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Liaden Universe, Chronological #24
Trader's Leap
NEW ENTRY IN THE LANDMARK LIADEN UNIVERSE® SERIES
The only bridge between past and future is a leap of faith.
Pursued by enemies, exiled Liaden clan Korval is settling into a new base on backworld Surebleak. Moving is expensive, as is war, and Korval is strapped for cash. Delm Korval has therefore instructed Master Trader Shan yos'Galan to design and implement new trade routes, quickly.
But this is no easy task. Dutiful Passage is targeted by Korval's enemies, denied docking at respectable ports, and cheated at those less respectable. Struggling to recuperate from an attack on his life, while managing daughter Padi’s emerging psychic talents, Shan is running out of options—and time. His quest to establish the all-important trade route puts him at odds with his lifemate, while doubting crew desert the ship. Facing the prospect of failure, Shan accepts the assistance of chancy allies and turns the Passage toward a port only just emerging from Rostov's Dust and awash with strange energies.
Without trade, Clan Korval will starve. Will a trader's leap of faith save everything—or doom all?
The only bridge between past and future is a leap of faith.
Pursued by enemies, exiled Liaden clan Korval is settling into a new base on backworld Surebleak. Moving is expensive, as is war, and Korval is strapped for cash. Delm Korval has therefore instructed Master Trader Shan yos'Galan to design and implement new trade routes, quickly.
But this is no easy task. Dutiful Passage is targeted by Korval's enemies, denied docking at respectable ports, and cheated at those less respectable. Struggling to recuperate from an attack on his life, while managing daughter Padi’s emerging psychic talents, Shan is running out of options—and time. His quest to establish the all-important trade route puts him at odds with his lifemate, while doubting crew desert the ship. Facing the prospect of failure, Shan accepts the assistance of chancy allies and turns the Passage toward a port only just emerging from Rostov's Dust and awash with strange energies.
Without trade, Clan Korval will starve. Will a trader's leap of faith save everything—or doom all?
437 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2020
85 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Lee
147 books788 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 109 reviews
September 6, 2020
Brilliant! Lee & Miller's Liaden novels are amazing! I've read every single one, the novellas, and the short stories, and I never get tired of this world or these incredible characters.
If you haven't picked up this series, Agent of Change is a good starting point and the e-book is free. HOWEVER, I started with The Dragon Variation and never looked back, so that would be my rec for an amazing starting place.
If you haven't picked up this series, Agent of Change is a good starting point and the e-book is free. HOWEVER, I started with The Dragon Variation and never looked back, so that would be my rec for an amazing starting place.
August 11, 2023
Found a Korval family tree image at Liadon Fandom: https://liaden.fandom.com/wiki/Clan_K...
3.5 stars for this latest addition to the sprawling Liaden Universe. I enjoyed this more than expected, given that I couldn’t get into the book at first. Kept picking it up and putting it down — — that went on for several days. I think it struck me as anticlimactic, because I already know what happens from ACCEPTING THE LANCE. So... felt a bit plodding, trying to think waaay back to ALLIANCE OF EQUALS (where most of this book’s opening stuff went down) and remember names and slot these new events into proper sequence.
Some vague spoilers below. Be warned!
But then I became engrossed in Shan’s struggle to succeed, the trade strategies and endeavors, etc. I liked reading about how Shan came to terms with all the rejection and failure he’d received from various planets and stations. I liked the inclusion of Er Thom’s journals. Credible, and nothing wizardly about that.
I did not love all the time spent on wizardly workings, trainings, the stupid stylus, and other magical stuff — boring, and not my thing. And even after all the pages devoted to it, the writing is obscure and it is still not clear to me what exactly Lute was (an angel? starlight?) and what Moonhawk was (Crystal???).
There are some nice tie-backs to Lute and Moonhawk and the Iloheen in Crystal Dragon and to Jethri in Balance of Trade and the sequel, Trade Secret.
We do not yet find out who originally started the Department of Interior (could it be Bar Jan or his mother, some 200 years ago??). However, we do find out more about Tarona Rusk, the dramliza, who puts forth with her free will. Now, all these people freed from psychic binding to DOI, including a major healer from Solcinta Hall, should reproach the council on Liad and speak up in defense of Korval everywhere they go. Reparation is due. Also, we remember that the DOI most likely murdered Aelliana and Er Thom’s wife, Anne. And wounded Petrella, and killed Chi and SaeZar….and … Balance is due.
