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RCN #3
The Far Side of the Stars
While Cinnabar is at peace with the Alliance, warriors like Lt Daniel Leary and Signals Officer Adele Mundy must find other work - and escort nobles in the Princess Cecile. Now a private yacht, she still has her guns, missiles, and veteran crew - and needs all to face winged dragons, an Alliance cruiser, jealous lovers, and a future-telling oracle.
514 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2003
72 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
David Drake
306 books886 followersDavid Drake is an American author of science fiction and fantasy literature. A Vietnam War veteran who has worked as a lawyer, he is now one of the major authors of the military science fiction genre.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
July 19, 2023
Patrick O'Brian in space
One of the best books in David Drake's Lt. Leary series. This one delves into individual characters more than do some of the others. There is still plenty of pulse-pounding action.
One of the best books in David Drake's Lt. Leary series. This one delves into individual characters more than do some of the others. There is still plenty of pulse-pounding action.
June 14, 2020
6/11/17 re-read 4th? time. Each book of this series gets better and better.
June 11, 2018
I do like this series. :)
It's mostly due to how I identify with Adele though. ;)
Essentially an extrovert (Leary) adopts an introvert (Adele) with a complicated political history between their houses, which they ignore with aplomb.
Due to the introvert's skill set -- the Extrovert gets pulled into interesting situations -- which they may not survive. ;)
It's mostly due to how I identify with Adele though. ;)
Essentially an extrovert (Leary) adopts an introvert (Adele) with a complicated political history between their houses, which they ignore with aplomb.
Due to the introvert's skill set -- the Extrovert gets pulled into interesting situations -- which they may not survive. ;)
March 15, 2024
Wanderlust
In The Far Side of the Stars, the author reminds us that the Age of Sail was also one of exploration. Unlike the modern sci-fi portrayal of space as a lifeless, inhospitable frontier, this campy adventure novel envisions plentiful planets teeming with megafauna and resources. Every system has its share of forgotten secrets and hidden treasures. Exploration is its own reward, and the topic of capitalistic exploitation never comes up. This style of worldbuilding feels dated, reminiscent of Flash Gordon or Star Wars, but leaves the reader with a sense of wonder as the protagonists sail to the next star.
Protagonists Leary and Mundy find themselves on half-pay as the two superpowers pause their eternal war, and that’s all the excuse necessary to wander off into the unknown. While allegedly on some vague mission, character personalities drive the story. Mundy’s tragic background comes to the fore as she grapples with her place in the nation that sanctioned the death of her family. Leary bares his heart and soul as he employs all the resources at his command to care for his crew. Exploits on Cinnabar form multi-novel arcs that remind readers of the series’s inspiration: Aubrey-Maturin.
Unfortunately, that series’s pacing was leisurely and meandering. The Far Side of the Stars is similar, as the reader is never sure where the story is going. Conservation of Detail provides some foreshadowing, though even then, there are many tangents and red herrings on Galactic history. Loose ends exist relating to the Population Wars and alien sentience. Were the author less skilled, these diversions would be frustrating. Instead, readers luxuriate in copious worldbuilding while also hunting for that single detail that indicates the future plot twist.
The author’s penchant for warfare has consistently culminated in spectacular third acts of violence and The Far Side of the Stars is no exception. While episodic, this story rewards series regulars with plenty of action and equally satisfying improvements to Leary's and Mundy’s personal lives.
Recommended.
In The Far Side of the Stars, the author reminds us that the Age of Sail was also one of exploration. Unlike the modern sci-fi portrayal of space as a lifeless, inhospitable frontier, this campy adventure novel envisions plentiful planets teeming with megafauna and resources. Every system has its share of forgotten secrets and hidden treasures. Exploration is its own reward, and the topic of capitalistic exploitation never comes up. This style of worldbuilding feels dated, reminiscent of Flash Gordon or Star Wars, but leaves the reader with a sense of wonder as the protagonists sail to the next star.
Protagonists Leary and Mundy find themselves on half-pay as the two superpowers pause their eternal war, and that’s all the excuse necessary to wander off into the unknown. While allegedly on some vague mission, character personalities drive the story. Mundy’s tragic background comes to the fore as she grapples with her place in the nation that sanctioned the death of her family. Leary bares his heart and soul as he employs all the resources at his command to care for his crew. Exploits on Cinnabar form multi-novel arcs that remind readers of the series’s inspiration: Aubrey-Maturin.
