Shaping the Dawn — Sheila Finch

The strange races of the planet Llia were created by the Venn, genetic engineers banished from Earth for tampering with human lives. Centuries later, the peoples of Llia have begun the struggle for control of their own destiny. In a world torn asunder by war and rebellion, a courageous young woman of mixed heritage holds the key to Llia's future as the last of the Shapers face justice at the hands of their creations.

"An engrossing work that brings to science fiction a genuine sense of the evolution of a strange society. With grace and pace, the novels move toward a satisfying climx without stinting on action or idea. A remarkable work" -- Gregory Benford