Best Jack Vances

of Feb 2025

   In the realm of science fiction and fantasy literature, the name Jack Vance stands as a beacon of creativity and imagination. With a career spanning over five decades, Vance crafted intricate and immersive worlds that captivated readers and critics alike. His works, such as "The Dying Earth" series and "The Demon Princes" saga, continue to inspire and enthrall audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Vance's unique blend of scientific concepts, philosophical musings, and vivid storytelling has earned him a dedicated following, solidifying his position as one of the most influential and celebrated authors in the field.

This Is Me, Jack Vance!

9.8
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This Is Me, Jack Vance! - The Illustrated Edition is a must-have for any fan of Jack Vance, one of the most influential writers in science fiction, fantasy, and mystery literature. This expanded editi...on of Vance's memoir offers a glimpse into his life and craft, with a plethora of new photographs, personal notes, documents, and excerpts from private manuscripts and scrapbooks. It's a treasure trove of memories, thoughts, and images that illuminate the inner world of this brilliant creator. Readers of This Is Me, Jack Vance! - The Illustrated Edition will discover the stories behind some of Vance's most famous works, including The Dying Earth, the Lyonesse trilogy, the adventures of Cugel the Clever, The Demon Princes series, and The Cadwal Chronicles. They'll also learn how Vance crafted his stories, how he developed his characters, and how he managed to remain so prolific throughout his career. This Is Me, Jack Vance! - The Illustrated Edition is a must-have for any fan of Jack Vance. It's a unique look into the life and work of one of the most important writers in the fantasy and science fiction world, and a testament to his lasting legacy.

Hard

9.6
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Hard-Luck Diggings: The Early Jack Vance, Volume One is a must-read for any fan of the genre-defining work of Grand Master Jack Vance. This collection of fourteen stories from the first twelve years o...f Vance's career provides an illuminating armchair tour of how the Jack Vance enterprise came to be. These stories, written to pay the mortgage, buy groceries, and travel the world, demonstrate the process of perfecting Vance's special way of doing things so that his name and distinctive voice could become a viable “brand.” As readers journey through this collection, they will be able to experience the thrill of the upward climb, the zest and life of Vance's work, and a love of adventure and high romance. Hard-Luck Diggings: The Early Jack Vance, Volume One is a must-have for any fan of the genre-defining work of Grand Master Jack Vance. This collection of stories provides an illuminating tour of how the Jack Vance enterprise came to be and is full of zest, life, and the thrill of the upward climb. Readers will be able to experience a love of adventure and high romance with each story. Whether you are a fan of Vance or just a lover of adventure, Hard-Luck Diggings: The Early Jack Vance, Volume One is sure to please.

Demon Princes

9.4
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The Demon Princes product is an epic collection of stories from the master of science fiction, Jack Vance. This series follows the adventures of Kirth Gersen, a man on a mission to avenge the death of... his family by hunting down the five most notorious criminals in the Gaean Reach. The series is set in a far-off future, where criminals have the freedom to act out their most violent desires among the civilized worlds of the Oikumene. However, justice cannot follow them when they escape into the lawless Beyond – a vast playground where the most elusive and monomaniacal murderers, thieves, and slavers can create a world of their own. Kirth Gersen's journey takes him through a variety of settings, from Sailmaker Beach on oceanic Alphanor of the Rigel Concourse, to the deserts of Dar Sai, the poisoners' steppes of Sarkovy, and many other worlds of the Beyond. Along the way, he must become a counterfeiter, kidnapper, and more in order to fulfill his destiny. The Demon Princes is a thrilling adventure full of vivid characters, fantastic environments, and deadly perils. Jack Vance's writing is masterful, and the cover art by David Russell Read adds to the story's atmosphere. Fans of science fiction will be enthralled by this series, and will be captivated by the intricate plots and complex characters.

