This controversial adult novel by the award-winning author of YA science fiction Sylvia Engdahl deals with government-imposed health care, with end-of-life issues, and with the so-called "paranormal" powers of the human mind. Despite being set in the distant future on another world, it is not intended just for science fiction fans and will appeal to a wide range of readers who question the dominant medical philosophy of today's society or who value personal freedom of choice. (Unlike Engdahl's earlier novels, it is not appropriate for Young Adult audiences.)

Visit www.stewardsoftheflame.com for a video trailer, detailed background information on topics dealt with in the story, a book club discussion guide, and more review excerpts.

"Grips the attention with the raw immediacy of the problems. . . . An inquiry and commentary on the nature of what it is to be human, and where evolution can take us from here. It asks the sort of questions only SF can pose, and paints a vivid picture of where failing to answer those questions might lead.... Stewards is the kind of SF I've been craving!" -Jacqueline Lichtenberg, author of the Sime/Gen series, Monthly Aspectatrian

"A taut, well-paced science fiction work ... that transcends the genre's traditional subdivisions and leads us into a world as relevant as today but as enthralling as tomorrow." -Paul H. Smith, author of Reading the Enemy' Mind: Inside Star Gate

"The story is compelling, and drew me in from the first few pages.... Stewards of the Flame is a thought-provoking novel that may make you question the authority and direction of modern Western medical practices. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading genre fiction with some substance to it." -Anna Creech, Blogcritics

"A brilliant twist on dystopianism.... The book builds just the right amount of tension, and shows the stark reality of benevolent tyranny, one that any so-called democracy could creep towards quite easily." -Anders Monsen, Prometheus

"Brims with startlingly intelligent, well-developed ideas about mankind, civilisation, and technology.... [Engdahl] is persuasive rather than dogmatic and writes with intelligence and vigour, whether she is exploring the human mind or critiquing Undine's medical dystopia.... This is mind-stretching speculative fiction for the thinking person.... The ending of Stewards of the Flame is one of the best endings I've ever come across. It is absolutely right for the book." -Jennifer Mo, Rambles

"Expository sections ... are more than made up for by Engdahl’s unmatched ability to combine intellectual speculation, moral forthrightness, and narrative suspense.... The end is both exciting and searingly moving. Readers who enjoy the more adult works of Robert A. Heinlein or C. S. Lewis should enjoy this novel.... [It] is eminently readable, indeed hard to put down.... It also has the potential to bring this undervalued author the wide reading public her talent merits." -Nicholas Birns, author of Understanding Anthony Powell