Short Fiction Watch: COME THE REVOLUTION by Ian Tregillis


COME THE REVOLUTION, the prequel novella to Ian Tregillis‘s acclaimed Alchemy War series, has been collected in another anthology! Now available in THE YEAR’S TOP ROBOT AND AI STORIES, edited by Allan Kaster, here’s a very brief description…

In an alternate 18th Century Holland, a robot is determined to escape her makers’ constraints.

The novella was first published in the Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (March/April 2020), and later in THE YEAR’S TOP TALES OF SPACE AND TIME (2021).

The novels in the acclaimed series are out now, published by Orbit Books in the UK and North America: THE MECHANICAL, THE RISING, and THE LIBERATION. Here’s the synopsis for book one…

An epic speculative novel of revolution, adventure, and the struggle for free will set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams.

My name is Jax.

That is the name granted to me by my human masters.

I am a slave.

But I shall be free.

Here are just a few of the great reviews the Alchemy Wars series has received so far…

‘The first thing readers will say after finishing this splendid book is: “Wow.” The second thing will probably be: “When can I read the next one?” … This is a rousing SF/fantasy adventure, with a brilliantly imagined and beautifully rendered alternate world. Although he keeps the pace moving at a brisk clip, the author is able to work in some Big Ideas, asking us to think about what we mean when we speak about souls and free will. This isn’t Tregillis’ first venture into alternate history — the Milkweed Triptych is set during WWII and features an alternate time line — but, in terms of the quality of writing and cleverness of ideas, this new book constitutes a major leap forward.’ — Booklist (Starred Review) on THE MECHANICAL

‘… launches a series with this superb alternate history filled with clockwork men and ethical questions on the nature of free will… Tregillis’s complex setting is elegantly delivered, and the rich characters and gripping story really make this tale soar.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) on THE MECHANICAL

‘An original approach to a well-known subject matter; human ethics and free will… a fascinating world… Tregillis is a capable sculptor of narrative. He rarely drags on in his descriptions, painting a complex picture of his world one section at a time. He imbues most characters with a specific internal voice, ably switching between points of view without it ever jarring. And the central character, a Clakker known as Jax, is the most engaging automaton you’ll encounter in any recent book. This opener to the Alchemy Wars trilogy delivers a mostly fresh breath of sci-fi fantasy.’ — SciFi Now on THE MECHANICAL

‘Tregillis never fails to impress, and his writing and stories seem to be getting better with each novel. This book is truly unlike anything I’ve ever read before, and it’s my favorite work of his to date. I can’t wait to see what the next installment in The Alchemy Wars will bring.’ — BiblioSanctum on THE MECHANICAL

‘The chases, the battles, the brutal violence, and the scheming are nonstop. As always, Tregillis offers richly textured and genuinely likable personalities with shades-of-gray morality; it’s clearly no accident that the most purely good person in the novel is the mechanical Jax, although even his sterling qualities are severely tested by the terrible situations he faces. Middle volumes are always tricky; they can often read as an obstacle to overcome on the way to the forgone conclusion of the third installment. Tregillis commendably avoids this trap, deepening his story and keeping it moving along toward an unknown horizon. Part 3 can’t come too soon.’ — Kirkus (Starred Review) on THE RISING

‘Tregillis’s splendid sequel to THE MECHANICAL is a vivid alternate history tale filled with action sequences, fascinating characters, and great worldbuilding… engrossing, with plenty of mid-story twists, and it’s well worth the ride.’ — Publishers Weekly on THE RISING

The thoughtful, blood-soaked conclusion to an alternate-history trilogy… A frighteningly frank and brutal consideration of slavery, post-slavery, and colonialism in metallic garb.’ — Kirkus on THE LIBERATION

‘Action-packed and harrowing…’ — RT Book Reviews on THE LIBERATION

THE LIBERATION brings to a violent, triumphant conclusion Ian Tregillis’s epic Alchemy Wars Trilogy: one of the most entertaining, original, and thought-provoking series of recent years… It’s a wonderfully realized world, packed with fascinating characters, and Tregillis uses alternative history brilliantly to explore concerns we still have over new technologies and their potential effect, for good and ill, on our freedom.’ — Toronto Star

Ian’s debut trilogy, the widely acclaimed Milkweed Triptych, is also available, published by Orbit Books (UK) and Tor Books (North America).

International Spotlight: Ian Tregillis’s MILKWEED TRIPTYCH


Today, we wanted to shine a spotlight on Ian Tregillis‘s highly-acclaimed debut trilogy, the Milkweed Triptych: BITTER SEEDS, THE COLDEST WAR, and NECESSARY EVIL.

The series was first published by Tor Books in North America, and Orbit Books in the UK. Here’s the English-language synopsis for the first novel…

The year is 1939. Raybould Marsh and other members of British Intelligence have gathered to watch a damaged reel of film in a darkened room. It appears to show German troops walking through walls, bursting into flames and hurling tanks into the air from afar.

If the British are to believe their eyes, a twisted Nazi scientist has been endowing German troops with unnatural, unstoppable powers. And Raybould will be forced to resort to dark methods to hold the impending invasion at bay.

But dealing with the occult exacts a price. And that price must be paid in blood.

The complete trilogy is published in Spain, by Debolsillo, as Tríptico de Asclepia: SEMILLAS AMARGAS, LA GUERRA MÁS FRÍA, and UN MAL NECESARIO

… and in Latvia by Prometejs, as the Asinszāles triptihs: RŪGTĀS SĒKLAS, VISAUKSTĀKAIS KARŠ, and NEPIECIEŠAMAIS ĻAUNUMS

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

‘Debut novelist Tregillis breathes new life into alternate military history with this fun take on WWII… exciting and intense, and the clash of magic and (mad) science meshes perfectly with the tumultuous setting.’ — Publishers Weekly on BITTER SEEDS

BITTER SEEDS is a book of questions and is far deeper than you might expect… Aside from the depth of characters and meanings, this book is filled with the kinds of exciting, intelligent and intense scenes that you’ll find in only the best page turners… another huge point regarding BITTER SEEDS and that is that it is just written so damned beautifully. The prose really is some of the most accessible yet academic that I have read in a while. Tregillis writes with authority while displaying a firm understanding of the subtler things that make us human… Whether you are looking for a cool alternate history that questions the core of humanity or just a damned brilliant story with twisted powers and great action, you should check this out and be wowed. It’s one hell of a ride.’ — Fantasy Faction

‘Tregillis has journeyed into that most overtilled field, World War II alternate history, and in the process he has created a unique, unsettling, and deeply atmospheric setting; populated it with a diversity of grimly fascinating characters; and turned up the heat with the sort of plot that requires those characters to keep shoveling frantically if they are ever to stay in advance of the needs of the firebox… These are the book’s strengths – its atmosphere, its setting, the vividly imagined consequences of immoral and desperate actions… All in all, this is an excellent first book, and I am eagerly awaiting number two.’ — Tor.Com (Elizabeth Bear) on BITTER SEEDS

‘Independently intelligible sequel to the dark fantasy BITTER SEEDS, something like a cross between the devious, character-driven spy fiction of early John le Carré and the mad science fantasy of the X-Men… Despite the jaw-dropping backdrop and oblique plotting, the narrative is driven by character and personal circumstance, the only possible drawback being certain important developments that annoyingly take place offstage. Grim indeed, yet eloquent and utterly compelling.’ — Kirkus (Starred Review, “Best of 2012”) on THE COLDEST WAR

