What do you think?
Rate this book
Corps of Discovery #1
Surveyor
JOIN THE CORPS AND EXPLORE NEW PLANETS. EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE IN FARAWAY LANDSThe Corps of Discovery goes where most men fear to tread - unexplored alternate Earths!Bill Clark thought he had joined the Corps to explore new planets, only to find out there was a lot more to it than that. His new home is far freer than the one he left, but also more dangerous.Bill begins to wonder if he'll be able to survive on these new worlds. It’s not just the Pleistocene predators he has to avoid, but somebody is actively trying to kill him and the woman he loves.Is his life really worth joining the Corps?Join Bill in this cross-time adventure as he finds out that adventure generally means someone else in danger in a faraway land, and he's on the adventure of his life.A great read for lovers of action and adventure.
- GenresScience Fiction
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2017
291 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
James S. Peet
14 books13 followersJames S. Peet is a modern day Renaissance Man. He’s lived on four continents, six countries, and visited countless more. He’s been a National Park Service Ranger, a police officer, a tow-truck driver, a college instructor, a private investigator, a fraud examiner/forensic accountant, an inventor (the Simple Shower - sold on Amazon), and an entrepreneur. He's walked the Camino de Santiago (two short ones and the long one from St. Jean Pied de Port to Muxia), a walkabout he highly recommends (and wrote a cook-book for his second Camino - it's also on Amazon).
He lives on the top of a small mountain in the foothills of Washington’s Cascade Mountains with his wife, dogs, barn cats, and whatever adult daughter returns to the nest. He’s attended 10 colleges and universities, two law enforcement academies, and has three degrees (all in geography) and multiple certificates (he really likes learning).
His Corps of Discovery series and the forthcoming Chronicles of Hayek series are set in the multiverse. His other writing endeavors include several articles on modern sea piracy, economics, and the private investigation of fraud.
He lives on the top of a small mountain in the foothills of Washington’s Cascade Mountains with his wife, dogs, barn cats, and whatever adult daughter returns to the nest. He’s attended 10 colleges and universities, two law enforcement academies, and has three degrees (all in geography) and multiple certificates (he really likes learning).
His Corps of Discovery series and the forthcoming Chronicles of Hayek series are set in the multiverse. His other writing endeavors include several articles on modern sea piracy, economics, and the private investigation of fraud.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 1, 2021
Good story!
Characters are mostly believable, the action is great. Always good to have a love interest, thanks for leaving out the clinical parts. So far it all sounds believable and I'm looking forward to the rest of it.
Characters are mostly believable, the action is great. Always good to have a love interest, thanks for leaving out the clinical parts. So far it all sounds believable and I'm looking forward to the rest of it.
January 3, 2022
This is an insane far-right/libertarian fantasy where gun control and government are demonized and frankly I'm tired of authors spouting crap so obvious that I could see the problem with it when I was 15. Humanity in the 17 and 1800s, especially in the USA, had limited government and largely unregulated gun ownership. Any honest inquiry will discover that the vast majority of people living through such times wanted law and order and the fact that everyone had a gun did not actually discourage crime since criminals don't expect to get caught.
This book demonstrated its worthlessness very early but I forced myself to keep reading until I was 21% of the way through. I think what pisses me off most about these ridiculous stories is that I'd love to live in a world without government regulation but I realized at age 15 that the cost of doing so would be living alone in the wilderness. For example, in this book, since there is no government, the streets are owned by the individuals who live on them. Somehow these individual MAGICALLY AGREE on how to best maintain the roads. What about the guy selling pillows across the street from the guy minting gold??? Do you know how much damage heavy wagons loads of gold does to a street? Whereas the guy selling pillows wouldn’t really need a road since his product could be brought in by hand. What about the guy who had a bad investment and so stops paying for the upkeep of the road? Presumably the other store owners shoot him since gun ownership is the sole form of law enforcement. What about the guy living upstream on a river dumping pollution into it? No regulation so not illegal, unless someone downstream is better with a gun apparently. Of course all the reasons why governments exist are just ignored in this ridiculous piece of propaganda trash.
Also everyone, even the disabled, can magically find jobs. The author claims that this is due to their being more jobs than people but that only works if none of the jobs have any qualifications. Would you like your appendectomy performed by someone who got their job because they lost a leg and so couldn’t be a “surveyor” anymore???? It should also be noted that, magically, there isn’t PTSD or other psychological disorders, since they don’t’ fit into this author’s ridiculous world view. Same with Alzheimer’s, dementia cancer, etc.
Bottom line: Complete and total crap.
This book demonstrated its worthlessness very early but I forced myself to keep reading until I was 21% of the way through. I think what pisses me off most about these ridiculous stories is that I'd love to live in a world without government regulation but I realized at age 15 that the cost of doing so would be living alone in the wilderness. For example, in this book, since there is no government, the streets are owned by the individuals who live on them. Somehow these individual MAGICALLY AGREE on how to best maintain the roads. What about the guy selling pillows across the street from the guy minting gold??? Do you know how much damage heavy wagons loads of gold does to a street? Whereas the guy selling pillows wouldn’t really need a road since his product could be brought in by hand. What about the guy who had a bad investment and so stops paying for the upkeep of the road? Presumably the other store owners shoot him since gun ownership is the sole form of law enforcement. What about the guy living upstream on a river dumping pollution into it? No regulation so not illegal, unless someone downstream is better with a gun apparently. Of course all the reasons why governments exist are just ignored in this ridiculous piece of propaganda trash.
Also everyone, even the disabled, can magically find jobs. The author claims that this is due to their being more jobs than people but that only works if none of the jobs have any qualifications. Would you like your appendectomy performed by someone who got their job because they lost a leg and so couldn’t be a “surveyor” anymore???? It should also be noted that, magically, there isn’t PTSD or other psychological disorders, since they don’t’ fit into this author’s ridiculous world view. Same with Alzheimer’s, dementia cancer, etc.
Bottom line: Complete and total crap.
March 21, 2023
This is one of those books that can be taken on various levels. On the level of a political treatise, it doesn't work. There are too many unconvincing details that are just glossed over. As an adventure yarn, the book works a bit better. The premise is that some genius discovers the way to open quantum portals between parallel universes. They then use this access to fund the development of alternative worlds. The tale is about how two of those worlds are surveyed prior to settlement.
As a story, the book works reasonably well. We aren't told a great deal about the Gaia Liberation Front, other than that they are the 'bad actors'. This is a bit remiss because it is the sabotaging of a survey plane that ends the book where it is, which is much in need of the second volume. The book left me asking who these people are? What do they want? And what do they hope to achieve from their actions? This basic explanation is missing from the book.
If there were gaps in the plot, the writing appears a bit stilted at times. The language is wooden and the characters are one dimensional. There are few surprises as the author reverts to stereotypes and cliché in lieu of narrative. That's OK if the reader is an insider. If, like me, they aren't, then a lot of the narrative is wasted on me.
And yet, despite all of this, I quite liked the book. It's a simple tale that is told in an undemanding way. Just the right material for bedtime reading. I'm likely to read the next volume because I want to see how they cross an undeveloped globe using basic survival materials. If you think that's unbelievable, it probably is.
As a story, the book works reasonably well. We aren't told a great deal about the Gaia Liberation Front, other than that they are the 'bad actors'. This is a bit remiss because it is the sabotaging of a survey plane that ends the book where it is, which is much in need of the second volume. The book left me asking who these people are? What do they want? And what do they hope to achieve from their actions? This basic explanation is missing from the book.
If there were gaps in the plot, the writing appears a bit stilted at times. The language is wooden and the characters are one dimensional. There are few surprises as the author reverts to stereotypes and cliché in lieu of narrative. That's OK if the reader is an insider. If, like me, they aren't, then a lot of the narrative is wasted on me.
And yet, despite all of this, I quite liked the book. It's a simple tale that is told in an undemanding way. Just the right material for bedtime reading. I'm likely to read the next volume because I want to see how they cross an undeveloped globe using basic survival materials. If you think that's unbelievable, it probably is.
January 6, 2022
Found this a straightforward but enjoyable novel to read. Once you strip away the science fiction aspects it's basically a coming of age story and a wilderness adventure tale. It is also in my opinion a vehicle for the author to put forward his views on a libertarian society could be if it was given a chance to develop. By libertarian, I mean a society where individual independence and responsibility is at the fore. The use of science fiction to put a case for different societies and political is a long-established and noble aspect of the genre so I have no problem with this aspect of the book as it does not detract from it being as I said an enjoyable tale.
It's not a heavy read I got through it in a few days, but that is my one little niggle with the book. It is really only the first part of the tale and ends if not on a cliffhanger, it does leave you in the position of needing to read the next book in the series to find out what happens to the main characters. That, however, does not seem to be usual these days and again I don't blame the author whose living it is and yes I have bought the second book, plus the third.
It's not a heavy read I got through it in a few days, but that is my one little niggle with the book. It is really only the first part of the tale and ends if not on a cliffhanger, it does leave you in the position of needing to read the next book in the series to find out what happens to the main characters. That, however, does not seem to be usual these days and again I don't blame the author whose living it is and yes I have bought the second book, plus the third.
June 6, 2024
Satisfying start to a series!
