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Rapier
Kathy Masters never expected to journey to the stars until she was selected by the prestigious Galactic Geographic Society to photograph and get videos of the flora and fauna of a newly discovered class M planet before colonization begins. Filled with hope and enthusiasm, she boards the SS America for the trip to Beta 3 Epsilon to begin her new project. On the way, she is abducted and brought aboard the privateer Rapier, beginning her nine-year sojourn among the colonies of mankind. Going from captive to slave to induction into the infamous brotherhood, Kathy finds herself being called on to raise the adopted daughter of the crew of the Rapier. Given the responsibility to raise their princess, Cindy, with the help of Lien Lan Yi, daughter of the house of Yi and princess of the imperial court, they travel among the stars, preying on merchant ships, dodging Chinese warships, fighting pirates, visiting strange worlds, and encountering fantastic creatures all under the watchful eyes of Commodore James Ulysses Black. Trying to raise a young girl among gunfights, sword fights, ship-to-ship battles, slave trades, deals, and some of the most-feared raiders in human space is no small challenge. The only question is, is Kathy up to the task?
- GenresScience Fiction
270 pages, Paperback
Published August 26, 2019
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 16, 2020
Swashbuckling
Rapier is a brilliantly blended recipe of old fashioned pirates, sci-fi space adventure, revenge and tender romance. It is a story of honour and duty, a novel packed with battles and brutal violence, and a tale of devotion and love.
Kathy Masters is without money having nearly everything she owned confiscated by the authorities. So she visits an old editor friend who will pay substantially for her incredible story. A story among the stars with Captain James Ulysses Black of the spaceship Rapier and armed with all the photographs and videos to validate her tales and provide glimpses into alien beings that very few have ever seen or believed. The structure of the book is Kathy’s story being told of her journey into space, returning periodically in the narrative to briefly mention things to her interviewer but mainly to remind the reader that something has happened that she is no longer with the crew of the Rapier. The unknown fate of the pirates adds to our sense of crushed anticipation with each chapter.
Kathy reflects back to when it all started. She was a photographer heading into space for the first time to photograph new planets, new life forms and new discoveries. Her ship is attacked and she is taken hostage along with a child Cindy, who has just lost her parents and who Kathy effectively adopts. Rather than sell the 2 females, the Captain argues to keep them as crew and treat like family. These are two wonderful female characters that develop a loving protective relationship as they learn the ways of Privateers – basically pirates with a conscience. The connection between Kathy and the Captain is palpable and elusive.
The story is wonderfully depicted by R. A. Correa in such vivid language that the reader is drawn into the plot, surrounded by a crew that feels like family with characters that are uniquely painted, and the underlining precarious threat to life as they battle throughout the galaxy. The losers don’t typically survive in this world.
The galaxy is controlled by previous nations from Earth, like the Chinese region, the American region, the South African region etc. and they don’t suffer peace easily. Captain Black lost his wife and child to an attack from the Chinese on his home region of Safe Port, wiping out 99% of the population. The mayor of Safe Port now has Black sworn to avenge the city under the Letter of Marque and Reprisal.
I started the book thinking I’m not buying a Captain that runs around with the stereotypical swashbuckling costume, a sword and language that goes back to the Spanish Main. The strange thing though is that before too long that feeling disappears and the story is totally engrossing with a deep connection to the characters and the space adventure in raiding merchant ships (primarily from the Chinese region - payback). There are moments that I felt convenience slipped in to assist the plot, and the supporting characters and crew always behaved impeccably for their Captain.
I would highly recommend reading this book and would rate it 4.5 stars. I wish to thank R.A. Correa for a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
Rapier is a brilliantly blended recipe of old fashioned pirates, sci-fi space adventure, revenge and tender romance. It is a story of honour and duty, a novel packed with battles and brutal violence, and a tale of devotion and love.
Kathy Masters is without money having nearly everything she owned confiscated by the authorities. So she visits an old editor friend who will pay substantially for her incredible story. A story among the stars with Captain James Ulysses Black of the spaceship Rapier and armed with all the photographs and videos to validate her tales and provide glimpses into alien beings that very few have ever seen or believed. The structure of the book is Kathy’s story being told of her journey into space, returning periodically in the narrative to briefly mention things to her interviewer but mainly to remind the reader that something has happened that she is no longer with the crew of the Rapier. The unknown fate of the pirates adds to our sense of crushed anticipation with each chapter.
Kathy reflects back to when it all started. She was a photographer heading into space for the first time to photograph new planets, new life forms and new discoveries. Her ship is attacked and she is taken hostage along with a child Cindy, who has just lost her parents and who Kathy effectively adopts. Rather than sell the 2 females, the Captain argues to keep them as crew and treat like family. These are two wonderful female characters that develop a loving protective relationship as they learn the ways of Privateers – basically pirates with a conscience. The connection between Kathy and the Captain is palpable and elusive.
The story is wonderfully depicted by R. A. Correa in such vivid language that the reader is drawn into the plot, surrounded by a crew that feels like family with characters that are uniquely painted, and the underlining precarious threat to life as they battle throughout the galaxy. The losers don’t typically survive in this world.
The galaxy is controlled by previous nations from Earth, like the Chinese region, the American region, the South African region etc. and they don’t suffer peace easily. Captain Black lost his wife and child to an attack from the Chinese on his home region of Safe Port, wiping out 99% of the population. The mayor of Safe Port now has Black sworn to avenge the city under the Letter of Marque and Reprisal.
