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Liaden Universe, Chronological #19
Dragon in Exile
#18 in the popular and exciting science fiction Liaden Universe®. Clan Korval rebuilds its fortunes on the gritty, semi-anarchic planet of Surebleak. Over a half million Liaden Universe® books sold with an audience that keeps growing!
Star-trading Clan Korval—known to Terrans as the Tree-and-Dragon Family and to the locals simply as "the Dragon"—has been convicted of crimes against the homeworld. No matter that one of the "crimes" consisted of saving the elitist planet of Liad from very real internal threats, the Council of Clans wanted Korval heads to roll. Unfortunately for the Council, the Dragon's allies conspired to impose a milder punishment for saving the world: banishment, rather than execution.
Now relocated to the free-for-all world of Surebleak, the Dragon is under contract to keep the Port Road open to all traffic, and to back the New Bosses in imposing law and order on a society originally based on larceny and assassination. This modest rustication is going surprisingly well, until Korval discovers that the enemy they'd sought to destroy. . .wasn't quite destroyed, and is more determined than ever to eradicate Korval.
While the banishment killed no one initially, many of Korval’s trading allies are spooked, and some are reneging on ancient agreements, leaving the Dragon to make its own way. The clan’s efforts to stealthily recruit new allies is going haywire, and a secret death toll is rising even as the clan’s adherents endure increasing exposure to danger and deceit off-world.
To make matters worse, an active portion of Surebleak's native population liked the Old Ways just fine, and are conspiring to take the New Bosses—and the Dragon—down, and are sure they have the firepower and people to do it.
The exiled Dragon has to make an urgent choice—accept an alliance with criminals or face down each and every enemy in person, one by one.
Star-trading Clan Korval—known to Terrans as the Tree-and-Dragon Family and to the locals simply as "the Dragon"—has been convicted of crimes against the homeworld. No matter that one of the "crimes" consisted of saving the elitist planet of Liad from very real internal threats, the Council of Clans wanted Korval heads to roll. Unfortunately for the Council, the Dragon's allies conspired to impose a milder punishment for saving the world: banishment, rather than execution.
Now relocated to the free-for-all world of Surebleak, the Dragon is under contract to keep the Port Road open to all traffic, and to back the New Bosses in imposing law and order on a society originally based on larceny and assassination. This modest rustication is going surprisingly well, until Korval discovers that the enemy they'd sought to destroy. . .wasn't quite destroyed, and is more determined than ever to eradicate Korval.
While the banishment killed no one initially, many of Korval’s trading allies are spooked, and some are reneging on ancient agreements, leaving the Dragon to make its own way. The clan’s efforts to stealthily recruit new allies is going haywire, and a secret death toll is rising even as the clan’s adherents endure increasing exposure to danger and deceit off-world.
To make matters worse, an active portion of Surebleak's native population liked the Old Ways just fine, and are conspiring to take the New Bosses—and the Dragon—down, and are sure they have the firepower and people to do it.
The exiled Dragon has to make an urgent choice—accept an alliance with criminals or face down each and every enemy in person, one by one.
544 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 15, 2015
53 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Lee
166 books789 followersSharon Lee has been married to her first husband for more than half her lifetime; she is a friend to cats, a member of the National Carousel Association, and oversees the dubious investment schemes of an improbable number of stuffed animals.
Despite having been born in a year of the dragon, Sharon is an introvert. She lives in Maine because she likes it there. In fact, she likes it so much that she has written five novels set in Maine; contemporary fantasy trilogy Carousel Tides, Carousel Sun, Carousel Seas, and mysteries Barnburner and Gunshy.
With the aforementioned first husband, Steve Miller, Sharon has written twenty novels of science fiction and fantasy — many of them set in the Liaden Universe® — and numerous short stories. She has occasionally been an advertising copywriter, a reporter, photographer, book reviewer, and secretary. She was for three years Executive Director of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, Inc., and was subsequently elected vice president and then president of that organization.
Despite having been born in a year of the dragon, Sharon is an introvert. She lives in Maine because she likes it there. In fact, she likes it so much that she has written five novels set in Maine; contemporary fantasy trilogy Carousel Tides, Carousel Sun, Carousel Seas, and mysteries Barnburner and Gunshy.
With the aforementioned first husband, Steve Miller, Sharon has written twenty novels of science fiction and fantasy — many of them set in the Liaden Universe® — and numerous short stories. She has occasionally been an advertising copywriter, a reporter, photographer, book reviewer, and secretary. She was for three years Executive Director of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, Inc., and was subsequently elected vice president and then president of that organization.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
June 15, 2017
3.5 stars. I enjoyed the story, despite some quibbles. I also listened to audiobook, but the Korval characters sound pompous.
Drum roll please!...Tree looms large in several scenes. There's a scene reminiscent of when Tree threatened Daav's fiancée in Scout's Progress. There's also a dreamy scene under Tree. All good! I loved the concluding scenes with Tree. Perfect!
---- The only thing that would add to the joy would be for Nelirikk to finally talk with Tree about Jela! Receive a seed pod! Read Jela's few logbooks. I expect Val Con kept his promise, from Plan B.
There's a new child in this book. Won't say more, but Tocohl was not expected. Haha! Too much fun! Speaking of children, Lizzie babbles away in a few fun scenes, too. And Rys from Necessity's Child puts his freedom to good purpose.
Speaking of children, we never see the twins. Anthora's toddlers. Are they an embarrassment to the clan?
Korval was approached for an alliance, by the High Judge Juntavas. I am glad he is keeping his distance. Every member of that "clan" was a murderous mobster thug in Agent of Change. I was initially barely able to believe in Natesa. A total reversal of the entire organization seems unlikely.
Setting is too spotty. This particular book is set on Surebleak entirely, and it could have fleshed out the planet, which is a thinly drawn setting. When I think of Surebleak, I cannot see the planet, only the port city. Continents? Forests? Mountains? Flora / fauna. Wild animals? From Moon on the Hills (see A Liaden Universe® Constellation: Volume Two) we learn there are wild pigs and a paucity of birds, with two moons, never mentioned again in any book. A moon will have a different name "Chuck Honey" in Alliance of Equals. From the text, all I can "see" is one dysfunctional city (Port City virtually takes the same name as the planet) and the long rocky road leading to Yulie Shaper's farm and Jelaza Kazone. Oh...and the weather. It's cold. And somewhere there is an ocean or large lake, where Shan plans to build a house. Now in this book we get a vague hint that there could be something below the surface of the planet. Is it something else, besides the growing chambers and stasis pods at Yulie's farm? Hmmm?
As for the story, below I render big ideas, characters featured, and intersecting prequel:
Dragon in Exile is set on Surebleak, some weeks after the conclusion of Dragon Ship (Theo Waitley, #4). I've taken quite an interest in this revitalized planet and was happy to revisit it. I enjoyed watching Surebleak take shape, as various citizens (aka 'Bleakers) stood firmly (or not) against syndicate thugs, but I was surprised / disappointed that the insurance threat continued so long, after seeing how far Surebleak had come in driving out the mob bosses in four prequels: ( I Dare, Necessity's Child, Skyblaze, and Ghost Ship). Also, I couldn't quite buy such drama just to find a meeting place.
