Harvest the Fire

The third in the series after Harvest of Stars and The Stars Are Also Fire, Harvest the Fire is more like a novella in size and seems kinda weird compared to other Anderson works considering there are drawings inside. When I saw those, I thought I had made a mistake and picked up a children's book. When I read it, it was good enough, though. It wasn't as sweeping by far as the previous two novels, but no less entertaining for it. It focuses mainly on the plan for a big antimatter heist, and is really cool just for that aspect. You should give Anderson enough respect to read this before you move on to the fourth in the series: The Fleet of Stars.

This is partially in response to the review above from Dayton, Ohio. This is not a lengthy novel. Take out the pictures (by di Fate) and it is less than 150 pages, with few words per page. As far as background is concerned, there is little. Again, this is a short book, and follows Harvest of Stars and The Stars are Also Fire. No one could possibly need any more background after reading those two books, which I would give 10's. They are replete with background. As far as the characters are concerned, Nicol is a confused, emotional guy but is likeable. We know Venator from The Stars are Also Fire. Part of what makes good writing is having imperfect - even unheroic - characters. Nicol is not necessarily unheroic, as you may see. The meshing of the characters, who certainly have distinct aims and personalities, is well done. It is rare to say this about so short a book, but I found the first half slow and the second great, and satisfying. I would not advise reading this alone, but as part of the series. You will discover that there is some foreshadowing - when you read Fleet of Stars. As far as saving your money goes, do it: it is a tiny book to pay $6 for. Buy it used (as this college student wishes he had done). If you are reading the series, do not skip this. It's well worth a couple hours. (Disclaimer: Big Poul Anderson fan)