Rhapsody in Black
Hooded Swan, Book Two
(Autor) Brian StablefordIn the culture of the galaxy, the Star-Pilots of the starships that link the cosmos together have become the great heroes of the day. Grainger, who has become a legend in his own lifetime, is drafted to fly the prototype (the Hooded Swan) of a new ship that could revolutionize space travel. The members of the ultra-ascetic Church of the Exclusive Reward have colonized a number of marginal worlds to exclude themselves from galactic society. On Rhapsody, church members lead a completely subterranean existence. Even closed societies have their rebels, however, so when a major scientific discovery emerges from the caves of the dark planet, everything there falls apart. If Grainger can secure a share in the coming bonanza, he could buy back his freedom from Titus Charlot. Before he can do that, however, he has to find some way of just staying alive.... Hooded Swan, Book Two.
Brian Stableford
Brian Stableford is a British science fiction writer known for his novel "The Empire of Fear" which explores the impact of a totalitarian regime on society. His literary style combines intricate world-building with philosophical themes, earning him recognition as a master of speculative fiction and a key contributor to the genre.