Tag: Elizabeth Moon

Elizabeth Moon’s SPEED OF DARK has been Re-Issued in the UK!

Posted on Thursday, June 17th, 2021

We just wanted to draw people’s attention to the re-issued edition of Elizabeth Moon‘s Nebula Award-winning SPEED OF DARK. Published in the UK by Orbit, here’s the synopsis…

Lou has been told he is different to ‘normal’ people. He interacts with the world in a way they do not understand. He might not see the things they see, however, but he also sees many things they do not. Lou is autistic.
One of his skills is an ability to find patterns in data: extraordinary, complex, beautiful patterns that not even the most powerful computers can comprehend. The company he works for has made considerable sums of money from Lou’s work. But now they want Lou to change – to become ‘normal’ like themselves. And he must face the greatest challenge of his life. To understand the speed of dark.

SPEED OF DARK is a powerful near-future thriller, the theme of which is both universal and intensely personal. It is dedicated to the author’s own autistic son, and to other parents of autistic children, ‘in the hope that they also find that delight in difference’.

Here are just a few of the great reviews the novel has received, since it was first published in 2002…

‘Compelling […] a poignant earnestness that borders on the philosophical and showcases Moon’s gift for characterization […] will touch even the most jaded.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘Inevitably, THE SPEED OF DARK has been compared to Daniel Keyes’ classic and tragic Flowers for Algernon, in which a mentally disabled young man is medically enhanced to become a genius. THE SPEED OF DARK may be an even greater book […] it is [a] subtle, eerily nuanced character portrait of a man who is both unforgettable and unlike anyone else in fiction […] The end of THE SPEED OF DARK is not unexpected, but it is marvelous all the same, and exceptionally moving in its balance of loss and wonder […] It is a measure of Elizabeth Moon’s genius that she enables a reader to thoroughly experience the world through Lou’s tangled but exhilarating neurology, and wonder what we “normal” people are missing when we don’t acknowledge our connection to those who seem so different from us. A lot of novels promise to change the way a reader sees the world; THE SPEED OF DARK actually does.’ — Washington Post

‘This poignant work, which won the 2004 Nebula prize for respected science-fiction author Elizabeth Moon […] will leave a deep impression upon the reader. The pages will make you hold your breath until the very last line.’ — Associated Press (France)

‘For those of you who are a bit shy of hardcore SF, one of your best bets is Elizabeth Moon. She’s been writing great science fiction for years […] a highly sensitive treatment of the world of an autistic man set in the not too distant future […] For people with autism, the world can be a very scary place, and Moon documents poignantly their battle to interact with a world of shapes, sounds and feelings that are strangers to them.’ — Times (UK)

‘A stunner. Not just for parents and friends of autistic individuals, not just for sf fans — THE SPEED OF DARK makes me remember why I love Moon for her ability to immerse me in the thought processes of a sympathetic, transparent protagonist.’ — The AV Club

‘A touching account. Well-written, intelligent, quite moving. Moon places the reader inside the world of an autistic and unflinchingly conveys the authenticity of his situation.’ — Kirkus (Starred Review)

‘Significant and evocative […] While the theme must have an enormous emotional charge for Elizabeth Moon, she does not forget she is a novelist.’ — Le Monde (France)

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Vatta’s War: Elizabeth Moon re-issues out tomorrow in the UK!

Posted on Wednesday, September 11th, 2019

Tomorrow, Orbit Books are re-issuing the first two volumes in Elizabeth Moon‘s critically-acclaimed sci-fi series Vatta’s War in the UK!

TRADING IN DANGER, the first novel in the series, introduces readers to Ky Vatta…

Ky Vatta is a highly promising military cadet with a great future ahead of her, until an insignificant act of kindness makes her the focus of the Academy’s wrath. She is forced to resign, her dreams shattered.

For the child of a rich trading family, this should mean disgrace on a grand scale. And yet, to her surprise, Ky is offered the captaincy of a ship headed for scrap with its final cargo.

Her orders are absolutely clear, but Ky quickly sees potential profit in altering the journey. Because, whatever the risks, it’s in her blood to trade – even if the currency is extreme danger.

And here’s the synopsis for the second book, MOVING TARGET…

Ky Vatta was a military cadet destined for great things, until an act of kindness incurred her Academy’s wrath and ended her career.

Instead of the expected disgrace, her rich trader family gave her captaincy of a small ship, to sell for scrap. In flagrant disregard of orders, she saw the opportunity to make a profit and save the ship.

Several upgrades later, Ky is determined to retain the ship and her independence in the cut-throat world of interplanetary trading. But a threat emerges that challenges even her sharp wits and, if she survives, could leave the military forever in her debt…

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received…

‘Mercenaries, pirates, and her Aunt Gracie’s fruitacakes, a fun adventure full of thrills and touches of humor.’ — Locus on TRADING IN DANGER

‘Absorbing, fairly low-key complications and agreeable character development: an auspicious series opener.’ — Kirkus on TRADING IN DANGER

‘Moon’s reputation as one of the best female sci-fi writers will be enhanced by TRADING IN DANGER. Witty and well-intentioned yet a bit boneheaded, Ky is a heroine well-suited to the bumpy ride Moon takes her on. A mix of space opera, military science fiction and human drama, this is an exciting and often touching novel.’ — RT Book Reviews

‘A superior novel, and if there is any justice it will bring Elizabeth Moon the praise and popularity she deserves.’ — SciFi.com on TRADING IN DANGER

‘Excellent plotting and characters support the utterly realistic action sequences: swift, jolting, confusing, and merciless. It’s a corker!’ — Kirkus on MOVING TARGET

‘Kylara Vatta lets loose in this rip-roaring sequel. The charm lies in Moon’s deft characterizations, especially the exorcism of Ky’s guilt over her family’s deaths. There’s plenty of shipboard and dockside action, plus authentically grungy space-station settings. Former Marine Moon has a genuine hoorah series going for her.’ — Publishers Weekly on MOVING TARGET

‘This is a satisfying adventure with an engaging captain and crew.’ — Denver Post on MOVING TARGET

Moon’s most recent series is Vatta’s Peace, a follow-up series to Vatta’s War: COLD WELCOME and INTO THE FIRE, which are also published by Orbit Books in the UK.

Elizabeth Moon is also the award-winning author of SPEED OF DARK, which is also published in the UK by Orbit Books.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Elizabeth Moon’s VATTA’S WAR series UK re-issues on the way!

Posted on Tuesday, August 27th, 2019

The first two volumes in Elizabeth Moon‘s acclaimed, classic sci-fi series Vatta’s War are getting re-issued in the UK! Both are due to be published by Orbit Books on September 12th. Read on for more details of the two novels.

First up, TRADING IN DANGER…

Ky Vatta is a highly promising military cadet with a great future ahead of her, until an insignificant act of kindness makes her the focus of the Academy’s wrath. She is forced to resign, her dreams shattered.

For the child of a rich trading family, this should mean disgrace on a grand scale. And yet, to her surprise, Ky is offered the captaincy of a ship headed for scrap with its final cargo.

Her orders are absolutely clear, but Ky quickly sees potential profit in altering the journey. Because, whatever the risks, it’s in her blood to trade – even if the currency is extreme danger.

And here’s the synopsis for the second novel, MOVING TARGET…

Ky Vatta was a military cadet destined for great things, until an act of kindness incurred her Academy’s wrath and ended her career.

Instead of the expected disgrace, her rich trader family gave her captaincy of a small ship, to sell for scrap. In flagrant disregard of orders, she saw the opportunity to make a profit and save the ship.

