Book Review: In the Company of Others

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

In the Company of Others     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Julie E. Czerneda
Class/Genre:   Science Fiction
Daw, Jun 2001, $6.99, 576 pp.

Mankind broke free of the solar system and terra-formed sixteen different planets so humans can live on them. Then the Quill, a fungus like organism with soothing properties was found on a planet. They quickly spread throughout the terra-formed world, killing everyone on it. The people of earth abandoned those living outside the solar system out of fear that the Quill would invade the home world. At Thromberg Station, Dr. Gail Smith, backed by soldiers, searches for Pardell, a person who was born on a Quill infested planet. Pardell has gold veins that make him sensitive to touch. However, he agrees to accompany Gail back to his home world in an attempt to rid the orb of the Quill. IN THE COMPANY OF OTHERS is a big juicy novel that provides for outer space buffs what Highlander did for immortal gurus. Fans will enjoy this book as Julie E. Czerneda shows she is an up and coming talent by writing a tale with a strong plot populated by complex and diverse characters.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner