As a continuation of the YA steampunk/alternate history/fantasy series that I had previously enjoyed this continued the high standards of previous books. It had been a while since I had left the third book, however unlike my recent experiences with the larger Obernewtyn books I found that the characters and world returned to me rapidly. Whether that was an indication of the ease with which these novels incorporate their readers or the story telling ability of the writer I will not argue. All I know is that personally these are smart, fun, YA novels full of inventive imagination.
I recommend anyone interested start at the beginning of the series. The books are fast reads enabling readers to catch up to speed quickly and they are full of little bursts of adrenaline. Michael Pryor has packed nearly every possible element into these novels. You have romance, politics, royalty, battles, magic, science fiction steampunk elements, alternate history and characters you care about. The villain for the series could be considered somewhat cliché but I do believe that he makes an original and memorable enemy. The beauty of his design is that he does not appear to be a vile monster but rather a distinguished gentleman one step ahead of the game. Think a master sorcerer who is part Moriarty, part President Snow, part warmongering Hitler, part Ra's al-Ghul and all his own villain.
I fully recommend this series starting with Blaze of Glory. Then see how you like it and take it from there.