Unfortunately, that series’s pacing was leisurely and meandering. The Far Side of the Stars is similar, as the reader is never sure where the story is going. Conservation of Detail provides some foreshadowing, though even then, there are many tangents and red herrings on Galactic history. Loose ends exist relating to the Population Wars and alien sentience. Were the author less skilled, these diversions would be frustrating. Instead, readers luxuriate in copious worldbuilding while also hunting for that single detail that indicates the future plot twist.
The author’s penchant for warfare has consistently culminated in spectacular third acts of violence and The Far Side of the Stars is no exception. While episodic, this story rewards series regulars with plenty of action and equally satisfying improvements to Leary's and Mundy’s personal lives.
Recommended.
July 31, 2011
The third book in Drake's highly enjoyable space opera series continues his tradition of transposing 18th century British naval situations into space. This time out, Daniel Leary's former command, the corvette "Princess Cecile", is decommissioned and sold to a wealthy foreign noble intent on exploring the "Galactic North", where piracy abounds, as well as uncivilized planets that still haven't recovered from the Hiatus in interstellar travel. Leary is hired to captain the ship, and he hires all the "Sissy"'s former naval crew to run her. Off they set into high space, bound for adventure.
It has been a long time since I read a pure picaresque space adventure. When I was quite young, I devoured such stories in very short sittings, drunk on the infinite possibilities to be found in the universe. Coming to one from a more experienced and informed perspective, I mostly saw the limitations that Drake's story set upon the possibilities. And didn't mind them, either, since Drake is a sterling storyteller.
There was none of the initial bloat that I felt unbalanced the second book, the story clips right along, from planet to planet, with plenty of action along the way, and in particular a thumping good climactic battle. I very much like the future history Drake has created for this series, and the possibilities it leaves open for further adventures and exploration. I hope, at some future point, that he has a more cerebral adventure in the series, one where Adele Mundy's pursuit of some historical nugget of information (most likely a book) drives the story, more than military tactical advantage. There's always a bit of that, but I'd find it fun to have the battle stuff be incidental background music for once, rather than front and center every time.
All in all, thoroughly fun and quite a satisfying read.
It has been a long time since I read a pure picaresque space adventure. When I was quite young, I devoured such stories in very short sittings, drunk on the infinite possibilities to be found in the universe. Coming to one from a more experienced and informed perspective, I mostly saw the limitations that Drake's story set upon the possibilities. And didn't mind them, either, since Drake is a sterling storyteller.
There was none of the initial bloat that I felt unbalanced the second book, the story clips right along, from planet to planet, with plenty of action along the way, and in particular a thumping good climactic battle. I very much like the future history Drake has created for this series, and the possibilities it leaves open for further adventures and exploration. I hope, at some future point, that he has a more cerebral adventure in the series, one where Adele Mundy's pursuit of some historical nugget of information (most likely a book) drives the story, more than military tactical advantage. There's always a bit of that, but I'd find it fun to have the battle stuff be incidental background music for once, rather than front and center every time.
All in all, thoroughly fun and quite a satisfying read.
June 29, 2024
The beginning was boring, some humorous moments, more biologically made up creatures. The tree isn’t unique as a story but it was what changed the atmosphere and more action, more space battles (which I like). Still I like Mundi character best and not the younger dashing officer.
July 19, 2021
The Republic of Cinnabar and the Alliance have declared a truce and are at peace. This means that Daniel Leary and Adele Mundy are now on reserve, and the Princess Cecile has been sold to a wealthy couple, the Klimovs. The Klimovs want to hire a captain and crew for the ship, to take them to Galactic North, and independent territory of traders, pirates, and potential lost artifacts, as well as where past rebels had fled. So Daniel and his crew wind up hired to crew the Cecile. And Adele has a secret mission: determine the lay of the land and whether the Alliance is doing anything there.
