Product Description
In Anne McCaffrey's New York Times bestselling DRAGONSEYE,
join Weyrleaders, Holders, and Craftmasters in the creation of the legendary Star Stones and the teaching ballads of Pern!

It's been two-hundred years since the deadly Thread fell like rain upon Pern, devouring everything in its path. No one alive remembers that first horrific onslaught and no one believes in its return--except for the dragonriders. For two centuries they have been practicing and training, passing down from generation to generation the formidable Threadfighting techniques.

Now the ominous signs are appearing: the violent winter storms and volcanic eruptions that are said to herald the approach of the Red Star and its lethal spawn. But one stubborn Lord Holder, Chalkin of Bitra, refuses to believe--and that disbelief could spell disaster. So as the dragonriders desperately train to face a terrifying enemy, they and the other Lord Holders must find a way to deal with Chalkin--before history repeats itself and unleashes its virulence on all of Pern. . . .Amazon.com Review
When the volcanoes rumble and the powerful storms begin brewing onPern, it means one thing: Thread. For 257 years Pern has been free ofthe life-destroying Thread, but now the Red Star has reappeared in thesky and soon the deadly Threadfall will follow. In the holds and weyrsacross the land, the genetically-engineered dragons of Pern and theirhuman riders begin feverishly training to combat the Thread, for onlydragon fire can destroy the silvery invaders. But, incredibly, oneLord Holder refuses to believe the Thread will fall again, and he mayendanger the entire planet. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (83)

A must read for Pern addicts
I can't really add much to the others reviewers, except to agree that if you love Pern novels, you can't miss this one. Interesting character and conflict development.

good book
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all.

Aweful
I read half of book, then threw it away, half thought out books written by hacks do a better job creating characters and story lines,

The return of the Thread
It has been over two hundred and fifty years since the first humans arrived on Pern.The original colonists had been, for the most part at least, dedicated to the idea of establishing a human society that was not dependent on technology, that would go back to a simpler way of life than the war torn world they had left behind.What they had not realized until it was too late to turn back or call for outside help was that their new, idyllic world had it's own problems.Every two hundred years an errant planet brought an invading lifeform to Pern.This lifeform, which the colonists named Thread, devoured organic matter in a matter of seconds.The colonists had been able to survive by relying on their technology but knew that they would not be able to maintain or replace their machines and so had genetically engineered dragons to help fight the invading Thread.

As DRAGONSEYE opens it has been two hundred years since Thread had last fallen on Pern, the colonists had prospered, the population had grown, Pernese culture and society had become established and the dragons had increased in both size and number in anticipation of the upcoming Threadfall.Unfortunately there were also problems, much of the remaining technology from the original settlers had either broken down or was in danger of doing so soon.With each passing generation more was lost of both the advanced machinery, materials and the knowledge needed to preserve them.Pern was entering a Dark Age and desperately needed to adapt to these new circumstances even if that meant abandoning the past.

DRAGONSEYE covers various subplots, including a young journeyman painter who sees both the best and worst that Pernese society has to offer.Also we are shown much about the workings of Pernese government, and life inside a Weyr.Overshadowing everything is the steady approach of Pern's own special enemy, the Red Star with it's accompanying fall of Thread.

As always with series books in general those who are fans will anxiously await the next installment to discover what has happened next.The Pern series is no exception to this even though many of the books skip forward many generations resulting in entirely new casts of characters.McCaffrey manages to tread the fine line of making each novel more or less independent of the previous book and so enabling the reader to read them in any order, without endlessly rehashing old material for the benefit of new readers and the boredom of fans.One bit of recycling that does occur though is that certain incidents seem to reappear in different novels, sometimes to the point of making the reader wonder if they hadn't read this particular book before.This may just be a case of a writer repeating herself over the course of a long series or of making the point that those who do not know their history are doomed to repeat it.

Overall though, this is an excellent entry into a wonderful series, one that has this reader on the lookout for the next installment, or an earlier one that has been missed.

Dragonseye
Enjoyed the story; Wondered in previous books about how the dragon riders knew when thread was due. This story answered my question. ... Read more

Product Description
Pilot, navigator, engineer, doctor, scientist—ship's cat? All are essential to the well-staffed space vessel. Since the early days of interstellar travel, when Tuxedo Thomas, a Maine coon cat, showed what a cat could do for a ship and its crew, the so-called Barque Cats have become highly prized crew members. Thomas's carefully bred progeny, ably assisted by humans—Cat Persons—with whom they share a deep and loving bond, now travel the galaxy, responsible for keeping spacecraft free of vermin, for alerting human crews to potential environmental hazards, and for acting as morale officers.

Even among Barque Cats, Chessie is something special. Her pedigree, skills, and intelligence, as well as the close rapport she has with her human, Janina, make her the most valuable crew member aboard the Molly Daise. And the litter of kittens in her belly only adds to her value.

Then the unthinkable happens. Chessie is kidnapped—er, catnapped—from Dr. Jared Vlast's vet clinic at Hood Station by a grizzled spacer named Carl Poindexter. But Chessie's newborn kittens turn out to be even more extraordinary than their mother. For while Chessie's connection to Janina is close and intuitive, the bond that the kitten Chester forms with Carl's son, Jubal, is downright telepathic. And when Chester is sent into space to learn his trade, neither he nor Jubal will rest until they're reunited.

    But the announcement of a widespread epidemic affecting livestock on numerous planets throws their future into doubt. Suddenly the galactic government announces a plan to impound and possibly destroy all exposed animals. Not even the Barque Cats will be spared.

    With the clock racing against them, Janina, Jubal, Dr. Vlast, and a handful of very special kittens will join forces with the mysterious Pshaw-Ra—an alien-looking cat with a hidden agenda—to save the Barque Cats, other animals, and quite possibly the universe as they know it from total destruction.
  ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Disappointment:Children's Book?
This should be rated as a book for children/teens.Have reading almost all of McCaffrey's SciFi books and was extremely disappointed.Have had cats for years, but after many attempts to finish the book, finally donated it to the local animal rescue resale shop.

Catalyst
Though I have not finish reading it yet...this is no different than previous books by Anne McCaffrey and Elizabeth Ann Scarborough.The story grabs you from the beginning and it is very hard to put the book down.I can see someone reading it all in one session!Only time restriction forces me to put it down.This will satisfy the appetite of readers seeking animal story, mystery and fiction.

Should be categorized as a children's book
An appealing story for children perhaps, but this book should not be categorized as adult fiction.It features very simple, shallow dialogue and characters.It was barely worth finishing, which is a shame because I have been a big fan of Anne McCaffrey for many years, since reading the Dragonriders of Pern series as a young teen.

Barque Cats--No Talents?
The book stood well on its own, but I was disappointed that the Talents didn't show up in it since that's where they (as characters) came from in the first place.However, I'm looking forward to the next ones in the series.

catalyst 1
I don't feel like this was as well written as most of her other books.It hopps about with alot less information as a lead in . I hope that the next book in the series helps to clear up some of the leftovers. ... Read more

Product Description
After 7 weeks on the New York Times hardcover bestseller list, the newest novel of the Dragonriders of Pern series is finally in paperback. Chronicling the first settlers of Pern, this is the story of the colonists' efforts to breed dragons to fight the deadly Thread before the lush planet is destroyed. "Dragonphile alert! Anne McCaffrey is back. . .Must reading for fans of the series."--San Diego Tribune. HC: Del Rey. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (88)

Dragonsdawn
I absolutely love Anne McCaffrey's stories.I am so happy that her son has followed in her footsteps.Even with Thread falling, Pern is my get-a-way.Thank you and please keep writing.

Dragonsdawn
If you love the dragonriders series this is a definite must have. This book is slow as most back-story books are but it fills in the history of PERN and how the dragonriders came to be. Some people may not like the story style but I find it interesting as it highlights how the PERN society came to be. It tells the story of the prominent families and future heroes of Pern & how their past is reflected in the actions they take to protect Pern.

Satisfied customer
I was very pleased with this book.I is one of the best.I was very satisfied with the service I received.

Excellent re-read
I've read this book before when it was first released. I decided to re-read the series in chronological order so started here. I have to say I enjoyed it more the second time around, although it's been over a decade since I first read it. Excellent story and Chronicles of Pern: First Fall makes a great follow up. Binding was very good, an off white color which surprised me and the bond has a rough finish to it, kinda nice.

great start to the series
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all. ... Read more

Product Description
InterGal Corporation has long desired to exploit the resource-rich Petaybee. But the planet and its guardians, led by Yana Maddock and Sean Shongili, along with their twin children, Ronan and Murel, have successfully thwarted every attempt by the Corporation to impose its iron-fisted dominion. Until now. With a bold move, InterGal’s military arm has dispatched an invading force to subdue the planet once and for all.

While their parents work to foil the assault, Ronan and Murel are captured and sent to a desolate prison world where an old enemy, Dr. Mabo, waits to continue her cruel experiments on the shape-changing siblings. The twins’ only hope of escape lies in the uncharted seas of the prison planet. But in the murky depths, something else is waiting. . . . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Disappointing in a way
I have read all of Anne McCaffrey's books as well as those with her son.I loved the original Power Play Trilogy but was somewhat disappointed with the final 3.I am yet to read the final in this trilogy.They seemed a little tame and childish in some ways (of course the main characters are children).