Examining several brainwashed agents of change, Anthora and Ren Zel sense the work of a dramliza. I wonder if that's the malevolent female dramliza from Crystal Dragon — the dominant one who plotted to rule in lieu of the Eloheen. In chapter 22 of CD she took a tithe of Rool Tiazen's power in exchange for helping Quick Passage elude the Eloheen, during that epic migration from old Solcintra.
No Clutch Turtles in this book, but Korval's skittish neighbor Yulie Shaper gets plenty of action. Whoot! He's a favorite with me, and the authors have blessed him with a multi-textured character, beginning with his introduction in Moon on the Hills short story. A quibble: Why would anyone come to Yulie's farm, looking for a meeting place? It's so far from town and near Korval. That seemed unlikely, for obvious reasons.
We see the Bedel people (see Necessity's Child) and especially former agent of change Rys Lin pen Chela (sp?) otherwise known as "Dragon-wing" — the man with the golden hand. We also see Kezzy and Droi. Silain (the Luthia, healer, grandmother) reveals a hidden ability.
We meet some agents of change who were captured in various prequels and held by Korval. No sure exactly when they were captured, but arrests were mentioned in Ghost Ship and Necessity's Child, and Nelirikk escorted captured agents from Vandar to Surebleak in the short story PRODIGAL SON in the duology Allies, also found in A Liaden Universe® Constellation: Volume Two.
One of my favorite characters is young Syl Vor (loved him in Necessity's Child) and happily for me he played a key role in a vivid scene. Also, we learn a bit more about his special gifts. Plus, we see Mike Golden and Nova and Beck.
Loved Lucan bel Tarda, Quin's grandfather. This gentle man shrewdly weaves a fine balance with the treacherous delm of Clan Hedrede, the Liaden council member who gunned for Korval's banishment.
I'm always delighted to see Nelirikk the Beautiful and Diglon the Rifle. Good stuff! (Diglon married Alara, a biologist Scout, in a short story, The Rifle's First Wife), in Liaden Universe Constellation: Volume III.
Surprising scenes with Hazenthull and her security partner Tolly Jones — an interesting new character! Is the clay pipe (whistle) old tech? I think so. I think I read about these whistles before, perhaps in Balance of Trade, and/or there may have been something similar in the short story Necessary Evils. I also think Tolly is an aelantaza, an engineered human, running from the same directors who engineered Cantra (see Crystal Soldier).
In the "intervals" between chapters we get some long-awaited scenes featuring
In prequels, I resented the pages wasted on Kamele Waitley, but in this book, she fit in. She played an integrated role. But I've noticed that Code-Queen Kareen has changed considerably since Scout's Progress. Her character has become kinder, whereas in earlier books she was quite ugly. Nothing given in text to support the change.
The pace felt meandering and slow (a minor quibble, as mostly I was fine with simply immersing myself in the characters and seeing slices of their lives). But there was a fair amount of "telling" at first, reminding readers of what went down in prequels. Also, the POV hopped around a lot. In the midst of one scene, we would suddenly shift to another scene. I dislike that.
By the way, Shan and his lifemate didn't feature in this book, except as mentioned by others. They are offworld. Nor do we see Theo.
The authors posted a short story online, embellishing the action in this book. Here's Chimera: http://www.baen.com/Chimera.asp
Drum roll please!...Tree looms large in several scenes. There's a scene reminiscent of when Tree threatened Daav's fiancée in Scout's Progress. There's also a dreamy scene under Tree. All good! I loved the concluding scenes with Tree. Perfect!
---- The only thing that would add to the joy would be for Nelirikk to finally talk with Tree about Jela! Receive a seed pod! Read Jela's few logbooks. I expect Val Con kept his promise, from Plan B.
There's a new child in this book. Won't say more, but Tocohl was not expected. Haha! Too much fun! Speaking of children, Lizzie babbles away in a few fun scenes, too. And Rys from Necessity's Child puts his freedom to good purpose.
Speaking of children, we never see the twins. Anthora's toddlers. Are they an embarrassment to the clan?
Korval was approached for an alliance, by the High Judge Juntavas. I am glad he is keeping his distance. Every member of that "clan" was a murderous mobster thug in Agent of Change. I was initially barely able to believe in Natesa. A total reversal of the entire organization seems unlikely.
Setting is too spotty. This particular book is set on Surebleak entirely, and it could have fleshed out the planet, which is a thinly drawn setting. When I think of Surebleak, I cannot see the planet, only the port city. Continents? Forests? Mountains? Flora / fauna. Wild animals? From Moon on the Hills (see A Liaden Universe® Constellation: Volume Two) we learn there are wild pigs and a paucity of birds, with two moons, never mentioned again in any book. A moon will have a different name "Chuck Honey" in Alliance of Equals. From the text, all I can "see" is one dysfunctional city (Port City virtually takes the same name as the planet) and the long rocky road leading to Yulie Shaper's farm and Jelaza Kazone. Oh...and the weather. It's cold. And somewhere there is an ocean or large lake, where Shan plans to build a house. Now in this book we get a vague hint that there could be something below the surface of the planet. Is it something else, besides the growing chambers and stasis pods at Yulie's farm? Hmmm?
As for the story, below I render big ideas, characters featured, and intersecting prequel:
Dragon in Exile is set on Surebleak, some weeks after the conclusion of Dragon Ship (Theo Waitley, #4). I've taken quite an interest in this revitalized planet and was happy to revisit it. I enjoyed watching Surebleak take shape, as various citizens (aka 'Bleakers) stood firmly (or not) against syndicate thugs, but I was surprised / disappointed that the insurance threat continued so long, after seeing how far Surebleak had come in driving out the mob bosses in four prequels: ( I Dare, Necessity's Child, Skyblaze, and Ghost Ship). Also, I couldn't quite buy such drama just to find a meeting place.
Examining several brainwashed agents of change, Anthora and Ren Zel sense the work of a dramliza. I wonder if that's the malevolent female dramliza from Crystal Dragon — the dominant one who plotted to rule in lieu of the Eloheen. In chapter 22 of CD she took a tithe of Rool Tiazen's power in exchange for helping Quick Passage elude the Eloheen, during that epic migration from old Solcintra.
No Clutch Turtles in this book, but Korval's skittish neighbor Yulie Shaper gets plenty of action. Whoot! He's a favorite with me, and the authors have blessed him with a multi-textured character, beginning with his introduction in Moon on the Hills short story. A quibble: Why would anyone come to Yulie's farm, looking for a meeting place? It's so far from town and near Korval. That seemed unlikely, for obvious reasons.
We see the Bedel people (see Necessity's Child) and especially former agent of change Rys Lin pen Chela (sp?) otherwise known as "Dragon-wing" — the man with the golden hand. We also see Kezzy and Droi. Silain (the Luthia, healer, grandmother) reveals a hidden ability.
We meet some agents of change who were captured in various prequels and held by Korval. No sure exactly when they were captured, but arrests were mentioned in Ghost Ship and Necessity's Child, and Nelirikk escorted captured agents from Vandar to Surebleak in the short story PRODIGAL SON in the duology Allies, also found in A Liaden Universe® Constellation: Volume Two.
One of my favorite characters is young Syl Vor (loved him in Necessity's Child) and happily for me he played a key role in a vivid scene. Also, we learn a bit more about his special gifts. Plus, we see Mike Golden and Nova and Beck.
