Sep 12, 2026
Excellent
Prior to reading this I have read one story by Richard in the anthology Cracked and have picked up several anthologies he has contributed to, that I have not got around to reading yet. After reading this and doing some research on all his books, several have jumped way up in my ‘to be read pile’. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read. And this one is no less so. In fact it is one of my favourite book I have read so far this year from the 268 I have read during the first half of 2023. I have been aware of Richard and his works for a few years now. It is my loss that I did not dig into his works earlier. This is a high octane tale from beginning to end. It reminds me of some of Heinlien’s Lazarus Long stories, Harry Harrison’s Stainless Steel Rat series, the Dex books by Karina Fabian, and even Han Solo, a lot of action, a lot of guns, a great adventure. The plot is well crafted. The characters well crafted, including the hero, the princess, the mentor and even the bad guys. Galen is one of those characters that will just stay with you. He has morals, integrity and a strong sense of right and wrong. He is willing to make the big plays, even if it means potentially sacrificing himself. He will do what must to do the right and just. Princess Rhiannon is strong and determined to not let what done to her or planned against her determine her choices and her future. She will face struggles but does so bravely and with a grit and determination. If you have not read anything by Paolinelli don’t make my mistake. Pick some up and give them a read now. There is a lot to choose from and I am sure you will be entertained. This was a great read. It is a book that leaves you desperate for book 2 and hoping that the series will extend beyond the two currently available. A great read I can easily recommend. It is a fantastic story in a classic Science Fiction style a great space opera. A great story written large. I can easily recommend this volume to fans of science fiction and adventure stories. A great read and the first of many Paolinelli novels I will be reading!
