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Kaitan Chronicles #1
Shadow Run
Firefly meets Dune in this action-packed sci-fi adventure about a close-knit found family of a crew navigating a galaxy of political intrigue and resource-driven power games.
Nev has just joined the crew of the starship Kaitan Heritage as the cargo loader. His captain, Qole, is the youngest-ever person to command her own ship, but she brooks no argument from her crew of orphans, fugitives, and con men. Nev can't resist her, even if her ship is an antique.
As for Nev, he's a prince, in hiding on the ship. He believes Qole holds the key to changing galactic civilization, and when her cooperation proves difficult to obtain, Nev resolves to get her to his home planet by any means necessary.
But before they know it, a rival royal family is after Qole, too, and they're more interested in stealing her abilities than in keeping her alive.
Nev's mission to manipulate Qole becomes one to save her, and to survive she'll have to trust her would-be kidnapper. He may be royalty, but Qole is discovering a deep reservoir of power - and stars have mercy on whoever tries to hurt her ship or her crew.
Nev has just joined the crew of the starship Kaitan Heritage as the cargo loader. His captain, Qole, is the youngest-ever person to command her own ship, but she brooks no argument from her crew of orphans, fugitives, and con men. Nev can't resist her, even if her ship is an antique.
As for Nev, he's a prince, in hiding on the ship. He believes Qole holds the key to changing galactic civilization, and when her cooperation proves difficult to obtain, Nev resolves to get her to his home planet by any means necessary.
But before they know it, a rival royal family is after Qole, too, and they're more interested in stealing her abilities than in keeping her alive.
Nev's mission to manipulate Qole becomes one to save her, and to survive she'll have to trust her would-be kidnapper. He may be royalty, but Qole is discovering a deep reservoir of power - and stars have mercy on whoever tries to hurt her ship or her crew.
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First published March 21, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
October 20, 2016
Dear Basra,
I am madly in love with you. I do not care that you are not a main character. Nev might dual-wield his Disruptor Blades and dream of bettering humanity, and Qole might have the lurking madness of Shadow behind her eyes that allows her to SHOOT PURPLE FLAMES FROM HER FINGERTIPS, but you... you are even more badass than them. More badass than purple flames, dear Basra.
I love your brilliant conniving, your devotion to Arjan, your gender-fluidity, your way of sneaking up on people to destroy them with words and masterminding, your secrets, your quiet confidence.
But don't worry, Arjan, I won't steal Basra away from you. Just let me read and re-read of Basra lurking in the background and oozing of badassery, as the badass, ragtag crew of the Shadow-fishing ship the Kaitan adventures across the galaxy into politics and ballroom dancing and experimentation and war.
That will be enough.
With love,
Anna
I am madly in love with you. I do not care that you are not a main character. Nev might dual-wield his Disruptor Blades and dream of bettering humanity, and Qole might have the lurking madness of Shadow behind her eyes that allows her to SHOOT PURPLE FLAMES FROM HER FINGERTIPS, but you... you are even more badass than them. More badass than purple flames, dear Basra.
I love your brilliant conniving, your devotion to Arjan, your gender-fluidity, your way of sneaking up on people to destroy them with words and masterminding, your secrets, your quiet confidence.
But don't worry, Arjan, I won't steal Basra away from you. Just let me read and re-read of Basra lurking in the background and oozing of badassery, as the badass, ragtag crew of the Shadow-fishing ship the Kaitan adventures across the galaxy into politics and ballroom dancing and experimentation and war.
That will be enough.
With love,
Anna
August 20, 2016
I don't have one negative comment to make about this book!!! Lots and lots of action! I think I have not one, but THREE new book boyfriends. Phew! The men in this book are not to be messed with. Loved it!
January 10, 2017
WHOA.
WHAT a start to my 2017 reading. This book is basically everything. The comp titles are FIREFLY and DUNE, but I haven’t watched or read those (I know, I know) so for me, this book is SIX OF CROWS meets STAR WARS.
Like those two, this book is a total blockbuster. The action in this seriously made my jaw drop a few times. It’s all so inventive and cool, and is majorly epic. The battles, you guys! There are so many cool action scenes in this, and they all feel unique and they just keep getting more awesome and badass. They also get really intense as you get attached to the characters, who are then flung into dangerous situations with unlikely odds of survival.
Speaking of, the characters in this are extraordinary. This book is told in dual POV, and I love both equally. There’s Nev, who is a charming space prince. Gah, I love Nev. He’s so kind and tough and also hilarious at times. And then there’s Qole, one of the best captains in the galaxy, who also has an extremely badass ability that some of the most powerful people in the galaxy want to control. SHE IS SO AMAZING. The rest of the crew also shine, and each get multiple moments to show how unique and awesome they are.
And then there’s the romance. No spoilers, but it’s something I wasn’t expecting from this book, but it delivered in in SPADES. I shipped the ship so freaking much.
I think I’ve been gush-ey enough, but yeah. I totally, totally loved spending time with this ragtag group of space badasses, and I need the sequel right now.
WHAT a start to my 2017 reading. This book is basically everything. The comp titles are FIREFLY and DUNE, but I haven’t watched or read those (I know, I know) so for me, this book is SIX OF CROWS meets STAR WARS.
