Emerald to Ice by Matt Colborn

(Independently published, 2021)

Reviewed by Phil Nicholls

Emerald to Ice revolves around an anthropology mission to the planet Nyuki. The novel’s binary star setting is one of its best features. Nyuki orbits the smaller star Biloko, which in turn orbits the much larger Asali. This combination produces dramatic climate shifts on Nyuki, from verdant emerald to thick ice. Nyuki's climate is similar to Bran Aldiss’ Helliconia, although on a shorter timeframe.

The planets Xue and Leng orbit within the system’s Exo Kuiper belt. Six Abode space stations orbit Leng, home to the resident human population. Colborn thankfully includes a helpful diagram of this system.

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Review from BSFA Review 17 - Download your copy here.