Westwind (novel)

Westwind is a science fiction novel written by Jack L. Chalker. It is the fourth book in his Well World series, following Midnight at the Well of Souls, Exiles at the Well of Souls, and Quest for the Well of Souls.

The novel continues the adventures of Nathan Brazil and Alice Washington as they navigate the complexities of the Well World, a planet divided into over 1400 distinct zones, each inhabited by a different sentient species and possessing unique physical properties and technological levels. Westwind focuses on their efforts to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Well World's purpose and the nature of its creator, the enigmatic Markovians.

The plot of Westwind involves exploration of several new Well World zones, each presenting unique challenges and revelations. Brazil and Alice continue to gather information and allies in their quest to understand the Well World and its influence on the wider galaxy. They encounter various factions and individuals with their own agendas, making alliances and enemies as they progress.

Key themes in Westwind, as with the other Well World novels, include the nature of identity, the ethics of genetic engineering and societal control, and the impact of advanced technology on civilization. The novel also explores the complexities of intercultural relations and the challenges of understanding vastly different perspectives.