Like those two, this book is a total blockbuster. The action in this seriously made my jaw drop a few times. It’s all so inventive and cool, and is majorly epic. The battles, you guys! There are so many cool action scenes in this, and they all feel unique and they just keep getting more awesome and badass. They also get really intense as you get attached to the characters, who are then flung into dangerous situations with unlikely odds of survival.
Speaking of, the characters in this are extraordinary. This book is told in dual POV, and I love both equally. There’s Nev, who is a charming space prince. Gah, I love Nev. He’s so kind and tough and also hilarious at times. And then there’s Qole, one of the best captains in the galaxy, who also has an extremely badass ability that some of the most powerful people in the galaxy want to control. SHE IS SO AMAZING. The rest of the crew also shine, and each get multiple moments to show how unique and awesome they are.
And then there’s the romance. No spoilers, but it’s something I wasn’t expecting from this book, but it delivered in in SPADES. I shipped the ship so freaking much.
I think I’ve been gush-ey enough, but yeah. I totally, totally loved spending time with this ragtag group of space badasses, and I need the sequel right now.
Read
May 8, 2017DNF
Mini review:
I received this E-ARC via Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was looking forward to reading this. I enjoyed Starflight (another space book) and thought that this would be similar. Unfortunately I didn't enjoy it. I spent the first few chapters absolutely confused. I vaguely understood the Shadow stuff but everything else was lost on me. Definitely just a personal thing as I am not really that well versed in science.
Still recommend.
Mini review:
I received this E-ARC via Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was looking forward to reading this. I enjoyed Starflight (another space book) and thought that this would be similar. Unfortunately I didn't enjoy it. I spent the first few chapters absolutely confused. I vaguely understood the Shadow stuff but everything else was lost on me. Definitely just a personal thing as I am not really that well versed in science.
Still recommend.
December 26, 2018
Edito: la calificación original de este libro era 4 estrellas pero TENGO que bajarle la puntuación. ¿Por qué? Porque un poco más de un año después de leerlo, ni siquiera recordaba haberlo hecho. No me acuerdo de qué se trata, qué me gustó tanto, ni siquiera la sinopsis sirve de disparador. De hecho, entré al verlo entre mis "leídos" para quitarlo, ya que creí que lo había marcado por error. Es muy raro que pase esto, es muy raro que no recuerde una lectura, especialmente una que disfruté. Pero acá estamos. No dudo de que sea un buen libro, mi review original es muy entusiasta y me da curiosidad saber quién es ese Basra del que hablo jaja, pero ciertamente es olvidable.
Review original:
Muy bueno. Algunas cosillas me hicieron ruido y con el nivel de descripción que tiene, el universo podría ser un poquito más rico. Pero la historia está buena y la pluma es súper congruente, tanto que me sorprendí un poco al ver que está escrito por dos personas. No se nota para nada. Se complementan muy bien.
En fin, AMÉ a Basra. Lo amé. Con personajes secundarios como él, ni hacen falta protagonistas jajaja
Review original:
Muy bueno. Algunas cosillas me hicieron ruido y con el nivel de descripción que tiene, el universo podría ser un poquito más rico. Pero la historia está buena y la pluma es súper congruente, tanto que me sorprendí un poco al ver que está escrito por dos personas. No se nota para nada. Se complementan muy bien.
En fin, AMÉ a Basra. Lo amé. Con personajes secundarios como él, ni hacen falta protagonistas jajaja
May 9, 2019
This is actually a re-read for me, which doesn't happen very often but I loved this book, and I'm about to start the second one in the series and wanted to go back and refresh my memory of everything I've forgotten. I enjoyed it just as much the second time around, as I did the first. The ending is just one of my, many favorite parts. Basra really stuck it to Nev's father. That was absolutely priceless! I hope Nev and Qole manage to beat the odds and find a way to continue their burgeoning romance but I can already tell by reading the preview for book two, that they are going to endure quite a bit more, before that happens...
*I received this ARC from Netgalley and the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
*I received this ARC from Netgalley and the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 30, 2017
2* dnf: 33/390
Shitty sci-fi. (I should probably give this more of a chance, but I already hate the characters.) It's duo perspective by a guy and a girl. Their personalities are both so angsty it's gross. It says in the summary that there is going to be a romance and it already feels forced as they got into a fight. It's "hate to love". So dumb, so obvious.
Shitty sci-fi. (I should probably give this more of a chance, but I already hate the characters.) It's duo perspective by a guy and a girl. Their personalities are both so angsty it's gross. It says in the summary that there is going to be a romance and it already feels forced as they got into a fight. It's "hate to love". So dumb, so obvious.
Want to read
March 7, 2017This was described by Jay Kristoff as "kinda like FIREFLY had an illegitimate lovechild with DUNE". Well that's me sold!
March 26, 2017
I'm not going to lie, I am always so delighted when I find a Science Fiction novel that is accessible and exciting! I had high hopes for Shadow Run, and I wasn't disappointed in the slightest. The Kaitan Heritage is a ship after my own heart. Cobbled together, barely holding on, and full of the most loyal and intriguing set of people there ever was! I remember seeing somewhere that this book was likened to Firefly and Dune. Yes, friends, that is entirely accurate. A little bit of love, a dash of danger, and a whole lot of sarcasm and wit. That's what you'll find between these pages.
First off, massive kudos to the authors for crafting as captivating a character as Captain Qole. At just 17 years old, she's the best Shadow fishing captain in the Universe. But that's not where her intrigue ends. Qole is also poisoned by the very thing that both makes up her livelihood, and makes her such an excellent captain. It's a compelling double-edged sword. What I loved most about her character though, was how self-assured and bad-ass she was. Qole doesn't need your admiration. She's strong, loyal, and full of a kind of fierce love that made me fall for her instantly. I love seeing forceful women in positions of power. Qole doesn't disappoint.
Better still, Nev's entrance into this story didn't dim Qole's light one bit. In fact, Nev is a beautiful contrast to Qole's dark and resolute personality. See, Nev is ever the optimist. He's both tough as nails and has a heart that is fit to burst with pride for his family. His quick thinking and kindness make him the perfect opposite to Qole, and watching them interact is honestly a lot of fun. I never felt like the tension brewing between them was overbearing and the little romance that may have existed just felt like it belonged. Color me impressed.
The absolute only reason I wasn't able to give this a full five-star rating is because the climax felt a little rushed. The first three-quarters of this book are perfectly paced. There is world-building galore, time for our characters to grow and understand one another, plus even the perfect amount of action to keep things fresh. As the book neared the end, I felt like it was rushing to push everything still left undone in order. Which, to be honest, I can totally understand. It makes me happy to know that there's another book coming after this one. I absolutely cannot wait to read it!
You need to meet the ragtag crew of the Kaitan. Plain and simple. If Shadow Run isn't already on your wishlist, put it there.
First off, massive kudos to the authors for crafting as captivating a character as Captain Qole. At just 17 years old, she's the best Shadow fishing captain in the Universe. But that's not where her intrigue ends. Qole is also poisoned by the very thing that both makes up her livelihood, and makes her such an excellent captain. It's a compelling double-edged sword. What I loved most about her character though, was how self-assured and bad-ass she was. Qole doesn't need your admiration. She's strong, loyal, and full of a kind of fierce love that made me fall for her instantly. I love seeing forceful women in positions of power. Qole doesn't disappoint.
Better still, Nev's entrance into this story didn't dim Qole's light one bit. In fact, Nev is a beautiful contrast to Qole's dark and resolute personality. See, Nev is ever the optimist. He's both tough as nails and has a heart that is fit to burst with pride for his family. His quick thinking and kindness make him the perfect opposite to Qole, and watching them interact is honestly a lot of fun. I never felt like the tension brewing between them was overbearing and the little romance that may have existed just felt like it belonged. Color me impressed.
The absolute only reason I wasn't able to give this a full five-star rating is because the climax felt a little rushed. The first three-quarters of this book are perfectly paced. There is world-building galore, time for our characters to grow and understand one another, plus even the perfect amount of action to keep things fresh. As the book neared the end, I felt like it was rushing to push everything still left undone in order. Which, to be honest, I can totally understand. It makes me happy to know that there's another book coming after this one. I absolutely cannot wait to read it!
You need to meet the ragtag crew of the Kaitan. Plain and simple. If Shadow Run isn't already on your wishlist, put it there.
April 10, 2017
I always enjoy experiencing new authors and since this was a science fiction book compared to Firefly, why not give it a shot?
I enjoyed the book for the most part. I really liked Qole, Arjan, Eton, Basra and Telu. I thought they were an interesting cast of characters all with their own special gifts and I loved how close knit they were.
I struggled with Nev at times, who is basically the male lead as this book is told from his and Qole's POV. For someone so smart, he could be a bit thick at times when it comes to reality. I guess it isn't completely his fault as it was how he was raised, but even in the end I still struggled with him a bit.
I think I am struggling with this review a bit also.
It's about this world where they use Shadow to run things. There is a group of people that go out of their way and Shadow fish. Unfortunately, because of what the shadow does it eventually drives people mad and it's a bit unstable when it comes to running everything so Nev believes his family can fix that. He needs Qole to submit to some testing, but all of it is for the greater good of everyone, as he assures.
I found the world building lacking at times. I did not understand how they used Shadow to run the things they did. (Maybe I fell asleep during the explanation?) I get it's science fiction, but I found the explanation lacking. Interesting concept, but it felt a little weak without a supporting argument or explanation.
I wanted to know more about the world.
I felt the book was also a bit too long. The chapters weren't quick and I found myself bored or falling asleep half the time. The pacing was way too slow at times. It picked up at the end, but I found myself not really caring. I also had a hard time with the ending because it did not seem plausible to me that 5 people can take on that many people.
Overall. I thought it was a decent read. A little long. The pacing a little too slow at times. But, Qole and her team were fun at times and the loyalty between them was heartwarming.This review was originally posted on Night Owl Book Cafe
I enjoyed the book for the most part. I really liked Qole, Arjan, Eton, Basra and Telu. I thought they were an interesting cast of characters all with their own special gifts and I loved how close knit they were.
I struggled with Nev at times, who is basically the male lead as this book is told from his and Qole's POV. For someone so smart, he could be a bit thick at times when it comes to reality. I guess it isn't completely his fault as it was how he was raised, but even in the end I still struggled with him a bit.
I think I am struggling with this review a bit also.
It's about this world where they use Shadow to run things. There is a group of people that go out of their way and Shadow fish. Unfortunately, because of what the shadow does it eventually drives people mad and it's a bit unstable when it comes to running everything so Nev believes his family can fix that. He needs Qole to submit to some testing, but all of it is for the greater good of everyone, as he assures.
