Dragon Rigger: A Novel of the Star Rigger Universe

This intricate but bloated sequel to Dragons in the Stars blends two highly original universes, one SF, one fantasy. The Flux is the mutable hyperspace used by ``riggers''--space-pilots--to cover interstellar distances. Somewhere in the Flux is a magical realm inhabited by talking dragons and other fantastic creatures who are locked in a cataclysmic war with a force known as the Nail of Strength. Although struck a heavy blow in the last book, this entity has more than recovered and now threatens even the universe beyond the Flux. The dragons' only hope is the female rigger Jael, who has fought beside them in the past and was prophesied to return as their savior. Jael is an appealing heroine, but, given her centrality, she appears in too few scenes. Despite a refreshingly unique setting and excellently realized characters, Carver's fantasy plot is standard and predictable, dragging on with little action and an excess of agonized internal monologues. Though it has some emotionally powerful moments, this work is weaker than its predecessor. (June)