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First Contact
Starship Mine
James Patterson is a gay accountant living in Keyes, Oklahoma-deep in the Bible Belt-the religious heartland of America. He's also the first person to make contact with an extraterrestrial intelligence seeking to understand our world, and that makes him the most important person on the planet.
107 pages, Paperback
First published March 12, 2016
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467 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
November 2, 2017
Starship Mine
By: Peter Cawdron
Narrated by: Jeff Cummings
This is a book I thought about for days after I listened to it. I still think about it. I like books like that, books that are so good, I roll it around to savor it again and again. What if 99% of the people you know had the very exact dream you did last night. It was on the news, all across the USA, the world. All the details, the same. It was of a planet. Well, everyone had the dream but you. Then you had the dream while awake, and it did something to you, something special....This was an extraordinary story, with things in there that is awe inspiring and terrifying. Things of hope, sadness, and love. A book that made me ask, what would I do? It was just such a wonderful book, I enjoyed it tremendously. Gave me a warm feeling. I wish I had been there.
The narrator was perfect for this book. He did a small child, a teen girl, and everyone in-between without me thinking that they were really not those people. I was in total suspended disbelieve and it was wonderful to her his voice tell me this wonderful story. He added a lot to it. thanks.
By: Peter Cawdron
Narrated by: Jeff Cummings
This is a book I thought about for days after I listened to it. I still think about it. I like books like that, books that are so good, I roll it around to savor it again and again. What if 99% of the people you know had the very exact dream you did last night. It was on the news, all across the USA, the world. All the details, the same. It was of a planet. Well, everyone had the dream but you. Then you had the dream while awake, and it did something to you, something special....This was an extraordinary story, with things in there that is awe inspiring and terrifying. Things of hope, sadness, and love. A book that made me ask, what would I do? It was just such a wonderful book, I enjoyed it tremendously. Gave me a warm feeling. I wish I had been there.
The narrator was perfect for this book. He did a small child, a teen girl, and everyone in-between without me thinking that they were really not those people. I was in total suspended disbelieve and it was wonderful to her his voice tell me this wonderful story. He added a lot to it. thanks.
October 1, 2022
"All things come to an end, but to have had a beginning, to have had the privilege of being conscious, that is a joy beyond reckoning. We are not merely individuals, adrift. in the unimaginably vast expanse of space. We are the universe. We are the stars in living, breathing form."
This has the same humanitarian (ironically?) beating heart as the other book by Cawdron I've read, Clowns, and I loved the themes and ideas - but it just fell a little flat for me. It's only a novella, so I wasn't expecting it to be as complex and insane as the 400-odd page Clowns, but on the other hand a novella doesn't have to feel like a rushed, unformed thing.
I'm still going to explore Cawdron's other work because I'm fascinated by his ideas and vision, but unfortunately Starship Mine was just a little bit lacklustre, with somewhat boring characters and a damp squib of a denouement.
This has the same humanitarian (ironically?) beating heart as the other book by Cawdron I've read, Clowns, and I loved the themes and ideas - but it just fell a little flat for me. It's only a novella, so I wasn't expecting it to be as complex and insane as the 400-odd page Clowns, but on the other hand a novella doesn't have to feel like a rushed, unformed thing.
I'm still going to explore Cawdron's other work because I'm fascinated by his ideas and vision, but unfortunately Starship Mine was just a little bit lacklustre, with somewhat boring characters and a damp squib of a denouement.
October 4, 2016
I need more stars. Five is not enough for this powerhouse of a story. There is a ton of raw emotion packed into this novella, and the characters are beyond wonderful. Starship Mine really hit a chord with me, and I think it might be Cawdron's best work to date. I don't want to spoil anything, so I will say, generally, this story is all about love and equality. Humanity has a long way to go still, but we are at least moving in the right direction. I wholeheartedly recommend this story to everyone. Even if you are not a fan of science fiction, you can't help but be moved by this one. It's not too often that a short story can have the depth to pull me in, but this one did completely. Seriously, I finished this story and was ready to give the author a standing ovation. Perfectly executed and masterfully written. Way to go, Mr. Cawdron. I'm beyond impressed with the amount of love and hope this story left me with, and I can't wait to share it with my friends and family.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The story was so good I bought it as soon as I finished reading it.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The story was so good I bought it as soon as I finished reading it.
November 19, 2019
4 starship stars!!
I’m loving the different philosophies and societal aspects the author inserts in every book. Kinda fitting since philosophers of old were often also astronomers, among other things.
