The Book of Athyra (contains both Athyra & Orca novels) by Steven Brust

I think combining these two novels under one cover was a good idea. Athyra would not have ranked high as a stand alone. I’m not quite sure why but I didn’t care nearly as much for it as I have the rest of the books. Vlad spent too much time in introspection, I think. Orca got back to having a little more action and interplay between characters. I found it much more entertaining. There are quite a few references to the previous stories so I would try diligently to read the preceding books prior to these two. Orca contains little tidbits that very innocuously tie the series tighter. I also liked the easily seen comparision to the predatory practices of many of today’s corporations so clearly shown in the sub-prime mortgage debacle. Combined I have to recommend you read this book.

Body of work of Steven Brust

Review of Athyra: http://www.sfreviews.net/athyra.html

Review of Orca: http://www.sfreviews.net/orca.html

Web site: http://dreamcafe.com/