Interesting concept marred by some uneven writing, especially in description and exposition. The descriptions of the aerial battles are wonderful (and kudos for thinking in 3-D instead of just doing regular ship battles but in the air), while descriptions and explanations of the spires and life on them is lacking. I loved the characters but had trouble connecting to the society. By about 2/3 of the way through the book, I was ready to be done with it so I could move on to something else. I haven't yet fully decided whether I'll read the next one, but it's at least not a priority.