Not as good as the first; a bit mary sue and harem

This sequel starts as delightful as the first but runs into mary sue territory at about the halfway mark. There is also a somewhat cringe-worthy path into harem territory. The writing style is still great and Jeffrey Kafer is as great a narrator as always though. I just think the story is no longer for me, despite it being well told.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Great book 2!

It was nice to be back with Ismail and the crew of the Lowis and I really did enjoy everything that happened here.

Jeffrey Kafer, does an outstanding job with the character voices and emotion he puts in. He's a joy to listen to, (so much so I have the complete Exodus trilogy on at the moment now too haha)


I must admit though, I wanted this book/listen to be a bit longer, or in this one something to go wrong, even if it were an environmental problem, but it didn't and I honestly think that was the only thing letting it down here. Just not quite enough conflict. Of course, that being said, this series really isn't like anything I've ever read/listened to before. It's not the gun toting action packed Sci Fi SO where aliens invade and everything goes wrong, so it was kind of nice for there to be all internal character developments here.

Contains Spoilers ------


One of the many great things about listening to Ismail is the facts that we're watching and learning more about him with every episode, shocked to hear he wasn't a virgin, as I thought he would have been for sure, but I was okay with it.

This book focussed on his new job, the people around him which we really get to know a lot better here and in his own developments. There's a new crew member on board, and Ismail's caring nature brings the very hurt Sarah into her own. I'm glad of this, but again I think there was just a little bit to much of a 'good thing' here, most people who are battered, used and abused carry a fair few more demons than the author lets rip here, and either she's going to blow up in the next book or she really should have had an episode to counteract all the good that goes on.

The trip to the tailor was very interesting, they went in as friends but came out as more. I can see that. 3 young eligible women cooing over an 18 years old in his underwear... lol must have been a sight to see either way, but there's lots of growth here, and it fits for their relationship.

I do wonder though if Ish, is actually really sorry that he and Big B can't get together, or one of the others, or is he just not sure at all what he wants... there's still so much room for him to grow and do things, I wonder.

The fact he's questioning his own life here, is also very good and I'm glad he's also the people around him who care about him to make him question himself. I think he is destined for more, and having not read the books, I'm only guessing. But the mention of the academy and becoming an officer... ooooo squee. I can totally see Ismail Wong a Captain of a great ship! go Ishmail!

Anyway, just those two little cravats. But can't wait for more :)

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

Awesome book of discovery and awakening

Love this series - i listened to the book on iTunes 4 or 5 times now. This is the first time listening to the book on audible. It’s just a great story about life on a cargo ship in space. The book makes me want to get to crafting and start my business empire too…
I still prefer Nathan Lowell’s reading of the book but it might be coz I have been listening to it for years.
I will get all the books in the series to support an author who has been entertaining me for years!

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Well performed and easy on the eard

I actually prefer this book to the first one. Ishmael feels a little bit more real. Although he still appears to be very fortunate through a number of improbable coincidences and encounters. But setting those aside this is an easy listen covering day to day starship life. No worry about the mechanics or navigation. Just starship routine.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Just gets Better and Better

If I had to describe this book, I would say it was along the lines of a space age Walton’s, the only difference being, no-one is related.

The storyline draws you into each of the crew members’ lives, both young and old. It is unusual not to find character you dislike somewhere; but, so far, everyone is so ‘nice’!

A very pleasant, easy going listen.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Nolonger for me

Quite enjoyed book one, though it was a little domestic. This one has moved on to the relationships and is too Mills and Boon build-up for my liking. I cannot carry-on listening just because I like the narrator.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!