A disgraced archaeologist embarks on a perilous expedition to a lost city in the past to reclaim her reputation and discover the truth about a legendary artifact. Dr. Meriwether is driven by the desire to redeem herself after a past failure, but her mission is fraught with danger. She must navigate the treacherous jungles of a technologically advanced, yet anachronistic, China, facing both natural hazards and the machims of a rival expedition. The narrative unfolds through Meriwether's first-person perspective, detailing her scientific observations and personal struggles.

The novel is celebrated for its imaginative world-building, blending historical settings with steampunk elements to create a unique and engaging narrative. Readers often praise the intricate details of the alternate 19th-century China and the compelling protagonist, Dr. Meriwether, whose personal struggles and scientific curiosity drive the plot. The story is frequently highlighted for its adventurous spirit and its thoughtful exploration of themes such as scientific ethics and the impact of colonialism. Critical reception generally points to its success as a piece of inventive speculative fiction that offers both excitement and intellectual depth.