Petaybee three
In the McCaffrey/Scarborough tradition this read was a fast moving adventure with great characters, human, changeling, native and even alien. Yep, I'm a fan.

deluge
It was in great shape.Would have no problem in buting from this dealer.

A Grand Conclusion
Deluge (2008) is the third SF novel in the Twins of Petaybee trilogy, following Maelstrom.In the previous volume, Marmion de Revers Algemeine was arrested onboard the Piaf by Colonel Cally and two Federation Council representatives.All on the ship were taken to the Gwinnett Incarceration Colony.

Intergal Company troops were also sent to Petaybee to arrest the Shongilis.However, the communications officer on the Piaf left a channel open and the Intergal plans were broadcast to Petaybee.The copter on Petaybee picked up enough of the signal to realize the situation and to warn the Kilcoole villagers.

In this novel, Marmie and her companion (and First Officer) Adrienne Robineau are offloaded at the prison.Zuzu -- Adrienne's cat -- has been hiding from the troopers, but follows her mistress as she debarks from the ship.When the humans are placed in cells within the prison, Zuzu slinks through the crawl spaces, ratholes and other minor ways within the cellblock and locates Adrienne and Marmie.

On Petaybee, Murel, Ronan and Sky Otter hitch a ride in the Deep Sea Otter city/ship to Versailles Station. They infiltrate into the station with the Deep Sea Otter's transport beam and hide in Marmie's suite, but find her already gone.They observe the InterGal Company Corpsmen rounding up the residents and soon found themselves among the station children.The Intergal troopers ship everybody on the station to the Gwinnett prison colony.

Meanwhile, Company Corps troops are raiding Kilcoole.Naturally, they find nobody left in the village.While they are searching the village, snow begins to fall and the temperature drops.So they settle down in the town meeting hall to keep warm.

In this story, Yana discovers that the Company Corpsmen are onplanet and that her husband and children are gone.She and a few others capture the troopers in the village.Then Sean returns with the news that Murel and Ronan have gone offplanet.

Then Yana leads a raid against the Intergal ship and finesses the rest of the Company Corpsmen off it so that the villagers can capture them.Yana and a few others take the Intergal troop transport and follow Murel and Ronan.Once they are outside the interference of Petaybee, they send messages to Marmie's friends in the Intergal Corporation and the Federation Council telling of the illegal arrests and other illicit activities.

The adult captives from Versailles Station are locked up within the prison facility, but the children are carried across the sea to an island.Sky Otter follows the adults and joins with Zuzu.Together they help to free Marmie and Adrienne.

Murel and Ronan scout the ocean around the island and discover several interesting bits of information.There is little life in the sea other than fish, but giant squid live in the deeps.Then the Deep Sea Otters show up on the planet.

This tale concludes the trilogy.The various storylines are brought together in this volume.Yet there may be more to come.Enjoy!

Highly recommended for McCaffrey & Scarborough fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of interstellar civilizations, shapeshifters and daring youngsters.

-Arthur W. Jordin

Another winner!
This duo of authors writes a good book!I can only wish they continue. Make sure you read the Powers That Be trilogy and then the Twins of Petaybee trilogy so that you get the full story. ... Read more

Product Description
The specter of sickness looms over the Weyrs of Pern, felling fire-lizards and threatening their dragon cousins, Pern’s sole defense against the deadly phenomenon that is Thread. Fiona, the young rider of queen dragon Talenth, is about to assume the duties of a Weyrwoman when word spreads that dragons have begun succumbing to the new contagion. As more dragons sicken and die, Weyrleader B’Nik and queen rider Lorana comb Fort Weyr’s archives in a desperate search for clues from the past that may hold the solution to the plague. But could the past itself prove the pathway to salvation for Pern’s imperiled dragons? Guided by a mysterious ally from a wholly unexpected place, and trusting in the dragon gift for transcending time, Fiona will join a risky expedition with far-reaching consequences for both Pern’s future and her personal destiny. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (58)

Avoid like the Plague!
This book is truly dreadful!

I know the author is Anne's son, but I really wonder if he's bothered to read ANY of her awesome Dragonrider books! I love the series and I'm currently re-reading them for the second time and thought it would be great to read some of the 'new' ones... BIG mistake!

What on earth makes he him think a dragon can die in his sleep without his rider or the other dragons being aware of it!!!?? And then the other riders thinking they can keep it quiet from the dragons until the following morning! What a TOTAL joke!

He also seems to think that you can hear dragons go 'between', and that gold dragons and dragonriders have no way to tell a gold egg from the others.... (And I'm less than a fifth of the way through the book so far!)

To top it all off, this guy seems to have a very one track mind when it comes to plots too - it's either a plague, or a plague. It's a wonder anyone is left on Pern!

Avoid this book at all costs!!!!

Anne where are you?
I've read and loved all the Pern books and was happy to see that Todd was continuing his mother's legacy.But sad to say, he has lost the zest of the culture and the Dragons we all love.In previous books the Dragons had true personalities and were a part of the story.Now they seem to be just an after thought without any true depth.This book is genuinely out of sync with the others and I'm trying hard to stay interested enough to finish it.AND I've never had that problem before with a Pern book.I'd hate to see the Pern series end but I'd hate, even more, to see it destroyed!Todd, if you are going to continue your mother's work then do so as she would, with characters that are interesting and vibrant.

No stars if I had a choice.
I REALLY tried to keep an open mind while reading this book, but I couldn't get past the fourth chapter. The writing is bad; there is no other word for it. Inane plot, shallow characters, unbelievable dialog, horrible pacing, and yet another damn plague! Dear Anne, your boy can't write. Dear Publisher, You should be ashamed to be hawking these books with Anne's name on them. Selling snake oil would be less disgraceful.

I so wanted to enjoy this book but it wasn't meant to be
I LOVE the Pern books and was soooooo looking forward to go back to the planet, people, and dragons that captured my immagination long ago.Dragonheart was my first Todd McCaffrey book and I was left...well flat.The story had potential but failed to live up to the character development and depth of the Anne McCaffrey novels.I feel like there were significant events looming that were casually left unresolved.More focus seemed to be on an implausible 12-16 year old Fiona her improbable leadership skills and her inevidable sexual relationship with a man more than twice her age...did anyone have a problem with that?? Maybe it's because I'm more grown up but this seems to send pretty unsavory signals.Somehow the Anne McCaffry characters were so much more believable and easier to value.Sorry Todd, I'm not getting the same vibe.

Disappointing
This is my first Pern book. I was going to get to Pern series for a long time, and so now I saw one available and picked it up, without paying attention to the *actual* title and author. My own fault, I should have noticed that I was not getting the real deal. I got it on audio, which makes matters even worse as this slop is served in a rather annoyingly cooing, oftentimes cloying manner. It also does not help matters that I am listening to this book after having finished the latest Pratchett's novel, so on contrast, it's especially bad. Dragonheart revolves around a very annoying 13 year old girl and has virtually no characters that one could grow to like. It has lengthy pointless dialogs, seemingly, with no real reason. Characters bicker, situation arise out of the blue and have no bearing on anything later, background stories are presented as dry summaries.

Going back in time just makes you cringe - really?! any more ridiculous plot devices? Worse yet, until the point where the character comes up with that brilliant idea (in the most ridiculous manner, too! like, "wow, we need TIME! Let's go back in time!") that capability was not existent; yet they seem to all just shrug and say oh OK, really, good idea, let's go back in time, and off they go. And what's up with all these girls sleeping together? What's up with an obnoxious, unruly, violent wing leader being allowed to act like that? What's up with silly submission passing for attempts to maintain peace?

I also had a problem with the dragons - sorry Pern fanatics - but why were the beast genetically engineered to actually NOT be able to live as fully functioning organisms? I meanthe constant oilings they required because of apparent inadequacy of skin. Perhaps that is explained somewhere earlier on, but I felt a bit annoyed - you know, if you are going to genetically engineer a beast out of existing lizards, you might as well make it right.

To sum up, this book is a drawn out, at times senseless narration involving characters hard to care about (unless you're a 13 year old girl yourself, perhaps), stories hard to get engaged by, and marked by dull, unimpressive style. ... Read more

Product Description
Sara had been torn from Earth by a nameless black force and taken to Lothar where she was forced to care for a strange man, who she discovered was the Regent. She escaped in panic, and become a fugitive in a world of multiple evils.... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Great Electronic Version
I found this book when I was in middle school and just beginning to read Anne McCaffrey's Harper Hall Trilogy. The book enthralled me instantly. I was unable to put it down until I was finished reading it. I am thrilled to see a Kindle version available. I could not wait to download it. I was a little apprehensive because a few of the other older books I had bought were riddled with grammatical errors and scanning errors. (t appearing as r and etc). I was delighted to find relatively few mistakes with this electronic version. The few I found were not terribly distracting and were not repeated through out the work like others I have seen.