This is a rather short read but for some reason, i feel that it’s touched on so many points and most importantly, it touched something in my heart. I appreciate this author way more than I know what to do with, for his imagination and the worlds he builds. But more than that, for the social issues he addresses.
It’s clear as day where he stands and I’d be honoured to meet a person with such beautiful philosophies of life. For now, I’ll support his books which aren’t a hardship since they are awesome!
I’m loving the different philosophies and societal aspects the author inserts in every book. Kinda fitting since philosophers of old were often also astronomers, among other things.
This is a rather short read but for some reason, i feel that it’s touched on so many points and most importantly, it touched something in my heart. I appreciate this author way more than I know what to do with, for his imagination and the worlds he builds. But more than that, for the social issues he addresses.
It’s clear as day where he stands and I’d be honoured to meet a person with such beautiful philosophies of life. For now, I’ll support his books which aren’t a hardship since they are awesome!
April 19, 2022
First contact with aliens. Everyone on earth has the same dream about a big, blue planet. A regular guy gets beamed up to a spaceship and his life is changed forever. I would pick up this author again. It was short but interesting.
August 17, 2020
There are many five star reviews for this book, mostly by Science Fiction fans who’ve read other books by this author. I’m not a great fan of the genre, and haven’t read any of Peter Cawdron’s books before, so that could be why my rating isn’t as high. The writing's good, and the story is thought provoking, but I didn’t quite take to it. Maybe if it had been longer, my rating would’ve been higher, and my enjoyment greater. It ended at The Beginning! 2.5 stars
September 3, 2020
Blue balls in book form.
Loved the first half with only a few minor quibbles but the second half really dropped the ball for me.
Had it ended without the epilogue I'd have been really miffed.
The casual queerness was lovely to see and the mention of everyday micro-aggressions was good though the MC doesn't notice he does one in turn.
The sci fi concepts were interesting but underutilised. The good stuff was over before it really began. The shift in tone from imaginative and hopeful to tragic and melancholy was 'realistic' and gritty, I guess, but entirely unsatisfying.
There is a disabled character who is quite self depreciative and uses the word "crippled", which I know is contentious for a lot of disabled people. I don't know how well the representation was done but it did leave me somewhat uncomfortable, though I don't know if that is my on pre conceived notions, potential stereotypes or if it was written well but in a gritty way.
Maybe I expected too much from a novella but I wanted more of the sci fi and the ending just left me wanting more without actually being that satisfying.
Loved the first half with only a few minor quibbles but the second half really dropped the ball for me.
Had it ended without the epilogue I'd have been really miffed.
The casual queerness was lovely to see and the mention of everyday micro-aggressions was good though the MC doesn't notice he does one in turn.
The sci fi concepts were interesting but underutilised. The good stuff was over before it really began. The shift in tone from imaginative and hopeful to tragic and melancholy was 'realistic' and gritty, I guess, but entirely unsatisfying.
There is a disabled character who is quite self depreciative and uses the word "crippled", which I know is contentious for a lot of disabled people. I don't know how well the representation was done but it did leave me somewhat uncomfortable, though I don't know if that is my on pre conceived notions, potential stereotypes or if it was written well but in a gritty way.
Maybe I expected too much from a novella but I wanted more of the sci fi and the ending just left me wanting more without actually being that satisfying.
November 7, 2018
Overall I enjoyed the story. It kept my interest throughout. I liked the ending that for its satisfaction for the story and still wanting more.
The writing style was very good but had the feel of a new writer that will get better with more books. The writing did not distract from getting into the story.
I liked the flow of the story with the excel of a key element (no spoiler) happened too quickly considering its importance on the book.
I gave it 3 stars but know that with more experience the author will only grow better and better. Looking forward to the future works from this author.
The writing style was very good but had the feel of a new writer that will get better with more books. The writing did not distract from getting into the story.
I liked the flow of the story with the excel of a key element (no spoiler) happened too quickly considering its importance on the book.
I gave it 3 stars but know that with more experience the author will only grow better and better. Looking forward to the future works from this author.
July 19, 2021
Imaginative; wish it was longer.
August 18, 2019
Exceptional.
The author, Peter Cawdron, never ceases to amaze me with his stories, but this one is exceptional.
Not only because of the storyline, or the characters, but because of the deeper messages within it.
About us as a species.
See my review also at:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...
The author, Peter Cawdron, never ceases to amaze me with his stories, but this one is exceptional.
Not only because of the storyline, or the characters, but because of the deeper messages within it.
