This novel is one dominated by endlessly complex and interesting characters who all interact in a beautifully realistic system. Despite often just being the day-to-day operations of a corporation, the plot never feels dry and I never felt bored. While I rarely felt a deep need to pick up the book, or read on and on, I never felt dissatisfied by the novel. Clavell has built a world so infinitely fascinating with as much depth as one could ever hope for, and I can’t wait to read more of his novels in the future. This was a significant step up from Shōgun and I am glad to have read it.