Sadly, but understandably, this book does not forward the half-forgotten plotline surrounding the Yxtrang ambassador, from several long books ago. Sigh.
But as the story progressed, I did enjoy watching young Padi and Vanz work out trading deals together, while the older master traders brought about their own brainstorm. But at Volmer, who was that Zoe hag working for??
I enjoyed the outcasts coming out of the Dust, in the Redlands, on Colemena, both off-grid for the Haosa and for those who dwell in Civilization. It’s an interesting place, rich with opportunity for future sequels.
The Luck was in it thrice over for Korval. Good things come, finally and in full measure, to Tree & Dragon and the beleaguered Dutiful Passage!
(Nice cover art. It appears to depict young ‘prentice traders, Padi yos’Galan and Vanz Carresens-Denobli touring the marketplace at Volmer.)
3.5 stars for this latest addition to the sprawling Liaden Universe. I enjoyed this more than expected, given that I couldn’t get into the book at first. Kept picking it up and putting it down — — that went on for several days. I think it struck me as anticlimactic, because I already know what happens from ACCEPTING THE LANCE. So... felt a bit plodding, trying to think waaay back to ALLIANCE OF EQUALS (where most of this book’s opening stuff went down) and remember names and slot these new events into proper sequence.
Some vague spoilers below. Be warned!
But then I became engrossed in Shan’s struggle to succeed, the trade strategies and endeavors, etc. I liked reading about how Shan came to terms with all the rejection and failure he’d received from various planets and stations. I liked the inclusion of Er Thom’s journals. Credible, and nothing wizardly about that.
I did not love all the time spent on wizardly workings, trainings, the stupid stylus, and other magical stuff — boring, and not my thing. And even after all the pages devoted to it, the writing is obscure and it is still not clear to me what exactly Lute was (an angel? starlight?) and what Moonhawk was (Crystal???).
There are some nice tie-backs to Lute and Moonhawk and the Iloheen in Crystal Dragon and to Jethri in Balance of Trade and the sequel, Trade Secret.
We do not yet find out who originally started the Department of Interior (could it be Bar Jan or his mother, some 200 years ago??). However, we do find out more about Tarona Rusk, the dramliza, who puts forth with her free will. Now, all these people freed from psychic binding to DOI, including a major healer from Solcinta Hall, should reproach the council on Liad and speak up in defense of Korval everywhere they go. Reparation is due. Also, we remember that the DOI most likely murdered Aelliana and Er Thom’s wife, Anne. And wounded Petrella, and killed Chi and SaeZar….and … Balance is due.
Sadly, but understandably, this book does not forward the half-forgotten plotline surrounding the Yxtrang ambassador, from several long books ago. Sigh.
But as the story progressed, I did enjoy watching young Padi and Vanz work out trading deals together, while the older master traders brought about their own brainstorm. But at Volmer, who was that Zoe hag working for??
I enjoyed the outcasts coming out of the Dust, in the Redlands, on Colemena, both off-grid for the Haosa and for those who dwell in Civilization. It’s an interesting place, rich with opportunity for future sequels.
The Luck was in it thrice over for Korval. Good things come, finally and in full measure, to Tree & Dragon and the beleaguered Dutiful Passage!
(Nice cover art. It appears to depict young ‘prentice traders, Padi yos’Galan and Vanz Carresens-Denobli touring the marketplace at Volmer.)
September 20, 2020
A little hippity skippity in the beginning, ties up plot threads and pulls the last few stories together.
Still want to see a reunion at Surebleak rather than just the letters. 😅
Still want to see a reunion at Surebleak rather than just the letters. 😅
October 20, 2024
Halloween Bingo 2024
The Liaden Universe never fails to charm me and this volume was like visiting an old friend. I recognized the characters, applauded their plans, and was pleased to see them prevail. Lee and Miller are/were expert at creating a sweeping number of people who could carry this complicated number of plotlines while making it seem easy.
Shan yos'Galen, master trader, has been charged by the Delm of Clan Korval to find new trade routes and to do his best to replenish the clan's finances following their expulsion from the planet of Liad and relocation to Surebleak. He is training his daughter Padi, who had been suppressing her mental talents until they dangerously exploded on her. Now she must learn to control them and to shield herself, without injuring others. Padi is a talent, a dramliza of extraordinary power, but her heart's desire is master trader status.
This novel is very much centered on Padi and Shan. In the very first books that I read in this series, Shan was a small boy, so the authors have persevered over many years (and I do note that this is volume 23). I am every bit as engaged today as I was at the beginning.
