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Interstellar Sheriff #3
Space Specter
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B07XGGNLHR
The Saloon Sector is the Federation’s official frontier, but beyond it lurks the Badstars. Bandits hide there. The Saloon Sector is Sheriff Max Smith’s territory. Since the revelation of his secret identity, life has changed for Max and Thelma. Their relationship is under increased pressure.
Admiral Astyages, newly appointed in command of the Frontier Fleet, manipulates them into joining a Navy expedition to map a safe route to the wormhole on the far side of the Badstars.
Alone in hostile territory and separated from their allies, Max and Thelma couldn’t be less prepared for their encounter with the legendary specters.
But it’s not the specters who’ll betray them.
The Saloon Sector is the Federation’s official frontier, but beyond it lurks the Badstars. Bandits hide there. The Saloon Sector is Sheriff Max Smith’s territory. Since the revelation of his secret identity, life has changed for Max and Thelma. Their relationship is under increased pressure.
Admiral Astyages, newly appointed in command of the Frontier Fleet, manipulates them into joining a Navy expedition to map a safe route to the wormhole on the far side of the Badstars.
Alone in hostile territory and separated from their allies, Max and Thelma couldn’t be less prepared for their encounter with the legendary specters.
But it’s not the specters who’ll betray them.
167 pages, ebook
First published February 3, 2020
466 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Schwartz
110 books567 followersAustralian science fiction and fantasy author.
Avid reader.
Jenny Schwartz has a degree in sociology and history, and a lifelong fascination with understanding people. Her character-driven science fiction and fantasy novels explore other worlds and how people navigate strange situations and complicated emotions, while retaining their sense of self. Her plots are twisty and unexpected.
***
I've curated my bookshelf to share books which I hope readers of Caldryn Parliament will enjoy. With the older books, please be aware that they are a product of their times and read with care.
Avid reader.
Jenny Schwartz has a degree in sociology and history, and a lifelong fascination with understanding people. Her character-driven science fiction and fantasy novels explore other worlds and how people navigate strange situations and complicated emotions, while retaining their sense of self. Her plots are twisty and unexpected.
***
I've curated my bookshelf to share books which I hope readers of Caldryn Parliament will enjoy. With the older books, please be aware that they are a product of their times and read with care.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
February 19, 2021
Very good! I can't wait for the next book!
June 27, 2021
Not as much fun as the first book of the series, but quite readable. There is a fourth book of the series out now: Space Baby.
January 29, 2025
Very exciting third entry in a wonderful SF, romantic-adventure series
The romance of Thelma and Max advances to marriage. But they are devastatingly betrayed by members of the naval fleet, and one of the most beloved characters in this series seems to have been murdered.
The number of people whom Thelma and Max consider their family of choice continues to expand. Thelma and Max are such amazing, compassionate, loyal and loving people.
I was on the edge of my seat with all of the exciting action in this story. I stayed up way past my bedtime because I couldn't bear to put this book down until I finished it.
I continue to absolutely adore this series.
The romance of Thelma and Max advances to marriage. But they are devastatingly betrayed by members of the naval fleet, and one of the most beloved characters in this series seems to have been murdered.
The number of people whom Thelma and Max consider their family of choice continues to expand. Thelma and Max are such amazing, compassionate, loyal and loving people.
I was on the edge of my seat with all of the exciting action in this story. I stayed up way past my bedtime because I couldn't bear to put this book down until I finished it.
I continue to absolutely adore this series.
January 23, 2022
This series is definitely worth taking the time to read!
Wow! What an awesome story! Extraordinary information regarding AI's. This story triggered a lot of emotions happy, sad, funny and a lot of hope!
Wow! What an awesome story! Extraordinary information regarding AI's. This story triggered a lot of emotions happy, sad, funny and a lot of hope!
July 15, 2025
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is the third book of the Interstellar Sheriff series. I think it is best for the series to be read in order. I thought the series was excellent and recommend it.
