The Sky People

Marc Vitrac, born in 1960s Louisiana, came into a world where the first interplanetary probes unveiled life on Mars and Venus, igniting a global Space Race.

Fast forward to 1988, Marc is stationed at Jamestown, a US-Commonwealth base on Venus, set against a backdrop of sabertooths and dinosaurs, near the bustling Venusian city of Kartahown. This base is not just a scientific outpost; it’s a frontier of American and allied adventurers and scientists, navigating a world as perilous as it is mysterious.

Trouble brews in this alien wilderness. The scientists are baffled by Venus’s Earth-like life forms, stirring scientific and political tensions. The EastBloc’s nearby base, Cosmograd, adds to the chilly diplomatic climate. Marc’s attempts to woo the tough Cynthia Whitlock, a geologist, bring a personal edge to the high-stakes environment.

In a parallel struggle, Teesa of the Cloud Mountain People is locked in a fierce battle with Neanderthal-like beastmen over sacred caves. An EastBloc shuttle crash escalates the conflict, arming the beastmen with modern weaponry.

Jamestown’s mission to rescue the EastBloc cosmonauts spirals into a journey of discovery. They face tribal warfare and unearth secrets that could redefine their understanding of science and history. Amidst all this, a hidden enemy lurks on their own airship.

The Sky People offers a gripping mix of alternate history and action-packed adventure, blending interplanetary exploration with terrestrial conflicts, set in a universe where science fiction meets ancient mysteries. This novel is a must-read for fans of high-stakes adventure and intricate alternate realities.

S.M. Stirling is a masterful author, known for his detailed world-building and intricate storytelling. Stirling’s writing is clear and engaging, making complex scenarios accessible to readers. His characters are well-developed, each with their own voice and depth, driving the narrative with their believable actions and choices. In essence, Stirling’s books are a blend of meticulous research and creative flair, offering readers a captivating journey through unique and thought-provoking worlds.

Highlights

• Award Recognition: S.M. Stirling has been honored with several awards, including the Prometheus Award, acknowledging his contribution to the genre of libertarian science fiction.

• Expert World Builder: Stirling’s ability to create rich, detailed worlds is unparalleled. His settings are not just backdrops but integral parts of the story, full of history and culture.

• Alternate History Specialist: He is renowned for his skill in crafting alternate history narratives, offering readers thought-provoking ＂what if＂ scenarios that are both imaginative and well-researched.

• Diverse Characters: Stirling’s character development is a key strength. He creates a diverse range of believable, relatable characters, each with their own motivations and growth arcs.

• Engaging Narrative Style: His writing style is engaging and immersive, drawing readers into the story with a balance of descriptive prose and brisk pacing.

• Innovative Themes: Stirling often explores complex themes like societal evolution, technological impact, and cultural diversity, making his books not just entertaining but intellectually stimulating.