Liaden universe
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The Liaden universe (/liːˈeɪdɛn/ lee-AY-den or /liːˈeɪdən/) is the setting for a series of science fiction stories written by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller. The series blends elements of space opera with romance, intrigue, and fantasy.
As of July 2024, the series comprises 25 novels and 33 chapbooks (the stories within them now available as ebooks or in collections).
Setting
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The Liaden universe is a fictional setting spanning several millennia. A recurring focus is Clan Korval, a Liaden house known for its telepathic abilities and military tradition. The setting is a far-future galaxy undergoing a process called "decrystallization." Humanity, once inhabiting the galaxy, has undergone a diaspora resulting in three primary sub-races: Terran, Liaden, and Yxtrang.
Key Elements
[edit]- Clan Korval: A Liaden clan with a strong military tradition and telepathic abilities.
- Liaden Society: A complex society with a military tradition and a caste system.
- Decrystallizing Galaxy: The galaxy is undergoing a transformative process.
- Human Diaspora: Humanity is divided into Terran, Liaden, and Yxtrang sub-races.
- Telepathy: An ability used by Liaden for communication and other purposes.
Primary Themes
[edit]- Family and Loyalty: Familial and clan bonds are important, with characters often prioritizing the well-being of their loved ones.
- Military Strategy and Tactics: Military conflicts and strategic maneuvers are frequently depicted.
- Moral Ambiguity: Characters face complex choices with no easy answers.
- Exploration and Discovery: Characters travel to distant worlds and encounter new cultures and challenges.
The series features diverse alien cultures and advanced technology. Political intrigue is a common theme, as characters navigate the power dynamics of the Liaden Empire and interact with various alien factions. Interstellar travel and exploration are also significant elements.
Series overview
[edit]The first two books in the seven-book "Agent of Change" sequence were published in 1988. These books introduce the conflict between Clan Korval and the "Department of the Interior." While the department's headquarters on Liad is destroyed, remnants of the department continue to influence Clan Korval in later novels.
The eighth novel, Balance of Trade, is set 275 years before the end of the "Agent of Change" sequence. It introduces Jethri Gobelyn, a young Terran trader adopted by a Liaden Master Trader. Two sequels, Trade Secret and Fair Trade, were published in 2013 and 2022, respectively.
The ninth novel, Crystal Soldier, published in 2005, is set earlier in the timeline. It is the first half of The Great Migration Duology and tells the story of Cantra yos'Phelium, who piloted the original exodus to Liad, and her partner M Jela. The sequel, Crystal Dragon, was published in 2006.
Publication history
[edit]After the publication of the first three books (Agent of Change, Conflict of Honors, and Carpe Diem, 1988–1989), the authors were informed that sales were insufficient to justify continuing the series. The books, however, gained a following on the Usenet group rec.arts.sf.written.[1]
Upon gaining Internet access, the authors discovered a significant readership. They published several chapbooks and completed Plan B (1999), followed by three more books to complete the "Agent of Change" sequence. Numerous short stories were also written, expanding the universe's background and character development.
The first three novels were initially published by Del Rey, later republished by Meisha Merlin, and subsequently by Ace Books. Some early works were available as e-books through Embiid Publishing.
In 2007, Baen Books began publishing the novels electronically, followed by new Liaden novels starting in 2009 and omnibus editions in 2010.
As of 2022, the series includes twenty-three novels, numerous chapbooks, and short stories.[2][3][4][5] Additional novels are planned, and all novels are available as e-books.
Books in the series
[edit]Novels
[edit]Timeline chart
[edit]- ^ "rec.arts.sf.written Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)". Faqs.org. 18 June 2001. Retrieved 23 May 2007.
- ^ "Reading Order". Sharon Lee, Writer News from Maine, the Liaden Universe® and Points Between.
- ^ "Liaden Universe® InfoDump Number 106 : 2015 PUBLICATION SCHEDULE". Welcome to Liad: Clan Korval's Home on the Web. Korval.com. 8 January 2015.
- ^ "2015 Liaden Universe® and Other Releases". Welcome to Liad: Clan Korval's Home on the Web. Korval.com. 5 October 2014. Archived from the original on 23 July 2015. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ Sharon Lee & Steve Miller (2 June 2015). "Dragon in Exile". Baen Books. Retrieved 23 July 2015.