Miro Hetzel

9.2
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Miro Hetzel is a special breed of investigator, an Effectuator, one who goes beyond mere fact-finding to produce changes in process and result. He is a private detective of the future, using stealth a...nd a variety of arcane techniques to satisfy his clients. In Freitzke's Turn, Hetzel accepts a commission to recover purloined bits of anatomy belonging to client Conwit Clent. Clent is confident that the thief of his body parts is a certain Faurence Dacre—a schoolhood chum of Miro's, and now a surgeon of near-celebrity status. Dacre, it is revealed, has an unfortunate habit of reinforcing his self-esteem at the expense of others. Hetzel's pursuit leads us on a convoluted chase, and a resolution which involves a surprising twist of medical revenge. Sir Ivon Hacaway, facing cutthroat pricing from a new competitor in the field of miniaturized electronics, employs Hetzel to determine the identity and methods of a commercial threat. On the trail, Miro is led to the hazardous planet Maz and the welcoming arms of the Dogtown Tourist Agency. Maz is the hub of uniquely overlapping sovereignties, where the interests of the alien Liss and Olefract intersect with those of mankind. The nature of Maz's heavily armed and easily annoyed native population—the warlike Gomaz—makes industrial pursuits on the planet improbable, a circumstance which puzzles Hetzel, whose investigations, close shaves, and discoveries make for an exciting yarn. Miro Hetzel is a modern literary private investigator, a self-effacing James Bond of several centuries in the future. He is a master of his craft, using his skills to solve cases that require a special touch. He is a detective of the future, utilizing technology and time to get the job done. With Miro Hetzel, you can rest assured that your case will be solved with the utmost discretion and efficiency.

The Dragon Masters and Other Stories

9.2
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The Dragon Masters and Other Stories is a must-have for any fan of Jack Vance's work. This volume contains three of his best novellas, including the Hugo-winning "The Dragon Masters," the Hugo and Neb...ula-winning "The Last Castle," and the science-fiction gem "The Miracle Workers". Each of these stories is a thrilling adventure of humanity in crisis, showcasing Vance's stylistic flair, creative ingenuity, wit, and storytelling skill. This volume is part of the Spatterlight Press Signature Series, released in the centenary of the author's birth. It features a facsimile of Vance's signature, a previously-unpublished photograph, and up-to-date maps. These features make it a great choice for both seasoned Vance collectors and new readers alike. The Dragon Masters and Other Stories is an unforgettable volume that captures the essence of Jack Vance's work. With its unique features and thrilling stories, it is a must-have for any fan of science-fiction.

Marune: Alastor 933

9.2
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Marune: Alastor 933 is a thrilling sci-fi adventure set in a distant corner of the universe. The story follows Pardero, a wanderer with no memory of his past life. He sets out on a quest to discover w...ho he is and to track down the person who stole his memory. His journey takes him to the mysterious planet of Marune, where he is hailed as the Kaiark Efraim, ruler of the shadowed realm. The world of Marune is a dangerous and unpredictable place, with four shifting suns and a host of strange creatures. Pardero must use all of his wits and courage to uncover the secrets of his past and to find his enemy. Along the way, he discovers the truth about the planet's mysterious history and the powerful forces that threaten its future. Marune: Alastor 933 is an engrossing and action-packed sci-fi adventure. With its fast-paced narrative, vivid characters, and imaginative world-building, it is sure to captivate readers of all ages.

The Anome (Durdane)

9.2
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The Anome (Durdane) is a sci-fi novel by Jack King, part of the Durdane trilogy. Set in the distant future on the planet Durdane, the novel follows the life of Gastel Etzwane, a minstrel who lives in ...Shant, a country of cantons each with its own laws and customs. The enforcement of the law is simple, quick, and inevitable: death by decapitation, from an explosive torc clamped around each citizen's neck by authority of a single man – the Anome. For millennia, the Anomes have ruled Shant with an iron fist, and no one has dared to defy them. That is until Gastel Etzwane risks his life to expose the Anome's identity and end the tyranny of these faceless men forever. The Anome is part of the Spatterlight Press Signature Series, Volume 43. It has been released in the centenary of the author's birth, and is based upon the prestigious Vance Integral Edition. Each book in the series bears a facsimile of the author's signature and a previously-unpublished photograph, chosen from family archives for the period the book was written. These unique features will be appreciated by all, from seasoned Vance collector to new reader sampling the spectrum of this author's influential work for the first time.

