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Son of the shaman is a shaman.
But what of the daughters?
When Otto Krugg's daughter follows in his footsteps,, he's faced with the task of changing a century long rule that will force her to make decisions no one should have to make.
When Jimmy Pirano gets tasked with enforcing that rule - no matter what - he goes down the rabbit hole to try to find out who established the rule. And why they can't let it go.
But what of the daughters?
When Otto Krugg's daughter follows in his footsteps,, he's faced with the task of changing a century long rule that will force her to make decisions no one should have to make.
When Jimmy Pirano gets tasked with enforcing that rule - no matter what - he goes down the rabbit hole to try to find out who established the rule. And why they can't let it go.
353 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2020
234 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Nathan Lowell
46 books1,633 followersNathan Lowell has been a writer for more than forty years, and first entered the literary world by podcasting his novels. His sci-fi series, The Golden Age of the Solar Clipper grew from his long time fascination with space opera and his own experiences shipboard in the United States Coast Guard. Unlike most works which focus on a larger-than-life hero (prophesized savior, charismatic captain, or exiled prince), Nathan centers on the people behind the scenes--ordinary men and women trying to make a living in the depths of space. In his novels, there are no bug-eyed monsters, or galactic space battles, instead he paints a richly vivid and realistic world where the "hero" uses hard work and his own innate talents to improve his station and the lives of those of his community.
Dr. Nathan Lowell holds a Ph.D. in Educational Technology with specializations in Distance Education and Instructional Design. He also holds an M.A. in Educational Technology and a BS in Business Administration. He grew up on the south coast of Maine and is strongly rooted in the maritime heritage of the sea-farer. He served in the USCG from 1970 to 1975, seeing duty aboard a cutter on hurricane patrol in the North Atlantic and at a communications station in Kodiak, Alaska. He currently lives in the plains east of the Rocky Mountains with his wife and two daughters.
Awards & Recognition
2008 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for Full Share
2008 Podiobooks Founder's Choice Award for Double Share
2008 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for South Coast
2009 Podiobooks Founder's Choice Award for Captain's Share
2009 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for Double Share
4 out of 10 Books on Podiobooks.com Top Overall Rated by Votes (2. Double Share, 3. Quarter Share, 5. Full Share, 8. Half Share) -- as of Jan 4, 2009
6 out of 10 Books on Podiobooks.com Top Overall Rating (1. Ravenwood, 2. Quarter Share, 3. Double share, 4. Captain's Share, 5. Full Share, 7. South Coast) -- as of Jan 4, 2009
Dr. Nathan Lowell holds a Ph.D. in Educational Technology with specializations in Distance Education and Instructional Design. He also holds an M.A. in Educational Technology and a BS in Business Administration. He grew up on the south coast of Maine and is strongly rooted in the maritime heritage of the sea-farer. He served in the USCG from 1970 to 1975, seeing duty aboard a cutter on hurricane patrol in the North Atlantic and at a communications station in Kodiak, Alaska. He currently lives in the plains east of the Rocky Mountains with his wife and two daughters.
Awards & Recognition
2008 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for Full Share
2008 Podiobooks Founder's Choice Award for Double Share
2008 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for South Coast
2009 Podiobooks Founder's Choice Award for Captain's Share
2009 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for Double Share
4 out of 10 Books on Podiobooks.com Top Overall Rated by Votes (2. Double Share, 3. Quarter Share, 5. Full Share, 8. Half Share) -- as of Jan 4, 2009
6 out of 10 Books on Podiobooks.com Top Overall Rating (1. Ravenwood, 2. Quarter Share, 3. Double share, 4. Captain's Share, 5. Full Share, 7. South Coast) -- as of Jan 4, 2009
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 6, 2020
I did not enjoy this story. It fills in the background of Sarah, one of the Solar Clipper books characters. But it was heart rending.
March 8, 2020
Another Wonderful Nathan Lowell Story
Dr. Lowell is one of those rare authors whose word craft grabs at your emotions. It's the story of a woman born with Shaman gifts who cannot be recognized with the Shaman title because of her gender. It left me sad and frustrated because of the injustice and the abuse she receives.
All is not lost however, because her story continues in Half Share and Full Share, books in another Lowell series set in the same universe. So, I went back to read those books again and then the rest of the Trader's Tales of the Solar Clippers and then... but that's just how compelling I find Nathan's writing to be. So here's a warning - don't read this book unless you're prepared to go back and read how Sarah Krugg turned out. Cape Grace is merely the back story of a fabulous character.
Dr. Lowell is one of those rare authors whose word craft grabs at your emotions. It's the story of a woman born with Shaman gifts who cannot be recognized with the Shaman title because of her gender. It left me sad and frustrated because of the injustice and the abuse she receives.
