(2) Righteous Anger - Part Two of the Okal Rel Saga

Is the need to play a role a threat to the throne of Sevildom?

Back from exile to claim the throne of Sevildom, Ev’rel must play the frail princess with the Demish to claim power as she is tempted by her feelings for her ex-mentor Di Mon.

But does she love him or hate him? Disillusioned by Ev’rel’s warped sexuality, but desperate to secure her as a leader, Di Mon is terrified she will discover the equally forbidden bond between himself and the young forbidden Reetion, Ranar.

An unwilling contender for the throne, Ev’rel’s beautiful, battered son Amel longs for friendship with tom-boy Ayrium, who has been sent to court to put down her sword and don a dress to win court allies for her rebel alliance.

Ayrium meets a peculiar, reclusive scholar from Monitum and worries romance will distract her from her true agenda. Will her inconvenient love interest change everything for everyone?

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About Lynda Williams
Born in Prince George, British Columbia, Lynda holds three post secondary degrees. Her last Masters was in computation from McMaster University in Hamilton. She works as Instructional Designer for the Rural Acute Care Nursing Certification program at the University of Northern B.C. Lynda is married to David Lott with daughters Jennifer, Angela and Tegan.

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Praise:
"In this well-written and detailed story, the author uses many original words and phrases to make the tale come alive. If readers enjoys fast-moving complicated plots, swordplay, relationships, and a setting involving different worlds and space opera, they should be well satisfied." - Ronald Hore, CM Magazine

"Pretenders brings the level of secrecy inherent in the ORU to its peak, with characters new and familiar faced with some of the brightest and ugliest moments in the series. There's a careful balance of perspectives that offer new insight as well as give a global picture to the rich, wide span of influences in the Gelack Empire. The secrets tug and twist around and between characters, with climactic results. Bridging the gap beautifully and concisely to Throne Price, I'd recommend this book to any fan of the series." - Hal J. Friesen

The Saga begins...

When Earth’s first attempt to conquer the far reaches of space was thwarted by the failure of a faster than light transportation system, the first colonists were abandoned.

Subsequent colonizations were successful but ideological differences in cloning caused renegade scientists to sever their contact with Earth and establish their own unique world.

Now, thousands of years in the future, the scattered descendents of humanity have evolved into two distinct planetary societies: the Reetions of Rire, who rely on advanced computer technology to regulate every aspect of their lives, and the genetically superior and honor bound Sevolites, of Gelion.

With one conflict already behind them, these two cultures are once again on the brink of war. But one last desperate mission is launched and somewhere within a dark region of space, Reetions and Sevolites find themselves torn between their own alliances and the inexplicable desire that constantly draws them closer together.

Will the brilliant anthropologist, Ranar of Rire, find out more than he bargained for in the strange undercity of Gelion?

Will the hot-headed Reetion pilot, Ann, learn that true love has a price? Will the Sevolite blade-dancer, Von, discover the dark secrets which hold the key to his world’s survival? And will Di Mon, the proud Highlord of Gelion somehow find the strength to face the chaos that may destroy them all?

About Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams is the author of the Okal Rel saga published by Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing. She has also published non-fiction works in a variety of areas such as a recent publication about sexual identity in her character Amel. Lynda holds three post secondary degrees.

It was supposed to be a civilized event...

But the first-ever cultural exchange between the Sevolite empire and the worlds of Rire was in trouble even before festivities were interrupted by the desperate rescue of a rebel Nesak priest.

There are plenty reasons for cross-cultural relations to be strained. Horth braved a Demish ball to find out why Ilse ran away. Ilse’s not the only woman dealing with an unexpected pregnancy. And Eler’s staging questionable plays. Amel’s in trouble with the Vrellish for agreeing to get married and in trouble with the Demish for agreeing to perform with a Reetion dancer who turns out to be gay. When Amel’s ex-lover, Ann of Rire, puts in an appearance with a baby she claims to be his, his Bridegroom ball is at stake. As well as the baby’s life, if the Vrellish suspect unnatural origins.

The arrival of a Lorel doctor in a bizarre ship stirs the mix. And controversy flares into a duel when Rire discovers Nersallians hunt and kill grabrats – the only intelligent aliens known to Rire.

And then the Nesaks arrive, prepared to shut down the new dawn of civilization with total war.

About Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams is Learning Technology Analyst and Manager at Simon Fraser University and teaches web development, part-time, for BCIT. She holds three university degrees, founded the Prince George FreeNet in the 1990s, and managed the Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Northern B.C. for ten years doing work for which she received awards in the field of social uses for digital innovations.

The Okal Rel Saga has been a lifelong preoccupation focused on well-loved characters who dramatize the struggle to rise above inter-cultural power struggles in order to put science to work for humanity. Lynda also manages the “Writer’s Craft” feature on the Clarion blog with David Lott, and celebrates science fiction with kindred spirits on her blog, Reality Skimming, assisted by Tegan Lott and Michelle Carraway. Additional stories set in the universe established by the Okal Rel Saga can be found in the Okal Rel Legacies series, available in print and digital formats.

