Stormqueen!

About “Stormqueen!”

The novel is the first in a series set on Darkover, a planet under the Bloody Sun. It explores the planet's history before the arrival of Terrans, focusing on the Ages of Chaos. During this time, the matrix—a mental-physical force—was discovered and misused, leading to conflict between rising domains. This power led to technological advancements that mirrored the worst aspects of Terra. The story takes place during a period when genetic tampering created individuals with extraordinary abilities, including psi monsters. The heir of the Hasturs faces his destiny through a witch-woman and a mutant girl he promises to protect. The novel was published in 1978 by Marion Zimmer Bradley.