All is not lost however, because her story continues in Half Share and Full Share, books in another Lowell series set in the same universe. So, I went back to read those books again and then the rest of the Trader's Tales of the Solar Clippers and then... but that's just how compelling I find Nathan's writing to be. So here's a warning - don't read this book unless you're prepared to go back and read how Sarah Krugg turned out. Cape Grace is merely the back story of a fabulous character.
January 26, 2020
This story is about Otto (from South Coast, but now an adult) and his daughter Sarah. This is the same Sarah we met in Half Share which meant that I already knew a summary of her backstory. I probably would have enjoyed it more if I hadn’t known how it would end.
I’m glad I read it, but I doubt I’ll ever reread it. It’s not a comfortable story.
I’m glad I read it, but I doubt I’ll ever reread it. It’s not a comfortable story.
May 4, 2020
Disappointed with the cynicism
I have loved Nathan Lowell's books for their care for the remarkable lives of ordinary people. And I have cherished the optimism which overcomes obstacles and setbacks. And the central characters care for and forgive each other. This book does not do those things. A dozen people make unnecessarily closed minded decisions ending in pain and heartache. Maybe this is all redeemed in a later book, but it doesn't help this book.
I have loved Nathan Lowell's books for their care for the remarkable lives of ordinary people. And I have cherished the optimism which overcomes obstacles and setbacks. And the central characters care for and forgive each other. This book does not do those things. A dozen people make unnecessarily closed minded decisions ending in pain and heartache. Maybe this is all redeemed in a later book, but it doesn't help this book.
January 28, 2020
I should wait for the release of the eBook edition... but, I've just finished reading the beta version and here's what I think... The ebook now released and I've updated my review. But, really there wasn't much to add... other than saying that the final version is a fuller, richer, and darker story...
I Absolutely LOVED this book!!! I believe this is probably the best book that Nathan Lowell has ever written, but then, I'll probably say the same thing about his next book! Lol.
Initially I had 2 concerns regarding the book:
1) Would it just feel like bridge taking me from the South Coast to the mess deck of the Lois McKendrick? Nope! I quickly found I could safely put that fear to bed. I should have known that Nathan's too good of an author to do that to his readers. This book has a whole complete storyline and that's the way it's supposed to be!
2) I had feared how dark the story might end up. Sarah's relationships with Otto, and her more turbulent issue's with Bobby had me dreading a violent, graphic outcome. Instead of that happening, the action took place "off stage", and that I could handle!
I have to say... the ending was so powerful that I was reduced to tears!
I cried for Otto, for his losses, and for his decision to move forward and stop looking back!
I cried for Sarah, her pain, and her need to go forward, even if it means facing the unknown alone, but with a very, very special whelkie to help guide her along.
... And selfishly I cried for me, because there was no more words! Of course there's more words as I can always re-read Half Share, which up 'til now was our first introduction to Sarah!
I listen to Nathan's morning podcasts, and he's admitted that there is one more story to tell in this series, so we're really going to be in for a treat!
I know that this Shamans tale was hard for Nathan Lowell to write (again I've listened to his podcasts), but he soldiered on, and I for one, am so happy that he did so! I'll read whatever Nathan writes, and when he's ready to come back to St. Cloud and write the last Shamans Tales, I'll be here waiting!
Favorite quote from the story: "The voice of the world soon engulfed her... the quiet words of the gulls mixing with the hollow rush of wind over her ears, and the rhythmic susurration of sea over sand."
I Absolutely LOVED this book!!! I believe this is probably the best book that Nathan Lowell has ever written, but then, I'll probably say the same thing about his next book! Lol.
Initially I had 2 concerns regarding the book:
1) Would it just feel like bridge taking me from the South Coast to the mess deck of the Lois McKendrick? Nope! I quickly found I could safely put that fear to bed. I should have known that Nathan's too good of an author to do that to his readers. This book has a whole complete storyline and that's the way it's supposed to be!
2) I had feared how dark the story might end up. Sarah's relationships with Otto, and her more turbulent issue's with Bobby had me dreading a violent, graphic outcome. Instead of that happening, the action took place "off stage", and that I could handle!
I have to say... the ending was so powerful that I was reduced to tears!
I cried for Otto, for his losses, and for his decision to move forward and stop looking back!
I cried for Sarah, her pain, and her need to go forward, even if it means facing the unknown alone, but with a very, very special whelkie to help guide her along.
... And selfishly I cried for me, because there was no more words! Of course there's more words as I can always re-read Half Share, which up 'til now was our first introduction to Sarah!
I listen to Nathan's morning podcasts, and he's admitted that there is one more story to tell in this series, so we're really going to be in for a treat!
I know that this Shamans tale was hard for Nathan Lowell to write (again I've listened to his podcasts), but he soldiered on, and I for one, am so happy that he did so! I'll read whatever Nathan writes, and when he's ready to come back to St. Cloud and write the last Shamans Tales, I'll be here waiting!
Favorite quote from the story: "The voice of the world soon engulfed her... the quiet words of the gulls mixing with the hollow rush of wind over her ears, and the rhythmic susurration of sea over sand."
June 15, 2023
Loved the author's slice of life narration, but honestly, the story was too depressing, and I felt terrible for Sarah. :( I hadn't realize that this was her backstory as a character in Half Share. There were unfortunate parenting decisions all around.
December 11, 2025
The backstory of an old favourite from Half Share, Sarah Krugg, the abused woman who came aboard as mess attendant as Ish moved to engineering. A story that many women can relate to and should never have to live through. It helps that we all know she found a home on the Lois McKendrick.
December 7, 2024
The ending left me so sad.... I want to read book three to get the happy ending, but I'm also afraid there's won't be one.
Much of the story is a father and daughter trying to keep connected after the mother passes away during the daughters birth. But with a scifi and shamanistic bent to it. It also shares the complexities of family dynamics. Sometimes we want what's best but we don't know what that is. Sometimes we think we do and it ends up hurting the person instead. And sometimes we try but things fall apart anyway.
Just overall a beautiful and sad tale.
Much of the story is a father and daughter trying to keep connected after the mother passes away during the daughters birth. But with a scifi and shamanistic bent to it. It also shares the complexities of family dynamics. Sometimes we want what's best but we don't know what that is. Sometimes we think we do and it ends up hurting the person instead. And sometimes we try but things fall apart anyway.
Just overall a beautiful and sad tale.
August 23, 2022
Im a big Nathan Lowell fan. His writing is so comforting and its just so cozy to curl up with one of his books. Ive read most of his published novels and while there are definite problems with some, overall, I find his books to be like comfort-food.
The first one I ever read was South Coast, and I had no idea what to make of it at the time, but it left me warm and fuzzy, so I was pleased to see the saga continued.
When I got “readers-block” during the pandemic and couldn’t bring myself to pick up a book for 9 months (Im usually a 3 or 4 books a month reader or more) I decided to turn to one of my favorite authors to cure me, thinking it would ease me back into reading with a relaxing, low-stakes story about someone changing a lightbulb, inventing a new kind of fishing lure or perfecting a stew recipe.
I read the first page of Cape Grace, said “Nope. Fuck you. Nope.” threw my tablet across the living-room and put on Netflix. It was another 9 months before I tried to pick up another book.
I’ve finally gotten around to actually reading this one. Once I got over how the story starts, I warmed up to it. Comforting, familiar landscapes, same-ole adorably frustrating bureaucracy, meaningfully relatable characters…
But with less of the soothing problem-solving I’ve come to expect. I didn’t like how it started and didn’t like how it ended.
I will read the third in the trilogy because I can forgive all that and I respect the different directions he goes… I mean, I get what he was going for and that’s powerful, even if I wasn’t too keen on it.
Here’s hoping some things get better resolution in Finwell Bay, but Im intrigued enough either way.
The first one I ever read was South Coast, and I had no idea what to make of it at the time, but it left me warm and fuzzy, so I was pleased to see the saga continued.
When I got “readers-block” during the pandemic and couldn’t bring myself to pick up a book for 9 months (Im usually a 3 or 4 books a month reader or more) I decided to turn to one of my favorite authors to cure me, thinking it would ease me back into reading with a relaxing, low-stakes story about someone changing a lightbulb, inventing a new kind of fishing lure or perfecting a stew recipe.
I read the first page of Cape Grace, said “Nope. Fuck you. Nope.” threw my tablet across the living-room and put on Netflix. It was another 9 months before I tried to pick up another book.
I’ve finally gotten around to actually reading this one. Once I got over how the story starts, I warmed up to it. Comforting, familiar landscapes, same-ole adorably frustrating bureaucracy, meaningfully relatable characters…
But with less of the soothing problem-solving I’ve come to expect. I didn’t like how it started and didn’t like how it ended.
I will read the third in the trilogy because I can forgive all that and I respect the different directions he goes… I mean, I get what he was going for and that’s powerful, even if I wasn’t too keen on it.
Here’s hoping some things get better resolution in Finwell Bay, but Im intrigued enough either way.
October 5, 2021
Not what I was expecting.