War threatens to destroy both worlds...

In the far reaches of space the descendants of humanity have evolved into two vastly different cultures. On the planet Rire, the Reetions use computer technology to ensure comfort and equality for all. On Gelion, genetically modified Sevolites adhere to a strict ­hierarchy based on racial purity and ones ability to wield a sword.

As war threatens to destroy both worlds, two men, Erien of Rire and Amel of Gelion, attempt to preserve the fragile peace. Together they hope to unravel the complex web of intrigues and ancient hatred that threatens to destroy ­humanity itself.

This is book four of the Okal Rel Saga, a massive ten part epic, of love, war, betrayal, and hope.

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About the authors:

Lynda Williams is a graduate of the University of Victoria, where she ­specialized in organic chemistry and creative writing. Her short work “Bride’s Story” set in the Okal Rel universe, was recently published in Erotic Fantastic. She lives in British Columbia, Canada.

Alison Sinclair was born in Colchester, England and graduated from McMaster University with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry. Her first published novel, Legacies, which earned a spot on the Locus Best of Year List in 1995 was followed by Blueheart, and Cavalcade - which was shortlisted for the Arthur C. Clarke Award in 1998. Alison lives in Victoria, Canada.

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Praise:

"Despite how strange the Sevolites seem from our perspective, the authors achieve a fine depth of characterization, subtly and movingly tied to all the hints about how enculturation works in both societies. Both a political thriller and a clear-eyed view of how science might create a wholly biological social hierarchy, Throne Price is thoughtful entertainment at its best." - Douglas Barbour, Canadian Book Review Annual

"Throne Price is a difficult book to summarize due to the twisted nature of Gelack politics and the complex net of shifting loyalties. It's easy enough to call it science fiction, but like all good science fiction, it examines deeper issues: loyalty, love, propriety, sexual relationships (heterosexuality, homosexuality and incest) and family values, among others. Authors Lynda Williams and Alison Sinclair treat each of these subjects -- even the most difficult ones -- fairly. The authors do an admirable job of juggling all the storylines without dropping anything and thoughtfully provide a glossary of Gelack terms." - Laurie Thayer, reviewer

"I recommend this book highly... Throne Price has intrigue, mystery and a wealth of history imbedded in a futuristic story setting.... Maybe I am just being selfish, but I am betting that most of you will love this book … and those that don’t … well there is no accounting for taste." - Stephanie Ann Johanson, Neo-Opsis

"Throne Price is science fiction for the intellectual reader. ... The characters are unusual, yet they make sense within the parameters of the societies with which they identify. We rated this work five hearts." - Bob Spear, Heartland Reviews

"...one of the most original and ­fascinating works of fantasy I have ever read... marvellous world-building, and a genuine page-turner of a plot." - Marie Jakober, author

"An exhilarating and enjoyable read, Throne Price is enthusiastically recommended reading for dedicated and discerning science fiction fans." - Library Bookwatch

"... you may find yourself caught up, as I did, by a complex and richly-imagined story. Like a Shakespearian tragedy, Throne Price leaves you with almost as much sympathy for the "villains" as for the "heros." Throne Price aims, ever so indirectly at the question "what does it really mean to be human?" I eagerly look forward to Williams and Sinclair’s future novels." - David Casperson

One thousand years in the future...

Two descendant races of humanity square off over their political differences as Sevolite Prince Amel’s life hangs in the balance.

The neo-feudal Sevolites finally acknowledge the vulnerable but civilized people of the Reetion Confederacy as independent commoners.

The supposedly enlightened Reetions prove however, that they are far from being the harmless pacifists they claim to be — this sophisticated society run by incorruptible Artificial Intelligence is prepared to do anything to ensure its own survival!

About Lynda Williams:

Lynda Williams is the author of the Okal Rel Saga published by Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing. Lynda holds three post secondary degrees.

Praise:

“The Okal Rel Saga is culturally complex and politically tangled, an epic tale of clashing civilizations and worldviews.” — Dru Pagliassotti, The Harrow

“Plenty of action with great world building and well-written characters. This one is a keeper. And made me want more of the Okal Rel universe.” — Pam Allan, ConNotations Magazine

“It must be said that the richness and vibrancy of the entire universe Williams has created is so intricate and well-planned that sometimes, it takes a couple of readings to get your head completely around some of the sub-themes and off-screen action. That being said, each time you read one of these books, it’s a different journey, a different experience; almost a different story…” — Nathalie Mallett, author.

Change has come at last to the Sevolite empire

The conservative Demish of Lion House want it stopped — now!

