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The Revelations Cycle #1
Cartwright's Cavaliers
*** 2017 Dragon Award Finalist for Best Military Scifi *** Heir to one of the leading “Four Horsemen” mercenary companies, Jim Cartwright is having a bad year. Having failed his high school VOWS tests, he's just learned his mother bankrupted the family company before disappearing, robbing him of his Cavalier birthright. But the Horsemen of eras past were smart—they left a legacy of equipment Jim can use to complete the next contract and resurrect the company. It’s up to Jim to find the people he needs to operate the machinery of war, train them, and lead them to victory. If he’s good enough, the company can still be salvaged. But then again, he’s never been good enough.
473 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2016
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July 7, 2018
Cartwright's Cavaliers
The Revelations Cycle, Book 1
By: Mark Wandrey
Narrated by: Craig Good
This is a really good science fiction book I hope is a series. The main character is a chubby guy which makes me like him right away! He is not the muscle bound guy that is the typical hero but the hero's son that looks like a disappointment to everyone. We follow him as he grows in confidence, he already has a lot of skills, as he takes over a dying enterprise. The characters are unique and people that would be great to be on a mission with! It is a excellent story with plenty of exciting things to keep the reader/listener entertained. Will look for book two!
The narrator was awesome and easy performed all the voices and there are some strange ones to make! Great job!
The Revelations Cycle, Book 1
By: Mark Wandrey
Narrated by: Craig Good
This is a really good science fiction book I hope is a series. The main character is a chubby guy which makes me like him right away! He is not the muscle bound guy that is the typical hero but the hero's son that looks like a disappointment to everyone. We follow him as he grows in confidence, he already has a lot of skills, as he takes over a dying enterprise. The characters are unique and people that would be great to be on a mission with! It is a excellent story with plenty of exciting things to keep the reader/listener entertained. Will look for book two!
The narrator was awesome and easy performed all the voices and there are some strange ones to make! Great job!
September 26, 2021
Jimmy Cartwright has turned 18 and just graduated school. It is time for him to move into a management position in the family business, Cartwright’s Cavaliers. It takes a tad over 10% of this book for Jimmy Cartwright to hit rock bottom. “You realize that you are, by law, responsible for the remainder of this debt, under the Inheritance Reform Act of 2020.”
“I do, Your Honor.”
The judge looked down at her slate. “The total remaining debt is 188,012,801.15 credits. How do you intend to settle this?”
Jim’s attorney spoke for him. “Mr. Cartwright is declaring bankruptcy, Your Honor.”
She nodded, having expected that. “You could have done that before any of this happened, you know,” she said, shaking her head.
“It wouldn’t have been fair,” he said. “Besides, doing that would have destroyed the name of the Cavaliers, and we’d have lost our charter.”
“That’s true,” the judge said, “but what good is a charter when you have no capital or equipment with which to operate? Who would give a contract to the shell of a company, even one with your name?”
So we have seen this growth from power-challenged padawan to leader. Jimmy is not Luke or Harry. There isn’t a force to master, but Wandrey does nicely in providing adequate reasons for Cartwright’s growth and maturation as he decides to re-establish Cartwright’s Cavaliers.
Now to explain the Cavaliers. They are one of a limited group of mercenaries in a very large universe of worlds and species that need their assistance. The larger universe operates on what is at times characterized as a “libertarian” philosophy.
Cavaliers excels at descriptions of weaponry and aliens and the battle scenes are more than adequate. There is a heaping amount of “comfort plot” by which I mean things that make you feel good but are not particularly innovative. Every so often, Wandrey will surprise with a nice turn of phrase:
"A small smile broke the Major’s face, almost like a crack appearing in a granite countertop."
But for the most part, this is a new show with a retread plot. It will be interesting to see whether the next book breaks any new ground.
Thanks to GR friend, Montzalee, for pointing me in this direction.
“I do, Your Honor.”
The judge looked down at her slate. “The total remaining debt is 188,012,801.15 credits. How do you intend to settle this?”
Jim’s attorney spoke for him. “Mr. Cartwright is declaring bankruptcy, Your Honor.”
She nodded, having expected that. “You could have done that before any of this happened, you know,” she said, shaking her head.
“It wouldn’t have been fair,” he said. “Besides, doing that would have destroyed the name of the Cavaliers, and we’d have lost our charter.”
“That’s true,” the judge said, “but what good is a charter when you have no capital or equipment with which to operate? Who would give a contract to the shell of a company, even one with your name?”
So we have seen this growth from power-challenged padawan to leader. Jimmy is not Luke or Harry. There isn’t a force to master, but Wandrey does nicely in providing adequate reasons for Cartwright’s growth and maturation as he decides to re-establish Cartwright’s Cavaliers.
Now to explain the Cavaliers. They are one of a limited group of mercenaries in a very large universe of worlds and species that need their assistance. The larger universe operates on what is at times characterized as a “libertarian” philosophy.
Cavaliers excels at descriptions of weaponry and aliens and the battle scenes are more than adequate. There is a heaping amount of “comfort plot” by which I mean things that make you feel good but are not particularly innovative. Every so often, Wandrey will surprise with a nice turn of phrase:
"A small smile broke the Major’s face, almost like a crack appearing in a granite countertop."
But for the most part, this is a new show with a retread plot. It will be interesting to see whether the next book breaks any new ground.
Thanks to GR friend, Montzalee, for pointing me in this direction.
December 25, 2018
This is a pretty good but very simple and shallow sci-fi novel, July 27, 2017
This review is from: Cartwright's Cavaliers (The Revelations Cycle Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
This is a pretty good but very simple sci-fi novel. Major parts of the plot are very predictable such as the combat value of the ancient, "useless" giant robots and the extreme value of Jim's rescuer, Splunk, as a friend and ally. Most of the combat scenes are well done and entertaining. The device of the fat, out-of-shape and mostly untrained Jim stumbling into combat success is pretty good. His single handed battle with an enemy heavy tank is worth the price of admission. That'll earn a tank destroyer badge!
The romance angle is very poorly done. No explanation until near the end as to why the beautiful woman is attracted to the not so beautiful Jim. For that matter, other than looks, and the fact that Jim is desperate in the girlfriend department, why is he attracted to her? The beginnings of a shallow relationship?