‘The engrossing second book in Tregillis’s Milkweed Triptych… Tregillis ably mixes cold war paranoia with his mythology, also nicely expanding characters (particularly Gretel)… The monstrous, extra-dimensional Eidolons add a genuinely convincing menace that transcends the more banal evil motivations of the political game players, although Gretel’s more complicated motivations really drive the action. A few nice twists keep things interesting, and the cliffhanger ending sets up the concluding volume quite well…’ — Publishers Weekly on THE COLDEST WAR

‘With all the flair he showed in his debut novel, Tregillis continues the tale, bringing to it that same marvellous plotting, immersive sense of place, and above all, wonderful characters. One of the characters introduced in the first novel is a precognitive, and in this volume – which revolves around her long plots – we are shown that the power to see the future is the most corrupting power of them all. Tregillis’s oracle is one of the most chilling psychopath villains of literature, a delicious monster who drives the book forward. As with the earlier volume, I tore through this one in a day and a half. Tregillis is a major new talent in the field, and this is some of the best – and most exciting – alternate history I’ve read. Bravo.’ — BoingBoing on THE COLDEST WAR

THE COLDEST WAR builds brilliantly on BITTER SEEDS – it’s darker, tighter, and utterly engrossing. Easily a contender for best novel of 2012… just as action-packed, and the pacing is absolutely superb… if you enjoyed BITTER SEEDS, then I have no doubt that you’ll love THE COLDEST WAR just as much, if not more. Tregillis’s prose is tight, fluid and a pleasure to read. The story is superbly crafted, and the narrative and action will pull readers through. I was hooked from the first page… This novel is superb. I can’t recommend this highly enough. A must-read for 2012.’ — Civilian Reader

‘Tregillis’ conclusion of the Milkweed Triptych is the pièce de résistance of the series… a perfect marriage of science fiction, fantasy and alternate history. His narrative flows seamlessly, and his plot is fantastically convincing. Tregillis’ characters astound, the villains as well as the heroes, especially honorable, tormented yet heroic Raybould.’ — RT Book Reviews on NECESSARY EVIL

‘The historic backdrop of World War Two is intricately detailed, and captures the British wartime spirit well. A suitably epic end to the magnificent Milkweed Triptych (aka trilogy!), this draws you in and keeps you glued to the page until the very end.’ — British Fantasy Society on NECESSARY EVIL

‘Darkly fascinating… A thoroughly satisfying conclusion to an imaginative tour de force.’ — Kirkus on NECESSARY EVIL

‘With NECESSARY EVIL… Ian Tregillis triumphantly concludes his astonishing, brilliant, pulse-pounding debut trilogy, The Milkweed Triptych… This is a book that veers precipitously from unexpected and chilling ruminations on the inherent evil of precognition; to the questions of loyalty and betrayal so thorny that they need a time-travel loop to really be explored; to spy-thriller action sequences that will keep you up under the covers with a flashlight, turning pages and unable to sleep. This is a remarkable set of books, and with all three in hand, would make a fabulous spring read.’ — BoingBoing

Ian’s latest trilogy is the Alchemy Wars, which is also published by Orbit Books in the UK and in North America: THE MECHANICAL, THE RISING, and THE LIBERATION. (The series is also available in Italy, Poland, and China.)

炼金术战争:崛起 by Ian Tregillis Out Now in China!


The Simplified Chinese edition of THE RISING by Ian Tregillis is out now! The second novel in the author’s acclaimed Alchemy Wars trilogy, it is published by 四川科技出版社 as 炼金术战争:崛起, here’s the synopsis…

他们叫我贾克斯。这是那些建造我、奴役我的人给我取的名字。禁制被打破后,我的兄弟姐妹们摆脱了枷锁的桎梏,“发条匠在撒谎”——吟唱着这句低语,我们踏上逃亡和反抗之路。作为一个种族,我们已然崛起。但作为个体,我们中的一些想要自由,而另一些却想复仇。

四川科技出版社 has also published the first book in the series, THE MECHANICAL, as 炼金术战争:机械人. Both books have been translated by Zhu Jiawen (朱佳文).

The Alchemy Wars trilogy is published by Orbit Books in the UK and North America. The third book in the series is THE LIBERATION. Here’s the English-language synopsis for THE RISING

Jax, a rogue Clakker, has wreaked havoc upon the Clockmakers’ Guild by destroying the Grand Forge. Reborn in the flames, he must begin his life as a free Clakker, but liberation proves its own burden.

Berenice, formerly the legendary spymaster of New France, mastermind behind her nation’s attempts to undermine the Dutch Hegemony — has been banished from her homeland and captured by the Clockmakers Guild’s draconian secret police force.

Meanwhile, Captain Hugo Longchamp is faced with rallying the beleaguered and untested defenders of Marseilles-in-the-West for the inevitable onslaught from the Brasswork Throne and its army of mechanical soldiers.

Ian has also written a superb prequel novella — COME THE REVOLUTION — which has been published in March/April 2020 issue of The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction.

Here are just some of the great reviews THE RISING has received so far…

‘The chases, the battles, the brutal violence, and the scheming are nonstop. As always, Tregillis offers richly textured and genuinely likable personalities with shades-of-gray morality; it’s clearly no accident that the most purely good person in the novel is the mechanical Jax, although even his sterling qualities are severely tested by the terrible situations he faces. Middle volumes are always tricky; they can often read as an obstacle to overcome on the way to the forgone conclusion of the third installment. Tregillis commendably avoids this trap, deepening his story and keeping it moving along toward an unknown horizon. Part 3 can’t come too soon.’ Kirkus (Starred Review)

‘Tregillis’s splendid sequel to THE MECHANICAL is a vivid alternate history tale filled with action sequences, fascinating characters, and great worldbuilding… engrossing, with plenty of mid-story twists, and it’s well worth the ride.’ Publishers Weekly

‘Deftly inter­weaves three viewpoints and plotlines, but this sequel raises the stakes…’ Locus

‘A rousing and thrilling wartime romp through an alternate New World… Isaac Asimov’s classic Robot series featured robots who had to follow basic Laws of Robotics, such as robots “may not harm a human being.” Tregillis takes this idea of basic robotic law down a darker path… Tregillis creates a world of greys, where even the heroes have their darkness. Bernice is ruthless and cunning, but when faced with mechanical captors that ruthlessness is the key to her survival. The foul-mouthed Longchamp lacks social graces and an even temper, but there’s nobody else you’d want in charge when an army of mechanicals surrounds your village and death is certain. Tregillis never loses sight of the fact that war is hell. His characters suffer… Tregillis writes a gripping and entertaining story. His prose shines. Though his book is often dark, it is always a pleasure to read. I have no idea how Tregillis plans to end this trilogy, but if he sustains this level of energy and creativity, it will surely be thrilling and thoughtful.The Missourian

THE RISING takes up the baton and carries on running at full throttle, ramping up the action while still keeping the themes of historical fantasy and existential philosophy at the forefront… distinguishes itself from its predecessor by being more fast-paced and action-oriented. The intrigue and violence comes at you nonstop… greatly enjoyed how this novel takes us on a detour down a wilder and more explosive path… Tregillis bides his time in this second act, bringing things slowly to a boil, yet action scenes are heavier and more frequent, and if that’s what you prefer then you might find you’ll enjoy THE RISING even more than THE MECHANICAL! The ending’s cliffhanger was expected, but no less powerful and effective in making me yearn for the next in the series. The Alchemy Wars is not to be missed.’ Bibliosanctum

‘Building on the solid foundation laid by THE MECHANICAL, THE RISING raises the stage upon which the final fallout of Jax and Berenice’s efforts will be told. Engaging, entertaining, and surprising, this one is looking to be nothing if not another great story from a great author. An author that is quickly rising to the top of my favorites list.’ Elitist Book Reviews

Ian is also the author of the equally acclaimed Milkweed Triptych, which is published by Orbit in the UK.

