Here you will find brief comments on the works that I read from beginning to end in 2001. The most recently read works appear at the top of this file. Novels read in the year 2000 may be found here.
Marcellas, Diana ~ Mother Ocean, Daughter Sea ~ TOR, 2001 ~ trade hard cover ~ 416 pages ~ adults, teens
Thus begins Mother Ocean, Daughter Sea, the first volume in a new three volume story. While this can be read independently, the story is certainly not complete when this volume ends.
Many years ago, the land belonged to the Shari'a people. Then the Allemanii arrived from far away in the Western Sea. Eventually, the Allemanii drove the Shari'a inland, and after considerable conflict attempted to kill all that remained. Many of the Shari'a practiced witch craft and some used it against the Allemanii. No shari'a have been found in many years, but they are still feared and certain death awaits them if found.
Brierley Mefell is a healer who is well regarded in Yarvannet. She is also a Shari'a witch who uses her powers to heal. In bringing the wife of the Earl back from almost certain death, she reveals her powers and finds herself in the castle dungeon.In any trial, death is certain.
The Earl takes her to the Capital for what he hopes will be an honest trial and one that will free Brierley. The evil Duke Tejar is plotting her torture and death as well as ways to eliminate the Earl.Brierley discovers that she is stronger than she believed as she fights to survive and hopes to find other shari'a. At the same time, Earl Melfallan will do what he can to save Brierley and eventually eliminate the Duke. Clearly, this will take many more pages.
Marcellas writes well. The descriptive passages are often evocative if somewhat long. There is considerable thoughtful pondering by Brierley and this helps to develop her character and solidify the setting. It also slows things down. The plot is reasonably complex and holds the reader's interest. There is enough action to keep things moving, but not a great deal. Brierley is well developed, and other characters are satisfactory.
Cover art by Tristan Elwell shows Brierley on a rock surrounded by the sea. This accurately portrays her and a major setting. This picture is framed by a wonderful border featuring the four dragons eventually revealed in the story (Brierley is associated with the sea dragon). Paper, ink, and white space are above average. Type is of avaerage size. Binding is adequate. The book is easily read. A well drawn map appears in the front matter.
Le Guin, Ursula K. ~ The Other Wind ~ Harcourt, 2001 ~ trade hard cover ~ 246 pages ~ adults, teens
Given their popularity and standing, there is little need to review the work. This may be the final Earthsea story since it concludes an important thread first seen in A Wizard of Earthsea.
Alder is a minor sorcerer whose special ability is mending. Now, his wife, who died young, returns to him in dreams that are increasingly real and demanding. His wife calls for him to go to the Dry Lands where the souls of the Earthsea dead go. Alder fears that the barrier between the Dry Lands and Earth sea will break. He seeks help from Ged, once Archmage but now living an isolated life in the country. Ged sends him to Havnor where Ged's wife Tenar, his daughter Tehanu, and the young King may be able to help. Besides, the impending disaster from the Dry Lands, dragons have attacked in the West and the King has not weapon to oppose them.
Only in the Immanent Grove on Roke, the isle of the Earthsea magicians, can Alder, Tenar, Tehanu, and King Lebannen find the answers to these forces that threaten the survival of Earthsea. The dragon Irian, born a woman, and the High Princess of Kargad will also go on this quest and each will play an important role.
Le Guin writes simply and clearly. She is a master story teller. The plot is reasonably complex and solutions are not at all apparent until the end. Characters are well developed and hold the reader's attention. Descriptive passages are especially good.
Cover art by Cliff Nielsen shows a barely visible dragon on the wind. This represents a major theme in the story. Paper, ink, and white space are above average. Type is larger than usual. Binding is adequate. The book is easily read. A well drawn colored map of Earthsea appears in the front matter.
McGarry, Terry~ Illumination ~ TOR, 2001 ~ trade hard cover ~ 494 pages ~ adults, some teens
Thus begins Illumination, a first novel which may be the beginning of a series or may stand alone. There is no hint of a sequel, but the ending would certainly allow one.
The land of Eiden Myr, evidently the only place where magic is practiced on this world, has been shielded to protect those who practice magic from those who detest it. Thus, Eiden Myr has become a world to itself. Magic is practiced by groups of three: an illuminator, a wordsmith, and a bindsmith. This triad creates a magical manuscript that results in a magical act. There is no writing or illustration as we know it. Except for the magical use of manuscripts, this is an oral society.
The daughter of a tavern owner, Liath has considerable magical potential and will become an illuminator and become part of a triad. However, due to a personal situation revealed much later in the story, Liath discovers that she has lost her ability to do the magical illumination. Desperate to regain the magic that means so much to her, she faces a difficult journey to the capital where she asks the Ennead, the ruling triads, for help. They say that her magical skill will be restored if she can find the Dark Mage who threatens the land. Liath then begins a quest to find the Dark Mage. Along the way, she has various adventures and we learn more about the geography and culture of Eiden Myr. Liath finds companions who will protect her and help her to understand what is true and what is not. When she finds the Dark Mage, he is not at all what she expected.
Both major and minor characters are engaging. Liath is a particularly interesting heroine, but her stubbornness in the face of overwhelming evidence seemed unrealistic to me. Evil characters are dramatically evil. I did not care for the vividly portrayed pain magic that plays a central role in the story, but find it reasonable given the plot. There is enough violence and anticipation--where is the Dark Mage and what is he doing?--to keep the pages turning. The plot is somewhat complicated, but not difficult to understand. World building is realistic and the nature of magic and how the magicians work is especially well drawn.
Cover art by Gary Ruddell represents a triad casting a spell. While representative of the magic in the work, the scene itself seems false to the story line. Paper, ink, and white space. Binding is adequate. The book is easily read. A well drawn map of Eiden Myr shows regions, but more place names would help the reader to follow Liath's journey.
LeGuin, Ursula K. ~ Tales From Earthsea ~ Harcourt, 2001 ~ trade hard cover ~ 296 pages ~ adults, teens
Thus begins Tales From Earthsea which is follows the four Earthsea novels. Here are five tales which add to our understanding of Earthsea. While the tales may be read without reference to the novels, especially with the fine "Description of Earthsea" in the back matter, those who have read the novels will have a better experience. The tales range from 106 to 20 pages with most about 30 pages.
LeGuin is a most accomplished writer. Text flows smoothly and logically with some powerful descriptive passages. Character development is another notable accomplishment. The stories themselves have more in common with myth and legend since they fit so well into the fabric of Earthsea. While there is certainly magic, these stories are far removed from contemporary heroic fiction. Yes, this is fantasy; it is also a rich comment on the human condition.
Cover art is photographic and did not appeal to me. I also felt that it did not represent the tales. However, the cover does show an individual surrounded by the sea. "LeGuin" is in very large type indicating author visibility and appeal. Paper, ink, white space and binding are above average. The book is easily read. The end paper map is most attractive. The "Description of Earthsea" in the back matter was most helpful to this reader and to anyone interested in the series.
McArthur, Maxine ~ Time Future ~ ASPECT, 2001 ~ mass market paper ~ 445 pages ~ adults, some teens
Thus begins Time Future. A sequel, Time Past involving Commander Halley will appear in spring 2002.
The Confederacy deep space station Jocasta is in a desperate situation. It has been attacked and is now surrounded by the Seouras and the Confederacy of Allied Worlds does not seem to care. Supplies are running low and crucial systems are failing. Commander Halley, station commander, and many of those in station administration are from Earth, but the four major alien races control the Confederacy. They also appear to be involved in activities which threaten the station. There is also an unusual murder, an almost impossible to defeat alien warrior (but were they not extinct?), and a ship from Earth that left many, many years ago and suddenly appeared on the station's side of the blockade. Why has Jocasta Station become a focus for all these events? What are the Invidi up to?
This is a gritty, usually bleak study of people under pressure. Stories by C. J. Cherryh come to mind. There are enough unanswered questions to keep the reader guessing and wondering. This is a mystery story within a SF setting. Who was the killer? How did the killer get to the station and why?
The novel contains two strong stories. First is the story of survival on the space station. Second is the mystery surrounding the murder and whether or not the murderer can be defeated. Less important, but still crucial is the story of the space ship from Earth and why it is so important to others. All come together at the end in a satisfying conclusion.
Halley is the only character who is fully developed. Other characters receive enough attention to be interesting and to fill roles that are easy to understand. Aliens and their societies are convincingly described. There is enough action, but this is primarily a novel about a place. Earth as a very junior member of a confederacy is a familiar theme, but McArthur handles it very well. The plot is complex and the likely outcome is not at all clear. Commander Halley is obviously competent, but she is tired and not at all invincible.
Cover art by Jim Burns accurately portrays Jocasta Station and the Earth ship. Paper, ink, and white space are average. Binding is satisfactory.
Lindskold, Jane ~ Through Wolf's Eyes ~ TOR, 2001 ~ trade hard cover ~ 594 pages ~ adults, some teens
Thus begins Through Wolf's Eyes which I assume is the first volume in a series. While no series title is mentioned in the book, fore-shadowing within the story suggests that there is much more to come. While the story does have a somewhat satisfactory ending, major characters would seem to have just begun their adventure.
Firekeeper has been raised by wolves after her settlement was destroyed by fire. However, these are not ordinary wolves and Firekeeper can communicate with them as well as some other animals.
King Tedric of Hawk Haven is failing and he has no heirs. Earl Kestrel has put together an expedition to locate survivors of the long lost group taken by Prince Barden over the Iron Mountains. What they find is Firekeeper and the Earl assumes that she is Barden's daughter and thus heir to the throne. Raised by wolves, Firebringer has much to learn about human behavior, but she is bright, quick, and physically tough. She is also accompanied by Blind Seer, a thoughtful and unusually large wolf as well as a peregrine falcon the size of an eagle.
