Star-Wheeled Sky

In the past, humans discovered the Waywork, an alien superhighway system, but there are only a finite number of Waypoint nodes. Humanity is divided into contending Starstates, and war seems inevitable. A new Waypoint appears, and three people race to reach it, facing an implacable foe in Golsubril Vex. The fate of humanity depends on what the revelation or power on the other side might be, and who gets there first.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2020
Publisher: Baen Books

A millennium ago, humans fleeing Earth in slower-than-light vessels stumbled upon the Waywork, an abandoned alien superhighway system enabling instantaneous travel across stars. However, a significant obstacle emerged: the Waypoint nodes, the gateways connecting the stars, were limited in number, restricting the growing human population. Furthermore, humanity was divided into rival Starstates, each with its own unique political system. One of these states was an oligarchy ruled by powerful ruling families, yet it maintained a veneer of democracy. The other was a totalitarian nightmare. The prospect of war loomed large.

Yet, hope emerged in the form of a new Waypoint, which promised to lead to the creators of the Waywork. If this discovery held the key to tipping the balance in the upcoming conflict, it could also bring forth knowledge and technology that could alter the course of history. Three individuals embarked on a perilous journey to reach the new Waypoint: Wyodreth Antagean, the reluctant son of an interstellar shipping magnate; Lady Garsina Oswight, the daring daughter of a royal family; and Zuri Mikton, a disgraced flag officer seeking redemption. They faced an implacable foe in Golsubril Vex, a merciless and highly effective autocrat from the Wayworks' most brutal regime. Vex was determined to seize control of the new Waypoint and harness any revelation or power it might hold.

The fate of humanity now rested on the outcome of this revelation. Would it usher in a future of freedom or endless dictatorship? The answer depended on who reached the new Waypoint first.

A Star-Wheeled Sky, the first book in the series, delves into the intricate political dynamics, technological advancements, and personal journeys of the three protagonists as they navigate the treacherous galaxy. Torgersen offers a fresh take on interstellar conflict, combining thrilling adventure with deep philosophical questions about the nature of humanity and the choices we make in the face of adversity.

Chaplain's War, the second installment, continues the saga as the characters face new challenges and dangers. Torgersen skillfully blends the spiritual aspects of the book with subtlety, seamlessly integrating questions about God and faith into the story. The result is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the final chapter.

In conclusion, A Star-Wheeled Sky and Chaplain's War are must-read books for fans of science fiction and speculative fiction. Torgersen's captivating storytelling and thought-provoking themes will transport readers to a world where the fate of humanity hangs in the balance, and where the discovery of a new Waypoint could hold the key to a brighter future.

Weight: 232g
Dimension: 105 x 172 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982124533