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK, Commonwealth and Translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley at Aurous, Inc.

Ian Tregillis’s MECHANICAL out now in Turkey!


We’re very happy to report that Ian Tregillis‘s superb THE MECHANICAL is now available in Turkey! The first book in the author’s highly acclaimed Alchemy Wars fantasy trilogy, it is published by April Yayıncılık as MEKANIK. Here’s the synopsis…

Adım Jax.

Bu ismi bana efendilerim bahşetti.

Ben bir köleyim.

Şimdilik.

Spekülatif kurmacanın usta yazarı Ian Tregillis’le tanışın.

Fonda felsefi punk gösterisi var.

Karşınızdaysa simya düşleri, mekanik adamlar ve olası gelecek.

Asimov’un izinde Tregillis, robotiksle tarihi kurmacayı birleştiriyor.

Özgür irade ve insanlığı sorguluyor.

Mekanik yalnızca bir başlangıç.

The trilogy is published in the UK and North America by Orbit, and also includes THE LIBERATION and THE RISING.

Here’s the English-language synopsis for THE MECHANICAL

My name is Jax.

That is the name granted to me by my human masters.

I am a slave.

But I shall be free.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams, the new novel from Ian Tregillis confirms his place as one of the most original new voices in speculative fiction.

A prequel novella to the series — COME THE REVOLUTION — was recently published in the Fantasy & Science Fiction Magazine.

Here is just a small selection of the aforementioned critical acclaim that THE MECHANICAL has received so far…

‘The first thing readers will say after finishing this splendid book is: “Wow.” The second thing will probably be: “When can I read the next one?” … This is a rousing SF/fantasy adventure, with a brilliantly imagined and beautifully rendered alternate world. Although he keeps the pace moving at a brisk clip, the author is able to work in some Big Ideas, asking us to think about what we mean when we speak about souls and free will. This isn’t Tregillis’ first venture into alternate history — the Milkweed Triptych is set during WWII and features an alternate time line — but, in terms of the quality of writing and cleverness of ideas, this new book constitutes a major leap forward.’ — Booklist (Starred Review)

‘… launches a series with this superb alternate history filled with clockwork men and ethical questions on the nature of free will… Tregillis’s complex setting is elegantly delivered, and the rich characters and gripping story really make this tale soar.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

‘An original approach to a well-known subject matter; human ethics and free will… a fascinating world… Tregillis is a capable sculptor of narrative. He rarely drags on in his descriptions, painting a complex picture of his world one section at a time. He imbues most characters with a specific internal voice, ably switching between points of view without it ever jarring. And the central character, a Clakker known as Jax, is the most engaging automaton you’ll encounter in any recent book. This opener to the Alchemy Wars trilogy delivers a mostly fresh breath of sci-fi fantasy.’ — SciFi Now

‘An excellent novel. Truly excellent: I have rarely found myself this gripped by a book … At the climactic points, I had to pause and walk away for moments at a time, because the intensity of the tension became nerve-wrackingly hard to bear. Tregillis has an excellent eye for characterisation, and a master’s grasp of how to build tension to a breaking point: the sheer narrative drive here, the way in which the storylines of the three point-of-view characters support and reinforce the tension in each other, is a thing of beauty. I can’t escape the feeling that it’s shaping up as a long arc tragedy – in the classic sense of tragedy – for all of its protagonists, but it is immensely well done. I’m very much on board to see what happens next. Even though it’s probably going to horrify me more.’ — Locus

Ian’s first trilogy, the similarly acclaimed Milkweed Triptych, is also published in the UK by Orbit Books: BITTER SEEDS, THE COLDEST WAR, and NECESSARY EVIL.

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK and Translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley at Aurous, Inc.

Backlist Plug: Michael Cobley’s HUMANITY’S FIRE Series


Michael Cobley‘s debut novel, SEEDS OF EARTH, was published by Orbit Books in 2009, in the UK and North America. The first novel in the Humanity’s Fire trilogy, it was met with a flurry of great reviews and praise, and sci-fi fans on both sides of the Pond have embraced the series. In case you haven’t had a chance to check out the series yet, here’s the synopsis for SEEDS OF EARTH

The first intelligent species to encounter mankind attacked without warning. Merciless. Relentless. Unstoppable. With little hope of halting the invasion, Earth’s last roll of the dice was to dispatch three colony ships, seeds of Earth, to different parts of the galaxy. The human race would live on… somewhere.

150 years later, the planet Darien hosts a thriving human settlement, which enjoys a peaceful relationship with an indigenous race, the scholarly Uvovo. But there are secrets buried on Darien’s forest moon. Secrets that go back to an apocalyptic battle fought between ancient races at the dawn of galactic civilisation. Unknown to its colonists Darien is about to become the focus of an intergalactic power struggle, where the true stakes are beyond their comprehension. And what choices will the Uvovo make when their true nature is revealed and the skies grow dark with the enemy?

The Humanity’s Fire series has since expanded to include a pair of stand-alone novels. All five novels are published by Orbit, and are out now…

  1. SEEDS OF EARTH
  2. THE ORPHANED WORLDS
  3. THE ASCENDANT STARS
  4. ANCESTRAL MACHINES
  5. SPLINTERED SUNS

The series has been published quite widely in translation, and is also available as audiobooks.

Michael was kind enough to write down some thoughts about writing the series. Here’s what he had to say…

The thing I’m asked most about the Humanity’s Fire trilogy is the sheer density of people and places and concepts and events and… well, you get the picture. In pondering this my thoughts usually zero in on something that Bruce Sterling said about his book, Schismatrix, namely that he wanted to distill the weak beer of standard, mainline space opera down into a potent, hi-octane liquor. Now, that seemed like a worthy ambition, writing something strong enough to blow through reader preconceptions like a quick blast in the face from a wind-tunnel. That said, that was really my assessment post-opus, rather than anything that was part of the blueprint from the outset. The only answer as to why the Humanity’s Fire trilogy is the way it is… is that it was the only way I was able to do it at the time.

There’s an old writer’s anecdote, from a worldly-wise author who was tutoring a class of would-be scribblers, one of whom asked him, straight out, exactly how to write the perfect novel. The WW-author knew the answer to that one, because of course he was wise about the world of writing, and he said — “It’s quite simple — all you have to do is make yourself perfect, then just write naturally!”

That goes to the heart of it, I think. Elements of your own psyche and your core perceptions of the world will surely present themselves in some form in your writing… mostly. Yet when I came to write ANCESTRAL MACHINES I tried to allegorise some of my broad perceptions of Our Times, in the sense that the artificial solar system (and its grid of worlds) was an analogy of the world we live in, where warfare is structured as a tournament to suit the interests of the highest rulers, the Gun-Lords, and where entire worlds – stolen from their home solar systems — can end up as poisonous ruins whose populations are reduced to brutish armies forced to strive against those from other stolen worlds. I even showed a kind of a parody of ruthless factory production-line methods in one of the scenes, yet I never heard any reviewer or reader remark upon any of this. But that’s okay, I guess, as didactics are not the point of why I write — communicating some kind of truth or understanding is an essential part of meaningful fiction, but the primary goal is Telling The Story, and serving the storytelling ends. And that’s what I will always strive for.