About us as a species.
See my review also at:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...
May 4, 2021
This story is not super hard sci-fi as you would expect from Cawdron. But rather intimate, warm, and human.
March 16, 2016
Peter Cawdron has always written wonderfully character driven stories, but Starship Mine is a whole new experience.
It is said often that Cawdron’s work is one of those that you just buy because you know it's going to be good, regardless of what he has written, but on this occasion, Starship Mine should be purchased because it is possibly one of Cawdron’s best pieces of writing ever,
This is an exceptional short story, a brilliant piece of science fiction writing, interweaved with a fascinating look at human culture and its social constructs, including some mystery, and a bit of emotion to pull at the heartstrings.
The story starts with everyone having had a ‘Dream’, and everyone’s dream, about a blue planet, appears to be the same.
However, for our main character, Jay, a gay accountant in the bible belt of Keyes Oklahoma, his story is different to everyone else. He is about to become one of the most important people on Earth, and it is here were Cawdron’s story becomes truly stunning.
The story from here, including the interplay between Jay and his partner Casey and their two foster kids, Angela and Robbie is exceptional in its understanding of human emotion, and how it covers some of today’s most complex and difficult social issues, such as homophobia, women’s rights and ethnic diversity. Cawdron manages to weave these concepts into the story so easily, that you don’t have to read pages of commentary, just simple statements that elicit powerful emotions and thoughts on the current state of our society and what others might think of it. All of this is wrapped up in a fascinating science fiction story that leaves you turning page after page, wondering what is coming next, until you reach a stunning and clever ending.
This is an incredibly emotive and powerful story that will leave you thinking about its content for days to come, but in the end, it will leave you with a smile on your face.
Cawdron is fast becoming a true master of writing clever and captivating ‘character’ stories that will alter the way we look at things.
This is an amazing piece of writing, with exceptional characters, an incredible plotline, and a superb ending.
This is Peter Cawdron's best work yet.
It is said often that Cawdron’s work is one of those that you just buy because you know it's going to be good, regardless of what he has written, but on this occasion, Starship Mine should be purchased because it is possibly one of Cawdron’s best pieces of writing ever,
This is an exceptional short story, a brilliant piece of science fiction writing, interweaved with a fascinating look at human culture and its social constructs, including some mystery, and a bit of emotion to pull at the heartstrings.
The story starts with everyone having had a ‘Dream’, and everyone’s dream, about a blue planet, appears to be the same.
However, for our main character, Jay, a gay accountant in the bible belt of Keyes Oklahoma, his story is different to everyone else. He is about to become one of the most important people on Earth, and it is here were Cawdron’s story becomes truly stunning.
The story from here, including the interplay between Jay and his partner Casey and their two foster kids, Angela and Robbie is exceptional in its understanding of human emotion, and how it covers some of today’s most complex and difficult social issues, such as homophobia, women’s rights and ethnic diversity. Cawdron manages to weave these concepts into the story so easily, that you don’t have to read pages of commentary, just simple statements that elicit powerful emotions and thoughts on the current state of our society and what others might think of it. All of this is wrapped up in a fascinating science fiction story that leaves you turning page after page, wondering what is coming next, until you reach a stunning and clever ending.
This is an incredibly emotive and powerful story that will leave you thinking about its content for days to come, but in the end, it will leave you with a smile on your face.
Cawdron is fast becoming a true master of writing clever and captivating ‘character’ stories that will alter the way we look at things.
This is an amazing piece of writing, with exceptional characters, an incredible plotline, and a superb ending.
This is Peter Cawdron's best work yet.
July 3, 2016
Another superb story
A great, though provoking story by Peter Cawdron. His mini lecture at the end of the story needs to be read by every one.
A great, though provoking story by Peter Cawdron. His mini lecture at the end of the story needs to be read by every one.
June 5, 2017
Just, go read this. It's short, and weird (I expect this from Mr. Cawdon) and then... Ah.
Then.
Go on. Trust me, read this one.
Then.
Go on. Trust me, read this one.
May 27, 2017
Starship Mine by Peter Cawdron, 115 pages, March 12th, 2016, Genre: Science Fiction/First Contact. Warning: May Contain Spoilers.
Starship Mine is the story of a human being making first contact with an alien civilization. It’s also the story of a gay couple living in the Bible Belt, raising two foster kids. Casey and James love each other, even though they’re temperamentally quite different. Their kids, Angela and Robbie, are also well-loved and return that love. In fact, one of their greatest fears is that someone will come along and take their children away from them.