The story is solid and a quick read. I truly enjoy it and recommend it to anyone who likes light sci-fi fantasy.

Great Book - one of my all time favorites!
I was really glad to see this available on Kindle since it's an older book.It's one of my all time favorites.

Great Book!!
This is one of my favorite Anne McCaffrey books. I've read it several times and can't find my original copy so I had to order another one. This is very different from her dragonrider books, but no less entertaining. It's more of a love story, with a nice bit of suspense at the end.

Very good "Sci-Fi Romance"
This is one of three books that a wonderful couple lent me in 1981 (as I was sick in bed with pneumonia in Bicester England). The other two were Terry Brooks break out novel "The Sword of Shanara", and CJ Cherryh's the "Pride of Channur". This was my first foray into fictional literature for fun since Jr. High School. If you have read any of these three books, you will understand why that illness changed my life forever.

These three books are so well written that I had no choice but to fall in love with reading and start a tradition of averaging one book per week ever since.

Restoree, is Sci-Fi, but be advised it is mostly romance... However, this isn't sappy romance; it is thoughtful romance with a very strong female protagonist.

If you aren't familiar with Anne McCaffrey, Restoree is a very good place to start, (then go to The Ship Who Sang, The Crystal Singer series and of course the Dragonrider books (which were more hit and miss with me, but overall an excellent series).

So here's the deal, good books can change your life, and this is a pretty darn good book!

This is one of my all time favorite books!
I read this book after I had read McCaffrey's Dragon series when I found it used.I read it, kept it read it again, still loved it and had to scrounge around until I could find a newer less read copy as I wanted to read it again.I am glad it is being reissued.Another lesser known books of McCaffrey's that are good but more in the Romance Genre, The Mark of Merlin,Ring of Fear and the Kilternan Legacy.They are very dated but great stories.I noticed that they seem to have been reissued which is great as I need to pick up less used copies for my keeper collection.But back to Resoree, I wish there had been a sequel to this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Finally together in one volume, the first three books in the world's most beloved science fiction series, THE DRAGONRIDERS OF PERN, by Anne McCaffrey, one of the great science fiction writers of all time: DRAGONFLIGHT, DRAGONQUEST, THE WHITE DRAGON. Those who know these extraordinary tales will be able to re-visit with Lessa, F'lar, Ruth, Lord Jaxon, and all the others. And for those just discovering this magical place, there are incomparable tales of danger, deceit, and daring, just waiting to be explored..
Amazon.com Review
Anne McCaffrey's Pern is one of the most memorable worlds in sciencefiction and fantasy. Humans and their flying dragon companions live in fearof thread, a caustic, deadly material that falls sporadically from space.But when the thread doesn't fall for a long time, people become complacent,forgetting that it is the brave dragonriders who can save them from theperiodic threat. But when the thread falls, human and dragon heroes mustfight the scourge. This edition encompasses the first three unforgettablenovels of McCaffrey's epic series: Dragonflight, Dragonquest,and The White Dragon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (90)

Good Series, Not Crazy About This Packaging
I like to sit back, relax, and read good novels.I had heard of Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern series, and decided to give it a try.

I was very pleased with the world that McCaffrey has created.A great world of fantasy, with some really interesting ideas, and a spellbinding plot.As the stories went on, I could also see McCaffrey's writing style improving.The earlier chapters were a little harder for my brain to digest, but the later ones were much easier, and I really got into the stories.

However, this particular edition, with 3 volumes bound into one, was a little heavy to hold.It was hard to sit back and relax, because of the weight of the book (and it's a paperback!)I'd find myself putting it down purely because my arms were tired.

I highly recommend the series, but consider getting it in e-book format.(Kindle, iPad, Nook, et al) or else buy the three books separately, instead of this edition where they are bound together as one.

Dragonriders of Pern
I was quite surprised at the condition of these books when they arrived.I bought them used, but they looked almost brand new. I was very happy with the purchase and the seller.I received the books quickly and without any complications.

great book
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all.

Good Book, Poor Service
The original hardcover version of this book is only available from specialty book sellers. It is also a better quality version than the current softcover version, e.g. typographical errors. Unfortuantely some book sellers such as Supermart advertise the original hardcopy (showing the original dust cover on the Amazon web page) but ship the current softcopy version. Supermart does not provide a customer service phone number or instructions for RMA processing. I sent several emails to Supermart and Amazon requesting the hard cover version (as adveretised) and instructions for returning the softcover version they sent me. Never heard from either company. I finally found a reputable book store in NY that did send me the original hardcover version in impeccable condition. Be cautious when using Amazon Marketplace affiliates. Unless they provide a customer service contact, phone numbers, and stated return policy, find another seller.

Brilliant premise, less than brilliant writing, a guilty pleasure!
I've loved the Dragonriders of Pern series since I was a kid and still enjoy re-reading them as an adult. The premise of the series is breathtakingly brilliant and really stirs the imagination, and the depth and breadth of the fantasy world Mccaffrey has created rivals those of Tolkien and Lucas in some respects, certainly in terms of concept if not in development. The idea of an advanced civilization regressing to a more primitive society inadvertently holds a lot of interest and is somewhat under-explored in the world of science fiction. Unfortunately her imagination is better than her writing as the style is somewhat sophomoric. I can't count how many times someone says something "sardonically" or "chuckles" in this series. It seems like a good editor could raise Mccaffrey's game in this respect. Having said that, these books are a thoroughly enjoying read and one can't help but care for the characters and their plight even as you groan occasionally at the romance novel-esque plot twists or clunky prose. I don't own this particular publication of the series so I can't speak to it but have the three novels individually and also own them on the kindle for iphone which is my preferred medium these days. For younger readers these are a delight and for older or more sophisticated minds, a guilty pleasure. The dragonsinger series and the later Mccaffrey books also merit reading albeit with the same caveats. ... Read more

Product Description
The latest adventure in the Dragonriders of Pern series follows the efforts of Pern's human colonists to reestablish contact with the legendary, superintelligent ""shipfish"" they brought with them centuries ago. Reprint. PW. AB. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (71)

great books
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all.

The Dolphins of Pern
Just reliving my reading the Pern books. Been over 38 years ago When I first read my first Pern Book.

Not a book
At first blush, I was wondering whether this was a new book versusthe old one sitting on my bookshelf ,with the same title, about 2 feet from me. The Dolphins of Pern is a good book. Just remember when you see this MP3 CD is an audio book.
The paper book is much cheaper. Heck, you can't beat $4.00 for a Hardback including postage.

Five stars for fans of the series.......
much less for those who are not.

There is a message from the author at the front of the book that states that she "...respectfully suggests that books in the Pern series be read in the order in which they were published....".There are twelve books in the series that precede this one so those new to the series begin with DRAGONFLIGHT not here, the more of the earlier novels a reader has missed the less they will enjoy this one.

This novel covers roughly the same time period as ALL THE WEYRS OF PERN and shares many of the same characters.The original landing site of the colonists has been discovered, including the computer, known as AIVAIS, which has supplied the Pernese with a wealth of information.One of the questions AIVAIS has raised was about the dolphins who had migrated to Pern with the original colonists.Over the intervening 2500 years the two sets of colonists, human and dolphin had lost contact despite the dolphins efforts.Contact was re-established though when a sudden storm caught a sailor and his passenger, the young son and heir to the local hold, by surprise and capsized their small craft.They were rescued by the dolphins, who were delighted to realize that the boy was willing to converse with them.When the boy, Readis, insisted that the dolphins spoke he was generally dismissed as a fanciful child even though the Pernese were quite familiar with human/dragon interaction.Over the years though Readis continued his relationship with the dolphins who came to have a dramatic impact on his life and the life of his planet.

This is a wonderful addition to the Pern saga but it is definitely not a 'stand alone' story.Anyone attempting to begin with this one will be completely lost.Even if certain novels have been missed, or read some time earlier certain points will not make much sense.Part of the attraction of this series is the depth and complexity of the plots and characters.McCaffrey has created an entire new world and society here, one that needs to be savored in it's entirety.

...they had remembered to remember...
So how do you follow up the fabulous All the Weyrs of Pern (Dragonriders of Pern Series), which told of the concerted, all-out efforts of Weyr, Hold, and Craft to finally, irrevocably eradicate Thread from the planet of Pern? THE DOLPHINS OF PERN is the next novel to catch us up with the folks of the present Pass (the 9th one), and, sucks to say, it just can't live up to the level of excitement, thrills, and just plain dazzle brought about by ALL THE WEYRS OF PERN. It certainly doesn't satisfy as much. But it's not bad, either. It's still written, after all, by one of the all-time storytelling greats in fantasy/science-fiction.

In THE DOLPHINS OF PERN, Anne McCaffrey chronicles the reconnecting of man and dolphin on Pern. As told in Dragonsdawn (Dragonriders of Pern Series), dolphins, genetically enhanced with the gift of speech, had numbered among the original colonists from Earth. In the early days of Pern's settlement, dolphin and man had formed a partnership and had begun to explore and map the oceans of Pern. But then the skies unexpectedly began to rain deadly silvery spores (called Thread), which devoured everything organic in their path.