Much of the first two thirds of the novel can be described as a picaresque: the Sissies (as the crew of the Princess Cecile refer to themselves as) and their two new owners jump from planet to planet encountering hostile fauna, various natives, and some alliance officers that Count Klimov cheated at cards. Finally, though, they wind up on a planet of religious zealots, who capture Daniel, and try to make him the new emissary of the billion year old sentient tree that is the center of their cult. In the process, Daniel learns that the Alliance is building up a military force, and the rest of the novel involves how the Sissies deal with that.
Once again, Drake has done a great job channeling the spirit of Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey and Maturin in his characters Leary and Mundy. Their personalities, as well as their interactions with each other and with their shipmates are very reminiscent of O'Brian's creations. And several of the other characters -- Hogg, Daniel's manservant and bodyguard; Tovera, Mundy's sociopathic servant; Woetjans, the bosun -- all come more and more alive with each book in the series.
The book is a page turner, even in the first sections where there isn't as much a plot as a series of unconnected actions. And the battle scenes in the book's finale are very good indeed.
I've already bought the next book and will read it later this month.
Much of the first two thirds of the novel can be described as a picaresque: the Sissies (as the crew of the Princess Cecile refer to themselves as) and their two new owners jump from planet to planet encountering hostile fauna, various natives, and some alliance officers that Count Klimov cheated at cards. Finally, though, they wind up on a planet of religious zealots, who capture Daniel, and try to make him the new emissary of the billion year old sentient tree that is the center of their cult. In the process, Daniel learns that the Alliance is building up a military force, and the rest of the novel involves how the Sissies deal with that.
Once again, Drake has done a great job channeling the spirit of Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey and Maturin in his characters Leary and Mundy. Their personalities, as well as their interactions with each other and with their shipmates are very reminiscent of O'Brian's creations. And several of the other characters -- Hogg, Daniel's manservant and bodyguard; Tovera, Mundy's sociopathic servant; Woetjans, the bosun -- all come more and more alive with each book in the series.
The book is a page turner, even in the first sections where there isn't as much a plot as a series of unconnected actions. And the battle scenes in the book's finale are very good indeed.
I've already bought the next book and will read it later this month.
July 5, 2021
Military personnel take rich civilians on a tour after being mustered out - 4 stars
Using their wealth from their homeworld, Novy Sverdlovsk, the Klimovs purchase the cruiser Princess Cecile and offer the command of the vessel to Daniel Leary, The just-dismissed from the navy crew is loyal to their commanding officer and apparently are willing to follow him anywhere. Adele Mundy, Like the Captain, is of high class and is an expert in data. Adele was a nerd of considerable talent which will make her the second most valuable person in the small crew.
The ex-navy, now civilian crew performs the dreary job of keeping a starship functioning. This starship, the Princess Cecile, is powered by nuclear engines and ...sails.
The story is based on planetary hops, skirmishes and some battles. The people they meet on each new-to-them landfall speak the same language, breathe air and are generally welcoming. There are only humans, no aliens. Except for the non-welcoming folks--you will warm to the crew. Almost all measurements are in feet and customary American units. Infrequently metric measurements are tossed in but Imperial units dominate.
The story starts off with a funeral service so that you get to know the families and the political situation. The funeral service was excessively long. After the introduction (first 20% of the book), action finally begins and the story moves quickly, jumping into hyperspace and back with gut-wrenching descriptions. The relationship between the officers and crew is disconcertingly referred to as master-servant. Most of the relationships are formal as they might be on a navy vessel.
If you enjoy military exceptionalism and an independent set of leaders, this book is for you. It is a fun romp into the known unknown with bravery and luck hand in hand.
Using their wealth from their homeworld, Novy Sverdlovsk, the Klimovs purchase the cruiser Princess Cecile and offer the command of the vessel to Daniel Leary, The just-dismissed from the navy crew is loyal to their commanding officer and apparently are willing to follow him anywhere. Adele Mundy, Like the Captain, is of high class and is an expert in data. Adele was a nerd of considerable talent which will make her the second most valuable person in the small crew.
The ex-navy, now civilian crew performs the dreary job of keeping a starship functioning. This starship, the Princess Cecile, is powered by nuclear engines and ...sails.
