"Publishers Weekly" said that Aubrey is caught in a net of Turkish politics and rivalries. First, "there is little excitement as HMS "Worcester" settles in with the other blockading ships, some with crews showing signs of strain from remaining constantly alert but inactive." "Harte dispatches Aubrey on a delicate mission to the politically volatile Ionian coast." There he navigates the complex politics, though "Aubrey knows that should he fail, the admiral would like nothing better than to throw him to the dogs."