First published 1982
The great planet Helliconia stirs after its long winter. In the equatorial regions, human tribes venture from their shelters into a world transforming under twin suns. The city of Oldorando becomes a focal point where survivors rediscover the foundations of civilization. They mint new coins, establish trade routes, and form romantic bonds. But humanity must still contend with the phagors, savage creatures who dominated the frozen world. As Helliconia's orbital dance brings it closer to warmth, these ancient enemies clash for control of a planet reborn. The struggle plays out against a vast astronomical cycle that dwarfs human lifespans. Love and commerce flourish in Oldorando even as the threat of the phagors looms. This opening volume of Aldiss's trilogy establishes the epic scope of a world where seasons last centuries and survival depends on understanding cosmic rhythms.
Genres: science-fiction, adventure, fantasy, epic
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: ancient-enemies, epic-journey
Setting: Helliconia, Oldorando
Period: long-winter
361 pages · Hardcover · Simon & Schuster