The novel contains three interlinked stories. First is the story of Firebringer's interaction with civilization. Second is the story of all the infighting related to who might succeed the King. Third is the story of a war between Hawk Haven and Stonehold caused by a traitor close to the throne. All come together seamlessly.
Both major and minor characters are nicely developed. Readers will care about Firekeeper, Darien Carter, Doc, and others. There is only one thoroughly evil character, but there are more that we soon come to dislike. There is enough action to appeal to the adventure-seeking reader. Analysis of society and culture will appeal to others. The plot is a complex one and not all of it is revealed here. Clearly, Firebringer has a major role to play in a larger world. World building is well done and the "Royal" animals also appeal. Some magic is visible, and more seems likely in the future.
Cover art by Julie Bell accurately portrays Firebringer and Blind Seer with the King in the background. The front matter includes an excellent map and there is a glossary of characters in the back matter. Paper, ink, and white space are average. The book is well designed. Binding is satisfactory.
Irvine, Ian ~ A Shadow On the Glass ~ Aspect Fantasy, 2001 ~ mass market paper ~ 654 pages ~ adults, some teens
Thus begins A Shadow on the Glass, the first volume of a four volume series titled "The View From the Mirror." Volumes 2 and 3 will appear in the U.S. in 2002 and volume 4 in 2003. Unhappily, this volume does not come to any reasonable close, but simply stops in mid-stride. I found this frustrating.
There were three worlds--Aachan, Tallallame, and Santhenar--with human species (similar, but different). People from a fourth world, the Charon had taken over Aachan. Links between the worlds brought the Aachim, Faellem, and Charon to Santhenar. Through the "Forbidding," the world links are no more. Still, the Aachim and the Faellem will do anything to be able to return to their home world. The Mirror of Aachan may allow that.
Karan of Gothryme owes a debt to the magician Maigrath and finds herself on a mission with Maigrath to steal the mirror from Lord Yggur of Fiz Gorgo. Things go awry and Karan, mirror in hand, finds herself chased by the inhuman Whelm and others eager to have the mirror. Nearly all of the story revolves around the relentless chase of Karen who narrowly escapes great harm again and again. The story is a dark one. There are few moments of joy or happiness. Karen is the unhappy victim of forces beyond her control and it seems unlikely that she will survive. During most of these adventures, she is accompanied by Master Llian of the Zain, a brillant young historian of the great tales and quite a tale teller. Llian is not, however, much of an adventurer. The story fails to answer two obvious questions: (1) Will Karan survive? (2) Who will get the Mirror? For those who will wait, perhaps these questions will be answered in following volumes.
The world building is complex and Llian's histories provide a persuasive way to introduce the complex history of Santhenar into the story. The plot certainly engages, but becomes tiresome as Karan encounters one nearly impossible situation after another. Main characters represent important story elements, but are not well developed except for Karan and Llian. Again, we may learn more later. Karan is a strong character, and one that we really care about. However, I wish that she was able to do more than barely survive in scene after scene. There is enough action to keep the pages turning.
Clear, helpful author prepared maps are in the front matter and a substantial glossary of characters, names, and places appears in the back matter. Type size, printing, white space, and binding are average. The cover illustration by Mark Sofilas is nicely done and shows an approach to the hidden Aachim city of Shazmak. While the illustration covers front, spine, and back, type obscures the back portion.
Lustbader, Eric Van ~ The Ring of the Five Dragons ~ TOR, 2001 ~ trade hard cover ~ 572 pages ~ adults, some teens
Thus begins Ring of the Five Dragons which is the first volume in a series called "The Pearl." Although clearly the beginning of a multi volume work, the first volume does close with a somewhat reasonable conclusion. Lustbader is a well-known author of popular fiction, although it has bit quite some time since he has written a fantasy novel. Here he has combined elements from both science fiction and heroic fantasy.
The V'ornn, with their superior technology have conquered the Kundalans and ground them under heel. The Kundalans have a strong religion with effective sorcery, but they feel abandoned by the Goddess Miina. The religious institution which should be their bulwark has fallen into the hands of those who no longer believe and seek only power.
While there are many characters, the story begins with two pairs. Giyan and Bartta are twins. Both have the ability to create powerful spells, but Bartta is turned to the dark side. Giyan is captured by the V'ornn and becomes mistress to a powerful leader. Her son is Annon, but he does not know that. Annon's best friend is the V'ornn Kurgan who will play an important if evil role as the story unfolds. His father destroys Annon's family and becomes the most powerful civil authority on the occupied areas of the planet. Giyan and Annon escape. Eventually, Annon will merge with the girl Riane and become the Dar Sala-at, the hero who will save Kundalans. The Grygon, the V'ornn techmages, have set in a motion a disaster that will destroy the entire planet. Only the Dar Sala-at can prevent this. Annon-Riane will experience many difficult moments in trying to stay alive and learn the magical skills necessary to do what needs to be done.
Characters are engaging. Evil characters are quite evil. There is enough violence and threatened violence to keep the pages turning. The plot is complex, but not too difficult to understand. World building is well done and the two societies--one technological and the other spiritual and magical (but with that almost lost) contrast in interesting ways. Besides the mythological characters present here, there clearly are threats and opportunities off planet likely to appear in later volumes.
Cover art by Keith Parkinson accurately represents characters from the book in an appealing way. Unhappily, the important back cover art is largely hidden with blurbs for previous work by the author. Paper, ink, and white space. Binding is poor. The library copy I read is already broken at the spine in two places. The book is easily read. There is a clear, helpful map in the front matter.
Kress, Nancy ~ Probability Sun ~ TOR, 2001 ~ trade hardcover ~ 348 pages ~ adults, some teens
Thus begins Probability Sun which is a sequel to Probability Moon. Although clearly a sequel, the second volume can easily be read independently. Nancy Kress has authored at least one dozen novels and her work has been well received by critics. This is very much a novel about science, although the scientific parts can easily be skipped by those less interested. It is also a novel about difficult choices, dealing with the greater good, and how to adjust to a truly dramatic cultural change.
A scientist from Earth has convinced the Alliance Command that an unusual artifact on the planet known as World may well be the weapon so desperately needed to defeat the alien Fallers. Since the Fallers have a new defensive weapon that appears to make them immune from attack, this is intriguing to the AC. Colonel Lyle Kaufman is in charge of the scientific team sent to investigate the artifact and bring it to Earth if it appears to be useful as a weapon. But the World is a proscribed planet and the last visitors from Earth had substantial problems with the natives. Dr. Thomas Capelo is recruited much against his will to be the lead scientist and he is most difficult to deal with. Marbet Grant is a genemod sensitive and her task will be to gain information from the only Faller ever captured alive. Her approach will challenge Lyle greatly in a number of ways.
Besides the considerable scientific speculation about the nature of the artifact and its powers, there is considerable interplay between the mission and the native culture on World, but especially between Capelo and others. He is arrogant and difficult, but he may be the only one to find the answer to save human kind. Kaufman must handle all of those on the scientific side as well as the by the book naval commander of the space ship. It is a difficult task and may result in ruining his military career. There is little action, but there is a reasonable amount of suspense. Characters tend to be stereotypical, and I never felt close to them. Capelo is the most stereotypical. Marbet and Kaufman had considerable potential. The native Enli might also have been further developed.
Cover art by Bob Eggleton does not represent a scene from the book, but it is bright and clearly indicates the genre. "Nancy Kress" in very large type surely indicates an established author. Paper, ink, white space and binding are average. The book is easily read. There are no special features.
"The rain was without beginning and without end. It pattered on incessantly, a drumming of impatient fingers."
Thus begins the Ill-Made Mute. This is first of a trilogy with volume 2 to be issued in 2002 and volume 3 in 2003. Here, "bitterbynde" is a charge given to a person, even before they are born, to perform a certain task. That charge may be an ordinary one, to marry someone, or extraordinary and involve magical or supernatural situations. Here, the unknown charge is laid about the ill-made mute.
Imrhien was found nameless, without memory, mute, and with a terribly disfigured face when young. After suffering from ill treatment, she escapes from Isse Tower by stowing away on a Windship. Several adventures follow as she makes her way in the world and finds at least a few friends who will accept her as she is. Imrhien hopes to recover her memory, her face, and find a place in the world.
Her journey across Eldaraigne provides the author with an opportunity to describe an unusual world. Civilization is in some decay. Humans share the world with many non-human creatures, often taken from Celtic folklore and myth. Many of these creatures will harm humans if they can and rural areas are especially dangerous. In the East, on the island of Namarre, someone or something is calling evil creatures for what appears to be a major attack upon humanity. Attacks against humans increase throughout the world and threaten Imrhien and her companions.
This is a quest story and a plucky young heroine story. The notable Celtic folklore element will appeal and makes this heroic fantasy world different from most. Descriptive passages are frequent and are well done. Sometimes the style and approach remind one of Tolkien. Language is rich and not always straight-forward. The Dainnan Ranger Thorn reminds one of Strider in the LOTR.The story is well told and well written. Imrhien is a wonderful character and her situation is different enough to be absorbing. World building is good with some interesting touches like the Stormriders and their towers as well as the Windships.
This may be a major fantasy work. However, the fact that the reader must wait two more years to see what happens is a frustration. Major characters are well developed. The plot flows logically. There is adequate action and tension about what will happen next.
The cover art by Daniel Craig shows Imrhien alone in a dark and threatening forest. It is true to the spirit of the work. A map helps the reader to understand the geography involved in the quest. The back matter lists some phrases and translations and a few sources useful in creating the folklore characters. Type is dark enough and average in size for this edition; it is easily read. White space is about average and see-through is about average.
