WHOOO!
Mike KILLED this one. BattleTech has long been known as a universe where politics will getcha killed just as faster - or faster! - than enemy Mechs. Mike nailed that vibe, while also, finally, bringing resolution to the FS/DC front of the war.
Just a HELLUVA good read, well done!
(remember, SPOILER tags, this novel is only a few weeks old!)