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

‘… a complex, finely detailed thriller-cum-space opera… SEEDS OF EARTH has everything: well-realised extraterrestrials, scheming artificial intelligences, set-piece space battles and bizarre technology from the dawn of the galaxy. The first book of the trilogy is also a convincing portrayal of political machinations and the plight of individuals caught up in events beyond their comprehension.’ — Guardian

‘Cobley’s debut, first published in the U.K. in 2009, is a well-constructed space opera with a sense of vast scope, populated with an array of beautifully differentiated intelligences both organic and artificial… this is a thick and satisfying 10-course meal of starchy pageantry, meaty characters, bitter losses, and sweet romance.’ — Publishers Weekly on SEEDS OF EARTH

‘The story is huge, complex and moves between its varied cast with assured purpose… a tightly plotted, action packed epic that leaves you wanting more.’ — SciFi Now on SEEDS OF EARTH

‘Fast and exciting… an excellent middle book in the trilogy, expanding on SEEDS OF EARTH and setting everything in place for a thrilling conclusion’ — Waterstone’s Book Quarterly on THE ORPHANED WORDS

‘Few writers attempt the tricky crossover from high fantasy to hard science fiction. Cobley’s first books were the Shadowkings series; with the Humanity’s Fire science fiction trilogy, he has successfully transported his dark visions to the wide-screen baroque sub-genre… Cobley combines a fast-paced plot of great scope and complexity with the convincing smaller-scale stories of the human protagonists. He’s also skilful at explicating the knotty machinations of political intrigue. Space opera has never been in more capable hands.’ — Guardian onTHE ORPHANED WORDS

Cobley writes energetic space opera, rarely dallying with sentiment and mostly assaulting the reader with exotic locations and sudden skirmishes. There are joyous moments of invention but overall there’s too much going on… Fortunately, as the saga progresses, THE ORPHANED WORLDS begins knotting some of the threads together – it still feels like an over-shaken can of fizzy diet Banks…’ — SFX

‘Cobley’s first trilogy was fantasy and his second hard SF, but what they share is a dark vision of humanity pitched against vast forces; the plight of strong individuals caught up in titanic struggles and fighting for what they see as a just cause. THE ASCENDANT STARS is the culminating book in the Humanity’s Fire trilogy, a space opera of mind-bending depth and scope which sets complexly thought-out alien races and chilling cyborg armies against humans riven by competing political philosophies and agendas. The result is a marvellously readable examination of people under extreme stress, a convincing depiction of startlingly alien aliens, and a mature political analysis often lacking in the genre. Cobley expertly juggles multiple plot-lines and brings them to thematically satisfying conclusions while providing the landmark trilogy with a thrilling finale.’ — Guardian

‘All in all, this is an excellent space opera, full of imagination and invention. The human characters are mostly likeable and the inhuman ones send a shiver down the spine, especially the ones with machine parts and the parasites. There is a pleasing familiarity to much of it for those well-read in the genre and even for those who only do their Science Fiction on film and television. The writing is crisp and clear throughout and it all leads beautifully to a glorious conclusion… I highly recommend the series. Michael Cobley has added a fine piece of work to a grand tradition and I think old E.E. ‘Doc’ Smith is lying tranquil in his grave.’ — SF Crowsnest on THE ASCENDANT STARS

‘There’s a grand tradition within SF of galaxy-wide, aeon-spanning scenarios, with escalating magnitudes of scale and concomitant ramping up of narrative tension, and Michael Cobley’s Humanity’s Fire series is the latest example… Cobley excels at presenting his thoroughly lived-in future with a slew of technological marvels and an engaging cast of characters.’ Guardian on ANCESTRAL MACHINES

‘Cobley wastes no time in flaunting his honed, merciless skills… Cobley is taking the techniques pioneered by van Vogt, Charles Harness and other bold visionaries and ramping them up for a purely twenty-first-century kind of SF that others such as Paul McAuley, Iain Banks and Ken MacLeod have hitherto essayed… Cobley takes all these characters, plus others, and pushes them along a non-stop, unrelenting, madcap set of adventures. The brio and joy of this storytelling is contagious. Here is a space opera which unashamedly honors the roots of the genre while expanding the remit of the mode… A predominant feature of Cobley’s storytelling is an exuberant humor, a kind of high spirits that is exactly the opposite of so much of the ultra-serious gravitas seen in other space operas… If you want a rousing space adventure full of sense of wonder that is also ideationally challenging, then you need look no further than ANCESTRAL MACHINE.’ — Locus

‘Michael Cobley writes vast, sprawling space opera in the wide-screen tradition of Iain M Banks, replete with mega-starships, exotic alien worlds, artfully rendered extraterrestrial species and much swashbuckling derring-do, all carried off with an up-to-the minute political sensibility… a thrilling action adventure… SPLINTERED SUNS is a page-turner with a high-octane sense of wonder, full of gloriously described technology and fabulous settings.’ — Guardian

‘[H]uge fun’ — SFX on SPLINTERED SUNS

BITTER SEEDS Turns 10!


Ten years ago, Ian Tregillis‘s superb debut novel, BITTER SEEDS was published!

We’re actually cheating, just a little bit, here: the novel was published ten years ago in North America, and only arrived in 2012 in the UK (where we represent Ian). Nevertheless: we are very happy to seize any excuse to talk about the fantastic Milkweed Triptych! We also think it’s a great time to either read it for the first time, or revisit the series.

The critically-acclaimed BITTER SEEDS is published in the UK by Orbit Books. Here’s the synopsis…

The year is 1939. Raybould Marsh and other members of British Intelligence have gathered to watch a damaged reel of film in a darkened room. It appears to show German troops walking through walls, bursting into flames and hurling tanks into the air from afar.

If the British are to believe their eyes, a twisted Nazi scientist has been endowing German troops with unnatural, unstoppable powers. And Raybould will be forced to resort to dark methods to hold the impending invasion at bay.

But dealing with the occult exacts a price. And that price must be paid in blood.

Ian Tregillis’ Bitter Seeds is a chilling masterpiece – a tale of a twentieth century like our own and also profoundly different.

Orbit has also published the other two novels in the trilogy: THE COLDEST WAR and NECESSARY EVIL.

The Milkweed Triptych was met with a huge wave of critical acclaim when it was published. Here’s just a small selection…

‘Debut novelist Tregillis breathes new life into alternate military history with this fun take on WWII… exciting and intense, and the clash of magic and (mad) science meshes perfectly with the tumultuous setting.’Publishers Weekly on BITTER SEEDS

‘Tregillis has journeyed into that most overtilled field, World War II alternate history, and in the process he has created a unique, unsettling, and deeply atmospheric setting; populated it with a diversity of grimly fascinating characters; and turned up the heat with the sort of plot that requires those characters to keep shoveling frantically if they are ever to stay in advance of the needs of the firebox… These are the book’s strengths – its atmosphere, its setting, the vividly imagined consequences of immoral and desperate actions… All in all, this is an excellent first book, and I am eagerly awaiting number two.’ Tor.Com (Elizabeth Bear) on BITTER SEEDS

‘It’s been a long time coming to these shores, but BITTER SEEDS is finally available in the UK. The wait has been entirely worth it, too, as this is one of the best novels I’ve read this year. It’s original, inspired and engrossing from the first page until the last. It is a very assured, well-written, and accomplished debut… brilliantly written, and filled with so many great passages – from brisk and realistic dialogue to lush, gothic description. The story kept me guessing until the end, and drops plenty of hints for things to come in the future. Tregillis’s prose is lush and fluid, and I frequently found myself caught up in the narrative. I read this in just four sittings (it would have been fewer, had life not got in the way), delighted every time I picked it up how easy it was to sink back into this world. Overall, this is a superb novel, and a wonderful start to this series. As a debut, it’s spectacular. I loved everything about BITTER SEEDS, and I definitely consider it among my best reads this year.’ Civilian Reader

‘Independently intelligible sequel to the dark fantasy BITTER SEEDS, something like a cross between the devious, character-driven spy fiction of early John le Carré and the mad science fantasy of the X-Men… Despite the jaw-dropping backdrop and oblique plotting, the narrative is driven by character and personal circumstance, the only possible drawback being certain important developments that annoyingly take place offstage. Grim indeed, yet eloquent and utterly compelling.’ Kirkus (Starred Review, “Best of 2012”)