The story is based on planetary hops, skirmishes and some battles. The people they meet on each new-to-them landfall speak the same language, breathe air and are generally welcoming. There are only humans, no aliens. Except for the non-welcoming folks--you will warm to the crew. Almost all measurements are in feet and customary American units. Infrequently metric measurements are tossed in but Imperial units dominate.
The story starts off with a funeral service so that you get to know the families and the political situation. The funeral service was excessively long. After the introduction (first 20% of the book), action finally begins and the story moves quickly, jumping into hyperspace and back with gut-wrenching descriptions. The relationship between the officers and crew is disconcertingly referred to as master-servant. Most of the relationships are formal as they might be on a navy vessel.
If you enjoy military exceptionalism and an independent set of leaders, this book is for you. It is a fun romp into the known unknown with bravery and luck hand in hand.
January 26, 2022
This space opera was another engaging entry into the Daniel Leary/Adele Mundy series. With peace breaking out, Daniel is put on half-pay by the RCN and the Princess Cecile is set to be sold.
When the ship is purchased by rich outworlders, Daniel is hired as Captain, and he hires her former crew. They are heading to the Galactic North on a search for a legendary artifact known as the Earth Diamond. Adele has been tasked by Mistress Sand to check into rumors that the Alliance is building a base which is nearly finished.
The pair have a variety of adventures along the way. They hunt flying dragons, encounter jealous lovers, flee from a riot begun with an accusation of cheating at cards, and run into a religious order with shady practices, before they find that the rumors of the Alliance Base are true.
Adele has a stronger than usual role in this story. She is a viewpoint character here and we get to know more about how she feels about the Three Circle Conspiracy which changed her life and murdered her family. She has found a new family in Daniel Leary and the crew of the Princess Cecile and her loyalty to them is absolute.
Despite Daniel's hobbies of drinking and consorting of vapid young women, he is a man of deep loyalties to Cinnabar and the RCN. And, though he tries to distance himself from his estranged father, he is a savvy political operator when he has to be.
The story was exciting and fast-paced. It was filled with various adventures which show the world Drake has built. The narrator did a good job with both the pacing of the story and the various characters. Fans of space opera will enjoy this tale.
When the ship is purchased by rich outworlders, Daniel is hired as Captain, and he hires her former crew. They are heading to the Galactic North on a search for a legendary artifact known as the Earth Diamond. Adele has been tasked by Mistress Sand to check into rumors that the Alliance is building a base which is nearly finished.
The pair have a variety of adventures along the way. They hunt flying dragons, encounter jealous lovers, flee from a riot begun with an accusation of cheating at cards, and run into a religious order with shady practices, before they find that the rumors of the Alliance Base are true.
Adele has a stronger than usual role in this story. She is a viewpoint character here and we get to know more about how she feels about the Three Circle Conspiracy which changed her life and murdered her family. She has found a new family in Daniel Leary and the crew of the Princess Cecile and her loyalty to them is absolute.
Despite Daniel's hobbies of drinking and consorting of vapid young women, he is a man of deep loyalties to Cinnabar and the RCN. And, though he tries to distance himself from his estranged father, he is a savvy political operator when he has to be.
The story was exciting and fast-paced. It was filled with various adventures which show the world Drake has built. The narrator did a good job with both the pacing of the story and the various characters. Fans of space opera will enjoy this tale.
January 12, 2012
I don't know if David Drake is incapable of doing so, but the books in this series are remarkably bereft of "normal" female characters. And by normal I don't mean girly or stereotypically female, I mean mentally well-adjusted human beings. Some of the background characters and too minor to be noticed, and every major female character has some vast character flaw or oddity. Two of the main female characters in his books are both sociologically cut off; one is completely psychotic while the other is almost there. The countess in this book is all over the map, but is more of a caricature than anything else. The most normal prominent female is probably the head-rigger, Woetjans, who is perhaps overly-masculine in her portrayal as the rugged marine sergeant (on the other hand, there is certainly something positive to be said about the fact that by-and-large, Drake doesn't make any distinction amongst the sexes with respect to anything they can or cannot do or accomplish or how the primary societies view them).
For the most part, the plot is fairly boring. Drake is trying to capture the adventure of research and exploration vessels from the 17 and 1800's, but I found it simply didn't gel very well. The end fell more typically into the style and plot of the other books, and this was mildly better than the rest, but felt rather contrived at times.
