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. Until they figure out a way back to Liad, these two lost souls must find a way to trust each other - and let their true love heal the dark wounds of their past.
Back on Liad, Shan yos'Galan, Val Con's cousin and foster brother, and his life-partner, Priscilla Mendoza, have initiated their own search for the missing member of Clan Korval. But what they don't know is that those who seek to destroy Val Con and Miri are just as determined to bring down Clan Korval. All the deadly enemy needs is someone to unwittingly lead them to their target....
©1989 Sharon Lee & Steve Miller (P)2012 Audible, Inc.
"You may never care about a cast of characters more or await their return with more anticipation." (SF Site)
"Full of action, exotic characters, plenty of plot, and even a touch of romance. Outstanding." (Booklist)
"Great Story -- Narration could be better"
Total Space Opera
It might sound strange, but I'd compare it to the Two Towers -- there's lots of characters running around, separated but working towards a common goal, with lots of action. The characters and the action continue in the next book, so the overall issues are not resolved in this single book. I hasten to add that the two books are totally different in the tone, pace, and world/universe. But I enjoy this book for many of the same reasons I like the Two Towers.
I have listened to Agent of Change before this one, so the answer is, "yes." However the issue I have with his female voices is more apparent in this book. And he sometimes seems to lose the characterization completely at times (Jeeves, Patricia). At some points, if I didn't know the book so well, it might be hard to keep track of who is talking. I love these books, so I'll continue to buy them despite this.
This book is one of my comfort books -- when I'm tired or unhappy. The combination of action and romance always makes me feel better.
A 50-something who loves sci-fi, cozy mysteries, thrillers, an occasional romance, and any genre if it is a good story. And especially if it makes me laugh! No vampires or zombies though - these are NOT sci-fi!
"Lost in space!"
The majority of this story described how Val Con and Miri survive after being stranded on an interdicted world, and the friends they made there. I love the Liadan Universe, and this is probably my favorite book of the series. There is a short story available for Kindle that describes a return visit to Vandar, for those who want to know more. The joy in music that Val Con, Miri, and Hakan share is inspiring!