Secondhand Darkover and Amber Saga Bargain Book Box DSH1128

Secondhand Darkover and Amber Saga Bargain Book Box

Explore two of the most complex science fantasy sagas ever written with this collection of 11 secondhand novels, focusing heavily on Marion Zimmer Bradley's intricate Darkover series and including two entries from the classic Amber continuation. Immerse yourself in the world of the bloody, psychic-powered Comyn of Darkover, struggling against off-world technology, and the epic, shifting realities of the multiverse ruled by the royal family of Amber. This box is perfect for readers who love deep world-building, high stakes, and the blending of psionic powers with political intrigue, offering countless hours of adventure across multiple realities. Each book is secondhand and may show signs of wear.

1. Traitor's Sun by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   The tension between the technologically advanced Terrans and the psychic native Darkovans (Comyn) reaches a breaking point. Damon Ridenow and his allies fight to preserve the delicate balance of their world against those who seek to exploit its unique powers. This entry explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the tragic consequences of cultural collision. It forces characters to choose between tradition and alien progress.

2. Chaos and Amber by Roger Zelazny's (John Gregory Betancourt)
   This continuation of the legendary Amber saga follows Merle Corey, son of Corwin, as he navigates the infinite realities of the multiverse and the treacherous politics of the royal houses. He must confront ancient secrets and shadowy figures who seek to disrupt the balance of Chaos and Order. The novel delves further into the mysteries surrounding the creation of the Pattern and the Logrus. It’s a thrilling entry into the complex world of the one true city, Amber.

3. To Rule in Amber by Roger Zelazny's (John Gregory Betancourt)
   Merle Corey continues his dangerous ascent through the ranks of the powerful families of Amber and Chaos, grappling with his destiny as a potential heir to ultimate power. Intrigue runs deep as alliances shift and hidden enemies reveal themselves across the multitude of shadow worlds. The fate of Amber—the central reality—rests on his ability to master his lineage and the powers he inherited. This book solidifies Merle's role in the cosmic struggle for the throne.

4. The Forbidden Circle by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   This story explores the dangerous training and rigid societal controls placed upon Darkovans born with high psychic powers, known as Laran. It highlights the efforts to prevent misuse of these powers, which can often lead to madness or catastrophic destructive force. The Forbidden Circle refers to those who dare to use their abilities outside the sanctioned Tower training. The narrative centers on a dramatic confrontation over restricted knowledge and necessary restraint.

5. Heritage and Exile: The Heritage of Hastur by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   Regis Hastur is drawn back into the dangerous destiny of his noble family, whose lineage is crucial to the power and stability of Darkover. He must reconcile his duty to his psychic heritage with his modern, Terran-influenced worldview. The novel explores the deep-seated political rivalries and the profound obligations tied to the Hastur name. It is a foundational text detailing the spiritual heart of the Darkovan nobility and their unique powers.

6. The Ages of Chaos by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   Set during a turbulent, mythical period in Darkover’s history, this prequel explores the devastating wars fought primarily through uncontrolled psychic weaponry (Laran). The narrative establishes the origins of the Towers—the institutions created to regulate and contain these destructive powers—to bring order to the world. It is a dark, sprawling tale that sets the stage for the millennia of complicated social structures that follow.

7. To Save a World by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   This novel, originally published as The World Wreckers, deals with a powerful Terran corporation attempting to exploit Darkover’s resources and unique psychic energies. The Comyn leaders must decide how far they are willing to compromise their culture and their Laran abilities to repel this external threat. It is a potent commentary on colonialism and the ethical balance between technological progress and preserving native identity.

8. A World Divided by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   Set against a backdrop of deep cultural schism, this story explores the painful divisions within Darkovan society as characters are torn between ancient traditions and modern pressures. Family loyalties are severely tested as political intrigue and psychic manipulation threaten to tear the planetary civilization apart. The narrative emphasizes the personal toll of large-scale societal conflict and the challenge of choosing sides.

9. Darkover: First Contact by Marion Zimmer Bradley
   This is the story of the dramatic and fateful initial encounter between the isolated, technologically regressed Darkovans and the highly advanced Terran Federation survey team. The novel details the misunderstandings and culture clashes that set the stage for all future conflicts on the planet. It introduces the vital concept of Darkover's protective "Compact" against advanced weaponry, a compact the Terrans immediately challenge.

10. Exile's Song by Marion Zimmer Bradley
    Margaret Alton, a highly placed operative from the Terran Federation who carries Darkovan blood, returns to her ancestral world to investigate a series of dangerous incidents. She finds herself drawn into the complex web of psychic powers and political maneuverings she was raised to dismiss. This entry marks a shift in the series, merging classic science fiction espionage with the innate magic of Darkover.

11. The Shadow Matrix by Marion Zimmer Bradley
    The story centers on the struggle of a young woman coming into her full Laran powers, grappling with the demanding role within the Tower system and the threat of political assassination. She must learn to control her inherited, potentially world-altering abilities under intense pressure from external enemies and internal fear. This volume deeply explores the female roles and the delicate balance of life and death within the psychic matrix of the Towers.