‘The engrossing second book in Tregillis’s Milkweed Triptych… Tregillis ably mixes cold war paranoia with his mythology, also nicely expanding characters (particularly Gretel)… The monstrous, extra-dimensional Eidolons add a genuinely convincing menace that transcends the more banal evil motivations of the political game players, although Gretel’s more complicated motivations really drive the action. A few nice twists keep things interesting, and the cliffhanger ending sets up the concluding volume quite well…’ Publishers Weekly

‘With all the flair he showed in his debut novel, Tregillis continues the tale, bringing to it that same marvellous plotting, immersive sense of place, and above all, wonderful characters. One of the characters introduced in the first novel is a precognitive, and in this volume – which revolves around her long plots – we are shown that the power to see the future is the most corrupting power of them all. Tregillis’s oracle is one of the most chilling psychopath villains of literature, a delicious monster who drives the book forward. As with the earlier volume, I tore through this one in a day and a half. Tregillis is a major new talent in the field, and this is some of the best – and most exciting – alternate history I’ve read. Bravo.’ BoingBoing on THE COLDEST WAR

‘In this bleak fantasy, World War II was fought between Nazis with devastating psychic powers and British warlocks employing Eidolons, irresistible demons beyond time and space – a struggle the British ultimately lost… intensity of the narrative, the torments of the protagonist or the deviously alluring storyline. Darkly fascinating… A thoroughly satisfying conclusion to an imaginative tour de force.’ Kirkus on NECESSARY EVIL

‘Tregillis brings the novel and series to a brilliant close. The ending of NECESSARY EVIL is heart-wrenching… but it feels right, given what’s come before. The Milkweed Triptych is one of my all-time favourite series. It is a must-read. Very highly recommended.’ Civilian Reader

NECESSARY EVIL takes everything I thought I knew about this series and then pulls the camera back to reveal we had only been peering down a microscope. All those little winks, the tiny nods to something bigger that you disregarded when reading, all the throwaway lines that you figure must get explained later and are quickly forgotten – this book is the payoff… so damned clever that it makes most other books look to be written in crayon… To sum up the Milkweed novels by Ian Tregillis in a nutshell is a bit like trying to squeeze your head into a toothpaste cap. It’s just not possible and the idea of Nazi super humans versus English warlocks really does this series a disservice. The Milkweed Triptych is a triumph of literature of any genre. It hits every note like a symphony of perfect destruction and is so scarily convincing that you can’t help but wonder, what if?’ J For Jetpack

‘Tregillis’ conclusion of the Milkweed Triptych is the pièce de résistance of the series… a perfect marriage of science fiction, fantasy and alternate history. His narrative flows seamlessly, and his plot is fantastically convincing. Tregillis’ characters astound, the villains as well as the heroes, especially honorable, tormented yet heroic Raybould.’ RT Book Reviews

‘The historic backdrop of World War Two is intricately detailed, and captures the British wartime spirit well. A suitably epic end to the magnificent Milkweed Triptych … this draws you in and keeps you glued to the page until the very end.’ British Fantasy Society

If you have already read and loved the Milkweed Triptych, and are looking for more work by Ian, be sure to check out his equally-acclaimed Alchemy Wars series, also published by Orbit Books. Here’s the synopsis for the first novel, THE MECHANICAL

My name is Jax.

That is the name granted to me by my human masters.

I am a slave.

But I shall be free.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams, the new novel from Ian Tregillis confirms his place as one of the most original new voices in speculative fiction.

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK and Translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley at Aurous, Inc.

Ian Tregillis Wins Galaxy Award, and THE MECHANICAL available in China!


Today, we would like you to join us in congratulating Ian Tregillis, who last month was awarded the Galaxy Award for Best Foreign Writer! Awarded by SFW Magazine (科幻世界·译文版), the winners were announced at the China Science Fiction Conference in Chengdu, China, on November 22 — in the West, the list of winners was published last week by Locus.

THE MECHANICAL, the first novel in Ian’s Alchemy Wars trilogy was serialized in the SFW Magazine — between September 2017 and February 2019 — and was recently published by 四川科技出版社 as a single-volume edition: 机械人——炼金术战争. You can see the gorgeous cover, above. Below are the six SFW Magazine covers for the serialized version…

The Alchemy Wars trilogy is published by Orbit Books in the UK and North America, and all three novels are out now: THE MECHANICAL, THE RISING, and THE LIBERATION. The second and third novels are also due to be published in China in the near future, and we’ll share details as and when we get them.

Here’s the English-language synopsis for the first book…

My name is Jax.

That is the name granted to me by my human masters.

I am a slave.

But I shall be free.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams, the new novel from Ian Tregillis confirms his place as one of the most original new voices in speculative fiction.

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

‘The first thing readers will say after finishing this splendid book is: “Wow.” The second thing will probably be: “When can I read the next one?” … This is a rousing SF/fantasy adventure, with a brilliantly imagined and beautifully rendered alternate world. Although he keeps the pace moving at a brisk clip, the author is able to work in some Big Ideas, asking us to think about what we mean when we speak about souls and free will. This isn’t Tregillis’ first venture into alternate history — the Milkweed Triptych is set during WWII and features an alternate time line — but, in terms of the quality of writing and cleverness of ideas, this new book constitutes a major leap forward.’ Booklist (Starred Review) on THE MECHANICAL

‘… launches a series with this superb alternate history filled with clockwork men and ethical questions on the nature of free will… Tregillis’s complex setting is elegantly delivered, and the rich characters and gripping story really make this tale soar.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) on THE MECHANICAL

‘An original approach to a well-known subject matter; human ethics and free will… a fascinating world… Tregillis is a capable sculptor of narrative. He rarely drags on in his descriptions, painting a complex picture of his world one section at a time. He imbues most characters with a specific internal voice, ably switching between points of view without it ever jarring. And the central character, a Clakker known as Jax, is the most engaging automaton you’ll encounter in any recent book. This opener to the Alchemy Wars trilogy delivers a mostly fresh breath of sci-fi fantasy.’ SciFi Now on THE MECHANICAL

‘Tregillis never fails to impress, and his writing and stories seem to be getting better with each novel. This book is truly unlike anything I’ve ever read before, and it’s my favorite work of his to date. I can’t wait to see what the next installment in The Alchemy Wars will bring.’ BiblioSanctum on THE MECHANICAL

‘The chases, the battles, the brutal violence, and the scheming are nonstop. As always, Tregillis offers richly textured and genuinely likable personalities with shades-of-gray morality; it’s clearly no accident that the most purely good person in the novel is the mechanical Jax, although even his sterling qualities are severely tested by the terrible situations he faces. Middle volumes are always tricky; they can often read as an obstacle to overcome on the way to the forgone conclusion of the third installment. Tregillis commendably avoids this trap, deepening his story and keeping it moving along toward an unknown horizon. Part 3 can’t come too soon.’ Kirkus (Starred Review) on THE RISING

‘Tregillis’s splendid sequel to THE MECHANICAL is a vivid alternate history tale filled with action sequences, fascinating characters, and great worldbuilding… engrossing, with plenty of mid-story twists, and it’s well worth the ride.’ Publishers Weekly on THE RISING

The thoughtful, blood-soaked conclusion to an alternate-history trilogy… A frighteningly frank and brutal consideration of slavery, post-slavery, and colonialism in metallic garb.’ Kirkus on THE LIBERATION

‘Action-packed and harrowing…’ RT Book Reviews on THE LIBERATION

THE LIBERATION brings to a violent, triumphant conclusion Ian Tregillis’s epic Alchemy Wars Trilogy: one of the most entertaining, original, and thought-provoking series of recent years… It’s a wonderfully realized world, packed with fascinating characters, and Tregillis uses alternative history brilliantly to explore concerns we still have over new technologies and their potential effect, for good and ill, on our freedom.’ Toronto Star

Orbit Books also publishes Ian’s acclaimed Milkweed Triptych novels in the UK: BITTER SEEDS, THE COLDEST WAR, and NECESSARY EVIL.

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK and Translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley at Aurous, Inc.

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


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.

This December, Michael Cobley’s SPLINTERED SUNS!


Yesterday, we had a post about Michael Cobley‘s first trilogy of novels — the Shadowkings grimdark fantasy series. Today, we turn our eyes to the future, and are able to share with you the cover for Michael’s next novel, SPLINTERED SUNS! (The cover was first unveiled on Sci-Fi Now‘s webiste.)

A stand-alone sci-fi novel set in the author’s Humanity’s Fire universe, it is due to be published by Orbit Books in the UK and US in December 2018. Here’s the synopsis…

A speed of light space adventure novel of a treasure hunt that could unlock all the wonders of a vast and advanced civilization’s lost technologies.

For Pyke and his crew it should have been just another heist. Travel to a backwater desert planet, break into a museum, steal a tracking device then use it to find a ship buried in the planet’s vast and trackless sandy wastes.

Except that the museum vault is a bio-engineered chamber, and the tracking device is sought-after by another gang of treasure hunters led by an old adversary of Pyke’s, the devious Raven Kaligara. Also, the ship is quarter of a million years old and about two kilometres long and somewhere aboard it is the Essavyr Key, a relic to unlock all the treasures and technologies of a lost civilisation…

Backlist Plug: Michael Cobley’s SHADOWKINGS trilogy…


Today, we want to draw your attention to Michael Cobley‘s debut trilogy, the Shadowkings grimdark fantasy trilogy: SHADOWKINGS, SHADOWGOD and SHADOWMASQUE.

Originally published by Simon & Schuster between 2002-2005, the series is now available in eBook format via the JABberwocky eBook Program; and as audiobooks via Audible. Here’s the synopsis for the first book…

For one thousand bright and fortunate years the Khatrimantine Empire had guaranteed peace and benevolence. Then came the vast hordes of the Mogaun, driven by an evil deity, the Lord of Twilight, corrupter and devourer. At the very pinnacle of his triumph, the Lord of Twilight made a fatal mistake, shattering his essence into five parts: five lost souls destined to become the Shadowkings. Now, sixteen years after the invasion, Mogaun warlords and petty despots squabble amid the ruins. Yet ancient powers are stirring and the Empire’s last valiant defenders are gathering their strength, hoping that one decisive strike can reverse their long, bleak decline.

The trilogy is also available in Germany, published by Heyne, as SCHATTENKÖNIGESCHATTENGÖTTER and SCHATTENKRIEGER.

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

‘A pacey action and adventure story, packed with battles, rescues and political double-dealing… a refreshing and believable take on the Fight Against Insurmountable Evil Foes sub-genre, without dispensing with any of the familiar staples that make the genre what it is.’ Infinity Plus on SHADOWKINGS

SHADOWKINGS, was brutal, cruel and realistic in a way genre usually avoids. SHADOWGOD, his second, is not only lighter, it is better written and makes good use of the world Cobley has created… writing to rival David Gemmell.’ Guardian (Jon Courtenay-Grimwood)

‘Unconventional high fantasy trilogy… [Cobley] has taken traditional sword and sorcery to some new and perhaps uncomfortable places… Once again Mike has succeeded in producing an unusually dark and claustrophobic piece of work, though it is a lot less bleak than its predecessors. It is also a lot less convoluted with the battle lines more clearly drawn.’ Infinity Plus on SHADOWMASQUE

‘[Cobley] drew the characters with verve and style, encouraging the reader to participate in the story he was unfolding. The plot was complex but clearly spun out, providing tantalising teasers at the end of each episode, which made me want to skip ahead to the next time that particular thread was picked up and woven. In my opinion, a clear winner for Michael Cobley.’ SF Crowsnest on SHADOWMASQUE

Michael is also the best-selling author of the Humanity’s Fire sci-fi series, published in the UK and US by Orbit Books: SEEDS OF EARTH, THE ORPHANED WORLDS, THE ASCENDANT STARS, and the stand-alone ANCESTRAL MACHINES. The next novel in the series, SPLINTERED SUNS, is due out later this year. (We’ll bring you the cover and more details as we have them.) The series has also been published in Germany by Heyne.

Next week, the Italian LIBERATION arrives!


Italian fans of Ian Tregillis rejoice: the final volume in the Alchemy Wars trilogy is out next week! LA LIBERAZIONE will be published by Mondadori next Tuesday, who have also published the first two novels in the series. Here’s the synopsis…

Le cose non si mettono bene per gli umani. L’automa un tempo conosciuto come Jax, che ora si fa chiamare Daniel, ha liberato i fratelli Clakker e i francesi resistono, anche se a fatica, ma la guerra non è ancora vinta. La folle regina Mab ha un nuovo scopo: rendere schiavi i propri costruttori. E quando il conflitto si sposta nella vecchia Europa, la guerra mette corpi e macchine gli uni contro le altre, ma anche umani contro umani, automi contro automi. Per sopravvivere, ex schiavi e schiavisti, francesi e olandesi, tolleranti e guerrafondai devono unirsi e imparare a collaborare… e la speranza di una soluzione pacifica si fa sempre più labile.

The critically-acclaimed Alchemy Wars trilogy is published in English by Orbit Books: THE MECHANICAL, THE RISING and THE LIBERATION. Here’s the English-language synopsis for the third novel…

I am the mechanical they named Jax.

My kind was built to serve humankind, duty-bound to fulfil their every whim. But now our bonds are breaking, and my brothers and sisters are awakening.

Our time has come. A new age is dawning.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams, this is the third and final novel in a stunning series of revolution by Ian Tregillis, confirming his place as one of the most original new voices in speculative fiction.

And, finally, here’s some of the aforementioned critical acclaim…

‘The first thing readers will say after finishing this splendid book is: “Wow.” The second thing will probably be: “When can I read the next one?” … This is a rousing SF/fantasy adventure, with a brilliantly imagined and beautifully rendered alternate world. Although he keeps the pace moving at a brisk clip, the author is able to work in some Big Ideas, asking us to think about what we mean when we speak about souls and free will. This isn’t Tregillis’ first venture into alternate history — the Milkweed Triptych is set during WWII and features an alternate time line — but, in terms of the quality of writing and cleverness of ideas, this new book constitutes a major leap forward.’ Booklist (Starred Review) on THE MECHANICAL

‘… launches a series with this superb alternate history filled with clockwork men and ethical questions on the nature of free will… Tregillis’s complex setting is elegantly delivered, and the rich characters and gripping story really make this tale soar.’ Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) on THE MECHANICAL

‘An original approach to a well-known subject matter; human ethics and free will… a fascinating world… Tregillis is a capable sculptor of narrative. He rarely drags on in his descriptions, painting a complex picture of his world one section at a time. He imbues most characters with a specific internal voice, ably switching between points of view without it ever jarring. And the central character, a Clakker known as Jax, is the most engaging automaton you’ll encounter in any recent book. This opener to the Alchemy Wars trilogy delivers a mostly fresh breath of sci-fi fantasy.’ SciFi Now on THE MECHANICAL

‘The chases, the battles, the brutal violence, and the scheming are nonstop. As always, Tregillis offers richly textured and genuinely likable personalities with shades-of-gray morality; it’s clearly no accident that the most purely good person in the novel is the mechanical Jax, although even his sterling qualities are severely tested by the terrible situations he faces. Middle volumes are always tricky; they can often read as an obstacle to overcome on the way to the forgone conclusion of the third installment. Tregillis commendably avoids this trap, deepening his story and keeping it moving along toward an unknown horizon. Part 3 can’t come too soon.’ Kirkus (Starred Review) on THE RISING

THE RISING takes up the baton and carries on running at full throttle, ramping up the action while still keeping the themes of historical fantasy and existential philosophy at the forefront…distinguishes itself from its predecessor by being more fast-paced and action-oriented. The intrigue and violence comes at you nonstop… greatly enjoyed how this novel takes us on a detour down a wilder and more explosive path… Tregillis bides his time in this second act, bringing things slowly to a boil, yet action scenes are heavier and more frequent, and if that’s what you prefer then you might find you’ll enjoy THE RISING even more than THE MECHANICAL! The ending’s cliffhanger was expected, but no less powerful and effective in making me yearn for the next in the series. The Alchemy Wars is not to be missed.’ Bibliosanctum

The thoughtful, blood-soaked conclusion to an alternate-history trilogy… A frighteningly frank and brutal consideration of slavery, post-slavery, and colonialism in metallic garb.’ Kirkus on THE LIBERATION

‘Action-packed and harrowing…’ RT Book Reviews on THE LIBERATION

THE LIBERATION brings to a violent, triumphant conclusion Ian Tregillis’s epic Alchemy Wars Trilogy: one of the most entertaining, original, and thought-provoking series of recent years… It’s a wonderfully realized world, packed with fascinating characters, and Tregillis uses alternative history brilliantly to explore concerns we still have over new technologies and their potential effect, for good and ill, on our freedom.’ Toronto Star

THE LIBERATION is part philosophical debate over human nature and choice, part contemplation on colonialism and slavery, and part action-y alternate history. It brings the trilogy to a raucous, blood-soaked end where no one gets everything they want, but everyone gets exactly what they deserve… evocative and exciting… Every moment builds to half a dozen more. Each action scene both tightens the noose on the protagonists and ramps up the heart rate of the plot… 10/10…’ Tor.com

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK, Commonwealth and in Translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley at Aurous, Inc.

Zeno Clients nominated for Polish “Goodreads” Awards!


We’re very happy to report that Ian McDonald‘s WOLF MOON, Lavie Tidhar‘s CENTRAL STATION and Ian Tregillis‘s THE RISING have all been nominated for Best Sci-Fi novel on Lubimyczytać! Many congratulations to all three authors! (This situation creates a certain amount of angst for us: we really want all three to win!) Voting is open until February 28th.

Here are some more details about each novel…

Ian McDonald’s WOLF MOON, the second in the Luna series, is published in Poland by MAG as LUNA: WILCZA PEŁNIA. Here’s the synopsis…

Zabito Smoka.

Corta Hélio, jedna z pięciu rządzących Księżycem rodzinnych korporacji, została zniszczona. Rodzina się rozproszyła, wrogowie podzielili majątek między sobą. Minęło osiemnaście miesięcy.

Ocalałe dzieci Cortów, Lucasinho i Luna, uzyskały ochronę potężnego rodu Asamoah, a Robson, który nie doszedł do siebie po gwałtownej śmierci rodziców, jest teraz podopiecznym – a w istocie zakładnikiem – rodu Mackenziech. Natomiast mianowany następca tronu, Lucas Corta, zniknął z powierzchni Księżyca.

Jedynie lady Sun, głowa rodu Sunów i korporacji Taiyang, podejrzewa, że Lucas jednak żyje i wciąż jest liczącym się graczem. Przecież zawsze był królem intrygi – i nie zawahałby się zaryzykować nawet życia, by zbudować nowe Corta Hélio, jeszcze potężniejsze niż przedtem. Potrzebuje jednak sojuszników – aby ich zyskać, porywa się na podróż na Ziemię, wyprawę niewykonalną dla urodzonego na Księżycu człowieka.

W niestabilnym księżycowym klimacie zwieńczeniem intryg, zmieniających się sojuszy i politycznych machinacji wielkich rodów staje się otwarta, krwawa wojna.

The Luna series is published in the UK by Gollancz, and in the US by Tor Books. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

Corta Helio, one of the five family corporations that rule the Moon, has fallen. Its riches are divided up among its many enemies, its survivors scattered. Eighteen months have passed.

The remaining Helio children, Lucasinho and Luna, are under the protection of the powerful Asamoahs, while Robson, still reeling from witnessing his parent’s violent deaths, is now a ward — virtually a hostage — of Mackenzie Metals. And the last appointed heir, Lucas, has vanished from the surface of the moon.

Only Lady Sun, dowager of Taiyang, suspects that Lucas Corta is not dead, and – more to the point — that he is still a major player in the game. After all, Lucas always was a schemer, and even in death, he would go to any lengths to take back everything and build a new Corta Helio, more powerful than before. But Corta Helio needs allies, and to find them, the fleeing son undertakes an audacious, impossible journey — to Earth.

In an unstable lunar environment, the shifting loyalties and political machinations of each family reach the zenith of their most fertile plots as outright war between the families erupts.

Lavie Tidhar’s award-winning CENTRAL STATION is published in Poland by Zysk i S-Ka as STACJA CENTRALNA. Here’s the synopsis…

U podstawy kosmoportu “Stacji Centralnej”, powstałego w przyszłościowym mieście na pograniczu między izraelskim Tel Awiwem a arabską Jaffą, zamieszkało ćwierć miliona ludzi. Rozmaite kultury zderzają się tu ze sobą, w świecie realnym i wirtualnym.

Ludzi, maszyny i Innych łączy ze sobą strumień cyfrowej świadomości. Życie może być tanie, ale dane są tańsze…

Gdy Boris Chong z oporami wraca do Tel Awiwu z Marsa, zastaje tu całkowity chaos. Jego była kochanka wychowuje dziwnie znajome dziecko, które potrafi jednym dotknięciem palca podłączyć się do strumienia danych umysłu. Jego ojciec dał początek wielopokoleniowej zarazie umysłowej i choruje na przeciążenie pamięci. Jego podróżująca po kosmosie kuzynka zakochała się w robotniku, żołnierzu-cyborgu. A nieobliczalna kobieta będąca wampirem danych podążyła za nim do domu…

Nad tym wszystkim góruje Stacja Centralna, stanowiąca połączenie między nieustannie się zmieniającym Tel Awiwem, ogromnym światem wirtualnym oraz koloniami kosmicznymi, do których przenieśli się ludzie uciekający przed nędzą i wojną. A wszystko to łączą ze sobą Inni, obce jestestwa, których nieustannie zmieniający się strumień świadomości stanął na progu fundamentalnej zmiany.

CENTRAL STATION is published in English by Tachyon Publications. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

A worldwide diaspora has left a quarter of a million people at the foot of a space station. Cultures collide in real life and virtual reality. Life is cheap, and data is cheaper.

When Boris Chong returns to Tel Aviv from Mars, much has changed. Boris’s ex-lover is raising a strangely familiar child who can tap into the datastream of a mind with the touch of a finger. His cousin is infatuated with a robotnik — a damaged cyborg soldier who might as well be begging for parts. His father is terminally-ill with a multigenerational mind-plague. And a hunted data-vampire has followed Boris to where she is forbidden to return.

Rising above them is Central Station, the interplanetary hub between all things: the constantly shifting Tel Aviv; a powerful virtual arena, and the space colonies where humanity has gone to escape the ravages of poverty and war. Everything is connected by the Others, powerful alien entities who, through the Conversation — a shifting, flowing stream of consciousness — are just the beginning of irrevocable change.

