Liaden universe

The Liaden universe (/liːˈeɪdɛn/ lee-AY-den or /liːˈeɪdən/) is the setting for a series of science fiction stories written by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller. The series blends elements of space opera with romance, intrigue and wizardry.

As of July 2023, the series comprises 25 novels and 33 chapbooks (the stories within them now available as ebooks or in collections).

Setting

The Liaden Universe is a complex setting encompassing multiple universes and millennia. The series primarily focuses on Clan Korval, a significant Liaden house known for its telepathic abilities and military strength. The narrative is set in the far future, within a "decrystallizing" galaxy once inhabited by humanity. The changes occurring in the galaxy have resulted in humanity's diaspora dividing into three primary sub-races: Terran, Liaden, and Yxtrang.

Key elements of the Liaden Universe include:

• **Clan Korval:** A powerful and influential Liaden clan.
• **Liaden Society:** A complex society with a strong military tradition and a unique caste system.
• **Decrystallizing Galaxy:** The changing galaxy serving as the backdrop for the series.
• **Human Diaspora:** The division of the human race into Terran, Liaden, and Yxtrang sub-races.
• **Telepathy:** An ability common among Liadens.

Recurring themes in the series include family and loyalty, military strategy, moral ambiguity, and exploration. The stories feature diverse alien cultures and advanced technology, often exploring themes of political intrigue within the Liaden Empire and interactions with various alien factions. Interstellar exploration is a prominent element, with characters journeying to distant worlds, encountering new cultures, and facing unforeseen challenges.

Series Overview

The first two books in the seven-book "Agent of Change" sequence were published in 1988. These books depict the conflict between Clan Korval and the "Department of the Interior." While the department's headquarters on Liad is destroyed by the end of the sequence, its remnants continue to pose challenges for Clan Korval in later novels.

The eighth novel, Balance of Trade, is a prequel set 275 years before the end of the "Agent of Change" sequence. It introduces Jethri Gobelyn, a young Terran trader adopted by a Liaden Master Trader. A sequel, Trade Secret, was published in 2013, followed by Fair Trade in 2022.

The ninth novel, Crystal Soldier (2005), is set even earlier and begins "The Great Migration Duology," recounting the story of Cantra yos'Phelium, who led the initial exodus to Liad, and her partner, M Jela. The sequel, Crystal Dragon, was published in 2006.

Publication History

Following the publication of the first three books (Agent of Change, Conflict of Honors, and Carpe Diem in 1988–1989), the authors were informed that sales were insufficient to warrant continuing the series. However, the books had gained a following on the Usenet group rec.arts.sf.written and its FAQ.

After gaining Internet access, the authors were surprised by the demand for a continuation and the established fan-given title for the next book: Plan B. They published several chapbooks and wrote Plan B (1999), followed by three more books to complete the "Agent of Change" sequence. Numerous short stories provide background information and fill gaps between novels.

The series has had multiple publishers, starting with Del Rey, then Meisha Merlin, followed by Ace Books, and currently Baen Books. As of 2022, the series is ongoing, with numerous novels, chapbooks, and short stories published, and more novels planned. All novels are available as ebooks.

Books in the series

Novels

Timeline chart

Novels listed in order of internal chronology:

The Great Migration Duology

• Crystal Soldier (2005, ISBN 1-59222-083-5)
• Crystal Dragon (2006, ISBN 1-59222-087-8)

Liaden novels featuring Jethri Gobelyn

• Balance of Trade (2004, ISBN 1-59222-020-7)
• Trade Secret (2013, ISBN 9781451639292)
• Fair Trade (2022, ISBN 9781982126087)
• Trade Lanes (Forthcoming)

Notes on novels

• Fledgling was initially serialized online (2007) and later published in hardcover (2009, ISBN 1-4391-3287-9).
• Saltation was serialized online (2008) and later published in hardcover (2010, ISBN 1-4391-3345-X).
• Ghost Ship (2011, ISBN 978-14391-3455-9)
• Dragon Ship (2012, ISBN 978-1451637984)
• Necessity's Child (2013)
• Dragon in Exile (2015, ISBN 978-1-4767-8071-9)

Thirtieth Anniversary Editions

• Agent of Change (2018, ISBN 978-1481483643)
• Conflict of Honors (2019, ISBN 978-1982124205)
• Carpe Diem (2020, ISBN 978-1982124441)

Forthcoming

• Diviner's Bow (Expected April 2025)

Omnibus volumes

See main article: Liaden universe omnibus editions

Short stories

See main article: Liaden universe short stories

Factions

The Liaden universe features humans divided into Terrans, Liadens, and Yxtrang, as well as non-human races such as Clutch Turtles, Cats, Norbears, and Ssussdriads (Trees).

Liaden

Liadens are generally shorter than Terrans, often with golden skin. Their culture emphasizes melant'i, a concept similar to personal honor. Liaden society is clan-based, and they practice contract marriages rather than lifemating. Some Liadens are trained as Scouts, explorers who are sometimes viewed with suspicion by isolationists.

Terran

Terrans originate from Terra. The series hints at a complex history for Terra, possibly including previous iterations of the planet. The Juntavas, an organized crime group, play a significant role in Terran society. Several Terran colony worlds exist, some technologically advanced, others having regressed.

Independent A.I.s

The series features several independent AIs, including Jeeves, Tocohl Lorlin, Bechimo (a sentient spaceship), Admiral Bunter, and Disian. These AIs often demonstrate advanced capabilities and play pivotal roles in the narrative.

Yxtrang

Yxtrang are typically larger than Terrans and are known for their warrior culture. Their origins are linked to genetically engineered soldiers from humanity's past.

Clutch Turtles

Clutch Turtles are a large, long-lived, turtle-like species known for their slow movements and powerful abilities, including manipulating energy through song.

Cats

Cats in the Liaden universe possess enhanced intelligence and sometimes exhibit paranormal abilities.

Norbears

Norbears are small, furry mammals with empathic abilities.

Trees (Ssussdriads)

Ssussdriads are a sentient tree species. A prominent individual is Jelaza Kazone, a large tree residing at Clan Korval's primary residence.

Concepts

Melant'i

Melant'i is a central concept in Liaden culture, encompassing personal honor, social roles, and appropriate behavior in various situations.

Bows and modes of speech

Liadens utilize formal (High Liaden) and informal (Low Liaden) modes of speech. They also employ complex bows that reflect social standing and the relationship between individuals.

Space travel

Space travel in the Liaden universe is primarily achieved through "jumping," using various technologies. Ships range from small courier vessels to large trading ships and passenger liners. Pilots are highly regarded and are categorized into different classes based on their skills and experience.

Fan fiction

Lee and Miller do not permit fan fiction set in the Liaden universe.

External links

• Official website
• Liaden universe series listing at the Internet Speculative Fiction Database