Korval still find themselves pursued by the Department of the Interior—their welcome has been withdrawn at many space stations and they are treated deceitfully at others. This makes trade next to impossible, leading Shan to think outside the box. Now that the Dust is settling away from the planets of the Redlands, they are an untouched market. The traders outfit themselves with an assortment of trade goods, including up-to-date stellar maps and useful ship parts and set off to try their luck.
I greatly enjoyed this visit with my favourite family and I would be lying if I didn’t say that the novel was finished far too soon. However, I still have not reached the end of the line. Rumour has it that Sharon Lee will continue writing despite her mate's untimely recent death. I wish her all good things with her future endeavours and tender my sincere thanks for the hours of entertainment that she and Steve have provided to me over the years. I am a faithful re-reader, so I know their books will provide sustenance for years to come.
I read this book to fulfill the Lost in Space square of my Halloween Bingo card. It is also number 20 in my 2024 Read Your Hoard Challenge and number 530 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project.
The Liaden Universe never fails to charm me and this volume was like visiting an old friend. I recognized the characters, applauded their plans, and was pleased to see them prevail. Lee and Miller are/were expert at creating a sweeping number of people who could carry this complicated number of plotlines while making it seem easy.
Shan yos'Galen, master trader, has been charged by the Delm of Clan Korval to find new trade routes and to do his best to replenish the clan's finances following their expulsion from the planet of Liad and relocation to Surebleak. He is training his daughter Padi, who had been suppressing her mental talents until they dangerously exploded on her. Now she must learn to control them and to shield herself, without injuring others. Padi is a talent, a dramliza of extraordinary power, but her heart's desire is master trader status.
This novel is very much centered on Padi and Shan. In the very first books that I read in this series, Shan was a small boy, so the authors have persevered over many years (and I do note that this is volume 23). I am every bit as engaged today as I was at the beginning.
Korval still find themselves pursued by the Department of the Interior—their welcome has been withdrawn at many space stations and they are treated deceitfully at others. This makes trade next to impossible, leading Shan to think outside the box. Now that the Dust is settling away from the planets of the Redlands, they are an untouched market. The traders outfit themselves with an assortment of trade goods, including up-to-date stellar maps and useful ship parts and set off to try their luck.
I greatly enjoyed this visit with my favourite family and I would be lying if I didn’t say that the novel was finished far too soon. However, I still have not reached the end of the line. Rumour has it that Sharon Lee will continue writing despite her mate's untimely recent death. I wish her all good things with her future endeavours and tender my sincere thanks for the hours of entertainment that she and Steve have provided to me over the years. I am a faithful re-reader, so I know their books will provide sustenance for years to come.
I read this book to fulfill the Lost in Space square of my Halloween Bingo card. It is also number 20 in my 2024 Read Your Hoard Challenge and number 530 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project.
October 23, 2020
I could be satisfied if this was the last Liaden book, though I know more are planned (sequels to the Jethri books Balance of Trade and Trade Secret, I believe). If Accepting the Lance closed off Val Con and Miri's story arc that began in Agent of Change, Trader's Leap closes off Shan and Priscilla's that began in Conflict of Honors, and in a very satisfying way.
Shan and Priscilla have always been my favorite characters of the series, and this book focuses on the two of them as well as Shan's daughter Padi from a previous relationship, picking up with the Dutiful Passage and its crew a little while after the end of Alliance of Equals and running concurrently with and a little past the end of Accepting the Lance. Padi is struggling with the awakening of her mental gifts, which have the potential to derail the future she'd planned for herself as a trader, while Shan still suffers the aftereffects of his encounter with and healing of a powerful dramliza working for the Department of the Interior even as Korval's future in trade is placed on his shoulders and Priscilla deals with low crew morale after the death of a security officer in the previous book and finds herself called on once again to be the vessel of the goddess Moonhawk. Elsewhere, cousins Bentamin, Warden of Civilization on a remote planet, and Tekelia (possibly the series' first canon nonbinary character), Speaker for the Haosa, a group of chaotic talents who live off-grid, await the coming of events their aunt the Oracle has foretold.
