Balanced introductions to the British Empire

What is a reasonably balanced introductory book on the British Empire?

Nicholas Rodger's Royal Navy history is the main recommendation. Other suggestions include popular histories of British invasions and relations with France, though some are based on incomplete reading or favorable reports.

Nicholas Rodger's Royal Navy history is recommended for its coverage of the British Empire and its willingness to discuss both good and bad aspects alongside their causes. Other participants suggest popular histories of Britain's invasions and relations with France. One explicitly says they have not yet finished the invasion book, and another response is based on having heard favorable reports. Those qualifications distinguish a direct recommendation from an incomplete reading or a secondhand impression.