Jack Vance

Jack Vance is one of the most remarkable talents to ever grace the world of science fiction. His unique, stylish voice h… Jack Vance is one of the most remarkable talents to ever grace the world of science fiction. His unique, stylish voice has been beloved by generations of readers. One of his enduring classics is his 1964 novel, The Dying Earth, and its sequels--a fascinating, baroque tale set on a far-future Earth, under a giant red sun that is soon to go out forever. This omnibus volume comprised all four books in the series The Dying Earth The Eyes of the Overworld Cugel's Saga Rialto the Marvellous A must-read for every Science Fiction fan. At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied. read more

The Elder Isles - an ancient land where chivalry and the realm of fairie exist side by side. A land of mystery, strange… The Elder Isles - an ancient land where chivalry and the realm of fairie exist side by side. A land of mystery, strange beauty, high adventure and arcane magic. Kings are at war, opposing magicians devise ever more cunning stratagems. It is a land where princesses and changelings both can become embroiled in political rivalries and the quest for the grail. The Gollancz Black Books have proved to be an immensely successful formula for getting well loved stories into the hands of people who also love well made books. Jack Vance's Complete Lyonesse is a perfect addition to the series and contains Madouc the novel for which Vance won the World Fantasy Award. read more

Step into the unparalleled realms crafted by a master of science fantasy and sword & sorcery. Here, intrepid heroes navi… Step into the unparalleled realms crafted by a master of science fantasy and sword & sorcery. Here, intrepid heroes navigate worlds where ancient magic entwines with the remnants of advanced civilizations, and bizarre beings populate vibrant, dangerous landscapes. From cynical sorcerers to clever adventurers, these characters face a myriad of challenges, often with a wry wit and a keen intellect. Prepare for tales that blend thrilling escapades with intriguing dilemmas, all delivered with an inimitable style that is both humorous and profound. read more

Together for the first time in one omnibus edition--City of the Chasch, Servants of the Wankh, The Dirdir, and The Pnume… Together for the first time in one omnibus edition--City of the Chasch, Servants of the Wankh, The Dirdir, and The Pnume. Award-winning author Vance's exotic and complex world is filled with baroque landscapes, dastardly villains and warring aliens--all served up with grace and wonder. read more

Cugel the Clever, a self-serving rogue with an unfortunate knack for trouble, crosses the wrong sorcerer and finds himse… Cugel the Clever, a self-serving rogue with an unfortunate knack for trouble, crosses the wrong sorcerer and finds himself on a truly epic, if unwilling, journey. Banished to the frigid far north with a magical "Eye of the Overworld" forcibly implanted, Cugel must navigate a perilous, decadent dying Earth where archaic magic clashes with forgotten technology. His only path to freedom and vengeance is an arduous trek back to the Laughing Magician's fortress, collecting an elusive artifact along the way. Driven by pride and a burning desire for retribution, Cugel's often hilarious and always dangerous odyssey unfolds, proving that even a scoundrel can have a grand adventure. read more

On the vibrant planet Koryphon, the aristocratic Outkers cling to their decadent power, but a storm is brewing. Guided b… On the vibrant planet Koryphon, the aristocratic Outkers cling to their decadent power, but a storm is brewing. Guided by the enigmatic Gray Prince, the fierce Uldrans — the planet's rightful rulers — are poised to launch a daring rebellion. This is a struggle for the very soul of Koryphon, as ancient traditions clash with ruthless ambition, threatening to plunge the entire world into a brutal succession crisis. The fate of a people hangs on the outcome of a meticulously planned uprising, where political intrigue and cunning strategy are as vital as steel. read more

The Laughing Magician combines two of the most popular novels in Jack Vance's Dying Earth series. Both recount the adven… The Laughing Magician combines two of the most popular novels in Jack Vance's Dying Earth series. Both recount the adventures of Cugel, also called Cugel the Clever, forced by a mordant magician into a quest across an Earth of the far distant future. In this Rabelaisian picaresque, Cugel has only his wits -- and loose morals -- with which to survive a world teeming with tricksters, monsters, and magicians. Vance’s vivid, witty prose and rich imagination is combined with Stephen Fabian’s gorgeous art. read more

The second novel that features the scoundrel and trickster, Cugel. Again, Cugel tests wits with Iucounu and acquires rud… The second novel that features the scoundrel and trickster, Cugel. Again, Cugel tests wits with Iucounu and acquires rudimentary powers himself. read more

