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Pax Galactica #1
Doctor Galaxy
A previous cover edition for this ASIN can be found here
New ER doctor Alexi Sur always intended to join an aid agency. She'd just expected to work among humans. But when the Pax Galactica Corps becomes her only option (don't ask - the debts aren't hers, but the family is. Much to her regret), Alexi finds herself traveling the galaxy and learning alien physiology and culture, all while becoming a reality TV star.
Being pursued by camera drones and starring in her very own Welcome-to-the-Universe documentary was never on Alexi's to do list. She's positive the show will flop. After all, Alexi is boring. That's why her boyfriend left her for her stepsister.
But as trillions of aliens tune in to watch Alexi discover the universe in Doctor Galaxy, what she discovers is the existential threat facing humanity.
Major Soren Agha already knows about the danger. He's currently playing peacekeeper for the Eripi of the Pariah Sector whose tragic fate could be humanity's: conquered, exploited, lost.
Can one dedicated doctor save humanity? Can she, as Soren believes, also save the Eripi? And would anyone really notice if she sabotaged a couple of pesky camera drones?
***
Doctor Galaxy is a medical romantic comedy and a space opera. Reality TV has never been so alien!
New ER doctor Alexi Sur always intended to join an aid agency. She'd just expected to work among humans. But when the Pax Galactica Corps becomes her only option (don't ask - the debts aren't hers, but the family is. Much to her regret), Alexi finds herself traveling the galaxy and learning alien physiology and culture, all while becoming a reality TV star.
Being pursued by camera drones and starring in her very own Welcome-to-the-Universe documentary was never on Alexi's to do list. She's positive the show will flop. After all, Alexi is boring. That's why her boyfriend left her for her stepsister.
But as trillions of aliens tune in to watch Alexi discover the universe in Doctor Galaxy, what she discovers is the existential threat facing humanity.
Major Soren Agha already knows about the danger. He's currently playing peacekeeper for the Eripi of the Pariah Sector whose tragic fate could be humanity's: conquered, exploited, lost.
Can one dedicated doctor save humanity? Can she, as Soren believes, also save the Eripi? And would anyone really notice if she sabotaged a couple of pesky camera drones?
***
Doctor Galaxy is a medical romantic comedy and a space opera. Reality TV has never been so alien!
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2022
693 people are currently reading
1350 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Schwartz
110 books573 followersAustralian science fiction and fantasy author.
Avid reader.
Jenny Schwartz has a degree in sociology and history, and a lifelong fascination with understanding people. Her character-driven science fiction and fantasy novels explore other worlds and how people navigate strange situations and complicated emotions, while retaining their sense of self. Her plots are twisty and unexpected.
***
I've curated my bookshelf to share books which I hope readers of Caldryn Parliament will enjoy. With the older books, please be aware that they are a product of their times and read with care.
Avid reader.
Jenny Schwartz has a degree in sociology and history, and a lifelong fascination with understanding people. Her character-driven science fiction and fantasy novels explore other worlds and how people navigate strange situations and complicated emotions, while retaining their sense of self. Her plots are twisty and unexpected.
***
I've curated my bookshelf to share books which I hope readers of Caldryn Parliament will enjoy. With the older books, please be aware that they are a product of their times and read with care.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
April 4, 2023
Okay, I did really enjoy this book, but the description says it is a "medical romantic comedy and a space opera" which is a half truth. It is a space opera, it is medical, but it is not a romantic comedy. I'm not going to dive into my rant about how all lighter romances are being called rom-coms, so I'll just say this book is a space opera, easy to digest sci-fi but is still information heavy and it just dumps at times as it tries to explain the world and all the politics going on. The romance is a sub-plot if not a sub-sub-plot because of how little interaction the couple has together. We barely see any buildup!! I have no investment in them.
What I am invested in after reading this book is the world that was built. Like wow there is so much going on and so much to explore. The political part of the book ends sadly for me, but realistic I suppose. I am interested in seeing where the series will explore next. Not really the romance, because I just don't believe it'll be a romance, but the next one looks to be a spy story which will be a very different beast from this book.
What I am invested in after reading this book is the world that was built. Like wow there is so much going on and so much to explore. The political part of the book ends sadly for me, but realistic I suppose. I am interested in seeing where the series will explore next. Not really the romance, because I just don't believe it'll be a romance, but the next one looks to be a spy story which will be a very different beast from this book.
January 10, 2023
I'm not a fan of romantic comedy, but I picked this book up because I hoped that it would provide enough sci-fi to offset the romance. And to a certain extent, it did.
Alexei lost her boyfriend when he got together with her sister. Her stepfather stole the money in an account set aside to pay for university, and then took out a loan on top of that. Her mother wants Alexei to be there for them, but no one is there for her.
Which is why when she receives an offer from Pax Galactica, the peacekeeping service for emergent worlds or species, she takes it. She'll be Doctor Galaxy, a show which will end up being watched by plenty of humans and aliens. The goal is to reduce the strangeness of humans with their long limbs and clunky movements
This isn't new. Dungeon Crawler Carl has aliens watching the gory action, and a number of other books are the same. I think the big difference here is that Earth is new to the world of aliens, and for reasons I won't go into, they are xenophobic. It doesn't help that the leaders put in charge of the effort to join the universe don't want to.
