Plan B by Sharon LeeMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I become more and more fond of these tales of the Liaden universe. I also found myself thinking often of Lois McMaster Bujold's Miles Vorkosigan, especially her Komarr and A Civil Campaign novels. There is a similar combination of espionage, battle details, meetings between families, and an undercurrent of romance. In fact, Val Con yos'Phelium very carefully binds to himself a disgraced Yxtrang explorer. This is a very Miles Vorkosigan thing to do.
Just like many of the strays that Miles has bound to himself over the course of the books, Nelirikk Explorer (the Yxtrang in question) is now fanatically loyal to the yos'Phelium line. Funny how being treated fairly and having your skills and knowledge appreciated can inspire devotion, something that many managers should take notice of.
If one ever had any doubt in the plotting and planning abilities of House Korval, this novel will dispense with them. It rapidly becomes apparent that plans have been laid for generations, leaving the reader to wonder exactly what the family is involved in that requires these sorts of machinations. For suddenly Plan B is activated, bringing Val Con and Shan together under less than ideal conditions, unable to enjoy their reunion. Why is the Liaden Department of Interior pursuing them so determinedly and violently?
Needless to say, the desire to read on is strong! Soon, Liad, I will return to see what is happening with my favourite renegade family.
Book number 391 of my Science Fiction & Fantasy Reading Project.
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