One Friday evening, most of the inhabitants of Earth share the same dream. It’s a dream about a blue gaseous planet surrounded by rings, much like the rings of Saturn. At first, James is baffled by what people are talking about. He doesn’t believe it to be true. Instead, he tries to find a rational explanation for the phenomenon. While at the church awaiting the kids to finish rehearsing for a performance, James has the dream while awake. To the others, it appears he has a seizure. In his own perception, he has floated in a distant galaxy, viewing a blue planet with rings. After he recovers, James is checked out by a paramedic and released to go home, so long as he doesn’t drive. The Reverend agrees to drive them home. Once home, James and Casey watch the news, trying to learn more about these strange events. James’ consciousness is transported far away to the distant galaxy of the strange aliens and their blue planet. James is given the chance to remain with the aliens or to remain with his family. James makes the only choice he believes will lead to his fulfillment.
If you ask, “Would you like to have the opportunity to meet an alien if such a civilization existed?”, most people excitedly respond they would. It’s the adventure of a lifetime, meeting an alien, seeing a new planet! And yet, here on this lovely green and blue planet Earth, many people are shackled to certain perceptions of ‘normal’ that too often cause us to disrespect those who are different from us. If we can’t become comfortable and accepting of those who are different from us, how can we hope to ever peacefully interact with an alien civilization?
I enjoyed reading Starship Mine. This book can be read in roughly an hour, making it an ideal lunchtime companion. While I won’t give away the ending, I wish that the book had been longer and the story had continued further along. It presented the adventure of first contact through a unique lens. This won’t appeal to science fiction fans who are looking for a fully immersive alien experience, such as “Dune”. I’d recommend this to science-fiction fans who enjoy stories that allow the reader to see humanity in a new way.
Starship Mine is the story of a human being making first contact with an alien civilization. It’s also the story of a gay couple living in the Bible Belt, raising two foster kids. Casey and James love each other, even though they’re temperamentally quite different. Their kids, Angela and Robbie, are also well-loved and return that love. In fact, one of their greatest fears is that someone will come along and take their children away from them.
One Friday evening, most of the inhabitants of Earth share the same dream. It’s a dream about a blue gaseous planet surrounded by rings, much like the rings of Saturn. At first, James is baffled by what people are talking about. He doesn’t believe it to be true. Instead, he tries to find a rational explanation for the phenomenon. While at the church awaiting the kids to finish rehearsing for a performance, James has the dream while awake. To the others, it appears he has a seizure. In his own perception, he has floated in a distant galaxy, viewing a blue planet with rings. After he recovers, James is checked out by a paramedic and released to go home, so long as he doesn’t drive. The Reverend agrees to drive them home. Once home, James and Casey watch the news, trying to learn more about these strange events. James’ consciousness is transported far away to the distant galaxy of the strange aliens and their blue planet. James is given the chance to remain with the aliens or to remain with his family. James makes the only choice he believes will lead to his fulfillment.
If you ask, “Would you like to have the opportunity to meet an alien if such a civilization existed?”, most people excitedly respond they would. It’s the adventure of a lifetime, meeting an alien, seeing a new planet! And yet, here on this lovely green and blue planet Earth, many people are shackled to certain perceptions of ‘normal’ that too often cause us to disrespect those who are different from us. If we can’t become comfortable and accepting of those who are different from us, how can we hope to ever peacefully interact with an alien civilization?
I enjoyed reading Starship Mine. This book can be read in roughly an hour, making it an ideal lunchtime companion. While I won’t give away the ending, I wish that the book had been longer and the story had continued further along. It presented the adventure of first contact through a unique lens. This won’t appeal to science fiction fans who are looking for a fully immersive alien experience, such as “Dune”. I’d recommend this to science-fiction fans who enjoy stories that allow the reader to see humanity in a new way.
March 3, 2021
Disturbing. That is my first thought about this book.
This is the Eleventh Peter Cawdron book that I’ve read and I am currently working my way through Cawdron’s First Contact series. These books are all stand-alones with each looking at the topic of humanity’s first contact with an alien species with completely different scenarios and perspectives. With each book I am more and more impressed with his imagination, characters, writing, plot lines, and scientific knowledge that comes through on every page. But this is the first book that there is pain and suffering as a significant part of the plot line.
I usually write my reviews as soon as I complete the book but with this one I’ve taken a day to mull it over. The writing was good, as always. I always love Cawdron’s characters. In this book it was refreshing to have a gay couple and foster kids as part of the storyline as well as a struggling but empathetic minister. I always love hard science and Cawdron’s weaving in entangled particles gets a checkmark.
Still, I am unsettled by this book. I feel that the aliens were just too unreality based. I know, they are imaginary creatures and we have not, as of yet, actually met any aliens. Still, I felt that the aliens in this book were too contradictory. They are advanced and empathic but do not realize that their way of dealing with humans would cause upset. They know our languages but not our homophobia. Sorry but I think in some ways Cawdron dropped the ball on this one.
That said, there were major parts of this book that I enjoyed. Some interesting issues are raised and, of course, how society dismisses facts by coming up with crazy theories is always a good topic. Overall I am glad I read it but it is probably my least favorite Cawdron First Contact book so far. If you have read any of my other reviews you know that I, overall, I love Cawdron’s writing and that I am enjoying this series. I’m off to read the next in line.
This is the Eleventh Peter Cawdron book that I’ve read and I am currently working my way through Cawdron’s First Contact series. These books are all stand-alones with each looking at the topic of humanity’s first contact with an alien species with completely different scenarios and perspectives. With each book I am more and more impressed with his imagination, characters, writing, plot lines, and scientific knowledge that comes through on every page. But this is the first book that there is pain and suffering as a significant part of the plot line.
I usually write my reviews as soon as I complete the book but with this one I’ve taken a day to mull it over. The writing was good, as always. I always love Cawdron’s characters. In this book it was refreshing to have a gay couple and foster kids as part of the storyline as well as a struggling but empathetic minister. I always love hard science and Cawdron’s weaving in entangled particles gets a checkmark.
Still, I am unsettled by this book. I feel that the aliens were just too unreality based. I know, they are imaginary creatures and we have not, as of yet, actually met any aliens. Still, I felt that the aliens in this book were too contradictory. They are advanced and empathic but do not realize that their way of dealing with humans would cause upset. They know our languages but not our homophobia. Sorry but I think in some ways Cawdron dropped the ball on this one.
That said, there were major parts of this book that I enjoyed. Some interesting issues are raised and, of course, how society dismisses facts by coming up with crazy theories is always a good topic. Overall I am glad I read it but it is probably my least favorite Cawdron First Contact book so far. If you have read any of my other reviews you know that I, overall, I love Cawdron’s writing and that I am enjoying this series. I’m off to read the next in line.
February 19, 2025
This is a 109 page novella that packs the power of an entire galaxy. James is a gay accountant living in Keyes, Oklahoma with his partner and their children. He is a happy man with a life and family he treasures. One night, the whole world (or a large majority of the world) shares the same dream of a large blue planet. Everyone except James. Then while waiting for his children to finish their play rehearsal at church, he falls into a coma. He wakes, along with a very young boy and a pre-teen girl from Pakistan, in a ship? on a planet? but clearly somewhere not on Earth and surrounded by the vastness of the universe. Finally, a being that assumed the appearance of a human woman appears and begins a gentle interrogation about humanity. Always self-deprecating, James feels completely inadequate to explain humanity and its inexplicable dichotomies, prejudices and propensity to discriminate with violence. He is reassured, however, that all life is special. That all life represents the stuff of stars that has become "alive" and that all life is connected and precious. James returns to Earth during this interrogation to find he has incurred a brain injury and faces crippling injuries, interfering with his movement, his speech and his ability to care for himself. Then he is presented with an opportunity to return to the alien world, and to be whole and healthy. Will he leave Earth and his family, where he sees himself a burden; will he return to wholeness and the exploration of wonder in the universe? 109 pages holds a universe of inquiry, the nature of life and the current and possible future state of humanity, and the meaning of love. Cawdron is a genius of science fiction.
January 30, 2020
Not the Best and Not the Worst
His worst book, that I've read so far, has been Anomaly, while the best was 3zekiel. This leans more towards Anomaly in terms of story, but the writing was well done. More like 3zekiel. I don't want to be preached at. Most people don't care if you're gay. Good for you. And people have misconceptions about everyone. Everyone places everyone else in a stereotypical box. It's a logical self defense mechanism we've evolved to have in order to survive. In essence, the main character is an asshole. He's not being persecuted but he acts like it. He's not endearing. And having too much variety of people and demographics can 100% be disastrous. It's just not how we're built. The preaching from the author to the reader at the end was just not true. People like to be around similar people. If everyone was different like you think you'd like then there would be no common ground. And minorities are prone to being in cliches too. They prefer to be with their own people. After all that the story didn't make any sense. There was no payoff. Someone thinks they saw aliens and that's it. Nothing came from it. Oh! And it's a very short story. I'd picked up the Kindle Edition through Kindle Unlimited. I'm not sure if they mention it's a Novella. So the only surprise was the quick ending. Short book.
His worst book, that I've read so far, has been Anomaly, while the best was 3zekiel. This leans more towards Anomaly in terms of story, but the writing was well done. More like 3zekiel. I don't want to be preached at. Most people don't care if you're gay. Good for you. And people have misconceptions about everyone. Everyone places everyone else in a stereotypical box. It's a logical self defense mechanism we've evolved to have in order to survive. In essence, the main character is an asshole. He's not being persecuted but he acts like it. He's not endearing. And having too much variety of people and demographics can 100% be disastrous. It's just not how we're built. The preaching from the author to the reader at the end was just not true. People like to be around similar people. If everyone was different like you think you'd like then there would be no common ground. And minorities are prone to being in cliches too. They prefer to be with their own people. After all that the story didn't make any sense. There was no payoff. Someone thinks they saw aliens and that's it. Nothing came from it. Oh! And it's a very short story. I'd picked up the Kindle Edition through Kindle Unlimited. I'm not sure if they mention it's a Novella. So the only surprise was the quick ending. Short book.
November 21, 2021
A softer take on first contact with aliens.
I've been eyeing Cawdron's books for a while now, but could never decide on what to pick up because he's so prolific. This one caught my eye on Scribd while I was searching for something quick to listen to, and I'm glad I picked it.
The story is rather short and as such, I didn't really for any deep attachments to the characters (I rarely do with short fiction) but the characters all felt very real nonetheless.
The author comments on his decision of choosing to write a main character who's gay instead of straight in the afterword, and I appreciate his intent. The only nit-picky thing for me was the main character's own insistence on referring to himself as, for instance, a gay accountant, as opposed to just an accountant.
There was also commentary on micro-aggressions on minorities as well as on societal power hierarchies based on skin color and gender. I have to admit I'm usually a little put off if an author chooses to educate their readers on social justice matters in a story that otherwise has no bearing on said topics, but I liked how Cawdron handeled it here.
The story would have benefitted from having a little more meat on it's bones, but for the amount of words that were used here, I really enjoyed it. I'll definitely pick up more books from this author in the future.
I've been eyeing Cawdron's books for a while now, but could never decide on what to pick up because he's so prolific. This one caught my eye on Scribd while I was searching for something quick to listen to, and I'm glad I picked it.
The story is rather short and as such, I didn't really for any deep attachments to the characters (I rarely do with short fiction) but the characters all felt very real nonetheless.
The author comments on his decision of choosing to write a main character who's gay instead of straight in the afterword, and I appreciate his intent. The only nit-picky thing for me was the main character's own insistence on referring to himself as, for instance, a gay accountant, as opposed to just an accountant.
There was also commentary on micro-aggressions on minorities as well as on societal power hierarchies based on skin color and gender. I have to admit I'm usually a little put off if an author chooses to educate their readers on social justice matters in a story that otherwise has no bearing on said topics, but I liked how Cawdron handeled it here.
The story would have benefitted from having a little more meat on it's bones, but for the amount of words that were used here, I really enjoyed it. I'll definitely pick up more books from this author in the future.
October 21, 2017
Une histoire de 1er contact mixé de sciences et de "morale" Le côté un peu poncif m'a légèrement agacé même si je partage ici les points du vue de l'auteur (dont j'apprécie les thèmes défendus comme la tolérance et l'écriture toujours aussi agréable)
Je suis plutôt fan de nouvelles et de novellas mais là, j'aurais aimé un peu plus de fond et de développements .
OK je ne suis pas tout à fait objectif : j'adore les histoires de 1ere rencontre avec des aliens qui ne sont pas forcément des tueurs en série ! Certains me viennent spontanément à l'esprit : la série Elévation de D. BRIN, Fresco de S. TEPPER ou encore la série Wess'har de K Travis sans oublier *Roaring Hot Vermillon* in Rocheworld de RK. FORWARD etc etc Donc M. Cawdron aurait peut-être mérité une meilleure notation mais chez moi, 3 étoiles c'est déjà plus qu'honorable
J'attends avec impatience de lire vos avis, ami(e)s GReaders, sur cet auteur
Je suis plutôt fan de nouvelles et de novellas mais là, j'aurais aimé un peu plus de fond et de développements .