Maybe it would help if one of his primary characters wasn't so dislikeable
For the most part, the plot is fairly boring. Drake is trying to capture the adventure of research and exploration vessels from the 17 and 1800's, but I found it simply didn't gel very well. The end fell more typically into the style and plot of the other books, and this was mildly better than the rest, but felt rather contrived at times.
Maybe it would help if one of his primary characters wasn't so dislikeable
August 10, 2020
It's not good, really. None of the books in this series are.
This is more a series of linked novellas than a full novel - there is one cohesive story in there, but it's told through several shorter stories, much like a season of (for example) Babylon 5 - each season has an arc, but each episode is (usually) a self-contained story that also advances the main arc.
This is more a series of linked novellas than a full novel - there is one cohesive story in there, but it's told through several shorter stories, much like a season of (for example) Babylon 5 - each season has an arc, but each episode is (usually) a self-contained story that also advances the main arc.
September 10, 2024
Another great entry into the Cinnabar series, Leary and Mundy are a great team that balances the skills of each to provide a greater whole. Any fan of Hornblower, Bolitho, Ramage or Lewrie will love this series.
March 10, 2023
Still probably my favorite of the RCN series. I love the "side quest adventure" kind of story.
July 16, 2025
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David Drake’s The Far Side of the Stars is a gripping and richly imagined space adventure that showcases the author at the top of his game. As the third entry in the RCN Series, this novel seamlessly blends classic naval adventure storytelling with a futuristic science fiction setting, offering readers a thrilling, character-driven narrative full of political intrigue, exploration, and action.
At the heart of the story are two of Drake’s most compelling creations: Daniel Leary, a courageous and resourceful lieutenant in the Republic of Cinnabar Navy, and Adele Mundy, a brilliant information specialist with a sharp intellect and a cool, unflappable demeanor. Their partnership continues to be the soul of the series. Leary brings charisma, tactical brilliance, and a touch of swashbuckling flair, while Mundy balances the team with her precision, analytical mind, and emotionally reserved strength. Their friendship and mutual respect form a refreshing dynamic that avoids cliché, offering instead a bond forged in trust and tested by danger.
The novel kicks off with a mysterious and politically sensitive mission that takes the crew of Princess Cecile deep into uncharted space. What begins as a relatively straightforward assignment soon evolves into a complex voyage involving rival powers, ancient artifacts, and hidden agendas. The stakes are high, but Drake never loses sight of the human element—each character, no matter how minor, feels lived-in and believable.
Drake's experience as a Vietnam War veteran lends a realism to the military aspects of the book. The space combat is smartly rendered, tense, and strategically complex, with a focus on logistics, maneuvering, and discipline rather than flashy heroics. It's this realism, coupled with the deep sense of honour and camaraderie among the crew, that gives the novel emotional weight and moral depth.
The pacing is well-calibrated, alternating between moments of high-stakes action and quieter interludes of character development and political machination. Drake's world-building continues to impress, with each new planet or culture feeling distinct and thoughtfully constructed. He takes the time to explore the socio-political consequences of technology, war, and power, giving the book a depth that goes beyond its fast-moving plot.
Though the novel is part of a series, it stands well on its own, providing enough context for new readers while rewarding returning fans with further development of the larger universe. Drake’s prose is straightforward and efficient, often laced with dry wit, and always driven by a clear sense of purpose and momentum.
In The Far Side of the Stars, David Drake delivers more than just an exciting spacefaring tale—he offers a meditation on duty, friendship, and resilience in the face of uncertainty. It’s an engrossing read that balances intellect with adventure, and it solidifies the RCN series as one of the great full of human interactions, cunning and edge of the seat and pulse pounding from ground to the space enjoyable military sci-fi sagas available that will keep you right on the very edge of your seat!
David Drake’s The Far Side of the Stars is a gripping and richly imagined space adventure that showcases the author at the top of his game. As the third entry in the RCN Series, this novel seamlessly blends classic naval adventure storytelling with a futuristic science fiction setting, offering readers a thrilling, character-driven narrative full of political intrigue, exploration, and action.
At the heart of the story are two of Drake’s most compelling creations: Daniel Leary, a courageous and resourceful lieutenant in the Republic of Cinnabar Navy, and Adele Mundy, a brilliant information specialist with a sharp intellect and a cool, unflappable demeanor. Their partnership continues to be the soul of the series. Leary brings charisma, tactical brilliance, and a touch of swashbuckling flair, while Mundy balances the team with her precision, analytical mind, and emotionally reserved strength. Their friendship and mutual respect form a refreshing dynamic that avoids cliché, offering instead a bond forged in trust and tested by danger.
The novel kicks off with a mysterious and politically sensitive mission that takes the crew of Princess Cecile deep into uncharted space. What begins as a relatively straightforward assignment soon evolves into a complex voyage involving rival powers, ancient artifacts, and hidden agendas. The stakes are high, but Drake never loses sight of the human element—each character, no matter how minor, feels lived-in and believable.
Drake's experience as a Vietnam War veteran lends a realism to the military aspects of the book. The space combat is smartly rendered, tense, and strategically complex, with a focus on logistics, maneuvering, and discipline rather than flashy heroics. It's this realism, coupled with the deep sense of honour and camaraderie among the crew, that gives the novel emotional weight and moral depth.
The pacing is well-calibrated, alternating between moments of high-stakes action and quieter interludes of character development and political machination. Drake's world-building continues to impress, with each new planet or culture feeling distinct and thoughtfully constructed. He takes the time to explore the socio-political consequences of technology, war, and power, giving the book a depth that goes beyond its fast-moving plot.
Though the novel is part of a series, it stands well on its own, providing enough context for new readers while rewarding returning fans with further development of the larger universe. Drake’s prose is straightforward and efficient, often laced with dry wit, and always driven by a clear sense of purpose and momentum.
In The Far Side of the Stars, David Drake delivers more than just an exciting spacefaring tale—he offers a meditation on duty, friendship, and resilience in the face of uncertainty. It’s an engrossing read that balances intellect with adventure, and it solidifies the RCN series as one of the great full of human interactions, cunning and edge of the seat and pulse pounding from ground to the space enjoyable military sci-fi sagas available that will keep you right on the very edge of your seat!
August 1, 2024
The characters other than Leary and Mundy are made to behave in a manner too stupid to be believable and the interactions between the two main characters and all these, mostly the crew, becomes just absurd to read after a while.
Honestly at times Leary also acts addled or what I consider intellectually out of character, an example of which is punctuated with the odd interaction in the last RCN related scene of this book.
Just awkwardly written in my opinion.
The authors decision to make the books more comprehensible/accessible than not for readers who pick up a book in the series at random, makes the reading of the series as a whole, in order and close together, an annoying pain.
Honestly at times Leary also acts addled or what I consider intellectually out of character, an example of which is punctuated with the odd interaction in the last RCN related scene of this book.
Just awkwardly written in my opinion.
The authors decision to make the books more comprehensible/accessible than not for readers who pick up a book in the series at random, makes the reading of the series as a whole, in order and close together, an annoying pain.
December 11, 2023
Part of the series.
Lady Mundy and Lt. Leary are now "decomishend" a long with the Princess Cecile. But as usual they stumble into trouble.
The Ship is bought by two wealthy people looking for a lost relic and they rehire the old crew. Let's say things just don't go smoothly.
But then they never do when Lt. Daniel Leary and Signals Officer Adele Mundy are involved.
Lady Mundy and Lt. Leary are now "decomishend" a long with the Princess Cecile. But as usual they stumble into trouble.
The Ship is bought by two wealthy people looking for a lost relic and they rehire the old crew. Let's say things just don't go smoothly.
But then they never do when Lt. Daniel Leary and Signals Officer Adele Mundy are involved.
May 22, 2017
Peace finds Leary and Mundy in the hinterlands where of course they discover an Alliance plot that could relaunch the war. They are just glad to have the Princess Cecile and her veteran crew with them. Plenty action and intrigue to entertain.
May 29, 2018
Peace.
Not the best time for a military man to ply his trade.
Thus Daniel Leary finds himself on half-pay & with no ship, since the RCN has sold the Cissie.
