Gods and Pawns

Gods and Pawns is a collection of science fiction short stories set in Baker's "Company" universe, where immortal cyborg operatives work throughout history to preserve artifacts for their 24th-century corporate masters. Each story follows different Company agents as they navigate missions across various time periods, from 17th-century Yucatan to 1990s Los Angeles. The stories explore the complex relationships between the cyborg operatives and their work, mixing historical events with science fiction elements. Key characters include Literature Specialist Lewis, Security Tech Porfirio, and Botanist Mendoza, who each face unique challenges while maintaining their cover and completing Company assignments. The collection spans multiple genres within its science fiction framework, incorporating elements of historical fiction, mystery, and adventure. Settings range from the Amazon rainforest to the California Gold Rush, with each location meticulously grounded in historical detail. The stories examine themes of immortality, duty, and the nature of humanity, questioning what it means to be human in a world where artificial beings live among us. Baker's work explores the tension between corporate interests and individual conscience, as well as the price of eternal life.

Readers found this collection of Company novellas engaging but uneven compared to Baker's novels. Many felt it filled gaps in the larger series while providing deeper looks at familiar characters. Likes: - Strong character development, especially for Joseph and Lewis - Mix of humor and darker themes - Clear writing style that moves quickly - "To the Land Beyond the Sunset" highlighted as standout story Dislikes: - Stories vary in quality and impact - Some plots feel incomplete or rushed - Collection doesn't stand well on its own without prior series knowledge - Final story "Standing in His Light" received most criticism for pacing Ratings: Goodreads: 4.04/5 (370 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (21 ratings) Several reviewers mentioned this works better as supplementary material for existing fans rather than an entry point to the series. As one Amazon reviewer noted: "These stories enhance the broader Company universe but aren't essential to understanding the main plot."

The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O. by Neal Stephenson, Nicole Galland This novel combines historical time travel with bureaucratic intrigue as government agents move through different eras to complete classified missions for mysterious corporate overlords.

This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar Two rival agents from competing time-travel organizations conduct missions across history while developing an intricate relationship through messages left in time.

Just One Damned Thing After Another by Jodi Taylor The novel follows historians who travel through time to observe historical events for a secret organization, facing dangers and ethical dilemmas across different eras.

The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman A secret agent of the mysterious Library travels through alternate worlds and time periods to collect important books, balancing organizational duties with personal ethics.

The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North The story follows an immortal being who retains memories through multiple lifetimes while navigating a secret society of others like him across different historical periods.

🔮 Kage Baker initially developed The Company series while working as a theater instructor, drawing inspiration from her experience directing historical reenactments. 🤖 The concept of immortal cyborgs in the series was partly influenced by Baker's fascination with the Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca, who disappeared for eight years in early colonial America. ⏳ The Company series spans approximately 500,000 years of human history, from prehistoric times to the 24th century. 📚 Before her death in 2010, Baker wrote 9 full-length novels and multiple short story collections in The Company universe, earning her a Nebula Award nomination. 🎭 Several stories in "Gods and Pawns" were inspired by real historical events and locations Baker personally visited during her research, including ancient Mayan sites in the Yucatan Peninsula.