The Virgin of Valkarion

Name: The Virgin of Valkarion
Author: Poul Anderson

By Poul Anderson

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Science-Fiction & Fantasy

About This Book

The narrative follows a sword-scarred outlander who reaches a crumbling city beneath two moons and survives an ambush by slave assassins bearing the temple brand. Noting that the moons are about to mate, he enters a guarded metropolis where temple rites, political factions, and priestly authority intersect. As ceremonies and power plays unfold, intrigue, assassination, and questions of loyalty and succession force leaders and strangers alike to choose alliances. The story explores ritualized religion, decayed imperial structures, and the precarious balance between personal survival and civic destiny.

About the Author

Poul Anderson

Poul Anderson (1926-2001) was an American science fiction and fantasy author known for his imaginative storytelling and complex world-building. He contributed significantly to the genre, producing a diverse body of work that includes novels, short stories, and essays. Anderson's writing often explores themes of technology, society, and human nature, as seen in notable works such as "The High Crusade" and "Tau Zero." His ability to blend scientific concepts with engaging narratives has earned him a lasting place in literary heritage. Throughout his career, he received multiple Hugo and Nebula awards, solidifying his reputation as a master of speculative fiction.