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The Star Agency Chronicles #1
The Star Agency
alternate cover edition of ASIN:B00AWELPNU
Winner of the IBD "Indie Book of the Day" award for May 19th 2014.
Thirteen-year-old Theopolis James Logan doesn't much care for his first name, but then that's the least of his problems. Still in mourning following the death of his beloved grandfather, isolated from many of his friends and bored out of his mind at school, Theo has sunk to a new low that neither his interfering auntie Annie nor his best friend and neighbour Jules can shake him out of.
Then one morning, Theo unexpectedly receives a mysterious parcel containing a newspaper and a cryptic letter and sets out with Jules to unravel its mystery. Following a trail of clues, Theo is led on a startling voyage of discovery into deep space where he discovers that the Universe is stranger, more exciting and more dangerous than he can possibly imagine. Will he have the courage to leave behind everything he has ever known in pursuit of an exciting new life or will his darkest fears triumph, forever putting his dreams out of reach?
Meanwhile, the mysterious Star Agency watches patiently from the shadows, preparing to make its move...
The Star Agency is book 1 of The Star Agency Chronicles, an interstellar secret agent adventure aimed at readers aged 9 and above.
Winner of the IBD "Indie Book of the Day" award for May 19th 2014.
Thirteen-year-old Theopolis James Logan doesn't much care for his first name, but then that's the least of his problems. Still in mourning following the death of his beloved grandfather, isolated from many of his friends and bored out of his mind at school, Theo has sunk to a new low that neither his interfering auntie Annie nor his best friend and neighbour Jules can shake him out of.
Then one morning, Theo unexpectedly receives a mysterious parcel containing a newspaper and a cryptic letter and sets out with Jules to unravel its mystery. Following a trail of clues, Theo is led on a startling voyage of discovery into deep space where he discovers that the Universe is stranger, more exciting and more dangerous than he can possibly imagine. Will he have the courage to leave behind everything he has ever known in pursuit of an exciting new life or will his darkest fears triumph, forever putting his dreams out of reach?
Meanwhile, the mysterious Star Agency watches patiently from the shadows, preparing to make its move...
The Star Agency is book 1 of The Star Agency Chronicles, an interstellar secret agent adventure aimed at readers aged 9 and above.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
80 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
R.E. Weber
4 books39 followersR.E.Weber began his fiction-writing career in January 2013 by publishing THE STAR AGENCY - an award winning Interstellar Secret Agent adventure, aimed at readers aged 9 and upwards. The second book in the series THE VOYAGES OF THE SEVEN was released in 2015 and book 3, THE TACITAN LEGACY, was released in May 2018.
When not reading or writing, he is often to be found indulging in his other passions, which include running, astronomy and cinema going.
A Yorkshireman, born and bred, he now lives in Bedfordshire, UK with his wife.
When not reading or writing, he is often to be found indulging in his other passions, which include running, astronomy and cinema going.
A Yorkshireman, born and bred, he now lives in Bedfordshire, UK with his wife.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 30, 2014
A story in story
A story in story
a story that starts on. earth,,whith a boy and girl, then the boy lives earth,to a unknown planet then the story begins,and what a story.
A story in story
a story that starts on. earth,,whith a boy and girl, then the boy lives earth,to a unknown planet then the story begins,and what a story.
October 4, 2014
Do computer games use imagination? Theo certainly thinks they do, but his guardian’s not so sure, and his best friend thinks a trip to the bowling alley might help.
So begins R.E. Weber’s Star Agency, a middle-grade novel that will take young Theo from his safe ordinary world into a place where computer games are but a pale reflection of his new reality. Alien creatures, strange weapons, curious landscapes and starfields abound, plus a fine collection of mysteries to be solved.
Readers will follow along with this story, looking for answers even as the characters try to solve their problems. It’s a novel that certainly draws the reader in, with its bereaved thirteen-year-old protagonist, well-imagined worlds of galactic powers and intrigue, and neat mysteries.
