I bought this book because I enjoyed Jeffrey Kafer’s performance in the Starship’s Mage series (which I highly recommend if you like the Solar Clipper books, by the way).
I have now listened to every book available in this series, and I recommend it to anyone who likes creative fiction, coming-of-age (Bildungsroman), romance, space opera, naval stories, sci-fi, well I guess anyone really.
I disagree with those who think Jeffrey Kafer’s narration isn’t enthusiastic enough. He presents everyone in a believable matter. He doesn’t ham it up. I mean, the stories take place on ships that have an air of formality that is almost military in nature. Given the adaptability of the protagonist, it’s not surprising that he adopts a deliberate way of speaking.
Okay, now I really have to say something in particular after listening to every Solar Clipper book. I sometimes feel like the series should really be called “An Amateur Food and Coffee Connoisseur’s Tale from the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper; Also People Eating.” Seriously, I have never encountered a book series that had so much plot revolving around meals and coffee. If Nathan Lowell didn’t make sure the protagonist had a jogging fixation (and later Tai Chi), he would be 300kg by the end of the first book.
The protagonist, Ishmael Wang, really is very likable, even if he is a borderline Mary Sue (Gary Stu?). Nonetheless, you will still find yourself rooting for his successes. I’m impressed with how the author is able to convey modesty so compellingly through a character who is rather naturally talented. The series so far follows Ishmael’s life from the age of 18 to 40, which isn’t at all middle age in this medically advanced future. The character ages well and in a believable manner. Almost all of the characters have real depth. Moreover, the author should be applauded for their gender and sexuality awareness.
I appreciate how the advanced science, technology, and engineering is portrayed. The author doesn’t get too hung up on it, and he finds a way to describe these elements within the framework of the plot. I believe that this really helps the reader understand the concepts even better than most alternatives. You will find yourself having no trouble orientating yourself in this theoretical future. The only thing I wish we know more about is the planets. Unsurprisingly, most of the story takes place on ships or in orbitals. It isn’t until the next series that the author even hints at what’s going on planet-side in most cases. Earth is only mentioned in passing as Old Earth. It isn’t encountered at all. We have no idea where it is in relation to the star systems visited. This is a bit reminiscent of Hyperion.
Give the book a shot. If you end up liking it, you’ll be in for a nice long ride.
Thank you Mr. Lowell for your efforts in creating this universe. I look forward to the next edition.