Thursday, October 13, 2011

Carnelians-Catharine Asaro

Carnelians


Catharine Asaro

Baen, Oct 12 2011, $25.00

ISBN: 9781451637489



Eubian Concord Emperor Jaibriol III and his heir chief advisor Corbal discuss implementation of the peace treaty ending hostilities with the Skolian Imperialate. The emperor knows the Aristo oppose the treaty and he expects assassination attempts on his life and those in his inner circle like his consort Tarquine Iquar the Finance Minister.



Skoalian Imperialate Imperator Kelricson Garlin Valdoria kya Skolia approves the treaty also. He like his cousin Jaibriol supports implementation though he knows assassins from his side will try to kill him.



Tarquine’s ambitious nephew Eubian General Barthol Iquar learns of the song "Carnelians Finale" that rips his side for torture by earth bound musician Del-Kurj Arden Valdoria kya Skolia. The general sees the lyrics contain a perfect propaganda tool to heat the rage of Aristos opposed to the pact with their enemy. He sets in motion a scheme to eliminate the emperor, his aunt and the heir leaving him ruling the empire and ready to stealthy reignite the war.



Fans of the Saga of the Skolian Empire (see Diamond Star) will appreciate the latest science fiction thriller as peace proves fragile with insidious individuals using a diabolical misinformation campaign for personal goals. The cast is fully developed as the leaders of the enemy nations know the treaty could lead to their assassinations (think of Sadat after the Camp David Accords). Although newcomers will be lost in space, Catherine Asaro provides a complex thriller in which a song enflames the hot heads of three civilizations.



Harriet Klausner

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