"My mother knew every tale that was ever told by the firesides of Erin, and more besides. Folks stood hushed around the hearth to hear her tell them after a long day's work, and marveled at the bright tapestries she wove with her words."
Thus begins Son of the Shadows. This is the second volume in the trilogy which began with Daughter of the Forest. The first volume was the story of six brothers turned into swans and finally rescued by their sister Sorcha after many trials. Sorcha, her British husband Hugh, and some of her brothers have returned to Sevenwaters and rebuilt the family home and properties after bad use by an evil sorcercess.
This is the story of Liadan, Sorcha's younger daughter. She, like her mother will be taken away from home and family and endure trials and tribulations. At the same time, this is a family story with her brother and sister playing important roles along with her uncles, her father, and her mother.
Liaden, a healer like her mother, is taken by fierce mercenaries to heal a wounded comrade. Her life will never be the same. She will learn to love a man who has closed himself off from feelings of love and trust. He is also a man hated and despised by family and friends.
Throughout, Irish mythology and legend is an integral part of the story and told in a natural, appealing way. Ancient forces are at work. The Fair Folk want Liaden to follow their instructions. The Old Ones may give her the support that she urgently needs. The evil sorceress who bewitched Sorcha's father is alive and is plotting.
There is enough action to keep the pages turning, but this is really a novel about place and character. Marillier does a wonderful job of creating notable characters. I did feel that there were times when Liaden might have been more anxious and less poised. She has unusual maturity for her age and experience. Still, she is a character that we really care about even if she is sometimes too perfect. The world building is first-rate and the settings are described with clear, illuminating language. The plot is complex enough to engage, but remains reasonable and persuasive. This is a wonderful story and there should be considerable demand for the final volume which should focus on Liaden's son.
The cover art by John Palencar, in a style similar to that of Daughter of the Forest, shows Liaden with her raven in a boggy setting. I believe that her eyes should be green, but otherwise this is quite well done. A map would help the reader to understand the geography involved in the story. The front matter contains some helpful introduction to Irish terms. Type is dark enough and average in size for this edition; it is easily read. White space is about average and see-through is about average.
"There was a razorstorm coming in. Sylveste stood on the edge of the excavation and wondered if any of his labours would survive the night."
Thus begins Revelation Space. This could be a stand alone SF novel, but more likely it is the beginning of a series since the ending only partially wraps up the threads developed by the author.
There are three major threads to the story. Sylveste is attempting to learn via digs on their home planet why and how the Amarantin race were destroyed. Somehow, he feels, that this answer is of supreme importance for human kind. It may answer the question of why so few intelligent races have been found in space. Volyova is one of three who command the lighthugger Nostalgia for Infinity. The captain is barely alive after being attacked by a plague virus and many areas of the ship are degraded. She must protect the ship as well as herself from the other crew members [cyborgs] on the ship. Her gunner attempted to kill her after going mad and there is something dreadfully wrong in gunnery systems. Sylveste may be able to save the captain and the ship is looking for him. Khouri, ex military, is a professional killer. She will be hired to kill Sylveste. Khouri will also be the new gunner on the Nostalgia.
This is a complex and sophisticated story. Will we learn why the bird-like Amarantin were destroyed? Will Khouri kill Sylveste before he can save the captain? Can Sylveste save the captain? What is in the gunnery system on the ship and what does it want? Why would Khouri's employer destroy an entire planet just to kill Sylveste?
Reynolds has a Ph.D in astronomy so I will assume that the science here is reasonably accurate. More to the point, he writes very well. This is science fiction, but it all comes together in a wonderfully engaging story. The world building is first-rate, the characters are fresh and always interesting if not always likeable. There is enough action to keep the pages turning, but much of the appeal of the story is in the thoughtful and often fresh descriptions of unusual but wholly believable situations and artifacts.
The cover art by Chris Moore is excellent and clearly indicates the spirit of the work. Type is somewhat small but dark enough to be read without much difficulty. White space and see-through are about average.
"The summer I was fourteen, my uncle Jaxon took me with him on an expedition to hunt for aliora. I had only seen the fey, delicate creatures in captivity, and then only when I was visiting Castle Auburn."
Thus begins Summers At Castle Auburn. This appears to be a stand alone fantasy novel and is somewhat different from her earlier work. Except for the aliora, there is no magic or sorcery. There is also little sword play or other action. This is a coming of age novel told by engaging heroine. Except for the fictional setting, this might be medieval historical fiction or a historical romance. Since the story is told by a teen, this should have considerable appeal for female teen readers.
Corie is the illegitimate child of a now dead noble. She lives with her grandmother, who is a "wise woman" or herbal healer in a small cottage in a small rural village. Her Uncle Jaxon Halsing insures that she spends her summers at Auburn Castle, where Prince Bryan will become king, when he is 21, and marry Corie's half sister the beautiful Elisandra. Corie lives like a noble lady in the summer, but she never forgets that she is base born. Corie is also independent and stubborn; she doesn't want to be married off--like Elisandra--for the good of the kingdom.
Bryan is a rat and Elisandra is likely to face many unhappy days after her marriage. The leaders of the eight provinces are unlikely to be happy with a King Bryan. The novel tells us about court life in some detail and that seems accurate. We also see and appreciate the relationships between Corie and Elisandra and Kent who is Bryan's cousin and next in line for the throne. The aliora play an important role in Corie's transition to an independent, thoughtful adult. There is also a bit of mystery at the end and an unexpected, at least for this reader, conclusion.
Shinn is an excellent story teller, especially with a strong female protagonist. The plot is straight forward until the end. World building is excellent. Characters, even the minor ones, are nicely developed and always interesting. While there is little action, there are enough events and problems to keep the pages turning.
The cover art by Jan Targete is attractive and clearly indicates that this is a historical romance with a bit of fantasy. It does not, however, seem to represent the spirit of the story. Corie is sitting on a window seat while (presumably) Prince Bryan rides bye in the background. A map would help the reader to understand the geography involved in the story. Type is dark enough and average in size for this edition; it is easily read. White space is about average and see-through is about average.
"They went in there.Sherry pointed. The afternoon was quiet and deadly still. The sun rode in a cloudless sky. It was not, of course, a bright sun. The dusty Quiveras Cloud, within which this system had drifted for three thousand years, prevented that."
Thus begins Deepsix. This is a stand alone novel by a highly regard SF author. Infinity Beach was his previous novel.
After a disastrous experience by the initial landing party, Maleiva III has been abandoned by the Academy of Science and Technology. Twenty-one years later, Maleiva III is about to be destroyed by a huge gas giant that will collide with it. The Academy sends a ship of scientists to study the collision. A liner will also watch this major spectacle. Routine scientific observations of the planet now reveal signs of civilization. Priscilla Hutchins, the only qualified Academy pilot nearby is ordered to Maleiva to take a landing craft with a small scientific party to the planet to gather what evidence they can before the planet is destroyed.
An unexpected earthquake creates a situation in which their landing craft is no longer space worthy and the destruction of the planet is only a few days away. The focus of the story is how Hutch and her party attempt to reach the lander abandoned by the original Academy party over twenty years ago through hostile terrain on a planet that is beginning to self-destruct. If they can reach it, and if it can be made to work, they may be able to reach the space ships before the planet disappears in the great collision.
McDevitt is quite a good story teller and the plot creates considerable stress as the hours count down. Interactions between the characters, especially the pundit MacAllister, are well done and add much to the story. Too, there are the descriptions of this unusual world with its flora and fauna and then the evidence of the lost civilization. Although not overwhelming, there is enough realistic science here to please those who like "harder" SF. There are enough comments on the nature of civilization, men, and women via excerpts from MacAllister's writing to please those interested in some social science fiction. A variety of intriguing elements are well integrated into a smooth, thoughtful tale.
Deepsix, an alternative name for the planet, is solidly constructed, interesting and easily read story. This is McDevitt's sixth successful novel and he is well established.
The cover art by Chris Moore appeals and shows a lander that has landed roughly on the snowy surface of Deepsix.The scene is reasonably similar to the story. A rough map is somewhat helpful in showing the reader where the party is and where they must go. Type is dark enough and average in size for this edition; it is easily read. White space is about average and see-through is about average.
"Old King Osaze was dead, only a month dead, and already the kingdom of Aghamore was near to erupting in violence. The King had left no bodily issue to inherit the crown, and now each of the barons who ruled the eight outer provinces thought himself the best allied--by family and wealth or by strength and greed--to lay claim to the throne."
Thus begins the Thirteenth Scrool. This is clearly the beginning of a series since the main characters have but finished the first of several challenges facing them.
Many years ago, the monk Tambryn, since branded "the Heretic," wrote the thirteenth scroll where in obscure language he described what must be done to select the right king and mobilize the kingdom against the coming forces of darkness.
Giraldus is the baron that the story focuses upon. His mistress, Aurya, is an accomplished magician and one drawn to the darker magic. She will do whatever needs to be done to insure that Giraldus becomes king and she will become the power behind the throne. She has a copy of the scroll and has studied it until she feels she knows what it means.
Far away, the blind healer Lysandra goes about her solitary life after a terrible assault that caused her blindness and killed her family and fiancee. However, she does have an inner sight and visions that will lead her upon a quest to find the child "Font of Wisdom" who, according to the scroll, will play a pivotal role in selecting the new king. Lysandra will soon find a companion who has a copy of the scroll and that should direct them to the child. Unhappily, Aurya and Giraldus are also searching for the child and they will do anything to insure their success.
Lysandra will find unusual companions to accompany her and they will have interesting adventures before the child is found. But then they must somehow get the child back to the capital and that will prove to be most difficult.
This is an interesting, easily read story. However, the fact that the story stops somewhere in the first third or so of a longer story will irritate some readers who expect their novel to come to a reasonable conclusion. World building is satisfactory if not much different from other works of this kind. Major characters are reasonably well developed. The plot flows logically. There is adequate action and tension between the characters.
The cover art by Daniel Craig is attractive, showing Lysandra and her wolf companion Cloud Dancer as they might have appeared in the ancient forest. A map would help the reader to understand the geography involved in the quest. There is an appendix in the back matter with information on the kingdom. Type is dark enough and average in size for this edition; it is easily read. White space is about average and see-through is about average.
"On a chilly autumn morning in the year 6509, a nondescript hackney coach jolted through the muddy streets of a great northern city and came to a halt in a dismal little square. The door flew open and two women--as discreetly colorless as to their gowns, hats, cloaks, and gloves as they had been in choosing a coach--stepped down to the slippery cobblestone pavement."
Thus begins the Queen's Necklace. Although this reads as a stand-alone work, it could be the first in a series.
Long ago, this world was ruled by Goblins and humans lived in slave-like conditions. Over time, the Goblins turned inward and human kind revolted and triumphed. The Goblin ruling class, the Maglore, appears to have been destroyed, and their magical jewels of power have been scattered throughout many small kingdoms where they insure that things run properly. Terrible things would happen if these jewels were stolen or removed from their proper place.
The Queen's necklace with its powerful jewels has been returned to the Maglore, who have not all been destroyed, who will use it to capture a kingdom and begin their return to power and domination.
Captain Wilrowan Krogan-Blackheart is Captain of Her Majesty's Guard in Mountfalcon while leading a "raffish" life. Wil was forced into a marriage while in his teens, but is separated from his wife Lilliana. Their relationship is troubled. When the Chaos Machine--the Goblin jeweled artifact--is stolen from the Queen, the kingdom is threatened with destruction. Wil and two companions begins a chase to find and recapture the machine before it leaves the Kingdom and destruction begins. At the same time, Lil becomes part of a secret magical organization dedicated to defeated the Maglore Goblins when they reappear. When other "ensorceled gems" disappear from neighboring kingdoms, it becomes clear that this is more that simple theft.
Edgerton has created a complex and extremely interesting world. World building is done to a high degree of success. There are several major characters and many minor ones. All seem to be well developed and persuasive in their roles. The major characters are complex and most interesting. The plot is somewhat complicated in the beginning, but all comes together in a logical and convincing manner. While there is both sword play and sorcery, this is not a typical sword and sorcery novel. Still, there is enough action and suspense to keep the pages turning. Edgerton writes very well. She is a most accomplished story teller.
The cover art is attractive, showing Wil (I suspect) in a sword fight on the steps of the capital city of Hawkesbridge. While not a scene in the novel, it does represent the city well. There is a detailed list of characters and a somewhat helpful map. Type is dark enough and average in size for this edition; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"His Royal Highness, Prince Roger Ramius Sergei Alexzander Chiang MacClintock! Prince Roger maintained his habitual, slightly bored smile as he padded through the door, then stopped and glanced around the room as he shot the cuffs of his shirt and adjusted his cravat."
Thus begins March Upcountry. This is the first in a series of at least two novels about Prince Roger, third in line for the throne of the Empire of Man, and Bravo Company of Bronze Battalion of the Empress' Own Regiment. The next volume will be March to the Sea. While Weber is the lead author, the story telling seems more like the earlier work of Ringo. It is rougher than Weber's normal work and there is little of the socio-political-economic comment that usually appears. This is an action story with adequate to good world building, an array of interesting characters, and an attempt to portray soldiers realistically in language and manner.
The Prince is quite a dandy, and seems to have little to contribute to the Empire. He, along with the Company, is sent to the planet Leviathan to "show the flag." On the way, the ship carrying Roger is sabotaged and then attacked by hostile ships. Roger and the company find themselves unexpectedly on the planet Marduk--and a very long way from the only space port which is in hostile hands. Two stories follow from the landing. The major story is the attempt of the company commander and the NCO's to keep Roger alive and get him to the space port where they hope to capture a ship that can take them to friendly territory. The second story is that of Roger who must dramatically change his attitude and habits if he and his protectors are to survive.
There is considerable action. Marduk is home to interesting creatures and aliens about to emerge from a medieval level of technology. An easy, quite interesting military SF story. The story ends reasonably, but the good guys and gals are still far from the port and their advanced military technology is slowly dying in a hostile environment.
The cover art by Patrick Turner is true to the spirit of the work, but does not seem realistic to me. It will appeal to some and not to others because of its stereotypical, almost comic book quality. Maps are in the back matter. The one of Marduk is not particularly helpful. The others are well done, although I did not find them until I had finished the story.Binding is satisfactory. Type is dark and much larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"It was the most beautiful weapon in Eron--and the most deadly. It was one of the three most beautiful objects in Eron, and had been made, in large part, by Eron's most beautiful woman. Who also happened to be its best bladesmith--and its third best smith of any kind.
Thus begins Summerblood. This is the third in a series of novels about the land of Eron. This is a sequel to SpringWar. While the new volume may be read independently, it will make much more sense and be easier to follow if the reader begins with Bloodwinter, the first volume.
Avall is now the High King of Eron, much against his will. Being a King is difficult and a variety of difficult issues need to be dealt with. These problems fade into the background when the Ninth Face, a group of priests seize Gem Hold Winter, and kill most of the senior leadership of the Clans. Avall is soon in the field with this friends to regain Gem Hold Winter and defeat the Ninth Face. The priests hope to seize the gems of power from Avall, reduce the power of the Clans and rule Eron.
Together with the earlier volumes, this is a complex plot with a genuinely superior job of world building. Characters, and there are many, are thoughtfully developed and involving. There is considerable action but this is far from the usual swords and sorcery. Deitz writes very well indeed. Except for the fact that there is no resolution at the end of the book, rather like the old film serials where we end at a cliff hanger, this is an excellent story. Clearly, there will be at least another volume and perhaps more.
The cover art by Gary Ruddell certainly appeals, showing (I think) Avall's sister Merryn rowing a boat while Tir-Eron flames in the bakground. One of the Ninth Face [the other eight faces are the faces of God] is superimposed on the picture. I did not recognize this as a scene from the book, but it certainly represents the spirit of the work.The front matter includes a clear, attractive map. Binding is satisfactory. Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"...The first seeds arrived today, Raymond. I couldn't resist the urge to touch them. Dry little flecks of nothing that will change a world."
Thus begins In The Company of Others. This could be a stand alone story or perhaps the beginning of a series like her other works [Web Shifters series and the Trade Pact Universe series]. Changing Vision, second in the Web Shifters series was issued in 2000. Czerneda is especially good at creating interesting, believable aliens as well as strong female leading characters. She is also an excellent world builder and quite a good writer.
Humans found suitable planets for expansion and were terraforming them quite successfully. Suddenly, for reasons unclear, the alien Quill were found on these planets and they were deadly to humans. An abrupt retreat left many on ships and space stations, but with no where to go. A fearful Earth would not let the settlers return for fear that the Quill would return with them. Expansion in space seems stopped for good.
Dr. Gail Smith is a formidable researcher from Titan University. She believes that she has found a way to defeat the Quill and return humans to the lost planets. But first she must find the one person who may have survived the Quill. Aaron Pardell is that person and he is on Thromberg Station. Aaron has some unusual attributes, and some close friends. He does not want to help Smith or other Earthers, but he may not have a choice.
Pardell must become comfortable "in the company of these others," the Earther scientist and military. It will be his job to return to a lost planet to test Smith's hypotheses about the Quill and how they may be defeated. But this will be much more difficult and complicated than even Smith imagines.
The science is persuasive and interesting. Characters are well developed and attract our attention. While there is not a great deal of action, there are enough problems and puzzles to keep the reader's attention.
The cover art is true to the story and shows Pardell working the cables outside Thromberg Station..Binding is satisfactory, but the gutter margin is limited. Type is dark and small. White space is limited and see-through is about average. Given the small type and several pages, this is a substantial story.
"Had the orbital watch alert satellite contained a human being, or even a sophisticated duoclone, that being might have scanned the data and reported something like, Object classified as cometoid... spherical-octagonal, diameter forty-three meters, density two point five, composition approximately eight-two point four percent water..."
Thus begins Octagonal Raven. While I have enjoyed all of Modesitt's fantasy novels, I find his SF less enjoyable. Still, he writes well, plots are absorbing, characters are usually interesting, and his world building is well done. These novels have considerable socio-economic-political-cultural comment which can slow the story, but will be appreciated by those who wish to ponder how present trends may produce an unwelcome future.
Daryn Alwyn is the son of one of the most powerful families on Earth. His father and an older brother control a communications network that influences political opinion and "guides" society. This is a world in which nanotechnology gives those who can afford it considerable advantage. The same is true for being able to "preselect" genetic attributes. Earth is become at least a two caste place with the rich being able to almost guarantee advantage while the "norms," with a few exceptions, are rapidly left behind.
Daryn will make his own way in the world. He rejects working for the family firm and becomes a space pilot instead. After retirement from that, he becomes an editorial artist and a communications analyst rather than returning to his father's firm. His life is rudely interrupted when some one tries to kill him. The story follows his attempts to discover who wants him dead and why. He soon discovers that there is a much larger story and that is an attempt by the rich and powerful to control society even more via testing.
Modesitt does a good job of creating a most believable future Earth based on trends clearly visible today. Good world building and interesting characters make this a good read. Chapters are short. The plot is complicated enough to engage the reader, but not so complicated that it is difficult to track. I find some of the comment and personal notes were intrusive, but others may find them thoughtful.
The cover art by David Seely is stereotypical and does not at all reflect the story. For example, Daryn does not use a hand weapon in the story. Binding is poor. The library copy has already broken after a few circulations. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is average and see-through is average.
"In the failing light of a midwinter's eve, high in the mountains of the Dhaun Himal, the monks of SonnpurDzon trudged across a frozen courtyard filled with ice and snow. A fierce wind howling down from the mountain peaks whipped at the hems of their robes and made the nightly devotional a prize to be won."
Thus begins Prince of Time. I have not read the Chalice and the Blade which may be a prequel for this work. However, Prince works well as a stand alone work. This is labeled "romantic fantasy" and it does have some attributes often associated with the romance genre, including a few steamy scenes. However, it may also be read as SF - fantasy with a bit of time travel included.
Morgan ab Kynan found himself transported from a battle in 13th Century Wales to a dramatically different future Earth. Ecological disaster has taken away the seas and sand threatens to overcome the remaining land. While travel to other planets and other races are part of the environment, the main story is set on this future Earth. Morgan has become a master thief, leading a small, dedicated band. Strange dreams and a desire to return to his time increasingly sap his effectiveness and even his desire to live.
Lady Avallyn, Princess of the White Palace, has been bred and groomed to find the fabled "Prince of Time" who can return her to the 13th Century to prevent what will become the destruction of Earth. It appears that Morgan is that "Prince," but he is seen as a crude, violent, probably insane tech-trash thief. Avallyn kidnaps Morgan and attempts to take him to the White Palace. But the Warlord wants Avallyn in the worst way and is willing to destroy the White Palace to get here. Thus, a race against time to get to the Palace and through the ceremony to return Avallyn and Morgan to Earth where they must fight the forces of darkness to save future Earth.
Of the two stories here, the one on future Earth is by far the most interesting. The return to past Earth is less interesting but appears to wrap up threads from an earlier work. McReynolds does a good job of creating a most interesting future Earth. Good world building and genuinely fascinating characters make this a most interesting read. While I didn't care much for the steamy parts, they are easily passed over and the story flows very well.
The cover art by Alan Ayers is stereotypical (couple staring at each other amid castle and flowers) and does not at all reflect the gritty realism of the story. Excellent maps in the front matter make it easy to see what is where. There is also a useful list of major characters. Binding is average. The library copy has already broken after a few circulations. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is average and see-through is about average.
"The woman struggled through the knee-deep snow, the bundle of dead wood she had tied to her back almost as great a burden as the weight of the child she carried in her belly. Her breath rasped in her throat before frosting heavily in the bitterly cold southerly wind."
Thus begins The Wayfarer Redemption. This is the first in a series of novels about Axis, leader of the Axe-Wielders. Six novels complete the series and have been published in Australia. This is a sequel to Change of Command. The series is often s The first three deal with the situations introduced in this volume. The second three deal with a new situation faced by Axis and his family. All will be marketed in the U.S. as one series.
The novel begins with a prophecy about certain characters and events needed to defeat Gorgreal, a seemingly omnipotent evil person from the frozen North. Gradually, we are introduced to the major characters and the four major races of this world. There are a variety of adventures as Axis and the Axe-Wielders make their way to Gorkenfort in an attempt to ward off Gorgreal. The prophecy clearly says that only if the several races cooperate can evil be defeated. However, humans have driven the other two races from their homeland and consider them to be the "Forbidden" or evil ones. Axis is an illegimate son and has little standing in court.
Douglass tells a good story. Characters, although not deeply developed, hold our interest and there is considerable variety. The world building is convincing although not as detailed as that of some of her peers. The plot is complex and the prophecy provides a persuasive structure for the reasonably complex plot. Flap copy suggests that she might be a better author than Eddings or Jordan. I am not certain of that. I do wish that there was some of the humor and back and forth found in Eddings earlier work. This is a very serious story.
I enjoyed volume 1. The stage is well set for what will follow. The ending here but a turning point in the story. Gorgreal remains undefeated.
The cover art by Royo appeals. Farady and Axis are shown underground with a Star Gate in the foreground. While this may represent the spirit of the work, the scene does not exist in the story. Further, Faraday does not wear flimsy see-through clothing or carry a sword on her back. Attractive end paper maps show major places in the story and are easy to use. Binding is average.Type is dark and smaller than average in size; it is still easily read. White space is slightly less than average and see-through is about average.
"Excarix entered the presence of his queen with terror thrumming in his thorax. Like all queens Syaris was easily twice as large as he was, her pedipalps capable of severing his head from this body in one neat snip, her temperament such that this was an all too likely conclusion to any interview."
Thus begins Independent Command. This is a sequel to Privateer and the third in the "Flight Engineer" series. Commander Peter Raeder is on Come By Chance enjoying some R&R when the planet is attacked by a Fibian fleet. The Fibians are insect like creatures who are now allies of the Mollie rebels who seek to destroy the human Commonwealth. Peter suddenly finds himself acting captain of the warship Invincible on a mission to undertake a reconnaissance in force in Fabian space.
The first part of the story describes the aftermath of the attack and the attempt of major characters to return to their ship. It was slow and not especially interesting. The story becomes much more involving when the Invincible enters Fabian space. There are space battles, although none as good as those of David Weber, and then the encounter with a Fabian clan that has never met humans. Here the interaction between the two races is interesting and the story becomes much more engaging.
While there are comic book elements to the story and characters are not particularly well developed (perhaps because of background in the earlier stories), the plot is a good one. The Fabians are well described and their culture seems well developed. An easy read that will appeal to those who like their space opera quick and easy.
The cover art by David Mattingly appeals, showing the James Doohan Star Trek character, a space ship, space, and a Fabian. Binding is average. Type is dark and much larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"The pillow-shaped capsule tumbled end over end through the gulf between the stars. Every point of its four-meter length showed evidence of age; its matte-grey surface was pitted from microimpacts; the molecules of its ablative shield were scarred by radiation; gravity waves from distant black holes spiraling inevitably to collision had warped it from true."
Thus begins Evergence. This is an omnibus volume containing Prodigal Sun, Dying Light, and A Dark Imbalance which were originally published as Ace paperbacks.
Commander Morgan Roche, intelligence officer for the Commonwealth is escorting a powerful new AI unit, attached to her neural pathways, when her ship is attacked by those from the Dato Block. She escapes from her ship just before it is blown up and begins a lengthy adventure with three unusual characters. Adoni Cane is the most interesting one. It turns out that he is one of several super beings who have suddenly been found in space. Cane appears to be friendly, but the others are enemies of humanity and are almost impossible to destroy. Roche has a variety of adventures as she attempts first to get the AI unit to intelligence headquarters and then to learn more about the "clone warriors." Since the clone warriors can blend in with normal humans, it is almost impossible to identify them.
This is much better than average space opera. The world building is substantial and most persuasive. Characters are genuinely interesting and are well developed. The plot is complex. There is more than enough action. I was disappointed by the ending but that may say more about me than the work itself. It may be, since the third volume, was published in 2002, that there is more to learn about this universe.
The cover art by Paul Youll appeals, showing one space ship under attach by a much larger one. Binding is poorer than average. Type is dark and smaller than average in size; it is still relatively easy to read. White space is limited and see-through is less than average.
"Leaden, self-importance silence isolated the chief surgeon's office from the clamor of the hospital and the clangor of the street outside. A rain-dark day, a dim, chill, room filled with cold, heavy, imposing mahogany office furniture and lined with ebony bookshelves containing dreary brown leather-bound volumes so perfectly arranged that it was not possible that any of them had ever been taken down and used--the room in which Maya found herself was designed to cow, confine, and intimidate"
Thus begins The Serpent's Shadow. This is the first in a new series of novels about Maya Witherspoon, the daughter of a British physician and a Brahmin woman with magical talent.Both of Maya's parents have died in unusual circumstances, and she has left India for London where she hopes to practice medicine. As a female physician and a Eurasian, Maya faces considerable prejudice. She also has some magical talent and uses it to protect her home and staff. But Maya is self-taught and is unprepared for an evil enemy that will be dissatisfied until Maya dies in a most painful way.
Lackey's London appears to be most realistic in reflecting the economic, social, and political environment. Considerable attention is given to prejudice against women, but that seems reasonable given the story. The added element, making this much more than historical fiction, is the use of magic. Besides Indian magic involving Hindu deities, British magicians practice magic based on the elements of fire, earth, water, and air. Peter Scott, a water master, becomes Mays's ally in a desperate fight against a terrible evil. Maya's pet friends, brought from India--mongooses, a ring-necked parrot, a saker falcon, a peacock, a little monkey, and an owl--are much more than they appear to be. The story ends quite satisfactorily, but the verso of the title page indicates that there will be two more volumes.
As expected from Lackey, this is a novel rich in interesting detail with substantial character development. Her depiction of London is most persuasive. We care about her characters and are frightened of the evil ones. Although different from her Valdemar stories, this should appeal to a broad audience. This is also a strong cross-over title for those who enjoy historical fiction and historical romance.
The cover art by Jody Lee is simply excellent. Bright, colorful, and absolutely faithful to the story, this is what all cover art should be like. It shows Maya surrounded by her pet friends; all are threatened by a cobra. Binding appears to be good.Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"Kamoj Quanta Argail, the governor of Argali, Province, shot through the water and broke the surface of the river. Basking in the day's beauty, she titled her face up to the violet sky."
Thus begins The Quantum Rose. This is one of six novels about the Skolian Emplire.Not having read most of these, it is difficult to place this one in its proper sequence. It does include characters from earlier works, although it could be read as a stand-alone title.
Kamoj governs an increasingly impoverished province in a world in decline. High technology exists only in fragments and is no longer understood. The old ways appear only in myth and legend. Change comes quickly when Kamoj suddenly finds herself married to a stranger (Vyrl) who is revealed to be a prince of the Skolian Empire with a space ship in orbit around her planet. Conflict exists when Jax Ironbridge, pledged to marry Kamoj and combine her province with is, captures her. Kamoj must consider what is best for her people as well as her heart. If Vyrl leaves, what will happen to her and her people?
Asaro does quite a good job of world building, in particular explaining matters both technological and cultural. There is little action. This is mostly a novel of characterization and description. The places and people described are interesting, but never really captured the full attention of this reader. There are two stories here: one about Kamoj and her planet, and another about the rescue of the prince's family. The novel would have been stronger if it had focused on one story rather than two.
The cover art by July Bell is adequate and shows Kamoj and what I assume is Jax. story. Binding appears to be good.Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is average and see-through is average.
"I am a spaceship. I am about the size of the Martian moon Phobos, although not nearly as dense. I am also a human being."
Thus begins Metaplanetary.. This is the first novel in at least a two volume series about a Third Millennium civil war between a psychopathic dictator, Ames, who dominates the inner solar system held together by the Met, a living cable network, and those in the outer reaches, including the fabled cloudships, who stand for freedom. Ames enslaves virtual humans, created by nanotechnology, while they are seen as human by those who fight for freedom.
As Ames makes his move to conquer all of the inner solar system, a variety of characters attempt to survive and fight the desperate fight for freedom: Tacitus the cloudship, Jill who was formerly a ferret, a poet, a priest, and a Federal Army officer named Sherman. While the work ends at an appropriate point, the story has a long way to go so be prepared for at least one sequel.
Much of the novel involves stage setting in an artful and absorbing way. We learn about the major characters, the omnipresent "grist" or nanotechnology and how it has changed humanity, and the nature of the world with its physical and virtual networks. There is a considerable amount of scientific explanation and it seemed persuasive to this non scientific reader. There are also thoughtful comments on the nature of political life. There is enough action to keep the pages turning, but this is not space opera. Characters are well developed and occupy the reader's attention. The plot is reasonably complex. World building is excellent. An absorbing story.
The bright, colorful cover art by Gregory Bridges shows a single man standing on a rocky point watching a representation of the Met, the network that connects the planets. This could be any one of the major male characters. Binding appears to be good. Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"A cold wind swept the barren top of Stack Two; Ensign Margiu Pardalt's eyes ached from squinting into it. Broad daylight now; the wind had long since swept away the bitter stench of the seaplane fires."
Thus begins Against the Odds. This is the forth in a series of novels about Esmay Suiza, now Suiza-Serrano. This is a sequel to Change of Command. The series is often similar to the adventures of Honor Harrington by David Weber. There is considerable attention to politics in an interesting and usually well constructed world. There are thoughtful asides on matters political and social as well as on the nature of leadership. Esmay is an outstanding young officer who seems to know exactly what to do and when to do it. The plotting is complicated enough to be interesting, but not so complicated that the reader has any difficulty in keeping up. There are many interesting characters and some are well developed.
Esmay suddenly finds herself unexpectedly discharged from the Regular Space Service at Trinidad Station; her career evidently at an end. Her husband, Barin Serrano is nearly killed attempting to patch a hull breach, the mutineers remain at large, and leaders of the Familias Regnant are slain. Some characters from earlier novels return,and Moon introduces to Goonar Terakian and Basil Terakian-Junos, merchant traders.
While not action packed, there is enough action and suspense to keep the pages turning. While we don't get the taut battle scenes of Weber, we do get the persuasive characterization of officers and enlisted men. Enough issues are dealt with to insure that the reader who wishes to can think some deep thoughts. An easy, quite interested space opera.
The cover art by Gary Ruddell appeals, showing the Esmay in a battle suit in a command chair with another space ship and mines in the background. I am not certain if this is the way that she should look but there is no doubt that she is a strong character. Binding is poor. The library copy has already broken after a few circulations. Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"Two sorceresses stood beside the scrying pool in the domed outbuilding that lay to the south of the main keep of Loiseau. The taller woman had fine white-blonde hair, hair that could have belonged to the young woman of nineteen that her appearance conveyed."
Thus begins The Shadow Sorceress. This is the fourth volume in the "saga of Liedwahr" or the "Spellsong Cycle" and is the sequel to Darksong Rising.
Anna, the Sorceress Protector of Defalk, has unexpectedly died.Three sorceresses remain in Defalk, and this is the story of the youngest, Secca. The Sea priests are attacking in Dumar and Ebra. An evil sorcerer has appeared in Neserea. The challenges to Defalk are overwhelming to say nothing of those who wish to return to the old ways (male dominance) now that Anna is gone.
Secca is sent East to defeat a lord in revolt against Defalk. She must then challenge an overwhelming Sea Priest force intent on capturing the free city of Elahwa. There is much that she does not know for Defalk has not seen battle magic in many years. Secca will also meet an overcaptain from Ranuak who will play an important role in her future. For several years, Anna and her sorceresses have worked their magic in the shadows by quietly eliminating an evil person her and there. Secca will need to leave the shadows and become a major sorceress waging battle as Anna did of old.
Modesitt remains an usually effective world builder. A variety of small details well executed make this world, like that of Recluce, seem most realistic.Social, political, and economic forces make the story more persuasive. The main characters are stereotypical, but reasonably developed. Secondary characters are almost always interesting. It would be helpful to learn more about the Sea Priests since that are the major evil force to be overcome. Secca is a thoughtful, interesting heroine who is well developed. There is considerable action and lots of people are zapped by flame arrows and the like.
I enjoyed reading this work. Chapters are short. Writing is clear and direct. Descriptions are a strength throughout. Political, social, and economic comment is not too didactic and fits into the story line. The major problem is that this is a story that Modesitt has told before. The names have changed, but the plot and setting is similar to that of earlier works in the series. This can be comfort. But the series may be getting stale for some readers. For others, the wait for the next volume in the series will be too long.
The cover design by Darrell Sweet is an appealing glimpse of Secca casting a spell on a Sea Priest fleet (although this exact scene may not appear in the book). The book is attractively designed throughout. Binding is average. Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is above average and see-through is about average.
"The ancient house on the twisting Rue de la Morte had been an abode of the gentilesse some centuries before, but the changing tastes, first of the nobility and then the bourgeoisie, had abandoned it to the vagaries of Fate."
Thus begins The Leopard in Exile which is the second novel about Sarah Cunningham and her husband, the Duke of Wessex, in a world where the Colonies remain loyal to an England ruled by Stuart Kings. The Duke is a secret agent, one who has played an important role in thwarting Napoleon's plan for European conquest. This is also a 19th Century, actually 1807, where magic exists. Napoleon relies on the Marquis de Sade for magic particularly foul.
In this story, Louis, the only living heir to the King of France has disappeared in Baltimore. His wife, Meriel, asks Sarah for help and she is soon on her way to the Colonies. By then, Meriel has disappeared. Wessex soon follows his wife, but cannot find her. After a substantial journey, all will end up in New Orleans where the Marquis de Sade seeks the Holy Grail and plans a blood sacrifice that will make him all powerful. Wessex hopes to kill de Sade, but he knows that will be most difficult against such a powerful sorcerer.
There is not much character development in this novel and I found it less involving than The Shadow of Albion. Having said that, the world building is persuasive and interesting. This certainly is a history that could have been. There is enough action and strange sights to keep the pages turning. Descriptive pages are quite well done and the authors appear to have done enough research to create a most realistic environment. This is not as much of a Regency novel as the first one. The alternative history and the use of magic makes it appropriate for the fantasy category.
The cover art by Thomas Canty is usually attractive, showing the Duke and Sarah in costume within an elaborate border. Binding is about average for a trade cloth edition.Pages are easily held and turned.Type is readable and above average in size; it is easily read. White space is better than usual. See-through is about average.
Thus begins Changer of Worlds. This is the third anthology of stories about Honor Harrington and the universe that Webber has created for the Harrington novels. There are three stories by Webber and one by Eric Flint.
In "Ms. Midshipwoman Harrington," Honor finds herself in conflict with an abusive superior and suddenly in charge when her cruiser finds itself in a desperate battle against a surprising enemy. "Changer of Worlds" is about the decision of tree cats to reveal their mental powers to humans and settle on other worlds. "Nightfall" is the story of a coup against Oscar Saint-Just by Admiral Esther McQueen. The outcome should affect the Peeps for years. Finally, "From the Highlands" tells the story of an intelligence office in the Royal Manticoran Navy, stationed in Chicago, whose daughter has been kidnapped by terrorists. Unusual allies come together to attempt her rescue.
The tree cats story provides some interesting background on their relationship with humans. The other three stories have considerable action, page turning plots and some memorable characters. The collection is a quick, easy read and the stories are long enough to be well developed.
The cover art by Carol Heyer is somewhat appealing, showing the two tree cats in an appropriate setting with Honor's left eye staring forth.I didn't care much for the space ships, but they may be quite appropriate. Binding is flexible and about average. Generous white space facilitates reading. Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read.
Thus begins Local Custom, the first novel in Pilot's Choice. The other novel is Scout's Progress. Both are prequels to the novels found in Partners in Necessity and Plan B. Here we learn about the fathers of Shan and Val Con. In Local Custom, we learn about Master Trader Er Thom yous'Galen Kornval finding and claiming an unusual life mate. In Scout's Progress, Daav yos'Phelium, also of Korval finds unexpected romance.
Although the characters differ in their attributes and manner, the plot is essentially the same. A leader of Korval must participate in a contract marriage to give Korval the young heirs it needs. In Local Custom, the focus is on Er Thom and how he deals with mother. In Scout's Progress, the focus is on Aelliana Caylon Clan Mizel and how her desperate attempt to flee her abusive brother will soon involve Daav yos'Phelium.
Unlike the Agent of Change novels with their considerable action, especially Plan B, these might be called science fiction romance since the focus is on the growth of a strong relationship between two people and how that effects those around them. Rather than action, we are treated to the study of relationships that provides considerable insight into Korval and its society. The word "romance" should not dissuade SF readers. The stories are thoughtful, engaging, and strongly written. These are characters that we really care about. The world building is excellent.
Both novels can be read as stand alones and enjoyed. They will be especially attractive to those who have read the earlier novels and want to know more about the Clan Korval. Since Shan and Val Con are major characters in the other novels, it is helpful to know more about their parents and clan history.
The cover art by Michael Herring appeals, showing the four major characts above what I presume is the "tree" of Korval [Korval's symbol is the tree and dragon]. The trade paper edition binding is flexible and pages turn easily. White space is reasonable. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read.
"Dawn was breaking on Earth, and it could seldom have been more beautiful. The eastern sky wore a gorgeous stippling of salmon-pink and light gray clouds, the perfume of opening blossoms scented an easterly breeze, and soft bird-song filled the air. Dougal MacDougal stared around him and hated every bit of it."
Thus begins The Spheres of Heaven. Sheffield,a physicist and mathematician, is a scientist and his work contains enough interesting science to be "harder" science fiction along with the broad sweep and interesting predicaments associated with space opera. Spheres of Heaven is a sequel to his earlier work The Mind Pool which I have not read.
Because of their aggressive attitudes and values, humans have been quarantined to a relatively small area of space by the powerful alien races (the Stellar Group) who control the Link Points that allow travel through known space. The aliens are pacifists and will not allow any violence toward other beings regardless of provocation. The Quarantine has left humans in a difficult situation. With the frontier closed, society has become stagnant.
Now a new Link Point has suddenly appeared in the Geyser Swirl and alien ships were sent to explore. They failed to return or communicate. The aliens have turned toward humans and asked them to explore the new Link Point with the promise that success will lead to removal of the Quarantine. The catch is that there must be no violence no matter what. Chan Dalton, has worked with the Stellar Group once before, but many years ago. Now he has been asked to put together a team to explore the Geyser Swirl Link Exit and discover what happened to the other ships. Chad must find and convince members of his old team to join up and then things fall apart when the exit the link point. Not only is the Link Point different from those known, but the nearby planet has already been occupied by a race of insect beings intent on conquest.
There is a considerable amount of interesting problems and problem-solving, quite an involving group of characters, including good and bad aliens, some humor, and some social/economic/political comment. There is relatively little action/violence. The focus really is on coping with difficult situations. While not really a page turner, the story is a pleasant one and the pages turn quickly. Character development for the leading characters is good if sometimes stereotypical. The alien characters are adequately developed and hold the reader's interest.
The cover art by Bob Eggleton is generic, showing two space ships in an exotic setting. Binding is above average with head and foot bands. The black binding material is not appealing. Type is dark and larger than average in size; it is easily read. White space is generous and see-through is about average.
"He was asleep, but woke at the sound of the key turning in the lock. The storage room held winter linens, and no one should have been interested in it in the middle of summer."
Thus begins The Queen of Attolia which is the second novel about Eugenides, the royal Thief of Eddis. The first was the Thief. Having outwitted and shamed the Queen of Attolia, Eugenides is once more asked to return to her palace to learn more plans that could threaten the very survival of Eddis. Eugenides is the master thief who can steal anything. Yet on this trip to the Attolian palace, he is caught and is punished by losing his hand (a traditional punishment for a thief]. Eugenides is barely alive when returned to Eddis and war between Attolia and Eddis follows. The neighboring country of Sounis also attacks and Eddis is soon in a desperate situation.
Eugenides must overcome the loss of his hand and the feeling of failure. He must also find some way to prevent Eddis from being defeated. First, he must steal the Chief Mage of Sounis and then the Queen of Attolia. The second will prove to be his most difficult and threatening challenge.
The Thief was a Newbery Honor book so it was certainly well done. The Queen of Attolia is a somewhat better book. Characters are more fully developed, and the plot is just as complicated and surprising as before. Unlike so many heroic fantasies aimed at an adult audience, this is a most economical tale; a genuine page turner in but 278 pages. World-building is quite satisfactory. Minor characters are interesting and add considerably to the story.
The cover art is simple and attractive, showing Eugenides' hand imposed on the royal palace at Attolia. Binding is about average for a trade cloth edition. Pages are easily held and turned.Type is readable and above average in size; it is easily read. White space is better than usual. See-through is about average.
"Merlin the Enchanter sat alone in the wood. Trees walled his world."
Thus begins Kingdom of the Grail which appears to be Tarr's newest fantasy novel. Her other novels have been well-received and she is well-established. This is a stand-alone novel set in the time when Charlemagne is beginning to establish his empire.It merges Merlin, Roland, Charlemagne, and the Grail into a solid, compelling tale.
Here, Roland is descended from Merlin who has been isolated in a forgotten wood in France. In fact, Roland is able to enter the enchanted wood and learn from Merlin as a youth. In this story, Roland is the leading warrior in Charlemagne's Companions. We read of Charlemagne's unhappy Spanish campaign, a beautiful and most powerful woman who seeks a new king for the nearby fantasy land where the holy Grail is kept, and Roland's adventures in Spain and against an evil magician who has been blessed by the Prince of Darkness and will conquer all if he can obtain the Grail.
The world building, both the historical European parts, and the fantasy land of Montsalvat, are intriguing and persuasive. The major characters, Roland and Charlemagne, in particular, are nicely developed and hold the reader's interest throughout the book. Sarissa, the person who moves the plot along and becomes Roland's love, would be more understandable if we knew more of her past. There are many interesting minor characters. Ganelon, the most evil magician, is a bit stereotypical.The plot works very well and the characters are challenged in interesting ways. There is enough action and intrigue to keep the pages turning. Writing is clear, flows well, and is almost always interesting. The combination of Charlemagne, Roland, the Grail, Merlin, and most black evil creates an unusual, appealing story.
The cover art is simple and attractive, showing four of the Ladies of the Grail looking at the Grail. Binding is about average for a trade paper edition. Type is readable if a little faint and above average in size; it is easily read. White space is better than usual. See-through is about average.
Eamon Jasper approached the chief engineer's office with a feeling of accomplishment that was thoroughly mixed with the reservations that she had about her findings. She wanted more time."
Thus begins Colony Fleet which appears to be Matthews' fifth SF novel. The other novels have been well-received. This is a stand-alone SF novel set in the time when Earth first begins to colonize space. Given all of its problems, spending scarce resources on space flight and colonization is not popular with many on earth. The colony fleet leaves Earth just before the space program is cancelled. The fleet consists of asteroids converted into large space ships for the colonists along with more traditional space ships to accompany. The fleet has three major personnel categories: engineers, administrators, and technicians. Over the hundreds of years in space, this has evolved into a caste system with the "Jneers" in charge. The technicians have become "mechs" and occupy the bottom of society.
Hillbrane Harkover is born into a Jneer family, is bright, and expects to pass her final exams and become part of the privileged upper class. An unusual turn in her final creates a situation in which she finds herself sent to mech ship and abandoned by her caste. When the new home world, Waystation One, comes into view, she plays a pivotal role in the advance party and must discover a solution to a problem that could cause disaster for the colonists soon to follow.
The world building--here life in the colony fleet--is well done and the caste system is intriguing and persuasive. The major characters, Hillbrane, in particular, are nicely developed and continue to hold the reader's interest throughout the book. The plot works very well and the characters are challenged in interesting ways. There is enough action to keep the pages turning, but this certainly isn't space opera. In several respects, it reminds me of C.J Cherryh's work.
The cover art is somewhat stereotypical, showing the asteroid "noun" ships and some accompanying space craft. The space ships were too fanciful for me. Binding is average with very tight gutter margins. The binding material is not appealing. I suspect that the book will need retyping after a few circulations. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is average with the usual tight inner margins found in the mass market paperback. See-through is about average.
"In defense of Althalus, it should be noted that he was in very tight financial circumstances and more than a little tipsy when he agreed to undertake the theft of the Book. Had he been completely sober and had he not reached the very bottom of his purse, he might have asked more questions about the House at the End of the World, and he most certainly would have asked many more about the owner of the Book."
Thus begins The Redemption of Althalus. This is supposed to be the first stand alone fantasy novel by Eddings. However, the ending could certainly allow another volume with the same characters. Since David has added his wife Leigh to the title page, there has been some question about whether or not his writing has changed, perhaps becoming softer or more feminine. I did not detect that here and found this story to be similar in plot and characterization to the earlier novels. While this does not compare to the Belgariad series, it is certainly a pleasant read.
Althalus is a thief, and even a sometime murderer. In fact, he fancies himself as the best thief in the world. However, his luck--previously unusually good--has now gone bad. He is nearly desperate for a job to tide him over until luck returns. Soon, he is on this way to the House at the End of the World to steal a book. He will soon discover that the book is owned by a god and that god is in the house. The god is a woman, Dweia, who opposes the effort of her brother to destroy the world. Althalus is to become Dweia's agent in the world and in the process he may be redeemed. What follows is familiar Eddings. A god of light against a god of darkness. A quest which gradually brings together a curious group to fight a similar group allied with the dark one.
There is a considerable amount of military action, various kinds of magic, some good humor, some social/economic/political comment, and the usual Eddings' character interactions. In general, this is a page turner. Character development for the leading good characters is quite good if sometimes stereotypical. The evil characters are not really developed and did not seem to be as thoughtful as they should be. In fact, the major problem with this novel is that the good guys never really seem threatened and their victory is almost too easy. Althalus' redemption might have received a bit more attention.
The cover art by John Palencar is appealing, showing the two gods in an appropriate setting. Front and back cover illustrations are reversed on some copies which makes a nice front-out display on the shelf. Binding is below average with very tight gutter margins. The binding material is not appealing. I suspect that the book will need retyping after a few circulations. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is average and see-through is about average.
"Each time that any wing ascended in Mounthaven it was a minor pageant. The tiny aircraft, all with a span of less than thirty feet, formed the basis of the aristocracy and government in mid-fortieth-century America, and were the visible symbol of each airlord's rule."
Thus begins Miocene Arrow. This follows McMullen's Souls in the Great Machine which I have not read. While this novel has a satisfactory ending, the story is clearly not over and I would expect a sequel. Still, this can be easily read as a stand-alone work.
Dramatic change has come to Earth after the Chaos Wars. Most of civilization is gone and what is left has industrial technology of a modest level with steam trains and diesel powered aircraft. From undersea comes the Call which forces humans to move to the oceans. In Callscour lands, the Call is active for three days at a time with a thirty minute break. Humans cannot live there. In Call Havens, here in the Rocky Mountains, the Call comes every three days for three hours. Humans use Call anchors to keep from being swept away while they are unconscious and under the influence of the Call.In Australia, there are Callwalkers who have been genetically altered to be immune to the Call. A small number of Callwalkers seek the end of normal human kind and have access to some advanced technology. They can also be active during the call when others are unconscious.
There are both good and bad Callwalkers, but there are but three good ones to seek to stop the others from unleashing the "Miocene Arrow" which is a doomsday weapon. The bad guys gain control of a powerful kingdom and launch a work which they may win and which would give them control of the Rocky Mountain Callhavens and aircraft technology which they lack. One Airlord, with help from two of the good Callwalkers stands in the way of a victory that could destroy human kind.
Main characters include aircraft pilots, political and military leaders, and the Callwalkers from Australia. There are a variety of secondary characters. Most are interesting and believable. The two main pilot characters, Serjon and Bronlar, receive the most attention. There is much action and the reader is quickly taken into a well written story in an especially well constructed environment. The descriptions of the economic and social structure are clear, instructive, and believable. The plot is similar to the "aliens are among us" or the "superhumans who manipulate behind the scenes" themes found in much of science fiction. McMullen, however, has developed his story in an original and entertaining manner.
There is more than enough action to satisfy those who enjoy military science fiction. The societal descriptions are good enough to appeal to those interested in post-holocaust stories. McMullen writes well and should have a broad audience once he is better known.
The cover art by John Harris is both evocative and true to the story, showing gunwings in a somewhat representational setting. Binding is poor. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is better than average and see-through is about average.
"If Cyador be the paradox of Candar, and supporting that paradox be in;deed the duty of each of the Magi'i of the Quarter, then how must each magus approach that duty so as to support the way to the Steps of Paradise."
Thus begins Scion of Cyador. This follows Modesitt's Magi'i of Cyador. Both volumes explore the early history of Candar, that large island near Recluce. This is the 11th volume in the "Saga of Recluce" series. While this volume reaches a good concluding place, there is clearly room for much more and I would expect a third volume devoted to Lorn who is both magi'i and scion. This could be read independtly of the other volumes, but it would be better to at least read the earlier volume.
Lorn'alt is now an Overcaptain of the Mirror Lances. The advanced technology that has made Cyador the dominant power on Candar and in the world is in decline. The lancers, the magicians, and the merchants are grappling for power as the Emperor is dying. Lorn is unusually successful as an officer and has many enemies. His energy, intelligence, devotion to his men and to Cyador have also gained him some powerful friends. Lorn is ruthless when his survival or that of Cyador is involved and is quick to act when threatened.
Scion is similar in structure, plot, and character development to other works in the series. Again, we have an unusually well developed world with all the little details that make a place seem absolutely real. Characters are sometimes stereotypical, but they are almost always interesting. Although not as obtrusive in some of his novels, Modesitt does use the novel to make thoughtful comments about social, political, and economic issues, with some focus on the nature of power and its use.
The cover art by Darrell Sweet is an accurate depiction of a major battle scene towards the end of the story. Binding is average. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is better than average and see-through is about average. The book is well designed and is easily read. The maps, although not complete enough for this period, are helpful as is the list of characters in the front matter.
"He was called the Leader, young Daric--the demiurge by some. Hard to grasp, I know, but he was sole and singular."
Thus begins Ceres Storm. This is the first novel by Herter. Since the ending is not conclusive, I assume that there will be another with the same setting and characters.
Ten year old Daric lives in an isolated rural area of Mars with his strange grandfather and his much older brother. Sent to the city of Oppidum for an information drink that will provide him with the knowledge of the planets and the star lines, Daric has his first adventure and the reader is introduced to a strange, interesting science fictional universe where storms of nanotech have changed everything. Soon after, he is kidnapped and taken to Earth where he will find his future and his past. This is a quest novel and Daric needs to find his true identity and escape from enemies. He hopes to return to his family, but that will be a challenge. It is difficult to know who Daric's true friends really are, even among his family.
While there is a reasonable amount of action, Storm is more of a tour of a strange and curious universe. Herter is an evocative writer and many of his descriptive scenes and images are striking. Daric is believable and his actions/reactions seem reasonable. Secondary characters interest, but are not well developed. That may change in the following volume. I did not always understand why was happening or why, but perhaps I did not read closely enough or I am not familiar enough with current SF conventions. Still, this is a relatively short and most interesting novel. Herter is clearly an author to watch. I certainly want to learn more about Thola Nee Montyourn and what she is up to. And Daric's adventures have barely begun
The cover art by Allan Pollack is evocative, showing Daric and the Curator in a somewhat abstract setting. Binding is average. Type is dark and average in size; it is easily read. White space is better than average and see-through is about average.
"Rising up into the air, they took to the sky and flew. From west and beyond west, into the wind and through it, they came past countless moons and suns."
Thus begins The Hounds of the Morrigan, the first novel by Pat o'Shea. This is a substantial, stand-alone heroic fantasy story based upon Irish myth and legend. The ten year old Pidge and his little sister Brigit find themselves swept into a lon g and difficult quest to find the long lost stone with the Morrigan's (the Goddess of Death and Destruction) blood on it and place it beyond her reach. The hounds, with the ability to turn into people, chase Pidge and Brigit on their quest and the Morriga n uses her evil magic to frustrate them and create substantial barriers.
The Dagda, Lord of Great Knowledge, and the forces of light as well as birds, fish, and a variety of animals help Pidge and Brigit as they make their way across a quite different Ireland. The talking animals, birds, frogs, and the like add much to the story.
The quest is a difficult one, but Pidge has more courage and determination than he knows and Brigit is a strong child. Just when things seem hopeless, something unexpected and good happens. This may be unrealistic, but is traditional in this type of fo lkish tale.
Characters are both original and taken from Irish myth and legend. Minor characters are well described and almost always most interesting. Many of these characters are humorous in their remarks and comments. The humor balances the tense action scenes. Descriptive passages are clear and sometimes evocative. The quest plot is relatively straight-forward, but there are enough twists to make things interesting. The outcome is not certain until the very end of the work.
The cover art by Kinusko Craft is an appealing, accurate portrait of the Morrigan and her hounds.The red eye is especially effective.The book is easily read with generous white space, and a large, dark typeface. The gutter margin is skimpy enough so that the book must be held in both hands while reading. Binding is average.
"Lady Firebird Angelo was trespassing. Shadowed by her friend Lord Corey Bowman, she squeezed and twisted through a narrow, upright opening between two dusty stone walls."
Thus begins Firebird, the first novel by Kathy Tyers in a trilogy. As the Bethany House imprint indicates, this is a Christian SF novel, but one that shares many romance elements. The Christian focus is an integral part of the story, but it is not bothersome and seems appropriate for the story told.
Lady Firebird is the third daughter of the queen in a society where only the first two children of a noble family are allowed to live past adulthood ( wastlings they are called). A small number of nobles control the planet Netaia in accordance with a religion that endorses sacrifice and obedience and the status quo. Firebird is to die an honorable death in the invasion of Veroh, which was under the protection of the Federacy. The invasion fails, Firebird takes a death potion, but is captured, and saved, by the Federacy Wing Colonel Brennen Caldwell.
Three threads follow. Firebird's evil sister Phoena attempts to have Firebird killed and develop a weapon of mass destruction to attack the Federacy. Firebird must deal with her feelings of guilt for not having died and becoming a "traitor" to her home world. She also has a religious crisis, increasingly doubting the Netaian religion. Brennen, with highly developed mental powers, including mind reading, and Firebird must deal with their growing attraction for each other.
There is enough of the traditional SF elements--invasions, intrigue in the palace, a few humans with super human powers (good and bad)--to make the series enjoyable for those not particularly interested in Christian fiction. This is more about character development and relationships than action, but there is enough action. The world building is not detailed, but is good enough to support the story. Minor characters are not well developed. The plot is straight-forward. While there is a satisfactory ending, it is clearly not the end of the story. This is an excellent cross-over candidate since it should appeal to those who read Christian, romance, and science fiction. Lady Firebird is an appealing character.
The cover art is reasonably attractive except for the mushroom like space objects on the lower right corner.The book is easily read with generous white space, and a legible typeface. Binding is average. Paper seemed to be coarse and of a lower quality than expected in a trade paper edition.
