Author: Sharon Lee & Steve Miller
Narrator: Kevin T. Collins
Series: Liaden Universe
Publication: Baen Books; 1st edition (December 15, 2013); Tantor Audio (June 28, 2022)
Length: 538 p.; 19 hours and 44 minutes
Description: Fifteen short tales of the Liaden Universe brought together for the first time. Space opera and romance on a grand scale in a galaxy full of interstellar trading clans.
Thirty-three shorter tales of the Liaden Universe brought together for the first time in two mega-volumes. Fifteen tales complete Volume Two!
The nationally bestselling Liaden Universe novels are treasured by space opera aficionados for their wit, world-building, strong characterizations, tender romance, and edge-of-the-chair action.
Since 1995, Sharon Lee and Steve Miller also created shorter tales, illuminating additional facets of the Liaden experience. Here is a vast tapestry of tales of the scouts, artists, traders, priestesses, sleight of hand magicians, and pilots who fill the Liaden Universe with the excitement, action, and romance that fans of the hit series have come to adore.
My Thoughts: This second collection of Liaden Universe short fiction was great for filling in some of the blanks in the main line novels and fleshing out events that were formative for many of the characters but only briefly mentioned.
Veil of the Dancer tells about Inas Bhar's childhood and the first steps the lead her to become Natessa the Assassin and ultimately Pat Rin's lifemate.
The Beggar King tells the story of Clarance O'Berin's arrival on Liad to be the Juntavas boss. It also tells how he and Daav become as friendly as they can be given that they are working for opposing sides.
Lord of the Dance takes place on Surebleak and tells the story of Pat Rin's final acceptance of the fact that he is truly a pilot of Korval.
Fighting Chance tells how Miri gets off Surebleak the first time and joins the mercenaries. Prodigal Son tells weatherman Ichliad Brunner's story which incidentally tells the story of Miri's heroism at Klamath.
Hidden Resources tells what happens at Runig's Rock while the clan children along with Lady Kareen and Luken bel'Tarda are sheltering there while the adults in the clan make a new home after being thrown off Liad.
The other stories also tell about other people caught up in Korval's adventures or just trying to lead their lives in peace. I liked Skyblaze because I had often wondered what happened to the taxi driver who drove Cheever McFarland to Korval and who later ferried mercenaries from Higson's unit when Korval attacked the Department of the Interior on Liad. It was a great story about someone who was just a "spearholder" in the mainline, but whose life was changed by the events, nonetheless.
All of the stories were entertaining. I thought that they could be introductions to the Liaden Universe for new readers. It is hard to judge that though because I've read the Liaden Universe stores over and over again since I discovered them in the 1990s. I loved finding out more about characters I already love.
Favorite Quote:
Favorite Quote:
"You, my daughter. You're about to begin the adventure of your life. Be bold, which I know you are. Be honest as you can. Trust Angela. If you find love, embrace it."I bought this one using some of my banked Audible Credits. You can buy your copy here.
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