Loved Lucan bel Tarda, Quin's grandfather. This gentle man shrewdly weaves a fine balance with the treacherous delm of Clan Hedrede, the Liaden council member who gunned for Korval's banishment.
I'm always delighted to see Nelirikk the Beautiful and Diglon the Rifle. Good stuff! (Diglon married Alara, a biologist Scout, in a short story, The Rifle's First Wife), in Liaden Universe Constellation: Volume III.
Surprising scenes with Hazenthull and her security partner Tolly Jones — an interesting new character! Is the clay pipe (whistle) old tech? I think so. I think I read about these whistles before, perhaps in Balance of Trade, and/or there may have been something similar in the short story Necessary Evils. I also think Tolly is an aelantaza, an engineered human, running from the same directors who engineered Cantra (see Crystal Soldier).
In the "intervals" between chapters we get some long-awaited scenes featuring
In prequels, I resented the pages wasted on Kamele Waitley, but in this book, she fit in. She played an integrated role. But I've noticed that Code-Queen Kareen has changed considerably since Scout's Progress. Her character has become kinder, whereas in earlier books she was quite ugly. Nothing given in text to support the change.
The pace felt meandering and slow (a minor quibble, as mostly I was fine with simply immersing myself in the characters and seeing slices of their lives). But there was a fair amount of "telling" at first, reminding readers of what went down in prequels. Also, the POV hopped around a lot. In the midst of one scene, we would suddenly shift to another scene. I dislike that.
By the way, Shan and his lifemate didn't feature in this book, except as mentioned by others. They are offworld. Nor do we see Theo.
The authors posted a short story online, embellishing the action in this book. Here's Chimera: http://www.baen.com/Chimera.asp
August 25, 2023
Okay, I have read the book that I accidentally skipped and I am theoretically up to speed on the progress of the Tree-and-Dragon (not a pub, FYI). The planet of Surebleak amuses me. It reminds me of the episode of the original Star Trek where Kirk and Spock have to deal with gangsters and try to speak their lingo. It becomes obvious in this book that there is resistance to Korval's moves towards law and order (and education, safety, public services, etc.) But the Bosses in charge have seen the benefits of civilization and are unwilling to return to the previous system. Conflict ensues.
It was pleasing to see Kareen and Kamele branch out on their own, establishing their own home and instigating their research project. I also had fun watching Kamele become a confident shooter and enter a contest. So different from her Delgado experience!
So, from here on I will try to stick to the straight and narrow, being a bit more careful of series order. That will make comprehension easier at least.
Book number 505 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
It was pleasing to see Kareen and Kamele branch out on their own, establishing their own home and instigating their research project. I also had fun watching Kamele become a confident shooter and enter a contest. So different from her Delgado experience!
So, from here on I will try to stick to the straight and narrow, being a bit more careful of series order. That will make comprehension easier at least.
Book number 505 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
May 12, 2020
What a great installment in one of the best series. I am completely satisfied, except that I want more!
4/30/16 re-read: So many worthwhile developments.
4/30/16 re-read: So many worthwhile developments.
March 5, 2015
4/5; 4 stars; A-
After re-reading the Theo Waitley series and the Agent of Change series I couldn't wait for the next book in the Liaden Universe. The e-arc of this is available at Baen books for those of you who are impatient like me!
This book is, in my opinion, setting the stage for the next story arc in the Liaden Universe continuum. I know the authors are contracted to write two more books in this series in the next two years and I think Dragon in Exile sets several balls in motion so there can be a lot more story to tell.
Surebleak is turning out to be a very interesting planet. After reading Necessity's Child, I saw there were hidden depths to the planet and some pretty complex social systems. I am dying to learn what is on Yulie Shaper's property!
Dragon in Exile was a fun read. Most of the characters from previous books are getting on with setting up on Surebleak and there are a few surprises that have left me yearning for the next books!
After re-reading the Theo Waitley series and the Agent of Change series I couldn't wait for the next book in the Liaden Universe. The e-arc of this is available at Baen books for those of you who are impatient like me!
This book is, in my opinion, setting the stage for the next story arc in the Liaden Universe continuum. I know the authors are contracted to write two more books in this series in the next two years and I think Dragon in Exile sets several balls in motion so there can be a lot more story to tell.
Surebleak is turning out to be a very interesting planet. After reading Necessity's Child, I saw there were hidden depths to the planet and some pretty complex social systems. I am dying to learn what is on Yulie Shaper's property!
Dragon in Exile was a fun read. Most of the characters from previous books are getting on with setting up on Surebleak and there are a few surprises that have left me yearning for the next books!
March 3, 2015
5 stars
18 books in, countless hours and feels invested, and finally, ladies and gentlemen, I'm writing a review for a Liaden book. And a Liaden universe, a bit. It's not going to be a particularly organized review, because A)I'm lazy; B)So far into the series, most people probably know what's going on and C)I feel like randomly gushing.
Y'all who haven't, in fact, started this series, everything but the second list is safe and spoiler-free. Maybe. In any case, the first question one should ask is "What is this series about?". It's classified as Space Opera, and it's all set in the same universe, with all the books being in some way connected (some much more than others, of course) and they're all in some measure adventure, romance, suspense, historical-ish, sci-fi novels about family. Really, they rock, and if you haven't, you should read them. If, in fact the first question was "Why are the covers so %$^&&?", the answer is I DON'T KNOW! But I love those books enough to forgive them. The second question would be "Where do I start?" and that, dudes and dudettes is THE question, because, really. I read them in order of publication, but that is not chronological, so I don't know. Different options can be found on the authors' website.
Another question is "Why will I fall in love with the series?"
Here's why I did:
1)KORVAL! Crazy, crazy clan but I <3 them to the n-th degree. All of them. And they're even more fun, considering they live on
2)Liaden, the world that's like Regency on steroids. I kid you not.
3)Romance, space traveling, battles, kicking ass, balls, saving the world, spies, magic... Isn't it like EVERYTHING you love, but together?
4)I laughed and cried so many times I can't even. These people feel like family.
5)The hugeness of this EPIC story, best seen after the Crystal books.
And there are so many other reasons, but I did mention I was lazy, so... If curious, contact me, so I could gush some more :)
Why I loved THIS book (or the SPOILERLY bit)... Well:
1)Val Con and Miri (missed them!)
2)The integration of Liadens on Surebleak. Opposites attract unless they kill each other, so - fun!
3)The slices of life, I liked seeing Pat Rin, Luken and all of them for a bit. Catching up.
4)Progress and more mysteries...
5)
6) I couldn't not, really.
So, that's it.
18 books in, countless hours and feels invested, and finally, ladies and gentlemen, I'm writing a review for a Liaden book. And a Liaden universe, a bit. It's not going to be a particularly organized review, because A)I'm lazy; B)So far into the series, most people probably know what's going on and C)I feel like randomly gushing.
Y'all who haven't, in fact, started this series, everything but the second list is safe and spoiler-free. Maybe. In any case, the first question one should ask is "What is this series about?". It's classified as Space Opera, and it's all set in the same universe, with all the books being in some way connected (some much more than others, of course) and they're all in some measure adventure, romance, suspense, historical-ish, sci-fi novels about family. Really, they rock, and if you haven't, you should read them. If, in fact the first question was "Why are the covers so %$^&&?", the answer is I DON'T KNOW! But I love those books enough to forgive them. The second question would be "Where do I start?" and that, dudes and dudettes is THE question, because, really. I read them in order of publication, but that is not chronological, so I don't know. Different options can be found on the authors' website.
