The Oortian Summer
Richard Rydon
Lulu Publishing (2007)
ISBN 9781430313298

“The Oortian Summer” begins in the year 2024. Except for the year and some advancement of technology, not much is different than our own times, especially as far as human relationships go. Luper, one of the male characters, is attempting to complete his PhD while working under the direction of a scientist whose own moment of glory has faded. This scientist is Professor Walter Hally. He does everything in his power to thwart Luper’s attempts to complete his doctoral dissertation work. He also has a problem with stealing Luper’s data and summaries and presenting them for his own recognition. Luper feels very frustrated. In spite of the bad Professor, he does develop some good working and personal relationships with his colleagues. They try to help him undo the damage that the professor is causing. These relationships and the solutions that these people build as a team, lend a great deal of credence and depth to the story.

In the meantime, while all this is happening, the team discovers that there are two large comets approaching earth. The presence of these comets is causing unusual changes in the planet. Luper and his colleague desperately attempt to find a way to deal with this situation without causing massive destruction on the planet. Their solution to the problem is incredibly creative and unique.

Once again, I enjoyed reading another excellent science fiction novel by the scientist/writer Richard Rydon. It would be preferable to read his novels in order of their appearance; however, it is not necessary. I actually found myself going back in time while reading “The Oortian Summer,” enjoying learning more about how these characters developed and evolved for his second story.

Once again, I highly recommend that sci-fi fans read this novel by this author. I think that fans of true science will also enjoy the creativity that Rydon uses to incorporate true science into science fiction. Do not miss out on this one! If you are looking for the perfect gift for a SciFi fan, this is the one.