, but adores mathematics. Moncey is a Winchester courier; he'd managed to get away from the Corps. Laculla. Requiescat is a bullying Regal Copper. Gentius is an ancient Longwing (Captain Haulding had been the useless officer whose absence made it possible for his real female captain to go up to a real rank). Reedly is a mongrel half-Winchester. Majestatis tries to be fair. Minnow is a feral. Ballista and Armatius are Chequered Nettles. Chalcedony is a Yellow Reaper. Rictus is a Grey Copper. Velocitas, Palliatia, Dirigion, Ventiosa, and Gladius are yet more dragons. Other dragons in the unit include Anglewings.
The Lords of the Admiralty
The nasty Lord Mulgrave is the First Lord. Jane Roland wasn't appointed admiral for Dover. That honor went to the incompetent Admiral Sanderson who rides a Parnassian, Annimosia. Admiral Collingwood.
Admiral Horatio Nelson captains Victory , the lead ship with the Minotaur , the Prince of Wales , the Neptune , the Superb , and nine more ships-of-the-line.
HMS Goliath is…
…where Laurence is imprisoned. Captain Puget, Lieutenant Frye, and Midshipman Meed are all that's left.
General Wellesley. Rowley is one of his aides. General Sir Hew Dalrymple is in command of the military forces. General Burrard will take the left flank. Sergeant Goren. In a later battle, Colonels Bree and Featherstone take the center. Colonel Rethlow will back them with artillery. Generals Paget and Ollen get their orders.
The Ministry
Perceval is Prime Minister. Lords Bathurst and Liverpool are the new Foreign Secretary and Secretary of War. Lord Eldon is Lord Chancellor. Giles is with the Ministry. And Temeraire wants a word.
Some of the officers are grateful for Laurence's actions in Empire of Ivory , including Captain Hesterfield, Von Pfeil, Captain Dyhern, Captain Prewitt, Captain Latour, Gounod, and Reynolds.
Others despise him: Captain Geoffrey Windle, Captain Miller rides Devastatio in courier service, Maclaine, and Martin who is now part of Orchestia's crew (an Anglewing captained by Fenter) and very much against Laurence and Temeraire.
Captain Tom Riley had been a friend of Laurence's and captain of the HMS Allegiance, a dragon transport. Now he's married to Captain Catherine Harcourt who rides Lily ( Empire of Ivory ). They have a son. Poor guy. He had no notion babies must be fed every two hours, and Catherine has gone off to the coast for battle. Lord Purbeck is first lieutenant and despises Laurence.
The three eggs are a Yellow Reaper, a cross between a Chequered Nettle and a Parnassian, and Arkady and Wringe's egg.
Bertram Woolvey is the man who married Laurence's love, Edith Galman. They have a son, James. Sutton-Leeds is Woolvey's drunk friend. I think Gavins is Lord Holland's man. Darby (a.k.a., Janus) is one of Holland's stablehands. Lady Hamilton is also still in occupied London.
The Reverend Daniel Salcombe is the quite insulting know-it-all. Georgie is a lad from Twickenham.
The French
I think the emperor, Napoleon, rides Accendare, a Flamme-de-Gloire. Lung Tien Lien is the white Celestial who fled China in Throne of Jade , 2, and now advises Napoleon. Marshals Lefèbvre, Murat, and Davout are in England. Talleyrand is here for a peace conference; Liberté is the dragon he's riding.
Dragons in l'Armée de l'Air include:
Grand Chevaliers are the largest of the French heavyweights; Fleur-de-Nuits; Pêcheur-Rayés; Papillon Noirs; Roi-de-Vitesses; Pou-de-Ciels; Garde-de-Lyons; Honneur-d'Ors; Chanson-de-Guerres; Defendeur-Braves; and, Chasseur-Vocifères.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a range of yellows and browns with the dark brown roiling seas and the two battling ships, the flare of the cannons bright against all that dark. The background gradually lightens to a sunny yellow at the top. The author's name is at the top in a shadowed deep orange while the title is bigger and below it in a deep brown. Both are embossed. Just below center is a black dragon, hovering in mid-air, holding a banner with the series information in the same yellow.
The title is a win, a Victory of Eagles.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
boocha
When Laurence and Temeraire are separated, Temeraire assumes a commission of his own. The introduction of Temerarie's PoV is only briefly disorientating; it is, on the whole, a great addition, because this book is all about consequences--of the recent cliffhanger, but also of Laurence's actions throughout the series, and to see them from without, via a character unaware of that complicated social and moral position, is especially effective. It also keeps this book from becoming too dour--so too does the breadth of the action and progression of the war. This is almost too neat a book, in the way that reoccurring characters and ongoing arcs tie into the plot, but that would be my only complaint; I loved it, I found it necessary and well-realized and, if less pointedly feel-good than other series favorites, then perhaps more substantial.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
pete frank
I'm rounding up about half a star.
Both Laurence and Temeraire, not to mention the rest of England, spend this book dealing with the consequences of the momentous decision they made toward the end of the preceding Empire of Ivory. I've seen the word "grim" in a review of this book, and it's appropriate, though the tone is not entirely unrelieved. There are many passages from Temeraire's point of view which shed a piquant light on events, as well as introducing us to Temeraire as a leader and as something of an amateur politician. Temeraire is more an actor and less acted upon than in any previous book in the series.
The series theme of stubborn, inflexible, and blockheaded bureaucracy continues, although in the story as in life, military necessity sometimes forces even members of bureaucracies to consider original ideas. Also much in evidence: the ethical issues and paradoxes inherent in the notion of "rules of war."
Both Laurence and Temeraire, not to mention the rest of England, spend this book dealing with the consequences of the momentous decision they made toward the end of the preceding Empire of Ivory. I've seen the word "grim" in a review of this book, and it's appropriate, though the tone is not entirely unrelieved. There are many passages from Temeraire's point of view which shed a piquant light on events, as well as introducing us to Temeraire as a leader and as something of an amateur politician. Temeraire is more an actor and less acted upon than in any previous book in the series.
The series theme of stubborn, inflexible, and blockheaded bureaucracy continues, although in the story as in life, military necessity sometimes forces even members of bureaucracies to consider original ideas. Also much in evidence: the ethical issues and paradoxes inherent in the notion of "rules of war."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
keith allingham
Overall, excellent book. This one was a bit different, in that parts of the story were told from Temeraire's point of view. While I don't normally care for split viewpoints, I saw it more as a maturing feature of Temeraire, more than anything else.
Napoleon has come to England, so the war is raging, and Laurence's past choices have come back to haunt him. The results of his choices of past books (not gonna spoil it) have not gone away. Nor should they. I like that the consequences are realistic and not iced over like I have read in other novels. It is a shame what they go through, because I agree with his decisions, and, while it is nice in some stories to have past transgressions all tied up in a bow of forgiveness, given the realistic nature (outside of dragons) of these novels, to have everything fixed and all be well after what has happened, would be a sour note indeed.
Lots of action, fighting, and evils of war in this one. Bad leaders, bad choices, bad results. Precisely what war is about. Great storytelling and world building. Initially, I gave the book four stars, due to the difficulties of the war, what our heroes went through and me squirming through it in sympathy. However, isn't that was makes a book great? To be in pain when something bad happens, to laugh when something humorous happens, and to sigh in contentment when the story is complete. Sure, more pain in this one, but still the quality of the story and narrative make the five stars deserved.
Napoleon has come to England, so the war is raging, and Laurence's past choices have come back to haunt him. The results of his choices of past books (not gonna spoil it) have not gone away. Nor should they. I like that the consequences are realistic and not iced over like I have read in other novels. It is a shame what they go through, because I agree with his decisions, and, while it is nice in some stories to have past transgressions all tied up in a bow of forgiveness, given the realistic nature (outside of dragons) of these novels, to have everything fixed and all be well after what has happened, would be a sour note indeed.
Lots of action, fighting, and evils of war in this one. Bad leaders, bad choices, bad results. Precisely what war is about. Great storytelling and world building. Initially, I gave the book four stars, due to the difficulties of the war, what our heroes went through and me squirming through it in sympathy. However, isn't that was makes a book great? To be in pain when something bad happens, to laugh when something humorous happens, and to sigh in contentment when the story is complete. Sure, more pain in this one, but still the quality of the story and narrative make the five stars deserved.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
haryo nurtiar
Well, I'd heard this book was a low-point in the series, but I have to say -- I am so enchanted with Novik's Napoleonic-era dragons, I was not put off in the least. Will Laurence is facing execution for his treason in providing a cure to the sick dragons of France. His dragon Temeraire finds himself shuttled off to a breeding ground, boring and awkward by turns.
I very much enjoyed the eventual reunion of our heroes. Some of the battle tactics towards the end of the book, when the desperate humans finally turn over aerial battle planning to creatures that can actually fly, are incredibly inventive and dramatic.
There are plenty of favorite dragons here: Lily the acid-spitter, who still really doesn't approve of her captain Catherine's unorthodox decision to marry. Fiery Iskierka is still a delight. Her hoardish tendencies get the best of her, and she's barely under control of the Corps, and her captain, poor Granby, resembles nothing more than an overdressed lapdog, as his dragon insists on outfitting him in whatever gold or sparkly bits catch her eye. Whenever I picture Granby, I think of one of those little dogs wearing a ridiculous sweater, with sad eyes, as if to say, "Look how ridiculous my owner has made me look."
There are some new characters, too. I enjoyed cowardly dragon Percitia, who runs from a battle, but finally finds her niche as a battle strategist, safely away from enemy lines. I liked Gentius too, an elderly dragon, who occasionally lapses into 16th century speech.
The end of this book sees Laurence finally shaking off his depression, and accepting a commuted sentence of banishment to Australia.
I very much enjoyed the eventual reunion of our heroes. Some of the battle tactics towards the end of the book, when the desperate humans finally turn over aerial battle planning to creatures that can actually fly, are incredibly inventive and dramatic.
There are plenty of favorite dragons here: Lily the acid-spitter, who still really doesn't approve of her captain Catherine's unorthodox decision to marry. Fiery Iskierka is still a delight. Her hoardish tendencies get the best of her, and she's barely under control of the Corps, and her captain, poor Granby, resembles nothing more than an overdressed lapdog, as his dragon insists on outfitting him in whatever gold or sparkly bits catch her eye. Whenever I picture Granby, I think of one of those little dogs wearing a ridiculous sweater, with sad eyes, as if to say, "Look how ridiculous my owner has made me look."
There are some new characters, too. I enjoyed cowardly dragon Percitia, who runs from a battle, but finally finds her niche as a battle strategist, safely away from enemy lines. I liked Gentius too, an elderly dragon, who occasionally lapses into 16th century speech.
The end of this book sees Laurence finally shaking off his depression, and accepting a commuted sentence of banishment to Australia.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kemal
At the end of "Empire of Ivory," Captain Laurence and his Celestial dragon Temeraire risked everything for conscience: they brought the cure for the dragon-plague to Napoleon when England's military leadership saw the plague as a mighty weapon. A noble decision has harsh consequences, as Laurence opens Book 5, "Victory of Eagles," a prisoner on board ship while Temeraire sits idle at the breeding grounds hundreds of miles away.
This bleak opening sets the tone for "Victory," which may be the darkest novel in Naomi Novik's series to date. All too soon Napoleon has led his armies across the Channel and has occupied London. Thanks to his wise treatment of dragons (and the vengeful advice of Temeraire's nemesis, the white Celestial dragon Lien), Napoleon outnumbers the English forces in both men and dragons . . . and he knows how to use both.
Laurence would be destined for the gallows were it not for his bond with Temeraire, and Arthur Wellesley (soon to be Lord Wellington) is willing to soil his hands by dealing with treasonous scum as long as it helps him whip Napoleon. And so while he has been spared the hangman, Laurence is left to stew in his own conscience - sure, he did what he knew was right, but how can he face his fellow Englishmen now that the French dragons he saved are fighting on England's hallowed grounds?