OK je ne suis pas tout à fait objectif : j'adore les histoires de 1ere rencontre avec des aliens qui ne sont pas forcément des tueurs en série ! Certains me viennent spontanément à l'esprit : la série Elévation de D. BRIN, Fresco de S. TEPPER ou encore la série Wess'har de K Travis sans oublier *Roaring Hot Vermillon* in Rocheworld de RK. FORWARD etc etc Donc M. Cawdron aurait peut-être mérité une meilleure notation mais chez moi, 3 étoiles c'est déjà plus qu'honorable
J'attends avec impatience de lire vos avis, ami(e)s GReaders, sur cet auteur
July 17, 2018
This book provides an interesting twist on first contact and uses it to convey a message about the need to accept our differences, a message with which I certainly agree. However, the author expresses the message in a heavy-handed way that relies too heavily on telling rather than showing and that uses such clichés of science fiction as Socratic irony through discussions with aliens and the outcast who turns out to be the most important person, as well as SJW buzzwords that get in the way of taking the message seriously. I won't give away the ending, but I will say that it was a punch line of jokes about bad writing as far back as the seventies. Also, if the author knows about Christian traditions or about life in countries other than his own at a level deeper than pop-cultural osmosis, he does not effectively use such knowledge in this story.
August 22, 2019
Hmm, this was interesting, though turned out to be very different than I was expecting and I can’t really decide if I actually liked it.
I understand the ideas they wanted to convey but I felt a little betrayed with the twist and I’m not sure it really holds water This was just a bit too heartbreaking for me.
A story should be complete, and an epilogue should add. This story ended incomplete and sad and frustrating. Luckily, the epilogue saved all that. It gave us a more well rounded story with a hopeful end. Though to be honest, that’s when it was getting the most interesting and what I had been hoping to read
I understand the ideas they wanted to convey but I felt a little betrayed with the twist and I’m not sure it really holds water This was just a bit too heartbreaking for me.
A story should be complete, and an epilogue should add. This story ended incomplete and sad and frustrating. Luckily, the epilogue saved all that. It gave us a more well rounded story with a hopeful end. Though to be honest, that’s when it was getting the most interesting and what I had been hoping to read
June 27, 2020
Great story and great narration.
I love stories that make you think and this does that.
The MC is part of a gay couple and they are fostering a brother and sister. The gay part is not very important and I think the author put it in for the straight reader to understand how normal gay people are.
The real story is the "dream" that vast segments of earth has the same night as they sleep. Only a few people are receptive enough to allow the dream to take them off planet. Yes it is one of those utopian alien species that initiate contact. But the universal truths the author expresses are the captivating part. Although the book is complete including a long epilogue, I wanted it to be longer with more contact....especially at the end.
This author has a lot of science fiction and I think I will try out a lot more of his work.
I love stories that make you think and this does that.
The MC is part of a gay couple and they are fostering a brother and sister. The gay part is not very important and I think the author put it in for the straight reader to understand how normal gay people are.
The real story is the "dream" that vast segments of earth has the same night as they sleep. Only a few people are receptive enough to allow the dream to take them off planet. Yes it is one of those utopian alien species that initiate contact. But the universal truths the author expresses are the captivating part. Although the book is complete including a long epilogue, I wanted it to be longer with more contact....especially at the end.
This author has a lot of science fiction and I think I will try out a lot more of his work.
September 17, 2021
Millions of people, while sleeping, all over the world experience The Dream of a large, blue gas giant and it goes viral across social media platforms. A family man has a waking dream of the same planet. Only it's not a dream.
Peter Cawdron's Starship Mine is a wonderful 'feel good' story although there are times of misery, sadness, adventure and thrills.
As I have read nearly all the First Contact series (only one to go), I felt one of the more important aspects of this story gave a closer look at how important family is when faced with both horrible circumstances or the possibility of leaving your family behind to live a life free of physical pain.
Again, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, I loved this Cawdron story. It is well written, thoughtful, thrilling, frightening, and finally heartwarming.
Peter Cawdron's Starship Mine is a wonderful 'feel good' story although there are times of misery, sadness, adventure and thrills.
As I have read nearly all the First Contact series (only one to go), I felt one of the more important aspects of this story gave a closer look at how important family is when faced with both horrible circumstances or the possibility of leaving your family behind to live a life free of physical pain.
Again, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, I loved this Cawdron story. It is well written, thoughtful, thrilling, frightening, and finally heartwarming.