The Jack Vance Treasury

9
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The Jack Vance Treasury is a must-have for any fan of science fiction and fantasy. The collection includes some of the best stories from Nebula and World Fantasy Grand Master Jack Vance, one of the mo...st influential storytellers of the 20th century. With a Preface by Vance himself and a foreword by long-time Vance reader George R.R. Martin, this single volume showcases the best of Vance’s mid-length and shorter work. The volume includes stories from Vance’s first published work, “The World Thinker” in 1945, to his final novel, Lurulu in 2004. Vance’s acclaimed first book, The Dying Earth, and its sequels helped shape the face of modern heroic fantasy for generations of readers and writers. In more than sixty novels, Vance has done more than any other author to define science fantasy and its preeminent form: the planetary adventure. The Jack Vance Treasury is a perfect introduction to a very special writer. It stands as a capstone to Vance’s career, and is a must-have for any fan of science fiction and fantasy. With a range of inventiveness, versatility and sheer storytelling power, Vance’s work has earned him the Hugo, Nebula, World Fantasy and Edgar awards. Read more and discover the world of Jack Vance!

Lurulu (Ports of Call Book 2)

9
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Lurulu, the second book in the Ports of Call series, is a captivating science fiction novel by SF Grandmaster Jack Vance. Myron Tany, the protagonist, continues his picaresque journey aboard the space... freighter Glicca as supercargo, in search of lurulu, a myth-inspired state of existence that promises fulfillment of heart’s desire. As he travels from world to world, Myron encounters a variety of peculiar civilizations and characters, each with their own unique delights and perils. In this novel, Vance paints a vivid picture of the wonders of space travel, as well as the dangers that come with it. Myron’s journey is filled with adventure and excitement, as he discovers new cultures and civilizations, and encounters strange and mysterious beings. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about life, love, and friendship. Lurulu is a beautiful and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers with a sense of wonder and awe. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit, and a reminder that the most important part of any journey is what happens along the way. With its captivating story and vivid characters, Lurulu is sure to be a timeless classic.

The Jack Vance Lexicon: from Abiloid to Zygage: The Coined Words of Jack Vance

8.8
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The Jack Vance Lexicon is a comprehensive compilation of all of the coined words of Jack Vance, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America Grand Master and winner of numerous sci-fi and fantas...y awards. First published in 1992, this Underwood-Miller first edition of The Jack Vance Lexicon, from Ahulph to Zipangote, has since become something of a Holy Grail for Vance collectors, with rare copies changing hands only occasionally, for tidy sums. In this second edition, now titled The Jack Vance Lexicon, from Abiloid to Zygage, Dan Temianka and a host of tireless Vance scholars have added another 160 entries, revising and re-indexing the 1800 items from the first edition. This comprehensive collection of Vance's neologisms is the ultimate Jack Vance reader's companion, and is now conveniently available to all as a Spatterlight ebook. The Jack Vance Lexicon is an invaluable resource for Vance fans, providing an in-depth look at the vocabulary of this beloved author. It is a must-have for any fan of Jack Vance, and an essential addition to any library. Whether you are an avid reader of Vance's works or a collector of rare editions, The Jack Vance Lexicon is an indispensable reference guide.