Instantly, man's progress on Pern is halted, as Earth's descendants find themselves frantically fighting for survival against the onslaught of Thread. Vast chunks of time elapse. Down the centuries, technology falls on the wayside. And mankind forgets the dolphins. What remains are vague but countless myths of sea creatures called "shipfish" who rescue people from a watery grave. But no one really believes these tall tales.

But the dolphins haven't forgotten. And, more than 2500 years later, their unwavering vigil and faithfulness are rewarded, as man at last re-establishes contact with them. THE DOLPHINS OF PERN centers on three characters - Masterfisher Alemi (also Menolly's brother), the youthful and untested dragonrider T'lion, and Readis, the young son of Paradise River Holder Jayge and his wife Aramina. This novel focuses mostly on their momentous encounters with the intelligent, talking dolphins of Perns. The actions of these three people would have wide-ranging repercussions for the seafaring communities, both human and cetacean. Initially, Alemi and T'lion are the predominantly featured characters. Then, somewhere halfway thru the book, Readis, in his teenhood, takes over as the central figure.

But, as per usual, McCaffrey affectionately finds spots to guest star several of her most beloved characters. There are welcome sightings of Menolly, Masterharper Robinton, Jaxom & the white dragon Ruth, F'lar and Lessa, and even of Aivas. And, if you're a fan of Jayge and Aramina fromThe Renegades of Pern (Dragonriders of Pern Series) (I'm not), well, they're here, too. Be warned, however, that Aramina comes off as unlikeable here. THE DOLPHINS OF PERN at first runs concurrent with the historic events in ALL THE WEYRS OF PERN, but then eventually moves three years beyond. So, for those who've wondered at the immediate impact of the Aivas years, this book does the job. In fact, one benefit of the overlapping of stories is that we get to see the stunned reactions of the Paradise River residents toward a tragedy which happens in the final pages of ALL THE WEYRS OF PERN.

There's also an annoying subplot involving Lord Toric, a recurring character throughout the Pern series who forever is conniving up ways to snap up more land and more power. Here, he's up to his old tricks and the Dragonriders of Pern have to once again stomp on him good and hard. Betcha Toric doesn't learn his lesson...

THE DOLPHINS OF PERN is a good read, and, if you're into dolphins, it's a damn good read. McCaffrey portrays them as intelligent and playful and cute as hell. If these sea creatures don't win you over, then you just may be dead inside. McCaffrey also does well to show the doubts and even dismissal felt by the humans regarding the "shipfish" and their status as a legitimate intelligent life. The telling moment may have been the healer Persellan's cranky conversion as he comes from regarding dolphins as waste-of-time nuisances to finally accepting them as viable patients. It isn't too long before the sea-going folk learn that the dolphins can be summoned via a bell (reviving an old tradition) and thus avail themselves of reports on weather, sea hazards, and the best fishing sites. Dolphins also have sonar, which allows them x-ray capability with which to assist the healer halls. But just as man can now again depend on the dolphins for aid and information, it's a reciprocal deal. The dolphins also have their needs and, thru the same bell, can now also call on man.

The book has a natural, episodic feel. Even though the reader is aware of the all consuming project to rid Pern of Thread, it's a plot that isn't central to the main storyline. So, with regards to the dolphins, there isn't one specific, overwhelming jeopardy to get your juices flowing. There is, however, a monster of a storm which disastrously affects the coasts of Pern and inadvertently puts Readis on a life-changing path.

Anne McCaffrey knows how to entertain you, knows how to warm your heart. The plight of the dolphins and the sheer span with which they've kept faith and went about their duties to man - if that doesn't smack you in your emotional core, well, again, I'm pulling the "dead inside" card. McCaffrey is such a natural storyteller that I ate up even her description of the characters' day-to-day minutiae. The leading characters are ones we're not that familiar with, going into the story. McCaffrey has written of Alemi and little Readis before, although not in great detail. T'lion is a new character. Personally, I found myself liking the unassuming Alemi and T'lion, especially T'lion, whose personal conflicts involve his untested status (he's too young to fight Thread) and his jealous older dragonrider of a brother (T'lion had impressed a bronze, his brother a mere brown). I'm mostly lukewarm towards Readis, who, to me, just isn't that interesting. And, concerning his act of rebellion, Menolly did that first, and a long time ago. However, my favorite new character here is Theresa, who doesn't appear until the book's almost over. But she sure has a presence about her... ... Read more

Product Description
"A treat for long-time McCaffrey fans, a good read and a satisfying look at one of the most haunting facets of the crystal singers' profession."
LOCUS
When Killashandra Ree joined the mysterious Heptite Guild, she knew that she would be forever changed. Crystal singing brought ecstasy and pain, near-eternal life...and gradual loss of memory. What she hadn't counted on was the loneliness she felt when her heart still remembered what her mind had forgotten. Fortunately, someone still cared enough to try to salvage what was left of Killashandra's mind. But she would have to learn to open herself--to another person, and to all her unpleasant memories.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

One of my favorite sci-fi series
I haven't read these in a few years but remember really enjoying them. All in all this has everything I look for in a series: imaginative scenes with understandable explanations and interesting, likeable characters who you care what happens to. Also, it has an end. There are so many authors who keep a series alive long after they should have wrapped it up. If you enjoy sci-fi or fantasy with female leads, then give this series a try.
The first book opens us to the lead character, Killishandra Ree, and the very imaginative and detailed world of crystal singers. Killishandra was studying to be a professional stage singer on one planet, but when that lifelong dream is blown, she meets a crystal singer and decides to try to become one herself. Broken down, singers are basically miners of crystals used all over the galaxy for numerous things such as inter-galactic communications. Why they're called singers is that they have to be able to sing in perfect pitch in order to "tune in" to the crystal frequency so that it can be cut properly. This job is fraught with danger, the first of which is surviving the organism that invades their bodies as they land on the planet where the crystals are to be cut. The organism allows them to live on the planet and allows them a long life with a much slower ageing process (hundreds of years). Unfortunately, it cannot protect them from the memory-loss that all crystal singers suffer due to crystal exposure. They do get paid a ton, but of course, like a mining community of old, the "Guild" charges singers for all their equipment and multiple fees, making it hard for them to earn enough credits to get off planet and far enough away from the crystals' negative effects. Also, different crystals are worth different prices, depending on their color, cut and potential usefulness.
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
In the second book, we find Killishandra, now an established "singer", sent to another planet to install some type of crystal for producing musical sound (an enormous concert organ which is used by the planet's government in a diabolical way to control the citizenry). She's kidnapped by rebels on the planet and meets Lars Dahl, the series' primary love interest. I really don't remember all the book specifics on this one, but I remember really enjoying the book as well as the developing romance.
*** MAJOR SPOILER ALERT ***
In the last book Killishandra and Lars have been cutting crytals together for years (as in hundreds, I think). He has kept an electronic journal which reminds him of things so he can minimize the memory damage of the crystal. She has not. You think, "OMG! How sad! Oh no!", quite a bit throughout this book. It can be hokey at times, but also beautiful. I warned of spoilers, but I will not give away the ending.

good fluff
This is another McCaffrey book. If you're into her writing and her style this is typical. The storyline is basic the difference is there's a few surprises. The writing is good and decent. I like the fact it leaves you kinda hanging until the last bit of the book, which once again is typical. She tries to string you along but if you are familiar with her writing and style you can read between the lines and figure out the basic secret she's keeping from the reader before it is officially revealed. I like McCaffrey because she's an easy read and good fluff for when I feel stressed out over work. She gets my mind onto happier things and helps escape. Good book and the series isn't half bad either.

Crystal Line
A great read, wrapping up the story started in Crystal Singer and continued in Killashandra.

Crystal Singer Series
I love these characters, and I am glad this book gave me a chance to see them evolve.New ideas for the series are presented, so I hope we get another book soon about the Junk Jewels.

A fitting ending for the series
A must read for those who liked the first two books. Somewhat slow at some points, but quite interesting. Provides a fitting ending for the series and a better understanding of the drawbacks of crystal singing. ... Read more

Product Description
In Catalyst, award-winning authors Anne McCaffrey and Elizabeth Ann Scarborough introduced readers to the beguiling Barque Cats: spacefaring felines who serve aboard starships as full-fledged members of the crew. Highly evolved, the cats share an almost telepathic bond with their minders, or Cat Persons—until, suddenly, there is no “almost” about it, and a particular Barque Cat, Chester, learns to exchange thoughts with his human friend, Jubal. Other cats soon gain the same ability. 

Behind the seeming miracle is a mysterious cat named Pshaw-Ra, who possesses knowledge and technology far beyond anything the Barque Cats—or their humans—have ever seen. When fear of a virulent plague leads the government first to quarantine and then to kill all animals suspected of infection, Pshaw-Ra—with the help of Chester, Jubal, and the crew of the starship Ranzo—activates a “mousehole” in space that carries the refugees to a place of safety: Pshaw-Ra’s home planet of Mau, where godlike cats are worshiped by human slaves. 

But Pshaw-Ra’s actions are less noble than they appear. The scheming cat plans to mate the Barque Cats with his own feline stock, creating a hybrid race of superior cats—a race destined to conquer the universe. Yet right from the start, his plans go awry.

For one thing, there’s a new queen on Mau: Pshaw-Ra’s daughter Nefure, a spoiled brat—er, cat—with a temper as short as her attention span. Pshaw-Ra’s other daughter, the rightful queen Renpet, is exiled, running for her life in the only direction available to her—down into the vast catacombs beneath the Mauan desert. Far from receiving the hero’s welcome he expected, Pshaw-Ra must use every bit of his considerable cleverness just to survive.

Meanwhile, as usual, Chester and Jubal stumble right into the middle of things, in the process uncovering the lost secrets of the Mauan civilization. But that’s not all they uncover. In the forgotten catacombs deep below the Mauan capital, something has awakened. Something as old as the universe. Something that hungers to devour all light and life—and that bears an undying hatred for cats. ... Read more

Product Description
Nerilka's Story. It was in Moreta's time -- a time of legend, of heroic valor, of terrible Threadfall and the Great Plague that devastated both Holders and Dragonfolk. For Lady Nerilka of Fort Hold, the tragedy was twofold, for with the death of her mother and her sister, her father's mistress took possession of the Hold. Angry and betrayed, Nerilka decided to escape and, as Pern seethed in turmoil, she began her perilous journey to Ruatha, Lord Alessan and an unknown destiny. The Coelura. When the Lady Caissa was told by her exalted sire to enter into an heir-contract with Cavernus Gustin she was appalled. For although Gustin was genetically sound he was vain, pompous and intellectually inept. But Caissa's father was determined there should be a union -- he had his own privately plotted plans for such a match. And a few hours later Caissa began to suspect what they were. On a private flight over the forbidden areas of the North, she was alerted by a distress signal -- and there discovered a stranger who said his name was Murell -- a man surrounded by coelura, the incredible rainbow creatures whose very brilliance threatened their extinction. It was the coelura her father wanted.And Murell was determined to save them. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (30)

fun book
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all.

Nerilka's Story
Not a typical story about dragons. Gives a different focus of life on Pern. Good read!

Another great book from Anne McCaffery
Nerilka's Story is a back story to Moreta. It takes place at the same time. A wonderful story about a lesser know character.

Great if you like Sci Fiction
The Pern series of books from Anne McCaffery are great.Better if you read them in order, (look online at her website for recommendations).This is futuristic science fiction, but if you liked Aregon, you would probably like this series too

Nerilka's Story
Another great story of Pern!The book arrived in perfect condition and faster then I expected. ... Read more

Product Description
In Freedom's Landing, a galactic invasion forced thousands of humans to colonize a new planet. In Freedom's Choice, human Kris Bjornsen and her comrades found new hope for rebellion.

Now, in Freedom's Challenge, Kris and her Catteni lover Zainal prepare to face danger and pain, in the final fight...for liberty.

"Interesting characters...space opera action!"--Locus

"A satisfying culmination to a saga of desperate courage and the desire for freedom."--Library Journal

"Rip-roaring adventure no science fiction fan could possibly resist."--Romantic Times

*The thrilling follow-up to McCaffrey's national bestsellers, Freedom's Landing and Freedom's Choice

"Rousing, fast paced and riveting. McCaffrey continues to amaze..." --Booklist ... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

A Wrench In The Works
The planet Botany, once the home of struggling colonists, is now the headquarters for those who wish to see Eosi domination of Earth and other worlds come to a sudden, jarring halt.To this end, Kris Bjornsen, the renegade Catteni Zanial, and the other colonists of the planet Botany launch a series of attacks against Eosi/Catteni interests in an attempt to undermine (and eventually overthrow) Eosi rule.

Freedom's Challenge continues the tale of those who were dropped against their will on the planet that would come to be known as Botany.Unfortunately, this novel does not live up to the two previous books in the the series:Freedom's Landing and Freedom's Choice.The novel's pacing was simply too uneven and there were too many times where McCaffrey would switch from once scene to another with little to no preparation, making the transition jarring.

Despite the book's flaws, the underlying idea of Botany is a good one and the story is interesting enough that I will likely pick up the final installment in the series, Freedom's Ransom, at some point in the future.

Just not enough conflict
I did read the 3 books in the series and I was waiting for something to go wrong, someone to die. This is fiction, I suppose, so reality need not enter. I just see this as a scenario in a lifeboat and everyone agrees all the time. Not. There is no edge.
I read science fiction only occasionally now. At one time, I did read a good deal of it and found that much of it was based on a forumla. This work falls into that camp.

Anne McCaffrey's (Freedom's Challenge)
Freedom's Challenge is an excellent continuation to the Freedom's series.It's fast passed exciting and fun.

Shows McCaffrey at her best
The Human/alien colony on Botany, founded when the warrior Catteni "dropped" several shiploads of slaves to fend for themselves, has come a long way since First Drop. Human Kris Bjornsen and many others have learned the Catteni language, thanks to the one member of that species who was exiled with them: Zainal, who has become Kris's lover and the community's leader in the one project that matters most. Which is freeing the Catteni from their Eosi overlords, who are actually behind all of the Catteni aggression. With Kris and other Catteni-speaking Humans in suitable disguise, Zainal leads several expeditions to Catteni worlds - including the home planet of Catten, and still-rebellious Earth - to gather resources and line up allies. Does his plan stand a chance of succeeding? And if it doesn't succeed, what will happen to the colony on Botany if the alien "Farmers" who have placed a protective bubble around that planet withdraw the protection? Because Eosi Mentat Ix, the being who subsumed Zainal's brother after Zainal refused to come home and fulfill his duty as a "chosen" ("I dropped, I stay!"), retains just enough of Lenvec's memories and emotions to set the Mentat on an irrational crusade to find and punish Zainal. Which means breaking through Botany's protection - and, not incidentally, looting and razing Earth until nothing remains there, to punish the Humans of Botany for giving Zainal sanctuary.

This third book in McCaffrey's "Freedom" trilogy shows the author at her best, because its plot proceeds naturally from both the characters we already know and the cultures the previous books established. Both characters and cultures get additional fleshing out, with McCaffrey using her considerable world-building skills to good advantage; but none of the new material conflicts with what we learned earlier, and the characters (even minor ones) stay true to themselves. Now, that takes doing.

A wonderful romp - action packed
I thought this one was better than the second sequel, and way better than the fourth. Zainal's sons are found, the Eosi domination confronted, and the relationship between Kris and "Zay" continues to develop. More Catteni are presented as sympathetic, more rounded characters. The only thing that bothered me was it seemed a bit inconsistent, unless Anne was trying to interchange words like Drassi and Emassi on purpose...but then, she's entitled to a few slips at her age, with so many great books to her name. I would've liked more development of the story around Zay's boys on Catten, but the novel is satisfying. I suggest re-reading it, because more of the story seems to unfold when read more slowly...but it's too absorbing to read slowly the first time through! It's a believeable "alternate future" story, with insights into human behavior and social injustice. A great adventure away from Pern/dragonriders, showing Anne's talent has other facets. Introducing Maasi warriors from Africa into the mix was amazing - but it worked. They rehab some of the most difficult kids. True to her style, this series has no religion, no graphic violence and no explicit sex - hooray!!! Safe for kids, but engaging for adults, and no bad role-modeling :-)which is hard to say about alot of fiction, TV and movies included. ... Read more

Product Description
In a triumphant career spanning more than thirty years, Anne McCaffrey has won the devotion of millions of fans. Now she has written the exciting and long-awaited addition to her classic Pegasus series--and the perfect link to her bestselling Rowan saga . . .

For an overpopulated Earth whose resources are strained to the breaking point, there is only one place to look for relief: straight up. With the successful completion of the Padrugoi Space Station, humanity has at last achieved its first large-scale permanent presence in space. But there are those who, for motives of their own, want Padrugoi to fail. Standing in their way are the Talented, men and women gifted with extraordinary mental powers that have made them as feared as they are respected--and utterly indispensable to the colonization effort. Now, as sabotage and attempted murder strike the Station, it's up to the Talented to save the day. Only who is going to save the Talented?

Pegasus in Space is the tale of Peter Reidinger, first Tower Prime!Amazon.com Review
Anne McCaffrey is best known for The Dragonriders of Pern, but her loose Talents series about superpsychics has been running almost as long. It began with the near-future To Ride Pegasus, continuing a couple of generations later in Pegasus in Flight. Book 2 introduced a crowd of new characters, notably the paralyzed boy Peter whose telekinetic talent can move not only his body without help from his ruined nervous system, but--with practice--even lift payloads into orbit.

