The Serpent Sea

★ 9.00 / 8

Cover art by Steve Argyle.

Moon, once a solitary wanderer, has become consort to Jade, sister queen of the Indigo Cloud court. Together, they travel with their people on a pair of flying ships in hopes of finding a new home for their colony. Moon finally feels like he's found a tribe where he belongs.

But when the travelers reach the ancestral home of Indigo Cloud, shrouded within the trunk of a mountain-sized tree, they discover a blight infecting its core. Nearby they find the remains of the invaders who may be responsible, as well as evidence of a devastating theft. This discovery sends Moon and the hunters of Indigo Cloud on a quest for the heartstone of the tree – a quest that will lead them far away, across the Serpent Sea...

In this followup to The Cloud Roads, Martha Wells returns with a world-spanning odyssey, a mystery that only provokes more questions – and the adventure of a lifetime.

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Updated 03/30/2025

Category: Fantasy, High Fantasy

Release date: December 23, 2011

Martha Wells

Martha Wells is a groundbreaking author whose imaginative world-building and unique characters have made her a standout voice in the world of science fiction and fantasy. Known for her ability to blend intricate plots with deep emotional resonance, Wells has earned a devoted following of readers who eagerly anticipate each new release. Her books, particularly the Murderbot Diaries series, have garnered widespread acclaim, catapulting her into the spotlight as one of the most celebrated authors in speculative fiction today.

Born and raised in Texas, Wells discovered her love for storytelling at an early age, drawing inspiration from the science fiction and fantasy classics that shaped her youth. Her passion for creating rich, complex worlds is evident in every one of her novels, where she effortlessly weaves together action, humor, and introspective character development. Her writing style is characterized by sharp dialogue, thought-provoking themes, and a deep understanding of the human condition—qualities that make her works accessible to both dedicated genre fans and newcomers alike.

Wells' most famous creation, the Murderbot Diaries, follows the journey of a self-aware, emotionally complex android navigating a world filled with human conflict and ethical dilemmas. The series has earned her widespread recognition, including a Hugo Award and a Nebula Award, cementing her place as a leading voice in the genre. The Murderbot Diaries explores themes of identity, autonomy, and belonging, resonating with readers who appreciate stories that push the boundaries of both science fiction and character-driven narratives.

Beyond Murderbot, Wells has authored several other well-regarded works, including The Books of the Raksura series, which has also earned praise for its intricate world-building and compelling characters. Her ability to craft immersive settings, whether in futuristic landscapes or fantastical realms, showcases her versatility as a writer and her dedication to creating deeply engaging stories.

Wells' influence extends beyond her published works—she has also become a key figure in promoting diversity and inclusion within speculative fiction. Her storytelling reflects a wide array of perspectives, and her characters are often portrayed with layers of complexity that challenge traditional tropes.

Living today in Texas, Wells continues to write stories that captivate, challenge, and entertain readers around the world. Whether exploring the nature of artificial intelligence or delving into the lives of mythical creatures, Martha Wells is a master at creating stories that not only entertain but also make us reflect on the complexities of existence.