Powers That be

Well-handled far-future speculation on ecological engineering and planetary consciousness, from McCaffrey (Damia's Children, etc.) and Scarborough (Last Refuge). Major Yana Maddock of the ubiquitous "company" is medically discharged (poison gas has ruined her lungs) on the arctic planet Petaybee, where the company has noted some odd goings-on: unauthorized new life forms have mysteriously appeared; geological survey teams have inexplicably disappeared. Yana is assured of a full pension in return for spying on the Petaybeans, the latter a mixed Eskimo-Irish population well adapted to the frigid climate. Befriended by the local women, taught how to survive in the cold, given a medicine that heals her lungs, Yana soon comes to admire the Petaybeans, especially handsome genetics whiz Scan. And their secret? Well, the planet itself is sentient, and eager to communicate with those willing to listen. But soon the company grows impatient with Yana's honest explanations, sending in troops to grab what they want. The planet itself reacts to confound the invaders, forcing them to learn to communicate. And Scan turns out to be doubly adapted - he can transform his body into that of a seal. Agreeably colorful, well-realized adventure centered on an intriguing alternative lifestyle. A felicitous combination of authors, rather better indeed than either contributor's recent solo efforts. (Kirkus Reviews)