So, join Leary & Mindy as they wander thru the back corners of the universe.
Not the best time for a military man to ply his trade.
Thus Daniel Leary finds himself on half-pay & with no ship, since the RCN has sold the Cissie.
So, join Leary & Mindy as they wander thru the back corners of the universe.
December 26, 2021
3.5 stars - it was OK? I quite liked some of the story arcs, but some other things really didn't work out. The plot twist at the end was very much expected and the descriptions of hide-and-seek fights around a planet were very unrealistic, and so threw me off a fair bit.
August 16, 2023
Different direction for the series but overall an enjoyable read. I always think that Drake could pare down his books but I never know what to cut... oh well.
Age Rating: 15+ (Language, violence, nudity)
Age Rating: 15+ (Language, violence, nudity)
December 31, 2018
Great space opera
Interesting characters in a rollicking space opera reminiscent of the great space operas of the sixties and the early seventies
Interesting characters in a rollicking space opera reminiscent of the great space operas of the sixties and the early seventies
September 10, 2019
A nice installment. A good job of place hoping and showing other worlds.
June 20, 2020
Started out S L O W. Then sped up.
February 13, 2021
Just a sweet story..
Action, daring do... And a little bit of love!
Plus some good humor!! This is not your normal space opera!!! 5 out of 5 because it was good enjoyment!
Action, daring do... And a little bit of love!
Plus some good humor!! This is not your normal space opera!!! 5 out of 5 because it was good enjoyment!
August 17, 2022
Irritating. Drake repeats himself in the book, continually. In addition, he adds a lot of pointless drivel and detail that bogs the story down. Skip a lot of the writing and you'll be fine.
May 18, 2023
Loved it! Space pirates, action, adventure, and a touch of beauty. Can't wait to read more.
July 27, 2025
8/10
Rollicking good military space opera, with unique characters, close calls, lots of action.
Rollicking good military space opera, with unique characters, close calls, lots of action.
October 2, 2025
Good novel. Space opera theme, centred around neo-Roman society and 18th century sailing techniques.
Read
October 26, 2025Why you might like it: RCN series: Aubrey/Maturin in space, with logistics. Rubric match: not yet scored. Uses your engineering/rigor/first-contact/world-building rubric. Tags: military-sf, ops
March 2, 2014
From Booklist
Readers who have been entranced by the previous adventures of Daniel Leary and Adele Munday (_With the Lightnings_ , 1998; Lt. Leary, Commanding , 2000) will sigh with relief to see them again. After settling a few family matters on Cinnabar with the high body count usual for Adele, the pair re-embarks aboard Princess Cecile . Their old ship has been sold out of the navy, however, and is now the private yacht of the Klimovs, two mad Russians touring the stars in search of big game, high stakes gambling, and the priceless Earth Diamond--the last known map of old Earth. With Daniel and Adele doing teamwork, the quest is successful, despite the Klimovs' best efforts and a rogue Cinnabar naval squadron. By then the duo has stumbled on an Alliance plan to stage a Pearl Harbor and must trade the diamond for Cecile , which they turn back into a highly successful warship. But really, Mr. Drake, three years is too long to wait for another Leary-Munday. More and sooner, sir! Roland Green
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While the Republic of Cinnabar is at peace with the Alliance, warriors like Lt. Daniel Leary and Signals Officer Adele Mundy must find other work--like escorting a pair of wealthy nobles on an expedition to the back of beyond! The Princess Cecile, the corvette in which they carved their reputations in letters of fire, has been sold as a private yacht, but she still has her guns, her missiles, and her veteran crew. Daniel and Adele will need all of those things as they face winged dragons, an Alliance auxiliary cruiser, jealous lovers, and a mysterious oracle which really does foresee the future. That won't be enough, though, when they penetrate a secret Alliance base and find a hostile fleet ready for a war that will sweep Cinnabar out of a strategically crucial arm of the galaxy. Preventing that will involve skill, courage, and more luck than a sane man could even pray for; and it will require a space battle on a scale that a tiny corvette like the Princess Cecile has no business being involved in. But she'll be in the middle of it anyway, because Daniel, Adele, and their Cinnabar crew would never turn their backs on a fight!
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