Product Description
What do you do when home is a conspiracy that's been discovered and destroyed? When home is a planet in a star system that's gone missing? When home means working for the destroyers of galaxies? When home is a spaceship that's calling out to the enemy? Cantra 'yos Phelium isn't a quitter, but she has more than a little problem: the Enemy has accelerated its attacks and how do you fight an Enemy whose major form of attack is the de-crystallization of everything around itself? A smuggler with a rogue soldier for a co-pilot, and a tree with an attitude for crew, Cantra's the only one who can get close to the man who holds equations that just might thwart the Enemy. All she has to do is help a young pilot from a missing world; juggle a slippery promise she never quite made to a pair of wizards; and then forget who she is along with everything - and everyone - she's ever known. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good, but not excellent, continuation
The second novel in the Crystal duology nicely completes the story started in Crystal Soldier. There are some odd moments where things don't quite mesh, but in general the story hangs together. It's a "must-read" for Liaden fans because of the background it brings to that universe. In that respect it is similar to Anne McCaffrey's Dragonsdawn, although I believe the writing is superior.

If there are any fan's of Jo Clayton's Skeen series (Skeen's Leap, Skeen's Return), then the female lead Cantra should be a welcome introduction to a similar character.

Challenging, Intriguing
Some of the criticisms found in other reviews of this book are justified, but as a whole, Crystal Dragon is a worthwhile entry in the Liaden Universe series. It continues the story begun in Crystal Soldier, and lays the groundwork for the books set at a later date (Local Custom, Scout's Progress, Conflict of Honors, etc.). It's important to note that Crystal Soldier and Crystal Dragon actually are among the last of the books written for this series. I would recommend reading them in order of publication rather than in the order of the time periods in which they're set, as I think the whole story unfolds much more effectively this way. Tantalizing bits alluded to in the earlier novels are fleshed out in later ones, and it becomes apparent how masterfully the authors have maintained continuity across a series it's taken them nearly 20 years to write. And quite frankly, readers who don't start with the more accessible earlier novels are probably going to be completely lost through most of Crystal Dragon.

It's unfortunate that sections of the story are written so obliquely that they require several readings, but this narrative style is characteristic of the authors and is often used to good effect in their other novels. The Liaden Universe novels had a small but very devoted following from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Perhaps both the authors and editors assumed that the fan base would be so familiar with both the Liaden Universe themes and the authors' narrative quirks that the more obscure passages wouldn't pose a problem.

(WARNING - Minor Spoiler Follows) Much of Crystal Dragon is occupied with how the protagonists (Cantra and Jela) are to overcome an Enemy that is seemingly unstoppable. Indeed, the authors have created an Enemy so powerful that their victory seems an all but foregone conclusion. The solution of using mathematical equations and physics to engineer an escape is quite ingenious in this non-scientist's opinion. And at heart, the Liaden books are space opera far more than they're hard sci-fi, so the rather tortured explanations for how this is accomplished should be taken with a large grain of salt anyway. Much more affecting are the unfolding of the romance between Jela and Cantra and reading about the earliest seeds of the establishment of Liaden society. And, as usual with the books in this series, there's an entertaining cast of secondary characters that helps to move the plot along.

Good characterizations, dreadful science magic
Book one of this set was very good and satisfying except the annoying hick/backwoods grammar of the heroine.This one had the same and other wonderful characters, but sadly half the book was nonsensical gobbledygook nonsense stuff that made no sense and totally distracted from both the book and the story.As a supposed background to the rest of the Liaden Universe, it falls flat on its face.Frankly, one might find more sense in A Clockwork Orange than the incoherent mutterings being passed off as the evil others and their creations who fight them.The part of the choosing of a submissive was so stupid it was embarrassing to read.I am very disappointed in this book and find the authors talking about needing to mature to write the background, then writing such drival... well it was very disappointing at the least.In fact, I suspect someone on psychedelic drugs could have written better sense than this book gave. ... Read more

Product Description
Freelance thief Gem ser'Edreth makes the calculated mistake of turning down a commission from the local crime boss. Gem's hidden past proves an unexpected liability as his plans to leave the planet go catastrophically awry. Suddenly embroiled in interplanetary politics, and a potential interstellar war, in possession of a Trident, a mysterious, ancient object of power and an unwanted cousin, Gem discovers that the Trident may hold the key to his salvation-or his undoing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Great read
I have read all the Liden novels by this authorand this one fits in the story line as and off shoot.Excellent read.

Gem
Not clan Korval or Laiden, but was great. The story's not done. The ending hooks you for book 2. I can't waite for book 2!

The good beginning of a series - as yet unfinished
Gem ser'Edreth is the son of the captain of a spaceship whose crew have lived on the ship for generations and a grounder, that is someone born and living on a planet. After his mother's death his xenophobic uncle mistreats him and finally sells the 9-year-old boy because of his grounder genes. What should lead to degradation and death turns out relatively lucky since Gem is sold to a thief who wants to pass the secrets of his trade on to an apprentice / son.
20 years later, Gem has become a master thief, which attracts the unwanted attention of a crime boss who forces him into stealing a mythical object for her. As if that weren't enough, a member of the same crew who didn't help the despised half-blood has come to make him return to the ship since it was foretold in the Tomorrow Log - a log foretelling the future -that he would lead the crew to greatness. What follows is an action-filled adventure with well-developed characters and cultures.
The quality of this novel is as high as one would expect of the creators of the Liaden-universe. I definitely came to like the lead characters and enjoyed the interesting story. What's frustrating is that the ending is totally open, and the sequel 'Web of the trident' that should have followed hasn't been published since the publisher Meisha Merlin closed down in 2007 - a very short time before the book was finished and would have been printed. According to the authors it's highly unlikely that anyone will take up this series, so the reader is stuck with half a story. So personally I found the book more frustrating than enjoyable because I'd like to know the rest. But to a fan of the authors it should still be worth reading and as I said before, the quality is definitely high. The few things that I found not quite perfect may be due to storylines that would have been given explanations / depth by the sequel. To summarize: This is basically a very good book, but is likely to leave you frustrated.

This is the next great series by Sharon Lee & Steve Miller!
No, The Tomorrow Log isn't set in the Liaden Universe. But don't let that stop you from mining the riches you'll find in this book. The Tomorrow Log is replete with relentless excitement, derring-do exploits, mystical elements, an understated romance, and the authors' trademark diverse socio/cultural touches.

Gem ser'Edreth is an electronics ace by nature and an independent thief by trade. He has very few ties to anyone and prefers to exist on the fringes of civilization, under the radar of the law. His preferred companions are his tiny robotic spider constructs, which are invaluable in reconnoitering and infiltrating many potential "jobs."

Gem's status quo changes when the beautiful and lethal Corbinye Faztherot - scout, mediator, and assassin for the GenerationShip Gardenspot - shows up and claims kinship with Gem (they're cousins) and tells him that he is the long-lost Captain predicted in the Tomorrow Log to steer the Gardenspot past its greatest peril and then onward to bigger and better things for Ship and Crew. But Gem dismisses her, an act which he also repeats time and again with Lady Belaconto, a chieftain of the planetary crime syndicate, who wants to commission Gem into stealing a legendary artifact in order to control the trade of a rare drug.

The tension is ratcheted up when Belaconto sniffs out Gem's familial ties with Corbinye and has her kidnapped and held as hostage until Gem undertakes and completes her commission. Little does Gem realize that the theft of the mystical Bindalche Trident will catapult him and Corbinye into a rousing, high-stakes adventure foretold by a prophecy centuries past.

This is the first entry in the Gem ser'Edreth series. The upcoming sequel is titled Web of the Trident, which hopefully will be out soon (the authors' blog says maybe around April/May 2007?). As usual, Sharon Lee & Steve Miller make for a wonderful, highly entertaining read. I was totally engrossed in The Tomorrow Log and finished it in one sitting. This book found me marvelling once again at the authors' talent for intricate world-building. Given time, Gem's universe might prove to be as entrancing as the Liaden Universe. Gem and Corbinye turn out to be as captivating, resourceful and heroic as Val Con and Miri. They certainly ingratiate themselves with the reader. Gem's cute techno-spiders make good supporting players, as Lee & Miller invest them with almost human characteristics. The valiant golden-eyed Spider Number Fifteen may well be my favorite secondary character.