I too like battleships, particularly the U. S. Iowa Class, so I'm willing to overlook the credulity stretching way that two of their big guns get into combat. I'm not sure that others will be so forgiving. Speaking of forgiving, the plot device of having a grown or somewhat grown man, commander of a mercenary unit, being a fan of My Little Pony and collecting the stuffed animals, is too much for me. Stuffed animals? He carries a stuffed animal Rainbow Dash in his combat armor? No, No. Beyond silly. Doesn't work.
I downloaded this book via Kindle Unlimited.
This review is from: Cartwright's Cavaliers (The Revelations Cycle Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
This is a pretty good but very simple sci-fi novel. Major parts of the plot are very predictable such as the combat value of the ancient, "useless" giant robots and the extreme value of Jim's rescuer, Splunk, as a friend and ally. Most of the combat scenes are well done and entertaining. The device of the fat, out-of-shape and mostly untrained Jim stumbling into combat success is pretty good. His single handed battle with an enemy heavy tank is worth the price of admission. That'll earn a tank destroyer badge!
The romance angle is very poorly done. No explanation until near the end as to why the beautiful woman is attracted to the not so beautiful Jim. For that matter, other than looks, and the fact that Jim is desperate in the girlfriend department, why is he attracted to her? The beginnings of a shallow relationship?
I too like battleships, particularly the U. S. Iowa Class, so I'm willing to overlook the credulity stretching way that two of their big guns get into combat. I'm not sure that others will be so forgiving. Speaking of forgiving, the plot device of having a grown or somewhat grown man, commander of a mercenary unit, being a fan of My Little Pony and collecting the stuffed animals, is too much for me. Stuffed animals? He carries a stuffed animal Rainbow Dash in his combat armor? No, No. Beyond silly. Doesn't work.
I downloaded this book via Kindle Unlimited.
May 22, 2018
I have to admit that I began reading Cartwright’s Cavaliers with slightly low expectations. My previous foray into non-Battletech or Robotech mech books didn’t really satisfy, and I wasn’t even sure that I wanted to attempt another new series. And with the first chapter not really grabbing me, I thought for sure my time spent with Mark Wandrey’s Revelations Cycle series would be short lived indeed. But…something strange happened on the way to the mech hangar, and what started out seemingly as just another “hapless young man becomes a badass savior” tale ended up being so much more than that.
First, credit where credit is due; though he may not always flesh out the various other races and species within his tale, Mark Wandrey has established a rich and interesting universe in which this story takes place. It’s sort of like the Battletech universe actually, with humanity spread across the stars, and with various mercenary companies as a stand in for the great Houses. War is business in this story…and business is good. From garrison duty to full-scale assaults, and from small engagements to planet-wide battles, mercenary companies have replaced standing armies/navies, and are now the de-facto source for any situation that requires force and/or security. It’s a natural extension of the PMC stories that were super popular a few years ago, and Mr. Wandrey sells it well.
Despite certain elements of the story being a bit derivative at times, and more than a few “lucky break” plot contrivances, Cartwright’s Cavaliers is a solid start to a promising science fiction war series. I’m already itching to get started on book two, but other obligations will likely keep me from it for the short term.
As with all my reviews, I will attempt to keep spoilers to a minimum. Even a story about big metal mechs beating the crap out of things still deserves to be enjoyed without knowing the play-by-play ahead of time. If it’s not mentioned in the official book synopsis, then I will do my level best to avoid mentioning it here.
Aside from a few cutaways to ancillary characters, Cartwright’s Cavaliers is a single POV third-person affair, following the heir apparent of the titular Cavaliers, one of the 4 largest and most influential human mercenary companies. Jim Cartwright is nobody’s idea of a hero, himself included. While he has the mental chops and the general business acumen to run the company, his youth, lack of practical experience, and abysmal physical fitness scores have everyone doubting his ability. After all, mercenary work is physical work, and the Cartwright Cavaliers have a history of their commander being “boots on the ground” with the troops. Which is going to be quite a struggle for Jim, as unlike his father Thaddeus, he’s quite overweight and beyond clumsy. Taking ownership of the virtually defunct company after his mother ran it into the ground, Jim has one hell of an uphill battle ahead of him in restoring the Cavaliers to greatness, building a name for himself, and trying to find a way to stand apart from his father’s rather long shadow.
Jim is a rather strange character, and as far from leading man material as you can get. Which, in a way, is rather refreshing. We already have countless stories of dashing space jockeys winning the day (and the hearts of the leading ladies) without breaking a sweat. It’s actually refreshing to see a character that sweats quite a lot, even doing basic things. He is, in a way, somewhat like the Harry Potter of this universe. Surrounded by good friends and powerful allies, he nevertheless takes much of the responsibility upon himself, determined to learn and grow, despite not being this amazingly great person that everyone expects him to be given his lineage. And he definitely learns and grows as the story progresses. Through hard work and frequent mistakes, Jim gradually becomes a man in his own right, and because of the struggles he undergoes, it feels earned.
But not all is puppy sneezes and unicorn farts with Jim. Like so many other characters in books & movies these days, Jim is obsessed with the culture of the late 20th century. Believe me, I get the appeal of 80’s movies and 90’s music and toys. But that’s because I grew up through those times, so I have a firsthand appreciation and a nostalgic history. I find it rather hard to believe that over 100 years in the future, these things still have enough appeal that an 18 year old obsesses over them. But Jim has a Rainbow Dash pony in his mech, wears a vintage “Half Life” t-shirt, and blares “Let the Bodies Hit the Floor” by Drowning Pool, because somehow these things still resonate that far in the future. Dude…Drowning Pool…really? Hell, I even have the album on my iPod, and I hardly ever listen to it. And some young kid from the future uses it as his war song? Nope. Just…nope. There’s a time and a place for 80’s and 90’s appreciation, but 100+ years in the future is definitely not it.