The Domains of Koryphon

8.8
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The Domains of Koryphon is a fantasy-adventure novel set in an alternate world of three races- the swift, nomadic Wind-runners, the fierce Uldras, and the aristocratic Outkers. For over two hundred ye...ars, the Outkers have occupied the Alouan lands, living in baronial splendor where Uldra chieftains once ruled. When the self-proclaimed "Gray Prince" leads Uldras in an onslaught to expunge the Outkers from ancestral lands, he faces a challenge from the Outkers, and from history itself. As the war rages, the Outkers must find a way to survive, while the Uldras seek to reclaim their lost glory. This thrilling novel is full of action, intrigue, and complex characters. The plot is fast-paced and unpredictable, with unexpected twists and turns. The Domains of Koryphon is a captivating story of heroism, loyalty, and the courage to stand up for what is right. The stunning cover art by Dylan Carroll captures the spirit of the story perfectly. With its vibrant colors and intricate detail, it is sure to draw readers in and leave them wanting more. The Domains of Koryphon is a must-read for fans of fantasy, adventure, and historical fiction. Its unique setting and captivating characters make it an unforgettable journey, and a great addition to any library.

Big Planet

8.8
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Big Planet is a science fiction novel by Jack Vance, first published in 1958. It tells the story of Claude Glystra, a space engineer who is sent to investigate the planet Big Planet, a world populated... by a variety of alien cultures. Glystra must trek 40,000 miles across the planet's surface to reach the Earth Enclave, the only safe haven on the planet. Along the way, he must survive the dangers of Big Planet, as well as the machinations of the Bajarnum of Beaujolais, who seeks to rule the planet. The novel has been re-released as a part of the Spatterlight Press Signature Series, a collection of Vance's works that feature newly-written forewords, up-to-date maps, facsimiles of the author's signature, and previously-unpublished photographs chosen from family archives. Big Planet is a must-read for any science fiction fan, and a great way to experience the work of one of the most influential authors of the genre.

The Moon Moth and Other Stories

8.8
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The Moon Moth and Other Stories is a collection of stories by Jack Vance, one of the most influential science fiction authors of all time. Spanning from 1951 to 1973, this collection contains some of ...Vance's earliest works and features stories such as Ullward’s Retreat, The New Prime (originally published as Brain of the Galaxy), The Men Return, Dodkin’s Job, the classic Moon Moth, Green Magic, Alfred’s Ark, Sulwen’s Planet, and Rumfuddle. This collection is part of the Spatterlight Press Signature Series, released in the centenary of the author's birth. Each book in the series contains a facsimile of the author's signature, a previously-unpublished photograph, and up-to-date maps. The collection also includes forewords contributed by a distinguished group of authors. The Moon Moth and Other Stories is a must-have for any science fiction fan. It offers a glimpse into the early works of one of the most influential authors in the genre and contains stories that trace the path that would lead Vance to the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. With its unique features, this collection is sure to be appreciated by both seasoned Vance collectors and new readers sampling the spectrum of this author's work for the first time.

Suldrun's Garden (Lyonesse)

8.6
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Suldrun's Garden is the first book in Jack Vance's epic Lyonesse series. Set in a mythical archipelago across the western sea before the time of Arthur, the story follows a doomed princess, a disposse...ssed prince, a wicked king, a vengeful magician, and a melancholy witch. The story is full of fairies, ogres, changelings, scheming barons, wanderers who are not what they seem, robbers, orphans, and a race of hardbitten warriors at war with all humanity. Politics, intrigue, plots and assassinations, battles and sieges, all come together to create a masterpiece of adventure and intrigue. This edition of Suldrun's Garden has been released in the centenary of the author's birth, and is part of the Spatterlight Press Signature Series. It is based upon the prestigious Vance Integral Edition and includes up-to-date maps, a facsimile of the author's signature, and a previously-unpublished photograph chosen from family archives for the period the book was written. It also includes forewords contributed by a distinguished group of authors. Suldrun's Garden is a must-read for any fan of fantasy and adventure. This edition is the perfect way to experience Jack Vance's classic work for the first time, or for the seasoned Vance collector to enjoy.