"Knowledge and facts are no substitute for... experience," in real life, as well as in this tale. And my only complaint is, it ends like a TV episode with the story half-begun – it's a good ploy to encourage young readers to pick up more books I suppose.
Disclosure: I read about the book online and found a free ecopy.
So begins R.E. Weber’s Star Agency, a middle-grade novel that will take young Theo from his safe ordinary world into a place where computer games are but a pale reflection of his new reality. Alien creatures, strange weapons, curious landscapes and starfields abound, plus a fine collection of mysteries to be solved.
Readers will follow along with this story, looking for answers even as the characters try to solve their problems. It’s a novel that certainly draws the reader in, with its bereaved thirteen-year-old protagonist, well-imagined worlds of galactic powers and intrigue, and neat mysteries.
"Knowledge and facts are no substitute for... experience," in real life, as well as in this tale. And my only complaint is, it ends like a TV episode with the story half-begun – it's a good ploy to encourage young readers to pick up more books I suppose.
Disclosure: I read about the book online and found a free ecopy.
July 22, 2016
Fun Teen Science Fiction
Theopolis Logan, Theo to his friends, is an average thirteen-year-old boy. He loves online role playing games. His favorite sport is running. His best friend is Julie, whose nickname is Jules. His home is Brightside Farm, neither bright nor a working farm and tucked away in a rural, desolate area.
After his beloved grandfather dies and his annoying aunt moves in to take care of him, Theo is sad and angry at the same time. His aunt constantly harangues him about his lack of friends, his time spent at his computer, and, for goodness sake, even his feelings.
A mysterious letter and a package containing an old newspaper pique Theo's interest. With Jules' help, he follows the "breadcrumbs" to a new adventure.
The Star Agency, by R. E. Weber, is a fun science fiction for kids. It's the first book in the Star Agency Chronicles. With questions left unanswered, the second book should continue the exciting adventures.
Theopolis Logan, Theo to his friends, is an average thirteen-year-old boy. He loves online role playing games. His favorite sport is running. His best friend is Julie, whose nickname is Jules. His home is Brightside Farm, neither bright nor a working farm and tucked away in a rural, desolate area.
After his beloved grandfather dies and his annoying aunt moves in to take care of him, Theo is sad and angry at the same time. His aunt constantly harangues him about his lack of friends, his time spent at his computer, and, for goodness sake, even his feelings.
A mysterious letter and a package containing an old newspaper pique Theo's interest. With Jules' help, he follows the "breadcrumbs" to a new adventure.
The Star Agency, by R. E. Weber, is a fun science fiction for kids. It's the first book in the Star Agency Chronicles. With questions left unanswered, the second book should continue the exciting adventures.
August 11, 2016
“The Star Agency” by RE Weber is an excellent fun science fiction read written as experienced through the eyes of a thirteen year old boy called, Theo. He is an instantly relatable and likeable character with a complicated domestic situation and typical teenage issues and interests. He is a bit of a computer nerd/ geek but with one good friend called Jules.
Everything changes with the arrival of a mysterious letter that begins an adventure that eventually even leads into space.
Written with great young characters, which are a joy to follow, this is a hugely entertaining and imaginative story. It reminded me of many great young-adult books I read in my youth, The Star Agency incited the same sense of excitement and adventure. I look forward to more of it in the next book. Very recommendable.
Everything changes with the arrival of a mysterious letter that begins an adventure that eventually even leads into space.
Written with great young characters, which are a joy to follow, this is a hugely entertaining and imaginative story. It reminded me of many great young-adult books I read in my youth, The Star Agency incited the same sense of excitement and adventure. I look forward to more of it in the next book. Very recommendable.
December 19, 2013
The Star Agency (The Star Agency Chronicles) by R.E. Weber
Theopolis James Logan is trying to get over the death of his grandfather, who has been taking care of him. Now his Auntie is taking care of him, which is not working well with him.
One day he gets a puzzling message on his computer and decides with his best friend to figure it out. Later he finds himself on another planet, the aliens want him as part of their Star Agency.
A fun story, Theo is very likable. I liked the writing style, and the story line. I think this would be perfect for middle school readers (as well as young adult and adults too).
Theopolis James Logan is trying to get over the death of his grandfather, who has been taking care of him. Now his Auntie is taking care of him, which is not working well with him.
One day he gets a puzzling message on his computer and decides with his best friend to figure it out. Later he finds himself on another planet, the aliens want him as part of their Star Agency.
A fun story, Theo is very likable. I liked the writing style, and the story line. I think this would be perfect for middle school readers (as well as young adult and adults too).
July 8, 2014
Enjoyable reading
At first I found the story was a little slow and predictable about as the story unfolded I found it became more entertaining and found the story line too gain momentum and genuinely entering.
l would recommend this story for casual reading. I especially 'recommend this book to your
younger audience this reminds me of the stories that I read as a young man. I am reminded of Tom Swift band the Handy boys. I intend to read the book in this series overall well done.
At first I found the story was a little slow and predictable about as the story unfolded I found it became more entertaining and found the story line too gain momentum and genuinely entering.
l would recommend this story for casual reading. I especially 'recommend this book to your
younger audience this reminds me of the stories that I read as a young man. I am reminded of Tom Swift band the Handy boys. I intend to read the book in this series overall well done.
October 13, 2015
As an avid reader, what I look for most in a book is the feeling of depth. The feeling of being in the book, in the thick of things and fighting alongside the hero. R.E.Weber has managed to do that and bring the first book of the Star Agency Chronicles alive. The initial excitement, the slow building up of anticipation, empathy for the characters, I felt it all.
I can sense that this is a fine start to an amazing series. The story revolves around Theo, a regular boy who gets thrown into a world that is new to him and one he must learn to exist in. The settings and background in the book are vivid and detailed and you can actually see the scene unfold in front of you. Reading the book was like watching a movie, the reel unspooling in your head.
The author does not make the book all about the adventure. It is a coming of age novel with real life issues that a teenager has to deal with. It is insightful and youngsters will empathise with the young hero and all that life throws at him.
And then there is the adventure, thrilling and well written, which has you turning pages and reading late into the night to find out where Theo ends up. I do love sci-fi and look forward to reading the rest of the books in this fantastic series by this talented author.
I can sense that this is a fine start to an amazing series. The story revolves around Theo, a regular boy who gets thrown into a world that is new to him and one he must learn to exist in. The settings and background in the book are vivid and detailed and you can actually see the scene unfold in front of you. Reading the book was like watching a movie, the reel unspooling in your head.
The author does not make the book all about the adventure. It is a coming of age novel with real life issues that a teenager has to deal with. It is insightful and youngsters will empathise with the young hero and all that life throws at him.
And then there is the adventure, thrilling and well written, which has you turning pages and reading late into the night to find out where Theo ends up. I do love sci-fi and look forward to reading the rest of the books in this fantastic series by this talented author.
November 29, 2014
I give most books 3 stars because most books are average. I rarely give 5 starts. This book deserves 4 stars.
To start with the "bad" things, it took a few chapters to get into the book. Occasionally things were overly-explained. Toward the end I had to wonder if the author got tired of editing it, as words were missing and grammar got sloppy in a few places.
A couple "facts." It is British writing, so occasionally a word doesn't mean what it does in the US and could cause re-reading of lines or light confusion. (I lived in England for a couple years, so didn't slow me down much.) It is part of a series, and this is part one.
Now the "good" things. Once I got into the story it did a good job of moving along. Suppose to be a kids book, but the storyline was strong and I enjoyed it.