Pegasus in Space follows directly, with mayhem and mutiny, at the opening of a manned space station, which Peter and talented friends helped build. Further hassles ensue during his training for space haulage work: obstructive bureaucrats, crooked suppliers, murder attempts, and skillful sabotage. McCaffrey specializes in feel-good adventure SF, full of romance, warm friendships, and hearty meals. Somehow her villains never quite convince, though, and their evil deeds are so rapidly annulled that the story rarely builds up much suspense. Meanwhile, the orphan girl Amiriyah who's adopted into Peter's family has a mysterious, subtle talent of her own, one that we soon guess will change his life. Our young hero's ambitions foreshadow later far-future books in the series (beginning with The Rowan) in which "kinetics" hurl cargo across huge interstellar gulfs. While most people think his talent needs careful conservation, Peter has already teleported supplies to the moon and has secret plans for Mars, the asteroids, and the moons of Jupiter. It all makes for an agreeable, lightweight read. --David Langford, Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Customer Reviews (43)

A well crafted link.
Book arrived quickly and in good condition.The book was well written, revisiting many characters from "Pegasus in Flight".It neatly closes the gap between the Pegasus series and the Tower and the Hive series.I thoroughly enjoyed this and plan to reread the whole series from start to finish following the chronological order of the plot (as opposed to the order they were published).Recommended.

Tedious and Disappointing
I loved McCaffrey's "Dragon" series; enjoyed the "Brain Ships"; and found the first two "Pegasus" books (a third the length of this one) interesting. This one, however, was overlong and unbelievably tedious. It is a character-driven (not story-driven) book; a series of thinly-connected vignettes, apparently meant to spotlight the psychic personalities of whom the author seems overly enamored. This style is often seen in fanzine-writing (I know this because I've done it); but it is an indulgence less often seen in a writer this accomplished.

As a reader I was NOT enamored of these characters, who seemed superficially one-dimensional (for the number of pages allotted them!). The "villains" were positively cartoonish; and the circumstances of their "menace," unconvincing.A felon, convicted or heinous crimes against persons, "sentenced" to unsupervised "janitorial work" aboard a space station? Are you KIDDING me?!?No government could be that stupid -- not even a liberal one.

I didn't finish the book. Found myself speed-reading through the middle third, scanning down the middle of the pages hoping SOMETHING believable would happen; gave up on the final third. This was a waste of my time & money.

A great read if you're into SF...
but should be read after "Pegasus in Flight". As with the best of McCaffrey I finished the book too quickly - so reread it immediately!

The Talents make space travel practical
This is the longest and last (to date) volume of McCaffrey's "Saga of the Talents," published 27 years after the first (To Ride Pegasus), 10 after The Rowan, and a year after The Tower and the Hive (Rowan).Her objective was to tie together the chronologically earlier with the later books in the series, while still (as she points out in her Acknowledgments) trying to stay true to the parameters put in place when she wrote the first short story about the Talents in 1959.

In the late 21st Century, humanity is finally making serious attempts to colonize the stars--and none too soon, for Earth is overcrowded and many people live in miserable conditions in vast tenement blocks.Central to the space program are the "parapsychics," the 0.03% of the species who are born with special gifts--the empaths, telepaths, kinetics, precogs, and dozens of lesser talents.Among them is 15-year-old Peter Reidinger, who is a quadriplegic and an enormously powerful telekinetic: given a generator to get in "gestalt" with and draw power from, he can "toss" just about anything, regardless of its size, shape, or mass, to just about any destination, as long as he has a picture of that destination to focus on.He dreams of someday being able to hurl colony ships to distant systems, if he can only, like Archimedes, find "a place to stand"--for in this future the constraints of the speed of light mean that without instantaneous telekinetic transport, colonists must spend centuries in cryogenic suspension and colonies will quickly begin to lag technically behind the homeworld, with news and inventions unable to reach them any faster than that speed.Peter's foster sister Amareeyah has a special gift too, though it's not as showy as his and indeed takes a long time to be identified.

The first great test of Peter's powers comes when his friend Gen. Johnny Greene wangles invitations for him and two others of the Talented to the ceremony marking the inauguration of Padrugoi Space Station--a function for which everyone thought they'd been overlooked.As it turns out, they hadn't--the oversight was 100% deliberate--and it's only their presence that prevents the bitter and jealous Construction Manager, Ludmila Barchenka, from successfully fomenting a mutiny and seizing control of the facility.Because of the part he plays in this action, Peter gets a leg up into the space program--and finds that as his work takes him regularly to Padrugoi and the Moon, he's in peril from enemies old and new, including a couple of very nasty and well-connected figures from Pegasus in Flight.And all the while, as he grows older and his powers mature, he must also search for ways to make his dream come true.

McCaffrey inserts several links to the present in her story: two of her colony ships are the "Andre Norton" (named after the early sf writer who probably inspired most of the author's generation) and the "Arrakis;" Peter conscientiously does his daily "Reeve exercises" to keep muscle tone in his paralyzed body (the novel is dedicated to actor/activist Christopher "Superman" Reeve).And although her future Earth is now unified and at peace, terrorists remain a thorn in everyone's side.The book is lengthy and not notable for action, but given its purpose as stated, that's probably inevitable.Though I didn't like it as well as I have the Pern, Doona, or Brainship books, my deep interest in psychic powers guaranteed that I would find it interesting, and certainly it succeeds on its own terms.

Pegasus in Space
All books by Anne McCaffrey are amazing! She makes her characters real, not just words on a page. ... Read more

Product Description
"A felicitous combination of authors."
--Kirkus Reviews
Yanaba Maddock's short-lived career as a company spy had ended the moment the planet Petaybee and its people had adopted her as one of their own. Now she was dedicated to keeping Intergal from exploiting and wounding--or even killing--the world she had come to love. For Intergal persisted in denying that Petaybee was sentient, and nothing would stop it from stripping the ore-rich planet--sentient or not.
Only solid evidence would convince the company to leave the planet alone, and for all its sentience, Petaybee's communications were highly subjective; indeed, some outsiders seemed entirely immune to its voice. So Yana and her friends would have to find some other way to prove that the planet was worth more to the company alive than dead...
"POWER LINES is a strong, highly entertaining sequel...Nicely paced, with a tricky twist or two to keep it from getting too predictable, and some delightful characters."
--Locus
FIRST TIME IN PAPERBACK
... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

power lines
This booke takes up where powers that be ends. It is a good story about a community that pulls together to make the best of a hard life. They have found out it does not take riches to have a good life or to find someone to love.
It is a uplifting tail of a town that welcomes everyone even the people that they think means them harm and how they win most of them over.
The planet that lives and how it cares for everyone and how if protects its own.

power lines (petaybee book 2)
another great book...all McCaffrey's books are great and all get 4 to 5 stars from me.You cant miss when you buy any of her books.......I love them all
My favorites are the Dragon and the Companion books, though. But all keep you interested to the end.

Enjoyable!
I absolutly loved this book, it was one of those books you just can't put down. Its plot was stable and developed well, and was easy to follow. On a whole, I enjoyed the book and I can't wait to read the next one!

i LOVED this series
i personally loved this series. maybe its because i could relate to the story more easily than to a world of dragons, not that i didnt love the Dragonriders of Pern. however, Petaybee was different. I absolutely loved the series, although sometimes the plot is a little shakey and some parts of the story dont match others.

Not even close
Had to give this one a minimal rating to balance out the other reviewer.If that individual thought this was a gripping and emotionally powerful book, they must be 12 years old, or extraordinarily poorly-read.The plot development is clunky, the morality is ham-fisted, and the characters are one-dimensional.This is NOT McCaffrey's best work.In fact, it's the worst McCaffrey I've ever read.Do not buy this series.If you must try it, borrow it from your local public library. ... Read more

Product Description
On Vega III, Lady Nimisha Boynton-Rondymense loves the challenging world of her father, Lord Tionel, owner and principal starship designer of the famous Rondymense Ship Yards. Precociously gifted, Nimisha becomes his secret assistant--and, in the aftermath of a shocking tragedy, his chosen successor at the helm of the Ship Yards.

When Nimisha takes an experimental ship on a solo test flight, something goes horribly awry, marooning her light-years from home on a planet as deadly as it is beautiful. Now the ruthless members of a rival branch of the Rondymense family are given the chance they've been waiting for: to reclaim the Ship Yards by any means necessary.

Only Nimisha's ingenious child, Cuiva, stands in their way. But for how long? For just when her daughter needs her most, Nimisha is in a precarious situation herself--and unable to help. But Nimisha has never given up in her life--and she's not about to start now . . .Amazon.com Review
Parts of Nimisha's Ship are reminiscent of themelodramatic intrigue and romance among lords and ladies in AnneMcCaffrey's first SF novel, Restoree(1967). Here, though, danger and drama are downplayed while the courseof true love--plus the joy of friendship--moves to centerstage. Nimisha, heir to her mother's wealth and high status,tomboyishly prefers the spaceship yards of her absentee father. Shesneaks off to work with him and emerges as a gifted ship designer. Oneday, testing a splendid new space-yacht, she falls through a wormholeto a far-off region of the galaxy. This contains a planet ofunfriendly beasties--mostly leathery-winged avians, easily shot downby Nimisha's yacht AI--and stranded wormhole victims: a haggard humanparty easily put right by medical treatment, and midget aliens who areeasily befriended. Romance soon blooms for Nimisha, and she settlesdown to have the nicest human castaway's babies (twins, thentriplets). Meanwhile, rescue missions are on the way, one by the long,slow route and one by accidental wormhole encounter. Happy familyreunions follow, with a certain twinkly charm but no real suspense orsurprise. It's a comforting, unthreatening read: McCaffrey addictswill love it, but newcomers may prefer to start with her tougher,grittier SF adventures like the classic Dragonflight. --DavidLangford, Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Customer Reviews (50)

Nimisha's Ship
This book is of the usually Fine Quality of this author,she always gives her best .This is no exception

Vapid
"One" of the characters in this work is described as vapid. Rather, the entire work is insipid. This is 1950's sci-fi tarted up with a few female characters

"...................................."
Anne McCaffrey has done better. The book's heroine is perfect from the getgo, faces no challenges, and leads a perfect life(more or less). This work seems disjointed, leaving the possible culmination of a conflict with her sire's other child (Vestrin) in favor of a happily-ever-after-ending, literally on the opposite side of the galaxy. One must wonder if in the middle of writing it she decided to change the plot sructure, you can point to the spot where the two different elements diverge. I enjoyed it and have read it four times in the last six years, but it fails to compare to her other works. The only solace I find is in the possibility of another alien encounter in a sequel alluded to at the end with the mention of engine traces. Buy it, but don't count on it to enthral you.

