Explore. Protect. Survive.

When Jan has to leave Hesperidia for the first time in decades to attend a crucial summit, she’s forced to abandon the search for a missing keystone creature, the majestic cor’arkhis. Countless species in its secluded ecosystem depend on that apex animal for survival. Its absence poses a troubling mystery that could have profound consequences for wildlife in the region.

So she recruits her lawman partner, Vaughn, to take up the search in her stead. He’s eager to impress her in his new role as Alien Safari’s Security Chief. Combining his own detective expertise with what Jan has taught him about the plants and creatures of this strange world, he pieces together the puzzle of what happened. But as he delves ever deeper into the mystery, he makes a startling discovery out in the desert. One that places him and Stopper, his loyal canine companion, in mortal danger at every turn.

The evolutionary wiles of two worlds collide in this breakneck adventure novella science fiction fans won’t want to miss.

Jan has left Hesperidia for a conference that will determine the future of the planet’s human residents and their research. While she is gone, Vaughn has been tasked with finding a missing creature whose presence is vital to the eco-balance of the area. He discovers that the cocoons of the creature’s unborn offspring have been stolen and the creature has left his area to retrieve them. Vaughn and Stopper must find the creature and discover what other creature was bold enough to steal the cocoons.

This is a short novella in the Alien Safari series and focuses solely on Vaughn as he works his way into the scope of his new position as Alien Safari’s Security Chief as well as his desire to impress Jan. The action is quick and non-stop. The new areas of the planet that we get to see and the new creatures we learn about are as intriguing as ever. There is suspense as Vaughn and Stopper are on the trail to help the cor’arkhis while also realizing that the creature will see them as just as much an enemy as those who stole his children.  The conclusion is satisfying and we have a hint of where the next novel will take us. Recommended. ~~ Stephanie L Bannon

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