This is a very promising start to what hopefully will be a memorable series. It's similar to the Liaden Universe in terms of its space opera scope and sensibilities. But at this juncture, The Tomorrow Log doesn't resonate as well with the fans. But, give it time...Anyways, four and a half stars.

loved it & glad there is to be more
I just now finished Tomorrow Log.It was good to once again read intelligent, plausible and human SF (of which there is all too little).I am also very glad to have just found out that there is an upcoming sequel to this one, which I hope will be available soon, because a lot could happen next, and I want to know what that is ASAP! ... Read more

Product Description
Before Miri Robertson met Val Con yos'Phelium she was an acclaimed mercenary soldier. Before she was an acclaimed mercenary soldier with the Gyrfalks, she was "Redhead," a young recruit in Lizardi's Lunatics. Meanwhile, there was a weatherman, Ichliad Brunner. A weatherman's job is to observe and predict. What else can an honorable Liaden do, but his duty? A space-based Liaden meteorologist can only observe the trials of a mercenary troop abandoned in place during a world war fueled by hate and superstition. The young soldier who carries the station's weather equipment to the surface, is cheerful, bright, and going to die. The station commander isn't concerned because the data on weapons used to gas populations and destroy cities is priceless, while the soldiers below are only misfits. Misfits like Miri Robertson, who doesn't know quite when to give up. Misfits was originally published electronically by Jim Baen's Universe -- this is the first print publication. ... Read more

Product Description
The Liaden Universe® series has enthralled thousands of readers, and now two of its most exciting space adventure novels are combined in one popularly-priced Omni-trade volume.

            Plan B: Val Con yos’Phelium is a fugitive. The heir of Clan Korval is wanted by the covert Liaden agency known as the Department of the Interior, whose rulers have declared unofficial war against the entire clan. With only his love, Miri Robertson, by his side, Val Con plans a desperate gamble by forming an alliance with Clan Erob on the planet where Miri was born.

            But Val Con’s cousin, Shan yos’Galan, can’t wait for help that may never arrive. With enemy agents closing in, he invokes Plan B—setting in motion a series of events that will have dire consequences, not only for him and his life-mate, Priscilla Mendoza, but all of Liad . . .

            I Dare: On the run from the agents of the Department of the Interior, Val Con has been separated from Miri. Shan, Val Con’s cousin, and Shan’s life-mate Priscilla, continue to search for him, believing that he’s the Clan’s last hope for survival.

            But the DOI is attacking Clan Korval in a more subtle fashion. Pat Yin yos’Phelium—Val’s ne’er-do-well, nearly identical cousin, gambler and con artist—is offered control of the clan. The DOI believes they can manipulate him into serving their agenda.

            They’re wrong . . . 

“I rarely rave on and on about stories, but I am devoted to Lee and Miller novels and stories.” —Anne McCaffrey ... Read more

Product Description
This chapbook contains two original stories: "Shadow Partner," and "Persistence." Each story features a well-known member of Clan Korval, portrayed as others see them. ... Read more

Product Description
Hidden from the human-inhabited world by the inimical magical device known as the keleigh, the Vaitura has become a subtle battleground where the once all-powerful Elder Fey strive against each other and the upstart Queen to regain ascendancy. Of all the Elder Fey it is Altimere who is strongest in magical kest and Altimere who is most devious. Pitted against Zaldore and her group seeking to manipulate the convelescing Ranger known as Longeye to foil the Queen and rule the world, Altimere dares to utilize the untested powers of half-human, half-Fey Rebecca Beauvally, recognized by the elemental denizens of the Vaitura as The Gardener.

            Now all plans must be rewritten: Becca breaks Altimere's capricious dominion with the dangerous herbal help of Duainfey, but, weakened by the effort, is held against her will in service to the Queen by Meripen's mysterious sea-lord cousin, Sian. Becca must escape the Queen's retainers to regain control of her own fate. With the magics of the Vaitura, and Altimere's retribution arrayed against her, she escapes with only her horse, a mad forest-living Brethren, and her freed magical servant Nancy at her side. Worse, the recovered legendary hero Longeye, long beloved of the Vaitura's forest folk and creatures, has re-armed at Sian's bidding, and knows most of all about Becca that she is both dangerous, and of the same folk who cruelly tortured him and slew his lover before his eyes.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

I liked it better than the first book.
This second book in the series I enjoyed a lot more than the first.There was more character development and a little romance, which I always enjoy.I was only dissatisfied with the ending, which was confusing and very abrupt; it definitely could have been done better.

A riveting fantasy saga
The Vaitura has long been hidden from the human world, but is the battleground for competing fairy races - including a half-human, half-Fey woman injected into the picture and a convalescing Ranger known as Longeye. Here Rebecca is held against her will in service to the Queen - and must escape her captors to form new, dangerous alliances in this riveting fantasy saga, perfect for libraries strong in action fantasy presentations.

Waste of time & Money
This prequel, Duainfey, isn't a book, its the beginning of a book, no type of any closure unless you buy and read next book. I had bought both, but still am offended with how it was done.

The prequel was horrible. Sexual violence has it's place, but obviously Lee & Miller can only write rape in crude, not scary or traumatic terms.

Still could overlook the coarseness if not for the utterly ridiculous ending In Longeye, and so much jumble between. It was like OOPS, out of space lets wrap this up. Much of the book made no sense, gave up even on rereading to try to untangle it.

Been fan long time, will be more careful in future of just buying their work. Sadly many begin to become less caring of writing good work as they get further down the road and sadly this seems to be the case here.

Am utterly disappointed with this and the sequel and sad I wasted good money buying new or buying at all. So much potential there flushed down the drain, along with my money.

Ultimately unsatisfying
First off, this is not a novel. It's the second half of a novel. Don't even try to read this without reading Duainfey. [I wish publishers wouldn't do this.] For the rest of the review I will assume the reader has read Duainfey.

So how does this book compare to that one? Well, for one thing it makes more sense. The plot advances, and then completes. The characters are better-revealed. The background is explained more clearly. The motivations make more sense. All in all, it is better.

But "better" is not "excellent". In fact, it's not really "good". It's more like "adequate".

I think this was a case of Lee and Miller making a gamble and trying something that didn't really work. Or maybe they had an idea that they just couldn't ignore, even though they should have. In many ways this had all the worst aspects of their other work without the sheer fun and joy which makes the technical flaws unimportant.

The secondary characters were more enjoyable than the main characters, and this was not the kind of story where that could have worked. I just never cared about these main characters. And we never really understand what happened to their world except that there was some sort of crisis which was bandaged over. Eventually the bandage became more dangerous than the wound. And then the bandage was removed. That's all, folks.

I think this was supposed to be a redemption story, but we need to feel like the people being redeemed are worth redemption. And instead, they just seem to be reactors instead of actors.

To tell the truth, I kind of wish Altimere had been the hero. He was selfish. He was cruel. He was abusive. He was vain. But at least he had some style.

good read
i really enjoyed this book, and read it as fast as i could, i cannot get enough of these authors. ... Read more

Product Description
On the run from interplanetary assassins, covert operative Val Con yos'Phelium and former mercenary sergeant Miri Robertson end up stranded on a distant planet-with no rescue in sight. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Following the Link
Carpe Diem (1989) is the third SF novel in the Liaden Universe series, following Conflict of Honors.By internal chronology, however, it is a direct sequel to Agent of Change.This story takes place later than most other volumes in the sequence.

In the previous volume, Edger convinced Justin to call off his Juntavas thugs.Borg got the message just in time to save Val Con.They freed the Liaden and the mercenary and gave them the yacht.

Unfortunately, the yacht had been damaged and the coils were good only for one jaunt.Then the Yxtrang returned to collect the ship.So Val Con tricked the Yxtrang commander and left them behind with a badly damaged ship.

In this novel, Val Con yos'Phelium is a Liaden.He had been a First-in Scout, but now is a spy for the Department of the Interior.He is married to Miri and is also the Delm of Clan Korval.

Miri Robertson is a Terran.She had been a mercenary, serving with the Gyrfalks.Then she left to become a bodyguard.Now she is married to Val Con and stranded near an interdicted world.

Twelfth Shell Fifth Hatched Knife Clan of Middle River's Spring Spawn of Farmer Greentrees of The Spearmakers Den, The Edger is a Clutch.He is about seven hundred years old and is a T'carais of his people.Val Con is the adopted and younger brother of Edger.

Shan yos'Galan is a Liaden.He is Theodelm of Line Galan and nadelm of Clan Korval, a Master Trader, and Captain of the Liaden ship Dutiful Passage.He is lifemates with Priscilla Delacroix y Mendoza, a Terran and a very powerful witch.

