by David Brin
First published 1995
The planet Jijo stands empty by galactic law, its wilderness protected by the Five Galaxies' guardians. But six intelligent species have secretly colonized this forbidden world over centuries, building a hidden society from their shared exile. These refugees live in constant dread of Judgment Day, when their illegal settlement will be discovered and punished. Their fragile peace shatters when an unknown starship descends from space. The vessel's arrival forces the colonists to confront their worst fears. The ship might carry the long-awaited judgment from galactic authorities, spelling doom for their community. Or something worse waits aboard: criminals who will massacre all six races to hide their own transgressions. The refugees must determine whether salvation or annihilation has found their secret world. Their survival depends on understanding the true nature of these unexpected visitors before it's too late.
Genres: science-fiction, adventure, fantasy, space-opera
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, survival
Setting: Jijo, Five Galaxies
Period: Uplift Trilogy
528 pages · Hardcover · Bantam