I dislike it when books within a series don't close up their storylines, or perhaps I should say I don't like a lot of open storylines when you get to the end of the book. This left things at a good ending point, and set the stage for the rest of the series.
Overall enjoyed this book..
To start with the "bad" things, it took a few chapters to get into the book. Occasionally things were overly-explained. Toward the end I had to wonder if the author got tired of editing it, as words were missing and grammar got sloppy in a few places.
A couple "facts." It is British writing, so occasionally a word doesn't mean what it does in the US and could cause re-reading of lines or light confusion. (I lived in England for a couple years, so didn't slow me down much.) It is part of a series, and this is part one.
Now the "good" things. Once I got into the story it did a good job of moving along. Suppose to be a kids book, but the storyline was strong and I enjoyed it.
I dislike it when books within a series don't close up their storylines, or perhaps I should say I don't like a lot of open storylines when you get to the end of the book. This left things at a good ending point, and set the stage for the rest of the series.
Overall enjoyed this book..
February 28, 2015
“A SC-FI GEM!!!”
I congratulate R.E. Weber for producing an exciting and thrill-packed science-fiction novel, one that captured and maintained my interest from beginning to end. Well written and brilliantly conceived, The Star Agency is the amazing story of Theopolis James Logan, a thirteen year old high-school student living a depressing existence with his aunt on an isolated farm.
Then everything changed.
The universe came knocking, offering him a chance to change his life, forever. Filled with fear and trepidation, yet consumed by his bold determination, he accepted the offer. His decision propelled him to a life on a distant planet, a life of incredible changes, but fraught with excitement and danger.
Using his skillful and fertile imagination the author takes the reader on Theo’s amazing journey, while simultaneously establishing a wonderful platform for many exciting sequels.
I recommend this novel to readers of all ages.
I congratulate R.E. Weber for producing an exciting and thrill-packed science-fiction novel, one that captured and maintained my interest from beginning to end. Well written and brilliantly conceived, The Star Agency is the amazing story of Theopolis James Logan, a thirteen year old high-school student living a depressing existence with his aunt on an isolated farm.
Then everything changed.
The universe came knocking, offering him a chance to change his life, forever. Filled with fear and trepidation, yet consumed by his bold determination, he accepted the offer. His decision propelled him to a life on a distant planet, a life of incredible changes, but fraught with excitement and danger.
Using his skillful and fertile imagination the author takes the reader on Theo’s amazing journey, while simultaneously establishing a wonderful platform for many exciting sequels.
I recommend this novel to readers of all ages.
January 23, 2015
The Star Agency is a fun and exciting adventure in the sci-fi genre that will be enjoyed by all ages. Theopolis is the protagonist who has lost his grandfather whom he was close to and now is alone. His aunt comes to stay and take care of him. She is not an easy person to get along with and Theopolis finds life difficult with her. His only friend is his neighbor, Jules, who gives Theo her support in everything he does. Theo comes across a mysterious message and must make a difficult decision that will take him out of the world he now calls home.
I found this story fascinating from beginning to end. The technology that the author comes up with from his imagination is incredible in detail. R.E. Weber is definitely creative and talented as a writer and I look forward to more from this author.
I found this story fascinating from beginning to end. The technology that the author comes up with from his imagination is incredible in detail. R.E. Weber is definitely creative and talented as a writer and I look forward to more from this author.
April 1, 2015
Are you in the mood for a great sci-fi book? Then The Star Agency by R.E. Weber is the book for you. This YA book as it has it all, action, adventure and space opera and will keep you glued to its pages.
The author did a great job of developing a story that reflected the insecurities of youth and the curiosity needed to overcome them. There were plenty of plot twist and action to keep the reader hooked throughout the book. It was very easy to get into the storyline and become a part of the tale.
I really like the way R.E. Weber developed his cast of characters. I found them very realistic and easy to follow. Throughout the story you could watch our hero grow and mature as adventure mounted.