This book worked better structurally and pacing-wise for me than the last few because all of its disparate plot threads are in fact of a piece and not genuinely parallel narratives, and it was satisfying to watch everything come together in the end. It feels like an ending, as we get closure not just for Padi, but for Shan and Priscilla and Lute and Moonhawk, for the conflict introduced in distant prequels Crystal Soldier and Crystal Dragon, and even for Shan's father Er Thom as we see his work as Master Trader yield the solution for Korval's present conflict. In addition, I found it nice to get away from Surebleak and the Bedel, which have dominated the last several volumes and I would be very glad to spend more time on the worlds introduced here in a future novel or chapbook.
Shan and Priscilla have always been my favorite characters of the series, and this book focuses on the two of them as well as Shan's daughter Padi from a previous relationship, picking up with the Dutiful Passage and its crew a little while after the end of Alliance of Equals and running concurrently with and a little past the end of Accepting the Lance. Padi is struggling with the awakening of her mental gifts, which have the potential to derail the future she'd planned for herself as a trader, while Shan still suffers the aftereffects of his encounter with and healing of a powerful dramliza working for the Department of the Interior even as Korval's future in trade is placed on his shoulders and Priscilla deals with low crew morale after the death of a security officer in the previous book and finds herself called on once again to be the vessel of the goddess Moonhawk. Elsewhere, cousins Bentamin, Warden of Civilization on a remote planet, and Tekelia (possibly the series' first canon nonbinary character), Speaker for the Haosa, a group of chaotic talents who live off-grid, await the coming of events their aunt the Oracle has foretold.
This book worked better structurally and pacing-wise for me than the last few because all of its disparate plot threads are in fact of a piece and not genuinely parallel narratives, and it was satisfying to watch everything come together in the end. It feels like an ending, as we get closure not just for Padi, but for Shan and Priscilla and Lute and Moonhawk, for the conflict introduced in distant prequels Crystal Soldier and Crystal Dragon, and even for Shan's father Er Thom as we see his work as Master Trader yield the solution for Korval's present conflict. In addition, I found it nice to get away from Surebleak and the Bedel, which have dominated the last several volumes and I would be very glad to spend more time on the worlds introduced here in a future novel or chapbook.
December 7, 2020
This is the 23rd novel in the Liaden Universe, and it is so good to be back with old friends, and some new ones. I have to hold myself back from starting the series all over again, and reading the entire series (I've already done that 3 times).
Shan, Priscilla and Padi have been charged by the Korval Delm to seek out new trade routes, since Korval has been banned from so many of their old trading planets. Padi comes to the forefront here and she is a wonderful character. I have to admit, that I miss Val Con, Miri, Daav, Aelli, Theo, Bechimo, the Clutch, Jeeves and the Tree, and last but not least the cats.
Shan, Priscilla and Padi have been charged by the Korval Delm to seek out new trade routes, since Korval has been banned from so many of their old trading planets. Padi comes to the forefront here and she is a wonderful character. I have to admit, that I miss Val Con, Miri, Daav, Aelli, Theo, Bechimo, the Clutch, Jeeves and the Tree, and last but not least the cats.
September 7, 2020
Enjoyable addition to the Liaden Universe. The main story line follows Padi, who was prominent in Alliance of Equals. A lot of loose threads were tied off nicely, with possibilities of more adventures in the wings for Padi and other characters.
This review based on the eARC, purchased from Baen.
This review based on the eARC, purchased from Baen.
November 12, 2023
This twenty-third book in the Liaden Universe focuses on Shan, Priscilla, Padi and the Dutiful Passage though it doesn't begin with them.
We begin on a planet we haven't seen before which is divided into two main cultures - Civilization and the Haosa - and which has recently had an attack by Reavers who wanted to kidnap and steal the power from some of the people. There is a lot of psychic talent on the planet and the Oracle is telling them that Great Ones are coming.
Back on the Passage we find Shan trying to recover from the depletion of his psychic talent after he healed and was healed by Tarona Rusk - a dramliza in the service of the Department of the Interior. We also find Padi who is learning about her new and unwanted dramliza powers which are getting in the way of her desire to become a Master Trader.
Shan's mission is to find new and profitable trade routes to benefit his clan but he is having trouble because of the continuing interference of agents of the Department of the Interior. He does have some hope when he connects with a representative of the Carresens-Denobli family who are another non-Liaden trade family which a long history. He also has more luck when he determines to explore a new region of space which has recently come out from behind Rostov's Dust.
We also get to see Tarona Rusk on her new quest to destroy the Department - get revenge on the Department - the co-opted and used her for their gain. And we see one of the other results of Shan's healing of Tarona in that the talents that survived the severing of Rusk's control have their own plans for the dissolution of the Department of the Interior.
And finally, we see the results of the final defeat of the ancient enemy that forced the escape from the old universe and how that effects Moonhawk and Lute and their current vessel Priscilla and descendant Shan.
This was an engaging and entertaining story that I just gulped down and which will stand up to any number of rereads. Of course, there are threads left dangling and questions left unanswered for long-time fans of the series. But this story also brings to an end some of the long-running plot threads. Hopefully, we have seen the last of the Department of the Interior. And there are so many new possibilities for Korval...
We begin on a planet we haven't seen before which is divided into two main cultures - Civilization and the Haosa - and which has recently had an attack by Reavers who wanted to kidnap and steal the power from some of the people. There is a lot of psychic talent on the planet and the Oracle is telling them that Great Ones are coming.
Back on the Passage we find Shan trying to recover from the depletion of his psychic talent after he healed and was healed by Tarona Rusk - a dramliza in the service of the Department of the Interior. We also find Padi who is learning about her new and unwanted dramliza powers which are getting in the way of her desire to become a Master Trader.
Shan's mission is to find new and profitable trade routes to benefit his clan but he is having trouble because of the continuing interference of agents of the Department of the Interior. He does have some hope when he connects with a representative of the Carresens-Denobli family who are another non-Liaden trade family which a long history. He also has more luck when he determines to explore a new region of space which has recently come out from behind Rostov's Dust.
We also get to see Tarona Rusk on her new quest to destroy the Department - get revenge on the Department - the co-opted and used her for their gain. And we see one of the other results of Shan's healing of Tarona in that the talents that survived the severing of Rusk's control have their own plans for the dissolution of the Department of the Interior.
And finally, we see the results of the final defeat of the ancient enemy that forced the escape from the old universe and how that effects Moonhawk and Lute and their current vessel Priscilla and descendant Shan.
This was an engaging and entertaining story that I just gulped down and which will stand up to any number of rereads. Of course, there are threads left dangling and questions left unanswered for long-time fans of the series. But this story also brings to an end some of the long-running plot threads. Hopefully, we have seen the last of the Department of the Interior. And there are so many new possibilities for Korval...
March 16, 2021
Much better than the last book in the series. It didn't have so many random characters. It was great to see a focus on a younger of member of the Korval clan. There was only one scene (between Shan and the human master trader) that was written so fancily that it was infuriatingly unclear.
The story was nice and I liked the characters and it ended well.
I wonder why the authors decided to hide the gender of the person who Padi met in the ambient. I expected some kind of answer when they actually met.
I hope for many more books in the series.
The story was nice and I liked the characters and it ended well.
I wonder why the authors decided to hide the gender of the person who Padi met in the ambient. I expected some kind of answer when they actually met.
I hope for many more books in the series.
September 21, 2020
Very enjoyable read, as always.
February 16, 2021
This is the companion volume to Accepting the Lance, wherein the authors finish wrapping up the adventure of Clan Korval.
Although I did not discover this series at its very beginning (Agent of Change, 1988), I rectified that
lapse when Partners In Necessity was released in 2000. I was hooked! I've read and re-read these books so many times, I have lost the ability to be impartial.
I am very happy with this book. The authors did a great job of tying up the loose ends and then sending our characters into a promising future.
Well done, Sharon and Steve, well done.
Although I did not discover this series at its very beginning (Agent of Change, 1988), I rectified that
lapse when Partners In Necessity was released in 2000. I was hooked! I've read and re-read these books so many times, I have lost the ability to be impartial.
I am very happy with this book. The authors did a great job of tying up the loose ends and then sending our characters into a promising future.
Well done, Sharon and Steve, well done.
October 22, 2020
They just keep getting better. Read this one quickly and will go back & read it again soon.
December 15, 2020
Wonderful story! Slow beginning! Ties up a lot of threads! I'm already doing a second reading - I loved Shan's reaction to Val Con's letter!
December 30, 2021
As always, a fantastic mix of adventure, magic, family, romance, space shenanigans… I love Korval like few other literary families.
A lot of things wrapped up in this one. I wonder where they’ll take us after Jethro’s book.
A lot of things wrapped up in this one. I wonder where they’ll take us after Jethro’s book.
September 11, 2020
Runs concurrently with Alliance of Equals. Filled with so many twists and turns. Could not put it down.
January 1, 2021
What was happening across the universe while some of our intrepid heroes were fighting to close the door on a very old enemy? Find out in this book, a great addition to the Liaden universe.
July 13, 2023
Again, in the beginning a bit too much repetition for those who have faithfully read all the previous novels as well as a certain lack of excitement if one knows the outcome of "Accepting the Lance". However, this book does project the storyline into new and interesting dimensions once it gets going. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased to see both the Carresen-Denobli syndicate & Clan Ixen reappear.
December 6, 2020
An altogether excellent installment in this long-running series, which ties up some older arcs and introduces new ways to move forward. Once again, I ponder the unfairness of how long it takes to write a book as opposed to read the same.
December 10, 2020
2020 bk 406: A new Liaden Universe novel is an early Christmas present to myself. This is set in the trader's world, mostly aboard space ship. Shan is trying to find new customers and trade routes for Korval. His daughter, Padi, is working to achieve her master trader's ring when her dramliza skills emerge and threaten to sidetrack her goals in life. Together, father and daughter, and their ship must find a balance, new customers, trade partners, and essentially a new life for Korval to continue. These author's never fail to satisfy the reader.
January 25, 2021
This is a 7/10. I don't quite feel like giving it my standard 4 star for a solid Liaden book. It's just slightly boring compared to the normal fare. It doesn't have the action of the earlier published books, which some later ones also have. I also have affection for books largely set on Surebleak, because of the mix of native culture there with Liaden. This isn't actively annoying to me, as most of the latest Theo/AI-ship stuff has been, but it still it doesn't quite pop.
September 8, 2020
I read the ArC....and loved it.
January 18, 2021
Like the last book in the series, this was a harder start than the pre-Theo Waitley books (not to confuse you: this is a Dutiful Passage story -- she's not in this installment). I got my groove around pp. 75 and am glad I kept reading. I do like the trader interactions, so this trip with Padi, Shan and Pricilla was fun. The reason this book confused me at the start was the introduction of the culture/planet beyond the dust that was the refuge for a subset of the dramaliza (helped of course by Korval centuries ago). Their culture was harder to understand than the subcultures on Surebleak & I don't think I ever really understood it. It's also somewhat hard to get invested in these characters, since like the gypsy-like people that were featured in a few books, I expect them to fade out of the longer narrative.
The reintroduction of Ixiln (sp?) & reference to Gordy was nice -- it made me want to re-read those stories. I'm somewhat tired of the dramaliza storyline at this point -- would rather read more about the ships & the post-war politics that Korval is navigating.
Padi reminds me of Nova, and is somewhat hard to see as a unique individual. It would be fun to see a Korval who is more of the original Pat Rin type -- there are too many perfect kids & reasonable/daring leaders. I had originally thought we'd have a Padi who was denying who she was and actually HAD to give up a path she wanted to go down, was going to be rebellious & difficult -- a growth story. That didn't happen. Ever the dutiful daughter of the clan, she followed orders & didn't have to make any personal sacrifices. That kind of bummed me out.
I'm looking forward to the next Liaden installment, though am hoping to focus on other characters/storylines.
The reintroduction of Ixiln (sp?) & reference to Gordy was nice -- it made me want to re-read those stories. I'm somewhat tired of the dramaliza storyline at this point -- would rather read more about the ships & the post-war politics that Korval is navigating.
Padi reminds me of Nova, and is somewhat hard to see as a unique individual. It would be fun to see a Korval who is more of the original Pat Rin type -- there are too many perfect kids & reasonable/daring leaders. I had originally thought we'd have a Padi who was denying who she was and actually HAD to give up a path she wanted to go down, was going to be rebellious & difficult -- a growth story. That didn't happen. Ever the dutiful daughter of the clan, she followed orders & didn't have to make any personal sacrifices. That kind of bummed me out.
I'm looking forward to the next Liaden installment, though am hoping to focus on other characters/storylines.
October 25, 2020
I purchased an eARC directly from Baen.
This is book 23 in the Liaden series, so by all that is good--don't start here!
The high quality of this series written over decades and extending over universes and millennia in storytime continues the adventures of Clan Korval as they face their enemies and gain new allies.
Trader's Leap is a direct sequel to Alliance of Equals and occurs simultaneously with Neogenesis and Accepting the Lance. So no Theo (who is one of my favs) or Val Con but honestly it's a bit of a relief to be off Surebleak for a while and moving from spaceport to spaceport until we get to a surprising new world.
Padi is the young viewpoint character and she is struggling to understand her new abilities and focusing on attaining her Trader's status. She is very much a child of Korval and her interactions with everyone make for fun reading.