Another question is "Why will I fall in love with the series?"
Here's why I did:
1)KORVAL! Crazy, crazy clan but I <3 them to the n-th degree. All of them. And they're even more fun, considering they live on
2)Liaden, the world that's like Regency on steroids. I kid you not.
3)Romance, space traveling, battles, kicking ass, balls, saving the world, spies, magic... Isn't it like EVERYTHING you love, but together?
4)I laughed and cried so many times I can't even. These people feel like family.
5)The hugeness of this EPIC story, best seen after the Crystal books.
And there are so many other reasons, but I did mention I was lazy, so... If curious, contact me, so I could gush some more :)
Why I loved THIS book (or the SPOILERLY bit)... Well:
1)Val Con and Miri (missed them!)
2)The integration of Liadens on Surebleak. Opposites attract unless they kill each other, so - fun!
3)The slices of life, I liked seeing Pat Rin, Luken and all of them for a bit. Catching up.
4)Progress and more mysteries...
5)
6) I couldn't not, really.
So, that's it.
June 13, 2015
When details filtered out about the content of Ghost Ship (Theo Waitley, #3) (which came out in 2011), I seemed that this book would start to pull the different threads of the overall story together. That suggested we'd have Korval settling on Surebleak, Theo building her connection to her Liaden family, more DOI, more Uncle and with that, more Old Tech and hints of connections to the Great Migration universe, Daav coming active in the story again and then whatever new things the authors chose to bring in.
Since I've a) developed M.E. and b) gotten older, I remember less and less of the details of what I've read (a frustration that is always frustating). So as I waited for my preordered copy of Ghost Ship, I decided to reread the series. That proved to be a slow (but otherwise fantastic) process. The books came out faster than I kept up with rereading. In the last few months I got going again, finishing my rereads and starting on the ones I had bought on publication, but not yet read.
I got up to the "last" book, Trade Secret, a couple of weeks again, just as the book after that one (ie this one) was published. That left me in a quandary; did I keep on with my reread and finish TS first, or did I jump to the new and shiny one. Since TS is a sequel to Balance of Trade and set several centuries before the "current" story line, I let temptation win and started Dragon in Exile.
I loved it.
I've seen criticism that not a lot happens in this book - if by that you mean that there isn't lots of high octane action, then you'd be right. But it terms of establishing the situation, setting the pieces on the board to building to a resolution, then a whole lot happens. This is, after all, the first book of an arc of five. It's a set up book. It needs to be a set up book and it works very well as one.
But it also works as a cracking good story and we follow a wide variety of characters and see them adjusting to Surebleak and also forcing Surebleak to adjust to them.
The problem with being up to date is that you wait for a book, get it, devour it in a day or two and then have to wait a year to find out what happens next. Oh well, at least I do still have Trade Secret to tide me over a bit.
You never know, I might even reread the series again someday. I know I'll still enjoy every word.
Since I've a) developed M.E. and b) gotten older, I remember less and less of the details of what I've read (a frustration that is always frustating). So as I waited for my preordered copy of Ghost Ship, I decided to reread the series. That proved to be a slow (but otherwise fantastic) process. The books came out faster than I kept up with rereading. In the last few months I got going again, finishing my rereads and starting on the ones I had bought on publication, but not yet read.
I got up to the "last" book, Trade Secret, a couple of weeks again, just as the book after that one (ie this one) was published. That left me in a quandary; did I keep on with my reread and finish TS first, or did I jump to the new and shiny one. Since TS is a sequel to Balance of Trade and set several centuries before the "current" story line, I let temptation win and started Dragon in Exile.
I loved it.
I've seen criticism that not a lot happens in this book - if by that you mean that there isn't lots of high octane action, then you'd be right. But it terms of establishing the situation, setting the pieces on the board to building to a resolution, then a whole lot happens. This is, after all, the first book of an arc of five. It's a set up book. It needs to be a set up book and it works very well as one.
But it also works as a cracking good story and we follow a wide variety of characters and see them adjusting to Surebleak and also forcing Surebleak to adjust to them.
The problem with being up to date is that you wait for a book, get it, devour it in a day or two and then have to wait a year to find out what happens next. Oh well, at least I do still have Trade Secret to tide me over a bit.
You never know, I might even reread the series again someday. I know I'll still enjoy every word.
July 5, 2024
This eighteenth Liaden Universe novel focuses on change both personal and galactic. I don't think that it is a book for someone new to the Liaden novels though the author's do try to assist a new reader in the Prologue. But for long-standing fans of this series (one that I have been reading since about 1985), this story was a marvel and a wonder.
Korval is now situated on Surebleak and trying to find a place for itself. They are also trying to find their place in the larger galactic community. While they did their best - including leveling parts of Liad - to defeat the Department of the Interior, they were not able to completely eradicate it. The remaining much-diminished Department has set the elimination of Korval as its only focus. And the Department doesn't care about collateral damage.
Besides this large outside enemy, they are also dealing with citizens of Surebleak who would like to return things to the way it was before Pat Rin arrived and changed Surebleak to meet his needs. It is easy to see that changing the culture on Surebleak won't be an easy process.
This story is told from multiple viewpoints which all weave together to form the whole. Miri and Val Con are key voices but we also hear from Rys, the only Agent of Change besides Val Con who managed to overcome the Department's programming, Quin who represents one of the next generation of Korval, Hazenthull Explorer, one of the Xtrang who are now members of Korval, Kamele Waitley and a few others. Through their eyes, we see what is happening on Surebleak which is going through a major change in society and culture.
We catch up with a number of the characters who have been introduced in the earlier books in this series. I loved seeing them again but wish that I could have seen more about Theo, Daav and Aelliana. Those tiny glimpses in the Interludes just whet my appetite for more. I really enjoyed seeing Korval and Surebleak from Kamele Waitley's point of view since we usually don't see that view. I also enjoyed learning more about Kareen and seeing her become a less one-sided character.
Fans of the series won't want to miss this addition. New readers will want to read some of the earlier books to find out more about the intriguing characters who have roles in this story.
Korval is now situated on Surebleak and trying to find a place for itself. They are also trying to find their place in the larger galactic community. While they did their best - including leveling parts of Liad - to defeat the Department of the Interior, they were not able to completely eradicate it. The remaining much-diminished Department has set the elimination of Korval as its only focus. And the Department doesn't care about collateral damage.
Besides this large outside enemy, they are also dealing with citizens of Surebleak who would like to return things to the way it was before Pat Rin arrived and changed Surebleak to meet his needs. It is easy to see that changing the culture on Surebleak won't be an easy process.
This story is told from multiple viewpoints which all weave together to form the whole. Miri and Val Con are key voices but we also hear from Rys, the only Agent of Change besides Val Con who managed to overcome the Department's programming, Quin who represents one of the next generation of Korval, Hazenthull Explorer, one of the Xtrang who are now members of Korval, Kamele Waitley and a few others. Through their eyes, we see what is happening on Surebleak which is going through a major change in society and culture.
We catch up with a number of the characters who have been introduced in the earlier books in this series. I loved seeing them again but wish that I could have seen more about Theo, Daav and Aelliana. Those tiny glimpses in the Interludes just whet my appetite for more. I really enjoyed seeing Korval and Surebleak from Kamele Waitley's point of view since we usually don't see that view. I also enjoyed learning more about Kareen and seeing her become a less one-sided character.
Fans of the series won't want to miss this addition. New readers will want to read some of the earlier books to find out more about the intriguing characters who have roles in this story.
July 8, 2016
Ahh, Korval
Just a few thoughts.
This was a good book and the only reason it gets 4 stars instead of 5 is that it doesn't quite live up to the platinum standard set by the original arc (technically books 8-13). Still I was happy to see Korval integrating into Surebleak society. I wish that Val-Con and Miri were stronger characters here. Their actions seemed just a tiny bit ineffectual in that they seemed to be saved by others at times instead of through their own efforts.
Happy with the Daav and Allieana story line and can't wait to see that play out. It was fun to see a little bit of everyone on planet but it did make the book seem a little disjointed. The action was all of the intermediate setting other things up sort which just leads to the next book which features Shan and merchanting which I love, so goody.
Just a few thoughts.
This was a good book and the only reason it gets 4 stars instead of 5 is that it doesn't quite live up to the platinum standard set by the original arc (technically books 8-13). Still I was happy to see Korval integrating into Surebleak society. I wish that Val-Con and Miri were stronger characters here. Their actions seemed just a tiny bit ineffectual in that they seemed to be saved by others at times instead of through their own efforts.
Happy with the Daav and Allieana story line and can't wait to see that play out. It was fun to see a little bit of everyone on planet but it did make the book seem a little disjointed. The action was all of the intermediate setting other things up sort which just leads to the next book which features Shan and merchanting which I love, so goody.
July 28, 2015
Felt a bit more passive than some of the others, which is probably the effect of tying together so many plots and lots of waiting/plotting with less action, but I love watching Korval gathering its own in! Definitely needs a reread, when I can get it back from the library.
One warning though: if you haven't read Necessity's Child you really need to read that one first, otherwise many pieces won't make sense. (And I'll probably reread it before I reread this one, to refresh my memory.)
One warning though: if you haven't read Necessity's Child you really need to read that one first, otherwise many pieces won't make sense. (And I'll probably reread it before I reread this one, to refresh my memory.)
May 22, 2015
A bit of a meandering mismash, but I always enjoy a visit to this world.
May 7, 2018
Highly recommend. (First read Feb 13/15)
I am currently re-reading the novels backwards to recall all the separate plot threads they tied up and then sent the new cords out into space to be carried onto new books/adventures.
**re read 3 days later after finishing Dragon ship, Ghost Ship & Necessity's Child --> just to follow on Rhys' evolution again**
LOL accidentally skipped this one after the backwards reread after Alliance of Equals.
I am currently re-reading the novels backwards to recall all the separate plot threads they tied up and then sent the new cords out into space to be carried onto new books/adventures.
**re read 3 days later after finishing Dragon ship, Ghost Ship & Necessity's Child --> just to follow on Rhys' evolution again**
LOL accidentally skipped this one after the backwards reread after Alliance of Equals.
July 13, 2023
Oh boy am I enjoying these Liaden books!
This entry in the series covers about the same time span as the previous book "Dragon Ship" (which tells what Theo is doing) focusing upon what is occurring on Surebleak with Clan Korval (Val Con & Miri; Pat Rin; Kareen), Kamele & the Bedel, including Rys. It is recommended that the reader has already read "Necessity's Child" as this book follows the events in that one.
This entry in the series covers about the same time span as the previous book "Dragon Ship" (which tells what Theo is doing) focusing upon what is occurring on Surebleak with Clan Korval (Val Con & Miri; Pat Rin; Kareen), Kamele & the Bedel, including Rys. It is recommended that the reader has already read "Necessity's Child" as this book follows the events in that one.
May 30, 2023
Another great entry in the Liaden Universe. After having read 21 of these books (and short stories), I am beginning to feel like I live in these books, and see these characters as friends.
04/28/2020: Starting this again. What a pleasure these books are.
05/30/2023: I read this again.
04/28/2020: Starting this again. What a pleasure these books are.
05/30/2023: I read this again.
January 5, 2016
'kay it was great. Too sleepy to gush about it, or there's be gushing. I sleep now.
March 30, 2015
This book was well done, worth the wait, and the e-arc price. Dragon in exile is a bridge book. It is entirely satisfying on its own but left me eagerly awaiting the next installment.
May 17, 2025
Not the place to start with these books, for sure. I think there was reference to every, or almost every, book and short story in this universe in this volume, with the notable exception of Theo, Shan, and Priscilla. Now it is clear why we just spent a whole book on the Kompani. All the Surebleak stuff is coming together and it seems like the clan will be going on the offensive.
Plus, the reason I stopped reading the books my first go-round was FINALLY rectified, to my relief. Looking forward to seeing what happens with that.
There was so much happening here that it was almost overwhelming. There are a lot of characters in this universe and while they are generally well-individuated, there were a few people I was a little fuzzy on. The book tried to counter this with an ongoing theme of what it means to build a community. It was overall well done but really the process of overcoming a mafia state would probably have involved a lot more violence than we got. Korval very rarely ends up in actual pain. They are always the best, the baddest, the strongest leaders, the best shot, etc. They find true love. That's not to say that they don't struggle, they do, which is why these books remain readable (and re-readable).
Nonetheless it was all very satisfying seeing so many disparate stories and people come together in common cause. I would like to read it not on my phone to maybe have a more nuanced opinion, but it was the only option I had. The fifth star is more for the satisfaction I got from it than anything else.
Plus, the reason I stopped reading the books my first go-round was FINALLY rectified, to my relief. Looking forward to seeing what happens with that.
There was so much happening here that it was almost overwhelming. There are a lot of characters in this universe and while they are generally well-individuated, there were a few people I was a little fuzzy on. The book tried to counter this with an ongoing theme of what it means to build a community. It was overall well done but really the process of overcoming a mafia state would probably have involved a lot more violence than we got. Korval very rarely ends up in actual pain. They are always the best, the baddest, the strongest leaders, the best shot, etc. They find true love. That's not to say that they don't struggle, they do, which is why these books remain readable (and re-readable).
Nonetheless it was all very satisfying seeing so many disparate stories and people come together in common cause. I would like to read it not on my phone to maybe have a more nuanced opinion, but it was the only option I had. The fifth star is more for the satisfaction I got from it than anything else.
October 2, 2019
2019 bk 316. One of my favorite of the Surebleak novels, this novel both ties together what has happened to the folks of various predecessor novels and sets the stage for what will be forthcoming.
Sharon Lee & Steve Miller continue to weave their magic storytelling skills in the continued creation of the Liaden Universe novels. Favorite scenes: when the bosses are informed that Kamale is considering starting a university (the planet only has a few schools going up to approx 8th grade at this point), the brave little baker confronting the gangsters, Haz following Tolley off-planet, Baby Liz going with her parents to tell the bus to go away, and their neighbor bravely fending off invaders.
Sharon Lee & Steve Miller continue to weave their magic storytelling skills in the continued creation of the Liaden Universe novels. Favorite scenes: when the bosses are informed that Kamale is considering starting a university (the planet only has a few schools going up to approx 8th grade at this point), the brave little baker confronting the gangsters, Haz following Tolley off-planet, Baby Liz going with her parents to tell the bus to go away, and their neighbor bravely fending off invaders.
