I think this is basically everything that I want from an advernture-type SF series. Tight plotting, good pace, a great turn of phrase, emotionally affecting character moments and a satisfying ending. Boom - Done. There's even some decent thematic exploration of moral relativism, class and prejudice in there. This is intelligent thoughtful, rigorous, SF pulp (with no intention of negative connotations to "pulp"). I didn't absolutely adore this book (both Miller and Holden are a tad beige as protagonists for me), but it's great fun.