William C. Dietz, Logos Run

Logos Run

William C. Dietz

Ace, October 2006, $24.95, 368 pp.

ISBN: 0441014253

In the very far distant future, an interstellar civilization developed that spread throughout the distant star systems. Humanity advanced because of star gates which allowed instant travel from one planet to another, no matter what star system they were in. The star gates went offline after revolution decimated whole systems, and the long slide into barbarianism has begun. Few star gates remain operational, with most of those run by the mysterious Techno Society, whose leader is Omar Tepho.

Runner Jak Rebo, sensitive Lonni Nor, heavy worlder Bo Hoggless and sentient A.I. Logos are on the planet Thara keeping a promise to a dead man, Lysander who in an early age was the Emperor Hios. His corrupt rule instigated the revolution and now he wants to make amends by having Logos install itself on the plant Sprocket so that the AI can start reseeding the star gates to enable civilization to climb back to its former glory. Tepho wants control of the star gates, and as the heroes travel from planet to planet for reasons known only to the crafty Logos, Tepho and his minion are either there or one stop behind them.

Williams C. Dietz is one of the grandmasters of space opera. LOGOS RUN is full of action adventure, intrigue and surprises, as the protagonists strive to do what is best for humanity by not letting the star gates fall into hands where they would be used to rule over mankind. Logos almost steals the show, as he has his own agenda and manipulates those around to help him carry out his plans. The well thought out storyline is populated by interesting characters representing a civilization on a downward spiral.