I found the world building lacking at times. I did not understand how they used Shadow to run the things they did. (Maybe I fell asleep during the explanation?) I get it's science fiction, but I found the explanation lacking. Interesting concept, but it felt a little weak without a supporting argument or explanation.
I wanted to know more about the world.
I felt the book was also a bit too long. The chapters weren't quick and I found myself bored or falling asleep half the time. The pacing was way too slow at times. It picked up at the end, but I found myself not really caring. I also had a hard time with the ending because it did not seem plausible to me that 5 people can take on that many people.
Overall. I thought it was a decent read. A little long. The pacing a little too slow at times. But, Qole and her team were fun at times and the loyalty between them was heartwarming.This review was originally posted on Night Owl Book Cafe
April 20, 2017
An exhilarating space opera that will be sure to keep you enamored with its cast of cool/misfit characters, and the constant action that seems to infuse their everyday lives.
-------------------------
Seventeen year old Qole is the youngest person ever from Alaxac to own and captain her own ship, and one of the best when it comes to harnessing shadow, an inky, black substance that is used for its ability to produce massive amounts of energy.
As 'shadow fishers', Qole and her crew are kept busy with catching the shadow and selling it for profit.
It's with the arrival of new crew member, Nev, that things start to get shaken up. Because the mysterious Nev has secrets, and one very big one depends on his convincing Qole that she is the key to some groundbreaking discoveries, which also means he needs to get her to his home planet. With or without her cooperation.
What Nev doesn't count on, is his rivals also finding out about Qole, and wanting her for themselves. Dead or alive.
Neither does he ever think he'd possibly grow to have feelings for her...or that she could possibly be returning them.
But with new dangers now following Qole and her ship, she will have to learn to trust Nev so that she and her crew can survive.
-------------------------
I have a friend to thank for telling me about this book, cause otherwise I would have missed out on the opportunity of going to the authors talk and signing in my city, considering we don't get as many opportunities up here in Alaska...
Anyway, let's move on.
Knowing that the authors are Alaskans, I definitely feel like there were similarities to Alaska, and Alaskan living. For instance, shadow fishing is very reminiscent of commercial fishing, in that they both accumulate large quantities of 'fish', and sell for profit.
Then there's Alaxac itself, which bore many similarities to Alaska, what with its small town living.
Finally, there's the fact that Qole and her brother Arjan who are very much like Native Alaskans, taking from them the heart and strength that comes with survival in rough terrains.
Now for the characters.
Qole and Nev are our MCs; both from very different lives, and both having very different views. But each are passionate when it comes to what they believe, and I really respected that about them. Admittedly, both can be pretty narrow-minded at times, and that can get annoying, but fortunately the good out-weighed the bad, so I still liked them.
The supporting characters aren't given much back story, nor "screen time", but if I had to highlight any of them, it'd probably be Basra, the gender-fluid crew member who specializes in selling the shadow to the best buyers. I think Basra's inclusion in the story definitely shows how hungry readers are for diverse characters. Now, I'm not going to say that because of this, Shadow Run is somehow making history or anything so monumental, but I appreciated it none-the-less, and will likely remember this book more because of this.
Definitely one I'll recommend!
-------------------------
Seventeen year old Qole is the youngest person ever from Alaxac to own and captain her own ship, and one of the best when it comes to harnessing shadow, an inky, black substance that is used for its ability to produce massive amounts of energy.
As 'shadow fishers', Qole and her crew are kept busy with catching the shadow and selling it for profit.
It's with the arrival of new crew member, Nev, that things start to get shaken up. Because the mysterious Nev has secrets, and one very big one depends on his convincing Qole that she is the key to some groundbreaking discoveries, which also means he needs to get her to his home planet. With or without her cooperation.
What Nev doesn't count on, is his rivals also finding out about Qole, and wanting her for themselves. Dead or alive.
Neither does he ever think he'd possibly grow to have feelings for her...or that she could possibly be returning them.
But with new dangers now following Qole and her ship, she will have to learn to trust Nev so that she and her crew can survive.
-------------------------
I have a friend to thank for telling me about this book, cause otherwise I would have missed out on the opportunity of going to the authors talk and signing in my city, considering we don't get as many opportunities up here in Alaska...
Anyway, let's move on.
Knowing that the authors are Alaskans, I definitely feel like there were similarities to Alaska, and Alaskan living. For instance, shadow fishing is very reminiscent of commercial fishing, in that they both accumulate large quantities of 'fish', and sell for profit.
Then there's Alaxac itself, which bore many similarities to Alaska, what with its small town living.
Finally, there's the fact that Qole and her brother Arjan who are very much like Native Alaskans, taking from them the heart and strength that comes with survival in rough terrains.
Now for the characters.
Qole and Nev are our MCs; both from very different lives, and both having very different views. But each are passionate when it comes to what they believe, and I really respected that about them. Admittedly, both can be pretty narrow-minded at times, and that can get annoying, but fortunately the good out-weighed the bad, so I still liked them.
The supporting characters aren't given much back story, nor "screen time", but if I had to highlight any of them, it'd probably be Basra, the gender-fluid crew member who specializes in selling the shadow to the best buyers. I think Basra's inclusion in the story definitely shows how hungry readers are for diverse characters. Now, I'm not going to say that because of this, Shadow Run is somehow making history or anything so monumental, but I appreciated it none-the-less, and will likely remember this book more because of this.
