Hellspark Hardcover – January 1, 1988 by Janet Kagan
 
Murder, mystery, and interstellar intrigue! Lassti, a newly discovered planet, is the center of political intrigue. Recently the planet survey team’s physicist was found dead. Was he killed? If so, by who? One of his fellow surveyors? Or by one of the birdlike natives of Lassti? This is, if they are intelligent at all, which is proving hard to tell. Into this mix arrives Tocohl, a Hellspark trader who just wanted to have a vacation. After being attacked, rescuing a young woman, and going before a judge, Tocohl has learned all she ever wanted to know about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Now she is seeking answers to mysteries that could save a world.

Hellspark, in particular, is one of our very favorite novels in any genre. All of Janet’s excellencies are apparent as she explores the interfaces of culture, language, intelligence, and what it means to be human. If you have not read Hellspark, you must do so immediately. It's that good.”—Sharon Lee and Steve Miller, coauthors of the best-selling Liaden Universe® series

“An absolute delight.”—Mike Resnick
 
3.19