First, Nathan Lowell is one of my favorite sci-fi writers, so I kinda feel like I should justify the 3 stars. The thing is Mr. Lowell's stuff is usually light, and rich, low on drama and angst, and if not funny per se, it's usually fun and interesting, not a lot of end of the world scenarios and lose/lose depressing situations, is much more like a positive take on how real life would be in the future you know?
This series, and specially this book is different from all the others I've read so far. It isn't really bad, it's just sad, it touches a bit on abuse, fells overall kinda hopeless and the characters are in a bad and complicated situation. Nothing wrong with none of that really, I just wasn't expecting it, and didn't much like it.
So, if you are wondering if you should read this book, ask yourself if you like drama, and there is your answer.
First, Nathan Lowell is one of my favorite sci-fi writers, so I kinda feel like I should justify the 3 stars. The thing is Mr. Lowell's stuff is usually light, and rich, low on drama and angst, and if not funny per se, it's usually fun and interesting, not a lot of end of the world scenarios and lose/lose depressing situations, is much more like a positive take on how real life would be in the future you know?
This series, and specially this book is different from all the others I've read so far. It isn't really bad, it's just sad, it touches a bit on abuse, fells overall kinda hopeless and the characters are in a bad and complicated situation. Nothing wrong with none of that really, I just wasn't expecting it, and didn't much like it.
So, if you are wondering if you should read this book, ask yourself if you like drama, and there is your answer.
September 4, 2021
While I usually enjoy Nathan Lowell's books and writing, in this case I found that the story was unrelentingly depressing without hope for a positive outcome. Some of this comes from having read "Half Share" and "knowing" the likely outcome, but it was also in how the story was presented and ended. Especially in these days of covid, I prefer to read stories that have characters who ultimately triumph, something I didn't get here.
February 3, 2020
Warning: Probable spoilers ahead!
This is one of Lowell's better books. Seeing how it fits in between South Coast and Half Share, it's an important part of the canon and, from my perspective, a long time in coming and worth the wait. We always knew there was a connection between young Otto (South Coast) and the battered woman Ishmael meets on the docks at St. Cloud orbital (Half Share) and now we know more. Almost too much.
Most of my questions around the shaman religion (?) get answered, including: 1) how is it organized (what's organization?), 2) is it known that there isn't always a strong coupling between title and gift, and 3) a deeper dive into what we know, imagine and believe about whelkies.
Oh, and listening to the world. I think the reader ends up knowing as much about that idea as most St. Cloud gifted shamans do.
And during this book we also get to explore the slipperiness of right and wrong, concepts of fairness, correctness and the idea of something being conscionable.
There are also quite a few questions that are left unanswered, leaving the series open for possible plot advancement and closure. Who was the first shaman? What's the full connection with the elder Pirano? I suspect that Jimmy will want to know. And I doubt the grievances will stop. And then there's his new assistant.
I think what I most crave, however, is a full reconciliation between father and daughter. That is the conflict that leaves me most deflated.
If you've read any of Lowell's other books, you know to expect a deep dive into his universe, experiencing its reality in very thorough and detailed ways. I wasn't at all surprised when I felt myself experiencing the unmistakable smell of a fishing fleet. Perhaps I should have been, but I wasn't.
I look forward to reading Cape Grace again and again.
This is one of Lowell's better books. Seeing how it fits in between South Coast and Half Share, it's an important part of the canon and, from my perspective, a long time in coming and worth the wait. We always knew there was a connection between young Otto (South Coast) and the battered woman Ishmael meets on the docks at St. Cloud orbital (Half Share) and now we know more. Almost too much.
Most of my questions around the shaman religion (?) get answered, including: 1) how is it organized (what's organization?), 2) is it known that there isn't always a strong coupling between title and gift, and 3) a deeper dive into what we know, imagine and believe about whelkies.
Oh, and listening to the world. I think the reader ends up knowing as much about that idea as most St. Cloud gifted shamans do.
And during this book we also get to explore the slipperiness of right and wrong, concepts of fairness, correctness and the idea of something being conscionable.
There are also quite a few questions that are left unanswered, leaving the series open for possible plot advancement and closure. Who was the first shaman? What's the full connection with the elder Pirano? I suspect that Jimmy will want to know. And I doubt the grievances will stop. And then there's his new assistant.
I think what I most crave, however, is a full reconciliation between father and daughter. That is the conflict that leaves me most deflated.
If you've read any of Lowell's other books, you know to expect a deep dive into his universe, experiencing its reality in very thorough and detailed ways. I wasn't at all surprised when I felt myself experiencing the unmistakable smell of a fishing fleet. Perhaps I should have been, but I wasn't.
I look forward to reading Cape Grace again and again.
November 22, 2020
We made a mistake! We love Nathan Lowell's books but somehow we skipped Cape Grace. Well, easily corrected.
It is more a pastoral story than a SciFi. No real villains, although some people are dramatically flawed and others are weak and fail to think ahead. Just like real life. Classic Nathan Lowell book. The corporate head, Jimmy Pirano is the boss we would have loved to have. Caring, and works hard for his employees, to the extent his home office allows. But his home office (his father) doesn't allow. In fact, Jimmy realizes having female shaman is a no-go for his dad. Fortunately, this will get resolved in the next (last??) book of this series. The other main character, Otto Krug, is a shaman who basically just hangs around, listening to the world and carves. Otto sees the train wreck coming and just watches. The same for his daughter, Sarah, the other major character, standing in front of the oncoming train. Her strategy is to move from one on-coming train to a second - telegraphed in a very early chapter and repeated in almost every future chapter.
Weaknesses: This appears to take place a number of centuries from now. However, there is no radio, Google, TV nor computers. Technology is barely above wood burning stoves. The only entertainment is drinking. 'Elders' are instantly obeyed. For example, Otto never gets a real job, only living a substance existence. Why? The 'elder' says it may affect other shaman, also not allowed anything but a substance existence. The 'elder' and Otto are completely inept in helping Sarah, who is written as a shaman seen once a century. I repeatedly felt like smacking the shaman on their heads. Hey dummy, sell your carvings (whelkies) for some cash. Help people. Give a weather report to the fishermen.
Strengths: Real people, incredibly developed. Lowell paints an incredible painting of life. It is clearly based on small town Maine, his original home. You can almost taste the foods, simple but wonderful food, either prepared at home or in each town's 'diners'. Food for the people. Although you can also taste Sarah's first experience with exotic ramen. This book deviates from Nathan's other book - people visit and drink tea, not coffee. Every visit, to someone's home or office, centers around a solid ceramic mug of tea. Every visit. I would love to live in these rustic towns. Well, at least for a week.
It is more a pastoral story than a SciFi. No real villains, although some people are dramatically flawed and others are weak and fail to think ahead. Just like real life. Classic Nathan Lowell book. The corporate head, Jimmy Pirano is the boss we would have loved to have. Caring, and works hard for his employees, to the extent his home office allows. But his home office (his father) doesn't allow. In fact, Jimmy realizes having female shaman is a no-go for his dad. Fortunately, this will get resolved in the next (last??) book of this series. The other main character, Otto Krug, is a shaman who basically just hangs around, listening to the world and carves. Otto sees the train wreck coming and just watches. The same for his daughter, Sarah, the other major character, standing in front of the oncoming train. Her strategy is to move from one on-coming train to a second - telegraphed in a very early chapter and repeated in almost every future chapter.
Weaknesses: This appears to take place a number of centuries from now. However, there is no radio, Google, TV nor computers. Technology is barely above wood burning stoves. The only entertainment is drinking. 'Elders' are instantly obeyed. For example, Otto never gets a real job, only living a substance existence. Why? The 'elder' says it may affect other shaman, also not allowed anything but a substance existence. The 'elder' and Otto are completely inept in helping Sarah, who is written as a shaman seen once a century. I repeatedly felt like smacking the shaman on their heads. Hey dummy, sell your carvings (whelkies) for some cash. Help people. Give a weather report to the fishermen.
Strengths: Real people, incredibly developed. Lowell paints an incredible painting of life. It is clearly based on small town Maine, his original home. You can almost taste the foods, simple but wonderful food, either prepared at home or in each town's 'diners'. Food for the people. Although you can also taste Sarah's first experience with exotic ramen. This book deviates from Nathan's other book - people visit and drink tea, not coffee. Every visit, to someone's home or office, centers around a solid ceramic mug of tea. Every visit. I would love to live in these rustic towns. Well, at least for a week.
September 6, 2022
Scifi isn't exactly right, nor is fantasy - but there are scifi elements here (space stations), while other elements (shamanism) are presented simply as a thing that is, with no real supernatural background.
And, we meet Sarah Krugg and learn about her early life. It's been so long since I've read Double Share that I can't remember much about her, but I remembered enough to go hunting and figure out that yes, she is a character in the golden age of the solar clipper (the ishmael series).
I'm a bit conflicted on the last several chapters. In some ways, it feels almost like Sarah's suffering here is a character building experience for her father, which is a bit too much GRRM. But, it is also a bit unclear what exactly happened.
Maybe the problem is that I don't remember the Sarah from Double Share. But I can't help but look at this and think it didn't have to be a terrible marriage - it could have been a neutral marriage, or even a good one, and still had the same impact on Sarah and same ending. Maybe. As I said, it's been a while since Double Share for me, but I still am not sure that particular torture was aimed at the right darling.
And, we meet Sarah Krugg and learn about her early life. It's been so long since I've read Double Share that I can't remember much about her, but I remembered enough to go hunting and figure out that yes, she is a character in the golden age of the solar clipper (the ishmael series).
I'm a bit conflicted on the last several chapters. In some ways, it feels almost like Sarah's suffering here is a character building experience for her father, which is a bit too much GRRM. But, it is also a bit unclear what exactly happened.
Maybe the problem is that I don't remember the Sarah from Double Share. But I can't help but look at this and think it didn't have to be a terrible marriage - it could have been a neutral marriage, or even a good one, and still had the same impact on Sarah and same ending. Maybe. As I said, it's been a while since Double Share for me, but I still am not sure that particular torture was aimed at the right darling.
March 5, 2020
This is the story of Sarah Krugg and her father. We met Sarah in the first couple books of the Ishmael Wang series, Quarter Share and Half Share. Raised by her shaman father, Sarah has the gift, but the rules say she cannot be a shaman because she is female. The rules also say she must leave the planet when she turns 18 unless she has a job with the corporation or is married to an employee. This is a well told story, engrossing and full of warm emotion and engaging characters.
July 19, 2020
The Lack of Resolution is Frustrating
Mainly this is the story of a South Coast Shaman and his young daughter, continuing the story of Otto Krug which began in South Coast. As the story progresses, we see Sarah grow into a young woman and a gifted shaman, except that by tradition and company charter, on the son of a shaman can become a shaman. There are a few legal tests of this practice throughout the story, and we meet a number of wise women who are shamans in all but name. That's the resolution I didn't get. Hopefully Mr. Lowell will revisit the South Coast at some point, and provide us some closure. It's a delightful book, not terribly unpredictable, but exactly what I needed to read right now.
Mainly this is the story of a South Coast Shaman and his young daughter, continuing the story of Otto Krug which began in South Coast. As the story progresses, we see Sarah grow into a young woman and a gifted shaman, except that by tradition and company charter, on the son of a shaman can become a shaman. There are a few legal tests of this practice throughout the story, and we meet a number of wise women who are shamans in all but name. That's the resolution I didn't get. Hopefully Mr. Lowell will revisit the South Coast at some point, and provide us some closure. It's a delightful book, not terribly unpredictable, but exactly what I needed to read right now.
January 12, 2021
It's hard to read a book about a character who you know is coming to a less than happy end, especially when they're so endearing in the lead-up to it. This book works so well to show us how Sarah grew up, who she was destined to be, and how it all went wrong despite all the forces on her world working in her favor. A single word from a far-off magnate turns her onto a completely different course, and we never do really find out how she ends up. We know she'll be OK in Ishmael's early life, but it seems a shame for such a well rounded and engaging character to become the background and character development for someone else. I guess what I'm saying is I want to see her life after she leaves the Lois as well!
February 24, 2022
Poetical, Heartfelt, Sci-fi
Being a Shaman. Dealing with people's emotions and hearing the currents underneath the words and actions. This second book in the series follows Sarah's difficult decisions and the outcomes.
The writing and imagery is beautiful and I really enjoyed it. The story was heartrending in many ways, but very satisfying. It Ts into another Solar Clipper series by Nathan Lowell at about the second book, I think.
I read that series first, so I already had a clue which way this story would go. If you don't want to know the end ahead of time, you should read this series first.
I would rate this PG-13. There's very mild language and references to some violence and self-mutilation.
I recommend this book.
(Read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.)
Being a Shaman. Dealing with people's emotions and hearing the currents underneath the words and actions. This second book in the series follows Sarah's difficult decisions and the outcomes.
The writing and imagery is beautiful and I really enjoyed it. The story was heartrending in many ways, but very satisfying. It Ts into another Solar Clipper series by Nathan Lowell at about the second book, I think.
I read that series first, so I already had a clue which way this story would go. If you don't want to know the end ahead of time, you should read this series first.
I would rate this PG-13. There's very mild language and references to some violence and self-mutilation.
I recommend this book.
(Read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.)
July 20, 2023
I'll preface this review by saying that I think, at this point, I've read all by the latest release in the Solar Clipper universe. And follow that by saying this is one of the darkest books by this author that I've ever read.
It holds nothing back from page one.
And for that reason, I struggled with this one. I'm still unsure how I feel about it, but it's written with the same attention to detail, complex characters, and tight world-building that I love about the rest of them, so I can't fault it.
This book makes the next in the series possible—and I think that one is the best of the trilogy. But if you're looking for a leisurely escape, as I often turn to Nathan Lowell's books for, this one isn't it.
It holds nothing back from page one.
And for that reason, I struggled with this one. I'm still unsure how I feel about it, but it's written with the same attention to detail, complex characters, and tight world-building that I love about the rest of them, so I can't fault it.
This book makes the next in the series possible—and I think that one is the best of the trilogy. But if you're looking for a leisurely escape, as I often turn to Nathan Lowell's books for, this one isn't it.
March 8, 2020
Heavy stuff
I've read the other books in this setting, and I knew what end this book would lead to. Knowing the end was not a spoiler that ruined the story, rather the opposite.
It initially made me reluctant to read the story, and I dreaded getting to the end, but now I'm done, in glad I read it.
The story gets dark and heavy, but not unbearably so. In fact, I probably could have handled a bit more.
Still, it's the kind of story that will stick with me for a while. The kind of story that gives me something to think about.
There's one big question left unanswered, so I'm hoping for more books.
I've read the other books in this setting, and I knew what end this book would lead to. Knowing the end was not a spoiler that ruined the story, rather the opposite.
It initially made me reluctant to read the story, and I dreaded getting to the end, but now I'm done, in glad I read it.
The story gets dark and heavy, but not unbearably so. In fact, I probably could have handled a bit more.
Still, it's the kind of story that will stick with me for a while. The kind of story that gives me something to think about.
There's one big question left unanswered, so I'm hoping for more books.
June 12, 2020
This wasn't the story that I wanted it to be, but it was a great story. It was emotional, it was heart-felt, and it was thought-provoking. It was full of heart and soul and, in Nathan's trademark style, it hits you out of left field in a way that makes you appreciate the people in your life all the more.
The Shamans' Tales are significantly different from the rest of the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper tales, in that they basically have nothing to do with the Deep Dark. They are all planetside, but that doesn't mean that they are constrained. They just look at a different (and unique) part of the Solar Clipper universe.
The Shamans' Tales are significantly different from the rest of the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper tales, in that they basically have nothing to do with the Deep Dark. They are all planetside, but that doesn't mean that they are constrained. They just look at a different (and unique) part of the Solar Clipper universe.
July 9, 2020
The more i read books by Nathan Lowell the more I like them. I mostly enjoyed this book, but the ending is a challenge. Worth reading, but heart wrenching. Please write a next one so we can have a happy(er) ending. There are a lot of loose ends in this book.
NL seems to be ready to deal with the really nasty effects of domestic violence in some of his books. The effects on women are awful and he touches on that. I was hoping that the male character could be healed of being broken by the lead characters but not this time. It is such a tragedy that sons are often doomed to repeat the sins of the father, inflicting deep damage on the ones they could love, wives and children, as well as themselves. How do we break this cycle?
NL seems to be ready to deal with the really nasty effects of domestic violence in some of his books. The effects on women are awful and he touches on that. I was hoping that the male character could be healed of being broken by the lead characters but not this time. It is such a tragedy that sons are often doomed to repeat the sins of the father, inflicting deep damage on the ones they could love, wives and children, as well as themselves. How do we break this cycle?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2020
How Sara Krugg became
I have been a fan of Nathan Lowell's rock for a number of years and of the Solar Clipper setting. This book is the bitter sweet story of how Sarah grew up on the South Shore, the politics of being the daughter of the Shaman and the costs. And how eventually Sarah made the terrible choices that ended with her signing on as crew on a Solar Clipper.
I hope this is not the end of the Shaman!s taless as I want to find out how the Shamans vs the Company turns out.
I have been a fan of Nathan Lowell's rock for a number of years and of the Solar Clipper setting. This book is the bitter sweet story of how Sarah grew up on the South Shore, the politics of being the daughter of the Shaman and the costs. And how eventually Sarah made the terrible choices that ended with her signing on as crew on a Solar Clipper.
I hope this is not the end of the Shaman!s taless as I want to find out how the Shamans vs the Company turns out.
January 31, 2020
Worth waiting for
For a book that was a long time coming, it was well worth the wait. For those familiar with the character, you go in knowing that this will not be a happy story. And yet, in its way it was. This is a story about life and choices and how we learn to live with such. Nathan Lowell’s characters are all very much human and they make mistakes. They live with regrets. They make the wrong choices. And they live with those choices. How we go on defines us. Nathan Lowell’s shows us just how true this is.
For a book that was a long time coming, it was well worth the wait. For those familiar with the character, you go in knowing that this will not be a happy story. And yet, in its way it was. This is a story about life and choices and how we learn to live with such. Nathan Lowell’s characters are all very much human and they make mistakes. They live with regrets. They make the wrong choices. And they live with those choices. How we go on defines us. Nathan Lowell’s shows us just how true this is.
