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April #2
Down to Earth
April seems to make a habit of rescues. Now two lieutenants from the recent war appeal to her for help to reach Home. The secret they hold makes their escape doubtful. North America, the United States of North America, has been cheating on their treaty obligations and a public figure like April taking a very visible vacation there would be a good way to remind them of their obligations. Wouldn't it? Her family and business associates all think it is a great idea. She can serve a public purpose and do her rescue on the sly too. But things get difficult enough, just getting back Home alive is going to be a challenge. It's a good thing she has some help. Why does everything have to be so complicated?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2012
197 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Mackey Chandler
35 books222 followersMackey (Mac') Chandler is retired to Rochester Michigan from a working life that spanned a large number of occupations. Mold maker, aerospace machinist, plumber, mechanic and dozen more as well as owning several businesses. This life experience and travel show in the depth and variety of his writing.
A life long time reader of Science Fiction, the authors at Baen's Bar and their evening chat room motivated him to try his own hand at writing. His first effort was a short story titled "Common Ground" which sold to the short-lived Jim Baen's Universe.
His personal favorite book is "The Mote in God's Eye" by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle. Other favorite authors include Michael Z. Williamson and C.J.Cherryh.
A life long time reader of Science Fiction, the authors at Baen's Bar and their evening chat room motivated him to try his own hand at writing. His first effort was a short story titled "Common Ground" which sold to the short-lived Jim Baen's Universe.
His personal favorite book is "The Mote in God's Eye" by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle. Other favorite authors include Michael Z. Williamson and C.J.Cherryh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 23, 2022
Quite good!
December 23, 2017
Still reading
The ebook editing issue breaks your concentration badly in some key sections. There is a continuing problem with some characters' backgrounds, capabilities, origins, motivations and even names. There seems to be a confusing ethnic and nationality mix with what seems like identified Japanese characters with Philippino names, a photographer suddenly displaying commando tactical skills, and more.
There are few pages describing the personal perspectives of any characters and that would greatly benefit the read. The capabilities of a fifteen year old have gone beyond believable and the emotional flatness together with her lack of connection to others is a shame.
"Oriental" gentlemen are actually Asian, Japanese and Chinese names are not interchangeable. The damage to infrastructure resulting from the war described in the first book would in fact have caused social and economic collapse, I think.
The main character continues to be the voice of privilege with no self examination. It's not attractive. I'm still curious to see how these political struggles are resolved. Read on, Garth. (Just with lowered expectations)
The ebook editing issue breaks your concentration badly in some key sections. There is a continuing problem with some characters' backgrounds, capabilities, origins, motivations and even names. There seems to be a confusing ethnic and nationality mix with what seems like identified Japanese characters with Philippino names, a photographer suddenly displaying commando tactical skills, and more.
There are few pages describing the personal perspectives of any characters and that would greatly benefit the read. The capabilities of a fifteen year old have gone beyond believable and the emotional flatness together with her lack of connection to others is a shame.
"Oriental" gentlemen are actually Asian, Japanese and Chinese names are not interchangeable. The damage to infrastructure resulting from the war described in the first book would in fact have caused social and economic collapse, I think.
The main character continues to be the voice of privilege with no self examination. It's not attractive. I'm still curious to see how these political struggles are resolved. Read on, Garth. (Just with lowered expectations)
December 2, 2025
It would be easy to rate this novel poorly if you don't agree with the Libertarian ideals that underpin Home, the orbital community attached to a captured asteroid. But this is SciFi; if I can suspend my disbelief and accept Star Fleet's moneyless society, or Galaxy spanning theocracies that somehow adapt to alien civilisations, then Chandler's creation is not too much of an ask.
Just a note on that very world-building... I love it as a thought experiment but Chandler conspicuously fails to address the problem of generational wealth, and uses "future tech" to caulk the cracks that inevitably appear in Libertarian models. E.g. The undersupply of public goods, power without accountability, the formation of cartels/monopolies, Etc.
The premise of this book was terrific. After winning the war in book one, April was tasked with vacationing in the lands of the defeated North America as a P.R. stunt to remind them of why they surrendered and to try to prevent a resurgence of provincial grandiosity and sabre rattling. She technically has the right to exist on US soil but only be subject to Home's laws. But how will one young woman assert those rights against an entire antagonistic empire?
This one kept me up into the wee hours of the morning. It's promising, for the remainder of the series, that April seems to keep accruing competent and moral companions — expanding the scope of the story without watering down its core ethos.
Just a note on that very world-building... I love it as a thought experiment but Chandler conspicuously fails to address the problem of generational wealth, and uses "future tech" to caulk the cracks that inevitably appear in Libertarian models. E.g. The undersupply of public goods, power without accountability, the formation of cartels/monopolies, Etc.
The premise of this book was terrific. After winning the war in book one, April was tasked with vacationing in the lands of the defeated North America as a P.R. stunt to remind them of why they surrendered and to try to prevent a resurgence of provincial grandiosity and sabre rattling. She technically has the right to exist on US soil but only be subject to Home's laws. But how will one young woman assert those rights against an entire antagonistic empire?
This one kept me up into the wee hours of the morning. It's promising, for the remainder of the series, that April seems to keep accruing competent and moral companions — expanding the scope of the story without watering down its core ethos.
January 25, 2017
Wow. Just wow. I love April.
This is the second in the series I have read. I bought the first book April on spec because the blurb sounded intriguing. I couldn't put it down until I literally couldn't keep my eyes open at 5 am. The lead character, April reminds me of a cross between Heinlien 's Paddy and John Ringo's She wolf, with a touch of Miller and Green's Miri into the mix. The plot is an enjoyable mix, of politics, revolution and nonstop action that rivets your attention. Mackey Chandler's is a master wordsmith whose smothered prose sucks you into his world willingly and quite enjoyably. This series (so far) is totally worth your hard earned dime, and your time. Buy it, you'll be glad you did.
This is the second in the series I have read. I bought the first book April on spec because the blurb sounded intriguing. I couldn't put it down until I literally couldn't keep my eyes open at 5 am. The lead character, April reminds me of a cross between Heinlien 's Paddy and John Ringo's She wolf, with a touch of Miller and Green's Miri into the mix. The plot is an enjoyable mix, of politics, revolution and nonstop action that rivets your attention. Mackey Chandler's is a master wordsmith whose smothered prose sucks you into his world willingly and quite enjoyably. This series (so far) is totally worth your hard earned dime, and your time. Buy it, you'll be glad you did.
July 3, 2021
A sad followup
I loved the first book in this series. And this book wasn't so bad. April was still the driven, determined young lady she was in the first book. The characters were fleshed out enough for you to like or dislike them. The action was good.
But the editing was probably the worst i have seen yet in an Amazon Kindle book. And I've seen some bad editing in 2021. It makes me wonder if the wrong edition was accidentally sent to Amazon. Seriously, how can you have so many misspelled words and such an overwhelming amount of punctuation errors?
I can overlook missed words or misplaced commas. But, in this case, it was just too much of a distraction.
Here's hoping the next book in this series offers some redemption.
I loved the first book in this series. And this book wasn't so bad. April was still the driven, determined young lady she was in the first book. The characters were fleshed out enough for you to like or dislike them. The action was good.
But the editing was probably the worst i have seen yet in an Amazon Kindle book. And I've seen some bad editing in 2021. It makes me wonder if the wrong edition was accidentally sent to Amazon. Seriously, how can you have so many misspelled words and such an overwhelming amount of punctuation errors?
I can overlook missed words or misplaced commas. But, in this case, it was just too much of a distraction.
Here's hoping the next book in this series offers some redemption.
July 9, 2019
Good story, good pacing, poor punctuation and the spelling and grammar still need some work.
The author is definitely doubling down on the comparisons between an Orwellian USA of the future and Germany during the 1920s and 1930s.
