The Crystal Singer Trilogy

Anne McCaffrey

1/2/1999 science fiction novel, book review, The Crystal Singer, Killashandra, Crystal Line, Anne McCaffrey, space opera, mining, singing, song, Jandy's Reading Room

Once again Anne McCaffrey's imagination amazes me. The Crystal Singer trilogy is one more example of why she is a legend in the science fiction/fantasy field.

Killashandra Ree had high aspirations to be a professional singer. Unfortunately there is a slight rasp in her voice that prevents her from achieving her goal despite her perfect pitch. Another job opportunity is then offered to her.

Crystal mining takes a special person. The crystals that are in high demand throughout the galaxy are only found on one planet, Ballybran. If a person is qualified as a crystal miner, the mines provide a job and security for life and can make the person very wealthy. The catch is once a person starts mining crystal, it is difficult to leave Ballybran.

Killashandra decides to check out the job. She listens to all the negatives, hears all the cautions, listens to all the information provided. She talks to some of the long time miners. She decides to stay if the planet accepts her. It does, and she is now a crystal miner.

This trilogy follows Killashandra as she settles into her new life. She is a successful crystal miner, but she also has all the problems. All three novels are excellent. They are best read in order, yet each is self contained, building but not totally dependent on the previous one.

Although all three novels are not currently available in one edition, they can each be purchased separately through by clicking on the book cover below.