November 15, 2015
Clan Korval, banished from Liad, has relocated to Surebleak, and it has meant big changes for both Surebleak and Korval. Pat Rin, now known to locals as Boss Conrad, has started the transformation of Surebleak's gang-driven anarchy to a workable, more or less civilized society. Val Con and Miri, jointly Delm Korval, are also jointly the Road Boss, under contract to keep the Port Road open. There are no more "insurance sales," no more "examples" being made of those who don't pay up, and there are street patrols and schools for the children. Improved law and order also has more business coming to the Port, to everyone's benefit.
But some people aren't happy. They found the old system very profitable, and they're determined to bring down the new Council of Bosses and Clan Korval (known locally mostly as just "the Dragon.") Korval's offworld enemies aren't gone quiet, either.
"Insurance salesmen" start calling on local businesses, again, and only some of the targets have the confidence to come forward and complain. The "Heavy Transport Committee" sends an emissary to Val Con, hoping to bribe him for "exceptions" to the weight limits on the Road. It's an approach grounded in the belief that he mus resent "big brother" Pat Rin getting bigger billing and more of the profit. It's all building toward a plan to take out the "new bosses," and bring back the old, familiar, profitable, law-free ways of Surebleak.
Meanwhile, Val Con also has eight Agents of Change, agents of the Department of the Interior, locked up. He doesn't want to kill prisoners, but only he and one other have ever broken free of DoI conditioning. Can they be freed from their conditioning? If not, can he really keep the prisoner for the rest of their lives? And Clan Korval and, though they don't realize it, all of Liad, are in danger as long and the Department of the Interior exists.
It all comes together in a major crisis, further enlivened by the arrival of a tourist group of Liaden ne'er-do-wells, come to witness what they imagine is the humiliation of Korval.
There's a lot of fast-paced action, and a lot of exploration of old friends, new friends, and their complicated interrelationships. If you've enjoyed prior Liaden books, you'll love this--and as the start of a new story arc, it's not a bad place to start, either.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from Audible.com in exchange for an honest review.
But some people aren't happy. They found the old system very profitable, and they're determined to bring down the new Council of Bosses and Clan Korval (known locally mostly as just "the Dragon.") Korval's offworld enemies aren't gone quiet, either.
"Insurance salesmen" start calling on local businesses, again, and only some of the targets have the confidence to come forward and complain. The "Heavy Transport Committee" sends an emissary to Val Con, hoping to bribe him for "exceptions" to the weight limits on the Road. It's an approach grounded in the belief that he mus resent "big brother" Pat Rin getting bigger billing and more of the profit. It's all building toward a plan to take out the "new bosses," and bring back the old, familiar, profitable, law-free ways of Surebleak.
Meanwhile, Val Con also has eight Agents of Change, agents of the Department of the Interior, locked up. He doesn't want to kill prisoners, but only he and one other have ever broken free of DoI conditioning. Can they be freed from their conditioning? If not, can he really keep the prisoner for the rest of their lives? And Clan Korval and, though they don't realize it, all of Liad, are in danger as long and the Department of the Interior exists.
It all comes together in a major crisis, further enlivened by the arrival of a tourist group of Liaden ne'er-do-wells, come to witness what they imagine is the humiliation of Korval.
There's a lot of fast-paced action, and a lot of exploration of old friends, new friends, and their complicated interrelationships. If you've enjoyed prior Liaden books, you'll love this--and as the start of a new story arc, it's not a bad place to start, either.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from Audible.com in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2016
I'm a strong fan of this universe and have just finished the e-arc now available for Dragon in Exile. As many have said, it's a book that picks up many threads and characters from the previous books and sets up the gameboard for the action presumably coming in the next two books. I'll just add a couple things I reacted to differently than some reviewers.
The form is short vignettes of various situations on the planet Surebleak as the Liaden and Terran cultures rub up against each other. This is absolutely fine for those versed in the 'verse since we can check in with Aunt Kareen back at the ranch for a few minutes no problem. But there was just an awful lot of "telling" going on to get the backstory and context out. I felt like it was more a primer for those new to the series than the lively examination of characters that it could have been.
And enough with the gunplay!! I get it, Korval lives in dangerous worlds and has conquered a planet by being faster at the draw and stiffer with the chin than all the really tall people who live there! But Kamele as a shooter is too much rubbing my face in the libertarian undercrust of the series that I'm trying to ignore!
Also I recommend rereading Crystal Soldier and Crystal Dragon for the most interesting connections to this book.
The form is short vignettes of various situations on the planet Surebleak as the Liaden and Terran cultures rub up against each other. This is absolutely fine for those versed in the 'verse since we can check in with Aunt Kareen back at the ranch for a few minutes no problem. But there was just an awful lot of "telling" going on to get the backstory and context out. I felt like it was more a primer for those new to the series than the lively examination of characters that it could have been.
And enough with the gunplay!! I get it, Korval lives in dangerous worlds and has conquered a planet by being faster at the draw and stiffer with the chin than all the really tall people who live there! But Kamele as a shooter is too much rubbing my face in the libertarian undercrust of the series that I'm trying to ignore!
Also I recommend rereading Crystal Soldier and Crystal Dragon for the most interesting connections to this book.
August 19, 2015
Probably my favorite part is Kamele competing in a shooting match. Now that's character maturation. And yet there's too much set-up and very little development here. A relaxing read, a necessary read, but not one of the top-rated stories in the series. Hopefully the next will be more dynamic. 3.5 stars, rounded down
November 10, 2024
I can't add anything more since most of the other reviewers have already covered the basics. It may not be the best one from the Liaden Universe with which to start but the authors do a good job of recapping where needed. Looking forward to the next one in the arc.
September 10, 2016
Too much skipping around between various characters. Can't imagine it would make any sense to anyone who was not a fan with a history of reading all the preceding books. All sorts of loose ends. Irritating.
February 9, 2015
Fantastic story! So glad I read the earc! Can't wait for the next installment!
February 8, 2024
The book is fragmented. Too many POVs. Too many story lines. None is more important than the others. It feels like a collection of short stories set in the same place at the same time but featuring different characters interacting with one another. Unfortunately, instead of one story after another, as a proper collection should be, the stories alternate. A scene from here, then a scene from there. There is no protagonist. No sense of unity. No comprehensive novel at all, and hence, no emotional involvement from the reader.
Besides, most characters should be familiar to the reader from the other novels in the series. If the reader hasn't read many of the other novels, or doesn't remember, she wouldn't understand what was happening at all.
Overall: almost a manual on how NOT TO WRITE a novel.
Besides, most characters should be familiar to the reader from the other novels in the series. If the reader hasn't read many of the other novels, or doesn't remember, she wouldn't understand what was happening at all.
Overall: almost a manual on how NOT TO WRITE a novel.
June 5, 2015
Dragon in Exile is a switching yard for storylines. It takes a rather large number of stories and brings them up to date and then puts them on to other tracks combined with other characters headed in a new direction.