I really enjoyed reading The Star Agency by R.E. Weber and highly recommend this book to all readers.
The author did a great job of developing a story that reflected the insecurities of youth and the curiosity needed to overcome them. There were plenty of plot twist and action to keep the reader hooked throughout the book. It was very easy to get into the storyline and become a part of the tale.
I really like the way R.E. Weber developed his cast of characters. I found them very realistic and easy to follow. Throughout the story you could watch our hero grow and mature as adventure mounted.
I really enjoyed reading The Star Agency by R.E. Weber and highly recommend this book to all readers.
November 14, 2014
I really loved this story by R.E. Weber. Great adventure with intrigue, suspense, action…it has it all. This is a perfect book for pre-teens on up. Theo is a 13 year old boy who loves online games. Not to give out any spoilers, but he is off on an unexpected adventure after his beloved grandfather passes on and an aunt is now taking care of him. The unique characters are well-described and you will think of them often, even after you finish the book. Quite a page-turner and brilliantly written, I highly recommend. This book was gifted to me in an exchange promo for an honest review of which I give it high marks. You will not be disappointed!
June 13, 2014
THE STAR AGENCY is a great opening for the series. The novel begins with the tale of Theo, a lonely boy who lives with an aunt for whom he cares little. His only friend, Jules, is a girl from school. Then Theo's life turns toward the mysterious with some bizarre clues that he and Jules decipher. Theo's life goes from mundane to mysterious and exciting as the reader turns the pages of this novel. This is a great novel for middle grade students who enjoy adventure and aliens. This novel is well written and a great story for kids.
March 17, 2016
Reaching For The Stars
A very very good story. It is pretty much the first fantasy/futuristic book I can recall reading. In quite a few places it reminded me of Star Wars movies. On occasion, some of the explanation of things were a bit tedious and drawn out. But for the most part maintained my interest and had enough tidbits to entice me to continue reading. Turned up with a few surprising events as well. Appreciated that the language was pretty clean too. Would definitely recommend more stories by Mr Weber.
A very very good story. It is pretty much the first fantasy/futuristic book I can recall reading. In quite a few places it reminded me of Star Wars movies. On occasion, some of the explanation of things were a bit tedious and drawn out. But for the most part maintained my interest and had enough tidbits to entice me to continue reading. Turned up with a few surprising events as well. Appreciated that the language was pretty clean too. Would definitely recommend more stories by Mr Weber.
July 11, 2015
If you like Sci-fi books, then I think you would really enjoy this book.The author did a good job with the plot and added some nice twists to it as he took young Theo on an adventure of a life time. like many author's work, there are a couple of spots that need some proof reading. Overall, I thought the book was very well written and will make a great addition to any Sci-fi lovers book collection.
February 24, 2015
A journey worth taking.
I enjoyed this book for many reasons. 1 The knowledge that something better awaits each of us, as long as we're willing to follow are hearts. 2 Not be afraid to believe in our hopes and dreams. 3 To have faith in oneself. I would like to think this book appeals to all book lovers.
I enjoyed this book for many reasons. 1 The knowledge that something better awaits each of us, as long as we're willing to follow are hearts. 2 Not be afraid to believe in our hopes and dreams. 3 To have faith in oneself. I would like to think this book appeals to all book lovers.
February 13, 2016
My 9-year-old devoured these books in a mere 5 diys. This was his first foray into the realm of science fiction (he usually reads fantasy), and I am thankful that the content was at an appropriate maturity level with just enough new vocabulary to make it interesting and good for him. We can't wait for the next book!
June 13, 2014
Although there are a few errors, they were easily overlooked. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn't want to put it down.
I am looking forward to further stories of Theo's adventures.
I am looking forward to further stories of Theo's adventures.
July 8, 2014
Fun teenage novel!
