A review by timstretton
The Pharaoh Contract by Ray Aldridge

5.0

Ray Aldridge's undeservedly neglected sf novel is likely to appeal to fans of mid-period Jack Vance. The omnicompetent protagonist Ruiz Aw will remind the reader of Vance heroes Kirth Gersen and particularly Adam Reith. Few writers shine in comparison with Vance but Aldridge comes closer than most. Aldridge also brings Vance to mind with his crisp dialogue and detached narrative voice.

1950s pulp-style fiction is out of vogue these days, but when done as well as this, it packs a real punch. First- class entertainment.