Journey into a universe where ancient magic collides with bewildering technology, and decadent civilizations cling to ex… Journey into a universe where ancient magic collides with bewildering technology, and decadent civilizations cling to existence on forgotten worlds. Across these myriad tales, cunning heroes and desperate adventurers navigate treacherous landscapes filled with arcane sorcery, bizarre creatures, and intricate social intrigues. Whether seeking forbidden knowledge, escaping perilous traps, or simply striving for survival, protagonists must outwit powerful enemies and unravel cosmic mysteries. This expansive treasury invites readers into a myriad of vibrant, dangerous worlds, showcasing a unique blend of sword-and-sorcery grit and far-future speculative wonder where wit is often the sharpest weapon. read more

Jack Vance is one of the most remarkable talents to ever grace the world of science fiction. His unique, stylish voice h… Jack Vance is one of the most remarkable talents to ever grace the world of science fiction. His unique, stylish voice has been beloved by generations of readers. One of his enduring classics is his 1964 novel, The Dying Earth, and its sequels--a fascinating, baroque tale set on a far-future Earth, under a giant red sun that is soon to go out forever. This omnibus volume comprised all four books in the series The Dying Earth The Eyes of the Overworld Cugel's Saga Rialto the Marvellous A must-read for every Science Fiction fan. read more

Cugel the Sunderer, a rogue and petty thief, finds his life irrevocably altered after a disastrous attempt to plunder th… Cugel the Sunderer, a rogue and petty thief, finds his life irrevocably altered after a disastrous attempt to plunder the hoard of the mighty sorcerer Iucounu. As punishment, Cugel is cursed with a sentient, parasitic creature called a Spatterlight, embedded in his liver and compelling him on a perilous quest. He must journey across the bizarre, decaying landscapes of the far-future Dying Earth to recover the mythical Eyes of the Overworld for his captor. Through a series of misadventures, he navigates treacherous civilizations, encounters strange beings, and outwits dangerous sorcerers, all while struggling against his own opportunistic nature and the constant threat of the Spatterlight consuming him. His very life and freedom hang in the balance, dependent on completing this impossible mission. read more

Science fiction-roman.

Kirth Gersen, a man shaped by a lifelong pursuit of vengeance, embarks on his most perilous hunt yet for the final archi… Kirth Gersen, a man shaped by a lifelong pursuit of vengeance, embarks on his most perilous hunt yet for the final architect of his family’s demise. His target is Howard Alan Treesong, the last of the notorious "Demon Princes" – a cunning and cruel mastermind whose depraved intellect and twisted sense of humor make him a uniquely formidable foe. Navigating a sprawling, intricate galaxy filled with exotic cultures and dangerous schemes, Gersen must employ every ounce of his anti-heroic cunning to corner the elusive tyrant. As the quest for ultimate retribution draws to its fated climax, the boundaries between justice and obsession blur, promising a confrontation that will determine not only Gersen's destiny but the legacy of the Demon Princes themselves. read more

Tschai, the setting for the quartet of novels which commences with The Chasch (originally City of the Chasch), is a plan… Tschai, the setting for the quartet of novels which commences with The Chasch (originally City of the Chasch), is a planet inhabited by a variety of alien species coexisting uneasily with humans - the Chasch, the Wannek, the Dirdir and the Pnume. All Jack Vance titles in the SFGateway use the author's preferred texts, as restored for the Vance Integral Edition (VIE), an extensive project masterminded by an international online community of Vance's admirers. In general, we also use the VIE titles, and have adopted the arrangement of short story collections to eliminate overlaps. read more

Thank you, Mr. Vance / Dean Koontz -- Preface / Jack Vance -- The True vintage of Erzuine Thale / Robert Silverberg -- G… Thank you, Mr. Vance / Dean Koontz -- Preface / Jack Vance -- The True vintage of Erzuine Thale / Robert Silverberg -- Grolion of Almery / Matthew Hughes -- The Copsy Door / Terry Downling -- Caulk the witch-chaser / Liz Williams -- Inescapable / Mike Resnick -- Abrizonde / Walter Jon Williams -- The Traditions of Karzh / Paula Volsky -- The Final quest of the Wizard Sarnod / Jeff Vandermeer -- The Green bird / Kage Baker -- The Last golden thread / Phyllis Eisenstein -- An Incident at Uskvesk / Elizabeth Moon -- Sylgarmo's Proclamation / Lucius Shepard -- The Lamentably comical tragedy (or the laughably tragic comedy) of Lixal Laoavee / Tad Williams -- Guyal the Curator / John C. Wright -- The Good magician / Glenn Cook -- The Return of the Fire Witch / Elizabeth Hand -- The Collegeum of Mauge / Byron Tetrick -- Evillo the Cunning / Tanith Lee -- The Guiding nose of Ulf?nt Banderoz / Dan Simmons -- Frogskin cap / Howard Waldrop -- A Night at Tarn House / George R.R. Martin -- An Invocation of incuriosity / Neil Gaiman. read more

