Pord: A World of Water by William Kuehne is set in a universe facing a water imbalance, and the Conglomerate plans to extract water from the submerged planet of Pord, jeopardizing its inhabitants' lives. On Pord, Nish and Santi encounter a dangerous red string parasite, while their daughter Ura becomes involved with Rimen visitors. On a spaceship, representatives await the Conglomerate's arrival to secure water transport, with resistance when Valuka reveals the plan to extract water and relocate Pord's people. As reality fractures, Dunite gains newfound abilities, pressure mounts on Valuka, Ura discovers ancient pyramids and an underwater civilization, and the brutal Hasta continue their mission to eradicate opposition. With massive waves generated by the Northern and Southern vices approaching, the situation remains uncertain as the fate of Pord clings to sustaining life at all costs.

“It is for the good of the people. The sacrifice of the few will greatly benefit the many. You may never understand, but it is not your place to.” Pord: A World of Water by William Kuehne is a massively ambitious eco-science fiction hybrid novel with multiple characters, alien races, social structures, and political machinations. Pord itself is a fascinating planet that still holds surprises for those who live on it as the mysteries of what thrives in its deepest waters are the same as it is for us, on Earth, where it is considered the last true frontier. I loved how Kuehne uses unique cultural pieces to differentiate those who live on the planet, like the distinctive paddles. This extends to the contributions of all life on Pord to its complex, beautifully cohesive ecology. Kuehne further strengthens the novel's elaborate character development with multiple points of view that impact both what is brewing off the planet and the infighting that is bubbling within it. I can imagine a situation where Earth was facing annihilation and the believability of everyone or everything still disagreeing is pretty solid. Overall, this is a well-written and engrossing story with a great deal to offer.

Pord: A World of Water by William Kuehne deftly crafts a science fiction novel that propels readers into an immersive odyssey across a universe teetering on the edge of discord. With a focus on power dynamics, ecological guardianship, and the intricate facets of humanity, this mesmerizing opus delivers an impactful narrative that lingers long after the last page. The novel revolves around the Conglomerate, a formidable entity driven by the ambition to tap the boundless waters of Pord, an immense planet, and distribute its life-saving elixir across the cosmos. Yet, this grand endeavor shadows a grave consequence — the potential extinction of Pord, its vibrant inhabitants, and its irreplaceable ecosystem. The interplay of supremacy, ecological stewardship, and human intricacies, coupled with a web of factions entrenched in their divergent pursuits, crafts a multi-layered stage for this tale.

William Kuehne's prose in Pord is excellent, guiding readers through an impeccably woven narrative that provokes contemplation. His vivid storytelling unveils lush landscapes and the intricate network of life inhabiting Pord's dominion. From gargantuan jellyfish to enigmatic squad creatures, each entity enriches the planet's tableau. Amidst this captivating backdrop, factions with intricate histories vie for dominance, their alliances and confrontations lending dynamic hues to the narrative. Kuehne's characters are sculpted with care, each contributing a distinct lens to the unfolding drama. Valuka, the Conglomerate's calculating representative, epitomizes the unwavering quest for equilibrium, regardless of sacrifices. On Pord's side, Ura emerges as an unexpected hero, plunging into the planet's enigmas and embracing a pivotal role in its safeguarding. The novel harmoniously interlaces intricate themes like culture, spirituality, and interconnectedness. Distinguished by its artful choreography of supremacy, ecological advocacy, and the human essence, Pord champions science fiction's potential to probe the depths of philosophical and ethical quandaries. Kuehne's work thrills the intellect while stoking the imagination, heralding a tale that gracefully resonates beyond its final page.