June 25, 2021
Of the books I've read in the series so far, this describes a first contact scenario that is the most easily acceptable (not quite the right word, but I don't know a better on without spoilers). With one unfortunate situation (though not tragic in the long run), the story describes a situation that you might be interested in participating in.. It's a useful and thoughtful addition to the series.
The think I find I'm continually impressed with (said this in other reviews) is the authors ability to come up with as many diverse ways of describing and imagining how we might encounter another civilization. Not just the nature of the alien civilization, but our ability to respond.
The whole series from what I've seen so far is worth reading.
The think I find I'm continually impressed with (said this in other reviews) is the authors ability to come up with as many diverse ways of describing and imagining how we might encounter another civilization. Not just the nature of the alien civilization, but our ability to respond.
The whole series from what I've seen so far is worth reading.
April 18, 2021
Beautiful, but too short.
I explain my position the only way I know how, saying, “Starship... mine.” Misha nods. She understands. This frail body is the starship with which I will traverse the cosmos. Be it forty years or seventy, a hundred years, or even a thousand. I may be stuck on this rock, swinging around a solitary star for the rest of my days, but the universe is mine. The stars will never appear the same again. Humanity has a long way to go before it’s physically, mentally, and morally capable of reaching beyond the solar system. We need change. I won’t run from that challenge. I’m determined to be part of it in my own small way.
I explain my position the only way I know how, saying, “Starship... mine.” Misha nods. She understands. This frail body is the starship with which I will traverse the cosmos. Be it forty years or seventy, a hundred years, or even a thousand. I may be stuck on this rock, swinging around a solitary star for the rest of my days, but the universe is mine. The stars will never appear the same again. Humanity has a long way to go before it’s physically, mentally, and morally capable of reaching beyond the solar system. We need change. I won’t run from that challenge. I’m determined to be part of it in my own small way.
July 7, 2020
Fun and educational!
The premise of an international event such as the one experienced by some people in specific areas of the world is a cool concept brought about as the catalyst from which the main plot stem off. The main character just happens to be one of a few, out of billions of people, to be very especial, what are the odds? The scientific principal, used in this story, was also used on another novel titled "New Eden" by Kishore Tiperneni, so this book is kind of hard science fiction.
The premise of an international event such as the one experienced by some people in specific areas of the world is a cool concept brought about as the catalyst from which the main plot stem off. The main character just happens to be one of a few, out of billions of people, to be very especial, what are the odds? The scientific principal, used in this story, was also used on another novel titled "New Eden" by Kishore Tiperneni, so this book is kind of hard science fiction.
July 9, 2020
Another unique contact scenario
A different way to meet aliens for sure. This first contact story involving a young boy, an adult and a teenage girl was completely unexpected. This was the oddest collection of ambassadors ever.
The method of identifying themselves as stellar neighbors was fantastic. Hard choices have to be made and there's sadness but it's a hopeful story. That sums up the course of most of his contact stories. Again, it features good characters, real struggles and understandable relationships.
A different way to meet aliens for sure. This first contact story involving a young boy, an adult and a teenage girl was completely unexpected. This was the oddest collection of ambassadors ever.
The method of identifying themselves as stellar neighbors was fantastic. Hard choices have to be made and there's sadness but it's a hopeful story. That sums up the course of most of his contact stories. Again, it features good characters, real struggles and understandable relationships.
October 22, 2020
The mode of first contact and the beauty of the alien interaction was well conceived and nicely presented. I would like more of the Althienians. The book offers much of what I like: to have a new and thought provoking experiences. Yes, the SF is good. What is irksome is that today's authors are seemingly compelled to include (by their publishers?) a story-line that preaches social agendas. Can't we at least have some solace from the virtue signaling while enjoying a good hard SF novel? Please!
December 9, 2021
Not my cup of tea but read for yourself!
I can't in good conciousness give a bad rating because it's written well but the subject matter incorporates modern political agendas into it which I'm not opposed to or in agreement with but I really don't enjoy it bleeding over this much. I love the fact that it's a queer couple in the main role but it goes so much into the drama of it and not as much into the sci Fi aspect of it. I don't regret reading it. But if I had the choice to read it again I'd prolly pass.
I can't in good conciousness give a bad rating because it's written well but the subject matter incorporates modern political agendas into it which I'm not opposed to or in agreement with but I really don't enjoy it bleeding over this much. I love the fact that it's a queer couple in the main role but it goes so much into the drama of it and not as much into the sci Fi aspect of it. I don't regret reading it. But if I had the choice to read it again I'd prolly pass.
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