This early novel by Asimov is a fun bit, with the right amount of plots and counterplots. The characters are pretty flat, and the reveal subplot doesn't fit at all - the author agreed, and considers this his worst novel. If this is the worst he wrote, then he is truly one of the masters.

The plot loosely fits within the Foundation empire - but it seems doubtful that Asimov was planning for all this when he wrote it. Probably better to say that the elements were kicking around and this doesn't fit too badly. I thought the idea of "ruling families" was a bit like warlords, or for that matter the big ranches in old westerns.

Bonus - first appearance of the Visi-Sonor and the Neuronic Whip.

Will probably read the other two early Asimov novels soon. 2½ stars.