From the very beginning ,this book reminded me in a lot of ways of Heinlein's Tunnel In The Sky. It does not suffer in the comparison. It's got the adventure aspect,a touch of science,new worlds to explore,and doesn't take the easy way by descending into the "gear porn" so often prevalent any more.
I like and care about the characters, find the tech aspects of this universe believable, and hope this ends up a long series. It's just fun,and I may fool around and learn a little as I'm entertained.
From the very beginning ,this book reminded me in a lot of ways of Heinlein's Tunnel In The Sky. It does not suffer in the comparison. It's got the adventure aspect,a touch of science,new worlds to explore,and doesn't take the easy way by descending into the "gear porn" so often prevalent any more.
I like and care about the characters, find the tech aspects of this universe believable, and hope this ends up a long series. It's just fun,and I may fool around and learn a little as I'm entertained.
September 1, 2020
Great idea!
I liked the premise of this book, alternate worlds, so I kept reading and reading hoping for something, anything to happen, it took almost the whole book for things to get going, but they've started! Woohoo! Finally! I'm looking forward to the next as hopefully the author has got his first bookisms worked out. I liked the setting of the book I love 30 miles north of where it is set! I liked reading of my part of the world!
I liked the premise of this book, alternate worlds, so I kept reading and reading hoping for something, anything to happen, it took almost the whole book for things to get going, but they've started! Woohoo! Finally! I'm looking forward to the next as hopefully the author has got his first bookisms worked out. I liked the setting of the book I love 30 miles north of where it is set! I liked reading of my part of the world!
May 2, 2021
Very well-written and edited. As a lover of alternate worlds, alternate histories, and speculative fiction in general, I became immediately engrossed in the story. The author incorporates his extensive knowledge of geography, military weaponry, and electronics to bring authenticity and realism to the narrative. I was intrigued by the human (romantic) story interwoven throughout the book. I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
September 8, 2024
An amazing book
I know alot of people say this, but I found the story interesting a little slow but the information that is covered is a amazing building block stores the world and characters. I loved the concept of the society, and found it a lot like original independence concept with a profound idea on voting rights. I looking forward to seeing what is next. Thank you for your hard work and intelligent writing.
P.s. I love the art
I know alot of people say this, but I found the story interesting a little slow but the information that is covered is a amazing building block stores the world and characters. I loved the concept of the society, and found it a lot like original independence concept with a profound idea on voting rights. I looking forward to seeing what is next. Thank you for your hard work and intelligent writing.
P.s. I love the art
October 19, 2020
Okay
I have a real problem with the final crash landing and the "No hope of rescue!" Even with no radio they were on a planned course with a time to return. Eventually someone would retrace their route and they could signal them. I also have a problem with not properly searching the aircraft with the known presence of a saboteur and no proper security.
I have a real problem with the final crash landing and the "No hope of rescue!" Even with no radio they were on a planned course with a time to return. Eventually someone would retrace their route and they could signal them. I also have a problem with not properly searching the aircraft with the known presence of a saboteur and no proper security.
November 25, 2021
New Green Deal adventures on new worlds
Liked the concept of parallel world exploration first person development. A little put off by the "Preachy" Liberal Green Deal Conservation aspects of the writing but was still readable inspite of that literary bent. Well developed story and characters. Lots of relatable syfy based adventure.
Liked the concept of parallel world exploration first person development. A little put off by the "Preachy" Liberal Green Deal Conservation aspects of the writing but was still readable inspite of that literary bent. Well developed story and characters. Lots of relatable syfy based adventure.
July 19, 2022
Strange New Earths
I became so engrossed in this novel that I read it in one sitting. The research is impeccable, the plot is steady and engaging, and the characters are as real as anyone you might meet in the real world. Be ready for adventures on parallel Earths, and stay safe out there.
I became so engrossed in this novel that I read it in one sitting. The research is impeccable, the plot is steady and engaging, and the characters are as real as anyone you might meet in the real world. Be ready for adventures on parallel Earths, and stay safe out there.
October 6, 2024
Good story and quick read. The characters are easy to like and pretty well fleshed out.
Exploring parallel worlds what's not to like! As a plus, you learn survival and trekker organization you may use one day. This is a very well thought and out novel with good interactions between the characters?
Exploring parallel worlds what's not to like! As a plus, you learn survival and trekker organization you may use one day. This is a very well thought and out novel with good interactions between the characters?
June 27, 2020
I recommend this book
I was hooked by the theme, and this book didn't disappoint. This was an entertaining read. I liked the characters and the story. I recommend this book to others.
I was hooked by the theme, and this book didn't disappoint. This was an entertaining read. I liked the characters and the story. I recommend this book to others.