Ilse Marin is a middle-class leader of a merchant house who gets embroiled in the business of her betters to help pay the bills, and winds up falling for the most dangerous man in the empire - Horth Nersal. Horth’s bright idea about using commoners to deal with Reetions under Sword Law winds up in a stand off in space, fleet to fleet with Lion House. Back on Gelion, Erien’s new academy breaks out in plague.

Amel, meanwhile, must win his way back into the parlors and reception halls of the Silver Demish if he wants to have an influence politically, and to do that he has to overcome his reputation as the Courtesan Prince - via poetry.

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About Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams is the author of the Okal Rel Saga published by Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing. Lynda holds three post secondary degrees. Healer’s Sword is book seven in the 10 book Okal Rel Saga.

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Praise for Lynda William's Writing:

“The Okal Rel Saga is culturally complex and politically tangled, an epic tale of clashing civilizations and world views.” — Dru Pagliassotti, The Harrow

“Plenty of action with great world building and well-written characters. — Pam Allan, ConNotations Magazine

“It must be said that the richness and vibrancy of the entire universe Williams has created is so intricate and well-planned that sometimes, it takes a couple of readings to get your head completely around some of the sub-themes and off-screen action. That being said, each time you read one of these books, it’s a different journey, a different experience; almost a different story…” — Nathalie Mallett, author, The Princes of the Golden Cage

“With a great universe, full and life-like characters, spellbinding story line, Lynda Williams’ books are a must read for any person who enjoys a GOOD sci-fi novel.” — Ky Leishner, Amazon.com

“...If readers enjoys fast-moving complicated plots, swordplay, relationships, and a setting involving different worlds and space opera, they should be well satisfied.” — Ronald Hore, CM Magazine

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Books in this series of 10 novels:

Courtesan Prince (Part One of the Okal Rel Saga)
Rightous Anger (Part Two of the Okal Rel Saga)
Pretenders (Part Three of the Okal Rel Saga)
Throne Price (Part Four of the Okal Rel Saga)
Far Arena (Part Five of the Okal Rel Saga))
Avim's Oath (Part Six of the Okal Rel Saga)
Healer's Sword (Part Seven of the Okal Rel Saga)
Gathering Storm (Part Eight of the Okal Rel Saga)
Holy War  (Part Nineof the Okal Rel Saga)
Unholy Science  (Part Ten of the Okal Rel Saga)

Love and titles are lost and won as two brothers struggle to attain power, recognition, and acceptance in a world filled with treachery and hatred.

The Queen is dead. Two princes are suddenly thrust center-stage to vie for a throne neither really wants, orchestrated by the ambitions of power-hungry princesses.

Amel, the elder, would prefer a quiet life — but is being pressured into the pursuit of power by the alarmingly beautiful princess Alivda.

Erien, the younger, wants to start an academy of science on their planet — but is being pursued by the leige Vretla, who intends to bear the prince’s child.

Trapped in a tangle of torment, the two brothers must prove themselves, choosing between lives they desire, and the roles for which they are demanded.

Twelve years have passed since the events of A Handful of Stars. Star continues to silently mourn Caleb’s death, World Builders, Inc. is completing its first asteroid-based Bernal sphere, and the Svensdotter twins are of a restless age. When the opportunity to undertake a survey mission of Mars’ Cydonia region presents itself, Star leaps at the chance. 

Drifting above Mars' surface, the family rediscovers the wonder of pure exploration. With strength and humor, Star addresses her parenting difficulties, battles 21st century piracy, connects with a self-sustaining Martian colony and discovers a mysterious link with the red planet’s—and Earth’s—ancient past.

In this concluding volume of the trilogy, Svensdotter comes to terms with the repercussions of The Big Lie and is forced to look back to Terra as well as out to the stars.

Ellfive colony won its independence in the One-Day Revolution, but while much may be forgiven, its debts haven’t been. The orbital nation needs a serious supply of minerals and ore to realize its manufacturing potentials, and in this solar system, the cost of lifting rocks to orbit is prohibitive, the only viable option is to mine them yourself.

And so, Star Svensdotter leads a prospecting expedition to the Belt, almost two AUs out, on the very edges of Earth’s colonization of space. It’s not exactly unexplored territory—a motley assortment of grifters, drifters and fortune-hunters have already made the Belt their home—but Star and her crew soon find that they have a lot to offer the anarchic frontier society, and that there are richer opportunities than merely mining for minerals. 

The second in Dana Stabenow’s Star Svensdotter trilogy, A Handful of Stars follows humanity’s outward migration into the solar system.

The technology for interstellar flight exists through the power of Kinemet, but the key to unlocking its code lies in a thousand-year-old scroll left on Earth by an alien species.

When the ancient manual is stolen before a full translation is completed, Alex, Michael and Justine scramble to recover it.

Along the way, they stumble on an interplanetary conspiracy and uncover a secret that shatters their view of life and shakes the very foundations of our existence.

The Interstellar Age
Book 1 - Forbidden The Stars
Book 2 - Music of the Spheres
Book 3 - Worlds Away