The sci-fi is fun, and a couple of important yet still light questions are raised about how other beings are treated, especially one species who look similar to humans, except they can fly.
This is a short book that wraps things up neatly at the end. There's very little not to like, and I even survived reading a romance book even though I didn't intend to. The characters are well drawn, the editing is above average, and it's the kind of book that takes you away from your problems.
5/5*
Alexei lost her boyfriend when he got together with her sister. Her stepfather stole the money in an account set aside to pay for university, and then took out a loan on top of that. Her mother wants Alexei to be there for them, but no one is there for her.
Which is why when she receives an offer from Pax Galactica, the peacekeeping service for emergent worlds or species, she takes it. She'll be Doctor Galaxy, a show which will end up being watched by plenty of humans and aliens. The goal is to reduce the strangeness of humans with their long limbs and clunky movements
This isn't new. Dungeon Crawler Carl has aliens watching the gory action, and a number of other books are the same. I think the big difference here is that Earth is new to the world of aliens, and for reasons I won't go into, they are xenophobic. It doesn't help that the leaders put in charge of the effort to join the universe don't want to.
The sci-fi is fun, and a couple of important yet still light questions are raised about how other beings are treated, especially one species who look similar to humans, except they can fly.
This is a short book that wraps things up neatly at the end. There's very little not to like, and I even survived reading a romance book even though I didn't intend to. The characters are well drawn, the editing is above average, and it's the kind of book that takes you away from your problems.
5/5*
April 7, 2025
Well, sadly, this didn't work for me at all.
The world building was cool - basically, after establishing their first colony on Mars, the intergalactic community showed up with the list of rules and benefits to joining up, including a bunch of new tech. Colonizing a new planet is apparently the trigger for that, and then they pop up like a jack-in-the-box to set you straight. You're protected for a couple decades as an emerging species, and then they seem to descend on you like piranhas. Earth is early in the protected stage, building their reputation, but there's another species that is in the piranha stage. Earth is watching it with big eyes, trying to figure out how to avoid the same fate. Or, well, some people are...while Earth leadership is, predictably, complete dumbasses that are convinced of their own superiority.
That part of the book worked just fine.
The romance, unfortunately, did not work at all. Like, there was so much wrong with it it would take me an hour to explain it all. So I'm going to sum up by saying: I didn't buy it in any way, shape, or form. It wasn't given enough time to make it work (by which I mean, I don't feel like I know the MMC at all, and I don't buy that the FMC knows him either), and so any kind of emotional beat felt awkward and forced. And the drama at the end was, imo, complete nonsense. Not the plotline part of it, but the shit between the MMC and FMC.
This book didn't really need the romance arc, because it was half-assed and there was no partnership here - they didn't talk about concerns or life or anything, nor consult each other on plans, so like, what relationship? And the end drama was the MMC apparently expecting the FMC to be a mind-reader and also to just deal quietly with the hell her abusive family was putting her through because he couldn't care less about it. And when the FMC figured out what he was doing, she beat herself repeatedly - and apologized pitifully to him - for not being a mind-reader and for, you know, being upset that her family tried to sell her to an evil conglomerate as if she was their personal slave.
(Honestly, the whole thing with her family just underscored not only how spineless the FMC is, but also made all the self-flagellation over not being a mind-reader really painful, because it made it clear she had no self esteem and not only would never ever expect to be treated like an equal by a partner, she would also beg for even a teeny speck of affection. Ugh.)
I don't think I'm going to continue with the series, because it was ugh enough that I don't even want to see glimpses of this "couple" in future books, but I also find most other characters involved in this nonsense to be stupid by association.
The world building was cool - basically, after establishing their first colony on Mars, the intergalactic community showed up with the list of rules and benefits to joining up, including a bunch of new tech. Colonizing a new planet is apparently the trigger for that, and then they pop up like a jack-in-the-box to set you straight. You're protected for a couple decades as an emerging species, and then they seem to descend on you like piranhas. Earth is early in the protected stage, building their reputation, but there's another species that is in the piranha stage. Earth is watching it with big eyes, trying to figure out how to avoid the same fate. Or, well, some people are...while Earth leadership is, predictably, complete dumbasses that are convinced of their own superiority.
That part of the book worked just fine.
The romance, unfortunately, did not work at all. Like, there was so much wrong with it it would take me an hour to explain it all. So I'm going to sum up by saying: I didn't buy it in any way, shape, or form. It wasn't given enough time to make it work (by which I mean, I don't feel like I know the MMC at all, and I don't buy that the FMC knows him either), and so any kind of emotional beat felt awkward and forced. And the drama at the end was, imo, complete nonsense. Not the plotline part of it, but the shit between the MMC and FMC.