Nova yos'Galan is a Liaden.She is Shan's sister and Val Con's cousin.She is also First Speaker of Clan Korval.

Anthora yos'Galan is the younger sister of Shan and Nova.She is also the most powerful dramliz -- wizard -- on Liad.

Zhenu Estra Trelu is a native of Vandar, an interdicted world.She is a widow and her children have left home.The farm is showing signs of poor maintenance.

In this story, Val Con builds a topological model of the interdicted planet to choose a place to land.They decide to set down among large rocks in a northern mountainous region near a small town.Getting the damaged ship safely to the surface is tricky, but not too much for a First-In Scout.

After the landing, they hike toward the town.Miri has never before seen a town so small.Even the towns she has fought through were larger than this town.They soon find a farm outside the town and manage to get fed without either side understanding a word that the other was saying.

The first word Miri and Val Con learn is "Borril", the name of the farm watchdog.The second word Val Con learns is "sit".Then they learn the term "Zhenu Trelu" -- which they reckon is the woman's name -- and they state their own names.Val Con's name becomes Corvill and is soon shorten to Cory.Miri becomes Meri.

The pair settle in and start fixing things around the house and doing the chores.Val Con fixes the toaster and Estra steers him toward the carpet sweeper.Miri washes lots of dishes and starts bringing in the eggs.

Miri has some problems with the language.One day, the difficulties drive her out of the house to sit down and cool off.Van Con discusses her problems and then begins teaching her some Scout tricks.

Meanwhile, Nova discovers that Val Con is missing.Edger sends her a message about the Juntavas and the missing Clutch ship.When she contacts Scouts Headquarters, Nova learns that Val Con is on detached duty with the Department of the Interior.And Interior refuses to answer her questions.

Shan suggests that they consult Anthora.When asked if Val Con is alive, Annie immediately answers in the affirmative.When asked where he is, she takes aminute and then points in a direction.Later, Shan learns that Priscilla also can point toward Val Con.

This tale brings Clan Korval -- and the Scouts -- into a confrontation with the Department of the Interior.Within the Dutiful Passage, Shan and Priscilla are following her mental link toward Val Con.Edger's negotiations with the Juntavas reach a higher level.And Interior sends another agent to track down Val Con.

This story leaves Clan Korval and their allies in a mess.The next installment in this sequence is Plan B.Read and enjoy!

Highly recommended for Lee & Miller fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of interstellar adventure, cultural conflicts, and true romance.

-Arthur W. Jordin

Reasonably intelligent romantic space opera
This is the third volume in a story arc that began with _Conflict of Honors,_ and it picks up right where _Agent of Change_ left off, with Val Con yos'Phelium and Miri Robertson apparently marooned by circumstances on an interdicted (pre-spaceflight) world. Much of the book is taken up with the pair learning about and adapting to the local culture. As a Scout, Val Con is used to this, but Miri is essentially uneducated and has to flounder a bit before she learns about her own talents. Their use of music to fit themselves in is a nice theme. But there's also the search for their missing kinsman being carried on by the Korvals -- which draws the notice of the Department of Interior, which you don't want to do. Again, the romantic element gets a bit out of control, but not too badly. And you want to have the next volume ready to hand when you finish this one!

Enjoyable Book
Although it is an enjoyable book, I did not like Carpe Diem by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller as much as I have enjoyed the other books in the Liaden series, perhaps because I just didn't like the plot device of having them be Val Con and Miri Robertson be stuck on a planet. However, that is not to say that this was not a good book-- it was. Reading about Val and Miri struggle with the language difficulties and trying to fit in on a planet where they obviously don't was quite fun and the interplay between Val and Miri was very natural. i'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 more as a comparison to the other books in the series-- taken on its own merits, it is a great book.

2nd in the adventures of Miri and Val Con
"Time I was - sick - right after Klamath, I got to read lots. Book I liked best was called DICTIONARY OF PHRASE AND FABLE. It was sort of a list of things that people had said and believed - and sometimes *still* said - and next to each one was an explanation of what it was really supposed to mean.
"*Carpe diem*, now - that's supposed to mean, 'seize the day,' enjoy yourself while you can. Seemed like good advice."
- Miri Robertson to Val Con, first day on Interdicted World I-2796-893-44 (Vandar)

Unlike its two predecessors - CONFLICT OF HONORS, which concentrates primarily on the DUTIFUL PASSAGE crew with little reference to Val Con, and AGENT OF CHANGE, which concentrates *solely* on Val Con without reference to the DUTIFUL PASSAGE crew - this third volume of what later became the omnibus PARTNERS IN NECESSITY rotates the viewpoint between the yos'Galan and yos'Phelium branches of clan Korval. As such, it contains minor spoilers for CONFLICT OF HONORS and major spoilers for AGENT OF CHANGE. At a minimum, read AGENT OF CHANGE before tackling this book, and make sure to have the sequels PLAN B and I DARE at hand when you finish, since CARPE DIEM is only the second book in the continuing story of Val Con's experiences as an Agent of Change working for "the Department of the Interior" - a radical splinter group within Liaden society who are determined to give Liad its rightful place in the galaxy, although they're convinced they'll have to destroy Liad's culture to do so (those pesky clan loyalties are so inconvenient).

In one sense, CARPE DIEM is merely a waiting game, a holding action between AGENT OF CHANGE and PLAN B, wherein Miri and Val Con are trapped on an Interdicted World - a world inhabited by humans, but insufficiently advanced to have joined galactic civilization as yet- and awaiting rescue.

In terms of character development, though, CARPE DIEM is a good book. Val Con and Miri are still getting to know each other, never mind settling into being married to one another. Val Con, as a rich kid from a loving family with an expensive education, is still learning about how to reassure Miri (who had none of those things) that he'll be there for her when she needs him, while learning to open up enough to let her help with *his* issues, the Department of the Interior having done quite a lot of psychological damage to him when making him over into an Agent. They're also both learning to fit into an alien society (about the level of early 20th century Earth), which puts them on a somewhat level playing field, although Val Con as a former Scout has the advantage of being taught to handle such situations.

If you like Sayers' Lord Peter Wimsey novels, I recommend this series highly. Val Con's a lot like post-WWI Lord Peter, including the chatty defensive mechanisms and sense of humour. Miri has fewer similarities to Harriet Vane, being a retired mercenary soldier with little formal education but a quick wit and some deep emotional scars. While Val Con has the obvious emotional trauma of having been remolded into an Agent of Change, she had some experiences in her military career that once put her in drug rehab, something she's reluctant to tell Val Con about, not knowing how he'll react.

Not that it's all angst, by any means. Val Con and Miri both have lively senses of humour, and we have interludes by Val Con's adopted brother Edger (six feet of 600-year-old Clutch turtle is a good person to have looking out for you when you're lost, not to mention on the run from the mob) and Val Con's yos'Galan cousins.

"Tell me, denubia, did the contract husband leave with all faculties intact? If yos'Galan owes for mental disability it would be best for me to settle it before the PASSAGE leaves."
- Shan yos'Galan to his sister Anthora (older brothers can be *so* unreasonable...)

Enjoyable, but not deep
The books in this series are intriguing principally in terms of plot. Action, rather than detail drives the events. Character development is decent, but descriptive elements to embellish both plot and character are lacking.

For example, in the introduction of the turtle-like race, there is little physical description available beyond that they are large, long-lived, and generally turtle-like. This may be an intentional facet of the authors' writing styles, however, it is to be noted in the descriptions of places and people as well.

Apart from visual elements, sounds are not fully described either--guns go "boom" ...

