Lord of the Dark Sun

by Stobie Piel

Lord of the Dark Sun

Stobie Piel

Dorechester Publishing Co., Inc., Dec. 2002

www.dorchesterpub.com

ISBN # 0-505-52505-4

Genre:  Science fiction/romance

 Christina Francine's Review

I haven’t found many science fiction novels that combine the genre with romance well.  When a story is able to, while also adding mystery, drama, and suspense with surmountable odds, it’s worth mentioning. Piel’s Lord of the Dark Sun offers what Romantic Times describes as “a rousing adventure with blistering sensual fire!” Sometimes science fiction stories are ruined by romance, and sometimes romance stories are ruined by science fiction. I agree with Romance Times because the adventures of this novel involve tantalizing characters from other planets who travel to distant planets, surprises and excitement, battle against races who try to dominate and oppress, and steamy tension between sexy characters.

Ariana of Valenwood, daughter of Arnath, King of the Ellowan acted as a Prime Representative of the Intersystem Council, had been captured. She had ventured to the outskirts of the Border Territory, too far, and she and the others on the ship regretted it. The inhuman Automon didn’t seem human, and yet was designed in human form. Six women from Ariana’s ship had been captured, and eventually, Ariana realized they intended to raise them to mate with barbaric men who slaved in caverns. As the men moved to claim Ariana, the largest wanted her for himself. Eventually, she would learn who the solid, muscled man with long dark hair was, but not before he stole her heart. Would she ever see her family and home planet again? Could she forget this hulk of a man if she did?

For readers who enjoy finding and experiencing a blend of science fiction and romance done well, Lord of the Dark Sun is one to pick up. I found mine in a used bookstore. Though published a while ago (Dec. 2002), an excellent story never expires.