July 28, 2020
Technical
Too many words are spent explaining things that are trivial to the story in such excess detail that it contributes nothing to the depth of the of the characters, plot, or background.
Too many words are spent explaining things that are trivial to the story in such excess detail that it contributes nothing to the depth of the of the characters, plot, or background.
August 12, 2020
Really slow going book until the end
I thought the book could of covered what happens when they discovered how to jump from planted to planet better. How many gates are there and where are they located
I thought the book could of covered what happens when they discovered how to jump from planted to planet better. How many gates are there and where are they located
September 22, 2020
Tunnel in the sky meets Freehold
You are assured that the Author is a fan of RAH, and Has enjoyed Williamson. A fresh take on Tunnel, but more from an adult standpoint. Waiting with bated breath to start book 2. As the ad went, “Try it, you will like it. Mikey likes it.”
You are assured that the Author is a fan of RAH, and Has enjoyed Williamson. A fresh take on Tunnel, but more from an adult standpoint. Waiting with bated breath to start book 2. As the ad went, “Try it, you will like it. Mikey likes it.”
October 28, 2020
Interesting plot. I liked the characters in the book, and the realistic things they had to do to become explorers in new worlds. There was a little too much technical detail on fire arms etc for my taste, but all in all a great read.
May 18, 2021
A grand adventure.
A grand adventure reminding me of a tunnel in the sky, mastidonia,and the
expendables.Good pacing fast but not frenetic. Interesting characters who are
well developed and likeable.
A grand adventure reminding me of a tunnel in the sky, mastidonia,and the
expendables.Good pacing fast but not frenetic. Interesting characters who are
well developed and likeable.
November 16, 2021
Surveyor for me harkens back to reading Heinlein!
This is one of the better alternate world's books I have read. Great characters, lots of believable action and a well developed story made this one of the best books I have read in recent times.
This is one of the better alternate world's books I have read. Great characters, lots of believable action and a well developed story made this one of the best books I have read in recent times.
July 26, 2022
I really enjoyed this story
I had a great time reading this book. Reminds me a lot of early Heinlein. I enjoyed seeing Bill going through training and learning to be an explorer. I will absolutely read more in this series.
I had a great time reading this book. Reminds me a lot of early Heinlein. I enjoyed seeing Bill going through training and learning to be an explorer. I will absolutely read more in this series.
July 28, 2022
Libertarian society established
A newly discovered planet has been established on a parallel earth and is recruiting earth folks to explore the next parallel earth's to be opened to colonization. Love story side plot. Great sci-fi adventures even though there are no space ships
A newly discovered planet has been established on a parallel earth and is recruiting earth folks to explore the next parallel earth's to be opened to colonization. Love story side plot. Great sci-fi adventures even though there are no space ships
November 12, 2023
Extremely fun read
Really interesting characters, a unique premise. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book.
Really interesting characters, a unique premise. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book.
March 22, 2024
Much about the exploration of alternate worlds and the training required by the discovery teams. Ending with the challenge for one team to find its way home from the Mediterranean. A good start for this new and interesting series.
May 3, 2024
Great entry into a complex multivrse adventure
New early earth's to explore by air, boat, and foot by younger fit adventurers are developed. it was good to see how they would be prepared. I loved this concept and look forward to more adventures.
New early earth's to explore by air, boat, and foot by younger fit adventurers are developed. it was good to see how they would be prepared. I loved this concept and look forward to more adventures.
May 29, 2024
Enjoyed
Fast paced and fun. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. The story is very interesting in terms of parallel earths and the variation of development. Highly recommend.
Fast paced and fun. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. The story is very interesting in terms of parallel earths and the variation of development. Highly recommend.
November 12, 2017
Loved it. It reminded me of the Robert Heinlein and Lester Del Ray classics that I read as a kid. Looking forward to the next book by this author.
November 28, 2017
Libertoonians in Spaaace!
Way too much heavy-handed, stereotypical libertarian nonsense. F. Paul Wilson & Mike Williamson do it better. Especially Williamson’s “Grainne” novels.
Way too much heavy-handed, stereotypical libertarian nonsense. F. Paul Wilson & Mike Williamson do it better. Especially Williamson’s “Grainne” novels.
October 29, 2019
Very interesting concept about a portal between parallel Earths. I would have rated it higher if it did not stop on a cliffhanger. I would have read book 2 in the series anyway. You should too.
June 27, 2020
Excellent Enjoyable. Worth Reading
Read
December 23, 2020Excellent story
Excellent story and an interesting story idea ! A exciting book that will keep you hooked from start to finish !
Excellent story and an interesting story idea ! A exciting book that will keep you hooked from start to finish !
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews