The Snow Queen Author:Joan D. Vinge Arienrhod. As beautiful as she was ancient, she ruled Tiamat, whose twin suns circled the Stargate that linked her world with the galaxy-spanning Empire. But the Stargate was closing, the offworlders who both enriched and dominated Tiamat would leave soon, the rule of the Winter folk would give way to that of the semi-civilized Summers, and Arie... more »nrhod's reign -- and her arcanely prolonged life -- would end.
The Snow Queen had planned against this time, secretly cloning an heir to be brought up among the Summer people. Moon Dawntreader grew up ignorant of her heritage, yet was drawn to fulfill her destiny in the ancient city where Arienrhod held court -- contending with the Queen for the body and soul of the man who loved them both.
Astonishing, lyrical, and vast, The Snow Queen is certain to be among the most celebrated fantasy masterworks of the decade. Hugo-winner Vinge has fashioned a world as intricately realized as Herbert's Dune, as resonant as LeGuin's Winter. Rich in the smells and songs of a planet as real as our own, it is a brilliant tapestry of idea, character, and adventure that stands firmly in the tradition of today's bold "worldcraft" science fiction.« less