True to form, Novik lightens the mood with lots of subtle humor in the Patrick O'Brian ("Master and Commander") mode. Much of the humor comes from her passages writing from Temeraire's perspective, as Novik delights in giving voice to the common sense of dragons. Indeed, while Laurence is an admirable man, Temeraire and his fellow dragons are far more interesting characters.
This series remains one for older kids - Novik doesn't glory in the bloodshed, but the fact remains that she's describing several brutal battle scenes. Her elevated O'Brian-esque language may also be a challenge for younger readers. For kids of the right reading level, the "Temeraire" series remains on the must-read list.
This bleak opening sets the tone for "Victory," which may be the darkest novel in Naomi Novik's series to date. All too soon Napoleon has led his armies across the Channel and has occupied London. Thanks to his wise treatment of dragons (and the vengeful advice of Temeraire's nemesis, the white Celestial dragon Lien), Napoleon outnumbers the English forces in both men and dragons . . . and he knows how to use both.
Laurence would be destined for the gallows were it not for his bond with Temeraire, and Arthur Wellesley (soon to be Lord Wellington) is willing to soil his hands by dealing with treasonous scum as long as it helps him whip Napoleon. And so while he has been spared the hangman, Laurence is left to stew in his own conscience - sure, he did what he knew was right, but how can he face his fellow Englishmen now that the French dragons he saved are fighting on England's hallowed grounds?
True to form, Novik lightens the mood with lots of subtle humor in the Patrick O'Brian ("Master and Commander") mode. Much of the humor comes from her passages writing from Temeraire's perspective, as Novik delights in giving voice to the common sense of dragons. Indeed, while Laurence is an admirable man, Temeraire and his fellow dragons are far more interesting characters.
This series remains one for older kids - Novik doesn't glory in the bloodshed, but the fact remains that she's describing several brutal battle scenes. Her elevated O'Brian-esque language may also be a challenge for younger readers. For kids of the right reading level, the "Temeraire" series remains on the must-read list.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
jonathan humphreys
Laurence and Temeraire have returned to England from delivering the mushroom that acts as the cure for the illness that affected the dragons, but since infecting the French dragons was something that the state was doing to help in the war effort, the view from the Admiralty, government, and everyone who hears of it, is that they are traitors and are so treated: Temeraire is sent off to the breeding grounds to spend his days in complete boredom, while Laurence is sealed up in the brig of the ship Goliath - there to stay until he dies of natural causes.
Fortunately for our heroes, it happens that Napoleon invades England and so the course of this book is to reunite the pair and have them fight for England to help repel the invasion. The fun in this book comes in the lower level details of the storyline. Most importantly of all, many of you must have wondered why it is that the Dragons do not take better control of their destiny? In this novel, Temeraire does exactly that - since Laurence is jailed, Temeraire organizes a regiment of Dragons (none of whom have Captains) and leads them in attacks against the French. As a result of this - and some confusion among the British high command - Temeraire is appointed the Colonel in charge of the 81st Regiment. When the miscommunication is revealed, it is too late. Temeraire takes control and the Dragon regiment will listen to him.
Of course discipline among the dragons is not what it is among the people, and so the dragon regiment has to figure out how they will operate and who will provide commands etc. This introduces us to a female dragon who is quite a scholar and she comes up with many innovative ideas. Another undisciplined Dragon is Iskierka who tends to take her Captain with her when she goes off on a wild goose chase. This leads her into expected trouble from which Temeraire and Laurence have to rescue her. This, in turn, reveals some more of Laurence's background and his complete stiffness as a person. I will not go into the details of this subplot, as it would be too much of a giveaway, but I will say that I do not approve of the resolution of this subplot in this volume as I thought it was too formulaic and promises too much for future volumes.
Napoleon manages to win some battles in England and consequently Temeraire and Laurence are dispatched on a mission that is quite against the code of honor that is so dear to Laurence's thinking. War is terrible and for some reason, Laurence manages to get himself into a depressed state when the high commander issues him orders that are strategically sound, but that do not quite lead to a pitched battle in the sky against other dragons. Nonetheless, these orders are correct and the results are that another major battle is fought between the British Army and French Army and this time, Napoleon is soundly defeated and is forced to leave England on the back of a single Dragon while most of his army is left behind to surrender. The last chapter then shows us what will be the next chapter in the saga - and it has nothing (apparently) to do with Napoleon.
The writing in this book is quite engaging and compelling and I was drawn in to the story. This is why I rate this book as high as four stars. The one star I did take away was because of some of the faults I describe above. In addition, I was also not pleased with the resolution after the main battle. As Temeraire was moved from Colonel to Commodore, and all the other Dragons also received commissions, I expected some more time to be spent on how they decide to serve the British crown - yet that whole aspect of progress for the Dragons was simply swept under the rug. Maybe - hopefully - it will be addressed more in the upcoming volumes of this series. I certainly look forward to reading them.
Fortunately for our heroes, it happens that Napoleon invades England and so the course of this book is to reunite the pair and have them fight for England to help repel the invasion. The fun in this book comes in the lower level details of the storyline. Most importantly of all, many of you must have wondered why it is that the Dragons do not take better control of their destiny? In this novel, Temeraire does exactly that - since Laurence is jailed, Temeraire organizes a regiment of Dragons (none of whom have Captains) and leads them in attacks against the French. As a result of this - and some confusion among the British high command - Temeraire is appointed the Colonel in charge of the 81st Regiment. When the miscommunication is revealed, it is too late. Temeraire takes control and the Dragon regiment will listen to him.
Of course discipline among the dragons is not what it is among the people, and so the dragon regiment has to figure out how they will operate and who will provide commands etc. This introduces us to a female dragon who is quite a scholar and she comes up with many innovative ideas. Another undisciplined Dragon is Iskierka who tends to take her Captain with her when she goes off on a wild goose chase. This leads her into expected trouble from which Temeraire and Laurence have to rescue her. This, in turn, reveals some more of Laurence's background and his complete stiffness as a person. I will not go into the details of this subplot, as it would be too much of a giveaway, but I will say that I do not approve of the resolution of this subplot in this volume as I thought it was too formulaic and promises too much for future volumes.
Napoleon manages to win some battles in England and consequently Temeraire and Laurence are dispatched on a mission that is quite against the code of honor that is so dear to Laurence's thinking. War is terrible and for some reason, Laurence manages to get himself into a depressed state when the high commander issues him orders that are strategically sound, but that do not quite lead to a pitched battle in the sky against other dragons. Nonetheless, these orders are correct and the results are that another major battle is fought between the British Army and French Army and this time, Napoleon is soundly defeated and is forced to leave England on the back of a single Dragon while most of his army is left behind to surrender. The last chapter then shows us what will be the next chapter in the saga - and it has nothing (apparently) to do with Napoleon.
The writing in this book is quite engaging and compelling and I was drawn in to the story. This is why I rate this book as high as four stars. The one star I did take away was because of some of the faults I describe above. In addition, I was also not pleased with the resolution after the main battle. As Temeraire was moved from Colonel to Commodore, and all the other Dragons also received commissions, I expected some more time to be spent on how they decide to serve the British crown - yet that whole aspect of progress for the Dragons was simply swept under the rug. Maybe - hopefully - it will be addressed more in the upcoming volumes of this series. I certainly look forward to reading them.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
linda t
"True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost." --Arthur Ashe
EMPIRE OF IVORY was a grand exploration adventure to a strange civilization on a mysterious continent. I missed seeing Lawrence and Temeraire within the milieu of the armed services battling against Napoleon, however. This book returns them to all that with a vengeance.
We last saw our heroes finding a cure for the dragon plague, but then having to choose to do what should be the right thing over Lawrence's oath to his service and his country. Lawrence insists on returning to face dishonor and death --or a postponed death while he's held hostage for Temeraire's good behavior, since the country still wishes to keep the rare Celestial dragon.
Temeraire is relegated to the very boring, for him, breeding grounds in Wales. Lawrence is kept prisoner aboard ship, where he is able to see when Napoleon launches his invasion of England. This disaster overshadows, at least a bit, the crime of Lawrence and Temeraire. He is still a condemned traitor (at a time when hanging, drawing and quartering was still technically in effect for that capital crime), a disgrace to his family and friends and all he served with, and drummed from the service, but now there is some more immediate need for Temeraire. Lawrence is ordered to go and retrieve Temeraire for active service.
This is not a happy time for Lawrence. He's for all intents and purposes a broken man, save for his desire to keep Temeraire alive and, if not happy, at least not grieving for him before it becomes impossible to avoid. Lawrence has to deal with the fact that doing the right thing can have dark consequences. For Temeraire, it is all so much simpler (or relatively so. Temeraire is complex for a dragon, as most just want to be kept fed. Temeraire wants rights for dragons. And he wants Lawrence back, no matter what. Lawrence, however glad he is to be back with Temeraire, carries a load of guilt for what he has done, right or not. Napoleon would not have been able to invade but for his actions.
And in the meantime, Napoleon is heading for London, his troops and his dragons strong and organized. The British government and its military are in shock and disarray, the countryside is raided for the supply of the French: very dark and desperate times, indeed.
The action is intense and fast-paced, between small skirmishes and full-scale battles. The suspense and tension is unrelenting, with physical danger threatening as well as the uncertain fate of Lawrence and Temeraire. The focus is concentrated on Lawrence and Temeraire and the invasion of England. The quiet despair of Lawrence, who keeps fighting because of his love of country and Temeraire, is poignant and evocative. His struggle with his conscious and the consequences of his action is deeply moving and thought-provoking.
I was touched by Lawrence's sacrifices in the very first book in this series, in order to be with Temeraire and do his duty to his country; and also caught up in Temeraire's unconditional love for Lawrence. These characters and their relationship and Lawrence's sense of honor and duty, are the essence of this series. All these things and more are brought back to the forefront once more in this book, and I adored it. I am more a fan of this series than ever.
EMPIRE OF IVORY was a grand exploration adventure to a strange civilization on a mysterious continent. I missed seeing Lawrence and Temeraire within the milieu of the armed services battling against Napoleon, however. This book returns them to all that with a vengeance.
We last saw our heroes finding a cure for the dragon plague, but then having to choose to do what should be the right thing over Lawrence's oath to his service and his country. Lawrence insists on returning to face dishonor and death --or a postponed death while he's held hostage for Temeraire's good behavior, since the country still wishes to keep the rare Celestial dragon.
Temeraire is relegated to the very boring, for him, breeding grounds in Wales. Lawrence is kept prisoner aboard ship, where he is able to see when Napoleon launches his invasion of England. This disaster overshadows, at least a bit, the crime of Lawrence and Temeraire. He is still a condemned traitor (at a time when hanging, drawing and quartering was still technically in effect for that capital crime), a disgrace to his family and friends and all he served with, and drummed from the service, but now there is some more immediate need for Temeraire. Lawrence is ordered to go and retrieve Temeraire for active service.
This is not a happy time for Lawrence. He's for all intents and purposes a broken man, save for his desire to keep Temeraire alive and, if not happy, at least not grieving for him before it becomes impossible to avoid. Lawrence has to deal with the fact that doing the right thing can have dark consequences. For Temeraire, it is all so much simpler (or relatively so. Temeraire is complex for a dragon, as most just want to be kept fed. Temeraire wants rights for dragons. And he wants Lawrence back, no matter what. Lawrence, however glad he is to be back with Temeraire, carries a load of guilt for what he has done, right or not. Napoleon would not have been able to invade but for his actions.
And in the meantime, Napoleon is heading for London, his troops and his dragons strong and organized. The British government and its military are in shock and disarray, the countryside is raided for the supply of the French: very dark and desperate times, indeed.
The action is intense and fast-paced, between small skirmishes and full-scale battles. The suspense and tension is unrelenting, with physical danger threatening as well as the uncertain fate of Lawrence and Temeraire. The focus is concentrated on Lawrence and Temeraire and the invasion of England. The quiet despair of Lawrence, who keeps fighting because of his love of country and Temeraire, is poignant and evocative. His struggle with his conscious and the consequences of his action is deeply moving and thought-provoking.
