It’s a tough universe, even when you don’t have a criminal record. So it’s no surprise that, since being dishonorably discharged from the Star Corps, John MacAlister has bounced from one “not quite legal” job in the Galactic Union to another. Still, life after the Corps hasn’t been a total loss…more like an unmitigated catastrophe.
By his side is his artificially intelligent robot companion (an “artie”) named Alvis. The robot’s existence consists of pointing out every flaw in John’s actions while being forced to endure every consequence.
Still, there is more to Alvis than your average Benko series bot. And when the chips are down, John and Alvis find themselves relying on each other despite their animosity. And it turns out that if you’re someone in trouble and you need help, an aging, washed-out Star Corps pilot and his stubborn artie just might be the heroes you need.
Tom Dell’Aringa is a science fiction writer from the Chicago area who loves great characters. Rick Deckard. Dirk Gently. Ellen Ripley. Roland Deschain. You know who these people are, right?
His stories have believable worlds populated with people you’ll learn to love - and possibly hate. Either way, his books are called “page turners” by his readers for a reason. Each chapter is like the end of that latest Netflix show you are binging... just... one... more.
When he’s not listening to an interesting podcast or chasing down a new bottle of whiskey for his collection, you’ll find him on a long walk working out the next big moment in his next book.
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Good, solid sci fi without fanciful, ridiculous tech. Enjoyable, sometimes funny characters and a great story, especially the third book. Well worth a read,