The crew have a problem on the world Bear was from (book one: Flight of the Maita). There is interference that leads to a band of escaped criminals. Critic comment: A rather strange tale. I couldn't decide if it was one I liked, but it intrigued me. The development of characters was done quite well, and one decided whether or not they were likeable quickly. The golems were fun, and reminded me of couples I know. Kurk has been described as a lovable monster, a description that fits nicely. There is much to cause one to question his feelings about Z. He would be one who a person could like, but one about whom many would remain neutral. I liked Thing and Maita, which somewhat surprised me.The villains are very much the villains. The style is as strange as the story. It fits quite well. The author has a problem with commas, but this is a readable, even enjoyable work. - Randolph Sutter.