A hopeless dog
Follows a too much of a formula; problems are solved far to easily; the baddies are stupid and lazy and fade from the scene early; there is not even a climax.There is a huge amount of potential in this story, but it bubbles into the ooze with nary a whimper.Don't waste your money.

Great Book!
I disagreed with many of the reviews already on this site; first of all, it would be nice to see a review from someone who could spell the name of the book/the main character correctly. In this recent novel by Anne McCaffrey,the main character is a lady of high birth, Nimisha. She is different from her peers in that she loves mechanical things and spends more time working with her father on ship design than with her mother and fashion. Of course, this is not an unusual premise for McCaffrey, however in this story she creates a new twist. After Nimisha's noted father passes away, she inherits his company to the anger of his son, who thought that he should have gotten it. She continues in his tradition, testing and creating ships, and eventually conceives a daughter. Soon after this, she gets stranded alone after an experimental flight goes wrong, and she must survive and try to get back home. Being Nimisha, she can't help exploring the planets around her while waiting to be rescued, and what she finds is truly terrific. Meanwhile, while Nimisha battles hostile planetary creatures and makes friends with some aliens, attempts are being made on her daughter's life in order to regain the company.
This complicated story definitely makes for an enjoyable read. Nimisha is a very complex and endearing character, easy to relate to. I never found this book boring or devoid of action, and the characters were all extremely believable. I highly recommend it, however some of the more hard-core science fiction fans may not be as interested in it as I was. ... Read more

Product Description
In the world of Pern, Harpers with great musical ability are held in extreme regard. This is why the young, mischievous Piemur carries himself with so much pride, for he sings like an angel. But when his voice begins to change, Piemur loses all confidence and questions his role within Harper Hall.

Incapable of singing, Piemur is sent on various errands by Masterharper Robinton, including the task of learning the complicated beats of the messenger drums, Piemur has no clue of the grand adventures that await him, and he'll need to find the courage within himself to survive. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (42)

just for the conclusion
So many reviews already, just wanted to add my rating to the overall score.

Third book in the series, since Menolly was only in some of this book I did not like it as much but they did conclude Menolly and Sebell's relationship so it was worth the read.

entertaining
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all.

Harper series
I loved all three of these books. I've read them over and over. I was disappointed the first time I read this one because I was expecting it to be about Menolly, but when I read it again later, I found the magic. It is a really good read! I would definitely suggest it to anyone, especially for those that are new to sci-fi fantasy.

good story, not as exciting as the first two in the trilogy
This book was not as exciting as the first two in the Harper Hall series.I really would have liked to read more about Menolly.And it was never really clear what happened with Piemur and his voice.Still overall, it was still a good book by the author.

Another popular dragon book
Riding dragons and Thread are again a part of the growing up of Piemur.
His antics get him in trouble with the other apprentices after his voice change makes a signal drummer of him.
It is a young person's fantasy that is good popular reading.
The very middle ages culture of Pern has a double star and new animals ( dragons)that can do short hyperspace jumps "between".
With telepathy between dragons and their masters it has the full compliment
of magic-science to make people happy reading it.
For me it is just a little bit too much and too easy
for real sci fi? ... Read more

Product Description
A best-selling fantasist presents the tale of Jamas Tighe, an embattled young king with a foolish heart, and his right-hand cat, Niffy, an extraordinary feline who tries to save Jamas from his circle of enemies. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

No One Noticed The Cat
What a fun book!! I loved this one. The plot is busy and lots of action occurs. But the cat was always present in the background.
The cat notices everything and everyone. Of course, there is an evil one and he was unaware of the cat's talents. The cat manages some
trickery of its own and thwarts the evil plot.

The kids will like this book. I certainly did. It will put a smile on your face. Of course, there is enough suspense to make things interesting. This has made a good addition to my McCaffery collection. It is easy to read.

Sara Howard, Author of "Something Funny Happened on The Way to The Moon" and "The Biggest Explosions in The Universe".

Cute, good read
I enjoyed reading this book, which I got from the library. It didn't take me long to finish it which is a plus in my book. It seemed aimed for the teen audience but even as an adult I thought it had a good story and engaging characters.

A surprising little book
This book is so different to anything I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure, romance and fantasy with the very unusual cat.

great read
I really enjoyed this book. The character development and storyline were quite good.I have read all of the Pern books and this was a very pleasant departure from that series.I hope there are more like it in the future

Nice quiet story
This is a cute little book with a story line that I wish McCaffery had made into a book! It is well written, but not quite up to McCaffery's usual action filled novels. ... Read more

Product Description
HOW CAN ONE GIRL SAVE AN ENTIRE WORLD?

To the nobles who live in Benden Weyr, Lessa is nothing but a ragged kitchen girl. For most of her life she has survived by serving those who betrayed her father and took over his lands. Now the time has come for Lessa to shed her disguise—and take back her stolen birthright.

But everything changes when she meets a queen dragon. The bond they share will be deep and last forever. It will protect them when, for the first time in centuries, Lessa’s world is threatened by Thread, an evil substance that falls like rain and destroys everything it touches. Dragons and their Riders once protected the planet from Thread, but there are very few of them left these days. Now brave Lessa must risk her life, and the life of her beloved dragon, to save her beautiful world. . . .


From the Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (193)

fantasy classic
So many reviews already, just want to add my rating to the overall score.

Like the Dragonsong series, this book is what really got me into the Fantasy genre.I consider it a classic.Only really liked this book in the series although I did read a few more.

The beginning
This is the first in the popular long running series of PERN novels.

On a planet far from here a young woman named Leesa struggles to survive, waiting for something to happen so she reclaim her birthright.Years before a man came to her home and murdered her entire family as they slept.Only by chance had she survived, a terrified child fleeing in the dark to her last remaining refuge, the lair of the watchdragon.Over the years Leesa had done what she could to frustrate the man who had murdered her family and stolen all that they held dear, using a talent that she only slowly had come to realize as unusual.After all it had not been so unusual in her family.As she woke up cold one morning, ready to begin another day of toil and waiting little did she realize that by nightfall her life, and ultimately the fate of her planet would change drastically.

This novel introduces the reader to the PERN, a planet that was periodically ravaged by Thread, a lifeform that dropped from the skies, devouring living thing it came in contact with, leaving behind only bare, barren dirt and rock.In order to survive these decades long attacks the people of Pern had long ago formed a partnership with dragons.Their entire society was built on this relationship in a feudal system.The dragons and their riders lived in fortress like weyrs were supported by the farms and crafthalls surrounding them in return for the dragons destroying the Thread that would destroy them.This is a wonderful series with a complex group of interlocking stories about intriguing characters and thought provoking situations.McCaffery has put a great deal of thought into thoroughly planning her new world, the result of which is that the series is consistent and logical as the overall story arc builds.

Dragonflight
this book is an excellent book it kept me on edge with the suspense. Almost Impossible to put down. Wayne Frisbie

Spoiled brats demand tithes
The dragon riders of Pern are an arrogant aristocracy, set apart from the rest of the people on Pern by their psychic powers and their telepathic relationships with colossal fire breathing dragons who can teleport through space and time.They are too busy playing with their dragons to do any work, so they exact tithes of food from the Pernese commoners, and if the commoners don't pay up, the dragon riders just swoop down on them and take what they want.The dragon riders' rule is justified because every 200 or so years some animals from outer space attack Pern, and since the Pernese haven't yet invented gunpowder or the internal combustion engine, only the dragons can defend the planet.

The Pern books are very popular, and this one's individual segments won some Nebulas, and I suppose they are good wish fulfillment for young women who daydream about being princesses and wish they could talk to their cats, in the same way that the James Bond movies are good wish fulfillment for young men who love gadgets and daydream about running around shooting foreigners and seducing women.Personally, I found the style weak, the characters unengaging, the plot predictable, and the politics (I'm supposed to cheer on the Pernese IRS?) hard to take, and I stopped reading after the dragon sex scene around page 120.