The novels are quite appropriate as far as reading level goes for younger audiences, but the content is such that an older teen audience is recommended. Sexual situations are not described in detail, but a post-modern ambivalence toward sexual issues is prevalent. ... Read more

Product Description
Throughout the Free Galaxy, remnants of the fascistic Oligarchy are working to bring mankind back under their cruel and repressive rule. Sixteen-year-old Jerel Telemon holds the key to the weapon that can tilt the balance toward good or evil. The first book of a multi-book series. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Rather shallow and disappointing
Jerel Termon is the daughter of two leaders of a successful rebellion against the Oligarchy - several powerful families ruling a section of planets in the Milky Way. In a final battle, both armies - including Jerel's parents - disappeared and no one knows what exactly happened. Jerel was then raised by Orned and taught to be always careful since there might still be members of the Oligarchy after her for being her parents' daughter. And when she's sixteen, Orned's fears come true. A colleague is murdered, Jerel is abducted and can barely escape with Orned, her friend Kay and later the help of other members of the former rebellion. It seems that Jerel is the key to finding the missing armies, which would disrupt the balance of power severely... This book is basically about the disruption of Jerel's peaceful life and the beginnings of her run from her enemies. It has a completely open ending and was supposed to be the first of a series named 'Beneath strange skies'. However, according to the authors the publisher hasn't shown any interest in continuing the series, so this seems to be it.
I have read all the books published by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller up to now, and this is actually the only one I was ever disappointed with. It has lots of flaws, in my opinion, and not all of them can be excused with the fact that this is part of an unfinished series. The characters are often very stereotypical and flat, the one interesting character that shows promise, Orned, doesn't play that big a role, and you have several classical too-stupid-to-live situations, which is something that generally gets on my nerves. It's also quite boring since it's mostly a series of places where Jerel and company stay for a short time until they have to run again, and none of these places are developed to a point where they could get interesting. The same goes for supporting characters. I'm reminded of a mediochre action-movie, typical popcorn cinema only in writing. 'Sword of Orion' is a novel meant for young adults, a genre in which Lee and Miller usually don't write, which might explain why it's not up to their usually high standards. But there are many science fiction books for young adults that still have depth and interesting characters (e. g. by Robert A. Heinlein), so I think they could have done a better job. With it's general flaws and the fact that it's an unfinished series, I personally would recommend this book only if you're an avid fan of these authors and want to have every single book written by them. Otherwise I don't think it's worth buying.

Not Free SF Reader
I presume this is supposed to be a kid's adventure novel, with the 2 main characters being kids on the run with an uncle, parents were rebel leaders, etc., etc.Good enough for that, but very lightweight otherwise, barring a few gates and some fun ways to take out a space fleet.A few too many aliens talk like they just came off the set of the Dark Crystal, though.

How much $$$ for how many pages???
288 pages for $9.72 !! And this is only the beginning of a series - not even a stand alone.I am not exactly reviewing the novel - although I will say I felt it was writen more for 'young adult' and found it lacking...possibly I just couldn't get past the high sticker price for such a slim book.Do the authors purposefully do this - the larger paperback at a higher price not to mention being nearly half the size in length of some standard scifi / fantasy out there - or is it the publishers?Whichever way, I will not come back to continue this story at this price...and I didn't even pay the retail amount for it!

Sword of Orion
Sharon and Steve - what happened?

Like many others I love the Liaden Universe.This is not it - this isn't even equal to a spider-man book!Yes, it ends with a cliff hanger (actually it just ends abruptly) - but frankly I don't care!I will not bother with the second part of the series.

There were very few plot twists - mostly they run and keep getting caught.These people are supposed to be supremely smart and have survived undercover as revolutionaries for years, but haven't been able to figure that the bad guys keep finding them way too easy!

I would suggest not reading this book and instead go read the real thing (Liaden Universe) or some Linnea Sinclair.

Good YA adventure.
Take notice of the dedication page please. This is, IMO, a Hardy Boy's In Space 'young adult' adventure. It should have been labled such by the publisher. I wonder if they were trying to suck in Liaden fans. If so, it may backfire on Sharon and Steve by causing new readers to think the Liaden books are similar.

I've read all of their Liaden books, starting in 1988 with Conflict of Honors, one of the best.Take it from me, the Liaden books are in a class of their own. An exalted class. ... Read more

Product Description
Here’s what really happens on the lower decks of the space ship and in the castle kitchen! This unique collection of science fiction and fantasy short stories focuses on characters that are normally treated as background or secondary and brings them to the forefront of the adventure! Low Port features stories by Mark Tiedemann, Laura J. Underwood, L. E. Modesitt, Jr., Nathan Archer, Jody Lynn Nye and many others, including a new urban fantasy by Sharon Lee! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Bottom Feeders and Other Low Life
Low Port (2003) is an SF anthology about people living on the edge.It contains twenty short stories, an introduction and an appendix on the authors.

- Introduction by Sharon and Steve Miller describes the genesis and production of this volume.

- Voyeur by Eric Witchey is about a man addicted to a view.

- Digger Don't Take No Requests by John Teehan concerns a man who is trying to reach the stars.

- The Gate Between Hope and Glory by Holly Phillips exposes a tyranny in a little known part of the universe.

- Riis Run by eluki bes shalar tells of the life of an enforcer.

- Bidding the Walrus by Lawrence M. Schoen confronts a businessman with a strange gift.

- The Gift by Laura Underwood develops humility in a healer.

- The Dock to Heaven by L. E, Modesitt, Jr. gives an opportunity to an infosnark.

- Find a Pin by Ru Emerson changes a young woman's life.

- Sailing to the Temple by Alan Smale considers the consequences of just saying no.

- The Pilgrim Trade by Mark W. Tiedermann discloses the misery of those left behind.

- More to Glory by Patrice Surath brings a friend home from far places.

- Gonna Boogie with Granny Time by Sharon Lee depicts the fate of a womanizer.

- Angel's Kitchen by Chris Szego examines the perseverance of those serving the unfortunate.

- Lair of the Lesbian Love Goddess by Edward McKeown discloses the effects of ambition on a police officer.

- Contraband by Nathan Archer addresses the limits of corruption in a customs agent.

- Spinarce's War by Lee Martindale leads a self-centered man to his just deserts.

- Bottom of the Food Chain by Jody Lynn Nye divulges the truth behind the recovery of a very expensive bit of biology.

- Zappa for Bardog by Joe Murphy introduces the strange talent of abiotechnological creation.

- The Times She Went Away by Paul E. Martens illustrates the effects of a relativistic universe on those left behind.

- Scream Angel by Douglas Smith provides a solution to a very unusual addiction.

- Meet the Authors includes brief biographies of the authors and their descriptions of the stories.

These stories dwell on the underbelly of society.Many are unusual and even cryptic.Some are pessimistic and others are optimistic.But most have a final bit of hope.

Recommended for SF and Fantasy fans who enjoy tales of bottom feeders in or around spaceports.

-Arthur W. Jordin

Not worth the price of shipping
I have been a fan of Sharon Lee and Steve Miller, but I feel ripped off with this collection.Truly it was as if they chose horrible short stories so as not to outshine their own rather uninspired story.While there were 4 worth reading and enjoyable, considering that left 16 that ranged from boring to painful to almost incomprehensible... do yourself a favor, don't bother.

great anthology
I haven't read any Liaden universe stories, or indeed anything, by Sharon Lee and Steven Miller, so I don't have any preconceptions about that.Usually if I buy an anthology I buy it for one story by a favourite author.This was a bit more expensive, but it had stories by two favourite authors (Holly Phillips and eluki bes shahar) and was on sale, so I risked it.I have been very pleasantly surprised.eluki bes shahar has a story from the Hellflower universe featuring Butterly St. Cyr, which is wonderful, and Holly Phillips' story is different and well-written, as always.I very much enjoyed three stories by people I'd never heard of, 'Angel's Kitchen' by Chris Szego, 'Lair of the Lesbian Love Goddess' by Edward McKeown (an incredibly funny cop story), and 'Contraband' by Nathan Archer.I haven't even finished all of the stories, but any anthology that has 5 really good stories in it is definitely all right in my book.More authors to search for!Yay!

not that interesting
I had great expectations for that book based on the glimpses of "low ports life" in Liaden Universe books. Unfortunately, it is nowhere close to those. The stories are more typical for young starting writers - the plots over complicated, the styles overly dramatic and there is usually a "profound message" in most of them that is (in more stories than not) explained to a reader just in case the poor sod misses it on his/her own. Not a single story stuck in mind, in fact I would be hard pressed to name even one or two (or their authors). Pity, could have been a nice fast and energetic reading if the authors combined had a bit more trust in their readers.

Save your Money
This is a Horrible collection of Very Short stories- established authors in it should hide their heads in shame...Most of the stories are Just not readable or coherent....I wondered on the few I TRIED to read exactly what language they are written in?? I bought it because I love Sharon Lee/Steve Miller books- their short story in this book is the Pits...- I couldn't even finish it! Imagination is one thing- readability is another when I am Paying- this was a Total waste of money- hopefully some poor misguided reader will buy it off my Ebay listing to get rid of it so I will the money to buy a BOOK. ... Read more

Product Description
In 1847, Marjory Turner struggles with the difficult journey west to the Oregon Territory. On the cusp of womanhood, she is ill equipped to deal with the hardships of her father's death and her mother's mysteriously irrational behavior as she is forced to take on the responsibility of her much younger siblings. But the trials strengthen Marjory, and she quickly matures into an independent, patient and compassionate young woman. Then, with her mother's death, she must face even more difficult decisions, and find a new destiny for herself and her family. With the help of Walter Wilkins, the young man assigned to drive their team, Marjory must find a courage equal to the task ahead and the strength to accept what may be the hardest thing of all - true love.

Sharon Lee Thomas was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and has always been fascinated with the epic story of the Oregon Trail. She recently traded her beloved Victorian home for a modern condo on Puget Sound. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

fine Americana character study
In 1847 on the trail to the Oregon Territory, Marjory Turner has no time to mourn the death of her beloved father.The wagon-master informs her mother that the Turner family will be dropped off at Fort Bridger, Wyoming Territory as no one has the time to help them in the long run to continue westward.There they will join a party heading east.Marjory is upset as that will destroy her father's dream, but has no say in the matter.

As her estranged mother's behavior turns bizarre, Marjory takes over caring for her younger three siblings, the oldest being only eight years old.The wagon-master assigns Walter Wilkins to temporarily assist the Turner family.He and Marjory are attracted to one another, but her concerns are for her brothers and sister because now their mom has died too.

NEW BEGINNINGS is a fine Americana character study that brings to life the trials and tribulations of those struggling westward on the Oregon Trail.The story line focuses on the coming of age of Marjory expedited by the death of her father and the peculiar behavior of her mother (before her death).Marjory's observations of those in her circle changes as she grows into her new role of nurturer.This is a fine tale that brings fans along for the harrowing trek to Oregon.

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description
Some of this countrys most imaginative and influential thinkers explore questions such as how science gains authority to direct truth practices, the boundaries between humans and machines, and how science, technology, and medicine contribute to the fashioning of selves. Fieldwork sites include a prenatal sonogram clinic, an inner-city AIDS clinic, a center for brain imaging technology, and a particle physics lab. ... Read more

Product Description
Not officially a "Liaden Universe® Adventure", Calamity's Child is SRM Publisher's first chapbook of 2006 and features two Sharon Lee and Steve Miller stories ...one is the off-the-beaten track Liaden Universe® novelette "Sweet Waters," which appeared in magazines in both the UK and the US (3SF and Absolute Magnitude), and the second is "Night at the Opera," a fantasy-mystery first seen in the critcally acclaimed Rosemary Edghill anthology Murder by Magic in October of 2004. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A brilliant way to cry
This is a very thin publication; I regretted paying $14 for it, mostly because it's so small. But I love it to pieces and it's followed me through three moves-of-house. The story made me cry, but I have a soft spot for children. Lesson: sometimes things don't turn out as well. ... Read more

Product Description
You can't go home again... What do you do when home is a conspiracy that's been discovered and destroyed? When home is a planet in a star system that's gone missing? When home means working for the destroyers of galaxies? When home is a spaceship that's calling out to the enemy? Cantra 'yos Phelium isn't a quitter, but she has more than a little problem: the Enemy has accelerated its attacks and how do you fight an Enemy whose major form of attack is the de-crystallization of everything around itself? A smuggler with a rogue soldier for a co-pilot, and a tree with an attitude for crew, Cantra's the only one who can get close to the man who holds equations that might, that just might - thwart the Enemy. All she has to do is help a young pilot from a missing world, juggle a slippery promise she never quite made to a pair of wizards, and then forget who she is along with everything, and everyone, she's ever known.Amazon.com Review
A Letter from Anne McCaffrey about Crystal Dragon:

Every now and then you come across an author, or in this case, a pair, who write exactly what you want to read, the characters and personalities that make you enjoy meeting them.Apart from my passion for Kim by Rudyard Kipling, I had read some authors whose books I would buy the moment they came on sale (thanks to Amazon’s policy and pre-ordering facility) and then there are the precious few who sit in honor on my comfort shelf.The books I reach for when something in life has become intolerable.And I rediscover the joy that had infused me at the first reading.Such a book was "Agent of Change" first published by Del Rey. When I had finished, hungering for more, I got in touch with Shelly Shapiro, my editor at Del Rey and, prayers answered, she had the manuscript for "Conflict of Honors" on her desk.I beseeched her to send me a copy asap…my hunger for more of the Liaden Universe so intense.She did. However, I had to wait for the third of that first series: "Carpe Diem!"

I found out that Steve and Sharon had published chap books on the Liaden universe, Val Con and Miri Roberson, Shan yos ‘Galan and Priscilla. Sharon and Steve are always throwing you quips like that and reading them is all the more enjoyable for them. So I bought those as they were published. Some of them are now also published in hard cover. The only trouble with the chap books is that while they sort out one problem, or elaborate on a special character, they are not very long.

Then I discovered that Meisha Merlin was going to continue the series. I was delighted to get a hard-cover of "Partners in Necessity" which is the three single titles mentioned above…then we have more good chunks of Liaden in "Pilot’s Choice" which contains the two titles "Local Custom" and "Scout’s Progress".Following them, is "Plan B", which has the most devious plot and then on to "I Dare".Which is gorgeous.And then, for dessert, "Balance of Trade"…and the tales of "Low Port".

What fascinates me most about Lee and Miller as a team is how well blended they are, with a structured society that is almost Chinese in its adherence to custom…the graciousness of the language is always a delight (something I wish I had phrased as aptly).I can certainly see the Tree in my mind’s eye, spreading its ancient leaves over the valley it protects and the people it cherishes.And now these authors have come up with another pair of characters and a new chapter in the history of Liaden…"Crystal Soldier". Better yet, it says on the title page Book One of the Great Migration Duology.So, Happy Day, it means another book is coming "Crystal Dragon". Hurrrah. The hero is M. Jela Granthor’s Guards, and the heroine is Cantra: names which will have significance to those who have already entered the magic of Liaden.

I rarely rave on and on about stories, but I am devoted to Lee and Miller novels and stories.Start at the beginning, dear reader, and you will be rewarded with a sanctuary you can escape to, as I do when this world we’re stuck with is impossible to endure.

Anne McCaffrey, Dragonhold-Underhill, Co Wicklow Ireland. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Great Migration Fizzles
I've read Sharon Lee and Steve Miller's Liad books voraciously. I loved them so much, I bought this book in hard cover. I just couldn't wait for the paperback to come out! I shouldn't have bothered.

In the authors' defense, there's a lot of expectation for this book. It's the second part of the foundation legend of Liad. It has to "explain everything". Instead, it's plagued with continuity errors.

The characters are engaging enough (they were introduced in Book 1), which I thought was a better book. The setting is still fun. The problem is the premise.

In this book, the universe is being destroyed by super-evolved humans who want to remake it in their own image. As hard as it is to believe any race or species could all agree to destroy the universe, that the protagonists escape into a new universe is more ridiculous. Yet even that I would accept, if other planets were never described in previous books.

If the entire universe was destroyed, the first new planet to be inhabited would be the new "progenitor planet". Earth (a planet mentioned in earlier books) would be gone, and after a few generations, likely forgotten.Also, artifacts (again, mentioned earlier) of the super-evolved humans are unlikely to end up in the new universe. Soon, these too would be forgotten.

If you love Liad, let the foundation remain mysterious. If you haven't read the other books yet, go do it! They're great! Just not this one.

Really Disappointed
Mostly a rehash of Crystal Soldier.Very little, if any, new content.I usually love the Miller and Lee books, but this is an exception.Not up to the standard that I expect from them.If you have Crystal Soldier don't waste your money on this one.

The Prequel We've All Been Waiting For
Cantra and Jela have decided on the only way to avoid being killed by the Enemy: run away as far and as fast as possible. In order to do this, they need the help of a brilliant theoretical mathematician to help them get the coordinates to the impossible: another galaxy altogether.

As always, Lee and Miller immerse you in their amazingly complex cultures without a lot of exposition. You have to be sharp, or willing to reread them, to pick up on all the layers of events and details embedded in these books.

I encourage anyone and everyone who loves action, adventure, or a nice love story to pick up this series. I recommend these equally to men and women, and to people who like science fiction and those who usually don't.

Crystal Soldier is a must to understand what is going on in this book. I would recommend reading the Agent of Change sequence before these, but it could probably be done without, especially since Ace canceled the reprint of most of them.

Favorite details: where the dramaliz come from (Shan has the soul of a planet-killer?!) and the first in Korval's long and prestigious line of cats.

in the begining part 2
This is the second part to a great start to the universe we love,no point reading it unless you have the other Crystal book order them together.more of the ending would be welcome.

Facinating premise
Very interesting premise with characters you can relate to. A good story in itself but leaves you wanting more. ... Read more

Product Description
Meisha Merlin is pleased to present two never-before published Liaden Universe(TM) novels, Local Custom and Scout's Progress, in one omnibus edition entitled Pilots Choice.

Pilots Choice deals with the shifting necessities of honor and morality in the clash of cultures caused by an expanding galactic trade system.

In the first novel, Local Custom, we view the difficulties caused by the obvious problems of language and custom as Terrans and Liadens intermingle. In the second, Scout's Progress, we see how the forces of interstellar trade cause conflicts even within the apparently monolithic and superior culture of Liad as a greater culture, galactic in nature, is hinted at by the Scouts, pilots, and traders who inhabit the fringes of Liad's polite society.

In both novels it is the importance of individuals and their insistence on behaving with honor, rather than bowing to overwhelming social force, that drives the story.

Local Custom

Master Trader Er Thom yos'Galan, of Liad's de facto ruling house, Clan Korval, is facing an arranged marriage. The Liaden Code of Proper Conduct requires him—and every Liaden—to provide a ‘child of the body' to the Clan, something the otherwise obedient pilot has been avoiding despite Korval's precariously dwindling population. As his ‘contract marriage' approaches, the serious-minded trader finds himself longing for a lover he hasn't seen (or heard from!) for years.

His former lover is no ordinary pleasure love: She's Terran professor of linguistics Anne Davis, who teaches on the planet University and whose radical theories have brought her to the attention of the Liaden Council of Clans, where Korval's enemies openly plot against her—and against Korval itself.

Challenged and supported by his foster brother, Er Thom must not only surmount Liad's rigid social strictures, but overcome the plots of Korval's enemies—and his lover's stubborn heart.

Scout's Progress

Daav yos'Phelium, Delm Korval, the planet's most powerful individual, must marry to provide his Clan with a child. Although he is arguably the most eligible bachelor in Liaden-speaking space he is hardly the most willing, having long been the target of marriage-minded females as well as their power-seeking mothers, fathers, aunts and uncles.

A political and economic power among the High Houses, Daav, a former Scout Captain, is also a force among pilots, and is much more likely to be found in a spaceport piloting ‘dive' than mingling with society at the parties of the rich.

One such ‘dive' is Binjali Spaceship Repair Shop in Solcintra Mid-Port; it's a base away from home to a shifting population of Scouts, pilots, and various ‘wounded kittens'. There, Daav is known only by his first name, and relies on his reputation as pilot extraordinaire rather than Korval's power.

Retreating to Binjali's to come to terms with his decision to contract-wed, Daav comes face to face with the knottiest problem of his career, and if he doesn't find the correct solution, he may lose his fortune entire, and his future.Amazon.com Review
Lee and Miller mix a compelling fictional society governed by a strict code of honor with romantic, funny, touchingly real characters and greatstorytelling in Pilots Choice. Its two tales are prequels to Partners in Necessity, thelong-awaited reprinting of their first three novels, Conflict ofHonors, Agent of Change, and Carpe Diem. You need nothave read their other books before diving into this one.But be warned:you may read straight through until you've finished the sequel toPartners, PlanB.

In Local Custom, Er Thom yos'Galen is at odds with his duty: tomatch with a proper Liaden bride and provide clan Korval with an heir. His mother observes, "You have consistently refused every contract-alliancethe head of your line has brought to your attention for the past threeyears. Permit me to wonder why."

Er Thom can't forget Terran scholar Anne Davis, though they agreed to part.Revisiting her one last time he finds Shan yos'Galen, his son.Shan needsLiaden training and Korval needs his skills. Anne loves Er Thom and knowshe risks his melant'i (honor, reputation) if he takes a Terran wife.Butshe won't be parted from her son.

Er Thom and Anne are aided by Er Thom's cousin and foster brother, the Delm (head) of Korval, Daav yos'Phelium.Scout's Progress finds Daav facing contract-marriage himself.Then he meets Aelliana Caylon, a giftedmathematician who needs a pilot's license.Daav becomes her copilot andinstructor.Aelliana begins to plan a future far from Liad and hersadistic older brother, Ran Eld, heir to the Delm of her clan. She doesn'tknow that her friend Daav can't leave with her, and is promised to anotherwoman.

These are SF and fantasy books. Lee and Miller are masterworld-builders: the pilot culture, the intricate web of Liaden custom, theportrayals of the "three" races (Liaden, Terran, and Yxtrang), and thedetailed history gradually revealed all attest to their skills.Moreover,there's plenty of action and adventure here, and no painfully graphic sexscenes. If you enjoy witty banter between characters, social andpolitical intrigue, and "tales of love and glory" set in intergalacticspace, don't miss these books. --Nona Vero ... Read more

Customer Reviews (38)

The Perils of Lifemating
Pilot's Choice (2001) is an SF omnibus in the Liaden Universe series, including Local Custom and Scout's Progress.These tales feature two members of the Korval Clan and are set on Liad and Terra.

Local Custom (2000) is the first novel in this series by internal chronology, but the fourth novel published.Er Thom yos'Galan is caught in an emotional and moral bind:Liaden law requires him to provide children to the clan, yet he is infatuated with a Terran woman that he had met several years before on Proziski.After a whirlwind affair, the two had parted, with Er Thom returning to his ship and trade route.

Now that his clan has demanded his child, Er Thom finds himself unable to become interested in any other woman.In a spirit of desperation, he borrows a ship from his foster brother and tracks down Anne Davis at her university.Their affair resumes immediately, as if no time has passed.

But then Anne introduces Er Thom to their son, Shan yos'Galan.Suddenly their love affair runs afoul of a difference in customs.To Er Thom, the boy is a child of Clan Korval and Line yos'Galen and must be presented to the delm and thodelm to be accepted into the clan and line.Anne doesn't see him quite that way.

Anne considers Shan as her child, with Er Thom only the sperm donor.She refuses his offer of a contract marriage, seeing it as only another temporary fling.

Scout's Progress (2000) is the fifth SF novel in this series.Aelliana Caylon is a Scholar in Subrational Mathematics at Chonselta Technical College.She teaches a course in Practical Mathematics -- Math for Survival -- to Scout Academy students and is well liked by her classes.

Aelliana makes the mistake of disagreeing with a financial recommendation by Ran Eld.He challenges her, but their mother -- the Delm of Mizel -- thinks that there is some truth to her arguments.She orders Ran Eld to allow Aelliana to invest her quarter share as she wishes and to track the progress.

Aelliana presents the student Scouts with a practical problem with parameters defined by themselves and requires them to document the solution by the next class.Later she encounters two of her students while she is wandering the streets in thought.They invite her to their table, wine and dine her, and then take her into the new casino.

Aelliana observes the play of hands at a Pikit table.When the holder of the table invites her to sit and play, she seats herself.When the matter of stakes is raised, she puts forth her quarter share, but he is persuaded to risk his ship.

Aelliana plays skillfully and wins.The ship is docked at the Binjali Garage.It is soon registered in her name and she can take possession the following day.She drops by to see her ship and gets a personal tour by the owner of the facility.

She is pleased to see that Ride the Luck is a jump ship.Now she has to get a Second Class Pilot license and to learn Terran so that she can become independent.First she takes the test for a Second Class license and passes.

Her license will be Provisional until she has acquired sufficient hours of piloting a ship.When she comes to ask Jon to tutor her on ship handling, Daav is on duty by himself.He has a package to deliver on Outyard Eight, so he acts as her copilot as they fly to the station.

These stories illustrate the differences between Liaden and Terran cultures.Since Terra has an emphasis on the individual and Liad stress the importance of the Clans, similar social problems will generally require different responses.Daav says that Liaden are predators and are always alert to weaknesses.

One difference is in marriage customs.On Liaden, most people have short-term contract marriages to produce heirs.Some Liaden clans get the bulk of their income from the funds generated by such contracts.

Another difference is the widespread incidence of telempathy and other paranormal talents among the Liaden.Rarely, a Liaden couple will be so closely linked through such talents that they can always sense the feelings of the other.Such couples normally become lifemates.

Recommended for Lee & Miller fans and for anyone who enjoys tales of alien cultures, personal conflict, and true romance.If anyone is not familiar with this series, the initial volume is Agent of Change.

-Arthur W. Jordin

Great Story in Liaden Universe
I am new to the Liaden universe and have, over the past several weeks, read all the novels I could get my hands on."Pilots Choice" was my first introduction to the novels and I found both stories very entertaining, containing action, romance and humor.Being a hugh fan of Georgette Heyer, having read all of her work, I was drawn to the Liaden stories when another reviewer made an anaolgy between the two styles of writing.I highly recommend Pilots Choice for anyone who enjoys a great story, with interesting characters, who you can get to know quickly.Highest praise to Sharon Lee & Steve Miller - why can't we find these great books at our local book store?

Absolutely Wonderful - Don't Miss This One!
Pilot's Choice is an omnibus of two novels: Local Custom & Scout's Progress, both of which are prequels to Partners in Necessity.

Local Custom:Er Thom yos'Galan, Master Trader and Heir to Clan Korval knew his duty to his clan - to provide the Clan with a child of his own body. He also knew that he could never offer a contract wife the care and attention his honor demanded until he had seen Anne Davis one last time. Then he would seek the Healers on Liad and they would erase all of his memories of the woman who had captured his heart...

Anne, a Terran and brilliant linguist had met Er Thom years before and had a wonderful affair with him, falling head over heels in love, but knowing that he would leave her, as he had. What Anne did not tell Er Thom was that she bore his child, her precious Shan. She never expected to see Er Thom again and was stunned when he walked in to her apartment. They both found that their love was as deep and fierce as it had ever been and Er Thom found that he did not know how to say goodbye. Then Shan returned home and Er Thom found himself with an even bigger problem than before. For Shan was Er Thom's heir, but as a half Liaden, half Terran, there was no guarantee that he would be accepted by the Clan and the Tho'Delm, Er Thom's mother. Er Thom knew that there would be a sacrifice to make in the time ahead of him, a sacrifice that would rip his heart to shreds. For the tho'Delm had rejected Shan and refused to even consider that Er Thom had a future with Anne and so he was faced with the difficult choice of weighing his honor and the honor of his clan against the love he could not live without...

Scout's Progress:Aelliana Caylon learned the hard way that she was powerless in her Clan. At first, she tried to defy her brother, Van Eld, when he attempted to exercise his authority over her as the next Delm, but after her first and only contract marriage to Van Eld's abusive friend, Aelliana no longer rebelled. She learned to feign meekness and remain quiet except when she was teaching her advanced math class to the irrepressible pilots in training at the academy. She had value at the university and was readily acknowledged as one of the most brilliant mathematicians of her day. When one of her pilot students convinced her to play a game of chance at a new gaming palace, Aelliana used her math skills to beat the cardshark and found herself the proud owner of a ship - and her chance to leave Liaden forever...

But before Aelliana could leave Liaden, she had to get her pilot's license. Luckily, she was docked at Binjali's, where the pilots were irreverent and surprising, but genuinely friendly. Before she knew it, Aelliana found herself adopted in to a kind of family where her skills were valued and her opinion was asked. She quickly found herself looking forward to her lessons with Master Pilot Daav, who challenged her to become more and to take risks. What she did not know was that her quirky co-pilot was in fact Daav yos'Phelium, the Delm of Korval and arguably the most powerful man on the planet. She also did not know that Daav was in negotiations for a contract marriage or she never would have let herself fall in love with him....

I found the Liaden culture fascinating and loved learning more about the customs and mindset of these people. Lee and Miller have done a fabulous job at creating this universe and making their characters absolutely believable. I loved all of the characters and felt that I could identify with all of them in a different way. All of them have their strengths and weaknesses and all of them had their own part to play in the game. Although the romance of the two main characters in each book is a large part of the plot, the world building, the characterization, attention to detail and the excellent quality of writing kept me absolutely riveted - I couldn't put this book down!

Good Start
This was my first foray into the Liaden universe and I can honestly say I enjoyed it immensely.Both novels had me hooked by the last 100 pages of each.This book does a good job of forming the universe, I feel like I have an understanding of the conventions in which the characters have to work.My disclaimer for this review is that I like SF not necessarily Romance.

At first I thought I would prefer Scout's Progress to Local Custom because SP on the surface has more SF elements to its plotting.After reading both, I actually preferred LC to SP.It is primarily due to the fact that LC has superior characterizations and a more engaging premise.All in all for me, a well written, richly detailed and superb characterization is more important than which genre fits best.

The Liaden universe (at least in these 2 novels) is filled w/ damsels in distress and knights in shining armor.A little cliched for my tastes especially SP.I find myself wondering about the misogynistic undertones of the stories.I will definitely read more in the series before coming to any conclusions, however, these two books are definitely leaning in that direction.

An interesting read, but I believe I haven't read the best that these authors have to offer yet.I am looking forward to reading them more.

You'll keep coming back...
...to this amazing universe. I have read this particualr omnibus, (as well as Partners in Necessity) probably 4 times in the past year-and-a-half, not only for the sheer enjoyment of the stories but for the added insights/revelations I continue to glean about the main characters and their world(s). The authors have done a fabulous job of character/society/world-building that immerses the reader completely.
Admittedly, I initially favored "Scout's Progress" over "Local Custom", but my most recent rereading made me realize that although each is a fine stand alone novel in its own right, the two complement and complete each other perfectly, much like Er Thom and Anne, Daav and Aelianna. I have become increasingly selective of the titles I purchase; I love books that I get the urge to pick up and read again every year or so. These have me diving back in within a matter of months. Buy this series if you enjoy intelligent, rollicking space opera, romantic but not cloyingly so, with an undercurrent of ever-present danger and potential violence.

Addendum: To be fair, there were one or two small plot holes that I felt weren't adequately resolved, but in the overall scheme of things, the excellent storytelling renders them insignificant. ... Read more

Product Description
Two short stories "Veil of the Dancer" and "Quiet Knives". "Veil of the Dancer" first appeared in the magazine Absolute Magnitude. This is the first appearance of "Quiet Knives". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Description of Item since Amazon took it down
Two short stories "Veil of the Dancer" and "Quiet Knives". "Veil of the Dancer" first appeared in the magazine Absolute Magnitude. This is the first appearance of "Quiet Knives". ... Read more

Product Description
Think all heroes have washboard abs?Think all heroines wear Size 3 Junior Petite?Think again!Come join Gene Wolfe, Elizabeth Anne Scarborough, Jane Yolen, Jody Lynn Nye, and Sharon Lee & Steve Miller, who along with nineteen other authors, introduce you to some of the funniest, wildest, sexiest, most powerful, and normal (considering these are science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories) fat people on earth and a few other planets.Meet a pirate named "Valkyrie" and a cardsharp named "Fat Moriah". Meet a xeno-fitness instructor and an earth-mage who don't apologize for taking up space. Meet fat cats on a mission and a very different kind of vampire. Meet characters for whom "plus-size" is about body size and heart.Brought together in this first-of-its-kind collection are stories that raise the set point on adventure and redraw the picture of "the hero" along the way. Tales of power and abundance that prove that heroes and heroines come in all sizes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Unique and Exciting
"Such A Pretty Face" puts more than just a new look at an old stereotype.Editor Lee Martindale has put together an amazing collection of size-positive short stories to celebrate a new era of heroes.With contributions from both well-established authors to new-comers in the genre, these stories are inspiring and entertaining.They affirm the beauty and abilities of a snubbed majority - the person of size.This collection is ground-breaking, exciting, and long overdue, but has been well worth the wait...and weight.

Great read - I hope it becomesa series!
No, I haven't any reason to think it will be a series, but I can hope, can't I?

I ran across the book back in July and fell in with the cover painting. Then I saw that it was edited by Lee Martindale, someone I remembered encountering (and respecting) in the size acceptance newsgroups. At that point I probably would have bought it no matter what, but the theme of the anthology cinched it.

I finished it within 48 hours of getting it, and it was wonderful. As usual with any anthology, I enjoyed some stories more than others. I think "Demon Bone" by Teresa Noelle Roberts had to be my favorite story. The poem "Fat Is Not A Fairy Tale" by Jane Yolen and Elizabeth Ann Scarborough's story "Worse Than The Curse" were awfully good, though :-) Paula L. Fleming's "Polyformus Perfectus" left me wishing it were the beginning of a novel rather than a short story.

I've already recommended this book to quite a few people, but I have a feeling I'll be handing it out to more. I'll probably buy a hardback copy to keep and loan out the paperback, but I'll be buying some copies to give as gifts as well.

And if I EVER find a print of the cover painting by Doug Beekman, it's going in a place of honor in my living room.

Fat is beautiful...and funny.
This is an anthology about fat people published by Meisha MerlinPublishing.Such SF/F luminaries as Jody Lynn Nye, Gene Wolfe, Jane Yolen,Elizabeth Ann Scarborough, K.D. Wentworth, and a host of others present alook at another view of the hero. A princess is cursed, and starts anew fashion trend, a sizeable selkie is the love of a man's life, aforty-year-old fat bi . . . uh, woman rediscovers the joy of creation on alonely dirt road, and a couple of truly fat cats are far more than theyappear.These and more stories just as exciting grace the pages of thisthoughtful, wildly funny, and excellent volume of stories.

A great concept, and terrific stories
I ended up staying up far too late the night I got this book, because I kept telling myself I'd just read one more.The stories were well-written (I especially loved "Worse than the Curse" and "CastingAgainst Type"), and while the theme was definitely evident in all thestories, it was not hammered in.A touch of spice, rather than anoverwhelming topnote.

Size should not be an issue!
I found Such A Pretty Face a delightful romp from one end to the other.I very much enjoyed the concept that someone's size is irrelevant to their personality and abilities.The characters were people first andfat/large/whatever second, something I think more characters (and people)should try.I intend to buy many copies to give as gifts and wouldrecommend this book to anyone who is tired of the fat versus thinstereotypes.These stories prove that there is more to people than justtheir packaging. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

build a theatre
I read this book preliminary to building a professional (equity) theatre in a rural area where theatre did not exist. I found the book most helpful although it should be updated and was probably more useful for urban venues. It showed me (I had very limited knowledge) what could be done and provided a template of items to consider.
The book is worthy but is inadequate to the overall task of creating a theatre or determining whether a particular space is sufficient. It provides a good start but much more expertise is needed to avoid numerous pitfalls. There's nothing like having done it (we have now build our theatre twice having relocated). Our theatre (the Chenango River Theatre in Greene, NY) is a success in every regard. This book provides valuable information regarding the physical structure which is generally one basic requirement of any theatre project. ... Read more

Product Description
Centuries in the past, mankind fought a seemingly unbeatable adversary from sector to sector across the Spiral Arm until the war ground to a standstill and the Enemy withdrew. Believing that they had won, the citizens of the galaxy rebuilt. The Inner Worlds, which had escaped the worst of the war's ravages, became even more insular, while the Rim worlds adopted a free and easy way with law and order.Now, hundreds of years after their withdrawal, the Enemy is back - and this time they'll be satisfied with nothing less than the extinction of the galaxy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

The Prequel We've All Been Waiting For
Jela is a soldier who is fighting against an Enemy so advanced, they consume whole planets using supernatural powers. But this planet, this system, has yet to fall. Stranded on the surface of this desert planet, Jela finds the remains of massive trees, dead now, but evidence shows they had been growing, defiant, long after the planet's ecosystem had deteriorated. By the time he reaches the last tree, a tiny sapling hardly clinging to life, Jela is convinced that it was the trees that had kept the Enemy at bay. In exchange for the sapling's only seed-pod, Jela promises the tree that he will take it off the dying planet with him when his rescue comes. And so he does.

Cantra wasn't looking for a partner. She wasn't looking to get involved in the massive conflict slowly enveloping the galaxy. She wasn't looking for a trip out to the rim to save a wayward clone, and she certainly was not looking for a telepathic tree to adorn the bridge of her spaceship. And yet, that's what she's got.

As always, Lee and Miller immerse you in their amazingly complex cultures without a lot of exposition. You have to be sharp, or willing to reread them, to pick up on all the layers of events and details embedded in these books.

I encourage anyone and everyone who loves action, adventure, or a nice love story to pick up this series. I recommend these equally to men and women, and to people who like science fiction and those who usually don't.

This book and its sequel, Crystal Dragon, make more sense, I think, in light of the other Liaden books. They are certainly more fun since you get see everything hinted at in the later time period that did not quite make sense. And after reading these, Liaden fans should go back and reread the Agent of Change sequence and Balance of Trade - you get a completely different reading after you know what's going on from this time period. It might be possible to start reading the series here, but as they were written as prequels, I would recommend them as such, encouraging readers to start with Conflict of Honors or Agent of Change.

My favorite details: Jela running into fire to save the tree, and the tree telepathically telling all of the Uncle's hydroponic plants to die. And as much as we thought the Korval family crest was a cute symbol - it's 100% literal. As far as the tree is concerned, clan Korval really is its dragon, to protect and be protected.

Liaden universe
Wonderful story, as one would expect from Sharon Lee. I enjoy her Liaden Universerse books emmensely and this is one of the best.

You might want to have the 2nd volume at hand before reading the 1st volume!
Somehow, I only discovered these authors' "Liaden" series of very well written space opera with _Balance of Trade_. And this new one was written after that, so I seem to be working backwards. The protagonists this time are, first, M. Jela, a "generalist" and a very unusual sort of soldier, working to try to defeat an ancient enemy that has decided the universe would be a much tidier place without so many people and star systems in it. And it's not at all certain they can be defeated. Second, caught up in this struggle entirely against her will is Cantra vos'Phelium, a very specially-bred human and a ship's pilot of very considerable talent and ability. They come together by accident, join forces by necessity, and gradually come to depend on each other, and it all happens in an entirely believable way. Then there's the third member of the crew -- an intelligent and telepathic tree, rescued from a dying world by Jela. All this seems to have taken place in the distant past, incidently, as seen from the perspective of _Balance of Trade_ -- which makes it a prequel, sort of. The dialogue -- both spoken and unspoken -- is skillfully done and the descriptions are crisp and vivid. The plotting is also nicely thought out. My only complaint is that this is the first half of a two-decker and the ending is very abrupt. I HATE cliffhangers! (Patience, patience. . . .)

ADDENDUM: Okay, having subsequently read all the earlier novels set in the Liaden universe, I now understand that Jela and Cantra are the near-mythic founders of Liad itself, Cantra being the captain of the ship that transports the refugee clans to their new home -- all this subsequent to the action in _Crystal Soldier_ (maybe in the second volume), but a thousand years in the past from the perspective of the _Agent of Change_ sub-series.

Liaden Universe Prequel
If you have read any of the earlier books, you have seen references to Jela's Tree - a tree with illusions of mysticism.Get to the root of the mystery in this novel of the early years of the Liaden Universe when Jela first encountered the tree.As always, the authors deliver great characters andintriguing plot lines.This book and its conclusion, Crystal Dragon, are well worth the price!

Science fiction
This story was good and the characters well developed.It kept my interest and provoked interesting thought. ... Read more

Product Description
The Yule, 2009 Lee and Miller chapbook is Halfling Moon, and contains two stories: Hidden Resources and Moon on The Hills ... This is Adventures in The Liaden Universe Number 16. These stories are set after the end of Lee & Miller's I Dare, with one taking place largely in space and the other taking place largely on Surebleak. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Fun Sci Fi
This is one of several "fill-in" booklets of Sharon Lee and Steve Miller's.I enjoy the
series and the background books.They are OK as stand alone shorts, but more fun for series fans.

A chapbook is a pamphlet, and the stories fill in some blanks
This chapbook is available online from the publisher at [...] on their website. I wish it was a "real book" because a pamphlet seems kind of flimsy. So far it is still in one piece. And I was so happy to read a new Liaden story I probably would have bought a stone tablet written in ancient Egyptian and deciphered it. I have been waiting impatiently for what happens after the Liaden novel, "I Dare" and this chapbook fills in a few pieces. One story shows what happened to the children under Plan B and the second story explains how the tree found a new home but it is from the perspective of a Surebleak farmer. Hardcore Liaden fans will want to buy but a newcomer to the series will just be confused.

Another hit
This one fills in a few blanks in the Korval saga.
Sharon & Steve just keep getting better.
They are very fine craftspeople (is that a word?).
This one is great, I like "Misfits" too,
but they are both too short...

If you haven't tried The Liaden Universe, you are missing a fine treat.
My favorites so far are "I dare" (the conclusion of the first series)
and the start of a new sequence "Fledgeling" (followed by "Saltation" & "Ghostship").

Actually you can't go wrong, they are all good. These guys can write!
There are a few omnibus editions either out already (dragon variations) or out soon.

P.S. Saltation is a real word. If you don't believe me, check your dictionary.

Great Return to the Liaden Universe
The Yule 2009 chapbook includes two stories about the move to Surbleak. The first story from Lukan belTarda's viewpoint talks about protecting the children and moving them to Surbleak. We also hear from Quin as he worries about his father and becomes more aware of the danger to him because he is of Korval. The second story is about relocating the Tree and clan on Surbleak and is told from the viewpoint of a native. Both stories add to the richness and depth of the Liaden universe.
... Read more