duane@anasazi.UUCP (Duane Morse) (12/30/85)
The jacket reads: "Irritating Horseye! Many worlds of the Humanx Commonwealth boasted of "natural wonders", but Horseye was truly unique--the planet had the most spectacular river valley anywhere in the known universe and was home to three alien cultures. The fascinating planet just cried out for proper study, and after months of impatient quarantine Etienne and Lyra Redowl had finally received permission to begin a voyage of exploration to the source of the River Skar, a mere 12,000 kilometers Upriver. Old hands at cracking new planets, the Redowls studied the aliens, languages, took local guides, and provided for emergencies. But nothing could prepare them for the awesome treachery of the natives or the unbelievable natural obstacles. And not even the natives understood the planet's deepest secret..." For a change, the jacket summary is completely accurate! The Humanx Commonwealth is one which Mr. Foster has used in many other novels, but it isn't a major part of this book. The story mainly concerns the journey of the Redowls up the river, their xenological and geological research along the way, their dealings with guides from two of the planet's intelligent life forms, and their relationship with each other. The technology they employ is not especially far advanced-- their boat, hand weapons, etc. seem quite reasonable. I was very impressed by the way the main characters came across. Their marriage is wearing a bit thin, and they frequently employ sarcasm against each other, just like in real life! And yet there remains a core of caring and commitment. I enjoyed the book. It never got especially exciting, but it never got dull either. I give this one 3 stars (very good). -- Duane Morse ...!noao!terak|anasazi!duane or ...!noao!mot!anasazi!duane (602) 870-3330