The Gathering Edge

The long-running Liaden series returns with The Gathering Edge and focuses on Theo Waitley and her self-ware ship.

The crew of Bechimo are hiding out in safe space until a hole in space-time allows a ship to come through. This ship is potentially all that remains of a war fought in the deep past in another universe. Theo and crew must deal with this blast from the past while dodging those who want to destroy her ship. As the title might suggest, this is just the edge of something new. Much is revealed, but additional mysteries and threats arise.

Despite being the twentieth book in the series, The Gathering Edge is accessible to new readers. While some of the finer details might go unnoticed, there is always enough context to allow new readers to slide right into the flow of things. In true sci-fi fashion, heavy concepts are dealt with, such as consciousness and self-awareness. Not only is the ship alive, one of the pilots is an AI construct with aspirations for more. Some of the terms and cultural behaviors can be jarring, but allow the story to unfold and all begins to make sense. This entry in the series feels a bit slower paced and contemplative but is nonetheless engaging and a joy to read.