“It’s a letter issued by a government to private citizens, authorizing them to conduct raids on enemy commerce.” “What government authorized that?” he asks. “The government of Delta 5 Gamma, more commonly known as Safe Port.”
I started the book thinking I’m not buying a Captain that runs around with the stereotypical swashbuckling costume, a sword and language that goes back to the Spanish Main. The strange thing though is that before too long that feeling disappears and the story is totally engrossing with a deep connection to the characters and the space adventure in raiding merchant ships (primarily from the Chinese region - payback). There are moments that I felt convenience slipped in to assist the plot, and the supporting characters and crew always behaved impeccably for their Captain.
I would highly recommend reading this book and would rate it 4.5 stars. I wish to thank R.A. Correa for a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
August 28, 2018
R.A. Correa brings the swashbuckling life of a pirate to life, but instead of sailing the seas, the RAPIER sails among the stars, the planets and the galaxies and its crew share honor and loyalty to each other
Kathy Masters was about to embark on a journey of a lifetime, photographing the flora and fauna of a newly discovered planet. She had no idea she would begin a nine year adventure beginning as the prisoner of space pirates and swiftly becoming one among their family. She is called on to raise a young orphan who would become another prized “princess” with a crew full of protective fathers, but none as watchful as Captain James Ulysses Black.
Had Kathy finally found a place to belong, a home in the stars? Was she ready to live a life of danger among the fiercest of thieves, plunderers and murderers?
This is more than a space adventure, it is a story of bonding with others, proof that home definitely IS where the heart is and even the coldest of hearts can be melted. Could the universe have gotten the truth of the pirate leader and his crew wrong?
Told mostly through Kathy’s memories long after she had left the stars, it is a space romance filled with battles, unspoken words, atonements and a longing to relive the life she had.
Fabulous descriptions paint each scene in vivid detail as R.A. Correa creates a unique story that crosses genres like a comet crosses the skies! Get lost in a tale that straddles time with a feeling of long ago in a futuristic time!
Highly recommended fantasy reading with some raw and brutal moments, taut action and deep emotional ties! A true hidden gem in the treasure chest of reading!
I received a complimentary copy from R.A. Correa!
Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc. (December 21, 2016)
Publication Date: December 21, 2016
Genre: Scifi | Space Opera
Print Length: 268 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Kathy Masters was about to embark on a journey of a lifetime, photographing the flora and fauna of a newly discovered planet. She had no idea she would begin a nine year adventure beginning as the prisoner of space pirates and swiftly becoming one among their family. She is called on to raise a young orphan who would become another prized “princess” with a crew full of protective fathers, but none as watchful as Captain James Ulysses Black.
Had Kathy finally found a place to belong, a home in the stars? Was she ready to live a life of danger among the fiercest of thieves, plunderers and murderers?
This is more than a space adventure, it is a story of bonding with others, proof that home definitely IS where the heart is and even the coldest of hearts can be melted. Could the universe have gotten the truth of the pirate leader and his crew wrong?
Told mostly through Kathy’s memories long after she had left the stars, it is a space romance filled with battles, unspoken words, atonements and a longing to relive the life she had.
Fabulous descriptions paint each scene in vivid detail as R.A. Correa creates a unique story that crosses genres like a comet crosses the skies! Get lost in a tale that straddles time with a feeling of long ago in a futuristic time!
Highly recommended fantasy reading with some raw and brutal moments, taut action and deep emotional ties! A true hidden gem in the treasure chest of reading!
I received a complimentary copy from R.A. Correa!
Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc. (December 21, 2016)
Publication Date: December 21, 2016
Genre: Scifi | Space Opera
Print Length: 268 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 3, 2019
This is a fantastic sci-fi adventure. There's spaceships, space battles, fascinating planets, and of course aliens. And it's all mixed together with a kind of 1600's piracy-vibe, and it's amazing. I was hesitant at first, thinking it was a bit slow to start, but this book is exactly the reason why I never put a book down before I've gotten well into it, because it got so good.
It's the story and the characters that does it. The story is told to us by Kathy and Cindy, as they're being interviewed by a journalist after their adventures on the Rapier, and their story is incredible. The character arcs are exciting and gripping, following Cindy's upbringing. We actually use her birthdays as a way to track time in this book, which I thought was very well done. They learn to live aboard the Rapier, learning to fight with laser guns and sword, to battle other spaceships, and to navigate their way around space. It's fascinating. And the sci-fi is very well done. By that I mean the focus on space and the spaceship. I feel like a lot of research has gone into this, and I like to gauge how well it's been done by how little I understand. The way they talk about the Rapier makes me feel like I know the ship.
It's the story and the characters that does it. The story is told to us by Kathy and Cindy, as they're being interviewed by a journalist after their adventures on the Rapier, and their story is incredible. The character arcs are exciting and gripping, following Cindy's upbringing. We actually use her birthdays as a way to track time in this book, which I thought was very well done. They learn to live aboard the Rapier, learning to fight with laser guns and sword, to battle other spaceships, and to navigate their way around space. It's fascinating. And the sci-fi is very well done. By that I mean the focus on space and the spaceship. I feel like a lot of research has gone into this, and I like to gauge how well it's been done by how little I understand. The way they talk about the Rapier makes me feel like I know the ship.
March 31, 2020
The story is compelling and complicated and presents the reader with a lot to think about.