June 25, 2017
Another book from my dusty 2015 TBR pile. Can an ebook get dusty? This tale was supposedly written for pre-teens, but I found parts that were too technical for a pre-teens attention span. Heck, they bored me to death too. If you like hard sci-fi, this would be up your alley.
When I started reading the story, it reminded me too much of my first efforts. Which is not a good thing. I’m actually surprised it won an award written this way. I can tell it’s never been through an editor or proofreader’s hands as the writing is weak and repetitive. I almost gave up on it several times, but it had a good story line, so I pushed on. Since this book has been on in my TBR pile for so long, I did go and look at the sample on Amazon, hoping a cleaner edition had been published. Nope. Nada.
This is a long story that starts on Earth where Theo’s trying to deal with the recent death of his grandfather, the person he’s lived with most of his young life. Weber does have a unique take on how Theo ends up being invited to join an alien agency out in space. The technology Weber envisions is our possible future. But, Weber goes into too much detail about the technology. Like I said before, if you like hard sci-fi, you would love this stuff. Unfortunately, most of it could’ve been edited out as it did not advance the plot, but bogged down the flow of the story.
The different species Theo finds on Polisium Prime are also unique and different. His instructors are Orientator and First Mentor, two opposite personalities. Theo also meets up with several other children that were invited from Earth to become emissaries for their planet. Even though they were from different countries, they all talked like Theo, which only made them an extension of himself. There is a somewhat love interest between Theo and Ruby, but when a new girl is introduced at the end, all eyes are on her. Kinda a typical teen romance we see everywhere. The girl the boy should be with isn’t the one he wants, until the end, which we won’t know unless we buy the next book.
Once Theo goes on his first secret mission, the action really ramps up. Well, as much as it can with weak writing. There is a prologue in the book that is actually where the action starts, and I wonder if the story shouldn’t have started there to begin with. That’s what a good editor is for. Anyway, Theo has many choices to make and there are a lot of unanswered questions. Sadly, I won’t be going forward with the series.
If you love a romp through space to meet some interesting alien life-forms, and you don’t mind needless prose, you might find this story entertaining. I give it 3 space ships.
When I started reading the story, it reminded me too much of my first efforts. Which is not a good thing. I’m actually surprised it won an award written this way. I can tell it’s never been through an editor or proofreader’s hands as the writing is weak and repetitive. I almost gave up on it several times, but it had a good story line, so I pushed on. Since this book has been on in my TBR pile for so long, I did go and look at the sample on Amazon, hoping a cleaner edition had been published. Nope. Nada.
This is a long story that starts on Earth where Theo’s trying to deal with the recent death of his grandfather, the person he’s lived with most of his young life. Weber does have a unique take on how Theo ends up being invited to join an alien agency out in space. The technology Weber envisions is our possible future. But, Weber goes into too much detail about the technology. Like I said before, if you like hard sci-fi, you would love this stuff. Unfortunately, most of it could’ve been edited out as it did not advance the plot, but bogged down the flow of the story.
The different species Theo finds on Polisium Prime are also unique and different. His instructors are Orientator and First Mentor, two opposite personalities. Theo also meets up with several other children that were invited from Earth to become emissaries for their planet. Even though they were from different countries, they all talked like Theo, which only made them an extension of himself. There is a somewhat love interest between Theo and Ruby, but when a new girl is introduced at the end, all eyes are on her. Kinda a typical teen romance we see everywhere. The girl the boy should be with isn’t the one he wants, until the end, which we won’t know unless we buy the next book.
Once Theo goes on his first secret mission, the action really ramps up. Well, as much as it can with weak writing. There is a prologue in the book that is actually where the action starts, and I wonder if the story shouldn’t have started there to begin with. That’s what a good editor is for. Anyway, Theo has many choices to make and there are a lot of unanswered questions. Sadly, I won’t be going forward with the series.
If you love a romp through space to meet some interesting alien life-forms, and you don’t mind needless prose, you might find this story entertaining. I give it 3 space ships.