On a world almost entirely covered by a vast ocean, humanity lives a precarious existence atop immense, sentient plant-c… On a world almost entirely covered by a vast ocean, humanity lives a precarious existence atop immense, sentient plant-creatures called Kragen. These living islands provide everything their inhabitants need, but demand absolute obedience and punish any dissent with brutal finality. Young Sklar Hast, a free-thinking outlier, chafes under this rigid, god-like dominion. When a mysterious, alien entity threatens the Kragen and the fragile human settlements, Sklar sees an opportunity to break free from generations of servitude. The fate of humanity hinges on his courage to challenge both their oppressive masters and an unknown enemy to lead his people toward an uncertain but potentially liberating future. read more

Science fiction-roman.

Across the vast Alastor Cluster, thousands of planets hum under the distant, all-seeing gaze of the supreme Connatic. Wh… Across the vast Alastor Cluster, thousands of planets hum under the distant, all-seeing gaze of the supreme Connatic. When a seemingly isolated incident threatens the delicate balance of one such world, an intrepid individual finds themselves drawn into a mystery that spans sectors. They must navigate a labyrinth of alien customs, political intrigue, and hidden dangers, all while striving to uncover a truth that could either shatter their society or bring unforeseen freedom. The fate of their home, and perhaps even the Connatic's meticulous order, hangs precariously in the balance. read more

On the brutal, aristocratic planet of Shann, life is cheap and a mysterious power known as the Anome issues death warran… On the brutal, aristocratic planet of Shann, life is cheap and a mysterious power known as the Anome issues death warrants for severe crimes, enforced by deadly executants. Young nobleman Gart suddenly finds himself condemned by the Anome for a murder he did not commit, thrusting him into a desperate struggle for survival. Hunted relentlessly, he must navigate a labyrinthine society of feuding houses and hidden plots, not only to evade his grim fate but to uncover the true culprit behind the framing and challenge the very system that seeks his life. read more

Step into the mesmerizing worlds of Jack Vance, where the boundaries between ancient sorcery and advanced technology blu… Step into the mesmerizing worlds of Jack Vance, where the boundaries between ancient sorcery and advanced technology blur. This collection invites readers into a diverse array of fantastical realms, from a peculiar land shaped by arcane forces to distant planets where humanity battles for its very existence against alien threats. Witness cunning heroes and enigmatic sorcerers as they navigate impossible dilemmas and face breathtaking challenges, each story exploring the profound consequences of power, survival, and the unknown. What truly lies at stake is the resilience of the human spirit in a universe both wondrous and perilous. read more

On a distant, war-torn planet, human clans known as Masters have long bred and ridden fearsome, engineered creatures cal… On a distant, war-torn planet, human clans known as Masters have long bred and ridden fearsome, engineered creatures called dragons into battle. Joaz Banbeck, a Dragon Master, leads his people in a cyclical war against the Phags, technologically advanced aliens who raid for human slaves. As the next devastating invasion looms, Joaz faces an impossible task: defend his civilization from an overwhelming enemy with outdated tactics. He must innovate new ways to master his formidable creatures and defy tradition, or risk his entire world falling to enslavement and annihilation. The future of humanity rests on his ingenuity and courage in this age-old struggle. read more

When Schaine Madduc returned to Koryphon after five years in space, her home planet was not as she left it. The several… When Schaine Madduc returned to Koryphon after five years in space, her home planet was not as she left it. The several intelligent species that had lived so long in a sort of symbiotic harmony were at each other's throats. The humanoid Uldra were united in rebellion against the human land-holding community of which Schaine was part. The Uldra revolutionary leader and catalyst--the Gray Prince Jorjol--was actually an Uldra fostered in Schaine's own home, and upon whom Schaine had exerted a profound influence. An influence far more profound than Schaine would have thought possible. An influence possibly powerful enough to smash her home, her family, and her entire way of life! read more