This book didn't really need the romance arc, because it was half-assed and there was no partnership here - they didn't talk about concerns or life or anything, nor consult each other on plans, so like, what relationship? And the end drama was the MMC apparently expecting the FMC to be a mind-reader and also to just deal quietly with the hell her abusive family was putting her through because he couldn't care less about it. And when the FMC figured out what he was doing, she beat herself repeatedly - and apologized pitifully to him - for not being a mind-reader and for, you know, being upset that her family tried to sell her to an evil conglomerate as if she was their personal slave.
(Honestly, the whole thing with her family just underscored not only how spineless the FMC is, but also made all the self-flagellation over not being a mind-reader really painful, because it made it clear she had no self esteem and not only would never ever expect to be treated like an equal by a partner, she would also beg for even a teeny speck of affection. Ugh.)
I don't think I'm going to continue with the series, because it was ugh enough that I don't even want to see glimpses of this "couple" in future books, but I also find most other characters involved in this nonsense to be stupid by association.
January 22, 2024
Entertaining Sci-fi listening 🎧🎶
This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 1 of 2.
This novella was totally different than most Sci-fi books. This novella is about romantic, family, and friends relationships in space and on earth. It is very interesting with will developed characters, lots of action, misdirection, and very little violence. There is a lot of helping people and compassion.
I would recommend this series and author to readers looking for something different. 2024 🌎😮🎎🌋
This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 1 of 2.
This novella was totally different than most Sci-fi books. This novella is about romantic, family, and friends relationships in space and on earth. It is very interesting with will developed characters, lots of action, misdirection, and very little violence. There is a lot of helping people and compassion.
I would recommend this series and author to readers looking for something different. 2024 🌎😮🎎🌋
March 6, 2023
Maybe it's just me, but I could not connect with any of the characters, and at 60% through, I stopped reading. Too many aliens to keep track of, too much "ze, zer" usage, and a story that lacks excitement. For me.
March 2, 2023
Strange book
This book had great possibilities but failed with to much use of "ze". Could have developed a great story but just didn't quite develop the characters or the plot. I will not bother to read the next book.
This book had great possibilities but failed with to much use of "ze". Could have developed a great story but just didn't quite develop the characters or the plot. I will not bother to read the next book.
March 22, 2023
Loved loved loved this delightful space opera. Counting days until the next book.
February 22, 2024
Jenny Schwartz captured my attention with her earlier five part series, The Adventures of a Xeno-Archaeologist. Schwartz’s books do not have a lot of the hard science and future predicting ideas found in my usual Sci Fi reading. Instead, her books are fun, escapist entertainment! The storyline moves along quickly, there are interesting characters, a female protagonist, mystery, suspense, human interest, and even a little romance.
Doctor Galaxy is the first book in Schwartz’s new series, Pax Galactica. The book centers around ER doctor Alexi Sur. Alexi is a dedicated doctor who has been tossed around by life. He boyfriend left her for her step-sister, her family has swindled her out of her inheritance, she owes mucho dinero for medical school, and her mother thinks Alexi should focus on providing financial support for her dysfunctional family.
Our story begins ten years after Earth has been admitted as an emergent member of an intergalactic organization, Pax Galactica. The criteria for initial membership is to inhabit two or more planets. Having recently put a starter colony on Mars, Earth has been asked to join and the Global Advancement League established to represent our race.
Turns out there are quite complicated politics swirling around Pax Galactica. Mani Dyo, the Director of Education for the Emergent Division, has a plan to help Earth and it centers around our brave hero. Alexi is to signup for a ten year stint on a multi-species hospital ship. Mani’s plan is to follow and stream Alexi during her training and trauma work under the heading Doctor Galaxy.
Thus starts our adventure. Schwartz has created a believable and engaging intergalactic cast of characters, a war zone, a bunch of family intrigue, and, of course, a hot love interest, Soren, for Alexi to swoon over.
Doctor Galaxy is a fun and entertaining story but Schwartz also manages to weave in some serious ideas about politics, interplanetary relations, and social mores. I’ve already ordered the next book in the Pax Galactica series, I Spy an Alien.
Doctor Galaxy is the first book in Schwartz’s new series, Pax Galactica. The book centers around ER doctor Alexi Sur. Alexi is a dedicated doctor who has been tossed around by life. He boyfriend left her for her step-sister, her family has swindled her out of her inheritance, she owes mucho dinero for medical school, and her mother thinks Alexi should focus on providing financial support for her dysfunctional family.
Our story begins ten years after Earth has been admitted as an emergent member of an intergalactic organization, Pax Galactica. The criteria for initial membership is to inhabit two or more planets. Having recently put a starter colony on Mars, Earth has been asked to join and the Global Advancement League established to represent our race.
Turns out there are quite complicated politics swirling around Pax Galactica. Mani Dyo, the Director of Education for the Emergent Division, has a plan to help Earth and it centers around our brave hero. Alexi is to signup for a ten year stint on a multi-species hospital ship. Mani’s plan is to follow and stream Alexi during her training and trauma work under the heading Doctor Galaxy.
Thus starts our adventure. Schwartz has created a believable and engaging intergalactic cast of characters, a war zone, a bunch of family intrigue, and, of course, a hot love interest, Soren, for Alexi to swoon over.