So about those friends and allies I mentioned. They are a well-drawn bunch, a mix of veterans within the Cavaliers themselves, plus a few friends in high places with other mercenary companies. While Jim is the main character, with most of the story taking place from his viewpoint, these side characters are just as important to the narrative. Without their support and tutelage, Jim would never have made it as a merc commander. And even though we don’t spend even nearly enough time with some of them, they become fixtures in the tale. There’s more than a few characters that I am hoping to see more of in the future books. One of the things I really loved about the way the story unfolded is that, even though they may be competing for contracts at times, the human mercenary companies have an unspoken bond, and they look out for each other in various ways. The few characters we meet from other merc companies are invariably interesting and unique, so I always wanted to know more about them. Sadly, I was left wanting, but I know that they will have bigger roles to play as the
narrative moves forward and expands.
But enough about the characterizations…we’re here for mech combat, right!? Right! And suffice it to say, Cartwright’s Cavaliers does not disappoint with the battle scenes. From ground assaults to space battles, Mark Wandrey fills the pages with enough warfare to satisfy hardcore fans for the genre. The mechs that Cartwright’s Cavaliers pilot may be older models, but they are still incredibly effective, especially with a skilled pilot behind the controls. The tactics used seem mostly sound, as despite being heavily armed and armored, the CASPer suits are not all-powerful, meaning the pilots have to be careful and constantly aware of the battle going on around them. I love the fact that tactics still rules the day here, even with super powerful battle armor, as ultimately it’s the person wielding the weapon that determines the outcome, not necessarily the weapon itself. Some stories I’ve read just have these all-powerful weapons that change the course of battle just by existing, but that’s generally not how things actually go. It doesn’t matter how effective your weapon is; if you don’t utilize it properly, it will not achieve the desired result. So our human mercs have to strategize and scheme in order to survive many of the engagements. This gritty adherence to basic combat rules helped the fights feel authentic, dangerous, and unpredictable. Which, you know, it how battle should be.
Sadly, not everything is as well done as the combat. Like I said earlier, there are more than a few coincidences (plot contrivances), and they range from acceptable to “saw that coming a mile away”. I understand the basic need for a little luck every now and again, but some of the major happenings in this book simply happen because someone screwed up at their job (but it turned out for the best), or some last minute deus-ex-machina just happened to materialize. It took some of the hard-earned progress away from our characters, and had me asking “seriously!?” more than a few times.
And then there’s Splunk. It’s hard to talk about Splunk without going into MAJOR spoilers, but we’ll just say that I have a love/hate relationship with the character. She’s adorably alien and immensely entertaining, which is what she was written to be, and it’s hard to not smile at her antics and her relationship with Jim. On the other hand however…she’s just way too convenient and gifted. There’s not even really a lead-in or buildup to how amazing she is. She just shows up, dials up the amazeballs to 11, and is suddenly Jim’s best friend and portable problem solver all in one. She’s like the treecats from David Weber’s Honor Harrington universe, but more with more technical know-how and a more hands-on approach to fixing things. Now Splunk is an integral part of the story, and there’s definitely more coming with her character and her species in general, but I would have liked Jim to have had to earn her trust and companionship a little more than he did. Which is to say, he didn’t earn it at all; she just shows up and they’re instant BFF’s. I feel there should have been a much more protracted reveal of just how useful Splunk could be. Jim doesn’t earn her companionship as a character (aside from being nice, he doesn’t do much for her), and we don’t earn it as an audience. Still, she’s adorable and spunky, so most criticisms against her just wilt away when up against that level of “awwwwwwww!”. It would be like being annoyed with a particularly cuddly and non-stinky ferret…you just can’t help but smile at their antics and curiosity.
Now I could say that I enjoyed Cartwright’s Cavaliers as much as I did because my expectations were low going in. But that would be a lie, as well as a disservice to Mark Wandrey and the story he is telling. This is an above-average book about men and mecha, with entertaining combat scenes and an enjoyable, and refreshing, apolitical look at a future where mankind has colonized the stars (and met many new alien species along the way). Aside from a clunky first chapter, I was thoroughly entertained, and will definitely be seeking out the other books in this series in the future!
First, credit where credit is due; though he may not always flesh out the various other races and species within his tale, Mark Wandrey has established a rich and interesting universe in which this story takes place. It’s sort of like the Battletech universe actually, with humanity spread across the stars, and with various mercenary companies as a stand in for the great Houses. War is business in this story…and business is good. From garrison duty to full-scale assaults, and from small engagements to planet-wide battles, mercenary companies have replaced standing armies/navies, and are now the de-facto source for any situation that requires force and/or security. It’s a natural extension of the PMC stories that were super popular a few years ago, and Mr. Wandrey sells it well.
Despite certain elements of the story being a bit derivative at times, and more than a few “lucky break” plot contrivances, Cartwright’s Cavaliers is a solid start to a promising science fiction war series. I’m already itching to get started on book two, but other obligations will likely keep me from it for the short term.
As with all my reviews, I will attempt to keep spoilers to a minimum. Even a story about big metal mechs beating the crap out of things still deserves to be enjoyed without knowing the play-by-play ahead of time. If it’s not mentioned in the official book synopsis, then I will do my level best to avoid mentioning it here.
Aside from a few cutaways to ancillary characters, Cartwright’s Cavaliers is a single POV third-person affair, following the heir apparent of the titular Cavaliers, one of the 4 largest and most influential human mercenary companies. Jim Cartwright is nobody’s idea of a hero, himself included. While he has the mental chops and the general business acumen to run the company, his youth, lack of practical experience, and abysmal physical fitness scores have everyone doubting his ability. After all, mercenary work is physical work, and the Cartwright Cavaliers have a history of their commander being “boots on the ground” with the troops. Which is going to be quite a struggle for Jim, as unlike his father Thaddeus, he’s quite overweight and beyond clumsy. Taking ownership of the virtually defunct company after his mother ran it into the ground, Jim has one hell of an uphill battle ahead of him in restoring the Cavaliers to greatness, building a name for himself, and trying to find a way to stand apart from his father’s rather long shadow.
Jim is a rather strange character, and as far from leading man material as you can get. Which, in a way, is rather refreshing. We already have countless stories of dashing space jockeys winning the day (and the hearts of the leading ladies) without breaking a sweat. It’s actually refreshing to see a character that sweats quite a lot, even doing basic things. He is, in a way, somewhat like the Harry Potter of this universe. Surrounded by good friends and powerful allies, he nevertheless takes much of the responsibility upon himself, determined to learn and grow, despite not being this amazingly great person that everyone expects him to be given his lineage. And he definitely learns and grows as the story progresses. Through hard work and frequent mistakes, Jim gradually becomes a man in his own right, and because of the struggles he undergoes, it feels earned.
But not all is puppy sneezes and unicorn farts with Jim. Like so many other characters in books & movies these days, Jim is obsessed with the culture of the late 20th century. Believe me, I get the appeal of 80’s movies and 90’s music and toys. But that’s because I grew up through those times, so I have a firsthand appreciation and a nostalgic history. I find it rather hard to believe that over 100 years in the future, these things still have enough appeal that an 18 year old obsesses over them. But Jim has a Rainbow Dash pony in his mech, wears a vintage “Half Life” t-shirt, and blares “Let the Bodies Hit the Floor” by Drowning Pool, because somehow these things still resonate that far in the future. Dude…Drowning Pool…really? Hell, I even have the album on my iPod, and I hardly ever listen to it. And some young kid from the future uses it as his war song? Nope. Just…nope. There’s a time and a place for 80’s and 90’s appreciation, but 100+ years in the future is definitely not it.
So about those friends and allies I mentioned. They are a well-drawn bunch, a mix of veterans within the Cavaliers themselves, plus a few friends in high places with other mercenary companies. While Jim is the main character, with most of the story taking place from his viewpoint, these side characters are just as important to the narrative. Without their support and tutelage, Jim would never have made it as a merc commander. And even though we don’t spend even nearly enough time with some of them, they become fixtures in the tale. There’s more than a few characters that I am hoping to see more of in the future books. One of the things I really loved about the way the story unfolded is that, even though they may be competing for contracts at times, the human mercenary companies have an unspoken bond, and they look out for each other in various ways. The few characters we meet from other merc companies are invariably interesting and unique, so I always wanted to know more about them. Sadly, I was left wanting, but I know that they will have bigger roles to play as the
narrative moves forward and expands.
But enough about the characterizations…we’re here for mech combat, right!? Right! And suffice it to say, Cartwright’s Cavaliers does not disappoint with the battle scenes. From ground assaults to space battles, Mark Wandrey fills the pages with enough warfare to satisfy hardcore fans for the genre. The mechs that Cartwright’s Cavaliers pilot may be older models, but they are still incredibly effective, especially with a skilled pilot behind the controls. The tactics used seem mostly sound, as despite being heavily armed and armored, the CASPer suits are not all-powerful, meaning the pilots have to be careful and constantly aware of the battle going on around them. I love the fact that tactics still rules the day here, even with super powerful battle armor, as ultimately it’s the person wielding the weapon that determines the outcome, not necessarily the weapon itself. Some stories I’ve read just have these all-powerful weapons that change the course of battle just by existing, but that’s generally not how things actually go. It doesn’t matter how effective your weapon is; if you don’t utilize it properly, it will not achieve the desired result. So our human mercs have to strategize and scheme in order to survive many of the engagements. This gritty adherence to basic combat rules helped the fights feel authentic, dangerous, and unpredictable. Which, you know, it how battle should be.
Sadly, not everything is as well done as the combat. Like I said earlier, there are more than a few coincidences (plot contrivances), and they range from acceptable to “saw that coming a mile away”. I understand the basic need for a little luck every now and again, but some of the major happenings in this book simply happen because someone screwed up at their job (but it turned out for the best), or some last minute deus-ex-machina just happened to materialize. It took some of the hard-earned progress away from our characters, and had me asking “seriously!?” more than a few times.
And then there’s Splunk. It’s hard to talk about Splunk without going into MAJOR spoilers, but we’ll just say that I have a love/hate relationship with the character. She’s adorably alien and immensely entertaining, which is what she was written to be, and it’s hard to not smile at her antics and her relationship with Jim. On the other hand however…she’s just way too convenient and gifted. There’s not even really a lead-in or buildup to how amazing she is. She just shows up, dials up the amazeballs to 11, and is suddenly Jim’s best friend and portable problem solver all in one. She’s like the treecats from David Weber’s Honor Harrington universe, but more with more technical know-how and a more hands-on approach to fixing things. Now Splunk is an integral part of the story, and there’s definitely more coming with her character and her species in general, but I would have liked Jim to have had to earn her trust and companionship a little more than he did. Which is to say, he didn’t earn it at all; she just shows up and they’re instant BFF’s. I feel there should have been a much more protracted reveal of just how useful Splunk could be. Jim doesn’t earn her companionship as a character (aside from being nice, he doesn’t do much for her), and we don’t earn it as an audience. Still, she’s adorable and spunky, so most criticisms against her just wilt away when up against that level of “awwwwwwww!”. It would be like being annoyed with a particularly cuddly and non-stinky ferret…you just can’t help but smile at their antics and curiosity.
Now I could say that I enjoyed Cartwright’s Cavaliers as much as I did because my expectations were low going in. But that would be a lie, as well as a disservice to Mark Wandrey and the story he is telling. This is an above-average book about men and mecha, with entertaining combat scenes and an enjoyable, and refreshing, apolitical look at a future where mankind has colonized the stars (and met many new alien species along the way). Aside from a clunky first chapter, I was thoroughly entertained, and will definitely be seeking out the other books in this series in the future!
March 23, 2017
Okay so the premise is pretty decent here...the writing a bit amaturish as to be expected, and this was probably on track for a stronger 2...but something kept popping up over and over and over again...which was 20th and 21st century pop culture references. They were so over the top cringey I got frustrated every-time they came up. It didn't help that it just kept getting more and more unbelivable and eye-rolly as everyone who didn't like the character was bad, and everyone who did was good. Also the main character suceeding without really actually ever learning anything and developing, which needed to happen.
July 10, 2018
Normally, when you stay up until 2 am in the morning reading a book it is a good thing. For me and Cartwright's Cavaliers, it was more akin to a little kid eating their vegetables before they can get dessert: it was something I just wanted to get over with so I could move on to something better.