Kirth Gersen, having brought arch-villain Malagate the Woe to justice, sets his sights on Kokor Hekkus, another of the D… Kirth Gersen, having brought arch-villain Malagate the Woe to justice, sets his sights on Kokor Hekkus, another of the Demon Princes. The name Kokor Hekkus, which means "killing machine" in the language of the planet Thamber, does not refer to Hekkus's own predilection for homicide, but to his fondness for horrific and murderous devices, including the giant robotic executioner that first gained him his nickname. As a boy, Kirth Gersen survived a raid on his home planet masterminded by five interstellar crime lords known as the Demon Princes. This five-novel sequence recounts his carefully-planned and implacable revenge. In this, the second volume, his target is Kokor Hekkus, better known as the Killing Machine. All Jack Vance titles in the SFGateway use the author's preferred texts, as restored for the Vance Integral Edition (VIE), an extensive project masterminded by an international online community of Vance's admirers. In general, we also use the VIE titles, and have adopted the arrangement of short story collections to eliminate overlaps. read more

In a far-future galaxy of decadent civilizations and bizarre alien worlds, the legendary Kirth Gersen has spent a lifeti… In a far-future galaxy of decadent civilizations and bizarre alien worlds, the legendary Kirth Gersen has spent a lifetime hunting down the five notorious Demon Princes who annihilated his family. With four brought to justice, only the most elusive and insidious remains: Asutra, a master of disguise and deception. Gersen must employ every ounce of his intellect, cunning, and resources to penetrate Asutra's labyrinthine deceptions and deliver a final, hard-won reckoning to the galaxy's ultimate evil. read more

In the days when science did seem to promise all the answers, Vance wrote tales set in the far future of his acclaimed D… In the days when science did seem to promise all the answers, Vance wrote tales set in the far future of his acclaimed Dying Earth. His alien worlds had ample room for exotic races, travelers, traders and scoundrels, and even space pirates. Here are sixteen of those early space adventures, spanning the years 1946 to 1956. read more

Rhialto, one of the most elegant and powerful sorcerers of the far-future, dying Earth, finds his refined existence shat… Rhialto, one of the most elegant and powerful sorcerers of the far-future, dying Earth, finds his refined existence shattered by a malicious accusation. Envious rivals, the dread Gray Sorcerers, conspire to discredit him through arcane trial and public humiliation, threatening his reputation and very life. To clear his name and reassert his rightful place among the magical elite, Rhialto must embark on a series of perilous and bizarre quests. Facing ancient enigmas, unpredictable forces, and the peculiar inhabitants of a twilight world, he must rely on his formidable wit and unique brand of magic to survive and reclaim his marvelous distinction. read more

When an exploratory mission from Earth is destroyed, lone survivor Adam Reith awakens on a bewildering, far-flung planet… When an exploratory mission from Earth is destroyed, lone survivor Adam Reith awakens on a bewildering, far-flung planet. This world, one of many 'lost moons' in the vast Gaean Reach, is dominated by four ancient, intelligent alien species, each with their own complex societies and human sub-species. Stranded light-years from home, Reith must navigate a perilous landscape of shifting alliances, deadly creatures, and enigmatic cultures, all while pursued by hostile forces determined to prevent his escape. His desperate quest for a way back to Earth becomes a relentless fight for survival and a journey across one of the universe's most dangerous frontiers. read more

Across the star-spanning Gaean Reach, a shadowy figure known only as The Faceless Man plagues countless worlds, leaving… Across the star-spanning Gaean Reach, a shadowy figure known only as The Faceless Man plagues countless worlds, leaving behind a wake of inexplicable chaos and profound mystery. A determined agent, renowned for his relentless pursuit of justice, takes on the impossible task of unmasking this elusive villain. As he navigates through bizarre alien cultures and decadent human societies, he must wield advanced technology and shrewd deduction to track a foe who can seemingly appear and vanish at will. Uncovering the truth behind this master of disguise and preventing further devastation becomes a desperate race against time, threatening the stability of entire civilizations. read more

Journey through a kaleidoscope of strange worlds where ancient spells and futuristic marvels collide. Wily adventurers a… Journey through a kaleidoscope of strange worlds where ancient spells and futuristic marvels collide. Wily adventurers and intrepid explorers face arcane forces, dangerous alien species, and the enigmatic power of elemental magic, often centered around unique magical artifacts. From verdant, mystical planets to the twilight of dying civilizations, each tale plunges readers into high-stakes conflicts where survival hinges on cunning, courage, and a deep understanding of forces both scientific and supernatural. Discover the true nature of "green magic" as characters navigate bizarre landscapes and confront destinies intertwined with unfathomable powers. read more

In a world teetering on the brink of ruin, where ancient magic clashes with desperate ambition, a resourceful individual… In a world teetering on the brink of ruin, where ancient magic clashes with desperate ambition, a resourceful individual finds themselves ensnared in a perilous web of intrigue. Facing cunning sorcerers and ruthless foes, they must navigate treacherous lands and forgotten ruins to uncover a secret that could either doom their fate or secure a fleeting chance at survival. With every ally a potential betrayer and every shadow hiding new dangers, the line between hero and villain blurs. Only the most cunning will emerge from these desperate days with their life—or their soul—intact. read more

Plinis, a young man from the peaceful, isolated world of Miro, lives beneath the colossal, sentient Tree that defines hi… Plinis, a young man from the peaceful, isolated world of Miro, lives beneath the colossal, sentient Tree that defines his entire civilization. When his beloved Maur is abducted by the brutal alien Chasch, Plinis must break free from Miro's ancient traditions and venture into the vast, unknown galaxy. He embarks on a perilous quest across alien planets, encountering advanced technologies and strange societies, all in a desperate attempt to rescue Maur from her captors. His journey will not only test his courage but could also forever change his perception of his home and himself. read more

Big Planet is Jack Vance's first major sf novel, and in the words of the Encyclopedia of SF, "provided an sf model for t… Big Planet is Jack Vance's first major sf novel, and in the words of the Encyclopedia of SF, "provided an sf model for the planetary romance which has been of significant use for forty years". The huge world of the title is home to a range of colourfully detailed and imaginative human societies, which Vance explores with the zest and humour which are hallmarks of his work. All Jack Vance titles in the SFGateway use the author's preferred texts, as restored for the Vance Integral Edition (VIE), an extensive project masterminded by an international online community of Vance's admirers. In general, we also use the VIE titles, and have adopted the arrangement of short story collections to eliminate overlaps. Big Planet was cut almost in half for its first publication, but sadly the excised pages are lost. read more

Marooned on the strange planet Tschai, Adam Reith agreed to lead an expedition to return the princess, the Flower of Cat… Marooned on the strange planet Tschai, Adam Reith agreed to lead an expedition to return the princess, the Flower of Cath, to her homeland halfway around the globe. Monsters of land and sea lay before them, and beings both human and alien who might rob, kill, or enslave them. read more

A determined young cadet is thrust into an intergalactic conflict when ruthless "Vandals of the Void" begin their destru… A determined young cadet is thrust into an intergalactic conflict when ruthless "Vandals of the Void" begin their destructive campaign across the star systems. These enigmatic space pirates, wielding strange technology and leaving a trail of chaos, threaten to dismantle the fragile peace of the cosmos by targeting vital resources and civilian populations. Driven by a desperate need for answers and justice, the cadet must navigate a dangerous realm of alien wonders and advanced starships. He races against time to expose the vandals' true motives and protect the future of interstellar civilization before all is lost to the encroaching darkness. read more

In a realm where the sun is a dying ember and forgotten sorcery gleams amidst the ruins of lost civilizations, a singula… In a realm where the sun is a dying ember and forgotten sorcery gleams amidst the ruins of lost civilizations, a singular figure asserts his identity. This is I, an individual of cunning intellect and questionable morals, who navigates a landscape rife with powerful archons, bizarre cults, and ancient technological wonders. Faced with an impending cataclysm that threatens to erase the last vestiges of true magic and knowledge, he embarks on a perilous quest. His journey will pit him against cosmic entities and the decadent remnants of society, all while seeking to preserve his own peculiar existence and perhaps, incidentally, the very fabric of his strange world. read more

In a verdant realm where the raw power of nature magic intertwines with the enigmatic remnants of a forgotten scientific… In a verdant realm where the raw power of nature magic intertwines with the enigmatic remnants of a forgotten scientific age, a young, nature-attuned individual discovers a looming threat to their world's lifeblood. As the land's ancient green magic begins to mysteriously wane, they must embark on a desperate quest through a landscape teeming with both vibrant life and inexplicable, crumbling technology. To uncover the source of this decay and restore the delicate balance, they must confront powerful, esoteric forces that could either revitalize their dying world or plunge it into eternal desolation. The very soul of existence hangs by a thread, waiting for a champion to rekindle its green heart. read more