OK Now, Probably Great In Its Time
It is difficult to review Dragonflight purely as a modern reading experience.

If I picked up the book with no context, I'd rate it 3 stars. It has some interesting ideas, but the characters are clichéd, the dragons are a little hackneyed, and the writing is painfully stilted in many places. Most painfully, the plot relies on half-baked time travel to resolve story tension. It's a fine short read but mostly forgettable.

However, Ms. McCaffrey compiled this book from novellas and short stories written from 1966 to 1968. These stories won her a Hugo award, the first female author to do so. As I understand the history of fantasy and sci-fi lit, this was a groundbreaking work -- in its ideas and its eroding of the gender barrier. Her vision of dragon races established patterns followed by countless authors. The plot and ideas in this work really were innovative. By all accounts, this was a 5-star book when it was written.

For me, the genre importance of this work and its originality elevate 3 stars to 4 stars. It's no Dune or Left Hand of Darkness, both written about the same time, but it's an adequate, fast read. ... Read more

Product Description
Her name was Killashandra Ree. And after ten grueling years of musical training, she was still without prospects. Until she heard of the mysterious Heptite Guild who could provide careers, security, and wealth beyond imagining. The problem was, few people who landed on Ballybran ever left. But to Killashandra the risks were acceptable....
... Read more

Customer Reviews (43)

Best book ever!
I have read this book many times over the years. I can read it and the character Killashandra is inspiring in her quest for her own personal best! Quite an enjoyable read.

One of my favorite sci-fi series
I haven't read these in a few years but remember really enjoying them. All in all this has everything I look for in a series: imaginative scenes with understandable explanations and interesting, likeable characters who you care what happens to. Also, it has an end. There are so many authors who keep a series alive long after they should have wrapped it up. If you enjoy sci-fi or fantasy with female leads, then give this series a try.
The first book opens us to the lead character, Killashandra Ree, and the very imaginative and detailed world of crystal singers. Killashandra was studying to be a professional stage singer on one planet, but when that lifelong dream is blown, she meets a crystal singer and decides to try to become one herself. Broken down, singers are basically miners of crystals used all over the galaxy for numerous things such as inter-galactic communications. Why they're called singers is that they have to be able to sing in perfect pitch in order to "tune in" to the crystal frequency so that it can be cut properly. This job is fraught with danger, the first of which is surviving the organism that invades their bodies as they land on the planet where the crystals are to be cut. The organism allows them to live on the planet and allows them a long life with a much slower ageing process (hundreds of years). Unfortunately, it cannot protect them from the memory-loss that all crystal singers suffer due to crystal exposure. They do get paid a ton, but of course, like a mining community of old, the "Guild" charges singers for all their equipment and multiple fees, making it hard for them to earn enough credits to get off planet and far enough away from the crystals' negative effects. Also, different crystals are worth different prices, depending on their color, cut and potential usefulness.
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
In the second book, we find Killashandra, now an established "singer", sent to another planet to install some type of crystal for producing musical sound (an enormous concert organ which is used by the planet's government in a diabolical way to control the citizenry). She's kidnapped by rebels on the planet and meets Lars Dahl, the series' primary love interest. I really don't remember all the book specifics on this one, but I remember really enjoying the book as well as the developing romance.
*** MAJOR SPOILER ALERT ***
In the last book Killashandra and Lars have been cutting crytals together for years (as in hundreds, I think). He has kept an electronic journal which reminds him of things so he can minimize the memory damage of the crystal. She has not. You think, "OMG! How sad! Oh no!", quite a bit throughout this book. It can be hokey at times, but also beautiful. I warned of spoilers, but I will not give away the ending.

Great book
I absolutely love this book and I'm so glad that I was able to get it.

If Doctor Who could meet anyone in the Universe...
I would want it to be Killashandra Ree.

What a strong female character. Sure, she starts out as being a bit of a brat, but her character grows and matures throughout the series into a wonderfully strong, independentand competent person. This is still one of my favorite sci-fi collections. The concept of Ballybran Crystal and a job as a "cutter" was just so inspired. When I was younger I SO wanted to go to Ballybran.

Engaging Sci Fi- Sheer Joy
I absolutely love this book.I'm already a fan of Anne McCaffrey from her Pern series, but I think this trilogy is even better.My favorite of the trilogy is this book, the first of the series.In this book we learn what the Crystal Singers are as Killashandra, the lead (female) character enters the Guild after failing to become a musician.This is sci-fi at it's best - fast-paced, interesting, fanciful, future-looking, and most important, it contemplates real issues.In the midst of an engaging story that is easy to escape in, the author challenges us to think about real dilemmas.For example, a side effect of "singing crystal" is extraordinary longevity and loss of memory.I found myself thinking, "do events still exist if we can't remember them?"and "how will our lives be affected if we have extraordinary longevity but our friends and family do not?"

I read this book as a teenage boy 2 decades ago, and just re-read it last week.I find that good works of fiction affect me in different ways at different stages of my life, and Crystal Singer was no exception.

As an adult, I understand Killashandra's challenges, and understand her relationships more fully than I did as a teenager.As a teenager, I was "along with her," discovering Crystal Singing for the first time.Her entry into the Heptite Guild had many parallels with my entry into West Point.For example, the Guild appears to discourage new recruits from joining, but this is actually a subtle psychological technique to recruit a certain type of individual.(West Point does the same thing)This made the story, despite the futuristic setting, more realistic.

Anne McCaffrey develops the character of Killashandra in a brutally honest way - we love her and also see her making mistakes.This is engaging Science Fiction - I think McCaffrey doesn't get enough critical acclaim - she's considered "pulp" sci fi by many but in my opinion she's right up there with Isacc Asimov and Harlan Ellison.She's not in the same league as Frank Herbert, but no one is. ... Read more

Product Description
The second in the Dragonriders of Pern trilogy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (60)

Wonderful book- but Kindle Ed. has too many errors
The multitude of typos in the Kindle edition is extremely annoying. If I wasn't already familiar with the book, and re-reading it, I might not be so willing to keep reading. Four stars for Dragonquest, negative stars for whomever botched the Kindle edition.

Sometimes solutions bring different problems
It is seven turns after the events of DRAGONFLIGHT, as this, the second book in the DRAGONRIDERS OF PERN series.Lessa's desperate efforts to save her planet have solved the short term problem.The Oldtimer dragons and riders have come forward to save the planet from the ravages of Thread but their entry into modern day Pernese society has caused problems of a different sort.F'Lar, as the only present day Weyr Leader is in the unenviable position of mediating between the two faction.His wife, Lessa has problems of her own.When she left her family's Hold in the hands of the infant Jaxom she did not realize how torn the decision would leave her but what choice did she have?It would not be possible to be both a Dragonrider and a Lord Holder would it?Young Jaxom was doing well under the diligent care of his guardian and would someday make an excellent Lord Holder, regardless of what his own inclinations might be.Meanwhile there was Thread to fight, and an ever growing population straining Pernese society to its limits.

This is the second book in the series.Those new to these stories should begin at the beginning (DRAGONFLIGHT).McCaffery has crafted an intricate set of stories with a strong overall story arc of interlocking tales involving a vast array of characters that will only truly appreciate if the novels are read in order.

great author
Anne McCaffrey is the quintessential writer of fantasy books pertaining to dragons.These books are always wonderful, well written, and perfectly characterized.All of her series are great but the ones that take place on Pern are the best of all.

In Pursuit of the Power to Fly Free
In this second book of the Dragonriders of Pern series, F'lar, Weyrleader of Benden Weyr, and his Weyrwoman, Lessa, struggle with the Oldtimers, the five weyrs brought forward from 400 years previous to fight Thread. The Oldtimers come from a much more hidebound, traditional era when Thread had been an omnipresent threat and dragonriders had commanded unquestioning respect. In the current era, an absence of Threadfall for 400 years had allowed more land to be cultivated (which must now be protected from Thread), the population to expand, and customs to change. The demands of the Oldtimers now seem unreasonable and their attitude, overbearing and obnoxious. They are out of sync with current thought and customs, and not cooperative with Benden, the only weyr that had continued to be occupied during the long Interval between Threadfalls. F'lar must find a way to smooth over the conflicts between the Oldtimers, Benden, and the current Holders and Crafters of Pern, while obtaining the cooperation needed to effectively fight Thread.

Meanwhile, the accidental find of a sealed room full of artifacts from the long-distant founders of Pern yields a "distance viewer" that reveals that the so-called "Red Star", the source of Thread, is actually a small planet with an erratic orbit that periodically brings it close to Pern. Once the Lords Holder see this planet, they begin demanding that the dragonriders go there and destroy Thread at its source. But, of course, they are all unaware of the dangers of any space flight, let alone one to such a hostile planet. Will F'lar, or his half brother, F'mor, yield to the Holders' pressure? And if they do, will the rider who makes the trip survive?

This is an excellent and exciting sequel to the first book in the series.

Audio Books
I really enjoy Audio books and this book was a fine example.the narative was clear and of course it was a great book.My only complaint would be that the next books in the series are not all available on CD.if you start a series it would be nice to be able to continue in the same mode (CD) ... Read more