Several upgrades later, Ky is determined to retain the ship and her independence in the cut-throat world of interplanetary trading. But a threat emerges that challenges even her sharp wits and, if she survives, could leave the military forever in her debt…

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received…

‘Moon’s reputation as one of the best female sci-fi writers will be enhanced by TRADING IN DANGER. Witty and well-intentioned yet a bit boneheaded, Ky is a heroine well-suited to the bumpy ride Moon takes her on. A mix of space opera, military science fiction and human drama, this is an exciting and often touching novel.’ — RT Book Reviews

‘Mercenaries, pirates, and her Aunt Gracie’s fruitacakes, a fun adventure full of thrills and touches of humor.’ — Locus on TRADING IN DANGER

‘Absorbing, fairly low-key complications and agreeable character development: an auspicious series opener.’ — Kirkus on TRADING IN DANGER

‘A superior novel, and if there is any justice it will bring Elizabeth Moon the praise and popularity she deserves.’ — SciFi.com on TRADING IN DANGER

‘Kylara Vatta lets loose in this rip-roaring sequel. The charm lies in Moon’s deft characterizations, especially the exorcism of Ky’s guilt over her family’s deaths. There’s plenty of shipboard and dockside action, plus authentically grungy space-station settings. Former Marine Moon has a genuine hoorah series going for her.’ — Publishers Weekly on MOVING TARGET

‘This is a satisfying adventure with an engaging captain and crew.’ — Denver Post on MOVING TARGET

‘Excellent plotting and characters support the utterly realistic action sequences: swift, jolting, confusing, and merciless. It’s a corker!’ — Kirkus on MOVING TARGET

Moon’s most recent series is Vatta’s Peace, a follow-up series to Vatta’s War: COLD WELCOME and INTO THE FIRE, which are also published by Orbit Books in the UK.

Elizabeth Moon is also the award-winning author of SPEED OF DARK, which is also published in the UK by Orbit Books.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Admiral Vatta heads INTO THE FIRE!

Posted on Tuesday, February 6th, 2018

Today, Elizabeth Moon‘s INTO THE FIRE is published by Orbit  in the UK! The second novel in Moon’s Vatta’s Peace series, here’s the synopsis…

When Admiral Kylara Vatta and a ship full of strangers were marooned on an inhospitable arctic island, they uncovered secrets that someone on Ky’s planet was ready to kill to keep hidden. Now, the existence of the mysterious arctic base has been revealed, but the organisation behind it still lurks in the shadows, doing all it can to silence her.

It is up to the intrepid Ky to force the perpetrators into the light, and uncover decades’ worth of secrets – some of which lie at the very heart of her family’s greatest tragedy.

INTO THE FIRE has also been selected by Kirkus, Amazon (US) and Barnes & Noble as a February 2018 best of SFF!

‘There’s always so much to admire in Moon’s work that… readers will be gratified.’ — Kirkus

‘Moon’s powerful female characters send the unmistakable message that whatever men try to do, these women can do much, much better.’ — Publishers Weekly

Orbit also publishes the first in the series, COLD WELCOME.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Elizabeth Moon’s Vatta heads INTO THE FIRE…

Posted on Monday, December 18th, 2017

Above you can see the striking UK cover for the second novel in Elizabeth Moon‘s latest sci-fi series, Vatta’s Peace. INTO THE FIRE is due to be published by Orbit Books, on February 6th, 2018. Here’s the synopsis…

When Admiral Kylara Vatta and a ship full of strangers were marooned on an inhospitable arctic island, they uncovered secrets that someone on Ky’s planet was ready to kill to keep hidden. Now, the existence of the mysterious arctic base has been revealed, but the organisation behind it still lurks in the shadows, doing all it can to silence her.

It is up to the intrepid Ky to force the perpetrators into the light, and uncover decades’ worth of secrets – some of which lie at the very heart of her family’s greatest tragedy.

Orbit has also published the first in the series, COLD WELCOME, as well as the preceding series Vatta’s War.

Here are a few of the reviews the first in the series has received so far…

‘Abounding with a new set of piratical baddies, ramped-up military slang, assorted betrayals, and echoes of Shackleton’s incredible cold-weather trek, this lengthy space opera alternates among Ky in the planet’s coldest regions and a spooky tunnel environment, Aunt Grace’s political and economic machinations in the planetary capital, and Rafe’s paramilitary derring-do, all typical though flamboyant elements of Moon’s sci-fi mystery-action saga.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘A tensely told story of survival against the odds, as Vatta battles against the natural elements, a quarry that wants her dead and a traitor in her midst. Nebula award-winning Moon excels at depicting an independent leader of men and women who is open to doubt and soul-searching.’ — Guardian

