Shaman

by Maya Kaathryn Bohnhoff

The stories in this collection were first published in Analog science fiction magazine between 1990 and 2011. They feature the adventures of eccentric kilt-wearing anthropologist / archaeologist / xenologist Rhys Llewellyn and his able assistants, Yoshi Umeki and Roderick Halfax. Given my fascination with archaeology, first contact…and all things Scottish, I suppose these stories were inevitable.

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 29, 2012

About the author

Maya’s addicted to speculative fiction. For this, she blames her dad and Ray Bradbury.  She’s authored eight novels of speculative fiction, short fiction that’s appeared in Analog, Amazing Stories, Interzone, and others, and has been short-listed for the Nebula, Sidewise, and British SF awards. She and writing partner Michael Reaves are responsible for the 2013 New York Times Bestseller STAR WARS LEGENDS: THE LAST JEDI.

Her newest novel is THE ANTIQUITIES HUNTER, a Gina Miyoko Mystery

Maya is half of Maya & Jeff, a Pegasus Award-winning musical duo. They’ve collaborated on three amazing children and live in San Jose. You can read/listen to Maya’s work at www.bookviewcafe,com or www.mayabohnhoff.com and buy her books at Book View Café, Amazon, Barnes&Noble, CD Baby and iTunes.

Reviews

[Katharine Kimbriel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a reprint of several SF short pieces that first appeared in Analog Science Fiction Magazine. They all concern the adventures of eccentric kilt-wearing anthropologist/archaeologist/xenologist Rhys Llewellyn and his trusty assistants Yoshi Umeki and Roderick Halfax. These are not merely tales of first contact – they are also tales of how an innovative senior officer at an exploration corporation hires an anthropologist to make sure that both the corporation and the natives are dealt with fairly.

Rhys both listens and watches very closely, and he rarely, if ever, assumes anything. Such is his genius. In these tales, he grows and changes, using his strengths and working on his weaknesses. All too often he is misunderstood and underestimated by his peers, and that just adds to the fun.

These look like they might be simple tales, but they are anything but, with lots of social commentary. They also have a deep respect for the concept of spirit. I really enjoyed them, and hope that Bohnhoff writes more tales of Rhys Llewellyn!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refreshing read

I really enjoyed this! It reminded me a little of Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy and I actually learned a lot about anthropology. My only criticism is that the story about Velvet drug on a little bit too long. Otherwise, fascinating and vivid story.