I was touched by Lawrence's sacrifices in the very first book in this series, in order to be with Temeraire and do his duty to his country; and also caught up in Temeraire's unconditional love for Lawrence. These characters and their relationship and Lawrence's sense of honor and duty, are the essence of this series. All these things and more are brought back to the forefront once more in this book, and I adored it. I am more a fan of this series than ever.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
selin cozer
This fifth adventure of Temeraire and Laurence continues very well, and indeed there's a sort-of resolution at the end, though not a very satisfactory one nor one that promises an early end to the series. As it begins, Laurence has been condemned to death, and Temeraire to the breeding pens, although in order to keep Temeraire under control Laurence's sentence has been postponed indefinitely and he's been confined to a warship participating in the blockade of the Continent. Then the ship Laurence was on is sunk; he's one of the survivors, but Temeraire is informed that there were none, so he feels released from any obligation to follow orders. And so he organizes the dragons in the breeding pens into a force of riderless dragons to fight the French, who have broken the blockade and landed an army of 50,000 or so in Britain. Laurence, meanwhile, is reprieved if he'll go get Temeraire and return him to active fighting under the Admiralty (they don't know of his breakout with the other breeding dragons). After some jumping around missing connections they manage to join up, and do some useful stuff for the Brits, although some of what they do is contrary to what Laurence (and most British officers) consider to be the laws of war. Eventually Napoleon is defeated, although he escapes back to France, and Laurence and Temeraire are condemned to transportation to Australia and its penal colony. Laurence is too noble to be really believable, but that's the way the series has been set up and I guess I have to accept it. Temeraire is a lot more practical. There's another new dragon character I quite like--a mid-sized dragon who's also something of a mathematical genius (she's worked out things like the Pythagorean Theorem and the nature of e without ever having heard of them) named Perscitia. And Arthur Wellesley plays a prominent role, though the copyreaders did miss one place where he's referred to as "Wellington" before he got his Dukedom. Also, Novik (and her copyreaders) don't seem to realize that the English Channel starts at the Straits of Dover on its eastern end; she several times refers to "the Channel" when speaking of the waters off the ports of Shoeburyness and Sheerness, which are quite a ways north and east of Dover. The boundaries between parts of the ocean are somewhat arbitrary, so I don't know if both ports are on the Thames Estuary, both on the North Sea, or one on one and one the other (they're more or less opposite each other more or less where the estuary opens out into the wider sea). But, I suppose, let it pass. It's still an excellent story.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jan cannon
so many authors who try to represent regency england hit false notes in the language or the motivations. but she manages to show lawrence's stiff notions of honor and his insularity honestly and sympathetically. she shows us some of the uglier parts of english ideas, the arguments about slavery, the forcing of opium on china, the condescension to other cultures. yet lawrence remains likable. i like the childishness of the dragons also which makes sense at their age - child prodigies of sorts. i love her language, perhaps not exactly what an author of the times would have used, but awfully close in the long many claused sentences. i do hope temeraire and lawrence come to a peaceful valley at the end of the last volume
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
soyeba
I fairly recently discovered this series and have read it straight through - just waiting on interlibrary loan for the last one. Overall, this is a great series. The author has created a fascinating world and filled it with interesting characters. And, if you've read the first books in the series, then you should certainly read this one. I found Victory of Eagles to be a bit grim, with, for the most part, just one unpleasant event after another. But, it does advance the story and seems to be a necessary piece of the puzzle.
My major complaint with this book is with the character of Will Laurence. The man often behaves like a fool. I might even go so far as to call him an insufferable prig. I hope that we saw, at the end of this book, a glimmer of Will beginning to get a clue and I am anxious to see if the next book will present me with a Will Laurence that I don't want to grab by the collar and shake.
I would love to know if it was the author's intention that I should start rooting for Bonaparte and hoping for the demise of most of the upper echelons of the British military, because that was certainly what has happened.
My major complaint with this book is with the character of Will Laurence. The man often behaves like a fool. I might even go so far as to call him an insufferable prig. I hope that we saw, at the end of this book, a glimmer of Will beginning to get a clue and I am anxious to see if the next book will present me with a Will Laurence that I don't want to grab by the collar and shake.
I would love to know if it was the author's intention that I should start rooting for Bonaparte and hoping for the demise of most of the upper echelons of the British military, because that was certainly what has happened.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
miina
Victory of Eagles continues the greatness of Empire of Ivory. I felt that with these two books, Naomi Novik finally hit her stride again after Throne of Jade. In Victory of Eagles we read the aftermath of Termeraire and Laurence's choice to bring the cure to the French. And for the first time, we have major sections of the book devoted to draconic pov.
With this book, Novik has really succeeded in bringing the dragons to life, in a way she hasn't done since China. Temeraire has always been a bit on the human side, but in this book not only do other dragons gain personality and depth but also a clearer measure of "dragon-ness."
As with most of the other books, Victory of Eagles has fantastic characterization and character development. And ends with an amazing battle. I do, however, think Novik missed out on an opportunity at the beginning of the book. She revealed Lawrence too soon, which nullified the tension and suspense that she had been building. She could learn a thing or two from Lord of the Rings...by separating pov's a bit more she could have upped the tension. There is a value in misinformation. The reader doesn't need to know everything all the time; and I think a longer stretch in the dark regarding Lawrence would have made the book stronger.
With this book, Novik has really succeeded in bringing the dragons to life, in a way she hasn't done since China. Temeraire has always been a bit on the human side, but in this book not only do other dragons gain personality and depth but also a clearer measure of "dragon-ness."
As with most of the other books, Victory of Eagles has fantastic characterization and character development. And ends with an amazing battle. I do, however, think Novik missed out on an opportunity at the beginning of the book. She revealed Lawrence too soon, which nullified the tension and suspense that she had been building. She could learn a thing or two from Lord of the Rings...by separating pov's a bit more she could have upped the tension. There is a value in misinformation. The reader doesn't need to know everything all the time; and I think a longer stretch in the dark regarding Lawrence would have made the book stronger.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
barbara b
Out of the five Temeraire book I've read, this is my 2nd favorite (after book 1). Every time I read one of these books I fall in love with Temeraire all over again - best dragon ever! Not much else to say about it a this point -if you're considering reading Victory of Eagles, you already like the series.
OH - PS - I love the narrator on the audiobook. He sounds exactly how I imagine Temeraire to sound.
OH - PS - I love the narrator on the audiobook. He sounds exactly how I imagine Temeraire to sound.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
marina
I was disappointed in the predecessor to this book (Empire of Ivory), so I was wary when I began this book. Not to worry. Novik has regained her stride in telling Temeraire's story.
The engaging characters are still there, with the intriguing backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars in an alternate history. Both Temeraire and Laurence develop and change in this book (I liked that), and Novik introduces more new characters, mostly draconic, for readers to meet, like, and love. For readers who want action, there's lots of it, as Temeraire and Laurence resist Napoleon's latest incursion on England and encounter the day-to-day challenges of war.
As with the previous books, Novik shows a solid grasp of history, and the book has undercurrents about the morality of war and its costs, and the right to justice and freedom for all citizens. Not heavy-duty, but the themes are there if you care to examine them. Novik lightens these hard questions with a sly humor as Temeraire rises in the world of men-- a welcome touch.
Overall, an enjoyable, good read, and a thought-provoking one as well. Along with the first Temeraire book, one of my favorite books in the series.
The engaging characters are still there, with the intriguing backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars in an alternate history. Both Temeraire and Laurence develop and change in this book (I liked that), and Novik introduces more new characters, mostly draconic, for readers to meet, like, and love. For readers who want action, there's lots of it, as Temeraire and Laurence resist Napoleon's latest incursion on England and encounter the day-to-day challenges of war.
As with the previous books, Novik shows a solid grasp of history, and the book has undercurrents about the morality of war and its costs, and the right to justice and freedom for all citizens. Not heavy-duty, but the themes are there if you care to examine them. Novik lightens these hard questions with a sly humor as Temeraire rises in the world of men-- a welcome touch.
Overall, an enjoyable, good read, and a thought-provoking one as well. Along with the first Temeraire book, one of my favorite books in the series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
danielle rateau
Even though the preceding volume in this ongoing series ended on a cliffhanger, with Napoleon about to invade Britain, the real story here has to do with the developing relationship between Laurence and Temeraire. That's what's holding me to the story, and will keep me anticipating each new volume. The Temeraire series is light reading, but is more than merely a guilty pleasure.
Novik does a marvelous job describing the ongoing battles and intrigues -- and obviously has done a great deal of research. Little details stand out in the midst of elaborate descriptions -- I was struck by her description of a cannon ball that had been fired on the ship where Laurence was imprisoned. It was moving at a pace where the guard thought he might stop it with his foot -- but it had built up enough momentum that it ripped cleanly through his foot and a wall before ceasing to roll.
Where the book really shines, though, is in its attention to the evolution in Laurence's attitudes and response to situations -- his commitment to a sense of honor and dignity in the face of the indignities he suffers -- and in its tracing of an evolution in Temeraire's understanding of himself and of the world. Temeraire was born intelligent and able to speak -- a situation quite different from that of human beings who have to grow into reason, and for whom habituation and norms come prior to elaborate self reflection. He can't understand Laurence's peculiar sense of pride and dignity in the service of duty -- and why he would be willing to be executed for treason when he did what was obviously the just thing. What I found most intriguing in this book were the ways he tried to make sense of Laurence's values -- even as his experiences began to call for some of the same skills as Laurence.
Apart from its alternative history, the series is clearly moving in a direction where Temeraire will begin to develop an independence and autonomy from Laurence -- that is essential to his development. One of the primary reasons offered in the series why the dragons -- while sentient and intelligent -- are not free is the fact that humans have exploited the fact that they imprint so strongly to a master. If Temeraire is to live up to his promise to be a leader among dragons, he will have to find a degree of autonomy and independence in spite of this.
The series looks as though it could go on for a while -- and that's not a bad thing. I look forward to the future exploits and adventures and growth of both Laurence and Temeraire.
Novik does a marvelous job describing the ongoing battles and intrigues -- and obviously has done a great deal of research. Little details stand out in the midst of elaborate descriptions -- I was struck by her description of a cannon ball that had been fired on the ship where Laurence was imprisoned. It was moving at a pace where the guard thought he might stop it with his foot -- but it had built up enough momentum that it ripped cleanly through his foot and a wall before ceasing to roll.
Where the book really shines, though, is in its attention to the evolution in Laurence's attitudes and response to situations -- his commitment to a sense of honor and dignity in the face of the indignities he suffers -- and in its tracing of an evolution in Temeraire's understanding of himself and of the world. Temeraire was born intelligent and able to speak -- a situation quite different from that of human beings who have to grow into reason, and for whom habituation and norms come prior to elaborate self reflection. He can't understand Laurence's peculiar sense of pride and dignity in the service of duty -- and why he would be willing to be executed for treason when he did what was obviously the just thing. What I found most intriguing in this book were the ways he tried to make sense of Laurence's values -- even as his experiences began to call for some of the same skills as Laurence.
Apart from its alternative history, the series is clearly moving in a direction where Temeraire will begin to develop an independence and autonomy from Laurence -- that is essential to his development. One of the primary reasons offered in the series why the dragons -- while sentient and intelligent -- are not free is the fact that humans have exploited the fact that they imprint so strongly to a master. If Temeraire is to live up to his promise to be a leader among dragons, he will have to find a degree of autonomy and independence in spite of this.
The series looks as though it could go on for a while -- and that's not a bad thing. I look forward to the future exploits and adventures and growth of both Laurence and Temeraire.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
jonathan humphreys
Temeraire is one of the most intriguing heroes in fantasy today. And this book, fifth in Naomi Novik's wonderful series, marks an interesting reversal in the relationship between the dragon Temeraire and his human captain, William Laurence. In the previous four books, Laurence has struggled to understand the point of view of his dragon charge and has done so with loyalty and winning affection.
So much so, that at the end of book IV, Laurence yields to his dragon's urging and the pair of them take an antidote to France to stem the epidemic of a dragon-killing disease. For this action, Laurence is condemned as a traitor. Although events in the war soon free Laurence and reunite dragon and captain, now Temeraire has to grapple with the despair Laurence feels over being ostracized and the guilt and depression from betraying his country. This book is packed with great battles and sweeping action, but the heart of it lies in Temeraire's inability to understand the abstract concepts like honor, duty, devotion to country that are the motivating forces in his human's life.
My main complaint with this author is her inability to write a clean ending. In five novels, each time she fails to resolve important questions, trying to ensure that the reader will sign up to buy the next book. She needs to revisit the work of an author who has obviously influenced her concept of dragons: Anne McCaffrey. McCaffrey successfully kept a longer and much more complex series going and managed excellent upbeat endings for all of her books. I think with a little effort Novik could give us a little more resolution than she does.
So much so, that at the end of book IV, Laurence yields to his dragon's urging and the pair of them take an antidote to France to stem the epidemic of a dragon-killing disease. For this action, Laurence is condemned as a traitor. Although events in the war soon free Laurence and reunite dragon and captain, now Temeraire has to grapple with the despair Laurence feels over being ostracized and the guilt and depression from betraying his country. This book is packed with great battles and sweeping action, but the heart of it lies in Temeraire's inability to understand the abstract concepts like honor, duty, devotion to country that are the motivating forces in his human's life.
My main complaint with this author is her inability to write a clean ending. In five novels, each time she fails to resolve important questions, trying to ensure that the reader will sign up to buy the next book. She needs to revisit the work of an author who has obviously influenced her concept of dragons: Anne McCaffrey. McCaffrey successfully kept a longer and much more complex series going and managed excellent upbeat endings for all of her books. I think with a little effort Novik could give us a little more resolution than she does.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
celeste jensen
Bestselling author Naomi Novik returns with the fifth book in her Temeraire series - which has since been optioned by Peter Jackson - Victory of Eagles, where the war is not going so well for Britain, as Napoleon lands on her shores with his army of men and dragons fighting for his empire.
Temeraire is uncertain of the fate of his master and dearly close friend Captain Laurence, after the events of Empire of Ivory, Laurence now finds himself sentenced a traitor and awaiting execution. Relieved of service and residing in some breeding grounds in Wales, Temeraire must battle great odds to defy the military conduct, find, and rescue Laurence. In his journey, Temeraire gains some allies and begins a small army of his own, composed solely of dragons and no commanders, who fight by their own code and conduct. Eventually joining the British force against Napoleon, Temeraire demands pay and rights for the dragons, equal to those given to any member of His Majesty's service. It is up to Temeraire and his army to first find Laurence and then to help defend Britain again Napoleon's invading forces, or all may be lost.
Victory of Eagles is a stunning addition to the series that adds new elements and subplots, making the continuing story more interesting and riveting. Like the others, Victory of Eagles leaves readers hungrily waiting for more.
Find more reviews, as well as a selection of my writing, and a link to the book review podcast BookBanter at [...].
Temeraire is uncertain of the fate of his master and dearly close friend Captain Laurence, after the events of Empire of Ivory, Laurence now finds himself sentenced a traitor and awaiting execution. Relieved of service and residing in some breeding grounds in Wales, Temeraire must battle great odds to defy the military conduct, find, and rescue Laurence. In his journey, Temeraire gains some allies and begins a small army of his own, composed solely of dragons and no commanders, who fight by their own code and conduct. Eventually joining the British force against Napoleon, Temeraire demands pay and rights for the dragons, equal to those given to any member of His Majesty's service. It is up to Temeraire and his army to first find Laurence and then to help defend Britain again Napoleon's invading forces, or all may be lost.
Victory of Eagles is a stunning addition to the series that adds new elements and subplots, making the continuing story more interesting and riveting. Like the others, Victory of Eagles leaves readers hungrily waiting for more.
Find more reviews, as well as a selection of my writing, and a link to the book review podcast BookBanter at [...].
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
pedro serafim
This is the 5th book in the series and Novik continues to be thrilling to read! I loved Empire of Ivory the best, for reimagining what Africa and African History during the Napoleonic period would be like if some of the tribes had dragons. However, this book takes readers back to England, where Napoleon has successfully invaded and where Captain Will Laurence and Temeraire are separately imprisoned for treason. Lovely reunion -- fabulous aerial battles -- and Wellesley (to be named Wellington with Temeraire's help!) is great fun!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
chelsea
I read each of the works as they came out, and am now binge-reading all 6 in anticipation of the last one in the series. Such a clever premise, taking historical material and adding dragons. Her depictions of various geographical areas, personalities of historic characters, and attention to detail in cultures and customs make it all the more enjoyable for a history buff who also enjoys fantasy.
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
tyler
To start, I've been voraciously reading this series since Kevin at out local independent bookstore recommended it a week and a half ago. Even with the dialogue often written as people would speak from that period, it's very readable, and I'm happy to report that it's emotionally captivating and the humor has actually improved as the series has gone on (I often laugh out loud at what some of the dragons say). That said, the books are starting to feel like a cross between Lemony Snicket and Mr. Bill - the protagonists seem to go from frying pan to fire to hurricane to, well, you name it. Whether a disaster of nature, war, or of their own making, it is starting to feel just too heavy. As the books have ventured further and further away from actual history, the crises seem only to have increased, become more unbelievable, and it actually dampens the drama of them. The character development suffers as well, and I'm generally disappointed by the choices the author is making. Rather than the ongoing suffering of the main characters, how about some time devoted to interesting character interaction - more of Temeraire helping the British overcome their fear of dragons? And why introduce so many interesting Chinese characters in book 2 only to drop them and the country in subsequent books? How about something going right once in a while? I understand the next book continues in this vein, and is duller besides. I fervently hope when book 7 arrives the author has done some course correcting - there is so much potential in this series!
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
stacye cotton
The earlier books in this series roughly follow historical events, albeit with dragons adding an extra dimension to the battles. There are some deviances from history, but they tend to be fairly minor. The blurb for this one, however, makes it clear that it deviates significantly from history, as Napoleon invades Britain.
I wasn't sure that I would enjoy this one, since I liked the close matching of history, but Empire of Ivory was left on a cliff-hanger, and I wanted to know what happened. I needn't have worried - the story is excellent, possibly the best in the series so far. It's exciting and well told, and the historical figures that appear (notably Arthur Wellesley, later Duke of Wellington) appear to be accurately portrayed.
The story easily warranted at least four, and probably five stars. I've only given it three because of the lack of editing and proof-reading in the Kindle edition. I noted in my review of Empire of Ivory that the standard of editing and proof-reading was not up to par, but I think it may have been even worse in Victory of Eagles.
Ms Novik's work deserves to be shown in a much better light than this. At least some of the errors are also present in the paperback edition.
I wasn't sure that I would enjoy this one, since I liked the close matching of history, but Empire of Ivory was left on a cliff-hanger, and I wanted to know what happened. I needn't have worried - the story is excellent, possibly the best in the series so far. It's exciting and well told, and the historical figures that appear (notably Arthur Wellesley, later Duke of Wellington) appear to be accurately portrayed.
The story easily warranted at least four, and probably five stars. I've only given it three because of the lack of editing and proof-reading in the Kindle edition. I noted in my review of Empire of Ivory that the standard of editing and proof-reading was not up to par, but I think it may have been even worse in Victory of Eagles.
Ms Novik's work deserves to be shown in a much better light than this. At least some of the errors are also present in the paperback edition.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
chynna
When last we left our heroes Captain William Laurence and his dragon Temeraire, things didn't look so good. Laurence and Temeraire decided to follow their conscience rather than orders, and must now face the consequences of that choice. They may yet find themselves in the field of battle, though, as Napoleon gains a foothold in England...
The draw of Naomi Novik's series is that it is historical fiction: dragons during the Napoleonic Wars. Throughout the series, she has portrayed different civilizations around the globe and how the inclusion of sentient, speaking dragons might have changed those civilizations. The battles were certainly exciting to read, but the cultural travels have always stood out as the most original part of the series.
In Victory of Eagles, we return to England. To keep things fresh, Temeraire and Laurence have been separated, and so for the first part of the book we actually have two storylines. This means that for the first time, we have parts narrated by Temeraire himself, a subtle but interesting change. The setting is also drastically changed, from open warfare to guerilla fighting (and if you're wondering how a 20-ton dragon can be a guerilla fighter, well, you'll just have to read the book).
There are a lot of dynamics at play to keep things interesting. Laurence is technically a traitor to England, but those closest to him know that he prevented the mass extinction of dragons. Laurence must figure out his own moral standing, since his actions did allow Napoleon to invade his homeland. Temeraire is still fighting the political battle to allow dragons more rights and respect in the government and community at large. And then there are plenty of battle scenes to raise the tension.
Victory of Eagles is another strong book in an already strong series. While it doesn't have the cultural exploring that the other books have, Victory of Eagles still tells an engaging and dramatic story.
The draw of Naomi Novik's series is that it is historical fiction: dragons during the Napoleonic Wars. Throughout the series, she has portrayed different civilizations around the globe and how the inclusion of sentient, speaking dragons might have changed those civilizations. The battles were certainly exciting to read, but the cultural travels have always stood out as the most original part of the series.
In Victory of Eagles, we return to England. To keep things fresh, Temeraire and Laurence have been separated, and so for the first part of the book we actually have two storylines. This means that for the first time, we have parts narrated by Temeraire himself, a subtle but interesting change. The setting is also drastically changed, from open warfare to guerilla fighting (and if you're wondering how a 20-ton dragon can be a guerilla fighter, well, you'll just have to read the book).
There are a lot of dynamics at play to keep things interesting. Laurence is technically a traitor to England, but those closest to him know that he prevented the mass extinction of dragons. Laurence must figure out his own moral standing, since his actions did allow Napoleon to invade his homeland. Temeraire is still fighting the political battle to allow dragons more rights and respect in the government and community at large. And then there are plenty of battle scenes to raise the tension.
Victory of Eagles is another strong book in an already strong series. While it doesn't have the cultural exploring that the other books have, Victory of Eagles still tells an engaging and dramatic story.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
amy discenza
Napoleon has invaded England. Using tactics recommended by his dragon-advisor, and providing dragons with far more rights than those enjoyed by English dragons, Napoleon demoralizes the English army, outmarches and outfights them, and forces them to flee to Scotland. Meanwhile, one of England's top officers has been condemned to death for treason for his part in bringing a cure to the disease that threatened to wipe out Europe's dragon population (and at the same time eliminate the threat of Napoleon's invasion). Without Captain Laurence, and his dragon Temeraire, England seems to have no hope.
Inspired by the example of Chinese dragons, Temeraire intends to have dragons recognized as people, with rights to pay, freedom, votes, and to make their own decisions. Napoleon's invasion gives Temeraire far more bargaining power than he'd held before--his corps of wild dragons and dragons retired to stud just might be strong enough to hold Napoleon's invading hordes off. Still, England dare never admit it made a mistake in condemning Laurence--indeed, by their own standards, they acted properly, although Laurence couldn't have made any other decision.
Author Naomi Novik continues her look at the Napoleonic Wars from viewpoint of a world with dragons. With Temeraire's help, the English do their best to turn England into a smaller, but still deadly version of Napoleon's long march back from Moscow, in the face of growing resistance and bitter cold. English control of the seas means that Napoleon cannot bring in food for his growing armies, and Temeraire's irregulars manage to make life miserable (and short) for Napoleon's foraging parties.
Novik manages to make Napoleon look pretty good. He's quick to adapt new tactics, even if these are suggested by others, he's open to granting dragons the kind of rights Temeraire has no hope of achieving through the English government, and he's honorable to his opponents. In contrast, the English attempt to introduce a plague that would largely destroy a continent's worth of sapient creatures, including those owned by her own allies, demand that Laurence save their cause with no thought that his doing so might commute his sentence, and continue to think of dragons as a kind of beast rather than as intelligent beings--ignoring all evidence to the contrary. Temeraire and Laurence are the protagonists, but I find myself pulling for Napoleon.
Inspired by the example of Chinese dragons, Temeraire intends to have dragons recognized as people, with rights to pay, freedom, votes, and to make their own decisions. Napoleon's invasion gives Temeraire far more bargaining power than he'd held before--his corps of wild dragons and dragons retired to stud just might be strong enough to hold Napoleon's invading hordes off. Still, England dare never admit it made a mistake in condemning Laurence--indeed, by their own standards, they acted properly, although Laurence couldn't have made any other decision.
Author Naomi Novik continues her look at the Napoleonic Wars from viewpoint of a world with dragons. With Temeraire's help, the English do their best to turn England into a smaller, but still deadly version of Napoleon's long march back from Moscow, in the face of growing resistance and bitter cold. English control of the seas means that Napoleon cannot bring in food for his growing armies, and Temeraire's irregulars manage to make life miserable (and short) for Napoleon's foraging parties.
Novik manages to make Napoleon look pretty good. He's quick to adapt new tactics, even if these are suggested by others, he's open to granting dragons the kind of rights Temeraire has no hope of achieving through the English government, and he's honorable to his opponents. In contrast, the English attempt to introduce a plague that would largely destroy a continent's worth of sapient creatures, including those owned by her own allies, demand that Laurence save their cause with no thought that his doing so might commute his sentence, and continue to think of dragons as a kind of beast rather than as intelligent beings--ignoring all evidence to the contrary. Temeraire and Laurence are the protagonists, but I find myself pulling for Napoleon.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
kamelya
I wanted to like this book so much. I loved the first three (and most of four); I read the advance chapter and I just about hung over the reserve librarian until my copy showed up.
But after reading VoE, I spent the rest of the weekend in a sizeable depression. Lawrence can't forgive himself, and I halfway felt he didn't forgive Temeraire for talking him into his treason. They're on their way to Australia on a convict ship (although carrying dragon eggs) and I can't imagine where Ms. Novik is going to take this series and keep up what she had done so well in the earlier books. Not to mention both Lawrence and Temeraire being cut by former crew and friends and Lawrence enduring another death that cuts quite close to home.
The good news is insight into dragon relations, Temeraire's joy at getting his Lawrence back (and organizing a dragon militia in the process). Missing are Volly and James and not much insight into Harcourt, Tom, Lily and only small parts for Maximus and Berkley.
All in all, this was not what I had been hoping for. Let's see what happens next.
p.s. Why is anyone surprised that Temeraire hasn't gotten an egg yet? I don't have a copy of "Throne of Jade" handy, but didn't they say that Celestials can't be bred?
But after reading VoE, I spent the rest of the weekend in a sizeable depression. Lawrence can't forgive himself, and I halfway felt he didn't forgive Temeraire for talking him into his treason. They're on their way to Australia on a convict ship (although carrying dragon eggs) and I can't imagine where Ms. Novik is going to take this series and keep up what she had done so well in the earlier books. Not to mention both Lawrence and Temeraire being cut by former crew and friends and Lawrence enduring another death that cuts quite close to home.
The good news is insight into dragon relations, Temeraire's joy at getting his Lawrence back (and organizing a dragon militia in the process). Missing are Volly and James and not much insight into Harcourt, Tom, Lily and only small parts for Maximus and Berkley.
All in all, this was not what I had been hoping for. Let's see what happens next.
p.s. Why is anyone surprised that Temeraire hasn't gotten an egg yet? I don't have a copy of "Throne of Jade" handy, but didn't they say that Celestials can't be bred?
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
ron van gemert
The first few books in the series were great, and volume four seemed to be a peak. This fifth installment is perhaps not as good, but still enjoyable and interesting. The war finally hits England, and Lawrence and Temeraire struggle through their own difficulties during the melee. We see a lot of the dragons here as Temeraire makes some headway with fighting for dragon rights, and the over-all story of the series moves on as the Napoleonic war swings right across Britain and back again.
Some of the reviews on the store are very negative, and I wish I could disagree with most of what they are saying. The story is not as strong as some of the other volumes, leaving it feeling a bit like an "inbetweener" novel. Fans of books 1-4 will still enjoy it, and it's a worthwhile read.
Some of the reviews on the store are very negative, and I wish I could disagree with most of what they are saying. The story is not as strong as some of the other volumes, leaving it feeling a bit like an "inbetweener" novel. Fans of books 1-4 will still enjoy it, and it's a worthwhile read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
evelyn
When last we left our heroes Captain William Laurence and his dragon Temeraire, things didn't look so good. Laurence and Temeraire decided to follow their conscience rather than orders, and must now face the consequences of that choice. They may yet find themselves in the field of battle, though, as Napoleon gains a foothold in England...
The draw of Naomi Novik's series is that it is historical fiction: dragons during the Napoleonic Wars. Throughout the series, she has portrayed different civilizations around the globe and how the inclusion of sentient, speaking dragons might have changed those civilizations. The battles were certainly exciting to read, but the cultural travels have always stood out as the most original part of the series.
In Victory of Eagles, we return to England. To keep things fresh, Temeraire and Laurence have been separated, and so for the first part of the book we actually have two storylines. This means that for the first time, we have parts narrated by Temeraire himself, a subtle but interesting change. The setting is also drastically changed, from open warfare to guerilla fighting (and if you're wondering how a 20-ton dragon can be a guerilla fighter, well, you'll just have to read the book).
There are a lot of dynamics at play to keep things interesting. Laurence is technically a traitor to England, but those closest to him know that he prevented the mass extinction of dragons. Laurence must figure out his own moral standing, since his actions did allow Napoleon to invade his homeland. Temeraire is still fighting the political battle to allow dragons more rights and respect in the government and community at large. And then there are plenty of battle scenes to raise the tension.
Victory of Eagles is another strong book in an already strong series. While it doesn't have the cultural exploring that the other books have, Victory of Eagles still tells an engaging and dramatic story.
The draw of Naomi Novik's series is that it is historical fiction: dragons during the Napoleonic Wars. Throughout the series, she has portrayed different civilizations around the globe and how the inclusion of sentient, speaking dragons might have changed those civilizations. The battles were certainly exciting to read, but the cultural travels have always stood out as the most original part of the series.
In Victory of Eagles, we return to England. To keep things fresh, Temeraire and Laurence have been separated, and so for the first part of the book we actually have two storylines. This means that for the first time, we have parts narrated by Temeraire himself, a subtle but interesting change. The setting is also drastically changed, from open warfare to guerilla fighting (and if you're wondering how a 20-ton dragon can be a guerilla fighter, well, you'll just have to read the book).
There are a lot of dynamics at play to keep things interesting. Laurence is technically a traitor to England, but those closest to him know that he prevented the mass extinction of dragons. Laurence must figure out his own moral standing, since his actions did allow Napoleon to invade his homeland. Temeraire is still fighting the political battle to allow dragons more rights and respect in the government and community at large. And then there are plenty of battle scenes to raise the tension.
Victory of Eagles is another strong book in an already strong series. While it doesn't have the cultural exploring that the other books have, Victory of Eagles still tells an engaging and dramatic story.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ben howard
Napoleon has invaded England. Using tactics recommended by his dragon-advisor, and providing dragons with far more rights than those enjoyed by English dragons, Napoleon demoralizes the English army, outmarches and outfights them, and forces them to flee to Scotland. Meanwhile, one of England's top officers has been condemned to death for treason for his part in bringing a cure to the disease that threatened to wipe out Europe's dragon population (and at the same time eliminate the threat of Napoleon's invasion). Without Captain Laurence, and his dragon Temeraire, England seems to have no hope.
Inspired by the example of Chinese dragons, Temeraire intends to have dragons recognized as people, with rights to pay, freedom, votes, and to make their own decisions. Napoleon's invasion gives Temeraire far more bargaining power than he'd held before--his corps of wild dragons and dragons retired to stud just might be strong enough to hold Napoleon's invading hordes off. Still, England dare never admit it made a mistake in condemning Laurence--indeed, by their own standards, they acted properly, although Laurence couldn't have made any other decision.
Author Naomi Novik continues her look at the Napoleonic Wars from viewpoint of a world with dragons. With Temeraire's help, the English do their best to turn England into a smaller, but still deadly version of Napoleon's long march back from Moscow, in the face of growing resistance and bitter cold. English control of the seas means that Napoleon cannot bring in food for his growing armies, and Temeraire's irregulars manage to make life miserable (and short) for Napoleon's foraging parties.
Novik manages to make Napoleon look pretty good. He's quick to adapt new tactics, even if these are suggested by others, he's open to granting dragons the kind of rights Temeraire has no hope of achieving through the English government, and he's honorable to his opponents. In contrast, the English attempt to introduce a plague that would largely destroy a continent's worth of sapient creatures, including those owned by her own allies, demand that Laurence save their cause with no thought that his doing so might commute his sentence, and continue to think of dragons as a kind of beast rather than as intelligent beings--ignoring all evidence to the contrary. Temeraire and Laurence are the protagonists, but I find myself pulling for Napoleon.
Inspired by the example of Chinese dragons, Temeraire intends to have dragons recognized as people, with rights to pay, freedom, votes, and to make their own decisions. Napoleon's invasion gives Temeraire far more bargaining power than he'd held before--his corps of wild dragons and dragons retired to stud just might be strong enough to hold Napoleon's invading hordes off. Still, England dare never admit it made a mistake in condemning Laurence--indeed, by their own standards, they acted properly, although Laurence couldn't have made any other decision.
Author Naomi Novik continues her look at the Napoleonic Wars from viewpoint of a world with dragons. With Temeraire's help, the English do their best to turn England into a smaller, but still deadly version of Napoleon's long march back from Moscow, in the face of growing resistance and bitter cold. English control of the seas means that Napoleon cannot bring in food for his growing armies, and Temeraire's irregulars manage to make life miserable (and short) for Napoleon's foraging parties.
Novik manages to make Napoleon look pretty good. He's quick to adapt new tactics, even if these are suggested by others, he's open to granting dragons the kind of rights Temeraire has no hope of achieving through the English government, and he's honorable to his opponents. In contrast, the English attempt to introduce a plague that would largely destroy a continent's worth of sapient creatures, including those owned by her own allies, demand that Laurence save their cause with no thought that his doing so might commute his sentence, and continue to think of dragons as a kind of beast rather than as intelligent beings--ignoring all evidence to the contrary. Temeraire and Laurence are the protagonists, but I find myself pulling for Napoleon.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
sheryl calmes
I wanted to like this book so much. I loved the first three (and most of four); I read the advance chapter and I just about hung over the reserve librarian until my copy showed up.
But after reading VoE, I spent the rest of the weekend in a sizeable depression. Lawrence can't forgive himself, and I halfway felt he didn't forgive Temeraire for talking him into his treason. They're on their way to Australia on a convict ship (although carrying dragon eggs) and I can't imagine where Ms. Novik is going to take this series and keep up what she had done so well in the earlier books. Not to mention both Lawrence and Temeraire being cut by former crew and friends and Lawrence enduring another death that cuts quite close to home.
The good news is insight into dragon relations, Temeraire's joy at getting his Lawrence back (and organizing a dragon militia in the process). Missing are Volly and James and not much insight into Harcourt, Tom, Lily and only small parts for Maximus and Berkley.
All in all, this was not what I had been hoping for. Let's see what happens next.
p.s. Why is anyone surprised that Temeraire hasn't gotten an egg yet? I don't have a copy of "Throne of Jade" handy, but didn't they say that Celestials can't be bred?
But after reading VoE, I spent the rest of the weekend in a sizeable depression. Lawrence can't forgive himself, and I halfway felt he didn't forgive Temeraire for talking him into his treason. They're on their way to Australia on a convict ship (although carrying dragon eggs) and I can't imagine where Ms. Novik is going to take this series and keep up what she had done so well in the earlier books. Not to mention both Lawrence and Temeraire being cut by former crew and friends and Lawrence enduring another death that cuts quite close to home.
The good news is insight into dragon relations, Temeraire's joy at getting his Lawrence back (and organizing a dragon militia in the process). Missing are Volly and James and not much insight into Harcourt, Tom, Lily and only small parts for Maximus and Berkley.
All in all, this was not what I had been hoping for. Let's see what happens next.
p.s. Why is anyone surprised that Temeraire hasn't gotten an egg yet? I don't have a copy of "Throne of Jade" handy, but didn't they say that Celestials can't be bred?
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
tracie
The first few books in the series were great, and volume four seemed to be a peak. This fifth installment is perhaps not as good, but still enjoyable and interesting. The war finally hits England, and Lawrence and Temeraire struggle through their own difficulties during the melee. We see a lot of the dragons here as Temeraire makes some headway with fighting for dragon rights, and the over-all story of the series moves on as the Napoleonic war swings right across Britain and back again.
Some of the reviews on the store are very negative, and I wish I could disagree with most of what they are saying. The story is not as strong as some of the other volumes, leaving it feeling a bit like an "inbetweener" novel. Fans of books 1-4 will still enjoy it, and it's a worthwhile read.
Some of the reviews on the store are very negative, and I wish I could disagree with most of what they are saying. The story is not as strong as some of the other volumes, leaving it feeling a bit like an "inbetweener" novel. Fans of books 1-4 will still enjoy it, and it's a worthwhile read.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
wingnutmagnet
At about chapter 5 the narrators are switched out. I find this upsetting because I enjoy listening to Simon Vance. I don't know who takes over but it sounds nothing like Simon while reading "between characters". I do love this book & I would gladly give it a 5 star rating if there wasn't this switching out of narrators. I will give this other narrator credit, he does the voices very closely to Simon Vance's so if the character voices are your main concern, rest assured, they stay very very similar to the originals.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
linda bella
I kind of figured by now there would be one novel in the series that I didn't think was fantastic, but so far each one has kept me mesmerized the entire time. I've not gotten tired of this series in the least. This novel especially upped the action and the danger. Even though it was sad, I'm glad we got to see some of the destruction Napoleon caused.
This one had a fair bit of angst coming from Laurence, which I'm sure some people thought was a bit tedious, however, I think it helped show how damaging it is to follow one's heart while under such authority.
I loved the new dragons especially the dragon Persita. The whole breeding grounds was interesting to finally see. And I loved being able to see things from Temeraire's perspective without Laurence even there.
The main duo of Laurence and Temeraire keep me intrigued throughout it all -- just wanting to know what happens to them next.
I would totally recommend it to anyone! I'll definitely be reading the next one, though I'm kind of sad to know it's the last one that's out right now.
This one had a fair bit of angst coming from Laurence, which I'm sure some people thought was a bit tedious, however, I think it helped show how damaging it is to follow one's heart while under such authority.
I loved the new dragons especially the dragon Persita. The whole breeding grounds was interesting to finally see. And I loved being able to see things from Temeraire's perspective without Laurence even there.
The main duo of Laurence and Temeraire keep me intrigued throughout it all -- just wanting to know what happens to them next.
I would totally recommend it to anyone! I'll definitely be reading the next one, though I'm kind of sad to know it's the last one that's out right now.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
bron
Naomi Novik's Temeraire series - a Napoleonic war alternate history in which the Aerial Corps is composed of dragons - started off with a bang, had a few ups and downs, and came roaring back with a vengence in the fifth book of the series, Victory of Eagles.
The novel picks up where fourth book Empire of Ivory leaves off: our hero, Captain Will Lawrence, has been condemned as a traitor, and his extraordinary dragon Temeraire exiled to a remote breeding grounds. But as Napoleon lands on British shores, the two must find each other again and come to their country's defense, facing not only dangerous battles but deadly politics.
The first reason to love this book is the action, which never lets up and will keep you turning pages long after bedtime. But Victory of Eagles is so much more - it provides more insight than ever before into Temeraire's mind (and the minds of other dragons), and you can see him struggling to understand why humans act the way they do and realizing just what Lawrence has sacrificed for their relationship. My only critique, as others here have noted, is that the British seem so incompetent and so backward thinking you sometimes wonder why the dragons (and even Lawrence) remain loyal!
The novel picks up where fourth book Empire of Ivory leaves off: our hero, Captain Will Lawrence, has been condemned as a traitor, and his extraordinary dragon Temeraire exiled to a remote breeding grounds. But as Napoleon lands on British shores, the two must find each other again and come to their country's defense, facing not only dangerous battles but deadly politics.
The first reason to love this book is the action, which never lets up and will keep you turning pages long after bedtime. But Victory of Eagles is so much more - it provides more insight than ever before into Temeraire's mind (and the minds of other dragons), and you can see him struggling to understand why humans act the way they do and realizing just what Lawrence has sacrificed for their relationship. My only critique, as others here have noted, is that the British seem so incompetent and so backward thinking you sometimes wonder why the dragons (and even Lawrence) remain loyal!
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
celine y
Novik never quite recaptures the characterizations and emotional appeal that catapulted her first two books, and her, to stardom. Victory of Eagles was better IMHO than the last book that's for sure. But still, Novik seems to have lost the connection that made us fall in love with Laurence and Temeraire in the first place. Beloved characters are merely mentioned, not included in plots. Relationships are sacrificed. Is she trying to be Patrick O'Brien or Naomi Novik? I was tired at the end of the book and felt like I needed a nap. We barely get further along in Laurence and Temeraire's saga. I feel like I've just read a short story in a collection. The first book brought tears to my eyes. The second kept me enraptured. Thereafter the characterizations have deteriorated to the point where I keep reading in hope only of a return to the emotion found in books 1&2.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
shahrzad kolahdooz
Caution: Spoilers hidden within.
Reading Naomi Novik's Temeraire series is like eating a big Thanksgiving feast: no matter how slowly you try to take it, you can't help but gulp it all down in one go, and then all you want to do is lay very still and absorb.
I've been a fan of the series since a customer recommended them to me a couple summers ago. I think the ideas are wonderfully fresh, the writing captivating, and the story rich. I enjoyed this book more than I've enjoyed almost any other in a long time.
That being said, I did not like this one as much as the others.
But! Complements first!
I really enjoyed getting into Temeraire's head and also starting to understand how the dragons think. We get to see so much more of their thoughts in this one; it's fascinating. What's also interesting is how different a dragon's idea of the world is from a human's.
Making the emotions of the characters tangible to the reader is one of Novik's strongest skills. Laurence's depression comes through so clearly that I had to put the book down at the end of the second part and walk away for an hour. The feeling that there is no resolution, no way to repair what's been done, is almost too much much to take; I don't know how Laurence managed it. And when Temeraire thought Laurence was dead, I wanted to cry, his pain came through so clearly (see especially page 76).
As always, the battle scenes were so intense I held my breath for most of them (a mistake, since holding one's breath for twenty some pages makes it difficult to continue reading after a while). The sheer brutality of this war - death, destruction, loss, dishonorable tactics - comes through more clearly in this book than in the others.
I enjoyed seeing some of Temeraire's original crew, too. I quite miss having Granby around and Hollin was a great character. Tharkay plays a surprisingly significant role, which was exciting in its own way - not that this fast-paced book needs any more excitement!
Now, for a little, tiny bit of criticism...
Some of the things I so enjoy about this book are also among the reasons I don't like it as well as the others.
For one, the tone of the story is so grim at parts that it becomes painful to read. It seems Temeraire and Laurence might never be completely happy again; and that's a hard feeling to transfer to the reader.
As enjoyable as it is to gain insight on Temeraire's way of thinking, it also makes the story hard to follow in places. I understand why she wrote it that way, since he and Laurence are separated for the beginning of the book, but I prefer the story more focused around Laurence.
I feel she added too many new dragon characters. While some are interesting and give some life to the dragons beyond those we already know, it also becomes hard to keep track of who is who. And we get to see less of our old favorites, Maximus, Lily, Volly, and Celeritas, to name a few.
I also disliked the ending. There really seems to be no resolution for Laurence. He's not going to forgive himself for his treason, and his country isn't either. His relationship with Jane appears to be over, many of his crew won't even look at him, and he's dishonored his family. Now he's headed for Australia. How is he going to make it right? (And, more importantly, how is Novik going to make it right?)
But I really did enjoy the book, despite it's faults. I have high hopes for the next. I don't know what's in Australia, but Novik does. And I'd like to know a few things: why hasn't Temeraire sired an egg? What's happening in Australia? Will Temeraire and Lien EVER have a final showdown?
And how is Britain getting rid of Napoleon?
Victory of Eagles (Temeraire, Book 5)
Reading Naomi Novik's Temeraire series is like eating a big Thanksgiving feast: no matter how slowly you try to take it, you can't help but gulp it all down in one go, and then all you want to do is lay very still and absorb.
I've been a fan of the series since a customer recommended them to me a couple summers ago. I think the ideas are wonderfully fresh, the writing captivating, and the story rich. I enjoyed this book more than I've enjoyed almost any other in a long time.
That being said, I did not like this one as much as the others.
But! Complements first!
I really enjoyed getting into Temeraire's head and also starting to understand how the dragons think. We get to see so much more of their thoughts in this one; it's fascinating. What's also interesting is how different a dragon's idea of the world is from a human's.
Making the emotions of the characters tangible to the reader is one of Novik's strongest skills. Laurence's depression comes through so clearly that I had to put the book down at the end of the second part and walk away for an hour. The feeling that there is no resolution, no way to repair what's been done, is almost too much much to take; I don't know how Laurence managed it. And when Temeraire thought Laurence was dead, I wanted to cry, his pain came through so clearly (see especially page 76).
As always, the battle scenes were so intense I held my breath for most of them (a mistake, since holding one's breath for twenty some pages makes it difficult to continue reading after a while). The sheer brutality of this war - death, destruction, loss, dishonorable tactics - comes through more clearly in this book than in the others.
I enjoyed seeing some of Temeraire's original crew, too. I quite miss having Granby around and Hollin was a great character. Tharkay plays a surprisingly significant role, which was exciting in its own way - not that this fast-paced book needs any more excitement!
Now, for a little, tiny bit of criticism...
Some of the things I so enjoy about this book are also among the reasons I don't like it as well as the others.
For one, the tone of the story is so grim at parts that it becomes painful to read. It seems Temeraire and Laurence might never be completely happy again; and that's a hard feeling to transfer to the reader.
As enjoyable as it is to gain insight on Temeraire's way of thinking, it also makes the story hard to follow in places. I understand why she wrote it that way, since he and Laurence are separated for the beginning of the book, but I prefer the story more focused around Laurence.
I feel she added too many new dragon characters. While some are interesting and give some life to the dragons beyond those we already know, it also becomes hard to keep track of who is who. And we get to see less of our old favorites, Maximus, Lily, Volly, and Celeritas, to name a few.
I also disliked the ending. There really seems to be no resolution for Laurence. He's not going to forgive himself for his treason, and his country isn't either. His relationship with Jane appears to be over, many of his crew won't even look at him, and he's dishonored his family. Now he's headed for Australia. How is he going to make it right? (And, more importantly, how is Novik going to make it right?)
But I really did enjoy the book, despite it's faults. I have high hopes for the next. I don't know what's in Australia, but Novik does. And I'd like to know a few things: why hasn't Temeraire sired an egg? What's happening in Australia? Will Temeraire and Lien EVER have a final showdown?
And how is Britain getting rid of Napoleon?
Victory of Eagles (Temeraire, Book 5)
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
scott pfister
Grimmer than the average in this series,but no sign of series droop. Series does Napoleonic war times with addition of dragon air forces. Dragons are sentient but only China and Incan Empires have integrated them into their cultures.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
carolyn steigleman
My opinion on the book? It is very good, action packed, nicely written, fulled of emotional and realistic characters, humans and dragons alike.
The book focused upon the battle over London between British and the Napoleon's force. Napoleon, with council of Lien, the Chinese' white Celestial Dragon, has brought the war into another level of ferocity. While Temeraire, sadden by the news of his rider's death, rally the unharnessed and wild dragons against the invader, proclaiming himself the first British regiment led by a dragon commander.
But by personal thought? I read, and I feel tired. The British, in the story, have practically been saved by Temeraire and his powerful influent, for more than a few times. Yet what does he got? He keep getting shipped off to a land far-away, into more fights and wilderness. Never once get what he deserve.
His newly elected's first dragon pavilion laid abandoned, overtook by the so-called government.
Time and time again he has been shipped off in time of peace, and hastily called back when there's a war to be had that no one could win. And he would manage to win it, only to be shipped off again, for whatever reasons the writer could think of.
I say I cannot take much more of these. The British would have fallen a few times over without him, and yet they would condemn him still. And then they will come crawling back on their knee for his service again when no one else could protect them. And both he and his captain, Laurance, are too royal for their own good, especially his captain. Fallow rules to the end, even when it is non-sense whatsoever.
That doesn't count the event of the Book 4. If you have read, you would have known what happened with the virus. The British government's single order would have condemn the dragons race as a whole to collapse, the world over. Condemning to death an entire race, just so only they can have them by themselves. I see the act no better than Hitler, if not much worse. And Hitler only condemn to death a single country. But said British government...
I simply don't see how could the dragons stand it. A mutiny would have been expected if I had any say.
Selfish, very selfish. And with no honor whatsoever. On the British's side.
Napoleon at least take care of his own dragons. While the British's government only reluctantly agreed on Temeraire's request because of their desperate need of his service.
It is a bit too much, for me. The next book will be my last, if the trend still goes on like this.
The book focused upon the battle over London between British and the Napoleon's force. Napoleon, with council of Lien, the Chinese' white Celestial Dragon, has brought the war into another level of ferocity. While Temeraire, sadden by the news of his rider's death, rally the unharnessed and wild dragons against the invader, proclaiming himself the first British regiment led by a dragon commander.
But by personal thought? I read, and I feel tired. The British, in the story, have practically been saved by Temeraire and his powerful influent, for more than a few times. Yet what does he got? He keep getting shipped off to a land far-away, into more fights and wilderness. Never once get what he deserve.
His newly elected's first dragon pavilion laid abandoned, overtook by the so-called government.
Time and time again he has been shipped off in time of peace, and hastily called back when there's a war to be had that no one could win. And he would manage to win it, only to be shipped off again, for whatever reasons the writer could think of.
I say I cannot take much more of these. The British would have fallen a few times over without him, and yet they would condemn him still. And then they will come crawling back on their knee for his service again when no one else could protect them. And both he and his captain, Laurance, are too royal for their own good, especially his captain. Fallow rules to the end, even when it is non-sense whatsoever.
That doesn't count the event of the Book 4. If you have read, you would have known what happened with the virus. The British government's single order would have condemn the dragons race as a whole to collapse, the world over. Condemning to death an entire race, just so only they can have them by themselves. I see the act no better than Hitler, if not much worse. And Hitler only condemn to death a single country. But said British government...
I simply don't see how could the dragons stand it. A mutiny would have been expected if I had any say.
Selfish, very selfish. And with no honor whatsoever. On the British's side.
Napoleon at least take care of his own dragons. While the British's government only reluctantly agreed on Temeraire's request because of their desperate need of his service.
It is a bit too much, for me. The next book will be my last, if the trend still goes on like this.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jamila gomez
A little history with great swooping dragons intwined ....who could ask for more. Naomi Novik is indeed a fine author that with her words color a world and your imagination.......have read all in this series and looking forward to reading the newest one "Blood Tyrant".
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
melisa
[...]
It was a great, fast read. As others have said, well paced. It only picks up the ball directly from the return of Laurence and Tremaire to England, nothing about the more significant geopolitical events from Empire of Ivory is more than tangentially mentioned. I suspect this is at the point in which world-building gets to be much more of a challenge for Naomi Novik, but we aren't *that* far through the Napoleonic conflicts so the series itself is not going to be running out of steam soon.
It was a great, fast read. As others have said, well paced. It only picks up the ball directly from the return of Laurence and Tremaire to England, nothing about the more significant geopolitical events from Empire of Ivory is more than tangentially mentioned. I suspect this is at the point in which world-building gets to be much more of a challenge for Naomi Novik, but we aren't *that* far through the Napoleonic conflicts so the series itself is not going to be running out of steam soon.
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
seema devgan
Sigh. After the rip-roaring ending to the last novel in the series, this one comes as a severe disappointment. (Minor spoilers follow.)
If you, like me, were expecting this book to start with some excruciating emotional torture (while watching Laurence being manhandled, locked up, and condemned to death for treason, etc. etc.), you'll know you're in trouble from the first paragraph. The most compelling part of what-happens-next was simply left out, and into this emotional vacuum strides a rather limp and depressed Laurence, along with a preoccupied Temeraire. Neither of them does anything compelling thereafter.
Yes, Laurence has reason to be depressed. He also has reason to be incandescently angry: his country wants to murder him for having prevented the near annihilation of a sentient species. I expected more in the way of spine from him, I suppose, not the total capitulation we get at the end of act two. His character has lost his spirit, the relationship between Laurence and Temeraire has settled into a rut, and I was so uninterested in the whole thing by the end of the book that I only finished reading it out of habit.
I hope the next one's better.
If you, like me, were expecting this book to start with some excruciating emotional torture (while watching Laurence being manhandled, locked up, and condemned to death for treason, etc. etc.), you'll know you're in trouble from the first paragraph. The most compelling part of what-happens-next was simply left out, and into this emotional vacuum strides a rather limp and depressed Laurence, along with a preoccupied Temeraire. Neither of them does anything compelling thereafter.
Yes, Laurence has reason to be depressed. He also has reason to be incandescently angry: his country wants to murder him for having prevented the near annihilation of a sentient species. I expected more in the way of spine from him, I suppose, not the total capitulation we get at the end of act two. His character has lost his spirit, the relationship between Laurence and Temeraire has settled into a rut, and I was so uninterested in the whole thing by the end of the book that I only finished reading it out of habit.
I hope the next one's better.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
karis
Victory of Eagles (Temeraire book 5) continues a very satisfying experience. I have a great love of the Napoleonic era of Wooden Ships and Iron Men as well as the great struggles of Europe during that period. Naomi Novaik manages to weave historical details into her fun romp through a world that included Dragons. The Dragon's perspective on human affairs is enlightening and sometimes very humerous. :)Thanks for the fun Naomi.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
cassidy frazee
I love this series, and I love this addition to it.
But somehow, for me, this book felt quite disjointed in comparison to the last ones - I won't go into details about the plot (which itself was everything I could have hoped), and regardless, it was the execution that bothered me.
From odd changes in perspective to the myriad of spelling, grammatical and punctuation errors (I have never seen so many in a published work previously), I have to wonder whether Ms Novik or the publisher fired their copyeditor. The errors just served to jar me out of an otherwise gripping story.
I hope this is corrected in the paperback version, but as it stands, the print quality of the UK hardback is appalling.
But somehow, for me, this book felt quite disjointed in comparison to the last ones - I won't go into details about the plot (which itself was everything I could have hoped), and regardless, it was the execution that bothered me.
From odd changes in perspective to the myriad of spelling, grammatical and punctuation errors (I have never seen so many in a published work previously), I have to wonder whether Ms Novik or the publisher fired their copyeditor. The errors just served to jar me out of an otherwise gripping story.
I hope this is corrected in the paperback version, but as it stands, the print quality of the UK hardback is appalling.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kamila
I really enjoyed this book, as I have enjoyed every book in this series. I was pleased that the book did not dwell on Lawrence's public humiliation (although clearly showing us his remorse and better understanding of all the ramifications of his actions - Temeraire, although evolving, still lacks a good understanding of the diffused and devastating effect one action can trigger). The invasion of England was also interestin alternate history, and the evolution of the dragon militia fascinating. Can't wait to see where the series goes from here; I wish Novik wrote faster!
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
margaret blasi
I was so excited about this book, I rushed out to buy it the day it came out. Sure, Empire of Ivory wasn't the best in the series, but it was still fun and interesting and best of all, hard to put down so I was 100% sure this would be the same.
WRONG! I almost quit reading when every other page had Laurence feeling guilty over his part in saving the dragons of the world from germ warfare by the British Government.
Laurence moped around like a geisha with big feet feeling sorry for himself pretty much the entire book, ugh. I'm not sure if this can be fixed in the next book. I will give the next one a try, but frankly my hopes aren't high.
WRONG! I almost quit reading when every other page had Laurence feeling guilty over his part in saving the dragons of the world from germ warfare by the British Government.
Laurence moped around like a geisha with big feet feeling sorry for himself pretty much the entire book, ugh. I'm not sure if this can be fixed in the next book. I will give the next one a try, but frankly my hopes aren't high.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
gracie
I don't mean to exaggerate but this is my favourite in the series, at least after the enchantment of the first. The bond between Temeraire and Lawrence is sweet and deep, the stakes high, the settings and characters vivid. Certainly don't stop the series after a few arguably just-OK books that came before. This one makes it worthwhile to persist. That said, if you skip ahead to this one, you won't feel lost.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
elmira
If you are a fan of the Temeraire series then this is a must have. But I must say that it is not the best in the series. Things move a little fast, and while I understand the necessity of some chapters following Temeraire's point of view I can't say that I liked the change.
If you are new to the series, go buy His Majesty's Dragon and entry a very unique historical fiction world, with just a splash of fantasy.
If you are new to the series, go buy His Majesty's Dragon and entry a very unique historical fiction world, with just a splash of fantasy.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
mzsaladik
Things that are good about this book is that it is better than the last in the series. Things that are bad is I just don't think Novik gets the period. There are a great deal about the attention to detail of Napoleonic England, which of course if Georgian England that Novik doesn't understand.
She seems to have an Austenian wish, or to make her series more Austen then the fantasy world based on the wars. Austen, despite having brothers who served in the Navy and became admirals there, kept the war far from her books.
You wouldn't even know it was going on, even in Persuasion. So we go to the world of Temeraire and the entire war is turned upside down. Just not believable.
I could understand if all the battles that happened in the war, happened in her alternate universe with just the addition of dragons, but if dragons have been used for years, the course of the history of the planet would have changed prior to this war. There should not even have been a mad king George and Napoleon. And why do we need to see each? Wow.
Our hero is certainly someone who sees both of these, even with a sentence of death over his head. So what we are saying is that the story suffers from an absurdity in the plot. It also suffers from the use of language, where Novik tries hard to force her thoughts on how WWJD, or rather what would Jane write instead of do.
There are other great fallacies in the series, such as China being satisfied with its lot in life. China has never been satisfied with its lot in life. How nobles of the period respond to each other. There are a great many research pieces on the period, rather than thinking again WWJD.
Stay with this book to complete your reading of the series, but if you have not started the series, there are much better pictures of the Napoleonic Wars, even if they don't have a sentient sometimes 2 year old, and sometimes teenage dragon.
She seems to have an Austenian wish, or to make her series more Austen then the fantasy world based on the wars. Austen, despite having brothers who served in the Navy and became admirals there, kept the war far from her books.
You wouldn't even know it was going on, even in Persuasion. So we go to the world of Temeraire and the entire war is turned upside down. Just not believable.
I could understand if all the battles that happened in the war, happened in her alternate universe with just the addition of dragons, but if dragons have been used for years, the course of the history of the planet would have changed prior to this war. There should not even have been a mad king George and Napoleon. And why do we need to see each? Wow.
Our hero is certainly someone who sees both of these, even with a sentence of death over his head. So what we are saying is that the story suffers from an absurdity in the plot. It also suffers from the use of language, where Novik tries hard to force her thoughts on how WWJD, or rather what would Jane write instead of do.
There are other great fallacies in the series, such as China being satisfied with its lot in life. China has never been satisfied with its lot in life. How nobles of the period respond to each other. There are a great many research pieces on the period, rather than thinking again WWJD.
