Set in the same universe as the Ian Cormac books, but set several hundred years earlier, and taking place on just one planet. The protagonists battle against the wildlife of the planet Spatterjay as much as against the bad guys who are out to get them. Also notable for the sarcastic drone Sniper–an excellent character. If you like Iain M. Banks, you’ll like this.

(This quick review is part of my September 2005 “clearing the decks” exercise.)