Definitely one I'll recommend!
November 13, 2018
Alas, another attempt at YA SF that falls flat. It's not bad, but it's lacking in originality and the world-building is kind of weak. (Alaxak is a cold planet where the inhabitants scrape by by "fishing" for Shadow. Keep in mind that one of the authors is a fisherperson in Alaska. Yup.) It's fine, but there's no way in hell it should be being compared to either Dune or Firefly.
August 28, 2016
Damn I loved this book! It was very Firefly like but I can see the comparison to Dune too! Also I'm going to throw in a bit of Ice Pirates (the movie look it up lol) for giggles! I loved the dual POV's of Nev (swoons) and Qole! I can't wait for the next book!!!
June 8, 2017
actual rating: 3.5
i enjoyed this story but not as much as i would have liked to, i think the biggest problem i had with this book was the writing it didn't draw me in and didn't keep me invested in the story at all.
The characters were all amazing and the thing that i enjoyed most in this book but for me the writing of the story was a massive let down!
Ratings:
Characters: 4.5
Story: 3
Writing: 2.5
but if you love science fiction stories i think you'll love this
i enjoyed this story but not as much as i would have liked to, i think the biggest problem i had with this book was the writing it didn't draw me in and didn't keep me invested in the story at all.
The characters were all amazing and the thing that i enjoyed most in this book but for me the writing of the story was a massive let down!
Ratings:
Characters: 4.5
Story: 3
Writing: 2.5
but if you love science fiction stories i think you'll love this
June 23, 2016
I thought I would love this book before reading it, and now that I've read it, I love it more than I can express. But I will try...
If you like anything set in space and different planets, like Firely, Dune, Star Wars, and countless others, this book is for you. Once I started reading, I had a hard time putting it down, and when I did I told everyone I saw how good it was. The characters come to life from the very first page and you can't help but root for them as they go through my obstacles and trials, most of which I never saw coming from a mile away. That's what had me turning the pages so fast—I had no clue what was going to happen next. If anything about this book piques your interest, don't hesitate, just read. You will not be disappointed.
Now excuse me while I go pre-order this even though I've already read it.
If you like anything set in space and different planets, like Firely, Dune, Star Wars, and countless others, this book is for you. Once I started reading, I had a hard time putting it down, and when I did I told everyone I saw how good it was. The characters come to life from the very first page and you can't help but root for them as they go through my obstacles and trials, most of which I never saw coming from a mile away. That's what had me turning the pages so fast—I had no clue what was going to happen next. If anything about this book piques your interest, don't hesitate, just read. You will not be disappointed.
Now excuse me while I go pre-order this even though I've already read it.
December 18, 2016
4.5 stars
Review to come!
Just think: ship captains power over Shadow, financial whizzes, princes with ulterior motives but fight like there's no tomorrow, and more diverse characters that you can't help but want to protect and keep safe. THE CREW OF KAITAN HERITAGE MUST BE PROTECTED 5EVER.
Review to come!
Just think: ship captains power over Shadow, financial whizzes, princes with ulterior motives but fight like there's no tomorrow, and more diverse characters that you can't help but want to protect and keep safe. THE CREW OF KAITAN HERITAGE MUST BE PROTECTED 5EVER.
Read
April 2, 2017Hey all! Coauthor, here. If you want more information on the world, check in at www.kaitanchronicles.com, where we'll be adding more and more nerdy tidbits as time goes on. Thanks for reading, and we hope you have as much fun as we did writing it!
October 21, 2016
Science fiction is pretty much never my first choice, but I fell in love with kick-ass-first-ask-questions-after Captain Qole and her ragtag crew of misfits. Add to the mix exploding spaceships, a lethal but indispensable energy source, a prince in disguise, clan warfare, betrayals and treachery, and the terrible choice of which loyalty to sacrifice: to friends, to family, to the good of the galaxy--and you have a compelling read even for a non-SF fan like me.
April 13, 2017
Wow. That was awful. No character development. Mediocre world building. Insanely critical representation of a gender fluid character. Racism that matches Carve the Mark. Good god that was not fun but since it has so many high ratings I read the whole thing to give an honest and straight forward review.
July 10, 2018
Science fiction with elements of fantasy, lots of action and adventure, and some romance. That's this book.
I should have totally loved it. Something about the writing just didn't click with me though and I never got invested in the story or the characters. Bummer.
I think a lot of people might like this though. Go for it.
I should have totally loved it. Something about the writing just didn't click with me though and I never got invested in the story or the characters. Bummer.
I think a lot of people might like this though. Go for it.
February 10, 2017
--- I received this book through NetGalley against an honest review. ---
The book starts with a classical model of a science fiction book , the universe has been conquered by humans, the planets are more or less equal in resources, some are covered with ice, others with forest or stone. But what is interesting here is the story behind, we feel that there are centuries of History, that human specie has evolved. Speaking of society, this book is extremely modern on some points, the galaxy has a kind of emperor who is helped by advisers, these advisers share the planets and have well-defined boundaries. Each advisor has to prove it value and bring something or be forfeited, so we have a sort of Stock Exchange, with political and economic stakes such as our world today, the mix is very successful and I liked it a lot.
