But the really cool thing is, HE LETS ME USE HIS MAIN CHARACTERS A lot of authors don't let you do that if you're writing in their universe, but Rich does. I try to double-check with him before making any big decisions, though. We plotstorm, where we come up with the basic plot concept for the story arc, then he turns me loose.

So I don't have to give him an outline for approval. We both have science backgrounds, we're politically compatible, we both write fast, and we're both pantsers - we don't use outlines. I like his writing in general, and the stories get me caught up in them. He's easy to work with, a great writer, and comes up with some really cool universes and characters. This is your second outing in one of Rich Weyand's universes. In this case, it follows Nick Ashton through his entire career in the Imperial Police, with the changes in the Empire as backdrop to the story. It allows for more story development and more epic story arcs. The Imperial Police Trilogy parallels the first six main-plot EMPIRE books, and the end of the trilogy will lead into the next main-plot EMPIRE book. He graduates the Imperial Police Academy late in the reign of Ilithyia I, only to find that IPD Headquarters is corrupt. Dominick Ashton has always dreamed of being a detective. Can he do the job he's trained to do without perverting his honor, or will crooked cops take him out instead? And what will happen when he's called upon to solve a case for the Empress herself? AN INTERVIEW WITH STEPHANIE OSBORN EMPIRE: Imperial Police runs parallel to EMPIRE: Usurper and EMPIRE: Tyrant? Yes.

Unfortunately, in an Empire full of corruption, treason, and upheaval, that's one of the most corrupt organizations of them all. All Nick Ashton ever wanted to be was a good cop Dominick Ashton is a rookie cop in the headquarters of Her Majesty's Imperial Police.

Starsong by Stephanie Osborn