Though they have mind powers, the Khutani in their underground havens do not all think as one, nor do the races of this planet nor human newcomers. Dunnagh and his symbiote Tani are doing as they think best, but not everyone agrees with them. Tani is only a child, with ancestral memories vital to their survival as their surroundings and the seasons are changing. To support their band of human and alien refugees, Tessa takes on a spiritual bond she never expected as a scientist.

Humans and aliens struggle to survive on a planet surface foreign to them both, which still suffers the aftermath of a past disaster. Dunnagh is responsible for his people, wanting to bring his soldiers and civilians to safety. The Khutani work to preserve not only their own people, but the races of this planet Timorna where they dwell. It takes all the Khutani mind powers, and those of Dunnagh, to bring them together for symbiosis.

The Outlawed Bond is the third book in the series Tales of the Kashallans, by celebrated author Celu Amberstone. Drawing on her Indigenous and Celtic heritage, Amberstone writes powerful fiction subtly different from the usual science fiction or fantasy adventures. For fans of the ‘Hundred Worlds’ approach used in Star Trek and in Golden Age magazines, there are diverse settings and cultures along the journey taken by these human and alien characters.

I can’t tell you how refreshing and original this opening chapter strikes me. Not only do we begin to understand the premise of the book and the mindset of the Khutani, we also learn, in a visceral way, how truly alien they are. Brilliant… Definitely makes you want to read more.

Okay, three races involving an unusual biological relationship, hints of treachery and betrayal, hints of past and future disasters, moderately advanced technology, highly advanced psy powers, magic and spiritual power taken for granted, and a galaxy-wide environment. This is space opera writ large combined with both fantasy and hard SF. That’s one heck of an accomplishment to establish in two short opening chapters. Even without knowing there are multiple volumes, it’s obvious the Tales of the Kashallans constitute a genuine epic written with such skill that you will be enthralled however long the series lasts.

This is a richly detailed fantasy/space opera that is positively addictive. Celu Amberstone has the knack of weaving elaboration and action into a vivid tapestry of action and character. Well rounded, deftly written, and a joy to read. Highly recommended. Consider it a useful antidote to mundane life these days… a genuine pleasure you owe yourself.

-R. Graeme Cameron for Amazing Stories.

Amberstone’s world-building puts together brave new peoples and gritty adventures, evoking strong responses in the reader.

• author Paula Johanson