In this book, we will follow Nev and Qole. They can not be more different, one grew in ease and wealth, the other fights every day to be profitable in her ship after losing her family. Their roads do not cross by chance, but in the presence of each other, they will realize the reality of things and that each person has his own problems. I liked them because they are honest and pure in some way aven if they know that live is not easy. Their interactions are also very fun to read, because my god both have sass.
For the plot, I liked it, I found that the background is a bit classic in the genre, but the universe offered many novelties. There is a lot of action overall no time to get bored. The only downside is that the heroine concentrated more on some of her emotions, whereas given the trouble situation she was in, the priority was not there. The end opens beautiful perspectives for our characters and seen the major extra plot offered by the authors, I look forward to reading the second tome to see where it goes. So it was a great reading for me and I'm sure the sequel will be as good or best.
The book starts with a classical model of a science fiction book , the universe has been conquered by humans, the planets are more or less equal in resources, some are covered with ice, others with forest or stone. But what is interesting here is the story behind, we feel that there are centuries of History, that human specie has evolved. Speaking of society, this book is extremely modern on some points, the galaxy has a kind of emperor who is helped by advisers, these advisers share the planets and have well-defined boundaries. Each advisor has to prove it value and bring something or be forfeited, so we have a sort of Stock Exchange, with political and economic stakes such as our world today, the mix is very successful and I liked it a lot.
In this book, we will follow Nev and Qole. They can not be more different, one grew in ease and wealth, the other fights every day to be profitable in her ship after losing her family. Their roads do not cross by chance, but in the presence of each other, they will realize the reality of things and that each person has his own problems. I liked them because they are honest and pure in some way aven if they know that live is not easy. Their interactions are also very fun to read, because my god both have sass.
For the plot, I liked it, I found that the background is a bit classic in the genre, but the universe offered many novelties. There is a lot of action overall no time to get bored. The only downside is that the heroine concentrated more on some of her emotions, whereas given the trouble situation she was in, the priority was not there. The end opens beautiful perspectives for our characters and seen the major extra plot offered by the authors, I look forward to reading the second tome to see where it goes. So it was a great reading for me and I'm sure the sequel will be as good or best.
February 25, 2017
***I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
SUMMARY:
Qole Uvgamut pilots a ship and, along with her family and friends, fishes for and harnesses the volatile energy, called Shadow, that permeates the atmosphere in the galaxy around her planet. She doesn't just gather it for sale--Qole comes from a long line of people with an affinity for personally accessing the Shadow.
Nevarian Dracorte is a prince, heir to his family's throne. He's sent to retrieve Qole by any means necessary in order to bring her to his home so that they may study the different uses for Shadow.
When a rival family tries to kidnap Qole, the two are forced to work together. Eventually, they make it back to Nev's kingdom, but his family's intentions are not as well meaning as he's long thought.
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REVIEW:
SHADOW RUN is an action-packed adventure from the very first page. Intrigue and mystery are the name of the game, leaving you on the edge of your seat and flipping pages even more rapidly with with every passing scene. While some plot may have been a tad predictable, it did not detract from how enjoyable the overall story was, and in fact, these instances lull you into a sense of complacency, thinking you know where something's headed, before coming at you with a wallop of a twist.
Also, this book has essentially everything I love: ragtag group of people forming a found family; space travel; a cinnamon roll boy and a badass, strong, intelligent girl falling for each other; snarky banter; slow burn romance; morality battles; a genderfluid babe and his queer lover; inexplicably strong supernatural abilities; and more!
I'm so intrigued by the Shadow and Qole's ability to access the energy's power, and I cannot wait to see how Strickland and Miller will expand on the characters finding answers. Basra and Arjan are my everything, individually and together. Telu is my small child that I want only good things for, and I'm looking forward to more of grumpy Eton and his endless cache of weapons. And Nev, my prince, I am excited and nervous to see where he'll go from here, after the events of the last few chapters. I want to know everything.
SUMMARY:
Qole Uvgamut pilots a ship and, along with her family and friends, fishes for and harnesses the volatile energy, called Shadow, that permeates the atmosphere in the galaxy around her planet. She doesn't just gather it for sale--Qole comes from a long line of people with an affinity for personally accessing the Shadow.
Nevarian Dracorte is a prince, heir to his family's throne. He's sent to retrieve Qole by any means necessary in order to bring her to his home so that they may study the different uses for Shadow.
When a rival family tries to kidnap Qole, the two are forced to work together. Eventually, they make it back to Nev's kingdom, but his family's intentions are not as well meaning as he's long thought.
---------
REVIEW:
SHADOW RUN is an action-packed adventure from the very first page. Intrigue and mystery are the name of the game, leaving you on the edge of your seat and flipping pages even more rapidly with with every passing scene. While some plot may have been a tad predictable, it did not detract from how enjoyable the overall story was, and in fact, these instances lull you into a sense of complacency, thinking you know where something's headed, before coming at you with a wallop of a twist.
Also, this book has essentially everything I love: ragtag group of people forming a found family; space travel; a cinnamon roll boy and a badass, strong, intelligent girl falling for each other; snarky banter; slow burn romance; morality battles; a genderfluid babe and his queer lover; inexplicably strong supernatural abilities; and more!
I'm so intrigued by the Shadow and Qole's ability to access the energy's power, and I cannot wait to see how Strickland and Miller will expand on the characters finding answers. Basra and Arjan are my everything, individually and together. Telu is my small child that I want only good things for, and I'm looking forward to more of grumpy Eton and his endless cache of weapons. And Nev, my prince, I am excited and nervous to see where he'll go from here, after the events of the last few chapters. I want to know everything.
October 9, 2015
I was an early reader of Shadow Run and I thought it was amazing! It was packed full of adventure, romance, fascinating and unique characters, and cool, futuristic concepts. I fell in love with Qole and Nev, as well as Basra. Basra, in particular, was a breath of fresh air, as a gender-fluid, mysterious, and generally badassed individual. The entire book kept me enthralled throughout, and I can't wait for the sequel!
June 15, 2018
Tohle bylo boží!!!
Ne Illuminae, ale chyběla tomu už jen grafická forma.
Odteď už chci číst jen sci-fi, co napsali muž a žena společně, protože tohle je prostě pecka!
Muž: akce, bojové scény, technické a obchodní vymoženosti
Žena: pocity, postavy, jejich vnitřní myšlenky a vzájemné vztahy
Jízda od začátku až do konce, možná se ještě vyšplháme na plné hodnocení.
5/5*
(Vyšplhali jsme se.)
// Celá recenze: https://marky-books.blogspot.com/2018...
Ne Illuminae, ale chyběla tomu už jen grafická forma.
Odteď už chci číst jen sci-fi, co napsali muž a žena společně, protože tohle je prostě pecka!
Muž: akce, bojové scény, technické a obchodní vymoženosti
Žena: pocity, postavy, jejich vnitřní myšlenky a vzájemné vztahy
Jízda od začátku až do konce, možná se ještě vyšplháme na plné hodnocení.
5/5*
(Vyšplhali jsme se.)
// Celá recenze: https://marky-books.blogspot.com/2018...
July 15, 2016
Longer review to come but you know that feeling you get when you have really high expectations for a book and it actually meets those expectations? This book will give you that feeling x10. Definitely read this one y'all!
March 16, 2017
4.5 stars! Immediate reaction: I loved all the action and really enjoyed the crew relationships and characters! Some info dumping would kind of crop up in some parts, mostly the politics stuff -- at least to me it seemed like big paragraphs that got a little dry (give me more on the Kaitan instead!) Nev was soo naive and way too idealistic bless his heart but you can't help but love him. I can't wait to see what is to come in the rest of this series!
Full review:
This was a really action packed and thrilling sci-fi ride! I can definitely see the parallels to Firefly and Dune. Our spaceship in question is the Kaitan and our main cast the crew of the Kaitan. I absolutely loved each member on board the Kaitan and all the crew relationships. Everyone is close and they are each other's family -- the loyalty runs deep. They have each other's backs which is definitely important when you're in the business of catching Shadow -- a mysterious substance that can act as fuel but can also cause you to go crazy if exposed for too long. It also has some other aspects that I'm sure we'll learn even more about in future books!
Nev is the outsider to this close-knit group but oh precious Nev. He is this good hearted, genuine, idealistic person that you can't help but love even if his naivety makes you go NEV sometimes. Okay but I really loved Nev and he's just such a good person and also super badass (absolutely loved all the action scenes -- I was riveted!) Despite being "new" he gradually gets incorporated into their group (after some...adventures).
I really liked the build up of Nev and Qole's relationship. She's a strong, independent Captain and has been taking care of herself and her crew for a long time. Nev sort of upends everything she knows and in the craziness that ensues, they manage to find common ground and form something that I want to root for!
The action in this book is (excuse the pun) out of this world. I really think it would make such a great movie because I could totally visualize everything in my head! The scenes had me holding my breath and I was glued to the pages! Things get really intense and seeing it on a big screen would be so cool.
My only complaint for this book is that some parts seemed info-dumpy -- long winded chapters with big explanations, mostly on the politics involved. It felt a little lengthy and dry to me. Yes, the politics involved are a big aspect but incorporating it into the story more seamlessly would've made it feel less like an info dump I think.
In Short...
This was a fantastic beginning to a fun sci-fi series! I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys great character development, edge of your seat action and a fascinating sci-fi world! I can't wait to see what else is next in store for the Kaitan and her crew!
Full review:
This was a really action packed and thrilling sci-fi ride! I can definitely see the parallels to Firefly and Dune. Our spaceship in question is the Kaitan and our main cast the crew of the Kaitan. I absolutely loved each member on board the Kaitan and all the crew relationships. Everyone is close and they are each other's family -- the loyalty runs deep. They have each other's backs which is definitely important when you're in the business of catching Shadow -- a mysterious substance that can act as fuel but can also cause you to go crazy if exposed for too long. It also has some other aspects that I'm sure we'll learn even more about in future books!
Nev is the outsider to this close-knit group but oh precious Nev. He is this good hearted, genuine, idealistic person that you can't help but love even if his naivety makes you go NEV sometimes. Okay but I really loved Nev and he's just such a good person and also super badass (absolutely loved all the action scenes -- I was riveted!) Despite being "new" he gradually gets incorporated into their group (after some...adventures).
I really liked the build up of Nev and Qole's relationship. She's a strong, independent Captain and has been taking care of herself and her crew for a long time. Nev sort of upends everything she knows and in the craziness that ensues, they manage to find common ground and form something that I want to root for!
The action in this book is (excuse the pun) out of this world. I really think it would make such a great movie because I could totally visualize everything in my head! The scenes had me holding my breath and I was glued to the pages! Things get really intense and seeing it on a big screen would be so cool.
My only complaint for this book is that some parts seemed info-dumpy -- long winded chapters with big explanations, mostly on the politics involved. It felt a little lengthy and dry to me. Yes, the politics involved are a big aspect but incorporating it into the story more seamlessly would've made it feel less like an info dump I think.
In Short...
This was a fantastic beginning to a fun sci-fi series! I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys great character development, edge of your seat action and a fascinating sci-fi world! I can't wait to see what else is next in store for the Kaitan and her crew!
June 16, 2018
Welcome aboard the Kaitan Heritage, a starship cargo loader captain by Qole. I loved the worldbuilding and concepts created by these authors in SHADOW RUN. Qole, the youngest person to command a ship and perhaps one of the greats. Qole and Arjan her brother hail from Alaxak and infected by shadow. Their crew consists of one of Qole's childhood friends a hacker named Telu, Eton the bodyguard, and Basra, the merchant. These secondary characters are fleshed out and full of surprises, so be alert. Barsa is brilly and a favorite already. Also on board is their newest crew member Nev, a royal prince searching for highly functional shadow people. Disguised as a cargo loader he is about to alter the course of the ship and their lives.
Strickland and Miller deliver this story in dual narratives alternating between Cole and Nev and it worked brilliantly. The story is fast paced with the world building slowly laced throughout the story. I loved their show not tell approach. Kristoff was right in his description, and I loved the whole Firefly vibe of the ship and worlds. The snark, subtle romance and kick-ass crew made me feel right at home. Nev and Qole are strong, likable characters allowing me to become emotionally connected as I rooted for them.
There is a subtle romance that I hope will continue throughout the series. We did have a little triangle at one point that had cliche elements, but it is quickly withdrawn allowing readers to breath knowing we won't be saddled with that drama.
From dual-wielding Disruptor Blades, drones and purple flames shooting from fingertips, SHADOW RUN will feed your inner geek. However, the tale is light enough to attract fans who don't necessarily dabble in science fiction. The friction stems from resources and political power and while the story isn't overly complex, the action scenes, kick-ass characters, and imagery bring it all to life.
The ending resolves their current issue and hints at things to come, leaving the reader in a good place. Fans of SIX OF CROWS, ILLUMINAE, and Firefly will enjoy time aboard the Kaitan Heritage.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Strickland and Miller deliver this story in dual narratives alternating between Cole and Nev and it worked brilliantly. The story is fast paced with the world building slowly laced throughout the story. I loved their show not tell approach. Kristoff was right in his description, and I loved the whole Firefly vibe of the ship and worlds. The snark, subtle romance and kick-ass crew made me feel right at home. Nev and Qole are strong, likable characters allowing me to become emotionally connected as I rooted for them.
There is a subtle romance that I hope will continue throughout the series. We did have a little triangle at one point that had cliche elements, but it is quickly withdrawn allowing readers to breath knowing we won't be saddled with that drama.
From dual-wielding Disruptor Blades, drones and purple flames shooting from fingertips, SHADOW RUN will feed your inner geek. However, the tale is light enough to attract fans who don't necessarily dabble in science fiction. The friction stems from resources and political power and while the story isn't overly complex, the action scenes, kick-ass characters, and imagery bring it all to life.
The ending resolves their current issue and hints at things to come, leaving the reader in a good place. Fans of SIX OF CROWS, ILLUMINAE, and Firefly will enjoy time aboard the Kaitan Heritage.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 24, 2016
I started this book with a yawn, "okay teen romance, I dare you to wow me", but then came a reference to "fishing for shadow" and nets and the "skiff". Were they purse seining in space?! I turned to the author biographies and sure enough, Palmer, AK was their home. Along with the seining, "Alaxak" was the home planet in question! I enjoy a good in-joke (as do many Alaskans) and so, I kept reading. The story was well worth it. Sure it had a few tropes, but it blended them well and the two lead characters were engaging. "Firefly meets Dune" was the talking point, and while it didn't quite measure up to either of those titles, the class struggle, the fight for resource control, the space travel all came together nicely. I'll be recommending this to the Teen Corps at the Homer Bookstore who also put in a good word for Wordless. I'm sorry it doesn't come out until 2017!
March 22, 2017
4.5 stars overall.
This a great, complexly-plotted, edge of your seat kind of science fiction adventure with just a touch of magic. I couldn't put this book down! Really well defined characters, diversity, and an interesting political dynamic that takes this to the next level and would be great for adult sci-fi readers, too. If you loved Romina Russell's Zodiac series, you'll love this one!
I took of half a star because there were times when I felt parts were a little cliché; the ball scene in particular.
This is also a great mirror of what our world may grow to expect if the energy crisis continues in the direction it is going and a lesson in how NOT to treat those in developing or poor places. I like science fiction that can relate to our current world situation.
This a great, complexly-plotted, edge of your seat kind of science fiction adventure with just a touch of magic. I couldn't put this book down! Really well defined characters, diversity, and an interesting political dynamic that takes this to the next level and would be great for adult sci-fi readers, too. If you loved Romina Russell's Zodiac series, you'll love this one!
I took of half a star because there were times when I felt parts were a little cliché; the ball scene in particular.
This is also a great mirror of what our world may grow to expect if the energy crisis continues in the direction it is going and a lesson in how NOT to treat those in developing or poor places. I like science fiction that can relate to our current world situation.
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