Viewpoints Critical: Selected Stories

This is the first story collection ever from bestselling fantasy and science fiction writer L. E. Modesitt, Jr. Modesitt began publishing short fiction in the SF magazines in the 1970s, and this collection includes a selection of stories from the whole of his career. Some of the early stories are kernels for his early SF novels, others display the wide range of his talents and interests, from satire to military adventure.

This book also contains three new stories that have never been published before: “Black Ordermage,” set in Modesitt’s bestselling Recluce series; “Beyond the Obvious Wind,” set in his Corean Chronicles universe; and “Always Outside the Lines,” which is related to the Ghost of Columbia books. Viewpoints Critical is an excellent introduction to the work of one of the major SF and fantasy writers publishing today.

Publishers Weekly

This impressive collection of reprints dating back to 1973 and a handful of new stories displays Modesitt's breadth of experience and knowledge to great effect. "The Great American Economy" mocks those who micromanage the national economy for political advantage. "Rule of Law" elegantly revives the age-old topic of computerized justice. "Iron Man, Plastic Ships" draws powerfully on Modesitt's experience as a navy helicopter pilot in Vietnam, as does "The Swan Pilot," a modernized fairy tale with a twist. "Beyond the Obvious Wind" connects with the Corean Chronicles as "Black Ordermage" and "Sisters of Sarronnyn, Sisters of Westwind" do with the Recluce saga. As in Modesitt's novels, eloquent prose and skilled characterization are evident, only slightly diminished by occasional outbreaks of slow pacing. Readers will find this an excellent showcase of a very fine writer's highest quality work. (Mar.)

L.E. Modesitt, Jr. lives in Cedar City, Utah.