This book seems to have a bit of an identity crisis in that much of it reads like a young adult novel. This wouldn't be a problem (many popular books are YA) except that it makes the parts that don't read like a YA novel jarring and out of place. That, along with other things, make me feel like the book could have used another good editing pass (I thought there were a few action scenes where exclamation points might have been a bit overused! Also, are those things in quotation marks sound effects, or is the character yelling "BOOM!" and "whack whack crunch!"?).
Just didn't do it for me. Will not pursue the series past here.
This book seems to have a bit of an identity crisis in that much of it reads like a young adult novel. This wouldn't be a problem (many popular books are YA) except that it makes the parts that don't read like a YA novel jarring and out of place. That, along with other things, make me feel like the book could have used another good editing pass (I thought there were a few action scenes where exclamation points might have been a bit overused! Also, are those things in quotation marks sound effects, or is the character yelling "BOOM!" and "whack whack crunch!"?).
Just didn't do it for me. Will not pursue the series past here.
February 7, 2017
Very Good Military Space Opera Novel
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
This is a great military space opera novel. It is the first time I have read a novel by Mark Wandrey, and I am really impressed with the quality of his writing. The story starts out in a seemingly predictable YA fashion, with an eighteen year old protagonist. Just when I thought that the storyline was predictable, Wandrey veers off into a new creative direction. I thoroughly enjoyed the novel. It looks like it is the start of a series, and I look forward to reading more!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
This is a great military space opera novel. It is the first time I have read a novel by Mark Wandrey, and I am really impressed with the quality of his writing. The story starts out in a seemingly predictable YA fashion, with an eighteen year old protagonist. Just when I thought that the storyline was predictable, Wandrey veers off into a new creative direction. I thoroughly enjoyed the novel. It looks like it is the start of a series, and I look forward to reading more!
January 16, 2017
Decent, Fun, But A Little "Too Cutesy" and Borderline YA
"Cartwright's Cavaliers," is a decent, fun, quick read. There is a major issue in that by being "too cutesy," with his main character, the author dangerously borders on "young adult" (YA) SciFi and being sickening sweet. Also, numerous repetitions, along with proofreading errors, while listing two (2) [sic] editors, makes one wonder: where were they during the editing process?
The storyline is a couple centuries hence, humanity is out and about in the teeming with life Galaxy. Earth has maintained its various governments and joined a loosely-run "Union." The main (and pretty much sole) economic product Earth peddles to other galactic, sentient species is mercenary ("merc") companies. The scion of one of the primary merc companies, takes it over as a young adult, following its bankruptcy, under his widowed and amoral mother. The lad brings the "Cavaliers" back from the brink of extinction, by banding with trusted lieutenants, and fulfilling a few initial contracts against great odds.
The action moves quickly, without much difficulty. The scion, an overweight, fat obsessed, angst driven, self pitying eighteen year old, who ships out with "My Little Ponies" stuffed animals (one of the sickening sweet "cute" devices), proves to have more spine and determination than he realized. He was also born under a incredible "lucky star," given the author's various subplots successful endings.
The eBook is recommended and was fully read via Kindle Unlimited.
"Cartwright's Cavaliers," is a decent, fun, quick read. There is a major issue in that by being "too cutesy," with his main character, the author dangerously borders on "young adult" (YA) SciFi and being sickening sweet. Also, numerous repetitions, along with proofreading errors, while listing two (2) [sic] editors, makes one wonder: where were they during the editing process?
The storyline is a couple centuries hence, humanity is out and about in the teeming with life Galaxy. Earth has maintained its various governments and joined a loosely-run "Union." The main (and pretty much sole) economic product Earth peddles to other galactic, sentient species is mercenary ("merc") companies. The scion of one of the primary merc companies, takes it over as a young adult, following its bankruptcy, under his widowed and amoral mother. The lad brings the "Cavaliers" back from the brink of extinction, by banding with trusted lieutenants, and fulfilling a few initial contracts against great odds.
The action moves quickly, without much difficulty. The scion, an overweight, fat obsessed, angst driven, self pitying eighteen year old, who ships out with "My Little Ponies" stuffed animals (one of the sickening sweet "cute" devices), proves to have more spine and determination than he realized. He was also born under a incredible "lucky star," given the author's various subplots successful endings.
The eBook is recommended and was fully read via Kindle Unlimited.
February 1, 2017
Great
I was not sure when I selected this book how it work be but I am so glad I did!! It started out a little slow and then speeded up until it was like a run away train!! Can't wait to read the next one!
I was not sure when I selected this book how it work be but I am so glad I did!! It started out a little slow and then speeded up until it was like a run away train!! Can't wait to read the next one!
September 10, 2017
An overweight brony (yes really) inherits his father's space mercenary company. It's terrible. I read it as a prime lending book and still feel ripped off.
July 22, 2022
Review to come
February 3, 2018
This is a very simplistic 'earth mercenary companies rule the universe' offering. The main character is different and the hardship/setback is a bit different then most. The characters are somewhat bland and one dimensional. The setting could develop into a solid entry into space cultures and the twist offers some original ground to explore.
It moves fast but did have some awkward moments other, similar entries dont offer. Its also not the usual pessimist/war weary mercenary fare either. Ill read the 2nd book and see if it continues to develop.
Edit: I fixed a typo.
It moves fast but did have some awkward moments other, similar entries dont offer. Its also not the usual pessimist/war weary mercenary fare either. Ill read the 2nd book and see if it continues to develop.
Edit: I fixed a typo.
February 3, 2017
Great Start
This tale is begging for some movie making mogul to script it into an action packed, CGI loaded block buster! A likeable hero, a skilled older and wiser sidekick, and a cast of heroes to do heroic battles with alien monsters. PLUS a magical little buddy to get into/out of tight spots AND a sexy girlfriend to take care of him.
Grab a copy an' git to reading. This really is one you don't want to miss.
This tale is begging for some movie making mogul to script it into an action packed, CGI loaded block buster! A likeable hero, a skilled older and wiser sidekick, and a cast of heroes to do heroic battles with alien monsters. PLUS a magical little buddy to get into/out of tight spots AND a sexy girlfriend to take care of him.
Grab a copy an' git to reading. This really is one you don't want to miss.
