Allies and enemies are not always what they seem. Trapped on a hostile world, hunted by pirate bands and abandoned by her fellow captains, Alexis Carew must lead her small band to safety, even though it seems every hand is set against her. Stalked by pirates in the skies above and shadowy, alien figures on the planet below, Alexis must convince former enemies to trust her even as she discovers where the tendrils of her true enemies lead.
Another enjoyable Alexis Carew novel following the young lady at arms as she struggles to liberate a planet full of enslaved sailors as well as enact revenge on the criminals who put her on it. I really enjoyed this as well as the convoluted politics of J.A. Sutherland's world. Alexis remains an enjoyable Honor Harrington-esque heroine and I appreciated her reunion with another character. Will she be able to stand up against the Admiral who humiliated her? We can only find out next book!
I'm glad I did battle onto this in the end, despite my initial reservations due to the disappointment of the fifth book. Whilst I stick with my previous conviction that Privateer could easily have been merged with this book, making a single exceptional entity, Sutherland finally gave us a full plot and some fantastic moments here. From the very beginning of this novel, the uncertainty and tension is clear and Alexis has more than one challenge to overcome, just in order to get her lads to safety. This beginning could have been too slow, but instead clipped along at pace and drew you in to the dangers they will have to traverse.
The characterisations here are superb and almost make me forget the distinct lack of continuity in characters, as again with the exception of a small handful of crew few of these characters had a part to play in earlier instalments. But Sutherland mixes a wide variety of characters here to great effect and you get a snapshot of a ceasefire in the midst of war as differing sides come together for survival. It's also interesting to see Sutherland begin to openly challenge the discriminatory attitudes of those of some of the Fringe worlds, sometimes openly through Alexis herself and other times through background characters responses and actions.
Alexis once more makes a splendid character to follow, actually even more so now that she is starting to overcome what was quite clearly a significant case of PTSD from the events at Giron. She's smart, plucky and above all entertaining when desperate or annoyed. Her interactions with the web of characters never seems forced or unlikely and I particularly enjoyed some of the dialogue between her and one particular pirate of note. Once more she finds herself in an untenable situation and yet refuses to sit back and do nothing, meaning that she takes you on one helluva ride.
All in all, this is certainly a huge improvement on the last novel, but I can't quite persuade myself to give it five stars as in reality it is part 2 of one book... and the last two books would make a far better and more intense read if the first book was heavily edited to cut down on the bloated sections and then the two books merged into one taut narrative.
I didn't finish the sluggish book 5 and had given up this series, but that was a mistake, because this is the full broadside and more. Sutherland is a clever storyteller and mixes tension, action, humour and plot curveballs into a most entertaining romp. He even writes a sailor's shanty about it for us with naughty rhymes.
Still, I'd normally only give 4 stars for highly entertaining escapist froth, but Alexis Carew as a main character earns the star. I kept being reminded of Lois McMaster Bujold's mesmerising creation, Miles Vorkosigan. Not so much that both are short officers in SF navies. That both take a distinctively broad view of their moral obligations within hierarchical military structures, and have a certain flair and charisma in a crisis, is getting warmer. They are quite different and distinct characters in their own way. It's the level of moral challenge met, and the courage in the service of others, so that ultimately the loyalty her men show her is believable and she earns our loyalty as readers as well.
After pretty much binging the first five books in this series, this latest installment had been sitting around on my Kindle unread for far too long. Stranded on a hostile planet with only a fraction of her crew, Alexis must contend with pirates, slaveholders, and erstwhile enemies turned reluctant allies in her struggle to get her people back home. Some of the German used in this one had me laugh-crying and shaking my head in despair all at once. (Dear J.A. Sutherland: whoever told you that "Mausebär" was an endearment suitable for an anguish-laden emotional farewell scene between lovers did not have your best interests at heart, unless they thought your German-speaking readers being incapable of taking said scene seriously was in your best interests). Apart from that, this was excellent entertainment as usual. Looking forward to the next one!
The beginning half of this book was more difficult to get through than I'm used to, which had a lot to do with my mind being elsewhere and a bit to do with the author clearly needing to get Alexis from point A to point B. I didn't get quite as attached to the side characters in this book and had a bit of trouble focusing on the goings on.
However, the second half is great. Intriguing politics, good action, and a satisfying conclusion.
Despite dipping into dark themes, there's something very uplifting about the Carew books. They never take the darkness too far. It's nice to read science fiction that has that lighter edge.
First things First: should you read this even though you didn't love book #5? Yes, yes, YES!!!
Trust me, this one is all you could wish for in an Alexis Carew book. It has action, it has a decent plot, it has great characters and the best romantic couple of this series (nope, STILL not Alexis/Delaine), and the writing is excellent.
Alexis Carew is both a larger than life and down to earth character at the same time. Yes, she's lucky, but she earned it, too. She's clever, decisive, tough and competent, doesn't shy away from difficult decisions, and it's so satisfying to read about how she manages to get herself out of the tightest of spots. She can also be gracious and her sense of humor shines through as well. The fact that she still suffers from PTSD and an alcoholic makes her a well-rounded, believable character despite all her heroics.
The concept of 18th century ships in space isn't new by now (it's after all the 6th book in this series), but it still works for me. I still adore it. And J. A. Sutherland even managed to further up his game, what with his description of boarding an enemy ship in outer space at zero gravity. If you've ever wondered what an Erol Flynn sword fight would look like in 0-grav... well, you'll know after reading this book. Spoiler alert: it's thrilling! Also, what does blood from wounds do under these circumstances? You'll find that out, too (might gross you out, though). So yeah, that boarding was awesome, but my favorite move will always be when the ships roll around to fire off the other broadside, tried and tested in the other books. I looove that visual.
Last but not least: the side characters! Oh, the side characters. There's one pirate in particular that stands out- that was a LOT of fun to read. Oh, and the Queen. Only a few pages but I'm already a fan.
And while Alexis' love story still disappoints (IMO the only weak point in this book- I never really felt "it" with her and Delaine) there's one between two side characters that had me SOBBING. Huge sobs, fat tears, it wasn't pretty. The fact that it was a queer couple isn't relevant, but welcome nonetheless. I dare even the most homophobic person to not secretly like those two. They're just adorable without being clichéd or sappy or saccharine in any way. I loved every bit.
Very, very happy to have read this book. Now looking forward to finding out what Avrel Dansby has been up to in earlier years...
I read books 1-6 in quick succession so this is a combined review of them all.
The author creates a believable universe in which FTL travel occurs in a manner that, through necessity, replicates the feel of the age of sail of the early 19th century. While this might seem contrived at first glance, this reality is so interwoven into the characters and the universe that you quickly just accept it as (fictional) fact and enjoy the story. The technology levels of developed worlds hits all of the expected high notes; it is really just the FTL travel that morphs into a different era.
The tale of Alexis Carew mirrors that of Horatio Hornblower to a great extent. Born into a star-spanning nation modeled politically and culturally on the British Empire of the early 19th century, Alexis joins the Navy as a midshipman and faces a series of trials and adventures that certainly pay homage to, and remind the reader of Hornblower's travails. Carew's tale includes more of her home life than Hornblowers, which adds to and deepens her journey, rather than distracting from it.
As one would expect, her gender is an area of conflict on multiple occasions, but is not overdone or used as a blunt instrument.
The books are PG-13, with occasional detailed violence, some allusions to sexual activity, and some language, though most of that uses 19th century terms. If you are proficient in German or French, the language does get more explicit. Overall, though, the reader is protected by a veneer of class that keeps the story from being overly gritty and is in keeping with a series that, at its core, starts with the journey of a 15 year old girl.
Overall, I highly recommend the series. At its core, it is a YA/NA series with a strong female lead, strong character growth and a plot that includes not only adventure, but intrigue and romance as well.
Consistently good story from Mr. Sutherland. I was glad we could see more of Alexis and Co. and wasn't disappointed with this installment. Our Miss Carew seems to have the penchant for finding herself in all sorts of unusual circumstances and isn't afraid to exercise her initiative in new and more interesting ways especially if it will stick one in the eyes of her hidebound superiors. She just don't play by the rules but it all seems to go right in the end as she was simply doing her duty as well as the right thing, leaving their lordships wondering how such a slip of a girl can do so much damage to their plans and sense of propriety. She really fights way above her weight class and wins in most spectacular fashion gaining in the end, once again, the freedom of thousands and the chagrin of the Lords of the Admiralty. Most notably, unknown to her, Alexis gains one critical ally at the end of the story: The Queen of New London... God only know what will come of Her Majesty's new admiration and attention....
Once again I cannot find fault with an Alexis Carew story.
I dearly love this storyline and the world that Sutherland has wrought. It helps that I am a huge fan of Horatio Hornblower, John Silver, Captain Ahab, Mister Christian and so many others. I truly believe that these books have the potential to become enduring classics.
I only wish that Mr. Sutherland had a more demanding published and editor to enforce a higher volume of production. I'm thinking Stephen King's "Misery" may be required to satisfy the addiction that I am struggling with as I impatiently await the next installment.
To Authors who have received lessor ratings on their efforts, I can only say read these stories and learn.
I loved this sixth installment of the adventures of our fierce and beloved Alexis. Seeing a character grow across a series is something truly wonderful to behold, and Alexis Carew more than most. From bright-eyed midshipman to battle-hardened Lieutenant, I didn't want to miss a word.
This book held my attention from beginning to end and came to a close faster than I would have liked. Alexis prevailed against the odds once again. In the process she, of course, took us on an incredible journey across a mud-filled armpit of a world and made me want more.
So thank you J.A. Sutherland for another gripping book. I look forward to the next!
Book six in the Alexis Carew series captured my interest and kept me hooked throughout this exciting adventure. Alexis, marooned on a planet ruled by pirates, seeks a means to free the spacers from a lost fleet that are enslaved here. No one knows of their plight, and she’s their only hope for freedom. With the motley band of survivors from her crashed ship, she allies with a few other stragglers and together they devise an incredible scheme to foil the enemy. Suspense, humor, and betrayal pepper this story that held me enthralled. I love this series that’s like a female Horatio Hornblower in space. Highly recommended.
Mr. Sutherland has a way of drawing the reader in, like few I have ever read. While a work of fiction, this is one of the best military series I've ever read. He reminds me of time spent in the barracks with my brothers, the love, the hate, the differences between officer and enlisted, and the true Brotherhood of belonging to something greater than yourself. I absolutely love this series and I cannot wait to see where it goes from here. Fan for life.
Mistakes: I found a few. Most are toward the end of the book. Plot: I like that the author takes a fact of actual history and builds an entirely new story around it. Characters: while her luck my be amazing, I like how the author doesn't make the MC into one of those characters that nothing seems to bother them. No matter how horrible the situation or loss the MC has a human reaction to it. This, I think is what keeps me coming back for more. 8/10
Just finished this one, luckily I came to it straight after finishing the 5th so didn’t need to worry about the cliff hanger!. When I started this one I wasn’t disappointed! Absolutely Brilliant! Kept me reading it from page to page, the story and the ending are captivating and the Final Chapter with a clearly Young Queen Victoria-figure being introduced was just the icing on the cake for me. Brilliant work, can’t wait for the next one!
While you can read many series out of order I wouldn't advise it for this series. Start by joining the authors group and getting his started pack, free up some time, lose your phone, find yourself a quiet comfy spot and start reading. You do need a love of science fiction and old navy adventures but as an avid reader (during lockdown 25 books a month) I found this series high on the list of must get the next one asap.
I enjoy this series and really can't decide why.....lol
It's a English type setting, ie language. I am still not sure I understand how the hell Masts could work, or rigging or the guns but the author spends way too much time explaining it every book. I love the story line. But going to go read the next one. So its a English space navy adventure drama with a bit of humor, I like it, its different, for change of pace, try it, not for steady diet of this for me, tho.
Alexis is sent far afield with few resources in this her latest adventure. Dynamite, in a very small package, she takes charge of rescuing an entire planetary system from lots of pirates. Co-opting command from very senior HMS officers, makes her Queen, the largest slaveholder in her Empire while running up an extremely large debt for her ruler. This series continues to please and hopefully will continue. After all, she is only 20.
Alexis once again finds herself in command of a privateer searching for pirates along the edges of Hanover space. Of course, she’s not heard the fate of Delaney, nor word of the fleet, so there’s an opportunity there. But, somehow, things go sideways with the pirates outnumbering the privateers and Carew stranded on the planet, it looks like there’s no way out. Another perfect situation for Alexis! Enjoy!
I must finally give Sutherland credit. Whilst I was greatly enjoying this series, I was concerned the comparison to David Weber’s “Honorverse” series was not valid. I apologize! The comparison is apt, although the tales are different. His series is more to the Horatio Hornblower and Alexander Kent milieu. Takes on more of the Napoleonic area of British Navy as underlying fabric. On to more!
Alexis Carew makes "odds makers" nervous... and anyone who tries to stop her dead or disgraced... all while being a thoroughly likeable ... incredibly naive ... simply unmindful that her plans might not succeed young woman.
This story (like many) leaves the door open to a sequel while bringing things to a very satisfying plateau
Second half of a two-parter. Alexis makes mistakes, fights her battles, and outfoxes men thrice her age to save herself, her crew, and thousands of her fellow spacers.
Bonus points for the sheer hilarious bawdiness of the sea shanty that tops most of the chapters.
Tightly plotted, lovely twists and turns, thoroughly believable and endearing heroine (if you don't believe me, read the author's historical notes, but do save them 'till you finish the book, or risk ruining some surprises). The universe of Alexis Carew has continued to be fascinating! I can hardly, just barely, quite impatiently wait for more!
Concise storytelling, with enough left out to hook you for the rest of the series. Descriptive writing helps you envision the dark shoals and the twists and turns dealing with pirates, foreign navies, on top or your own stuck up bureaucratic navy. Excellent story...lost many hours of sleep.
Alexis finds herself handed another bag of lemons out of which she makes lemonade. Finding herself in an untenable situation she takes actions that other officers would not. Severely wounded on a couple occasions she perseveres. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and want to read more about Alexis Carew, especially after the Queen's actions at an Admiralty Board meeting.
At first after reading the blurb and it being a book on planet not on a ship I held off reading it but i regret that now as it was my new favorite. LT Alexis Carew is back in the hot seat with plenty of action including lizards, pirates and fellow navy officers all fighting it out over a piece of mud. Fun!
What a great ride. I admit I was a bit nervous at the end of the previous book. Carew was in a tough spot, but as always she managed to swash and buckle her way out of trouble and into glory. I really love this series and can't wait for the next book.
As a finale to a space opera, this novel pulls out all the stops! With unforgettable characters, humor, ribald dialog, peril on every side, twists, and turns galore plus all the action that could possibly be stuck in so few pages, it is hard to imagine how the author will refuse to extend the career of Lieutenant Alexis Carew.
Once again we Alexis in it up to her ears, but she always seem to know where the sweet smelling roses are. Find herself on a task where she as normal has only part of the story. Alexis has to fight of pirate's and others to get her crew and ship to safety. Enjoyable read, we will have to wait and see what happens next.