Scan barcode
A review by thinde
The Gandalara Cycle I by Randall Garrett, Vicki Ann Heydron
5.0
How would you feel if you were suddenly asked to live someone else's life? A life where you are being saught by the police, organized-crime and an unwanted prospective bride. In "The Gandalara Cycle," the old and dying Ricardo Carillo finds himself in the body of a young man, in an unfamiliar world, with a large lump on his head and a freakishly large cat stalking him.
There are seven books in this series and each of them is a good read. I particularly like the first novel because Ricardo is seeing everything with fresh eyes. His unique way of dealing with things prompts some interesting reactions from all those who think they know him. In a sense, many believe the problems of other people are minor, in comparison to their own. This story allows us to explore that theory. Can a complete stranger untangle a young man's life?
All seven novels are tied to a logical plot-line but this structure is revealed a small piece at a time. In this way, the narrative is full of enough suspense and action to encourage some very quick reading. There is occasional misdirection so that we have to turn our personal theories upside-down, several times. It's good value, because each time that happens, you are forced to review what has already happened in a new light.
The society depicted is not overly different to reality, although the inclusion of a small minority,, is pivotal. This concept has been well explored elsewhere but the author uses the subtle variations well, drawing the possibilities into new and interesting directions, both political and metaphysical. These books should interest those who enjoy traditional science fiction as well as fantasy buffs. Although often out of print, I recommend you try to find secondhand copies somewhere.
There are seven books in this series and each of them is a good read. I particularly like the first novel because Ricardo is seeing everything with fresh eyes. His unique way of dealing with things prompts some interesting reactions from all those who think they know him. In a sense, many believe the problems of other people are minor, in comparison to their own. This story allows us to explore that theory. Can a complete stranger untangle a young man's life?
All seven novels are tied to a logical plot-line but this structure is revealed a small piece at a time. In this way, the narrative is full of enough suspense and action to encourage some very quick reading. There is occasional misdirection so that we have to turn our personal theories upside-down, several times. It's good value, because each time that happens, you are forced to review what has already happened in a new light.
The society depicted is not overly different to reality, although the inclusion of a small minority,