I agree with many of the other reviewers. This is a great space story, full of adventures, amazing and fascinating life forms and characters I really liked. But I want to concentrate on one of the characters, Cindy. She was only five years old when her parents were killed. She's such an innocent when she comes aboard the Rapier, first as a prisoner and later as a part of the crew. The woman, Kathy Masters, who was captured with Cindy, becomes her new mother. The captain and later commodore of the ship, James Ulysses Black, becomes the person Cindy calls Daddy.
When Cindy becomes a part of the Rapier crew, she's "adopted" by all. As a crewman, she's taught to fight on almost a daily basis. She also learns how to operate the guns, just like a child learns how to play a video game. It is all a game for the little girl until at the age of six, things change. Cindy has had a lot of gunnery training, and shortly after her sixth birthday, the Rapier encounters an enemy merchantman ship and an armed sloop. A battle ensues with Cindy sitting on the lap of the man in charge of the weapons. When told to fire, the crewman fires a particle beam. Being the excited child who loves to play, Cindy hits the rail guns and fires four times. The fire power she unleashes is enough to snap the sloop in half. That's when Cindy sees something she wasn't supposed to see. Before the captain can change the view screen, Cindy witnesses what she's actually done. Bodies, some still alive, are dumped into the vacuum of space and the results are gruesome. Cindy is horrified and screams, "I killed them."
Even though people try to convince Cindy that the enemy was trying to kill them, Cindy is inconsolable. Her life as an innocent is over. It's only after someone Cindy loves is killed that she totally leaves that innocence behind. Her cries of anguish over her deed become an outraged cry when she sees the body of a young man she adored. She states, "I'm going to kill them all."
After that pivotal time in her life, Cindy is never the same loving child. Her innocence is gone, and she becomes a tough, battle-ready member of the crew. Even when she returns to Earth and a supposed "normal life, she snaps at Kathy and says, "I'm not normal." Cindy is expelled from school after school due to her belligerent attitude. She decides who among her classmates should be punished. The author, R. A. "Doc" Correa, does a brilliant job of describing how a child goes through the transformation from innocence to being a no nonsense warrior.
The author also presents a picture of people who are caught up in a war. After suffering extreme losses, they become warriors who don't feel they have any choice in the matter. The story is compelling and complicated and presents the reader with a lot to think about. Great job, R. A. "Doc" Correa. Extremely well done and highly recommended five star read.
I agree with many of the other reviewers. This is a great space story, full of adventures, amazing and fascinating life forms and characters I really liked. But I want to concentrate on one of the characters, Cindy. She was only five years old when her parents were killed. She's such an innocent when she comes aboard the Rapier, first as a prisoner and later as a part of the crew. The woman, Kathy Masters, who was captured with Cindy, becomes her new mother. The captain and later commodore of the ship, James Ulysses Black, becomes the person Cindy calls Daddy.
When Cindy becomes a part of the Rapier crew, she's "adopted" by all. As a crewman, she's taught to fight on almost a daily basis. She also learns how to operate the guns, just like a child learns how to play a video game. It is all a game for the little girl until at the age of six, things change. Cindy has had a lot of gunnery training, and shortly after her sixth birthday, the Rapier encounters an enemy merchantman ship and an armed sloop. A battle ensues with Cindy sitting on the lap of the man in charge of the weapons. When told to fire, the crewman fires a particle beam. Being the excited child who loves to play, Cindy hits the rail guns and fires four times. The fire power she unleashes is enough to snap the sloop in half. That's when Cindy sees something she wasn't supposed to see. Before the captain can change the view screen, Cindy witnesses what she's actually done. Bodies, some still alive, are dumped into the vacuum of space and the results are gruesome. Cindy is horrified and screams, "I killed them."
Even though people try to convince Cindy that the enemy was trying to kill them, Cindy is inconsolable. Her life as an innocent is over. It's only after someone Cindy loves is killed that she totally leaves that innocence behind. Her cries of anguish over her deed become an outraged cry when she sees the body of a young man she adored. She states, "I'm going to kill them all."
After that pivotal time in her life, Cindy is never the same loving child. Her innocence is gone, and she becomes a tough, battle-ready member of the crew. Even when she returns to Earth and a supposed "normal life, she snaps at Kathy and says, "I'm not normal." Cindy is expelled from school after school due to her belligerent attitude. She decides who among her classmates should be punished. The author, R. A. "Doc" Correa, does a brilliant job of describing how a child goes through the transformation from innocence to being a no nonsense warrior.
The author also presents a picture of people who are caught up in a war. After suffering extreme losses, they become warriors who don't feel they have any choice in the matter. The story is compelling and complicated and presents the reader with a lot to think about. Great job, R. A. "Doc" Correa. Extremely well done and highly recommended five star read.
June 20, 2019
This fantastic tale brings me back to my childhood, where I grew up reading the likes of C.S. Forester (Hornblower series), Edgar Rice Burroughs’s SF fantasy series, Isaac Asimov’s magnificent Foundation series, and the naval novels by Douglas Reeman (just to name a few).
Wonderful characters with genuine emotions and conflicts. Gripping space battles, heinous villains, marvels of the galaxy, and unheard of new alien species. A SciFi saga that should rank up there with the greats.
The author, Richard “Doc” Correa gives his fertile imagination full throttle and lets the reader immerse and lose himself in a memorable journey. Many thanks Richard and I’m looking forward to the sequel(s) 👍
A five gold ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star (or should that be doubloon?) rating that is truly deserved.
Wonderful characters with genuine emotions and conflicts. Gripping space battles, heinous villains, marvels of the galaxy, and unheard of new alien species. A SciFi saga that should rank up there with the greats.