Doctor Galaxy is a fun and entertaining story but Schwartz also manages to weave in some serious ideas about politics, interplanetary relations, and social mores. I’ve already ordered the next book in the Pax Galactica series, I Spy an Alien.
December 17, 2024
Entertaining, space-opera romance
This story is told from the sole, first-person POV of the FMC, Alexi Sur, a 28-year-old ER doctor, who has signed up to go into outer space for a 10-year stint with the humanitarian organization, the Pax Galactica Corps. Because Alexi expected to work solely as a doctor, she is quite surprised when the head of PGC assigns her to participate in a crucial public relations project on behalf of Earth, which is a very recent, sentient-species contact of an interplanetary alliance. The project is a reality show called Doctor Galaxy, which will document Alexi's experiences as a newbie human among many different types of aliens from various planets. It will broadcast on Earth and on all of the planets within the alliance.
In the course of her duties, Alexi encounters 31-year-old Major Soren Agha, a human commander who has just begun his second 10-year contract with the PGC. He was one of the first human volunteers when the alien alliance instituted a connection with Earth. He is currently playing peacekeeper for the humanoid Eripi of the Pariah Sector.
This is the first novel in a series. Each book offers the courtship of a different romantic couple, but they are interconnected via continuing subcharacters and by the world-building, which is quite complex and very well done. There are many fascinating and well-constructed aliens in this series, and lots of interesting sociopolitical events out in space.
I liked Alexi and Soren both as individuals and as a couple. They are equally compassionate, honorable, and courageous, and there is plenty of emotional as well as sensual chemistry between them.
This is a slowburn romance with only one onstage sex scene at the very end, which includes no description beyond kissing and mentions of undressing.
This novel is billed as a comedy, but I believe a more accurate category would be light drama. I did not notice anything that I would consider humorous.
I obtained the audiobook version of this novel through Audible. The narration is well done.
This story is told from the sole, first-person POV of the FMC, Alexi Sur, a 28-year-old ER doctor, who has signed up to go into outer space for a 10-year stint with the humanitarian organization, the Pax Galactica Corps. Because Alexi expected to work solely as a doctor, she is quite surprised when the head of PGC assigns her to participate in a crucial public relations project on behalf of Earth, which is a very recent, sentient-species contact of an interplanetary alliance. The project is a reality show called Doctor Galaxy, which will document Alexi's experiences as a newbie human among many different types of aliens from various planets. It will broadcast on Earth and on all of the planets within the alliance.
In the course of her duties, Alexi encounters 31-year-old Major Soren Agha, a human commander who has just begun his second 10-year contract with the PGC. He was one of the first human volunteers when the alien alliance instituted a connection with Earth. He is currently playing peacekeeper for the humanoid Eripi of the Pariah Sector.
This is the first novel in a series. Each book offers the courtship of a different romantic couple, but they are interconnected via continuing subcharacters and by the world-building, which is quite complex and very well done. There are many fascinating and well-constructed aliens in this series, and lots of interesting sociopolitical events out in space.
I liked Alexi and Soren both as individuals and as a couple. They are equally compassionate, honorable, and courageous, and there is plenty of emotional as well as sensual chemistry between them.
This is a slowburn romance with only one onstage sex scene at the very end, which includes no description beyond kissing and mentions of undressing.
This novel is billed as a comedy, but I believe a more accurate category would be light drama. I did not notice anything that I would consider humorous.
I obtained the audiobook version of this novel through Audible. The narration is well done.
October 22, 2024
The book itself wasn’t a five star, the enjoyment level however was! My favourite Schwartz book to date. Nice Sci fi setting, twisty plot and satisfying romance. Can’t wait to read the next one
March 23, 2023
I had hopes for this one... my first perusal, it seemed to be actual science fiction, rather than the other kinds of fiction nowadays often lumped together with it. I may get back with it later, as it could be something with me right now [such as some med changes] rather than the book. essentially, I was getting annoyed, as the good start seemed to be getting disjointed... confusing with [non-sequiturs, fallacies].
we'll see later
we'll see later
January 29, 2023
This was a big DNF for me. I liked the blurbed concept, but after getting 25% in, it just wasn't doing it for me. At all. I couldn't relate to the MFC. She just read wrong. That's probably my biggest complaint.
And just FYI, your cousin's children are NOT your nieces and nephews. That's not how it works.
And just FYI, your cousin's children are NOT your nieces and nephews. That's not how it works.
March 6, 2023
huh
This is not a comedy… it is barely a romance. Alexei is ok but seems shallow and Soren is much more strategic. It is odd that they come together…. Very sudden. And there is so much background that it is hard to follow.
This is not a comedy… it is barely a romance. Alexei is ok but seems shallow and Soren is much more strategic. It is odd that they come together…. Very sudden. And there is so much background that it is hard to follow.
March 28, 2023
Liked the book. Nice world building.
May 18, 2023
3.5/5*
Read
January 4, 2023I found Alexi's story kind of odd, and it didn't keep my interest! I've enjoyed other stories by this author but this one, I gave up on!
December 18, 2024
3.5 stars? Fun yarn. Interesting plot involving Humanity being introduced to an intergalactic organisation and ... reality tv shows.
There is a relationship storyline which...okay...
I appreciated that the main character is a dr who wants to just do her job and is really into doing her job, against a background of massive politics.
This is one of those "aliens are just like us!" stories. They just look different!
There is a relationship storyline which...okay...
I appreciated that the main character is a dr who wants to just do her job and is really into doing her job, against a background of massive politics.
This is one of those "aliens are just like us!" stories. They just look different!
July 26, 2024
Romance:
March 2, 2023
An interesting take on galactic society. Doctor Galaxy was definitely a unique and enjoyable read. I liked Alexi as a main character she was smart and had a good heart. Soren, her love interest, also looked like a good partner for her, they were cute together. We got to see a bit about his family and that added dimension to his character. I have a few observations as well. Spoilers further ahead!
When Alexi and Soren had their big/final fight, she was blaming herself for not knowing his plan and then said that he wasn’t a mind reader so he didn’t know that she was avoiding him because Alexi felt guilty. I feel like that was pretty much nonsense. The book tried to portray Soren not communicating his intentions as him caring about his job. But there was no reason why he couldn’t have confided in Alexi about his plans (especially when there were no drones around) and worked as a team (or if there was a reason, explain it to the reader). Instead we saw him being basically a douche to Alexi and then her blaming herself for everything. Well, Soren, Alexi is not a mind reader either! I feel like that moment brought me out of the experience a bit. Relationship is about communication.
Another thing I wanted to mention, the whole Soren overthrowing GAL with the game was a bit improbable. I mean I understand the whole suspend your disbelief and stuff but how is winning a game going to dethrone a governmental body. I liked the whole aspect of the GAL being in charge as long as humans allowed them to be which makes sense (there is no government if there are no people to govern) but I feel like the book should have included a waiting period. A week or so to see if people really wanted to replace GAL, but the book just assumed that they would right after the game. This made the whole scenario feel a bit far-fetched.
But apart from my critiques, I enjoyed the book. The whole aspect of an intergalactic reality show was fun and unique.
When Alexi and Soren had their big/final fight, she was blaming herself for not knowing his plan and then said that he wasn’t a mind reader so he didn’t know that she was avoiding him because Alexi felt guilty. I feel like that was pretty much nonsense. The book tried to portray Soren not communicating his intentions as him caring about his job. But there was no reason why he couldn’t have confided in Alexi about his plans (especially when there were no drones around) and worked as a team (or if there was a reason, explain it to the reader). Instead we saw him being basically a douche to Alexi and then her blaming herself for everything. Well, Soren, Alexi is not a mind reader either! I feel like that moment brought me out of the experience a bit. Relationship is about communication.
Another thing I wanted to mention, the whole Soren overthrowing GAL with the game was a bit improbable. I mean I understand the whole suspend your disbelief and stuff but how is winning a game going to dethrone a governmental body. I liked the whole aspect of the GAL being in charge as long as humans allowed them to be which makes sense (there is no government if there are no people to govern) but I feel like the book should have included a waiting period. A week or so to see if people really wanted to replace GAL, but the book just assumed that they would right after the game. This made the whole scenario feel a bit far-fetched.
But apart from my critiques, I enjoyed the book. The whole aspect of an intergalactic reality show was fun and unique.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2023
This should have been a cute, fun romp. And it was cute... until we learn what's happening to the Eripi. Still, you keep on--the synopsis says Soren is convinced Alexi can save them. I tend to read for positive vibes, so that sucked. And then the romance went to "blame the woman"-town, and that was the icing on the crap cake. Alexi is quick to forgive and defend Soren, but in doing so she reviles herself. Here's the thing, though: she's not a mind reader, either, and what happened brought all the stress of her family's betrayal to life again. She's not the villain here, but the author let her paint herself that way; I just... it really sits wrong with me.
February 7, 2023
DNF-gave up at 43%
This reads like a trailer of a book. Episodic highlights broken with brief conversations with a host of characters who mean nothing, because they enter and leave entirely undeveloped. And all of the sudden there is a kiss. An awkward one, and then an even more awkward conversation about the kiss… nope, I just can’t finish. Oh, and comedy? Where?
This reads like a trailer of a book. Episodic highlights broken with brief conversations with a host of characters who mean nothing, because they enter and leave entirely undeveloped. And all of the sudden there is a kiss. An awkward one, and then an even more awkward conversation about the kiss… nope, I just can’t finish. Oh, and comedy? Where?
December 13, 2025
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
2.25* -- This is another book for me that would have worked an awful lot better if the 'romance' hadn't been part of the plot. Not as in some cases because I hated the love interest, but because IMHO it just didn't work as a love story and shoehorning it in wasted time away from the actually interesting story.
If this was a trilogy, not a set of 3 standalone titles, with the MC and LI getting together in book 2, then this could have really worked as a 'meeting and building to a relationship' story given the little actual romance before they pair off in this book.
I thought the world-building and setting was interesting.
I mostly liked the MC, though she could be a bit too much of a doormat*, hence loosing stars.
I liked the love interest as a person, he was a 'mostly*' at one point, but he owned what he did wrong there.
*
Also got to be honest, I disliked the ending.
Pedantic moment = your cousin's children would be cousins not your niece or nephew.
Child of your aunt = 1st cousin. Child of that cousin = 1st cousin once removed, their child = 1st cousin twice removed.
Mother's cousin to you = 1st cousin once removed -- their child = 2nd cousin -- their grandchild = 2nd cousin once removed.
First time read the author's work?: No --- I prefer her other books.
Will you be reading more?: Not sure for this series -- Yes for her other books.
Would you recommend?: Maybe
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
2.25* -- This is another book for me that would have worked an awful lot better if the 'romance' hadn't been part of the plot. Not as in some cases because I hated the love interest, but because IMHO it just didn't work as a love story and shoehorning it in wasted time away from the actually interesting story.
If this was a trilogy, not a set of 3 standalone titles, with the MC and LI getting together in book 2, then this could have really worked as a 'meeting and building to a relationship' story given the little actual romance before they pair off in this book.
I thought the world-building and setting was interesting.
I mostly liked the MC, though she could be a bit too much of a doormat*, hence loosing stars.
I liked the love interest as a person, he was a 'mostly*' at one point, but he owned what he did wrong there.
*
Also got to be honest, I disliked the ending.
Pedantic moment = your cousin's children would be cousins not your niece or nephew.
Child of your aunt = 1st cousin. Child of that cousin = 1st cousin once removed, their child = 1st cousin twice removed.
Mother's cousin to you = 1st cousin once removed -- their child = 2nd cousin -- their grandchild = 2nd cousin once removed.
First time read the author's work?: No --- I prefer her other books.
Will you be reading more?: Not sure for this series -- Yes for her other books.
Would you recommend?: Maybe
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How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
November 19, 2023
We are in a new world where there are other species far advanced than us and have a global society which governs and protects them in space. Dr Alexi, an emergency doctor applies for a job in PAX Galatica which is currently in need of a doctor to heal Eripi who are a second grade citizens and can become first grade citizens if they show high potential in trade. Consortium is trying to capture their planets and make them drudge citizens for all their lives in Universal Society.
The reason for Alexi is not to heal Eripi but be away from her mother, step father, step sister and her ex who left her for her step sister. They exploit her by taking loans in her name and expect her to repay. They don't care for her at all. But with Pax, she has a chance to freedom from her inconsiderate relatives and also the loan will be cleared and in exchange she has a contract of 10 years to work in space.
She is happy to work in space rather than in earth but healing is not the only work. She will be hosting a new show Doctor Galaxy for the whole universe to see. It will represent humanity and will give earth citizens a better chance than Eripi. Dyo Mani is the brain behind this show and he convinces Alexi to work for it. Alexi was sure that it will be a flop show but what happens is it becomes a absolute hit. She also meets Soren Agha who is the major of ship and is the human whom she can rely on. He wants to save the Eripi and is very kind and passionate person. They hit off and understand each other.
As time goes on Alexi also likes and respects the work she does. She likes being in space. But at the end she is asked to make a difficult choice which she does make as she has come out of her insecurities and lack of confidence. How Soren takes revenge on Earth for not supporting Eripi is the best. Awaiting to read the next book.
The reason for Alexi is not to heal Eripi but be away from her mother, step father, step sister and her ex who left her for her step sister. They exploit her by taking loans in her name and expect her to repay. They don't care for her at all. But with Pax, she has a chance to freedom from her inconsiderate relatives and also the loan will be cleared and in exchange she has a contract of 10 years to work in space.
She is happy to work in space rather than in earth but healing is not the only work. She will be hosting a new show Doctor Galaxy for the whole universe to see. It will represent humanity and will give earth citizens a better chance than Eripi. Dyo Mani is the brain behind this show and he convinces Alexi to work for it. Alexi was sure that it will be a flop show but what happens is it becomes a absolute hit. She also meets Soren Agha who is the major of ship and is the human whom she can rely on. He wants to save the Eripi and is very kind and passionate person. They hit off and understand each other.
As time goes on Alexi also likes and respects the work she does. She likes being in space. But at the end she is asked to make a difficult choice which she does make as she has come out of her insecurities and lack of confidence. How Soren takes revenge on Earth for not supporting Eripi is the best. Awaiting to read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2026
Ahoy there me mateys! I have been trying to find some new sci-fi authors and Jenny Schwartz had some Audible Plus series starters. Bonus was that she is Australian. So I listened to two to see if the author's work was for me. I enjoyed parts of both but not enough to read or pay for more of either series.
I listened to this one in audiobook format read by Carlotta Brentan. The title drew me in because I love the idea of doctors taking care of aliens. Plus it made me laugh a little.
This is the story of Alexi Sur whose parents run up tons of debt in her name and ruin her dream of working for an humanitarian aid organization. The Pax Galactica Corps gives her an offer she can't refuse. Join their organization, be a doctor for multi-species in a conflict zone, and have her debts paid. The hitch, her life will be filmed for a reality tv show. I despise being filmed in any capacity but Alexi agrees. She understands that the reality tv show is supposed to help humanity's integration into galactic society.
