Becalmed: A Diving Universe Short Novel

By: Kristine Kathryn Rusch

Narrated by: Flora Plumb

Mae, chief linguist on the Ivoire, heads adiplomatic mission to Ukhanda. Her handling of relations with the Quurzod lead to a battle that causes the Ivoire's anacapa drive to malfunction, stranding the ship in foldspace. Mae can't remember what she did wrong on the mission: all she knows is that she's one of the few survivors. If she doesn't recall it, she won't be able to prevent another disaster when the Ivoire escapes foldspace. If the Ivoire escapes foldspace. Because what no one talks about-and everyone fears-is that the Ivoire isbecalmed....forever.

One of theuntold stories in Kristine Kathryn Rusch's award-winning "Diving" universe, "Becalmed" stands alone-yet answers questions long-time readers might haveabout the history of the Fleet.

©2012 Kristine Kathryn Rusch (P)2012 Kristine Kathryn Rusch

All ways leave us wanting more.

Would you consider the audio edition of Becalmed: A Diving Universe Short Novel to be better than the print version?

I value both audio and printed books, I'd rather not debate that. If someone has a prejudice against a form of art, than it's their lose.

What did you like best about this story?

What I loved most was the optimistic fantasy that we humans will in the future be heroic, That we are intrinsically good people. I love the idea of flying and in space, it's a notch above soaring like a bird. I eat up long descriptions of futurist technology, aliens, creatures and cultures. Rusch's imagination and talent for story telling is heart pounding. Often I feel joy in a simple description, what might seem mundane, everyday items like a work station.

Best are her people, I feel the description of relationships. As if I'm in the room with them, I enjoy her strong heroines, without taking anything from the men. She is equitable to all people, making a near utopia that StarTrek trips at, as if wearing poorly fit shoes.

Which scene was your favorite?

The ending, very good.

Any additional comments?

Next time I write a review I will talk more about her writing and less like groupie.

Nice Short Story

This is a very good story...But what the heck does it have to do with the Diving Universe trilogy? Also the narration could have been better...No feeling in the voice of the narrator