In this book, you learn more about the Ais that exist in the universe. Max, the sheriff, secretly has 2 AIs helping him. One, Lon, runs the spaceship and the other, Harry, is a mech (a human looking robot with intelligence). The book raises the interesting question of whether they are people are not. They are described as having a soul. Both Max and Thelma consider them to be friends, and the AI clearly care about them.
The Navy asks Max and Thelma to go with them on a mission to map a route to a wormhole. The wormhole is believed to connect to the world of the AI’s ancestors. However, the mission is a thinly veiled effort to take Lon, the AI, hostage.
Max, Thelma, and their friends, begin what they hope is a rescue mission. They find out about betrayal. The situation also tests AI loyalties. Are they more loyal to each other or to the people they work with?
This book alternates between Thelma and Max’s point of view.
I liked Thelma’s character. She is smart and resourceful. Max is a protector and very honorable and smart.
I liked the questions asked such as this one “Where is the line between prudence and fear?
The pace of the book is fast.
It would have been nice if the book included a map.
I bought the rest of the books in the series, and I look forward to reading them.
This book is the third book of the Interstellar Sheriff series. I think it is best for the series to be read in order. I thought the series was excellent and recommend it.
In this book, you learn more about the Ais that exist in the universe. Max, the sheriff, secretly has 2 AIs helping him. One, Lon, runs the spaceship and the other, Harry, is a mech (a human looking robot with intelligence). The book raises the interesting question of whether they are people are not. They are described as having a soul. Both Max and Thelma consider them to be friends, and the AI clearly care about them.
The Navy asks Max and Thelma to go with them on a mission to map a route to a wormhole. The wormhole is believed to connect to the world of the AI’s ancestors. However, the mission is a thinly veiled effort to take Lon, the AI, hostage.
Max, Thelma, and their friends, begin what they hope is a rescue mission. They find out about betrayal. The situation also tests AI loyalties. Are they more loyal to each other or to the people they work with?
This book alternates between Thelma and Max’s point of view.
I liked Thelma’s character. She is smart and resourceful. Max is a protector and very honorable and smart.
I liked the questions asked such as this one “Where is the line between prudence and fear?
The pace of the book is fast.
It would have been nice if the book included a map.
I bought the rest of the books in the series, and I look forward to reading them.
January 11, 2022
Betrayal
I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.
Now Max’s identity is known along with the presence of Lon aboard The Lonesome, life has changed. People are trying to manipulate Max and Thelma to obtain their goals, not caring how it affects them. When the Navy manipulates them into the Badlands, they know that there is something going on, but believe that they are in a position of strength that the Navy underestimates, with the assistance of the AIs. However, they couldn’t be more wrong.
This book was a bit of an emotional roller coaster. I felt a bit dazed in parts because I really didn’t see the punches coming, which is pretty much how the characters felt. As well as political and occupational problems, Max’s family in the shape of his younger sister has arrived in the sector intent on achieving her own ends. It all adds to the emotional stewpot.
However, Max and Thelma make new friends and gain new allies as they continue to create their chosen family. The AIs continue to be important to them and this places them in a unique position in The Federation, because they have knowledge that no other humans have about the way their society works.
This is a really good book, despite the emotionally charged parts. This has really turned into an excellent series.
I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.
Now Max’s identity is known along with the presence of Lon aboard The Lonesome, life has changed. People are trying to manipulate Max and Thelma to obtain their goals, not caring how it affects them. When the Navy manipulates them into the Badlands, they know that there is something going on, but believe that they are in a position of strength that the Navy underestimates, with the assistance of the AIs. However, they couldn’t be more wrong.
This book was a bit of an emotional roller coaster. I felt a bit dazed in parts because I really didn’t see the punches coming, which is pretty much how the characters felt. As well as political and occupational problems, Max’s family in the shape of his younger sister has arrived in the sector intent on achieving her own ends. It all adds to the emotional stewpot.
However, Max and Thelma make new friends and gain new allies as they continue to create their chosen family. The AIs continue to be important to them and this places them in a unique position in The Federation, because they have knowledge that no other humans have about the way their society works.
This is a really good book, despite the emotionally charged parts. This has really turned into an excellent series.
