Sheffield, Charles. Resurgence.

SHEFFIELD, Charles. Resurgence. Baen. 440p. c2003. 0-7434-8819-9. $7.99. SA Following the Convergent Series and Transvergence in Sheffield's Heritage Universe series, this novel once again toys with the theories of the Builders and their enigmatic artifacts. Hans Rebka, Builder expert Darya Lang, E. Crimson Tally, Louis Nenda (reminiscent of Star Wars' Han Solo) and a band of other explorers, scientists, and aliens are brought together to investigate a force that is destroying star systems in the Sagittarius Arm of the galaxy. Danger to their own Orion Arm has been detected, although through unreliable channels, and information about this threat is believed to be found in the Sagittarius Arm along with the possibility of Builder artifacts. When the group reaches the Sagittarius Arm, frozen planets with no obvious signs of Builder activity await them. In order to explore the vast reaches of this system, the group splits up so that one group can explore the surrounding space for a Chism Polypheme who may be able to provide information about the threat. Another group explores what is believed to be a hollow ice planet. Still another searches for the missing Marglot system. Lives are lost and mistakes are made but the heroic motley crew forges on with no lack of comedic banter.

Readers of Arthur C. Clarke, Robert Heinlein, Spider Robinson's Callahan series and Margaret Weis' and Don Perrin's Mag Force 7 series will enjoy this space adventure involving eclectic, humorous characters. Readers of hard SF will enjoy the technical details and scientific jargon. A fun, fast-paced read. Ginger Armstrong, Prin. Lib. Assoc., County PL., Chesterfield, VA