January 8, 2022
Utterly standard schlock space marine stuff except... for the My Little Pony references. I didn't care at first, the main character just mentions that he has a collection of vintage toys, but then it starts to take over the narrative. You realize that the big 4 mercenary companies are horse themed as a reference. The main character literally risks dying to recover a stuffed MLP on the battlefield. Ridiculous.
dnf
September 20, 2017I started reading this one, eyes-on-the-page (not audio), a few weeks ago. I got about 20% in, but it just didn't hold my interest. Pedestrian prose and an obvious fat-geek-boy-wish-fulfillment sort of plot. But I know it's popular right now, and there's an audio version, so I may try it again in audio one of these days.
January 26, 2017
Wow
That was incredible! I laughed so hard during the mech battle I was crying. This was a complete surprise and if your other novels are half as good as this one, it should be a sweet ride. Thank you very much.
That was incredible! I laughed so hard during the mech battle I was crying. This was a complete surprise and if your other novels are half as good as this one, it should be a sweet ride. Thank you very much.
February 20, 2017
Very well done
I take advantage of Kindle Unlimited to read a lot of space opera. Most is mediocre at best. This was great. Nice twists. Interesting background environment. Looking forward to book two.
I take advantage of Kindle Unlimited to read a lot of space opera. Most is mediocre at best. This was great. Nice twists. Interesting background environment. Looking forward to book two.
May 17, 2020
Excellent!
Great start to a new series with a good world build, likeable characters and great tech. Exciting and fun combat. All in all I highly recommend this title.
Great start to a new series with a good world build, likeable characters and great tech. Exciting and fun combat. All in all I highly recommend this title.
March 11, 2017
Good read
Except for the four letter words a good book to read if you go for si fi. Look for more of this authors work to read.
Except for the four letter words a good book to read if you go for si fi. Look for more of this authors work to read.
September 29, 2017
Was kind of okay, wasn't a big fan of how the hero was a overweight brony but I'm sure some people will like that aspect.
November 24, 2018
Fun easy read.
November 22, 2018
A veritable rainbow.....dash.
Thrown in at the deep end, Jim Cartwright has his work cut out bringing the Cavaliers back, considering what a mess his mother left behind and that he's only 18 years old.
I like that he has issues, and actually has to struggle to overcome them. I also like the ships, suits, fighting, blowing stuff up, and the mercs themselves. Also...Splunk!
Thrown in at the deep end, Jim Cartwright has his work cut out bringing the Cavaliers back, considering what a mess his mother left behind and that he's only 18 years old.
I like that he has issues, and actually has to struggle to overcome them. I also like the ships, suits, fighting, blowing stuff up, and the mercs themselves. Also...Splunk!
March 20, 2019
What military science fiction is supposed to be.....
Cartwright’s Cavaliers is one of the best military sciences fiction stories to come along in a long time. It also is a coming of age story for a young man who is suddenly thrust into command (with guidance from more experienced Cavaliers) but has to prove himself in battle before the line troops will accept him.
Jim Cartwright is the scion of the late Thaddeus Cartwright. His father was the leader of the family mercenary unit, Cartwright’s Cavaliers, one of the Four Horseman group of merc units. He also is totally out of shape and his not confidence in himself.
Suddenly he finds the person in charge of the Cavaliers after his mother has stripped the Cavaliers bare and forced it into bankruptcy.
After Jim graduates high school he finds out he is bankrupt and is left with no assets. That is until he finds out he is the beneficiary of a will from the founder of Cartwright’s Cavaliers that leaves the Cartwright Historical Association to him.
When he arrives at the Cartwright Historical Association he finds a caretaker who turns out to be from the Cavaliers along with the equipment that was collected by the Historical Association. Using the equipment that has been collected by the Historical Association and kept in working order he and his mentors are able to reconstitute Cartwright’s Cavaliers to once more become a functioning mere unit.
This where the military science fiction starts. With help of the caretaker and some other current and former Cavalier mercy Jim obtains a commission that is supposed to be easy in order to build up credits.
While the Cavaliers are being reconstituted Jim begins to transmogrify from an out of shape, over-weight young man with low self-esteem and confidence to the Cartwright’s Cavalier commander as well as finding he really is Cartwright. He finds he is able to plan and participate in military actions on other planets as well as innately pickling the correct course of action for his merc unit. He also gets to make planet landings in drop ships.
The book is fast paced and from a military standpoint runs true to what could take place in a merc unit. You will be rooting for Jim Cartwright and his mercs. Jim is able to continue on when one of several of his close friends and mentors who have helped guide him are lost.
In short if you are looking for a military science fiction book that rings true and will keep you thoroughly engaged in turning pages this is the book for you.
Cartwright’s Cavaliers is one of the best military sciences fiction stories to come along in a long time. It also is a coming of age story for a young man who is suddenly thrust into command (with guidance from more experienced Cavaliers) but has to prove himself in battle before the line troops will accept him.
Jim Cartwright is the scion of the late Thaddeus Cartwright. His father was the leader of the family mercenary unit, Cartwright’s Cavaliers, one of the Four Horseman group of merc units. He also is totally out of shape and his not confidence in himself.
Suddenly he finds the person in charge of the Cavaliers after his mother has stripped the Cavaliers bare and forced it into bankruptcy.
After Jim graduates high school he finds out he is bankrupt and is left with no assets. That is until he finds out he is the beneficiary of a will from the founder of Cartwright’s Cavaliers that leaves the Cartwright Historical Association to him.
When he arrives at the Cartwright Historical Association he finds a caretaker who turns out to be from the Cavaliers along with the equipment that was collected by the Historical Association. Using the equipment that has been collected by the Historical Association and kept in working order he and his mentors are able to reconstitute Cartwright’s Cavaliers to once more become a functioning mere unit.
This where the military science fiction starts. With help of the caretaker and some other current and former Cavalier mercy Jim obtains a commission that is supposed to be easy in order to build up credits.
While the Cavaliers are being reconstituted Jim begins to transmogrify from an out of shape, over-weight young man with low self-esteem and confidence to the Cartwright’s Cavalier commander as well as finding he really is Cartwright. He finds he is able to plan and participate in military actions on other planets as well as innately pickling the correct course of action for his merc unit. He also gets to make planet landings in drop ships.
The book is fast paced and from a military standpoint runs true to what could take place in a merc unit. You will be rooting for Jim Cartwright and his mercs. Jim is able to continue on when one of several of his close friends and mentors who have helped guide him are lost.
In short if you are looking for a military science fiction book that rings true and will keep you thoroughly engaged in turning pages this is the book for you.
July 30, 2017
Papa Pat Rambles (http://habakkuk21.blogspot.com/2017/0...) has an expanded and extended perspective on the book.
Shortly before the time the story begins, the aliens landed. We discovered they had a LOT of things that they wanted, but we didn't have much to give them in return. It was a bad thing.
Then, we found out that fighting was a rare skill, and various alien groups would happily hire humans to break things and kill people. Unfortunately, most of the jobs were sucker bets, and only FOUR of the first 100 groups of human mercenaries returned. It happened that all of them featured a horse on their insignia, so the groups became known as the Four Horsemen.
The greatest of these groups was Cartwright's Cavaliers. Through luck, hard work, luck, integrity, and luck, they became a dominant force in the industry. Thaddeus Cartwright was the commander of one of the grandest enterprises in human history, until his luck ran out, leaving elementary school-aged son Jim as the heir.
For reasons not clear to me, Jim's mother set out on a course that destroyed the mercenary company. Assets were squandered, contracts entered into without regard to profitability, and by the time young Jin turned 18, his inheritance was worth less than zero. A considerate judge allowed him a trifle which would keep him from starving for a bit.
If that weren't enough, Jim was NOT qualified for the life of a mercenary. To be blunt, he was obese, and rather uncoordinated as well. He had covertly had brain implants installed, so knowledge was easier for him to acquire, but he knew that without experience, he was pretty much good at turning pizza into solid waste, and that was it.
He needed a break, and after all the bashing he took as the lawyers broke his father's company to shreds, he really deserved one, as well. When the opportunity essentially dropped out of the sky on him, he was ready.
What follkows is some great scenes of exploding spaceships against the background of character development. Maybe it's the other way around, but it doesn't matter; the elements of smashing great adventure are all there. Detractors may whine at the failure to consider horticulture as an acceptable alternative for an obese teen, or the appalling assumption that under-utilized humans will turn to crime, or the tendency of volcanos to erupt at inconvenient moments, but these are merely the quibbles of people who haven't gotten a nice nap recently. For everyone else, this is a great place to start reading the adventures of the Four Horsemen
Shortly before the time the story begins, the aliens landed. We discovered they had a LOT of things that they wanted, but we didn't have much to give them in return. It was a bad thing.
Then, we found out that fighting was a rare skill, and various alien groups would happily hire humans to break things and kill people. Unfortunately, most of the jobs were sucker bets, and only FOUR of the first 100 groups of human mercenaries returned. It happened that all of them featured a horse on their insignia, so the groups became known as the Four Horsemen.
The greatest of these groups was Cartwright's Cavaliers. Through luck, hard work, luck, integrity, and luck, they became a dominant force in the industry. Thaddeus Cartwright was the commander of one of the grandest enterprises in human history, until his luck ran out, leaving elementary school-aged son Jim as the heir.
For reasons not clear to me, Jim's mother set out on a course that destroyed the mercenary company. Assets were squandered, contracts entered into without regard to profitability, and by the time young Jin turned 18, his inheritance was worth less than zero. A considerate judge allowed him a trifle which would keep him from starving for a bit.
If that weren't enough, Jim was NOT qualified for the life of a mercenary. To be blunt, he was obese, and rather uncoordinated as well. He had covertly had brain implants installed, so knowledge was easier for him to acquire, but he knew that without experience, he was pretty much good at turning pizza into solid waste, and that was it.
He needed a break, and after all the bashing he took as the lawyers broke his father's company to shreds, he really deserved one, as well. When the opportunity essentially dropped out of the sky on him, he was ready.
What follkows is some great scenes of exploding spaceships against the background of character development. Maybe it's the other way around, but it doesn't matter; the elements of smashing great adventure are all there. Detractors may whine at the failure to consider horticulture as an acceptable alternative for an obese teen, or the appalling assumption that under-utilized humans will turn to crime, or the tendency of volcanos to erupt at inconvenient moments, but these are merely the quibbles of people who haven't gotten a nice nap recently. For everyone else, this is a great place to start reading the adventures of the Four Horsemen
July 15, 2017
Jim Cartwright, only heir of the Cartwright family, founders of the legendary mercenary company Cartwright's Cavaliers, is a huge disppointment. He is super smart, but is not exactly what you'd call a physical specimen. When he gets such low physical scores on his school testing that he basically has to give up the idea of ever being a Merc, he gets the real bad news. The company is broke. His mother, who took over after his father dies, has run the company into bankruptcy.
Jim is left with a mountain of debt and no prospects, until his family lawyer approaches him and lets him in on the family legacy his mother couldnt touch. There was a rainy day trust of equipment and funds for upkeep for historical purposes. Jim decides to reform the Cavaliers, and he and some of the old timers who were with the company start off with some small contracts where Jim can get his feet wet and learn on the job as Colonel of the Cavaliers.
They end up taking on a contract that turns into a much more deadly job than they could have ever imagined. Jim and the Cavaliers end up facing a much larger and dealy force of opposing merc forces and Jim's trial by fire gets him separated from his forces, and he makes some crucial discoveries on the planet as he tries to get back to his troops. The final climactic battle for the planet shows jim's mettle, and shows if he has the heart of a Cartwright. There are also hints of an overarching conpiracy that goes much deeper than what Jim and the Cavaliers are dealing with.
This book is the first in a shared universe series. The second book is by Chris Kennedy. You can tell that each book will set up the next, leaving setup points throughout. The plot is fast paced, the characters are interesting, and the universe is fully realized, with a wide variety of alien races. The battle scenes are really well drawn out and really get the adrenaline pumping. I can't wait to see where this series goes next.
Jim is left with a mountain of debt and no prospects, until his family lawyer approaches him and lets him in on the family legacy his mother couldnt touch. There was a rainy day trust of equipment and funds for upkeep for historical purposes. Jim decides to reform the Cavaliers, and he and some of the old timers who were with the company start off with some small contracts where Jim can get his feet wet and learn on the job as Colonel of the Cavaliers.
They end up taking on a contract that turns into a much more deadly job than they could have ever imagined. Jim and the Cavaliers end up facing a much larger and dealy force of opposing merc forces and Jim's trial by fire gets him separated from his forces, and he makes some crucial discoveries on the planet as he tries to get back to his troops. The final climactic battle for the planet shows jim's mettle, and shows if he has the heart of a Cartwright. There are also hints of an overarching conpiracy that goes much deeper than what Jim and the Cavaliers are dealing with.
This book is the first in a shared universe series. The second book is by Chris Kennedy. You can tell that each book will set up the next, leaving setup points throughout. The plot is fast paced, the characters are interesting, and the universe is fully realized, with a wide variety of alien races. The battle scenes are really well drawn out and really get the adrenaline pumping. I can't wait to see where this series goes next.
March 12, 2019
The book starts out really strong. The main character is the scion of a powerful family. The Cartwrights control one of the most storied mercenary companies in history. They have the best tech, the most elite soldiers, and a killer brand. Unfortunately, after his father's death the company has been driven into the ground due to poor management. The first couple chapters follow the bankruptcy of the company. The protagonist is living in a shitty motel, eating crappy food, and watching his family's legacy be torn apart by judges and lawyers to feed its creditors. It's sobering. But it's a great setup for a comeback.
Unfortunately, the comeback is way too fast. Everything is just given to the main character. He succeeds as a mercenary because of dumb luck and "bravery." Honestly, it's less being brave and more being too stupid to know better.
The main character is also conveniently a huge fan of early 21st culture, despite living 150 years in the future. It's like someone being a huge fan of the 1870's now. That's just... weird. He references Leeroy Jenkins and is a brony. He keeps his Rainbow Dash pony close at hand at all times and frequently watches the show or makes references. He's also obese and hates his mom.
I definitely enjoyed the technology used in the world. I think the prose is good and the pacing is strong. I just think the main character is weirdly obsessed with anachronistic pop culture references and a bit of a Mary Sue.
Unfortunately, the comeback is way too fast. Everything is just given to the main character. He succeeds as a mercenary because of dumb luck and "bravery." Honestly, it's less being brave and more being too stupid to know better.
The main character is also conveniently a huge fan of early 21st culture, despite living 150 years in the future. It's like someone being a huge fan of the 1870's now. That's just... weird. He references Leeroy Jenkins and is a brony. He keeps his Rainbow Dash pony close at hand at all times and frequently watches the show or makes references. He's also obese and hates his mom.
I definitely enjoyed the technology used in the world. I think the prose is good and the pacing is strong. I just think the main character is weirdly obsessed with anachronistic pop culture references and a bit of a Mary Sue.
October 4, 2018
The longer I think about it the more I believe this is a teenage dream come true. Main character is not popular, not a hero type, gets from billions only scraps and receives - with very limited training and no experience whatsoever - the respect and honor from hard mercenaries. Mhhh. Add a hot older girl who for some reason is crazy about him. And to top it off he manages to make the company great again as it was nothing. This feels more like a console game to me and not something I could believe in actually happening. Then a few sexist comments, an absolut fetish for guns and some hidden antigovernment ideas make this a sour experience for me (i.e. the government should not interfere by passing laws against killing but sugar is forbidden?!? - does not work for me).
I liked the action as good and cheap popcorn entertainment and found that the world being built is cool but the aforementioned points make it go down from 4 to 2 stars. And I want to continue this story line but the only thing I see is other stories in this universe. It makes me confused or maybe I just do not get it. I will not continue and even though this series seems to enjoy many fans I will not be one of them.
I liked the action as good and cheap popcorn entertainment and found that the world being built is cool but the aforementioned points make it go down from 4 to 2 stars. And I want to continue this story line but the only thing I see is other stories in this universe. It makes me confused or maybe I just do not get it. I will not continue and even though this series seems to enjoy many fans I will not be one of them.
February 18, 2022
3.5 stars.
This was a fun space opera. I really liked the mechs and the battles with them. The beginning pulled me in right away, and I enjoyed getting to know Jim and sympathized with him. I liked that he was not the typical male protagonist that is usually found in militaristic space operas.
Parts of this had me laughing out loud, particularly the part when Jim jumps onto the tank and everything that ensues. There were also times I wanted to slap him for making really stupid decisions, like exploring the cave instead of waiting where he was, and not realizing he had a radio in the emergency pack. I will say that the romance was a little unbelievable. It seemed like every fat boys dream come true, but it was nice that someone could see him for who he was and not what he looked like.
I really wanted to know more after the epilogue but was disappointed to find out that this is a companion series written by multiple authors, and there is no direct sequel. I doubt I would have stayed with the series through all the books anyway (there are 12), but I could have read one or two more. Since it's a companion series by different authors, I've decided to stop here.
This was a fun space opera. I really liked the mechs and the battles with them. The beginning pulled me in right away, and I enjoyed getting to know Jim and sympathized with him. I liked that he was not the typical male protagonist that is usually found in militaristic space operas.
Parts of this had me laughing out loud, particularly the part when Jim jumps onto the tank and everything that ensues. There were also times I wanted to slap him for making really stupid decisions, like exploring the cave instead of waiting where he was, and not realizing he had a radio in the emergency pack. I will say that the romance was a little unbelievable. It seemed like every fat boys dream come true, but it was nice that someone could see him for who he was and not what he looked like.
I really wanted to know more after the epilogue but was disappointed to find out that this is a companion series written by multiple authors, and there is no direct sequel. I doubt I would have stayed with the series through all the books anyway (there are 12), but I could have read one or two more. Since it's a companion series by different authors, I've decided to stop here.
October 22, 2018
An excellent adventure
Good editing and strong emphasis on character and world building make this a joy to read. One of the first books in the 4 horsemen universe, this book draws you in and makes you want more.
Good editing and strong emphasis on character and world building make this a joy to read. One of the first books in the 4 horsemen universe, this book draws you in and makes you want more.
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