April 19, 2020
Loved this series. Great ending with an opening for more.
Max's sister and her fiance have come to the Saloon Sector. Paul has a abandoned space ship to explore and Cynn wanted to see her brother and meet Thelma in person. Things don't go as planned.
Max gets a surprise in his new boss.
The Navy pulls the Lonesome, along with Max and Thelma into an expedition. Harry has to stay behind.
Thelma's contacts warn the Navy is up to something. That something becomes a betrayal. Lon pays the price.
Thelma and Max get unexpected help from Neferiti, and her crew, to get justice for Lon. In their quest for justice, Max learns some bad and good things about his family of birth. Strengthens ties with his family of choice.
Great ending to the series. Really hope to see Space Baby next year.
Max's sister and her fiance have come to the Saloon Sector. Paul has a abandoned space ship to explore and Cynn wanted to see her brother and meet Thelma in person. Things don't go as planned.
Max gets a surprise in his new boss.
The Navy pulls the Lonesome, along with Max and Thelma into an expedition. Harry has to stay behind.
Thelma's contacts warn the Navy is up to something. That something becomes a betrayal. Lon pays the price.
Thelma and Max get unexpected help from Neferiti, and her crew, to get justice for Lon. In their quest for justice, Max learns some bad and good things about his family of birth. Strengthens ties with his family of choice.
Great ending to the series. Really hope to see Space Baby next year.
April 30, 2025
Oh Man
In this gripping narrative, the emotional depth of Max and Thelma's journey resonates powerfully. Their experiences unfold with raw intensity, revealing the complexities of human relationships and personal struggles. The familiar ensemble of characters is enriched by the introduction of Max's family, each bringing their own unique dynamics to the story. While Cynny's character remains somewhat ambiguous, her potential for growth adds an intriguing layer of tension. Max's older brother's family emerges as a beacon of warmth and support, providing a compelling counterpoint to the more challenging interpersonal interactions. The author's masterful world-building continues to captivate, creating a rich and immersive backdrop that elevates the narrative. With anticipation building, readers are left eagerly awaiting the next installment in this remarkable series.
In this gripping narrative, the emotional depth of Max and Thelma's journey resonates powerfully. Their experiences unfold with raw intensity, revealing the complexities of human relationships and personal struggles. The familiar ensemble of characters is enriched by the introduction of Max's family, each bringing their own unique dynamics to the story. While Cynny's character remains somewhat ambiguous, her potential for growth adds an intriguing layer of tension. Max's older brother's family emerges as a beacon of warmth and support, providing a compelling counterpoint to the more challenging interpersonal interactions. The author's masterful world-building continues to captivate, creating a rich and immersive backdrop that elevates the narrative. With anticipation building, readers are left eagerly awaiting the next installment in this remarkable series.
July 24, 2024
You Must Come With Us
InterstellarSheriff3
Didnt see that coming. Yay!
Everybody wants to check out the Lonesome, as if demand equals right to do so. Amazing.
Autonomy is an aspect of citizenship that is the first rung of liberty - that sentience makes personhood. But, autonomy is at the heart of this book; or rather, the assault on autonomy.
Whether it is a sibling trying to force relocation, or a cabal wanting to experiment, it is all about restricting someone else’s freedom, and the implication that their choices are less important than the will of the imposer.
Max and Thelma gain new allies in this book, and clarify some relationships. And, they manage manipulations very well. Sometimes, you have to let people stew in their own mess.
Now, onto Space Baby!
InterstellarSheriff3
Didnt see that coming. Yay!
Everybody wants to check out the Lonesome, as if demand equals right to do so. Amazing.
Autonomy is an aspect of citizenship that is the first rung of liberty - that sentience makes personhood. But, autonomy is at the heart of this book; or rather, the assault on autonomy.
Whether it is a sibling trying to force relocation, or a cabal wanting to experiment, it is all about restricting someone else’s freedom, and the implication that their choices are less important than the will of the imposer.