The city of Clarges is a near-utopia, surrounded by barbarism throughout the rest of the world. Abundant resources and t… The city of Clarges is a near-utopia, surrounded by barbarism throughout the rest of the world. Abundant resources and the absence of political conflict lead to a pleasant life that should be stress-free. However, nearly everyone is obsessed with a perpetual scramble for status, called slope. Medical technology has led to a great lengthening of the human lifespan, but, in order to prevent the Malthusian horrors of over-population, it is awarded only to those citizens who have made notable contributions. The Grayven Warlock was one of those accomplished few, but he has become a fugitive after a feud with another Amaranth resulted in the latter's death. Masquerading as his own relict, using the name Gavin Waylock, he lives in obscurity, looking for the accomplishment that will reinstate him among the immortals. However, Waylock's dramatic stratagems may result in changes to society far beyond anything he had intended... read more

Known only as the Rapparee, a master of blade and shadow, he leads a desperate rebellion against the encroaching Sorcere… Known only as the Rapparee, a master of blade and shadow, he leads a desperate rebellion against the encroaching Sorcerer Lords who have enslaved his homeland. In a realm choked by dark magic and iron rule, his every raid and stealthy strike is a flicker of hope against overwhelming darkness. To break the chains of tyranny, he must outwit powerful mages and ruthless legions, risking his life to reclaim his people's freedom before their spirit is crushed forever. read more

The Faceless Man is a prisoner in his own palace. His power over the people of Durdane is in the hands of Gastel Etzwane… The Faceless Man is a prisoner in his own palace. His power over the people of Durdane is in the hands of Gastel Etzwane, a youth whose thirst for vengeance against the dreaded Rogushkoi would be slaked only by oceans of their blood. For these invincible foes who threatened Durdane had taken and killed his mother and sister. To destroy the Rogushkoi Gastel would have to unite a world that survived only through its separateness. It was more than dangerous, but he had no choice. If they were to fight the people must regain control of their own lives. Only then could Gastel recruit an elite corps of the liberated - the Brave Free Men - to fling against the Rogushkoi and fight to the death. read more

In the reaches of Mircea's Whips the convoluted plots and politics that have swirled around the House of Clattuc and the… In the reaches of Mircea's Whips the convoluted plots and politics that have swirled around the House of Clattuc and the Conservancy of Cadwal are beginning to unravel. But what remains for Glawen Clattuc to discover could bring down a dozen powerful families on as many worlds. Throy concludes the Cadwal Chronicles, which began with Araminta Station and continued in Ecce and Old Earth. read more

His exploration ship blasted from orbit, Terran scout Adam Reith is stranded on Tschai, a world colonized by three alien… His exploration ship blasted from orbit, Terran scout Adam Reith is stranded on Tschai, a world colonized by three alien species -- the Chasch, the Dirdir, and the Wannek -- while the planet's original inhabitants, the mysterious Pnume, lurk underground. In the third book of the four-volume cycle, Reith resolves to build his own spacecraft, to escape Tschai and return to Earth. But the project requires a vast quantity of sequins, the precious stones that are Tschai's common currency -- which can be gathered only in the wildlands of the Carabas, where predatory Dirdir hunt men for pleasure. Reith conceives an unheard-of strategy to win wealth, but its success brings him into contact with the seamy crime boss Aila Woudiver, and leads to a deadly confrontation under alien justice. Tschai is grandmaster Jack Vance at his unparalleled adventure-spinning peak. - Matt Hughes "The Dirdir" is Book III of the Tschai (Planet of Adventure) sequence, and Volume 36 of the Spatterlight Press Signature Series. Released in the centenary of the author's birth, this handsome new collection is based upon the prestigious Vance Integral Edition. Select volumes enjoy up-to-date maps, and many are graced with freshly-written forewords contributed by a distinguished group of authors. Each book bears a facsimile of the author's signature and a previously-unpublished photograph, chosen from family archives for the period the book was written. These unique features will be appreciated by all, from seasoned Vance collector to new reader sampling the spectrum of this author's influential work for the first time. - John Vance II read more