At the heart of the story is Shan and Priscilla who are the current incarnations/vessels for Moonhawk and Lute. I'll admit to beginning the Liaden journey way back in the 90s with my first book, Conflict of Honors, and not really understanding the Moonhawk and Lute business. It was perhaps not the best choice as an entry into the series, but as I've gone on in the series their mystical natures have become clearer and I really loved their journey as individuals and as a couple in this story.
Shan has been hurt and his actions have hurt others and he has to come to terms with that. Priscilla has to guide the ship and consider her role as a leader, lifemate, and dramaliz. So many plot lines come together in this book in a very satisfying way and there is closure for some characters who have been left hanging.
I had fun with this one, particularly given our difficult times; it reminds us of how much the moral arc of the universe bends towards justice, mercy, and joy. And love.
This is book 23 in the Liaden series, so by all that is good--don't start here!
The high quality of this series written over decades and extending over universes and millennia in storytime continues the adventures of Clan Korval as they face their enemies and gain new allies.
Trader's Leap is a direct sequel to Alliance of Equals and occurs simultaneously with Neogenesis and Accepting the Lance. So no Theo (who is one of my favs) or Val Con but honestly it's a bit of a relief to be off Surebleak for a while and moving from spaceport to spaceport until we get to a surprising new world.
Padi is the young viewpoint character and she is struggling to understand her new abilities and focusing on attaining her Trader's status. She is very much a child of Korval and her interactions with everyone make for fun reading.
At the heart of the story is Shan and Priscilla who are the current incarnations/vessels for Moonhawk and Lute. I'll admit to beginning the Liaden journey way back in the 90s with my first book, Conflict of Honors, and not really understanding the Moonhawk and Lute business. It was perhaps not the best choice as an entry into the series, but as I've gone on in the series their mystical natures have become clearer and I really loved their journey as individuals and as a couple in this story.
Shan has been hurt and his actions have hurt others and he has to come to terms with that. Priscilla has to guide the ship and consider her role as a leader, lifemate, and dramaliz. So many plot lines come together in this book in a very satisfying way and there is closure for some characters who have been left hanging.
I had fun with this one, particularly given our difficult times; it reminds us of how much the moral arc of the universe bends towards justice, mercy, and joy. And love.
March 12, 2024
Here we have another great book by Sharon Lee. The #23 is just that--the 23rd book in this universe. They're non-linear, so you could start with this one. But you'd be confused.
In any event, the main characters are Shan and his wife Priscilla. Shan, a native Liaden, suave, clever, smart, and magical. He's also a deft Healer. His wife is linked to him magically. She's even more powerful, being a trained high priestess, and the vessel for the goddess Moonhawk.
Then there's their child Padi. She's more powerful than either, with few limits on her power or abilities. But she's quite untrained. She's more interested in becoming a Master Trader, like her father.
We haven't even gotten to the plot yet. As traders within the House of Korval they're assigned to set up new trade routes. Then there's the Department, a secret organization dedicated to destroying House Korval.
So you have a complex piece of a huge saga. Start with books 'Balance of Trade' or 'Crystal Soldier' and work your way here.
In any event, the main characters are Shan and his wife Priscilla. Shan, a native Liaden, suave, clever, smart, and magical. He's also a deft Healer. His wife is linked to him magically. She's even more powerful, being a trained high priestess, and the vessel for the goddess Moonhawk.
Then there's their child Padi. She's more powerful than either, with few limits on her power or abilities. But she's quite untrained. She's more interested in becoming a Master Trader, like her father.
We haven't even gotten to the plot yet. As traders within the House of Korval they're assigned to set up new trade routes. Then there's the Department, a secret organization dedicated to destroying House Korval.
So you have a complex piece of a huge saga. Start with books 'Balance of Trade' or 'Crystal Soldier' and work your way here.
July 3, 2021
Just finished reading the latest Liaden novel. (I've read all coming before.) It was good to have time spent on Dutiful Passage with Padi, Shan and Pricilla, all of them struggling with their powers. Trader's Leap also has a lot more of Moonhawk (not a fan) and Lute (big fan). For those who are fans of these two, you'll enjoy seeing them here. For those who aren't fans, you'll enjoy seeing them here. For those like me, you'll be conflicted. This book also contains a lot of interesting history, but mostly focuses on Dutiful Passage. All your favorite characters not stationed on the Passage are probably referenced but no, for example, Val Con & Miri action. Definitely read this book, definitely read the previous books first. Then read whatever Lee & Miller write next in the series.
November 12, 2020
Shan yos'Galan has a charge. Getting it done is going to be difficult as he is not up to par after being almost killed in the previous book. Now he and crew are looking for a new trade route and danger is just around the corner. Great addition. Fills some holes in the story arc. Not for the first time reader. Start at the beginning not here.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
February 11, 2021
The newest addition to one of my top 5 all-time favorite series! I love the characters, the worlds, and the adventures. I love the manners and the gifts. Just so much to love.
July 30, 2021
Shan yos'Galen, Clan Korval's Master Trader, is working to build profitable new trade routes to make up for its lost routes and its expensive move from Liad to Surebleak. Unfortunately, Korval's enemies and rivals are still at work, and it's not proving easy to find ports that are profitable, respectable, and willing to welcome the ships of the Tree & Dragon.
It's a task not made easier by Shan's near-fatal clash with an agent of the Department of the Interior, or by his daughter and heir, Padi's, newly emerged dramliz powers and her reluctance to embrace them. There is, nevertheless, a potentially promising contact with Terran Trader Janifer Carresens-Denobli, and an unexpected encounter on Pommierport, with down-at-heels Luck and his unlikely companion.
Dutiful Passage and her crew are in for some exciting, scary adventures they'd have preferred to skip, but Shan also finds a new trade prospect, that only requires overturning all the standard ideas of how trade routes should work. Established structures just aren't going to do it for Korval, in their dangerous new circumstances.
We spend time with some familiar old friends, including norbears, and some interesting new ones, too. Korval isn't alone in not being well served by tradition, right now. Overall, this is a fast-paced, exciting story with new and old characters who have depth and a feeling of reality. And since this is the Liaden universe, the universe itself undergoes some development and change.
It's a lot of fun, completely enjoyable, and I strongly recommend it.
I bought this book.
It's a task not made easier by Shan's near-fatal clash with an agent of the Department of the Interior, or by his daughter and heir, Padi's, newly emerged dramliz powers and her reluctance to embrace them. There is, nevertheless, a potentially promising contact with Terran Trader Janifer Carresens-Denobli, and an unexpected encounter on Pommierport, with down-at-heels Luck and his unlikely companion.
Dutiful Passage and her crew are in for some exciting, scary adventures they'd have preferred to skip, but Shan also finds a new trade prospect, that only requires overturning all the standard ideas of how trade routes should work. Established structures just aren't going to do it for Korval, in their dangerous new circumstances.
We spend time with some familiar old friends, including norbears, and some interesting new ones, too. Korval isn't alone in not being well served by tradition, right now. Overall, this is a fast-paced, exciting story with new and old characters who have depth and a feeling of reality. And since this is the Liaden universe, the universe itself undergoes some development and change.
It's a lot of fun, completely enjoyable, and I strongly recommend it.
I bought this book.
October 28, 2023
I enjoyed this addition to the Liaden Universe series. Because it is a ‘universe’ the stories are often happening concurrently. Some events in this book were as the result of things that happened in Neogenesis. The main focus of this book is what is going on with the crew of Dutiful Passage is they seek out new trade routes to support Clan Korval. As with most of the later books in this series, I wouldn’t recommend starting here as I really don’t think a person could enjoy this book in any way, shape, or form, as a standalone story. I am really enjoying getting caught up on this series. After finishing this book I went back and read the last 100 pages or so of Neogenesis and poked around in The Gathering Edge and Alliance of Equals so I could refresh my memory on some of these concurrent events happening around the universe.
December 21, 2020
This book picks up very shortly after the events in "Alliance of Equals" where Master Trader Shan yos'Galan and Apprentice Trader Padi yos'Galan were injured and are now recovering from injuries and Padi's newly emerged talent needs to be categorized and trained. The Master Trader is exploring the possibility of a new trade opportunity.
We meet the people on a planet that was colonized in large part by people banished from Liad long ago. Here's where it gets confusing. "The ambient' is refered to regularly but no information is given about it. All came clear when I read the novella and short story "Ambient Conditions" and 'Prefered Seating' which explained the ambient and how some people are too sensitive to that condition to stay there.
It probably would have been less confusing if I hadn't read 'Trader's Leap' as an e-ARC a few months before the novella and short story came out but I can't help thinking that more of the information could have been included in the book.
Other than that I enjoyed the book thoroughly and hope to see more of all of the new people we met including a new trade alliance and the people of the new planet.
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