Max and Thelma gain new allies in this book, and clarify some relationships. And, they manage manipulations very well. Sometimes, you have to let people stew in their own mess.
Now, onto Space Baby!
June 8, 2020
Excellant, unique series
Each book of this series explored different components of future expansion while basing the components in humanity's clay feet. No matter how we grow in the future, we carry with us the seeds of our past. I so enjoyed Jenny Schwartz's ability to combine the wonderful view of the future with those niggly little human vices, greed, desire for power, racial bigotry and on and on. But, the best part is that in this series, Jenny Schwartz shows us that it is possible to advance and thrive while taking with us humanity's good side, love, friendship, family values and trust. I really would like to see a sequel, please!!!
Each book of this series explored different components of future expansion while basing the components in humanity's clay feet. No matter how we grow in the future, we carry with us the seeds of our past. I so enjoyed Jenny Schwartz's ability to combine the wonderful view of the future with those niggly little human vices, greed, desire for power, racial bigotry and on and on. But, the best part is that in this series, Jenny Schwartz shows us that it is possible to advance and thrive while taking with us humanity's good side, love, friendship, family values and trust. I really would like to see a sequel, please!!!
August 3, 2021
Fascinating space opera
Max, Lon (AI), and Thelma are persuaded by Space Navy to convince citizens of the Badland of peaceful intentions. However, the Lonesome is attack, Lon goes silent, and the life pod that Max and Thelma is lost. Later they find Lon is dead. Who murder the AI?
The characters are loyal, stubborn, and suspicous. The fast paced dramtic Space Opera goes in depth of characters' personalities. There is also a surprising twist at the end of the story. I couldn't figure out who murder Lon...I was surprised at the ending. I definitely want to read Space Baby if the author writes the story.
Highly recommended.
bookwormsuzy
Max, Lon (AI), and Thelma are persuaded by Space Navy to convince citizens of the Badland of peaceful intentions. However, the Lonesome is attack, Lon goes silent, and the life pod that Max and Thelma is lost. Later they find Lon is dead. Who murder the AI?
The characters are loyal, stubborn, and suspicous. The fast paced dramtic Space Opera goes in depth of characters' personalities. There is also a surprising twist at the end of the story. I couldn't figure out who murder Lon...I was surprised at the ending. I definitely want to read Space Baby if the author writes the story.
Highly recommended.
bookwormsuzy
June 28, 2020
A Wonderful Take On The “Species Condition”
If you’ve read the other two books in this fine series, you’re already familiar with many of the characters. The third installment introduces conflict as a family faces uncertainty and loss in the context of broader societal issues. Resolution involves trust in one another, and understanding that humanity is not species-specific. Start with the first in this series, read them through. You’ll enjoy the characters, and find yourself hoping the next installment to come along in due time. Hard sci-fi fans: Aliens! Lasers! AI! Space Battles!
If you’ve read the other two books in this fine series, you’re already familiar with many of the characters. The third installment introduces conflict as a family faces uncertainty and loss in the context of broader societal issues. Resolution involves trust in one another, and understanding that humanity is not species-specific. Start with the first in this series, read them through. You’ll enjoy the characters, and find yourself hoping the next installment to come along in due time. Hard sci-fi fans: Aliens! Lasers! AI! Space Battles!
August 1, 2020
Space baby please
This was good but frustrating. The ending was so rushed and many threads left unresolved such as Max’s relationships with his family and what happens to the Navy’s reputation. I feel like this spent too much time on unrevealing the conspiracy but missed the key success of the story the relationships. Without Lon and the spectre of grief this was a tough read. It felt like a plot trick at the end, nor did him letting them grieve and be in danger seem consistent with his character.
This was good but frustrating. The ending was so rushed and many threads left unresolved such as Max’s relationships with his family and what happens to the Navy’s reputation. I feel like this spent too much time on unrevealing the conspiracy but missed the key success of the story the relationships. Without Lon and the spectre of grief this was a tough read. It felt like a plot trick at the end, nor did him letting them grieve and be in danger seem consistent with his character.
October 4, 2020
Great Book, Great Series
Thelma, Max, and Lon are co-opted into a joint mission with the Navy. Thelma receives a warning that the Navy may have other motivation. Sacrifice ensues. I like the action, humor, and romance. Family (both blood and chosen) relationships are brought to the fore. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and series. It kept my interest throughout my binge read of the series. Sadly this book is the last of the series, with the hopeful possibility of "Space Baby" in the future.
Thelma, Max, and Lon are co-opted into a joint mission with the Navy. Thelma receives a warning that the Navy may have other motivation. Sacrifice ensues. I like the action, humor, and romance. Family (both blood and chosen) relationships are brought to the fore. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and series. It kept my interest throughout my binge read of the series. Sadly this book is the last of the series, with the hopeful possibility of "Space Baby" in the future.
February 12, 2020
Max and Thelma return and go one a new adventure. They know something is off about the journey they are about to take but just cannot find out what until the unthinkable happens. This has all the elements that a great story needs. There is danger, tension, romance and a great plot with some very unexpected twists. Hope this is not the last. I love the series and would love to see another story featuring the new baby. (Are you listening Jenny Schwartz)
December 13, 2024
I loved this book!
I thought the first book was amazing. This one is even better. I loved the whole background social commentary, on many different levels. Not preachy, but definitely a wonderful weaving of “different isn’t scary, it’s just different”.
I cannot wait to read Space Baby. It’s been a LONG time since I was impatient to start the next book! Thank you Ms. Schwartz from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!
I thought the first book was amazing. This one is even better. I loved the whole background social commentary, on many different levels. Not preachy, but definitely a wonderful weaving of “different isn’t scary, it’s just different”.
I cannot wait to read Space Baby. It’s been a LONG time since I was impatient to start the next book! Thank you Ms. Schwartz from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!
February 7, 2020
Excellent Space Adventure Series
I really enjoyed this series, loved the relationship between Max, Thelma and the AI's. Please do a Space baby book. Loved how Max and Thelmas's relationship was so rock solid. Always had each other's back. Look forward to reading more of her books.
I really enjoyed this series, loved the relationship between Max, Thelma and the AI's. Please do a Space baby book. Loved how Max and Thelmas's relationship was so rock solid. Always had each other's back. Look forward to reading more of her books.
February 29, 2020
So enjoyable
Learning and thinking of a future Space Baby makes me smile. Max and Thelma will be really good guardians of that occurs.
Finding so many actions were done in fear or attempting to get ahead really made me mad and sad. I honestly wonder how that dynamic will play out in the future.
Learning and thinking of a future Space Baby makes me smile. Max and Thelma will be really good guardians of that occurs.
Finding so many actions were done in fear or attempting to get ahead really made me mad and sad. I honestly wonder how that dynamic will play out in the future.
June 12, 2020
5 Stars
A fantastic story (and series) that was so good you are sad the world created has ended. The author has done a wonderful job of making the books true standalone reads, however the world created is so good and the interactions between the characters so well done you will want to read all three to savor the experience.
A fantastic story (and series) that was so good you are sad the world created has ended. The author has done a wonderful job of making the books true standalone reads, however the world created is so good and the interactions between the characters so well done you will want to read all three to savor the experience.
June 22, 2020
Wow! Unexpected activities!
You have to ask?! Of course I want more Interstellar Sheriff! Or maybe a new offshoot?
Loved “seeing” my favorite characters again. Sorry the story seemed to go so quickly, though. Wanted to spend longer with them.
If you liked the previous two books in the series, you’ll be pretty happy with time spent on this one, too.
You have to ask?! Of course I want more Interstellar Sheriff! Or maybe a new offshoot?
Loved “seeing” my favorite characters again. Sorry the story seemed to go so quickly, though. Wanted to spend longer with them.
If you liked the previous two books in the series, you’ll be pretty happy with time spent on this one, too.
July 13, 2020
No spoiler here.
I read the first two some time ago but didn't buy then. But this 3rd one is new to me. I decided to buy all three and am glad I did. I did not expect the storyline in anyway. Love the book, you really need to read the first two n order before reading this one. Not going to ruin it because I hate when people do that. Yes, I want Space Baby.
