Inquiring author wants to know

[rolanni]

In your opinion, what is the:

Darkest Liaden book?

Lightest Liaden book?

Please show your work, by which I mean, explain your choice.

NOTE:  Since the eArc of Dragon in Exile is available and some folks have read it, it may be nominated for either of the above categories.  HOWEVER, since the official publication date is not yet upon us, please, if you do nominate DiE, leave a spoiler space before your explanation, out of compassion for those who wait for the retail release.  Thanks.

Comments

Liaden light and dark

[kyahgirl.livejournal.com]

Hi Sharon, this is an incredibly difficult question to answer.

I have been pondering the darkest Liaden book and it is not easy to settle on one. There are very dark elements in many of the books. For example, in the Great Migration Duology, the beings who were 'unmaking' the universe were monstrous. Its been a while since I read those two but I still recall the description of the 'dramliz training' program where the student has to make and unmake a sentient being and feel all it feels. That was pretty darn dark. However, the overall feeling of triumph at the end of that duology seemed to balance it out. Cantra and Jela and the tree were fantastic too.

My second thought was 'I Dare'. There is a lot going on in that book and many dark events such as Anthora's capture. Yet again, the culmination of the all the action was exhilarating and, although they won the battle not the war, there was a feeling of hope and excitement at the end.

I finally settled on Scout's Progress. I haven't read that one for a few years but I still recall the horror I felt when seeing Aelliana Caylon's life and the way she was treated. Perhaps it left a bigger impression because it is easier to relate to domestic violence than the evil of the DoI or the unmakers.

For me the lightest book is Balance of Trade.

I love all the books and all the short stories!