If you're new to the Liaden Universe, this is not the book for you. You may find it an interesting read in and of itself, but you will have missed so much--Advice?--go to korval.com and read the information on reading order and then get the other books as stand alone novels or in the onmibus editions. Of course, if you don't want to follow my advice, go ahead and read this book--you'll find yourself getting the other books anyway and then you'll re-read Dragon in Exile anyway.
Val Con and Miri are in the story throughout and, although there is little character development dealing with them, are clearly acting as the chief executives of a large multifaceted interstellar organization and delegate many tasks to others while still seeing action.
Pat Rin and Natesa (and the Juntavas) put in their appearances but are largely in the background. Theo is hardly here at all. The same is true for Shan and Priscilla.
Rys and the Bedel figure prominently and should have large parts in the succeeding stories. Syl Vor is discovered of a talent. Hazenthul Explorer's character is slightly deepened and goes off on a storyline of her own accompanying Jeeves' daughter, Tocohl, on a task dealing with Admiral Bunter. Ren Zel seems to "gain" a new power which hints at a future pivot point. Yulie Shaper appears several times and so too do the people who want to turn back the clock on Surebleak.
We get some new pairings: Quin and Villy, Audrey and Luken (guessed right on that one) and Kareen and Kamele. Kareen and Kamele? Yes, two formalists in a pairing which is not as odd as it first seemed to me. Kamele and self-defense also work.
The Uncle's decision to use two birthing units has proven to be if not a stroke of genius, at least, necessary. I'm quite anxious to find out what happens when they get back to Jelaza Kazone and find Kamele "waiting" for them. (Maybe, they'll hitch a ride back with Theo and Bechimo?)
--Interlude--Mist, two-year-old Siamese female, was sleeping on my legs (I'm in my recliner with my laptop.) and just woke up suddenly from a rather active dream. I now have several scratches and a bit of blood on my shins and calves. She has moved to resume her sleep with her brother, Smoke, on the couch.--End Interlude--
Constellation 3 has stories dealing with this time in the Liaden Universe--get it in August.
At any rate, Dragon in Exile was a good, fun read and over too quickly.
PS--Once you read the book, if you haven't yet read "Chimera," read it. It's a short story dealing with events in the last couple of chapters of Dragon and, as of two minutes ago, it's still posted on baen.com.
PPS--Also read "Eleutherios" in the Baen "Free Library" for more information on the Bedel.
PPPS--Oh, yeah, there are more than enough storylines for the, I think it is, six remaining contracted books Sharon and Steve have.
If you're new to the Liaden Universe, this is not the book for you. You may find it an interesting read in and of itself, but you will have missed so much--Advice?--go to korval.com and read the information on reading order and then get the other books as stand alone novels or in the onmibus editions. Of course, if you don't want to follow my advice, go ahead and read this book--you'll find yourself getting the other books anyway and then you'll re-read Dragon in Exile anyway.
Val Con and Miri are in the story throughout and, although there is little character development dealing with them, are clearly acting as the chief executives of a large multifaceted interstellar organization and delegate many tasks to others while still seeing action.
Pat Rin and Natesa (and the Juntavas) put in their appearances but are largely in the background. Theo is hardly here at all. The same is true for Shan and Priscilla.
Rys and the Bedel figure prominently and should have large parts in the succeeding stories. Syl Vor is discovered of a talent. Hazenthul Explorer's character is slightly deepened and goes off on a storyline of her own accompanying Jeeves' daughter, Tocohl, on a task dealing with Admiral Bunter. Ren Zel seems to "gain" a new power which hints at a future pivot point. Yulie Shaper appears several times and so too do the people who want to turn back the clock on Surebleak.
We get some new pairings: Quin and Villy, Audrey and Luken (guessed right on that one) and Kareen and Kamele. Kareen and Kamele? Yes, two formalists in a pairing which is not as odd as it first seemed to me. Kamele and self-defense also work.
The Uncle's decision to use two birthing units has proven to be if not a stroke of genius, at least, necessary. I'm quite anxious to find out what happens when they get back to Jelaza Kazone and find Kamele "waiting" for them. (Maybe, they'll hitch a ride back with Theo and Bechimo?)
--Interlude--Mist, two-year-old Siamese female, was sleeping on my legs (I'm in my recliner with my laptop.) and just woke up suddenly from a rather active dream. I now have several scratches and a bit of blood on my shins and calves. She has moved to resume her sleep with her brother, Smoke, on the couch.--End Interlude--
Constellation 3 has stories dealing with this time in the Liaden Universe--get it in August.
At any rate, Dragon in Exile was a good, fun read and over too quickly.
PS--Once you read the book, if you haven't yet read "Chimera," read it. It's a short story dealing with events in the last couple of chapters of Dragon and, as of two minutes ago, it's still posted on baen.com.
PPS--Also read "Eleutherios" in the Baen "Free Library" for more information on the Bedel.
PPPS--Oh, yeah, there are more than enough storylines for the, I think it is, six remaining contracted books Sharon and Steve have.
January 2, 2022
This eighteenth Liaden Universe novel focuses on change both personal and galactic. I don't think that it is a book for someone new to the Liaden novels though the author's do try to assist a new reader in the Prologue. But for long-standing fans of this series (one that I have been reading since about 1985), this story was a marvel and a wonder.
Korval is now situated on Surebleak and trying to find a place for itself. They are also trying to find their place in the larger galactic community. While they did their best - including leveling parts of Liad - to defeat the Department of the Interior, they were not able to completely eradicate it. The remaining much-diminished Department has set the elimination of Korval as its only focus. And the Department doesn't care about collateral damage.
Besides this large outside enemy, they are also dealing with citizens of Surebleak who would like to return things to the way it was before Pat Rin arrived and changed Surebleak to meet his needs. It is easy to see that changing the culture on Surebleak won't be an easy process.
This story is told from multiple viewpoints which all weave together to form the whole. Miri and Val Con are key voices but we also hear from Rys, the only Agent of Change besides Val Con who managed to overcome the Department's programming, Quin who represents one of the next generation of Korval, Hazenthull Explorer, one of the Xtrang who are now members of Korval, Kamele Waitley and a few others. Through their eyes, we see what is happening on Surebleak which is going through a major change in society and culture.
We catch up with a number of the characters who have been introduced in the earlier books in this series. I loved seeing them again but wish that I could have seen more about Theo, Daav and Aelliana. Those tiny glimpses in the Interludes just whet my appetite for more. I really enjoyed seeing Korval and Surebleak from Kamele Waitley's point of view since we usually don't see that view. I also enjoyed learning more about Kareen and seeing her become a less one-sided character.
Fans of the series won't want to miss this addition. New readers will want to read some of the earlier books to find out more about the intriguing characters who have roles in this story.
Korval is now situated on Surebleak and trying to find a place for itself. They are also trying to find their place in the larger galactic community. While they did their best - including leveling parts of Liad - to defeat the Department of the Interior, they were not able to completely eradicate it. The remaining much-diminished Department has set the elimination of Korval as its only focus. And the Department doesn't care about collateral damage.
Besides this large outside enemy, they are also dealing with citizens of Surebleak who would like to return things to the way it was before Pat Rin arrived and changed Surebleak to meet his needs. It is easy to see that changing the culture on Surebleak won't be an easy process.
