The Light in Exile
An agrarian colony, a mysterious agent, and an ancient alien race consumed by loss. A beautifully crafted, character-driven science fiction novel that balances cosmic stakes with intimate, believable lives—despite some languid pacing.
An Exchange of Hostages
A compassionate surgeon is forced to train as a state-sanctioned torturer in a dystopian future. Brilliant psychological characterization initially had me hooked, but an abrupt turn toward sexual sadism made this a book I couldn't continue.
The Guardsman
An imperial guard torn between loyalty and rebellion sounds promising. Unfortunately, 75 pages of lazy sexism, muscular lionmen, and painfully elaborate mirror descriptions were more than enough.