Seven of Infinities (2020)

This is a fun space opera novella, which is part mystery, part romance, and part heist. (Though the heist isn't as big a part of the story as it could have been. I personally had no problem with it not playing a bigger part in the story, but I would LOVE backstory novellas about Sunless Woods and crew pulling off some of the real heists mentioned in this story.) I liked the characters, though I didn't connect very strongly to any one of them. Actually, I think the one that I liked best by the end is the Laureate mem-implant.

This is a fun romp, and could be an entry point to de Bodard's Universe of Xuya if you wanted. I have read several—but by no means near all—of the other stories in this universe, and while they might have helped my understanding of some of the tech used here, I don't think they're necessary in order to enjoy this story. ( )

Another great novella set in the Xuya Universe, this one featuring a tutor and a mindship, both with secrets to hide, investigating a mysterious death. This slim volume is packed with enough mystery, thrills, and romance to fill a lengthy novel, but Bodard manages it all so well that it's a perfect little jewel of a read.

Received via NetGalley. ( )