Fate of Worlds

April 15, 2013

New York Times best-selling sf author Niven and physicist/computer scientist-turned- author Lerner offer another title in the Known Space franchise that meshes the "Ringworld" and "Fleet of Worlds" series. Set before the discovery of the Ringworld by humans, this ambitious sf thriller has intriguing characters (among them some old, familiar faces--including puppeteers!), clever science concepts, and action galore, but the plot is just satisfactory, with a convenient ending that does not resolve all the loose ends. While this title is a stand-alone, some knowledge of the previous titles will aid in its enjoyment. VERDICT Stage actor Tom Weiner, who has won multiple Earphone Awards and an Audie nomination, provides an entertaining reading. Of interest to Niven and sf fans. ["Niven and Lerner...use their expertise in depicting memorable human and alien characters to enhance a story that will attract attention from series fans as well as readers of hard sf," read the review of the Tor hc, LJ 8/12.--Ed.]--Denise A. Garofalo, Mount Saint Mary Coll., Newburgh, NY

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