The author, Richard “Doc” Correa gives his fertile imagination full throttle and lets the reader immerse and lose himself in a memorable journey. Many thanks Richard and I’m looking forward to the sequel(s) 👍
A five gold ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star (or should that be doubloon?) rating that is truly deserved.
December 15, 2019
Grand Space Opera, in the grandest tradition!
Heart warming scenes with memorable characters and settings in colonies on some unforgettable planets, with piracy on the cold oceans of space in the 24th century. Some truly unforgettable aliens and titanic space battles in the tradition of E. E. 'doc' Smith. This is a touching and memorable epic which will endure in my imagination, together with all the great stories from the Golden Age Of Science Fiction.
Heart warming scenes with memorable characters and settings in colonies on some unforgettable planets, with piracy on the cold oceans of space in the 24th century. Some truly unforgettable aliens and titanic space battles in the tradition of E. E. 'doc' Smith. This is a touching and memorable epic which will endure in my imagination, together with all the great stories from the Golden Age Of Science Fiction.
March 22, 2021
When a young woman is captured in a space pirate raid, the pirates find they got more than they bargained for. Doc Correa with a keypad and words paints new worlds and races with incredible life, beauty, and danger. Rapier is a fast action space adventure which I truly enjoyed reading. I am looking forward to book two.
October 4, 2017
Whatever flaws we might identify or frustrations we might feel are trivial in comparison to a reader's pure joy in losing himself/herself in a narrative. When all the elements come together: an intriguing plot, thoughtful, profound themes, complex, troubling, characters, and language that make us shudder for its honesty, clarity, and confidence; we gratefully set all analysis aside and give ourselves up to the sheer magic of a great book. And for me, Rapier, is such a book.
Author R. A. "Doc" Correa weaves an amazing action and adventure sci-fi fantasy, with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader's attention from the beginning. The author paints a very vivid and moving story of survival against the backdrop of a violent Universe where gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles and slave trades abound.
The book description says it all; 'Kathy Masters never expected to journey to the stars until she was selected by the prestigious Galactic Geographic Society to photograph and get videos of the flora and fauna of a newly discovered class M planet before colonization begins. Filled with hope and enthusiasm she boards the S.S. America for the trip to Beta 3 Epsilon to begin her new project.
On the way she is abducted and brought aboard the privateer Rapier beginning her nine year sojourn among the colonies of mankind. Going from captive to slave to induction into the infamous Brotherhood Kathy finds herself being called on to raise the adopted daughter of the crew of the Rapier.
Given the responsibility to raise their princess, Cindy, with the help of Lien Lan Yi, daughter of the house of Yi and princess of the imperial court, they travel among the stars preying on merchant ships, dodging Chinese warships, fighting pirates, visiting strange worlds and encountering fantastic creatures all under the watchful eyes of Commodore James Ulysses Black.
Trying to raise a young girl among gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles, slave trades, deals and some of the most feared raiders in human space is no small challenge. The only question is; is Kathy up to the task?'
Now, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself to find out! But I will say it's well worth the read. It's my first time reading this author and I must say I was very impressed.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those books that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.
If this book is anything to go by, I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from R. A. "Doc" Correa in the future. I would definitely recommend this book and would love to see it adapted for the Silver Screen. Five stars from me.
Author R. A. "Doc" Correa weaves an amazing action and adventure sci-fi fantasy, with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader's attention from the beginning. The author paints a very vivid and moving story of survival against the backdrop of a violent Universe where gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles and slave trades abound.
The book description says it all; 'Kathy Masters never expected to journey to the stars until she was selected by the prestigious Galactic Geographic Society to photograph and get videos of the flora and fauna of a newly discovered class M planet before colonization begins. Filled with hope and enthusiasm she boards the S.S. America for the trip to Beta 3 Epsilon to begin her new project.
On the way she is abducted and brought aboard the privateer Rapier beginning her nine year sojourn among the colonies of mankind. Going from captive to slave to induction into the infamous Brotherhood Kathy finds herself being called on to raise the adopted daughter of the crew of the Rapier.
Given the responsibility to raise their princess, Cindy, with the help of Lien Lan Yi, daughter of the house of Yi and princess of the imperial court, they travel among the stars preying on merchant ships, dodging Chinese warships, fighting pirates, visiting strange worlds and encountering fantastic creatures all under the watchful eyes of Commodore James Ulysses Black.
Trying to raise a young girl among gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles, slave trades, deals and some of the most feared raiders in human space is no small challenge. The only question is; is Kathy up to the task?'
Now, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself to find out! But I will say it's well worth the read. It's my first time reading this author and I must say I was very impressed.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those books that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.
If this book is anything to go by, I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from R. A. "Doc" Correa in the future. I would definitely recommend this book and would love to see it adapted for the Silver Screen. Five stars from me.
October 3, 2017
Kathy Masters never thought her trip to the stars until she was chosen by the important Galactic Geographic Society to photograph and get videos. I was intrigued by the stories the characters were captivating it’s a must read.
November 9, 2017
Whatever flaws we might identify or frustrations we might feel are trivial in comparison to a reader's pure joy in losing himself/herself in a narrative. When all the elements come together: an intriguing plot, thoughtful, profound themes, complex, troubling, characters, and language that make us shudder for its honesty, clarity, and confidence; we gratefully set all analysis aside and give ourselves up to the sheer magic of a great book. And for me, Rapier, is such a book.
Author R. A. "Doc" Correa weaves an amazing action and adventure sci-fi fantasy, with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader's attention from the beginning. The author paints a very vivid and moving story of survival against the backdrop of a violent Universe where gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles and slave trades abound.
The book description says it all; 'Kathy Masters never expected to journey to the stars until she was selected by the prestigious Galactic Geographic Society to photograph and get videos of the flora and fauna of a newly discovered class M planet before colonization begins. Filled with hope and enthusiasm she boards the S.S. America for the trip to Beta 3 Epsilon to begin her new project.
On the way she is abducted and brought aboard the privateer Rapier beginning her nine year sojourn among the colonies of mankind. Going from captive to slave to induction into the infamous Brotherhood Kathy finds herself being called on to raise the adopted daughter of the crew of the Rapier.
Given the responsibility to raise their princess, Cindy, with the help of Lien Lan Yi, daughter of the house of Yi and princess of the imperial court, they travel among the stars preying on merchant ships, dodging Chinese warships, fighting pirates, visiting strange worlds and encountering fantastic creatures all under the watchful eyes of Commodore James Ulysses Black.
Trying to raise a young girl among gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles, slave trades, deals and some of the most feared raiders in human space is no small challenge. The only question is; is Kathy up to the task?'
Now, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself to find out! But I will say it's well worth the read. It's my first time reading this author and I must say I was very impressed.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those books that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.
If this book is anything to go by, I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from R. A. "Doc" Correa in the future. I would definitely recommend this book and would love to see it adapted for the Silver Screen. Five stars from me.
Author R. A. "Doc" Correa weaves an amazing action and adventure sci-fi fantasy, with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader's attention from the beginning. The author paints a very vivid and moving story of survival against the backdrop of a violent Universe where gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles and slave trades abound.
The book description says it all; 'Kathy Masters never expected to journey to the stars until she was selected by the prestigious Galactic Geographic Society to photograph and get videos of the flora and fauna of a newly discovered class M planet before colonization begins. Filled with hope and enthusiasm she boards the S.S. America for the trip to Beta 3 Epsilon to begin her new project.
On the way she is abducted and brought aboard the privateer Rapier beginning her nine year sojourn among the colonies of mankind. Going from captive to slave to induction into the infamous Brotherhood Kathy finds herself being called on to raise the adopted daughter of the crew of the Rapier.
Given the responsibility to raise their princess, Cindy, with the help of Lien Lan Yi, daughter of the house of Yi and princess of the imperial court, they travel among the stars preying on merchant ships, dodging Chinese warships, fighting pirates, visiting strange worlds and encountering fantastic creatures all under the watchful eyes of Commodore James Ulysses Black.
Trying to raise a young girl among gunfights, sword fights, ship to ship battles, slave trades, deals and some of the most feared raiders in human space is no small challenge. The only question is; is Kathy up to the task?'
Now, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself to find out! But I will say it's well worth the read. It's my first time reading this author and I must say I was very impressed.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those books that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.
If this book is anything to go by, I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from R. A. "Doc" Correa in the future. I would definitely recommend this book and would love to see it adapted for the Silver Screen. Five stars from me.
April 19, 2019
A space odyssey of legendary proportions. An elaborate science-fiction novel, a galactic experience, Rapier is probably my personal favorite of this year, 2018. And I read a lot of books. Because this epic has it all! The face-paced, in-the-present style of writing always keeps the story moving along at light speed. But after each jump to or from hyperspace anything can happen and does. Swimming with whales living in nebulae of thick, colorful gases. Horse-sized wolves and never-before-seen natives and underwater adventures to meet the almighty, giving ones: bioengineering “gifts” with omnipotent capabilities. And sword-fights, blazingly fast strokes of the gleaming steel, bellies bursting, men keeling over.
Grow up with the cutest, feistiest young girl, and women you’ll be sure to fall in love with. Cindy, and her warmhearted, talented mother, Kathy. And then later, Cindy’s rescued sister—a princess of the enemy: Lien. Travel, live, and give and receive love from the largest family, team, and close-knit crew anyone could hope brave the galaxy with…
The Privateers! (Not pirates).
But they have a reason for setting out time and again, doing what they MUST do, a heart-wrenching reason and a truth most are ignorant to (the Chinese, the Americans), and everything is NOT as it seems before those painful truths come to light. Difficult lives, loved ones lost, worlds decimated and binding grudges. Lifelong pain, thorns that can never, ever be removed—yet, there is improvement, betterment and an overcoming of personal demons, a continuation of enlightenment supported by morality, just and true sailors and the bylaws of the brotherhood.
Aboard the Rapier, venture to extraordinary worlds like Safe Port, Reavers Cove, Kyle’s World, the future Earth and many more. Breathtaking lands. And all-out, fight-for-your-life, aghast torture, troubles and tribulations. And the terrible, unthinkable, does happen. But battles are won—and lost. Mates perish and new, very SPECIAL life is born (because of this special person, plus so much more, I’m anxious for the sequel!).
Cleverly the author manages to describe in vivid detail the reality of living in space, what happens when ships explode or implode, the myriad weapons and tactics of Space Pirates (Privateers!), and each character in ways that enthrall the reader, makes laughs spill out, as well a few tears when things do not go as planned.
I must truthfully say, this tale hooked and held me—a long book yet I finished it rather quickly. Generally, I stop reading around 6 p.m. or so and work on my own novels (WIPs), but for Rapier I found myself taking a few days off. It hooked me all right, and as the ending culminated, the unexpected, yet satisfying nature of this fantastic space adventure had me buckled in for the ride, G-forces clobbering my brain, blowing me away time after time. FIVE STARS for an original, fast-paced saga, characters I cared about, staggering worlds that nuked my imagination, a few tears here and there (joy AND sadness), and most potently, an ending that TOTALLY nailed it! Pins masterfully set up for the sequel, and I can’t wait to knock ’em down, world by world, chapter by chapter!
Nice job, Doc. Don’t pass on this title. Rapier!
Grow up with the cutest, feistiest young girl, and women you’ll be sure to fall in love with. Cindy, and her warmhearted, talented mother, Kathy. And then later, Cindy’s rescued sister—a princess of the enemy: Lien. Travel, live, and give and receive love from the largest family, team, and close-knit crew anyone could hope brave the galaxy with…
The Privateers! (Not pirates).
But they have a reason for setting out time and again, doing what they MUST do, a heart-wrenching reason and a truth most are ignorant to (the Chinese, the Americans), and everything is NOT as it seems before those painful truths come to light. Difficult lives, loved ones lost, worlds decimated and binding grudges. Lifelong pain, thorns that can never, ever be removed—yet, there is improvement, betterment and an overcoming of personal demons, a continuation of enlightenment supported by morality, just and true sailors and the bylaws of the brotherhood.
Aboard the Rapier, venture to extraordinary worlds like Safe Port, Reavers Cove, Kyle’s World, the future Earth and many more. Breathtaking lands. And all-out, fight-for-your-life, aghast torture, troubles and tribulations. And the terrible, unthinkable, does happen. But battles are won—and lost. Mates perish and new, very SPECIAL life is born (because of this special person, plus so much more, I’m anxious for the sequel!).
Cleverly the author manages to describe in vivid detail the reality of living in space, what happens when ships explode or implode, the myriad weapons and tactics of Space Pirates (Privateers!), and each character in ways that enthrall the reader, makes laughs spill out, as well a few tears when things do not go as planned.
I must truthfully say, this tale hooked and held me—a long book yet I finished it rather quickly. Generally, I stop reading around 6 p.m. or so and work on my own novels (WIPs), but for Rapier I found myself taking a few days off. It hooked me all right, and as the ending culminated, the unexpected, yet satisfying nature of this fantastic space adventure had me buckled in for the ride, G-forces clobbering my brain, blowing me away time after time. FIVE STARS for an original, fast-paced saga, characters I cared about, staggering worlds that nuked my imagination, a few tears here and there (joy AND sadness), and most potently, an ending that TOTALLY nailed it! Pins masterfully set up for the sequel, and I can’t wait to knock ’em down, world by world, chapter by chapter!
Nice job, Doc. Don’t pass on this title. Rapier!
October 23, 2017
I came across the title Rapier on Twitter when I was lucky enough to make acquaintances with R.A. "Doc" Correa a former combat medic, turned computer scientist turned writer after a distinguished career.
Rapier is to put it mildly a swashbuckling ride - It is a tale of Piracy, slavery, interstellar politics and heroism where the protagonists time and time again seem to be pitted against insurmountable odds!
In Rapier you will be following the tale of Kathy Masters a photographer sent on a mission to document flora and fauna of a new planet before colonization begins.
Her adventure takes a swashbuckling turn as mentioned earlier, as she and a little girl are taken hostage by a buccaneering StarShip Captain on a determined quest of his own.
When I first started reading the story, the writing style was the first thing springing to mind.
I found it a bit disturbing at first because the author had chosen a very unique PoV for his story.
Luckily as I read on the style became quite enjoyable in a weird detached way and really allowed the storyline to flow seemingly uninterrupted by me only being able to read the story in short bursts.
As the adventure unfolded and deepened the motives of the mysterious Captain became clearer and understandable. Universe wise the story is filled with both imaginative, fantastic and mysterious creatures.
The plot revolves mainly around the female protagonists and how they evolve into full crew and participants in a quest beyond anything they could have imagined.
Rapier is filled with both space battles and intrigue, as well as thoughts on growing up and how parental actions and the child's experience of these actions can shape the child's mind.
The story continuously leads toward a big climax as the protagonist tells her fantastic tale to a listening editor and I'd say the possibilities for a sequel is quite likely, as there seems to be so much more to explore in the universe "Doc" has been building.
Personally I would love to read more from the Rapier universe in order to see how the big “nation” players fare against each other in their war.
I would very much enjoy a much deeper look into the brotherhood and their code, how did they come about and develop into a guild of sorts, as well as delve much deeper into the characters.
Perhaps especially Lien Lan Yi the Chinese Royal Princess and Cindy would be perfect for further development, plus not least the intriguing Natives of Safe port, in order to better understand their actions and motives.
Will the protagonists can find their peace, in the turmoil the Rapier universe has to offer? - Only time will tell !!!
Overall a really nice read by R.A. “Doc” Correra - One I hope you too will have the chance to have an enjoyable encounter with if sequels are written.
If you pick it up please let me know what you felt and though - Hit me up on Twitter @TheEinarkist
Rapier is to put it mildly a swashbuckling ride - It is a tale of Piracy, slavery, interstellar politics and heroism where the protagonists time and time again seem to be pitted against insurmountable odds!
In Rapier you will be following the tale of Kathy Masters a photographer sent on a mission to document flora and fauna of a new planet before colonization begins.
