The Scavenger Door

Intergalactically renowned finder Fergus Ferguson is on a mission to save the solar system in Palmer’s lighthearted but meandering third Finder Chronicles adventure (after Driving the Deep). While spending some time in 25th-century Scotland with his newfound little sister, Isla, Fergus’s alien bioware leads him to find several fragments of a mysterious device. The discovery prompts a visit from an Asiig alien, and Fergus learns that the fragments are parts of a key that could open a portal to a dimension filled with predatory creatures called Vraet. Several factions seek to control this key, and Fergus must ensure that the fragments don’t fall into the wrong hands. With old friends at his side, he travels across Earth collecting the remaining pieces, occasionally bringing Isla with him on heists that, while dangerous, don’t do much in the way of building momentum. Still, Fergus is as charming and witty as ever, and his relationship with Isla adds depth to an otherwise repetitive outing. This Earthbound entry in the Finder series may underwhelm new readers, but has plenty to please series fans. Agent: Joshua Bilmes, JABberwocky Literary. (Aug.)