January 2, 2020
I realize this was written in Uk english, and the fact that it was written for young adult readers does nothing to reduce the enjoyment a scifi fan will get out of this book, but I'm sorry, I just can't get around the whole no verb conjugation thing uk authors seem to have going on. It's always sat, even if it should be sit or sitting, I haven't a clue why this bothers me so much, but it just irritates me to no end. I don't mind the whole different words thing, holiday instead of vacation, and boot instead of trunk, but sat and span (instead of spun) just get to me in a way I can't explain.
Anyway, enough of my griping.
It's a good story if the british english doesn't bother you, and even though it's for a younger audience, I really enjoyed the story anyway, and I think most scifi fans would too, especially if they're the kind that like space adventures like I do. I've already obtained the other two in the series, and will be reading those too, just as soon as I can figure out where to put them in the reading cue.
Anyway, enough of my griping.
It's a good story if the british english doesn't bother you, and even though it's for a younger audience, I really enjoyed the story anyway, and I think most scifi fans would too, especially if they're the kind that like space adventures like I do. I've already obtained the other two in the series, and will be reading those too, just as soon as I can figure out where to put them in the reading cue.
September 23, 2017
Good read
Good, fun read. Drags a bit in places, but still quite enjoyable. I recommend it. Good foundation for the series.
Good, fun read. Drags a bit in places, but still quite enjoyable. I recommend it. Good foundation for the series.
December 18, 2020
There are lots of very good things about this book. It’s a science fiction book for age 9 and over (Middle Grade) with lots of excitement. It has a boy protagonist with lots of girls in independent and sometimes superior roles. It has really weird beings from other planets and star system. You’re not supposed to call them aliens, but the author traps himself every now and then. The imagination and the world-building is superb.
It starts off a long long way from science fiction, though. A middlegrader with a low attention span may well get bored before our hero gets taken to the star agency for the first time, let alone after he’s made his mind up to go. Even I double-checked this was the book I thought it was! Once we get off-earth, the author stumbles for a while, describing every step of the way in detail; how every door opens, how the mask attaches itself to his face… I cringed.
I didn’t cringe at the author, I cringed at myself, because one passage was almost identical to the one in my first fiction book (age 20 or so), the one where the well-meaning (hm) friend told me it was rubbish. The one where after that feedback, I believed I couldn’t write fiction.
Well Mr Weber can write fiction. In my opinion it needs improvement, this discovering all about the space station our hero has landed on. Description is fine, but this goes on for a long time. Well, jarring teen-type banter occasionally breaks in.
Once it gets away from the detail, it’s a great story. Our hero proves himself in a test that goes badly wrong, and he and his mates bond so well they become ‘the Seven.’ It’s great stuff for the age group, and probably deserved its IBD award. I think the second in the series is much better. But having reread my own books for a pre-audiobook edit just recently, I think a lot of us can say that.
I should also add that the book originally came out in 2013, and I may have had it for several years. So it might have had a revamp.
It starts off a long long way from science fiction, though. A middlegrader with a low attention span may well get bored before our hero gets taken to the star agency for the first time, let alone after he’s made his mind up to go. Even I double-checked this was the book I thought it was! Once we get off-earth, the author stumbles for a while, describing every step of the way in detail; how every door opens, how the mask attaches itself to his face… I cringed.
I didn’t cringe at the author, I cringed at myself, because one passage was almost identical to the one in my first fiction book (age 20 or so), the one where the well-meaning (hm) friend told me it was rubbish. The one where after that feedback, I believed I couldn’t write fiction.
Well Mr Weber can write fiction. In my opinion it needs improvement, this discovering all about the space station our hero has landed on. Description is fine, but this goes on for a long time. Well, jarring teen-type banter occasionally breaks in.