November 2, 2020
Lowell, Nathan. Cape Grace. Shaman’s Tales from the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper, No. 2. Kindle, 2020.
Cape Grace is a sequel to South Coast and a prequel to the Share series of Solar Clipper novels. It fills in the back story of Sarah, the South Coast shaman, who is unable to practice her craft because of corporate greed and bureaucracy, gender discrimination, and cruelty. It does fill in a hole in Lowell’s larger narrative, but it comes too late for most readers of Lowell’s work, I suspect. It really should have been worked into the Share series somehow.
Cape Grace is a sequel to South Coast and a prequel to the Share series of Solar Clipper novels. It fills in the back story of Sarah, the South Coast shaman, who is unable to practice her craft because of corporate greed and bureaucracy, gender discrimination, and cruelty. It does fill in a hole in Lowell’s larger narrative, but it comes too late for most readers of Lowell’s work, I suspect. It really should have been worked into the Share series somehow.
March 2, 2021
One thing I learned from various bits of Lowell's Solar Clipper series is that he's not afraid of the occasional unresolved or unfortunate ending.
In this case, most readers know from the start the basic gist of how Sarah's story plays out, and despite that, Lowell tackles the issues of bureaucracy, gender discrimination, and domestic violence with some capable character development, filling in the backstory nicely and truly tying the Solar Clipper and Shaman's Tale series together. I thoroughly enjoyed it, although hoping for a few more loss ends to get resolved in Finwell Bay.
In this case, most readers know from the start the basic gist of how Sarah's story plays out, and despite that, Lowell tackles the issues of bureaucracy, gender discrimination, and domestic violence with some capable character development, filling in the backstory nicely and truly tying the Solar Clipper and Shaman's Tale series together. I thoroughly enjoyed it, although hoping for a few more loss ends to get resolved in Finwell Bay.
August 1, 2022
Oof! I blame the anticipation of how things will unfold (knowing from other series how things will end) for making this back particularly hard to read at times. I celebrate how Lowell wanted to bring this story forward and make victims of abuse feel seen, but also, it is heart throbbing to see how someone is breaking apart.
Once I knew that the parts I dreaded were not particularly detailed, the book ultimately brought forward how Otto was broken and holding on too tight. I realized I enjoyed this book almost as much as I have loved the rest of the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper series.
Once I knew that the parts I dreaded were not particularly detailed, the book ultimately brought forward how Otto was broken and holding on too tight. I realized I enjoyed this book almost as much as I have loved the rest of the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2020
A wonderful sequel to South Coast!
Nathan has done it again...captured the imagination of the reader and placed them in the middle of life iin a coastal town and the story of a shaman and his daughter. Cleverly tying in to an earlier clipper ship adventure, "the sun of a shaman is a shaman" brings its meaning, and consequences, to life in this seafaring story that will invoke nostalgia of the solar age and warm the hearts of loyal readers everywhere.
Nathan has done it again...captured the imagination of the reader and placed them in the middle of life iin a coastal town and the story of a shaman and his daughter. Cleverly tying in to an earlier clipper ship adventure, "the sun of a shaman is a shaman" brings its meaning, and consequences, to life in this seafaring story that will invoke nostalgia of the solar age and warm the hearts of loyal readers everywhere.
April 1, 2020
Again Another Solid Read
Nathan Lowell never disappoints. This the story of Otto and Sarah Krugg and the event that lead to Sarah on the Lois McKendrick in Half Share. This story deals with domestic abuse. It does it without dwelling on the violence itself. It also deals with institutionalized sexism. There is no resolution of one of the situations. That is life. I loved the book.
Nathan Lowell never disappoints. This the story of Otto and Sarah Krugg and the event that lead to Sarah on the Lois McKendrick in Half Share. This story deals with domestic abuse. It does it without dwelling on the violence itself. It also deals with institutionalized sexism. There is no resolution of one of the situations. That is life. I loved the book.
December 7, 2020
Deeply touching
This tale of the coming of age of a powerful daughter of the shaman is deeply engaging and powerful. And the author's slow unraveling of the history of shamans on the planet is genuinely intriguing. Lowell is maturing as a writer, dealing with insight and feeling with issues of parenthood. There are plenty of loose ends to be dealt with, but there is also a clear story and character arc. On to the next one in the series!
This tale of the coming of age of a powerful daughter of the shaman is deeply engaging and powerful. And the author's slow unraveling of the history of shamans on the planet is genuinely intriguing. Lowell is maturing as a writer, dealing with insight and feeling with issues of parenthood. There are plenty of loose ends to be dealt with, but there is also a clear story and character arc. On to the next one in the series!
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