Her adventure takes a swashbuckling turn as mentioned earlier, as she and a little girl are taken hostage by a buccaneering StarShip Captain on a determined quest of his own.
When I first started reading the story, the writing style was the first thing springing to mind.
I found it a bit disturbing at first because the author had chosen a very unique PoV for his story.
Luckily as I read on the style became quite enjoyable in a weird detached way and really allowed the storyline to flow seemingly uninterrupted by me only being able to read the story in short bursts.
As the adventure unfolded and deepened the motives of the mysterious Captain became clearer and understandable. Universe wise the story is filled with both imaginative, fantastic and mysterious creatures.
The plot revolves mainly around the female protagonists and how they evolve into full crew and participants in a quest beyond anything they could have imagined.
Rapier is filled with both space battles and intrigue, as well as thoughts on growing up and how parental actions and the child's experience of these actions can shape the child's mind.
The story continuously leads toward a big climax as the protagonist tells her fantastic tale to a listening editor and I'd say the possibilities for a sequel is quite likely, as there seems to be so much more to explore in the universe "Doc" has been building.
Personally I would love to read more from the Rapier universe in order to see how the big “nation” players fare against each other in their war.
I would very much enjoy a much deeper look into the brotherhood and their code, how did they come about and develop into a guild of sorts, as well as delve much deeper into the characters.
Perhaps especially Lien Lan Yi the Chinese Royal Princess and Cindy would be perfect for further development, plus not least the intriguing Natives of Safe port, in order to better understand their actions and motives.
Will the protagonists can find their peace, in the turmoil the Rapier universe has to offer? - Only time will tell !!!
Overall a really nice read by R.A. “Doc” Correra - One I hope you too will have the chance to have an enjoyable encounter with if sequels are written.
If you pick it up please let me know what you felt and though - Hit me up on Twitter @TheEinarkist
December 21, 2019
I have to say that I am not normally a reader of science fiction, but thought I would step out of my comfort zone and give this a read. After all I do like the films Guardians of the Galaxy. To be honest I think this could be made into a film like they were.
Kathy had been about to embark on the trip of a lifetime, taking photographs of plant life on a newly discovered planet. What she hadn’t expected was to be a prisoner of space pirates, but over nine years, she became one of the family.
The story begins with Kathy Masters telling their story, as all the money she had has been confiscated so she is struggling, she has the responsibility of looking after her family she now has, the main story is told through Kathy and Cindy who is Kathy’s charge/ward/responsibility.
This book has some great characters, with real emotion, conflict, some great space battles, the usual baddies which you expect, some fantastic alien species, I have to say this author has a terrific imagination, you are drawn into the story straight away.
This is not just about skies though, it’s about pirates with a difference, these pirates don’t reign the seas , the Rapier flies among the stars, planets and galaxies . With gun fights, sword fights, battles between ships and so much more.
The world building is unlike any I have read before, I hadn’t expected to enjoy this story as much as I did. The story flows really well, drawing you in from start to finish.
If you enjoy science fiction then grab this, but even if you don’t if you are looking for something a little different give this a go, you won’t be disappointed.
Kathy had been about to embark on the trip of a lifetime, taking photographs of plant life on a newly discovered planet. What she hadn’t expected was to be a prisoner of space pirates, but over nine years, she became one of the family.
The story begins with Kathy Masters telling their story, as all the money she had has been confiscated so she is struggling, she has the responsibility of looking after her family she now has, the main story is told through Kathy and Cindy who is Kathy’s charge/ward/responsibility.
This book has some great characters, with real emotion, conflict, some great space battles, the usual baddies which you expect, some fantastic alien species, I have to say this author has a terrific imagination, you are drawn into the story straight away.
This is not just about skies though, it’s about pirates with a difference, these pirates don’t reign the seas , the Rapier flies among the stars, planets and galaxies . With gun fights, sword fights, battles between ships and so much more.
The world building is unlike any I have read before, I hadn’t expected to enjoy this story as much as I did. The story flows really well, drawing you in from start to finish.
If you enjoy science fiction then grab this, but even if you don’t if you are looking for something a little different give this a go, you won’t be disappointed.
October 23, 2019
Kathy is a photographer on her way to take pictures of a newly discovered world. Her whole life changes instantly when the ship she is on is attacked by a privateer ship and she is taken captive along with the Chinese aboard and a young girl, Cindy.
She finds herself a prisoner of Captain James Black, the perfect picture of a pirate, floppy hat and all.
From being almost sold into slavery, Kathy goes from prisoner to slave to member of the crew. She is tasked with helping to raise 5-year old Cindy.
Learning to fight, use all the weapons, fly the ship Cindy and Kathy become worthy members of the Brotherhood.
Kathy gets to take pictures of things few have ever encountered.
But how long can Captain Black's luck stay good, and what is to become of Kathy and Cindy when it fails him?
Loved the story and I am glad to know there is a sequel in the works!
Funny thing, I always wanted to be a pirate learn to fence when I was young so remembering that Cindy was the child was difficult for me as I am no longer young.
She finds herself a prisoner of Captain James Black, the perfect picture of a pirate, floppy hat and all.
From being almost sold into slavery, Kathy goes from prisoner to slave to member of the crew. She is tasked with helping to raise 5-year old Cindy.
Learning to fight, use all the weapons, fly the ship Cindy and Kathy become worthy members of the Brotherhood.
Kathy gets to take pictures of things few have ever encountered.
But how long can Captain Black's luck stay good, and what is to become of Kathy and Cindy when it fails him?
Loved the story and I am glad to know there is a sequel in the works!
Funny thing, I always wanted to be a pirate learn to fence when I was young so remembering that Cindy was the child was difficult for me as I am no longer young.
June 13, 2018
Great world-building. I found the space creatures the author created to be particularly fascinating.
There’s plenty of action, from sword fights to full-on ship-to-ship battles in space.
The female characters are strong and resilient. Since the story is told over a long time period, the reader is able to follow Cindy from scared orphaned girl to the take-charge, fearless woman she becomes.
The combination of Commodore Black and Kathy Masters is an interesting one. They obviously care deeply for each other, however, during the course of this story, are not given the opportunity to enter into a close/intimate relationship. Perhaps the author will allow their relationship to deepen in the next book, or so the romantic in me hopes!
If you’re a fan of Sci-fi adventure, you’ll like Rapier.
There’s plenty of action, from sword fights to full-on ship-to-ship battles in space.
The female characters are strong and resilient. Since the story is told over a long time period, the reader is able to follow Cindy from scared orphaned girl to the take-charge, fearless woman she becomes.
The combination of Commodore Black and Kathy Masters is an interesting one. They obviously care deeply for each other, however, during the course of this story, are not given the opportunity to enter into a close/intimate relationship. Perhaps the author will allow their relationship to deepen in the next book, or so the romantic in me hopes!
If you’re a fan of Sci-fi adventure, you’ll like Rapier.
February 9, 2022
Just WOW!!!!!!
Not being a huge sci-fi fan I never would have imagined before reading this book that I would now be saying it's one of my favorites read not just recently but EVER!
This author's writing style is no-nonsense. There's nothing flowery or pretentious about it! What you will get is an action-packed world-building story that will grab you from the start! And yes, it's even a great love story!
The characters are interesting and diverse and find their way into your heart before you even realize it, and the storyline is incredible! I am so pleasantly surprised by this gripping tale that I can't wait for the next Installment!
I simply can't imagine anyone that gives this book a chance not thoroughly enjoying it, no matter what genre you normally read! I'm so happy I did! Well done, Mr. Correa, well done!
Not being a huge sci-fi fan I never would have imagined before reading this book that I would now be saying it's one of my favorites read not just recently but EVER!
This author's writing style is no-nonsense. There's nothing flowery or pretentious about it! What you will get is an action-packed world-building story that will grab you from the start! And yes, it's even a great love story!
The characters are interesting and diverse and find their way into your heart before you even realize it, and the storyline is incredible! I am so pleasantly surprised by this gripping tale that I can't wait for the next Installment!
I simply can't imagine anyone that gives this book a chance not thoroughly enjoying it, no matter what genre you normally read! I'm so happy I did! Well done, Mr. Correa, well done!
June 10, 2024
"Rapier" by R.A. Correa is an exhilarating science fiction adventure that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the cosmos. Kathy Masters, chosen by the Galactic Geographic Society to document a new planet, finds her plans upended when she's abducted by the privateer Rapier. Her nine-year journey transforms her from captive to slave to a respected member of the infamous Brotherhood. Charged with raising Cindy, the crew's adopted princess, Kathy navigates a treacherous world of ship battles, pirates, and exotic planets. Correa’s vivid storytelling and dynamic characters make "Rapier" a captivating read, blending action, intrigue, and the complexities of raising a child in space.
January 26, 2018
Rapier written by R.A. “DOC” Correa is a fast paced Sci-fi adventure that will keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next. Correa’s vivid imagination takes you to previously undiscovered worlds where you will meet unique creatures and people. The unusual plot is captivating. A must read.
January 16, 2020
Pirates in Space
Rapier is a good story centering around Kathy a photographer who got her once in a lifetime opportunity to travel the stars and take pictures of her greatest adventure. She unintentionally gets wrapped up with pirates who changed her life forever.
Rapier is a good story centering around Kathy a photographer who got her once in a lifetime opportunity to travel the stars and take pictures of her greatest adventure. She unintentionally gets wrapped up with pirates who changed her life forever.
November 30, 2017
I ended up finding this story fascinating with it's sci-fi elements; and found it sad how Cindy changed the way she did. I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2021
Rapier was enthralling at some times and completely unbelievable at others. I would definitely consider reading it again. Kathy's tale can't be over yet!
March 27, 2018
Entertaining sci-fi action
Unusual POV which I got quickly used to. It had strong female protagonists. For those of a sensitive nature it included a rape scene. It contained exceptional well thought out world building and I loved the animal contacts and visits to the different worlds. It was full of swashbuckling and action that I particularly enjoyed. I loved Captain James Black, Kathy, Cindy, and Lien, all of the characters really, I thought the structure of their roles well written. The story moved along very smoothly. I totally enjoyed the engrossing action sci-fic story. Very entertaining enjoyable book. I would read another book by R. A. “Doc” Correa.
Unusual POV which I got quickly used to. It had strong female protagonists. For those of a sensitive nature it included a rape scene. It contained exceptional well thought out world building and I loved the animal contacts and visits to the different worlds. It was full of swashbuckling and action that I particularly enjoyed. I loved Captain James Black, Kathy, Cindy, and Lien, all of the characters really, I thought the structure of their roles well written. The story moved along very smoothly. I totally enjoyed the engrossing action sci-fic story. Very entertaining enjoyable book. I would read another book by R. A. “Doc” Correa.
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November 16, 2017Can't wait to see if Kathy finds her Commodore Black in the next one!
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