This one feels like its establishing the scene for quite a few plot threads for future books with Diana Hunt, Papa-san, Gunny, The two Lieutenants, the French naval crew and the actions that Bob takes and their consequences.
Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series which I shall be starting as soon as I finish this review!
November 6, 2020
I love the story of April and friends, but I don't understand why Mackey insists on using the term "Oriental". I believe the book was originally published in 2012, which means that it came out during an era when using the term "Oriental" was discouraged due to the derogatory nature with which it has been associated. I'm not hung up on being politically correct, but I cringed every time I saw the word. Other than that, I felt like I was able to suspend my disbelief of some of the fantastical innovations introduced in the story, and enjoyed the style of writing.
May 2, 2021
Why Not Just Get Along?
This episode was much easier to follow than the first, probably because there were fewer people and factions in it. It was a fun story including space ships, ground vehicles and even a sailboat. It seems like Chamber's intent was to establish that there are large pockets of resistance to the acknowledgment of HOME as independent, thereby leading to further conflict. I have often wondered what it is about human nature that causes us to fight each other rather than simply work together.
This episode was much easier to follow than the first, probably because there were fewer people and factions in it. It was a fun story including space ships, ground vehicles and even a sailboat. It seems like Chamber's intent was to establish that there are large pockets of resistance to the acknowledgment of HOME as independent, thereby leading to further conflict. I have often wondered what it is about human nature that causes us to fight each other rather than simply work together.
March 28, 2021
Good follow on to the first book in the series. Interesting characters and multiple plot lines, with action and political intrigue.
My only complaint is that the editing and proofreading were not very good...several punctuation errors and incorrect words, some of which actually changed the meaning of the narrative. A couple are expected, but here are way too many in these books so far, it's a bit distracting.
My only complaint is that the editing and proofreading were not very good...several punctuation errors and incorrect words, some of which actually changed the meaning of the narrative. A couple are expected, but here are way too many in these books so far, it's a bit distracting.
September 15, 2025
Technically, there are problems with these early books. I noticed plenty of misplaced commas, inconsistencies, and even some verbatim sentences repeated in this second book from the first. But I was drawn in to this world first with the Family Law series, of which I’ve read a few books, and now am catching up on the backstory of April, Heather, and Jeff. The mistakes, of which there seem to be fewer in later books, are easy to ignore when I’m invested in the characters and story. Chandler has a gift for those and I plan to read all the books in both series.
October 31, 2018
I am extremely happy to see that the story is just as good in this second installment as it was in the first. Great story, nice character development, and just good all around adventure. I'm loving this series, There are more typos than I'd like, but the story is good enough that those are only mildly irritating.
April 14, 2024
An excellent read
So maybe it wasn't the best idea for April to be Home's ambassador while on holiday to Earth but it sure did make for an enjoyable read. Making new friends and a lot more enemies April goes from holidaying in Hawaii to killing a Senator and going on the run. Lots of action packed scenes that kept me hooked until the very end. Highly recommend.
So maybe it wasn't the best idea for April to be Home's ambassador while on holiday to Earth but it sure did make for an enjoyable read. Making new friends and a lot more enemies April goes from holidaying in Hawaii to killing a Senator and going on the run. Lots of action packed scenes that kept me hooked until the very end. Highly recommend.
August 25, 2017
This is a book with strong characters who have a solid focus. It has great story line and enough adventure to suit most of us who read it. Grabs you in from the start...keeps you guessing till the end. Can't wait for the next one, great series. Author knows how to keep your attention.
August 14, 2018
Thanks Mackey.
I read April book 1, yesterday. I couldn't put it down. Today I read book 2. Couldn't put it down either. Just finished it at 5 am. I'm tempted to start book 3 right now, but figure if I do I won't sleep until tomorrow. Beware this author interferes with sleep.
I read April book 1, yesterday. I couldn't put it down. Today I read book 2. Couldn't put it down either. Just finished it at 5 am. I'm tempted to start book 3 right now, but figure if I do I won't sleep until tomorrow. Beware this author interferes with sleep.
December 11, 2020
Another great book
After the first book, I expressed my delight of the similarities with some of Heinlein’s “Boys Life” work. This book seriously starts the Libertarian leaning of L. Neil Smith’s books. Universal weapons acceptance, minimalist government and corrupt politicians abound. Can’t wait until we get to the moon!
After the first book, I expressed my delight of the similarities with some of Heinlein’s “Boys Life” work. This book seriously starts the Libertarian leaning of L. Neil Smith’s books. Universal weapons acceptance, minimalist government and corrupt politicians abound. Can’t wait until we get to the moon!
October 16, 2021
A bit slow compared to the first
A bit slow compared to the first but still a nice book. Unfortunately it leaves a lot of loose ends. Hopefully they will be addressed in the next book.
A bit slow compared to the first but still a nice book. Unfortunately it leaves a lot of loose ends. Hopefully they will be addressed in the next book.
March 8, 2022
This series has very engaging character development and a plot that matches technology with conflict. It has held my interest even though I already read the series by this author that follows it later.
November 22, 2022
Outstanding Series
This is my second book and I have been pleasantly surprised at the complexity of the storyline. The characters are great and the action ongoing. Glad to have found an amazing author.
This is my second book and I have been pleasantly surprised at the complexity of the storyline. The characters are great and the action ongoing. Glad to have found an amazing author.
September 20, 2017
Good story needs better editing.
This is a great sequel about Home dealing with their independence. The poor editing kept pulling me out of the story.
This is a great sequel about Home dealing with their independence. The poor editing kept pulling me out of the story.
January 24, 2018
A very engaging series!
Mackey Chandler has a way with Sci-Fi. Likable characters along with a bang up storyline. Each story is as good as the last.
Mackey Chandler has a way with Sci-Fi. Likable characters along with a bang up storyline. Each story is as good as the last.
August 21, 2018
Good series
Wasn't sure when I started reading this series , but it grew on me quickly. On to book 3, and hopefully the complete series. Well worth a read .
Wasn't sure when I started reading this series , but it grew on me quickly. On to book 3, and hopefully the complete series. Well worth a read .
September 23, 2018
Pretty well written.
Good story, fairly well paced. Could use some editing for spelling and grammar. Would recommend this series to my friends.
Good story, fairly well paced. Could use some editing for spelling and grammar. Would recommend this series to my friends.
September 7, 2019
It was okay if you are into intrigue and the like though I disliked that none of it took place in space which is what I look for. The series premise is good though. Not so many spelling errors in this book as previous but some. I am not looking forward to the next book in line as again, never mind I don't want to spoil the plot in the review. Read it yourself!
February 23, 2020
Sleepless nights reading
Be prepared for many nights of sleepless reading, where you will keep on saying, "one more chapter!". So read on, fellow book addict!
Be prepared for many nights of sleepless reading, where you will keep on saying, "one more chapter!". So read on, fellow book addict!
February 27, 2020
Very good!
You kept me up till three am! Good story about a young woman in an unpleasant world trying to get along if only the world would cooperate.
You kept me up till three am! Good story about a young woman in an unpleasant world trying to get along if only the world would cooperate.
March 7, 2020
Great book!
Really good second book in the April series, great story, really nice characters, great action scenes with cool tech.. great book!
Really good second book in the April series, great story, really nice characters, great action scenes with cool tech.. great book!
September 30, 2020
Excellent
Second time I 've read this series, it's good words in a row. You have had steak or lobster more than once, why not being able to
Second time I 've read this series, it's good words in a row. You have had steak or lobster more than once, why not being able to
August 7, 2025
April comes down to Earth and as perhaps expected, hostilities occur. Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, read with the Alexa audio assist application.
October 24, 2025
Not epic but...
I enjoyed the read, book 1 now book 2. Enough twists and turns to keep you reading. Already have 3 downloaded 😀
I enjoyed the read, book 1 now book 2. Enough twists and turns to keep you reading. Already have 3 downloaded 😀
November 25, 2022
Amazing Book. I loved the drama and thrilling scenes. Thank you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews