Salvage by R. J. Theodore

My enthusiasm continues for this new series. This is the second book of the trilogy and….I enjoyed it too.   The setting is a planet, Peridot, that has suffered some sort of cataclysmic event that has sundered the planet into diverse cultures.   The interaction between sections is primarily a craft that appears to be the marriage between a traditional ocean-going vessel and a hot air balloon.   The alien Yu’Nyun and the homegrown Veritors undercutting each other while pretending support is one of the underpinnings for this book.

 The conflict between the various gods and the simula that is the embodiment of the planet itself leads to further conflict.   Tempest a rebel organization with its own goals adds to the complexity of the plot. Once again though, the plot centers on a crew of misfitting individuals.   Captain Talis, Tisker, Dug, and Sophia are provided depth and color and all have a major role in the tale.  The relationship of captain to crew changes as the story progresses. 

Captain Talis privately exhibits misgivings about her leadership while facing the world with bravado.   Theodore gives the characters flaws and personalities.   I admire the style and thoroughness of her work.

This is an adventure as well as a world-changing experience.

I highly recommend it.

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Perilous Times by Thomas D. Lee

Arthurian rubbish as described by the author’s brother.  Joe, I disagree, it was Arthurian for sure but rubbish, nope, not at all.  Lee fills his pages with despair and finally with hope.   In a world crashing and burning, the story takes place in the UK and features the likes of Lancelot and Kay, Morgan and Arthur as well as a Einsteinish Merlin.

As far as bit players, I think Barry, the squirrel, was my favorite.  Lee’s take on the protection of the planet leads to an uncomfortable look at fractionalization and greed.  In some ways, it is an uncomfortable reflection of current affairs without the hope of a Round Table resurrection.

I enjoyed the book and the message of hope. 

This book may have been received free of charge from a publisher or a publicist. That will NEVER have a bearing on my recommendations. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases if you click on a purchasing link below.#CommissionsEarned

War Horses : Chevalier (War Horses) by Scott Warren

 This is reminiscent of the Mech Warriors game I played decades ago.  The story is focused on Vandal and the Upright “tank” that he jockeys.   The Chevaliers are a mercenary outfit that is contracted to protect a government dealing with a rebellion. 

Vandal is a wrench turner who takes pride in seeing his Uprights run flawlessly.  Of course, lack of parts and money means that he does the best he can with what he can get.   

Vandal finds himself faced with decisions that he did not plan on needing to make.   Pulled from a slum and given a place, Vandal feels that the Chevaliers are his family and that they deserve his best.  Loyalty, camaraderie and fragility are aptly displayed by the author.

I enjoyed the book, can’t wait for the next one.

 

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The Middling Affliction: The Conradverse Chronicles, Book 1 by Alex Shvartsman

Think Harry Dresden without any innate magic.   Shvartsman has created a character that has a similar snarky personality with more courage as he has to rely on his wits to survive in his chosen profession.

Conrad has a secret that if exposed would lead to the termination, of work, friends, and life itself.   Needless to say, Conrad is careful with offering trust.  Conrad's vigilante life is based on his need to run toward danger instead of away.   He cares for people and despite his apparent disdain he consistently puts his life in jeopardy for others.

The plot was entertaining and complex enough to maintain interest.

I really enjoyed the book and recommend it. 

This book may have been received free of charge from a publisher or a publicist. That will NEVER have a bearing on my recommendations. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases if you click on a purchasing link below.#CommissionsEarned