I read the first two some time ago but didn't buy then. But this 3rd one is new to me. I decided to buy all three and am glad I did. I did not expect the storyline in anyway. Love the book, you really need to read the first two n order before reading this one. Not going to ruin it because I hate when people do that. Yes, I want Space Baby.
July 29, 2020
Yes to space baby!
I quite like this series, I do skip along past some of the parts that to me is headache inducing due to information overload on a point. But I am a lazy reader. I don’t need such in-depth detail to get a picture or concept, and I loose the original reason that the point all the excess info was being given for lol!
I quite like this series, I do skip along past some of the parts that to me is headache inducing due to information overload on a point. But I am a lazy reader. I don’t need such in-depth detail to get a picture or concept, and I loose the original reason that the point all the excess info was being given for lol!
September 26, 2021
Wow! What more is there to say?
The sequel was full of twists and turns. Faced with the death of s beloved friend, all factions responded differently. We get to meet and know more about Max's family and the political scene. What I want most now is to delve into Space Baby; fortunately, for me, it has already released.
The sequel was full of twists and turns. Faced with the death of s beloved friend, all factions responded differently. We get to meet and know more about Max's family and the political scene. What I want most now is to delve into Space Baby; fortunately, for me, it has already released.
March 7, 2022
Wow
This has been a jump in the series! Character development, or evolution, trauma drama, BETRAYAL in the highest order, and tears from our characters and the reader (depending on how closely you relate). I am so anticipating number 4. There are many story tentacles to get excited about.
This has been a jump in the series! Character development, or evolution, trauma drama, BETRAYAL in the highest order, and tears from our characters and the reader (depending on how closely you relate). I am so anticipating number 4. There are many story tentacles to get excited about.
October 21, 2022
I cried. wow - what a story!!!!!
Ok, so I got a little emotional. It was a really good story. I’ve binged this series of novels. I was disappointed at first that these stories didn’t follow Thelma individually, but I’ve really enjoyed them. I see now how the stories have been weaved and have really enjoyed them!
Ok, so I got a little emotional. It was a really good story. I’ve binged this series of novels. I was disappointed at first that these stories didn’t follow Thelma individually, but I’ve really enjoyed them. I see now how the stories have been weaved and have really enjoyed them!
November 5, 2023
Space Specter, the third book of the Interstellar Sheriff series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). Yep, Schwartz did it again with another great plot line and excellent wrap up to the mysteries of the legendary specters…then we are presented with a zinger at the end. Queue up for book four.
February 6, 2020
Space Baby
Yup, writing this review mostly to encourage that book. I've enjoyed all three books. The world/universe is fun and well designed, the characters interesting and fully developed, and story lines and plots hang together individually as well as throughout the arc.
Yup, writing this review mostly to encourage that book. I've enjoyed all three books. The world/universe is fun and well designed, the characters interesting and fully developed, and story lines and plots hang together individually as well as throughout the arc.
March 1, 2020
Great Story
I love stories. The characters and their behavior and emotions make them believable and interesting. I 'm glad Max and Thelma had a happy ending. I hope to see Space Baby later.
I love stories. The characters and their behavior and emotions make them believable and interesting. I 'm glad Max and Thelma had a happy ending. I hope to see Space Baby later.
March 26, 2021
Great read
I have enjoyed this series a lot. Characters are individuals that could have their own story with information on their history and I would find it interesting. Thanks to J Schwartz for sharing.
I have enjoyed this series a lot. Characters are individuals that could have their own story with information on their history and I would find it interesting. Thanks to J Schwartz for sharing.
September 4, 2021
Fantastic conclusion to great series
I loved the characters in this story and their interactions with one another. Great pacing of the story, intrigue, it all kept me wanting more. And I really hope Space Baby comes out soon!
I loved the characters in this story and their interactions with one another. Great pacing of the story, intrigue, it all kept me wanting more. And I really hope Space Baby comes out soon!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews