I can hardly wait for the next installment in this series - like the first two books, Black Powder War advances the overall arc of the alternate history of the Napoleonic wars while carrying it's own complete and fascinating storyline of the aerial dragon corps, the relationships between the men and dragons and the military and civilian governments of the times. Just breathtaking.

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I have found this series of books interesting because the language that is used is closer to that used in the classic literature of the English at that time (Napoleonic Wars) than I am used to seeing in books and stories about dragons. I've enjoyed seeing different usages of words and phrases than I've seen since college English courses. It really has helped me regain some of my former wider vocabulary, and it fits the stories of the times being written about. I do have to say that this book was a slower read due to the demands of describing war tactics that might have been used by the English, Prussians, French, Germans, and Russians had they had dragons at their disposal to use in warfare at the time. Nonetheless, it was enjoyable, and I particularly liked the ending of this book.

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I am really enjoying this well-written alternate history series. Characterization is good. Events in the alternate reality where dragons are used in warfare are believable. Recommend.

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Book 3!! Read the first 2 first. Very fascinating alternate history!

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Love these dragon books!

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The Prussian campaign was depressing! The author portrayed this dismal period so well that readers like me may well have felt that they, too, were fighting Lien and Napoleon Bonaparte, losing battle after battle. Now instead of continuing to fight, Laurence and Temeraire, receive orders telling them of the purchase of three valuable dragon eggs from the Ottoman Empire. They must cease fighting to escort the eggs to England before the hatching, not do easy task. Taken prisoner when they arrive, they eventually escape with the eggs. On the way home they once again are immersed in the war with Napoleon.

It's a long tale with many battles and considerable traveling. One comes away thinking that Laurence has begun to fit the stereotype of the stuffy and stoic Englishman while Temeraire represents a sulky teenager. Tharkay, an unpredictable, swaggering character chooses his own way yet comes through for the duo when he is most needed. Iskierka adds humor and life to the tale when she hatches, chooses her own name and always, yes always, wants to go into battle. Never mind that she must grow up first! Add Grandby, Laurence's second in command and the making of the adventure team is complete.

Great story. Complex plot. Wonderful characters. All combine with skill and love so readers can travel the world to enjoy. One can only hope that the next in the series is just as much fun.

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A new take on dragon/ people bonding. Fun to read.

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Considering the first two books of Novik's series were astoundingly amazing, this one falls a bit short. I read it quickly to fulfill me desire for plot continuity, but afterward I wasn't as satisfied as I had been with Jade Empire. It seemed to skip around with no defined course, but it was still worthwhile ^_^

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