Ultimately, I felt all areas of the book were a little light in details. The reality show means that there are camera drones following Alexi around and occasionally she answers questions for the audience. The romance was fine. I liked that Alexi and Soren don't have angst about getting together and their conflict comes because of larger political issues. But in general the relationship was in the background. There is some alien medicine but not enough. Alexi's family dynamics also feature in the plot.
That said, it was an extremely pleasant read and I enjoyed it enough to look into reading more of the series. I wanted more doctor adventures but the next two books switch characters and don't appeal. But I decided to give her work another chance and try the Xeno-Archaeologist series. Arrrr!
I listened to this one in audiobook format read by Carlotta Brentan. The title drew me in because I love the idea of doctors taking care of aliens. Plus it made me laugh a little.
This is the story of Alexi Sur whose parents run up tons of debt in her name and ruin her dream of working for an humanitarian aid organization. The Pax Galactica Corps gives her an offer she can't refuse. Join their organization, be a doctor for multi-species in a conflict zone, and have her debts paid. The hitch, her life will be filmed for a reality tv show. I despise being filmed in any capacity but Alexi agrees. She understands that the reality tv show is supposed to help humanity's integration into galactic society.
Ultimately, I felt all areas of the book were a little light in details. The reality show means that there are camera drones following Alexi around and occasionally she answers questions for the audience. The romance was fine. I liked that Alexi and Soren don't have angst about getting together and their conflict comes because of larger political issues. But in general the relationship was in the background. There is some alien medicine but not enough. Alexi's family dynamics also feature in the plot.
That said, it was an extremely pleasant read and I enjoyed it enough to look into reading more of the series. I wanted more doctor adventures but the next two books switch characters and don't appeal. But I decided to give her work another chance and try the Xeno-Archaeologist series. Arrrr!
April 12, 2023
First off, big kudos to the author for getting a story out of their head and into a book. It's a talent to finish writing a book, and no matter how I feel about the book itself, I admire their tenacity and drive!
Unfortunately, for me, this book had a great concept and less than great execution. I thought the premise was fascinating, the world-building had a good start but sputtered out, and the romance was just not believable. A lot seemed to be happening 'behind the curtain' so to speak. Additionally,
I liked the detail with the alien species and how the aliens had multiple political factions within their alien type--interesting and realistic! I could have read a whole series about Dr. Galaxy exploring space and learning alien medicine and interacting with alien culture without the romance or family subplots. I think this book is not for me, but it's definitely for some people!
Unfortunately, for me, this book had a great concept and less than great execution. I thought the premise was fascinating, the world-building had a good start but sputtered out, and the romance was just not believable. A lot seemed to be happening 'behind the curtain' so to speak. Additionally,
I liked the detail with the alien species and how the aliens had multiple political factions within their alien type--interesting and realistic! I could have read a whole series about Dr. Galaxy exploring space and learning alien medicine and interacting with alien culture without the romance or family subplots. I think this book is not for me, but it's definitely for some people!
May 31, 2023
Doctor Galaxy was a fun and quick and interesting read. Alexi volunteers to leave Earth and join the Pax Galatica Corps to escape crippling debt because she was duped by her family to take on their debt but it was more for nefarious reasons than anything. She's a doctor by trade and loves helping people so when she signs up for the Corps she's informed that her job would be a little bit more than just helping people -- she would be helping another alien species called the Eripi to show the galaxy union that not only humans are good but so are the Eripi. The Eripi are currently trying to escape as refugees from the horrible conditions on their planet and want to show the universe they are a simple and kind species. Alexi has to learn alien physiology and culture so she can assimilate with the species naturally while she portrays herself as Doctor Galaxy for the filming of the show.
I actually enjoyed this story. It's very unique and the worldbuilding. The side characters were a lot of fun and their was a good bit of chemistry between Alexi and her love interest Soren. The story flowed well till about 70% then I got a little bit lost with what was going on with the different species factions. I feel like I blinked and all the build up for a big problem seemed to be resolved from one page to the next. To my romance lovers out there, there are a few make out sessions and a tiny bit of heavy petting but there are no explicit sex scenes and it ends on an HEA.
This was my first Jenny Schwartz book and I would definitely give another of her books a try.
I actually enjoyed this story. It's very unique and the worldbuilding. The side characters were a lot of fun and their was a good bit of chemistry between Alexi and her love interest Soren. The story flowed well till about 70% then I got a little bit lost with what was going on with the different species factions. I feel like I blinked and all the build up for a big problem seemed to be resolved from one page to the next. To my romance lovers out there, there are a few make out sessions and a tiny bit of heavy petting but there are no explicit sex scenes and it ends on an HEA.
This was my first Jenny Schwartz book and I would definitely give another of her books a try.
May 15, 2023
3.75 stars. Despite the incorrect blurb I liked this novel. After familial betrayal, Dr Alexi Sur joins an alien alliance to become a doctor to humans in space. Humans, a newly emergent species, are in danger of being viewed forever as 2nd class citizens in the alliance. To combat this, Dr Sur is roped in to being part of a reality tv show to improve relations and perceptions of humans and save themselves and other humanoid species from refusal of full citizenship into the alliance. I am so glad the book I read didn’t have the cartoon cover that’s on this goodreads page. I probably wouldn’t have read it.
What worked for me: 1) I liked the characters. 2) I liked the premise of it all. 3) Editing was well done. 3) Interesting concepts that highlighted the author’s culture and political understandings/beliefs.
What didn’t work for me: 1) It wasn’t what I’d consider a “space opera” nor a “comedy”. 2) It was a sci-fi romance, though the romance was a bit underdeveloped. For ex the Major’s kiss on the cheek came out of literally nowhere and the developing romance seemed transactional in the beginning rather than emotional. In fact, it didn’t seem emotional until the last 80+%. 3) There were a few missed opportunities in regards to exploring certain social issues, BUT the author did well bringing them up within a broader context.
All in all a good read. Will read the next one.
What worked for me: 1) I liked the characters. 2) I liked the premise of it all. 3) Editing was well done. 3) Interesting concepts that highlighted the author’s culture and political understandings/beliefs.
What didn’t work for me: 1) It wasn’t what I’d consider a “space opera” nor a “comedy”. 2) It was a sci-fi romance, though the romance was a bit underdeveloped. For ex the Major’s kiss on the cheek came out of literally nowhere and the developing romance seemed transactional in the beginning rather than emotional. In fact, it didn’t seem emotional until the last 80+%. 3) There were a few missed opportunities in regards to exploring certain social issues, BUT the author did well bringing them up within a broader context.
All in all a good read. Will read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2023
Review:
"Doctor Galaxy" began with promise, propelling us into an engaging space journey with Alexi. Her intriguing backstory and participation in a reality TV show provided compelling plot points. However, some of her prickly interactions with her fellow humans were perplexing. For instance, the lack of a friendlier rapport with the show's producer struck me as odd. Given their close working environment and the sparse human company, some warmth between them might have seemed more realistic. Although the author chose a different path, it wasn't a choice I found particularly relatable.
The turnoff for me was the handling of the romantic element in the novel. Billed as a romance, the story's first romantic gesture - a spontaneous public kiss by the male lead - came off as startlingly abrupt, especially considering his stern military demeanor. Alexi's surprise mirrored my own, and the ensuing discussion about the practicality of them being together wasn't exactly what I would classify as romantic.
Despite the skilled writing and an otherwise intriguing storyline, this particular development made me hesitate to put the time in to continue. The romance didn't hit the notes I was expecting, leading me to set the book aside for the time being.
"Doctor Galaxy" began with promise, propelling us into an engaging space journey with Alexi. Her intriguing backstory and participation in a reality TV show provided compelling plot points. However, some of her prickly interactions with her fellow humans were perplexing. For instance, the lack of a friendlier rapport with the show's producer struck me as odd. Given their close working environment and the sparse human company, some warmth between them might have seemed more realistic. Although the author chose a different path, it wasn't a choice I found particularly relatable.
The turnoff for me was the handling of the romantic element in the novel. Billed as a romance, the story's first romantic gesture - a spontaneous public kiss by the male lead - came off as startlingly abrupt, especially considering his stern military demeanor. Alexi's surprise mirrored my own, and the ensuing discussion about the practicality of them being together wasn't exactly what I would classify as romantic.
Despite the skilled writing and an otherwise intriguing storyline, this particular development made me hesitate to put the time in to continue. The romance didn't hit the notes I was expecting, leading me to set the book aside for the time being.
November 27, 2025
This was a truly lucky find in Audible's Included category. Sci-fi with heart! The author describes her stories as "strangely hopeful fantasy and science fiction" and that is a perfect - and highly enticing - description, from what I 'read' here. I love stories that are built on the noblebright trope (where hope, heroism, and the triumph of good over evil are emphasised) because the world can be a hard place and escaping into that kind of story is a delight and for me, a relaxing way to switch off.
It's a fun setting for the narrative. A reality show built around a human in an attempt to better manage Earth's introduction to the Universe's many species. That Alexi was a newly minted trauma specialist and the medical scenes presented as though based on solid practice just added to the appeal for me. I loved that the FMC was so open and positive to meeting aliens and her kind, competent nature was highlighted in all interactions. There's a lovely fade to black romance arc too.....ticking so many boxes here, Ms Schwartz! It's reminiscent of Becky Chambers' style of worldbuilding and I have long searched for similar stories to hers so I will absolutely be continuing with any and all books by Jenny Schwartz.
It's a fun setting for the narrative. A reality show built around a human in an attempt to better manage Earth's introduction to the Universe's many species. That Alexi was a newly minted trauma specialist and the medical scenes presented as though based on solid practice just added to the appeal for me. I loved that the FMC was so open and positive to meeting aliens and her kind, competent nature was highlighted in all interactions. There's a lovely fade to black romance arc too.....ticking so many boxes here, Ms Schwartz! It's reminiscent of Becky Chambers' style of worldbuilding and I have long searched for similar stories to hers so I will absolutely be continuing with any and all books by Jenny Schwartz.
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