Legend surrounds the Stella Mars, a mysterious flower from Otherplanet, rumored to grant supernatural powers and bring love and happiness to whoever owns it. Alias Kingman, a deeply unhappy business tycoon, has tried to buy it many times from the Templomuseum where it is kept under guard, but the enchanted flower is not for sale.
Two con artists, Dr. Grabengon and his friend, Eagle, spend their days wandering from town to town, selling magic potions to gullible citizens. When they hear about the Stella Mars from a passing peddler of non-toxic perfumes, they decide to steal it in hopes of getting a reward from Kingman.
However, things don't go according to plan, as they soon find they aren't the only ones in pursuit of the enigmatic flower.
I have had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of “Otherplanet” by Helen Alexander. It is a science fiction story about two unsavory salesmen who hear about an alien flower called the Stella Mars. It is said to bring happiness to anyone possessing it. A very rich man is willing to pay any sum in order to have the plant. The two companions decide to steal the flower and make their fortune. Things go off track for the two of them from there. The ingenious story takes part on both Earth and a mystical planet called Otherworld. There are elements all science fiction fans will love. The story has magical creatures and special powers. This story moves at a brisk pace but it keeps your attention quite well. It is complex, yet easy to follow. I certainly will not spoil anything for you but the end has an interesting twist. This is a great piece for anyone who loves to exercise their imagination. Helen Alexander has really outdone herself.
I loved this. A little different, an intriguing story which left me wanting more (my only complaint). A good segue into longer fantasy books, and will catch a child's interest if they are getting bored with books for younger children and progressing to longer novels. Clever and imaginative; I will watch for more from this author.