This story is told from multiple viewpoints which all weave together to form the whole. Miri and Val Con are key voices but we also hear from Rys, the only Agent of Change besides Val Con who managed to overcome the Department's programming, Quin who represents one of the next generation of Korval, Hazenthull Explorer, one of the Xtrang who are now members of Korval, Kamele Waitley and a few others. Through their eyes, we see what is happening on Surebleak which is going through a major change in society and culture.
We catch up with a number of the characters who have been introduced in the earlier books in this series. I loved seeing them again but wish that I could have seen more about Theo, Daav and Aelliana. Those tiny glimpses in the Interludes just whet my appetite for more. I really enjoyed seeing Korval and Surebleak from Kamele Waitley's point of view since we usually don't see that view. I also enjoyed learning more about Kareen and seeing her become a less one-sided character.
Fans of the series won't want to miss this addition. New readers will want to read some of the earlier books to find out more about the intriguing characters who have roles in this story.
June 10, 2015
Here are some words I never expected to say about a Liaden book: wasn't Kareen great in this one??? But it's absolutely true. Who would have guessed that the haughty Kareen--who used to refer contemptuously to Anne Davis as "Er Thom's Terran"--would ? Exile from the homeworld has done Kareen a world of good; it's so refreshing and unexpected to see her unbend like this, and learn to use her particular talents for good instead of ill. Luken (whom I have always loved!) also has an expanded role in this book, and the Balance he enacts against one of the stuffier High Houses of Liad is hilarious and satisfying.
While the Liadens are adjusting fairly well to Surebleak, the reverse is not entirely true. The main storyline of Dragon in Exile echoes the one in Saltation, in which Theo Waitley barely escaped from xenophobia-plagued Eylot in one piece. Certain factions among the native "'bleakers" resent the social changes that Pat Rin (in his persona of Boss Conrad) has imposed on 'their' planet, and are determined to fight back against the New Bosses. And as if disgruntled racketeers weren't enough trouble, the Liaden Department of the Interior is still actively pursuing Clan Korval. This is mostly Val Con's problem to solve, with the able assistance of Ren Zel and Anthora--and, interestingly, Silain of the Bedel, via their mutual kinsman Rys Lin.
Speaking of Ren Zel: while this installment in the series reassured me somewhat of my beloved Daav and Aelliana's well-being, it seems to have put Ren Zel in terrible jeopardy. Neither of those plotlines is entirely resolved, however, so we must wait for Alliance of Equals to sort them out.
While the Liadens are adjusting fairly well to Surebleak, the reverse is not entirely true. The main storyline of Dragon in Exile echoes the one in Saltation, in which Theo Waitley barely escaped from xenophobia-plagued Eylot in one piece. Certain factions among the native "'bleakers" resent the social changes that Pat Rin (in his persona of Boss Conrad) has imposed on 'their' planet, and are determined to fight back against the New Bosses. And as if disgruntled racketeers weren't enough trouble, the Liaden Department of the Interior is still actively pursuing Clan Korval. This is mostly Val Con's problem to solve, with the able assistance of Ren Zel and Anthora--and, interestingly, Silain of the Bedel, via their mutual kinsman Rys Lin.
Speaking of Ren Zel: while this installment in the series reassured me somewhat of my beloved Daav and Aelliana's well-being, it seems to have put Ren Zel in terrible jeopardy. Neither of those plotlines is entirely resolved, however, so we must wait for Alliance of Equals to sort them out.
September 19, 2022
I took a break from reading books for the SRC challenges in order to read the eARC of Dragon in Exile because I love the Liaden series, and then realized that it did fit one of the tasks that I hadn't done yet.
This is a direct sequel to Necessity's Child and also has references to things that happened in several of the other books in the series. It takes place almost totally on Surebleak as Clan Korval adapts to being Liadens who have been exiled from Liad. There are some poignant moments and some humorous ones.
Some spoiler-y stuff:
Rating 4.5 (and rounded down) instead of 5 stars mainly because there are so many unresolved things and things that I want to know that didn't get put in this book. I'm especially anxious to see what happens next with Daav and Aelliana.
This is a direct sequel to Necessity's Child and also has references to things that happened in several of the other books in the series. It takes place almost totally on Surebleak as Clan Korval adapts to being Liadens who have been exiled from Liad. There are some poignant moments and some humorous ones.
Some spoiler-y stuff:
Rating 4.5 (and rounded down) instead of 5 stars mainly because there are so many unresolved things and things that I want to know that didn't get put in this book. I'm especially anxious to see what happens next with Daav and Aelliana.
July 1, 2015
This review was originally published on Kurt's Frontier.
Synopsis:
Clan Korval has been convicted of crimes against the homeworld. The crime was firing on the homeworld to eliminate real internal threats to the homeworld. Now the Clan Korval’s enemies want to see them destroyed. However, their allies conspire to impose exile.
Clan Korval, also know as the Tree-and-Dragon clan, has set up shop on the world of Surebleak. The clan is under contract to keep the Port Road open to all traffic. They have also agreed back the New Bosses in imposing law and order on a society run by a criminal syndicate. The syndicate wants their power back. Adding to the complications, their enemy has survived. Most of the clan’s trading partners are spooked. With allies growing scare, the clan will have to make some hard choices.
Review:
I picked up Dragon in Exile at a book signing at the Toadstool Bookstore in Milford, NH. I will be honest: I should have started with an earlier novel in the series rather than jump into the latest release. Sharon Lee and Steve Miller have woven together a complex saga.
In this book we see a space faring family of traders who have taken up residence on a world run by a mafia type syndicate. The syndicate’s activities including murder, extortion, and destroying the livelihood of anyone who doesn’t pay. The clan seems to have made many enemies in the past including a dark power that brainwashes people into being their agents.
While it’s easy to see why Sharon Lee and Steve Miller have a huge following, I found the writing style hard to get used to. Again, I concede that this may be that I allowed myself to be dropped into a story without enough background to fully appreciate it. Fans of the Liaden series will be please. If you aren’t familiar with the series, I suggest you start with an earlier book.
Synopsis:
Clan Korval has been convicted of crimes against the homeworld. The crime was firing on the homeworld to eliminate real internal threats to the homeworld. Now the Clan Korval’s enemies want to see them destroyed. However, their allies conspire to impose exile.
Clan Korval, also know as the Tree-and-Dragon clan, has set up shop on the world of Surebleak. The clan is under contract to keep the Port Road open to all traffic. They have also agreed back the New Bosses in imposing law and order on a society run by a criminal syndicate. The syndicate wants their power back. Adding to the complications, their enemy has survived. Most of the clan’s trading partners are spooked. With allies growing scare, the clan will have to make some hard choices.
Review:
I picked up Dragon in Exile at a book signing at the Toadstool Bookstore in Milford, NH. I will be honest: I should have started with an earlier novel in the series rather than jump into the latest release. Sharon Lee and Steve Miller have woven together a complex saga.
In this book we see a space faring family of traders who have taken up residence on a world run by a mafia type syndicate. The syndicate’s activities including murder, extortion, and destroying the livelihood of anyone who doesn’t pay. The clan seems to have made many enemies in the past including a dark power that brainwashes people into being their agents.
While it’s easy to see why Sharon Lee and Steve Miller have a huge following, I found the writing style hard to get used to. Again, I concede that this may be that I allowed myself to be dropped into a story without enough background to fully appreciate it. Fans of the Liaden series will be please. If you aren’t familiar with the series, I suggest you start with an earlier book.
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