Stay with this book to complete your reading of the series, but if you have not started the series, there are much better pictures of the Napoleonic Wars, even if they don't have a sentient sometimes 2 year old, and sometimes teenage dragon.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
selzzi
I kind of figured by now there would be one novel in the series that I didn't think was fantastic, but so far each one has kept me mesmerized the entire time. I've not gotten tired of this series in the least. This novel especially upped the action and the danger. Even though it was sad, I'm glad we got to see some of the destruction Napoleon caused.
This one had a fair bit of angst coming from Laurence, which I'm sure some people thought was a bit tedious, however, I think it helped show how damaging it is to follow one's heart while under such authority.
I loved the new dragons especially the dragon Persita. The whole breeding grounds was interesting to finally see. And I loved being able to see things from Temeraire's perspective without Laurence even there.
The main duo of Laurence and Temeraire keep me intrigued throughout it all -- just wanting to know what happens to them next.
I would totally recommend it to anyone! I'll definitely be reading the next one, though I'm kind of sad to know it's the last one that's out right now.
This one had a fair bit of angst coming from Laurence, which I'm sure some people thought was a bit tedious, however, I think it helped show how damaging it is to follow one's heart while under such authority.
I loved the new dragons especially the dragon Persita. The whole breeding grounds was interesting to finally see. And I loved being able to see things from Temeraire's perspective without Laurence even there.
The main duo of Laurence and Temeraire keep me intrigued throughout it all -- just wanting to know what happens to them next.
I would totally recommend it to anyone! I'll definitely be reading the next one, though I'm kind of sad to know it's the last one that's out right now.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
stacy hiemstra
These books have been so much fun to read and enjoy. I recommend them not only because that are well written but they also draw you into the world of Temeraire. To be quite honest i was sad for the book to end, and was completely enthralled in this series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
mandy beckner
This read really set the next story line up! I can't wait for Ms. Novik to write the next book in the series to see how Laurence and Temeraire stir up the penal colony in Australia!!!Throne of Jade (Temeraire)
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
patty baldwin
I have read the whole series but this is one of the best books. With its engaging battle sequences and dual story it keeps the reader involved in ways that the 4th book failed to do. You will not be disappointed.
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
tracey klees
This series was a fun read, but now it is simply getting too muddled. There are too many contradictions in key areas:
1 - Laurence bringing the cure to France (from the previous book, but the setup for this book): this was made so melodramatic, if it had to be a spur of the moment decision by Laurence. As Jane even points out in this book, there were so many other ways to take care of this. For instance, let the French dragons get sick, and then hold France hostage and force a surrender from Napoleon, then give the dragons the cure. Its not as though Napoleon is trying to kill you and wipe out your dragons, oh wait, yes he is. L and T's actions save a hundred or so dragons (who didn't have to die anyway) and let the war continue, and cost the lives of tens of thousands of British commoners and troops and dragons. That is treason and Laurence should have been shot on the spot.
Nevertheless, I waited for the paperback edition to see if Naomi could pull out a better story in V of E. Well she did not, in fact she continues:
2 - Temeraire is fighting, but does not use the divine wind - ???? He uses it once and kills a dragon with it. All these people and dragons dying, why not use this weapon if T is so eager to fight??? What better way to learn and be able to handle this weapon. The fire dragon uses her flame on other dragons, the ground, etc
3 - T fights dragons but rarely seems to kill them? Yet sometimes he does? Are they fighting a war or not? He often yells coward at the retreating, injured dragons, wow what a dumb animal. These dragons are coming back and killing T's dragons, friends, British soldiers, ships etc what is his (Naomi's) problem with using the weapons he has.
4 - Tactics and inconsistent results- Naomi needs to consult a war historian/tacticion: the british suck and the french have great tactics (apparently). Supposedly these groups have had dragons for at least a couple of hundred years, yet they do not know how to use them. It was a revelation in a previous book to use the dragons to ferry a bunch of soldiers, but really something that simple took a chinese dragon to introduce after all those years? Lets look at how this works: the French are moving their forces, and cannons etc in some leapfrog fashion (as painfully explained during the book) throughout the day. Yet when T and the other dragons try this sort of stuff for the British, they become tired very quickly. Well, so when the French march like this, why not simply attack them at the end of the day when the dragons are tired. Further the brits have acid throwing dragons - well, that is simple, simply fly over the French and spit acid down - it is going to go through everything including French dragons - opps, Naomi didn't think of that when she created those dragons. This is similar to the scene at the start of the book when the French dragons are shooting harpoons at the ships????? Really??? Sounds cool, but this means the dragons are coming within easy firing range and would suffer massive casualities from musket fire from the ships, or from attacks from British dragons. Naomi tries to justify this, but then, the french bring their rafts of soldiers across, without any British dragons being able to attack???? How come French dragons can get through ground fire etc, but British dragons can't? Which would be harder to attack for a dragon? A British gun ship or a French raft? Why not send an acid spitting dragon up against Napoleon's ships that are bottled up by the British Navy. Unfortunately, I could go on and on. I am not trying to nitpick, and this is fiction, but it would be nice to see some consistency. Another reviewer said something similar: it is hard to feel sorry for people that are so stupid (the brits).
5 - For some reason it seems bad that L and T and other dragons are going and killing the foragers from Nappy's army. This disgrace is heaped on top of the treason L has already committed. I don't get this at all, especially the way that Naomi describes it: the French have gone in to the first village and killed peasants to get food for the army and dragons, suddenly L and T feel justified to kill the French foragers. But then she waffles back on that and L,T and all the othere dragons and officers don't want to do this any more as somehow it is dishonorable. Wrecking supply lines has always been an important part of warfare, where is the dishonor in that. Were the peasants killed righteously by the French foragers? Why this reluctance to kill French men and dragons - they brought this war to your country - kill them - end of story. Napoleon certainly has no qualms about killing brits or their dragons.
5 - the battle scene at the end with the ships shooting cannon balls at all of the dragons. How far does Naomi think these cannon balls can fly? These are not modern day battleships and munitions. These are cannonballs with limited height and range. Can't the French dragons fly a bit higher?
6 - escape of Napoleon and Tien - really again, like someone else said, this sounds like a comic book. Tien killed Nelson and 14!!!! ships. None of the dragons, or the divine wind can be used against Napoleon's tent? A small dragon goes in and captures the captain from one dragon. Can't another one go in and pluck out Napoleon? After all they have just overwhelmed the french dragons. Tien is tired, why does Temeraire not go after her. Use the divine wind on her? She is being supported by two other dragons. How fast are the 3 of them flying? As fast as unencumbered, and unharnessed British dragons? Wasn't it in an earlier book where T was supporting some injured dragon and as a result they were flying very slowly.
Its too bad, Naomi has a good imagination to have developed this world. And it has some great potential. However, she has not pulled it off in this book and she needs to consult some experts to make her army tactics 'realistic'. The book has a very predictable rise and fall to the rhythmn and nothing good seems to happen to L and T. They should go back to China where L is a Prince and T is revered! I certainly am not left with any sympathetic feeling for Laurence's honor toward England. Especially because it is always causing massive problems for T.
1 - Laurence bringing the cure to France (from the previous book, but the setup for this book): this was made so melodramatic, if it had to be a spur of the moment decision by Laurence. As Jane even points out in this book, there were so many other ways to take care of this. For instance, let the French dragons get sick, and then hold France hostage and force a surrender from Napoleon, then give the dragons the cure. Its not as though Napoleon is trying to kill you and wipe out your dragons, oh wait, yes he is. L and T's actions save a hundred or so dragons (who didn't have to die anyway) and let the war continue, and cost the lives of tens of thousands of British commoners and troops and dragons. That is treason and Laurence should have been shot on the spot.
Nevertheless, I waited for the paperback edition to see if Naomi could pull out a better story in V of E. Well she did not, in fact she continues:
2 - Temeraire is fighting, but does not use the divine wind - ???? He uses it once and kills a dragon with it. All these people and dragons dying, why not use this weapon if T is so eager to fight??? What better way to learn and be able to handle this weapon. The fire dragon uses her flame on other dragons, the ground, etc
3 - T fights dragons but rarely seems to kill them? Yet sometimes he does? Are they fighting a war or not? He often yells coward at the retreating, injured dragons, wow what a dumb animal. These dragons are coming back and killing T's dragons, friends, British soldiers, ships etc what is his (Naomi's) problem with using the weapons he has.
4 - Tactics and inconsistent results- Naomi needs to consult a war historian/tacticion: the british suck and the french have great tactics (apparently). Supposedly these groups have had dragons for at least a couple of hundred years, yet they do not know how to use them. It was a revelation in a previous book to use the dragons to ferry a bunch of soldiers, but really something that simple took a chinese dragon to introduce after all those years? Lets look at how this works: the French are moving their forces, and cannons etc in some leapfrog fashion (as painfully explained during the book) throughout the day. Yet when T and the other dragons try this sort of stuff for the British, they become tired very quickly. Well, so when the French march like this, why not simply attack them at the end of the day when the dragons are tired. Further the brits have acid throwing dragons - well, that is simple, simply fly over the French and spit acid down - it is going to go through everything including French dragons - opps, Naomi didn't think of that when she created those dragons. This is similar to the scene at the start of the book when the French dragons are shooting harpoons at the ships????? Really??? Sounds cool, but this means the dragons are coming within easy firing range and would suffer massive casualities from musket fire from the ships, or from attacks from British dragons. Naomi tries to justify this, but then, the french bring their rafts of soldiers across, without any British dragons being able to attack???? How come French dragons can get through ground fire etc, but British dragons can't? Which would be harder to attack for a dragon? A British gun ship or a French raft? Why not send an acid spitting dragon up against Napoleon's ships that are bottled up by the British Navy. Unfortunately, I could go on and on. I am not trying to nitpick, and this is fiction, but it would be nice to see some consistency. Another reviewer said something similar: it is hard to feel sorry for people that are so stupid (the brits).
5 - For some reason it seems bad that L and T and other dragons are going and killing the foragers from Nappy's army. This disgrace is heaped on top of the treason L has already committed. I don't get this at all, especially the way that Naomi describes it: the French have gone in to the first village and killed peasants to get food for the army and dragons, suddenly L and T feel justified to kill the French foragers. But then she waffles back on that and L,T and all the othere dragons and officers don't want to do this any more as somehow it is dishonorable. Wrecking supply lines has always been an important part of warfare, where is the dishonor in that. Were the peasants killed righteously by the French foragers? Why this reluctance to kill French men and dragons - they brought this war to your country - kill them - end of story. Napoleon certainly has no qualms about killing brits or their dragons.
5 - the battle scene at the end with the ships shooting cannon balls at all of the dragons. How far does Naomi think these cannon balls can fly? These are not modern day battleships and munitions. These are cannonballs with limited height and range. Can't the French dragons fly a bit higher?
6 - escape of Napoleon and Tien - really again, like someone else said, this sounds like a comic book. Tien killed Nelson and 14!!!! ships. None of the dragons, or the divine wind can be used against Napoleon's tent? A small dragon goes in and captures the captain from one dragon. Can't another one go in and pluck out Napoleon? After all they have just overwhelmed the french dragons. Tien is tired, why does Temeraire not go after her. Use the divine wind on her? She is being supported by two other dragons. How fast are the 3 of them flying? As fast as unencumbered, and unharnessed British dragons? Wasn't it in an earlier book where T was supporting some injured dragon and as a result they were flying very slowly.
Its too bad, Naomi has a good imagination to have developed this world. And it has some great potential. However, she has not pulled it off in this book and she needs to consult some experts to make her army tactics 'realistic'. The book has a very predictable rise and fall to the rhythmn and nothing good seems to happen to L and T. They should go back to China where L is a Prince and T is revered! I certainly am not left with any sympathetic feeling for Laurence's honor toward England. Especially because it is always causing massive problems for T.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
karen gwidt
Temeraire and Laurence fight for England. Temeraire thinking Laurence had died goes on to persuade his fellow dragons from the breading grounds to fight for their territory. A good read I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I have.
Please RateVictory of Eagles (Temeraire)