Big Planet

8.6
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Big Planet is a science fiction novel by Jack Vance, first published in 1952. It tells the story of Claude Glystra and his mission to investigate the strange world of Big Planet, a world populated by ...a diverse range of societies and cultures. Glystra's mission is complicated by the tyrannical rule of Charley Lysidder, the "Bajarnum of Beaujolais", who seeks to control the planet. Glystra must brave the dangers of Big Planet in order to reach the safety of Earth Enclave, a journey of over 40,000 miles. Big Planet is a thrilling, action-packed adventure story filled with strange and exotic creatures, mysterious societies, and a wide range of settings and locations. Vance's writing is vivid and evocative, creating a vivid and immersive world for the reader to explore. The novel is also a thought-provoking exploration of power, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Big Planet is a must-read for any fan of science fiction.

This Is Me, Jack Vance! Or More Properly, This Is I

8.2
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This Is Me, Jack Vance! Or More Properly, This Is I is an informal trip through the life of Jack Vance, one of the most celebrated science fiction and fantasy authors of all time. Starting with his me...mories of childhood in a privileged San Francisco family, Vance leads readers through the lean times of picking fruit during the Great Depression, his pranks at Cal, his experiences at sea during World War II, his early writing, and life in California in general, before marrying Norma. The book also chronicles his hard-working adulthood, distinguished by writing, travel, and colorfully noisy parties, as well as his deep love of traditional jazz music. Fans of Vance's writing will enjoy glimpses of the events which shaped and colored his fiction. This Is Me, Jack Vance! also includes a photo section with 65 pictures, as well as cover art by Howard Kistler. This Is Me, Jack Vance! is a must-read for any fan of Vance's work, or anyone interested in learning more about one of the most influential authors of the 20th century. With its combination of personal stories, photographs, and anecdotes, it provides an intimate portrait of a life devoted to writing, travel, and music.

Planet of Adventure: City of the Chasch, Servants of the Wankh, The Dirdir, The Pnume

9.2
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Welcome to Planet of Adventure: City of the Chasch, Servants of the Wankh, The Dirdir, The Pnume, a thrilling journey of discovery and danger. Adam Reith, the sole survivor of a space mission, finds ...himself stranded on the distant planet Tschai, a world inhabited by warring alien cultures and human slaves taken early in Earth's history. To escape the planet and warn Earth of the deadly existence of Tschai, Reith must battle his way through a landscape of baroque cities, haunted wastelands, sumptuous palaces, and riotous inns, encountering deadly wastrels, murderous aliens, dastardly villains, and conniving scoundrels. Throughout his adventure, Reith will be presented with opportunities to save the random beauty in need of rescue. If he succeeds, he will gain an ally and a chance to escape the planet. If you're looking for a thrilling adventure, Planet of Adventure: City of the Chasch, Servants of the Wankh, The Dirdir, The Pnume is the perfect read. Follow Reith's journey as he battles his way through a world of danger and mystery.

The Dying Earth: Tales of the Dying Earth, Book 1

8.6
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The Dying Earth: Tales of the Dying Earth, Book 1 is a collection of stories that introduces readers to a world of adventure, mystery, and beauty. Written by renowned author Jack Vance, this book is c...onsidered to be one of the most powerful fantasy/science-fiction concepts in the history of the genre. Readers will be transported to a distant future where the Earth is dying and humanity is struggling against the certainty of an entropic resolution. Vance’s lyrically described fantastic landscapes will captivate readers with their beauty and mystery. From the twk-men who ride dragonflies and trade information for salt, to the melancholy deodands who feed on human flesh, every being is morally ambiguous and will challenge readers to explore their own morality. The Dying Earth: Tales of the Dying Earth, Book 1 is a must-read for anyone looking for an escape into a world of adventure and beauty. With its captivating characters and landscapes, Vance’s stories will leave readers in awe of the fragility and transience of all things. So, don’t wait, explore the Dying Earth today!

The Green Pearl (Lyonesse Book 2)

9.2
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