Once it gets away from the detail, it’s a great story. Our hero proves himself in a test that goes badly wrong, and he and his mates bond so well they become ‘the Seven.’ It’s great stuff for the age group, and probably deserved its IBD award. I think the second in the series is much better. But having reread my own books for a pre-audiobook edit just recently, I think a lot of us can say that.
I should also add that the book originally came out in 2013, and I may have had it for several years. So it might have had a revamp.
August 12, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this story about Theopolis James Logan's grand adventure, which has barely begun, since this is the first book in a series. He's a somewhat typical 13 year old, highly intelligent, a bit too outspoken for his own good, bored with school as the highly intelligent usually are, and generally disaffected by his life. Sound familiar? Whether you're someone who has already survived the teen years or dealing with them yourself, you will relate to Theo.
The suspense is well-sustained and keeps you turning the pages. The author has spun a great science fiction tale and created a vivid world. This story is a clean read with plenty of adventure and believable characters. While suitable for young readers, it's an enjoyable "stress free" read for adults as well. However, remember this story is designed and targeted for younger readers, for whom it's an excellent introduction to the world of sci-fi, but may not be what you're looking for if you're expecting a more sophisticated story/writing style populated with adult characters.
I appreciate the fact that the author stated that this book took years to write. I have to admit that I can truly relate to that, since mine did, too. To fully confess, I, too have written a young adult science fiction series and I truly believe that anyone who enjoys Weber's story would enjoy my Star Trails Tetralogy and vice versa.
The suspense is well-sustained and keeps you turning the pages. The author has spun a great science fiction tale and created a vivid world. This story is a clean read with plenty of adventure and believable characters. While suitable for young readers, it's an enjoyable "stress free" read for adults as well. However, remember this story is designed and targeted for younger readers, for whom it's an excellent introduction to the world of sci-fi, but may not be what you're looking for if you're expecting a more sophisticated story/writing style populated with adult characters.
I appreciate the fact that the author stated that this book took years to write. I have to admit that I can truly relate to that, since mine did, too. To fully confess, I, too have written a young adult science fiction series and I truly believe that anyone who enjoys Weber's story would enjoy my Star Trails Tetralogy and vice versa.
April 15, 2016
I didn't love this one, but take that as you would from someone who isn't a huge sci-fi fan, especially when it involves interplanetary travel and aliens, and advanced technology. People who enjoy that kind of story will likely enjoy this one. I do also think it is for younger readers (I am an adult). I think you could safely say this is like an Ender's game for a younger audience. I will say that it spent a lot of time with the main character in training and learning how to use the advanced technology, which I found boring. The beginning was exciting and the end was pretty good, but it lagged in the middle for me.
July 13, 2015
This was a good book. The reason it did not get a five is I thought the use of the term erm was used way too often.
The story line is good for a young adult novel. The plot was different from other space stories which made it interesting. The characters made you think of other worlds and allowed you to imagine beings beyond humans. But the over use of the term erm got to be annoying so this kept it from getting 4 stars.
The story line is good for a young adult novel. The plot was different from other space stories which made it interesting. The characters made you think of other worlds and allowed you to imagine beings beyond humans. But the over use of the term erm got to be annoying so this kept it from getting 4 stars.
June 6, 2016
I really liked this book. This is a great start to the series. It's got mystery, action, adventure, suspense and even a little romance. I'll admit i was kinda torn between Logan's relationship with Jules and Ruby. Who do you root for? My wife says I'm really just a big kid so I'm sure that kids are going to love this! I look forward to The Voyage of the Seven when I finally get to it! A great first novel by Mr. Weber!
December 30, 2015
The characters were younger teens, so it's not a series that I'll continue to read. However, it was a very fun read filled with interesting sci-fi elements, suspenseful moments, and family drama. I'd recommend it for early teen readers.
September 14, 2016
Interesting read
The story and plot was very interesting. There were a few errors in either spelling or grammar. But overall a good book.
The story and plot was very interesting. There were a few errors in either spelling or grammar. But overall a good book.
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