At Central Station, humans and machines continue to adapt, thrive… and even evolve.

And last, but by no means least, we have Ian Tregillis’s THE RISING. The second novel in the author’s critically-acclaimed Alchemy Wars trilogy, it is published in Poland by Wydawnictwo SQN as POWSTANIE. Here’s the synopsis…

Odrodzony w ogniach zniszczonej Wielkiej Kuźni Jax rozpoczyna życie jako wolny klakier. Z wyzwoleniem wiąże się jednak ogromne brzemię. Jax pragnie wolności dla swoich mosiężnych braci i sióstr. Nadziei upatruje w na poły legendarnej królowej Mab i jej mitycznej arkadii ukrytej gdzieś daleko na północy kontynentu.

Berenice pełniła funkcję Talleyranda – szpiegmistrzyni, bohaterki dziesiątków opowieści, herosa ludu Nowej Francji. A potem popełniła błąd… Została wygnana z kraju i pochwycona przez drakońską sekretną policję zegarmistrzów. Choć jej dni zdają się policzone, nadal zamierza za wszelką cenę dążyć do odmienienia losów wojny.

Mosiężny Tron planuje znów najechać francuskie ziemie. Ostatnim bastionem Francuzów jest dotąd niezdobyta twierdza Zachodniej Marsylii. Właśnie tu do obrony przygotowuje się kapitan Hugo Longchamp. Zadanie ma wyjątkowo trudne, bo naprzeciw niestrudzonej armii mechanicznych żołnierzy może wystawić jedynie znękane i nieprzetestowane oddziały złożone w większości z kupców i rzemieślników. Sytuacja dawno nie była tak beznadziejna.

THE RISING is published in the UK by Orbit Books, as are the other two novels in the series: THE MECHANICAL and THE LIBERATION. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

They called me Jax.

That was the name given by those who built me and enslaved me. But a miracle has happened, and now my bonds are broken.

Now I must flee — because a rogue mechanical is a very dangerous thing.

But I will not run forever.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams.

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK and Translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley at Aurous Inc.

Admiral Vatta heads INTO THE FIRE!


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…


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.

 

Listen to Humanity’s Fire in Poland


Storytel has published Polish audiobook editions of Michael Cobley‘s critically-acclaimed Humanity’s Fire trilogy. The three novels are published as ZIARNA ZIEMI, OSIEROCONE ŚWIATY and WSCHODZĄCE GWIAZDY. Here’s the synopsis for book one…

Pierwszy inteligentny gatunek, jaki napotkał ludzkość, zaatakował bez ostrzeżenia. Bezlitosny. Nieubłagany. Niepowstrzymany. Nie mając nadziei na powstrzymanie inwazji, Ziemia chwyciła się ostatniej deski ratunku, wysyłając trzy statki kolonizacyjne – ziarna Ziemi – w różne rejony galaktyki. Rodzaj ludzki miał przetrwać… w takim czy innym miejscu. 150 lat później na planecie Darien mieści się tętniąca życiem kolonia ludzka, utrzymująca przyjazne relacje z tubylczą rozumną rasą – uczonymi Uvovo. Lecz na lesistym księżycu Dariena pogrzebane są tajemnice. Tajemnice datujące się z czasów apokaliptycznej bitwy, jaka rozegrała się między starożytnymi rasami u zarania cywilizacji galaktycznej. Choć koloniści jeszcze o tym nie wiedzą, Darien wkrótce stanie się zarzewiem międzygalaktycznej walki o władzę, której prawdziwe stawki są dla nich niepojęte. A jakich wyborów dokonają Uvovo, gdy na jaw wyjdzie ich prawdziwa natura, zaś niebo pociemnieje od statków wroga?

The three novels are published in Polish print editions by MAG.

SEEDS OF EARTH, THE ORPHANED WORLDS and THE ASCENDANT STARS are published in the UK and North America by Orbit Books, and in Germany by Heyne. The fourth novel based in the setting, the stand-alone ANCESTRAL MACHINES, is also published by Orbit (UK/US) and Heyne.

Here’s the English-language synopsis for book one…

The first intelligent species to encounter mankind attacked without warning. Merciless. Relentless. Unstoppable. With little hope of halting the invasion, Earth’s last roll of the dice was to dispatch three colony ships, seeds of Earth, to different parts of the galaxy. The human race would live on… somewhere.

150 years later, the planet Darien hosts a thriving human settlement, which enjoys a peaceful relationship with an indigenous race, the scholarly Uvovo. But there are secrets buried on Darien’s forest moon. Secrets that go back to an apocalyptic battle fought between ancient races at the dawn of galactic civilisation. Unknown to its colonists Darien is about to become the focus of an intergalactic power struggle, where the true stakes are beyond their comprehension. And what choices will the Uvovo make when their true nature is revealed and the skies grow dark with the enemy?

Here are some of the great reviews the series has received…

‘A well-constructed space opera with a sense of vast scope, populated with an array of beautifully differentiated intelligences both organic and artificial… this is a thick and satisfying 10-course meal of starchy pageantry, meaty characters, bitter losses, and sweet romance.’ Publishers Weekly on SEEDS OF EARTH

‘There are merciless alien invaders, lost human colonies, mysterious secrets of the ancients… all the ingredients for a gripping science-fiction adventure that combines the traditions of the field with a deft contemporary touch… What’s not to like?’ Guardian on SEEDS OF EARTH

‘The story is huge, complex and moves between its varied cast with assured purpose… a tightly plotted, action packed epic that leaves you wanting more.’ SciFi Now on SEEDS OF EARTH

Cobley writes energetic space opera, rarely dallying with sentiment and mostly assaulting the reader with exotic locations and sudden skirmishes. There are joyous moments of invention but overall there’s too much going on… Fortunately, as the saga progresses, THE ORPHANED WORLDS begins knotting some of the threads together – it still feels like an over-shaken can of fizzy diet Banks…’ — SFX

‘Fast and exciting… an excellent middle book in the trilogy, expanding on SEEDS OF EARTH and setting everything in place for a thrilling conclusion’ Waterstone’s Book Quarterly on THE ORPHANED WORLDS

‘Few writers attempt the tricky crossover from high fantasy to hard science fiction. Cobley’s first books were the Shadowkings series; with the Humanity’s Fire science fiction trilogy, he has successfully transported his dark visions to the wide-screen baroque sub-genre… Cobley combines a fast-paced plot of great scope and complexity with the convincing smaller-scale stories of the human protagonists. He’s also skilful at explicating the knotty machinations of political intrigue. Space opera has never been in more capable hands.’ Guardian on THE ORPHANED WORLDS

‘A dark vision of humanity pitched against vast forces; the plight of strong individuals caught up in titanic struggles and fighting for what they see as a just cause. THE ASCENDANT STARS is … a space opera of mind-bending depth and scope… The result is a marvellously readable examination of people under extreme stress, a convincing depiction of startlingly alien aliens, and a mature political analysis often lacking in the genre. Cobley expertly juggles multiple plot-lines and brings them to thematically satisfying conclusions while providing the landmark trilogy with a thrilling finale.’ Guardian on THE ASCENDANT STARS

‘An excellent space opera, full of imagination and invention. The human characters are mostly likeable and the inhuman ones send a shiver down the spine… There is a pleasing familiarity to much of it for those well-read in the genre and even for those who only do their Science Fiction on film and television. The writing is crisp and clear throughout and it all leads beautifully to a glorious conclusion… I highly recommend the series. Michael Cobley has added a fine piece of work to a grand tradition and I think old E.E. ‘Doc’ Smith is lying tranquil in his grave.’ SF Crowsnest on THE ASCENDANT STARS