In TRICKSTER (4), Steven Harper's third novel of the Silent Empire, the Silent communicate through the Dream, a telepathic communications net where all sentient minds in the universe are connected. The empire finds itself struggling when tragedy destroys access to the Dream, and Kendi Weaver sets out on a mission to rescue family members missing for more than a decade. Notable for its underlying theme of reconnecting and creating family ties, the novel shines in its portrayal of the relationships among the primary characters, especially the one between Kendi and his lover Ben. It's refreshing to see the natural affection and soul-deep caring of a long-term gay relationship presented matter-of-factly in a sci-fi novel. Quick pacing and absorbing storytelling draw the reader through to another cliffhanger ending, ensuring at least one more book in this outstanding space opera. (Nov., 355 pp., $6.99)

—Jen Talley Exum