Fans of Elizabeth Moon and Anne Leckie will love this first thrilling adventure in an epic space opera trilogy—set in a future where alien technology comes at a steep price: human life.
Aliens came to Earth 40 years ago. Their anatomy proved unfathomable and all attempts at communication failed. But through trade, humanity gained technology that allowed them to colonize the stars. The price: live humans for every alien faster-than-light drive.
Kara’s sister was one of hundreds exchanged for this technology, and Kara has little love for aliens. So when she is drafted by GalDiv—the organization that oversees alien trades—it is under duress. A group of colonists have been kidnapped by aliens and taken to an uncharted planet, and an unusual team is to be sent to negotiate. As an ex-army sniper, Kara’s role is clear. But artist Marc has no combat experience, although the team’s pre-cog Tse is adamant that he has a part to play. All three know that success is unlikely. For how will they negotiate with aliens when communication between the species is impossible?
“Matches the high notes of [Frederik] Pohl (Gateway) and Peter Watts (Blindsight) while adding enough new ideas to sing its own dissonant song.” —B&N SFF blog
"A dark look at what could be hiding in space waiting for us to let our guard down." —Booklist
“A tense, provocative story, which puts a truly original spin on the idea of intergalactic interaction. It’s plausible, unpredictable, and thoroughly entertaining as it sets the stage for future installments and even more questions.” —Publishers Weekly
“A unique world that happens to be familiar, great character development, a fun change for the human race, and fast pacing leaves this as one science fiction book that you’ll want to pick up!” —ScienceFiction.com
“One of the best original science fiction novels I’ve read. Alien races are again beyond the understanding of mankind and I couldn’t be happier. Highest possible recommendation.” —SciFi Pulse
Fans of Elizabeth Moon and Anne Leckie will love this first thrilling adventure in an epic space opera trilogy—set in a future where alien technology comes at a steep price: human life.
Aliens came to Earth 40 years ago. Their anatomy proved unfathomable and all attempts at communication failed. But through trade, humanity gained technology that allowed them to colonize the stars. The price: live humans for every alien faster-than-light drive.
Kara’s sister was one of hundreds exchanged for this technology, and Kara has little love for aliens. So when she is drafted by GalDiv—the organization that oversees alien trades—it is under duress. A group of colonists have been kidnapped by aliens and taken to an uncharted planet, and an unusual team is to be sent to negotiate. As an ex-army sniper, Kara’s role is clear. But artist Marc has no combat experience, although the team’s pre-cog Tse is adamant that he has a part to play. All three know that success is unlikely. For how will they negotiate with aliens when communication between the species is impossible?
Praise
“Matches the high notes of [Frederik] Pohl (Gateway) and Peter Watts (Blindsight) while adding enough new ideas to sing its own dissonant song.” —B&N SFF blog
"A dark look at what could be hiding in space waiting for us to let our guard down." —Booklist
“A tense, provocative story, which puts a truly original spin on the idea of intergalactic interaction. It’s plausible, unpredictable, and thoroughly entertaining as it sets the stage for future installments and even more questions.” —Publishers Weekly
“A unique world that happens to be familiar, great character development, a fun change for the human race, and fast pacing leaves this as one science fiction book that you’ll want to pick up!” —ScienceFiction.com
“One of the best original science fiction novels I’ve read. Alien races are again beyond the understanding of mankind and I couldn’t be happier. Highest possible recommendation.” —SciFi Pulse