‘Once again, Moon’s great strength is her characters, particularly the soldiers and how they comport themselves when under great stress.’ — Kirkus

‘A rousing adventure of survival, betrayal, and some fascinating new discoveries.’ — Locus

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

 

Elizabeth Moon delivers COLD WELCOME to the UK…

Posted on Thursday, April 13th, 2017

Elizabeth Moon‘s highly-anticipated new novel, COLD WELCOME is out today in the UK! The first in the author’s new Vatta’s Peace series, it is published in the UK by Orbit Books, here’s the synopsis…

Admiral Ky Vatta should return to her childhood home a war hero, but on the way her shuttle is downed by sabotage.

Marooned in a hostile landscape it’ll take every bit of wit, skill and luck she can muster to lead her fellow survivors to safety, knowing that the mysterious enemies who destroyed the ship are on the hunt, and may have an agent in the group ready to finish the job at any moment. And was the sabotage an attempt on Ky’s own life, or someone else’s?

COLD WELCOME is set after Moon’s previous Vatta War series, which are also published in the UK by Orbit: TRADING IN DANGER, MOVING TARGET, ENGAGING THE ENEMY, COMMAND DECISION and VICTORY CONDITIONS.

Elizabeth Moon is also the author of, among many others, the Nebula Award-winning THE SPEED OF DARK, which is published in the UK by Orbit.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Elizabeth Moon’s Admiral Vatta returns to a COLD WELCOME!

Posted on Monday, January 23rd, 2017

This April, Elizabeth Moon returns to the universe of her Vatta’s War series! Due to be published in the UK by Orbit Books, COLD WELCOME is the first in a new series, Vatta’s Peace. We think you’ll agree that cover is pretty stunning?

Here’s the synopsis…

Admiral Ky Vatta should return to her childhood home a war hero, but on the way her shuttle is downed by sabotage.

Marooned in a hostile landscape it’ll take every bit of wit, skill and luck she can muster to lead her fellow survivors to safety, knowing that the mysterious enemies who destroyed the ship are on the hunt, and may have an agent in the group ready to finish the job at any moment. And was the sabotage an attempt on Ky’s own life, or someone else’s?

Orbit has published a considerable number of Moon’s novels, including the Vatta’s War series (pictured below), the science fiction Serrano series, and three of Moon’s fantasy series: the Deeds of Paksenarrion, the Paladin’s Legacy, and the Legacy of Gird.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Publication Day – Elizabeth Moon’s CROWN OF RENEWAL

Posted on Tuesday, May 27th, 2014

MoonE-PL5-CrownOfRenewalUK-BlogThe final novel in Elizabeth Moon‘s epic fantasy series, Paladin’s Legacy, is out today! CROWN OF RENEWAL is published in the UK by Orbit Books.

Here’s the synopsis…

Eight kingdoms in danger, an enemy that cannot die…

Count Jeddrin has received a grisly message. His son, Filis, is dead, brutally killed by Alured the Black – the first move in his plan to take the eight kingdoms.

But Filis managed to send his own message, telling of the dark forces that control Alured, warning of something more than human behind the man’s eyes…

Meanwhile, Dorrin Verrakai, last of a long line of magelords, must forever leave the home she loves in order to protect powerful magic relics created by her ancestors. For their power is desired both by Alured, and by the dark elves infesting the kingdoms. Searching for answers, her friend and King, Kieri, considers waking the magelords from their ancient slumber…

Some reviews for the Paladin’s Legacy so far…

‘This is a must-read for fans of Moon’s Paksenarrion stories from 20 years ago. There’s a brief synopsis of the tale to date, just enough to refresh the memory, but thanks to a skillful, subtle weaving of backstory, newcomers won’t be left out. Moon was a good storyteller 20 years ago. Now she is excellent, and this is a thoroughly entertaining read.’ — RT Book Reviews on OATH OF FEALTY

‘There’s action a-plenty, but this series most appeals to readers who enjoy their fantasy more thoughtful and intellectual.’ — Publishers Weekly on KINGS OF THE NORTH

 

‘… some rousing action and intriguing plot twists… Readers hungry for more dragons, elves, mages and gnomes will find exactly what they’re looking for.’ — Kirkus on ECHOES OF BETRAYAL

‘Moon’s fourth fantasy novel set in the Eight Kingdoms… is thoughtful and deeply character driven, full of personal crises as heartbreaking and hopeful as any dramatic invasion… There are plots within plots, but the complex story is never confusing. Fantasy fans will be delighted by this impressive foray.’ — Publishers Weekly on LIMITS OF POWER

The Paladin’s Legacy series is part of Moon’s larger Paksennarion fantasy world, and also includes: LIMITS OF POWER, KINGS OF THE NORTH, ECHOES OF BETRAYAL.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Cover Reveal: Elizabeth Moon’s SPEED OF DARK (New UK Edition)

Posted on Monday, May 26th, 2014

MoonE-SpeedOfDark2014-Blog

Orbit Books unveiled today a new UK cover for Elizabeth Moon‘s Nebula Award-winning SPEED OF DARK! Here is the synopsis…

Lou is different to ‘normal’ people. He interacts with the world in a way they do not understand. He might not see the things they see, however, but he also sees many things they do not. Lou is autistic.

One of his skills is an ability to find patterns in data: extraordinary, complex, beautiful patterns that not even the most powerful computers can comprehend. The company he works for has made considerable sums of money from Lou’s work. But now they want Lou to change – to become ‘normal’ like themselves. And he must face the greatest challenge of his life. To understand the speed of dark.

SPEED OF DARK was a recent selection for the Hodderscape Review Project, too. Those reviews haven’t been posted, yet, but here is a selection of what others have said…

‘a touching account of an autistic man who struggles to cure his condition without changing his self… Well-written, intelligent, quite moving. Moon places the reader inside the world of an autistic and unflinchingly conveys the authenticity of his situation.’ — Kirkus

‘A warm, engaging, human and humane book: what I like best about it is the glimpse into the life of a character so not like most of us… and yet very like us after all.’ — Robin McKinley

‘A surprisingly powerful novel… Lou is a fascinating character, unique, complex and very endearing…’ — Speculative Book Review

‘SPEED OF DARK is one of those exceptionally rare novels that has the power to alter one’s entire worldview, and reading it is a profoundly rewarding and enriching experience. It is impossible to avoid superlatives when speaking of it, even though one’s all too aware that one may be perceived as perpetrating hyperbole. Well … tough. I cannot remember when last I enjoyed a novel this much…’ — Infinity Plus

‘A book that makes you think. Lou is a wonderful, sympathetic, beautiful protagonist. This isn’t a plot-oriented, action-packed book, but it’s one I definitely recommend reading.’ — Jim C. Hines

And, finally, Elizabeth was recently interviewed by fellow Orbit author Rachel Bach, in which she talks about writing both science fiction and fantasy, and her experiences over the years.

Elizabeth is also the author of REMNANT POPULATION; the epic fantasy series Paksenarrion and Paladin’s Legacy; and the science fiction series Vatta’s War and Serrano.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Cover Reveal – Elizabeth Moon’s CROWN OF RENEWAL

Posted on Friday, February 28th, 2014

MoonE-PL5-CrownOfRenewalUK-Blog

Check out this cover for Elizabeth Moon‘s upcoming CROWN OF RENEWAL! It is the final installment in her Paladin’s Legacy series, a fantasy epic of kingdoms under threat, politics and magic by a true science fiction and fantasy legend! The book is due to be published in the UK by Orbit Books, on May 27 2014. Here is the synopsis…

Eight kingdoms in danger, an enemy that cannot die…

Count Jeddrin has received a grisly message. His son, Filis, is dead, brutally killed by Alured the Black – the first move in his plan to take the eight kingdoms.

But Filis managed to send his own message, telling of the dark forces that control Alured, warning of something more than human behind the man’s eyes…

Meanwhile, Dorrin Verrakai, last of a long line of magelords, must forever leave the home she loves in order to protect powerful magic relics created by her ancestors. For their power is desired both by Alured, and by the dark elves infesting the kingdoms. Searching for answers, her friend and King, Kieri, considers waking the magelords from their ancient slumber…

CROWN OF RENEWAL is the fifth and final novel in the series, which also includes: OATH OF FEALTY, KINGS OF THE NORTH, ECHOES OF BETRAYAL, and LIMITS OF POWER – all published in the UK by Orbit.

MoonE-PaladinsLegacy-1to4-Blog

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Classic Elizabeth Moon eBooks in the UK!

Posted on Wednesday, August 28th, 2013

MoonE-Legacy&Deed-Blog

This managed to slip through the net a couple months ago, but Orbit Books has (rather quietly) released Elizabeth Moon‘s Deed of Paksenarrion and Legacy of Gird series in eBook in the UK!

Deed of Paksenarrion: SHEEPFARMER’S DAUGHTER, DIVIDED ALLEGIANCE, OATH OF GOLD

Legacy of Gird: SURRENDER NONE, LIAR’S OATH

The Legacy of Gird series is also known as A Legacy of Honour in the UK. The novels have been released individually as eBooks, but are also available as printed omnibus editions (pictured above).

Zeno represents Elizabeth Moon in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Latest Elizabeth Moon News…

Posted on Friday, June 14th, 2013

MoonE-PL4-LimitsOfPower-BlogThis week saw publication of LIMITS OF POWER, the penultimate volume in Elizabeth Moon‘s Paladin’s Legacy, an epic fantasy series of elves, dragons and kingdoms under threat. The novel is published by Orbit in the UK. Here is the synopsis…

Magic will not be enough… The Lady of the elves has been slain and King Kieri injured by the iynisin, a corrupted race of elves whose poisonous touch means grisly death for all who stand in their way. As the Lady’s elves retreat to bury their dead, strange discoveries are made in the palace, revealing old secrets about the ancient alliance between humankind and elves. Meanwhile, in the kingdom of Tsaia, young Prince Camwyn begins to exhibit dangerous signs of magery. Discovery of magical blood so close to the king will put his brother’s rule in jeopardy, but he has nowhere to turn when even his own family might put him to death for treason.

Orbit have shared an excerpt of the novel on their website, so be sure to check that out if you are not yet (for shame!) familiar with the series. The novel has also received some excellent early reviews…

‘Moon’s fourth fantasy novel set in the Eight Kingdoms… is thoughtful and deeply character driven, full of personal crises as heartbreaking and hopeful as any dramatic invasion… Moon deftly avoids big literary explosions, preferring instead a slow boil that builds pressure without relief. There are plots within plots, but the complex story is never confusing. Fantasy fans will be delighted by this impressive foray.’  —  Publishers Weekly

‘… it’s easy to become fully immersed in, and absorbed by, the narrative: Her great strength lies in the patient accumulation of telling detail, yielding an extraordinarily rich picture of the world’s politics, philosophy, military structure, history, magic and alien cultures, where men and women stand as equals even in force of arms.’  —  Kirkus

LIMITS OF POWER was preceded by OATH OF FEALTY (2010), KINGS OF THE NORTH (2011), and ECHOES OF BETRAYAL (2012). The climactic final volume in the series, CROWN OF RENEWAL, is currently schedule for publication in May 2014.

Elizabeth Moon is represented by Zeno in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of Jabberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

MoonE-PaladinsLegacy-1to3-Blog

Zeno Deals Round-Up…

Posted on Monday, September 5th, 2011

It’s been a busy time here at Zeno Towers, what with the recent Worldcon in Reno, the upcoming Fantasycon and World Fantasy Convention, plus one or two personal bits and bobs that JP and I have been catching up on… life, I think some people call it!

That notwithstanding, we’ve been beavering away and are delighted to announce a few deals that we’ve recently concluded…

  • James P. Blaylock‘s first novel length Steampunk story in twenty years has sold to Titan in a world English deal negotiated by John Berlyne. THE AYLESFORD SKULL, which features further  gaslight adventures of Langdon St. Ives and his nemesis Ignatio Narbondo will be published by Titan late next year or early 2013. A limited edition is also planned. In addition to THE AYLESFORD SKULL, Titan will also be re-issueing two Blaylock steampunk classics, the 1988 Philip K Dick Award winning HOMUNCULUS and also LORD KELVIN’S MACHINE. Audio rights for all three novels went to Stacy Patton Anderson at Audible.
  • Titan have also acquired world English rights (excluding India) to TURBULENCE and an UNTITLED sequel by Samit Basu. Publication is set for Feb 2012.
  • Audible will release an audiobook edition of Ian R. MacLeod‘s WAKE UP AND DREAM along with two earlier MacLeod novels THE SUMMER ISLES and THE GREAT WHEEL.
  • Audible also picked up audio rights to the third novel in Michael Cobley‘s HUMANITY’S FIRE series, THE ASCENDANT STARS. German rights for this title went to Heyne via Thomas Schluck.
  • Sheila Gilbert at DAW Books has acquired World English rights to  Kari Sperring‘s THE GRASS KING’S CONCUBINE and an UNTITLED sequel in a nice  deal negotiated by John Parker.
  • German rights to Freda Warrington’s ELFLAND sold to Carl Ueberreuter Verlag GMBH via Paul & Peter Fritz AG.
  • French rights to the first three novels in Ben Aaronovitch‘s best selling RIVERS OF LONDON series went to J’ai lu via Lora Fountain. Orion have sold rights to the series in Poland, Hungary and Italy.
  • Also via Lora Fountain, French rights to Ian McDonald‘s PLANESRUNNER sold to Gallimard Jeunesse.
  • The Library of America will publish the Algis Budrys‘ classic SF work WHO? as part of a reissue series to be edited by Gary K. Wolfe.
  • UK / British Commonwealth rights to a new graphic novel series by Charlaine Harris and Christopher Golden entitled CEMETERY GIRL went to Jo Fletcher at Jo Fletcher Books. Jo has also acquired three anthologies edited by Charlaine Harris and Toni P. Kelner.
  • US rights to Iain Sinclair‘s GHOST MILK and AMERICAN SMOKE went to Mitzi Angel at Farrar, Strauss and Giroux.
  • UK /British  Commonwealth rights to two brand new titles in Elizabeth Moon‘s PALADIN’S LEGACY series sold to Orbit.

And there are plenty more things in the pipeline! More in due course.

Kings of the North Freebies…

Posted on Monday, March 7th, 2011

Elizabeth Moon‘s brand new new novel,  KINGS OF THE NORTH, the second volume in her new Paladin’s Legacy series is to be published by Orbit here in the UK later this month.

If you’re looking to send us a fantasy novel at some point, you could do worse than look to Elizabeth’s work as an fine example of what the market is looking for right now – and courtesy of Orbit – a publisher always on the look-out for commercial fantasy, here’s some free sample chapters from the novel to help you do just that.

Elizabeth has also just contributed a guest piece to the Orbit Blog entitled ‘A Few Favourite Fantasy Dragons‘ which is well worth a look. (Hint: Dragons are hot right now – no pun intended … well, okay, a bit intended!)

King Kieri’s realm has been destabilised by political wrangling and his court is blind to the dangers – until an assassination attempt on their king. And when this backfires, Kieri’s enemies start planning an invasion using dragonfire, a force unseen for hundreds of years. In King Mikeli’s adjoining kingdom, his crown is threatened by a bandit prince. Alured the Black claims his lineage gives him dominion over all the lands. His ambition is boundless, his methods are ruthless and he will not be swayed from his goal, whether or not it undermines a region already on the brink of war. Dark mages also watch for weakness and hunger for their own lost powers. The Kings of the North must plan wisely, as disaster is a sword’s breadth away.

Free Fiction by Zeno Authors…

Posted on Friday, February 5th, 2010

There’s some great bits of free online fiction by Zeno clients to be found out there. Check out the following…

  • Elizabeth Moon: A long excerpt from SHEEPFARMER’S DAUGHTER (the prologue and first two chapters, no less!) the first in the DEED OF PAKSENARRION series, is available at the Orbit web site, promoting their recently released omnibus edition (see this previous post).