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Starship Teapot #2
Judgement Dave
This time, the universe puts the cat in catastrophe.
Plucked from her home on Earth and ending up aboard a strange spaceship in an even stranger universe, Lem and the misfit crew of the Teapot have more than enough trouble on their hands… and then they receive an urgent last-minute call to save a race of cat-people from certain destruction.
Stuck with a disaster-platypus of a project manager and an entire race of people seemingly determined to thwart their own rescue, the Teapot’s crew face the impossible job of herding cats and helping evacuate the planet before it’s blown to smithereens.
Can Lem and the gang avert disaster and save this race of infuriating cat-people?
Perfect for fans of wacky and imaginative sci-fi stories, this satirical space opera is a ridiculous adventure that will delight readers of John Scalzi’s take on Fuzzy Nation or TJ Berry’s Space Unicorn Blues.
Plucked from her home on Earth and ending up aboard a strange spaceship in an even stranger universe, Lem and the misfit crew of the Teapot have more than enough trouble on their hands… and then they receive an urgent last-minute call to save a race of cat-people from certain destruction.
Stuck with a disaster-platypus of a project manager and an entire race of people seemingly determined to thwart their own rescue, the Teapot’s crew face the impossible job of herding cats and helping evacuate the planet before it’s blown to smithereens.
Can Lem and the gang avert disaster and save this race of infuriating cat-people?
Perfect for fans of wacky and imaginative sci-fi stories, this satirical space opera is a ridiculous adventure that will delight readers of John Scalzi’s take on Fuzzy Nation or TJ Berry’s Space Unicorn Blues.
- GenresScience FictionLGBTCozy
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2022
7 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Si Clarke
16 books107 followersSI CLARKE is a misanthrope who lives in Deptford, sarf ees London. She shares her home with her partner and an assortment of waifs and strays. When not writing convoluted, inefficient stories, she spends her time telling financial services firms to behave more efficiently. When not doing either of those things, she can be found in the pub or shouting at people online – occasionally practising efficiency by doing both at once.
As someone who’s neurodivergent, an immigrant, and the proud owner of an invisible disability, she strives to present a diverse array of characters in her stories.
As someone who’s neurodivergent, an immigrant, and the proud owner of an invisible disability, she strives to present a diverse array of characters in her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 26, 2022
Judgment Dave is the sequel to The Left Hand of Dog, and if it’s possible, I think I loved it even more. In The Left Hand of Dog, Lem and her dog Spock got wrapped up in a bounty hunter sweep, along with a bunch of other aliens – the adorable and irrepressible Bexley, the gaseous but sweet cook Aurora, BB the giant yellow bird, and Henry the foul-mouthed robot pilot. Now they’re off on another adventure together aboard the Starship Teapot.
As in The Left Hand of Dog, the universal translator is what makes this multi-species romp possible. It has two modes, literal and figurative. Literal mode doesn’t work so well cross-species, but figurative mode allows the translator so substitute things the listener knows for the foreign words/concepts. So you get dilithium crystals and planets like Trantor and Dark Web, and it all makes perfect sense, freeing the author to find both the heart of her characters and the full silliness of the story and the situation.
Judgment Dave starts off with an urgent mission – an asteroid is hurtling toward a colony planet, and all ships within traveling distance are being asked to help evacuate the colony’s only city. Lem dubs the planet Dave, and off we go.
The inhabitants of Dave – dubbed the “plenties” - are a six-limbed cat-like species, and Clarke plays this metaphor to the hilt. Just like cats, they wander in and out of the transports meant to evacuate them, ignore orders, and generally treat their rescuers with disdain, like peons who are there to cater to their every whim.
But beyond these difficulties, the rescuers soon encounter another more disturbing one – the plenties’s “pets,” the kobolds, are actually sentient beings who have been enslaved by the catlike beings. Suddenly there are twice as many people to evacuate from Planet Dave in half the time, and a cultural/criminal mess to unsnarl.
Clarke has keen insight, and Judgment Dave holds up a mirror to our present moment, dealing with everything from race relations (“mouthbeaker supremacy”) to the crazy wash of conspiracy theories and cries of “fake news” we live with every day. It’s done at enough of a remove that it doesn’t feel too uncomfortable, and against this backdrop the characters carry us along on their madcap race against time as they literally herd cats, evacuate the kobolds, and try to navigate the thorny relationship between the plenties and their slaves.
I love how Clarke mixes so many sentient species and individual characters and gives each one their own unique flavor. Bexley is still my favorite, bubbly and full of life. I see a future for her and Lem, if the tea leaves are right. And I love love love Lem and her Earthling-filtered observations about the rest of the universe.
This book’s overarching plot makes it stronger than the first one. Where the first one was a mishmash of multi-planet adventures and character introductions, Judgment Dave one feels more intentional, a hilarious tale wrapped around a warm, uplifting core. Sure, there are a lot of laughs here, but this is also a circle of friends/found family story, and the trials and tribulations of the mission only brings them closer.
If you’re looking for an amusing thrill ride that recalls both the Hitchhiker’s Guide and Discworld, hop aboard the Starship Teapot. Just make sure you don’t miss the last flight off Planet Dave!
As in The Left Hand of Dog, the universal translator is what makes this multi-species romp possible. It has two modes, literal and figurative. Literal mode doesn’t work so well cross-species, but figurative mode allows the translator so substitute things the listener knows for the foreign words/concepts. So you get dilithium crystals and planets like Trantor and Dark Web, and it all makes perfect sense, freeing the author to find both the heart of her characters and the full silliness of the story and the situation.
Judgment Dave starts off with an urgent mission – an asteroid is hurtling toward a colony planet, and all ships within traveling distance are being asked to help evacuate the colony’s only city. Lem dubs the planet Dave, and off we go.
The inhabitants of Dave – dubbed the “plenties” - are a six-limbed cat-like species, and Clarke plays this metaphor to the hilt. Just like cats, they wander in and out of the transports meant to evacuate them, ignore orders, and generally treat their rescuers with disdain, like peons who are there to cater to their every whim.
But beyond these difficulties, the rescuers soon encounter another more disturbing one – the plenties’s “pets,” the kobolds, are actually sentient beings who have been enslaved by the catlike beings. Suddenly there are twice as many people to evacuate from Planet Dave in half the time, and a cultural/criminal mess to unsnarl.
Clarke has keen insight, and Judgment Dave holds up a mirror to our present moment, dealing with everything from race relations (“mouthbeaker supremacy”) to the crazy wash of conspiracy theories and cries of “fake news” we live with every day. It’s done at enough of a remove that it doesn’t feel too uncomfortable, and against this backdrop the characters carry us along on their madcap race against time as they literally herd cats, evacuate the kobolds, and try to navigate the thorny relationship between the plenties and their slaves.
I love how Clarke mixes so many sentient species and individual characters and gives each one their own unique flavor. Bexley is still my favorite, bubbly and full of life. I see a future for her and Lem, if the tea leaves are right. And I love love love Lem and her Earthling-filtered observations about the rest of the universe.
This book’s overarching plot makes it stronger than the first one. Where the first one was a mishmash of multi-planet adventures and character introductions, Judgment Dave one feels more intentional, a hilarious tale wrapped around a warm, uplifting core. Sure, there are a lot of laughs here, but this is also a circle of friends/found family story, and the trials and tribulations of the mission only brings them closer.
If you’re looking for an amusing thrill ride that recalls both the Hitchhiker’s Guide and Discworld, hop aboard the Starship Teapot. Just make sure you don’t miss the last flight off Planet Dave!
December 8, 2021
Joining the Teapot crew again is like snuggling in a fuzzy blanket. It's just so wholesome and lovely. The crew is asked to help get the people of planet Dave to evacuate due to an asteroid. Little do they know, they've agreed to literally herd cats. And the cats do not believe the asteroid is actually coming.
There is an oppressed, enslaved race, too, so just be prepared for that.
Lem and the crew are delightful and this is such a fun read! Even considering the enslaved people. SI has a gift for dealing with such things in her writing.
There is an oppressed, enslaved race, too, so just be prepared for that.
Lem and the crew are delightful and this is such a fun read! Even considering the enslaved people. SI has a gift for dealing with such things in her writing.
March 14, 2023
Thank you to @clacksee_author for the kind preread of the second book in the Starship Teapot series.
I loved the first book (The Left Hand of Dog), so was really excited to get into this next installment. I actually read it weeks ago, but I've been struggling to get time to sit down and do a few reviews!
Judgement Dave was full of bizarre, heart-warming, surprising, saddening moments, and the cast is just as diverse & loveable as before. It touches on a number of important topics, including racism, prejudice, unconscious bias, disability, non-verbal communication, appropriate language and much more, but does so using wit, weirdness and a wrapping of a tender queer found-family. Plus the dog talks!
Anyway, I don't like to discuss plot in reviews, so if you're looking for a short, fun, clever and interesting read, try The Left Hand of Dog first, then pick up Judgement Dave next month! Especially if, like me, your job is to manage projects…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the first book (The Left Hand of Dog), so was really excited to get into this next installment. I actually read it weeks ago, but I've been struggling to get time to sit down and do a few reviews!
Judgement Dave was full of bizarre, heart-warming, surprising, saddening moments, and the cast is just as diverse & loveable as before. It touches on a number of important topics, including racism, prejudice, unconscious bias, disability, non-verbal communication, appropriate language and much more, but does so using wit, weirdness and a wrapping of a tender queer found-family. Plus the dog talks!
Anyway, I don't like to discuss plot in reviews, so if you're looking for a short, fun, clever and interesting read, try The Left Hand of Dog first, then pick up Judgement Dave next month! Especially if, like me, your job is to manage projects…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 18, 2022
Full review on my blog 01/04/2022: https://inkandplasma.com/2022/04/01/j...
Character - 9
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 8
Plot - 8
Intrigue - 8
Logic - 8
Enjoyment - 9
Rating: 8.29 / 4 stars
--
I read and reviewed THE LEFT HAND OF DOG when it came out, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So when I was offered a chance to review JUDGEMENT DAVE, I jumped at it. These are strange little favourites of mine, perfect to curl up with and lose myself in for a few hours of sci-fi escapism.
Thanks to S.I. Clarke for the eARC of this book. It has not affected my honest review.
I actually think I enjoyed JUDGEMENT DAVE even more than I liked THE LEFT HAND OF DOG. We have established characters now and lots of delightfully queer found family, and they warmed my gay little heart. On top of that, while JUDGEMENT DAVE managed to uphold the comedy and pop culture references of the first book, we also got to see a much deeper and complicated conflict in this one. I ended up reading the whole thing in two sittings, getting through half of the book on each of my lunch breaks because I couldn’t put it down.
It’s not easy to balance humour in a book with heavy topics like slavery and genocide, and I felt like SI Clarke did an impressive job with this one. Particularly I loved Lem’s feelings of helplessness in the face of a huge problem that seemed too big for them to handle. It resonated with me very heavily as someone who often looks at the state of the world and struggles with knowing how to even start helping. Even if it did ache to read about people just denying and ignoring a crisis (a bit too real, ouch). I also really liked that we got to see Lem realising and acknowledging their biases. There’s very little I love more than a character with human flaws learning to do better.
We got to see more creatures from across the galaxy in this book, as well as exploring more of the relationships between Teapot crew members, and I love the sheer breadth of characters and how different they all are – though I can’t help but find it hilarious that the cat-like creatures are the ones who are disorganised, elitist and oppressive. I love cats, but that? That’s pretty accurate.
I maintain that SI’s books are perfect for anyone who loves Becky Chambers or SJ Whitby and wants to read something fun, a little wacky and ultimately emotional and moving. I can’t wait to read more about my favourite rag tag crew of warm-hearted space travellers.
Character - 9
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 8
Plot - 8
Intrigue - 8
Logic - 8
Enjoyment - 9
Rating: 8.29 / 4 stars
--
I read and reviewed THE LEFT HAND OF DOG when it came out, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So when I was offered a chance to review JUDGEMENT DAVE, I jumped at it. These are strange little favourites of mine, perfect to curl up with and lose myself in for a few hours of sci-fi escapism.
Thanks to S.I. Clarke for the eARC of this book. It has not affected my honest review.
I actually think I enjoyed JUDGEMENT DAVE even more than I liked THE LEFT HAND OF DOG. We have established characters now and lots of delightfully queer found family, and they warmed my gay little heart. On top of that, while JUDGEMENT DAVE managed to uphold the comedy and pop culture references of the first book, we also got to see a much deeper and complicated conflict in this one. I ended up reading the whole thing in two sittings, getting through half of the book on each of my lunch breaks because I couldn’t put it down.
It’s not easy to balance humour in a book with heavy topics like slavery and genocide, and I felt like SI Clarke did an impressive job with this one. Particularly I loved Lem’s feelings of helplessness in the face of a huge problem that seemed too big for them to handle. It resonated with me very heavily as someone who often looks at the state of the world and struggles with knowing how to even start helping. Even if it did ache to read about people just denying and ignoring a crisis (a bit too real, ouch). I also really liked that we got to see Lem realising and acknowledging their biases. There’s very little I love more than a character with human flaws learning to do better.
We got to see more creatures from across the galaxy in this book, as well as exploring more of the relationships between Teapot crew members, and I love the sheer breadth of characters and how different they all are – though I can’t help but find it hilarious that the cat-like creatures are the ones who are disorganised, elitist and oppressive. I love cats, but that? That’s pretty accurate.
I maintain that SI’s books are perfect for anyone who loves Becky Chambers or SJ Whitby and wants to read something fun, a little wacky and ultimately emotional and moving. I can’t wait to read more about my favourite rag tag crew of warm-hearted space travellers.
November 30, 2021
The weird and whacky crew of the starship Teapot are caught up in another adventure. This time they are asked to evacuate the population of a planet that is about to be hit by an asteroid. The problem is that the population doesn’t seem to understand the urgency. They are arrogant, demanding and racist. It is with horror that LEM and company discover that they are holding another race in slavery and aren’t particularly worried about them escaping the destruction of the world.
SI Clarke uses the weirdness to convey a number of messages in a subtle way. Her message will resonate with most readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
SI Clarke uses the weirdness to convey a number of messages in a subtle way. Her message will resonate with most readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 15, 2025
i think i enjoyed this one even more than the first! the stakes felt kinda intense but also obviously things were going to work out. i also liked how lem’s project manager skills became important, i love a non traditional hero. lots more henry, which is a vibe, and i rlly liked the new characters! this world is just overall so unique and fun!
February 23, 2023
I liked this book even more than the first in the series. The cat people are jerks, but in a completely believable ‘cat way’. Loved meeting the kobolds too. Hope we get a glimpse of these races in future stories.
October 3, 2025
While I continue to enjoy the series and will continue to listen to the audiobooks, this one felt a little repetitive and the message felt heavy handed. There is a lot this author is expressing, which I completely respect, but in this installment it lacked subtlety.
March 2, 2022
It's hard to tackle serious subjects while keeping things cosy and entertaining, but lightning apparently does strike twice - Judgement Dave manages it to perhaps an even greater extent than its predecessor The Left Hand of Dog. I think this is a great sequel - it makes the most of having us already familiar with the characters and uses that space to explore big themes that feel coherent with the world.
December 23, 2021
Let me begin by saying that I'm almost 75 years old. So, as you might imagine, I lived a good part of my life where genders were very well defined, no muss, no fuss, and no knowledge of the vast diversity of the human condition. So, as I began reading this novel, I struggled.
But back in the day, I read tons of science fiction which most times had a large array of beings, environments, and plots. So, after initially not liking the novel very much I plodded onward. I was well rewarded as I read on.
Once I wrapped my aged brain around the characters, I began to really love the novel. The characters and their personalities were great.
I once managed IT projects and had a great deal of sympathy for Lem and the difficulties in dealing with stubborn and/or ignorant people. The ruling class in the city of Catford were a combination of pompous idiots and, well, cats.
Often, when there is something funny in a book, I will, at most, chuckle. In this case, I guffawed several times. It is funny!
While this book is not a "bang-bang" action novel, there is considerable action and a constant sense of "what's next."
I've just downloaded the first novel in this series called Left Hand Dog. So, I did read this novel out of sequence, but with the helpful "what came before" section, this read well as a stand-alone work.
Si Clarke is funny, talented, and a joy to read. I look forward to reading more from her.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But back in the day, I read tons of science fiction which most times had a large array of beings, environments, and plots. So, after initially not liking the novel very much I plodded onward. I was well rewarded as I read on.
Once I wrapped my aged brain around the characters, I began to really love the novel. The characters and their personalities were great.
I once managed IT projects and had a great deal of sympathy for Lem and the difficulties in dealing with stubborn and/or ignorant people. The ruling class in the city of Catford were a combination of pompous idiots and, well, cats.
Often, when there is something funny in a book, I will, at most, chuckle. In this case, I guffawed several times. It is funny!
While this book is not a "bang-bang" action novel, there is considerable action and a constant sense of "what's next."
I've just downloaded the first novel in this series called Left Hand Dog. So, I did read this novel out of sequence, but with the helpful "what came before" section, this read well as a stand-alone work.
Si Clarke is funny, talented, and a joy to read. I look forward to reading more from her.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 1, 2022
Having read and really enjoyed Left hand of Dog I had been eagerly looking out for Si Clarke’s sequel. I was not disappointed.
This is an amazingly funny, creative, heart warming novel which has been so enjoyable to read. The Teapot’s crew, whilst far from ‘perfect’ or ‘normal’, are a diverse and supportive team who are incredibly likeable. Reading about their adventures is like hanging out with long lost friends.
There are parallels within the story to the climate crisis we are experiencing on earth as in the recent satirical film ‘Don’t look up’. Also serious issues such as slavery, inequality, and disability are covered. Yet somehow the author has an amazing ability to create something humorous and positive from potentially dark and difficult subjects.
The story moves quickly and keeps you hooked-I can’t wait to join the crew on further galactic travels!
Thank you to Si Clarke and Booksirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is an amazingly funny, creative, heart warming novel which has been so enjoyable to read. The Teapot’s crew, whilst far from ‘perfect’ or ‘normal’, are a diverse and supportive team who are incredibly likeable. Reading about their adventures is like hanging out with long lost friends.
There are parallels within the story to the climate crisis we are experiencing on earth as in the recent satirical film ‘Don’t look up’. Also serious issues such as slavery, inequality, and disability are covered. Yet somehow the author has an amazing ability to create something humorous and positive from potentially dark and difficult subjects.
The story moves quickly and keeps you hooked-I can’t wait to join the crew on further galactic travels!
Thank you to Si Clarke and Booksirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2022
I got a review copy of Consider Pegasus and didn't realize that I'd missed this one, #2. So... slight detour to correct that and get caught up.
I'd had this to say about The Left Hand of Dog last year:
A kidnapped earthling, a talkative horse(ish), snarky organic robot who can't swear (programming), a free-floating, full-torso, vaporous apparition (okay, a little referential liberty on my part), a feathered expert in a non-spoiled arena, and a dog named Spock on a space time adventure...what's not to like? Plus there's a much needed particular positivity that I also won't spoil.
Well, no longer kidnapped, Lem is there by choice. And no, no change on my "I rarely summarize fiction plots" position, but ... the much needed positivity gets a shot of steroids to overcome a sadly too prevalent in our time prejudice. Some people wrongly think they are superior to others, and in acting so, show that they aren't. And like the human counterparts who think that way, these are not nice ... "people". (The quotes are not a pronouncement on other beings... I use them for earthlings who are similarly backward.) The story is still fun, and there are still the many not too subtle ref drops, um, homages. But, it gets more serious than the first, and you'll be properly outraged with one thread. And if you aren't, I kind of hope you find yourself left behind on a Dave.
I'd had this to say about The Left Hand of Dog last year:
A kidnapped earthling, a talkative horse(ish), snarky organic robot who can't swear (programming), a free-floating, full-torso, vaporous apparition (okay, a little referential liberty on my part), a feathered expert in a non-spoiled arena, and a dog named Spock on a space time adventure...what's not to like? Plus there's a much needed particular positivity that I also won't spoil.
Well, no longer kidnapped, Lem is there by choice. And no, no change on my "I rarely summarize fiction plots" position, but ... the much needed positivity gets a shot of steroids to overcome a sadly too prevalent in our time prejudice. Some people wrongly think they are superior to others, and in acting so, show that they aren't. And like the human counterparts who think that way, these are not nice ... "people". (The quotes are not a pronouncement on other beings... I use them for earthlings who are similarly backward.) The story is still fun, and there are still the many not too subtle ref drops, um, homages. But, it gets more serious than the first, and you'll be properly outraged with one thread. And if you aren't, I kind of hope you find yourself left behind on a Dave.
March 17, 2022
This one was even better than the first!
Also the satire of this one combined with the setting of impending apocalypse and people not caring, was just so painfully accurate some of the time it was honestly hard to read (in a good way!) The overall fun and absurd parts of the book just added a bit of levity, without taking away the serious undertones of the story, which i found to be very well handled. Obviously i am no expert in these areas and therefore my opinion doesn't count for much, but it did make me think about accessibility and the judgement of people by other people a lot.
All in all, a great novella! Definitely looking forward to read more by the author!
Also the satire of this one combined with the setting of impending apocalypse and people not caring, was just so painfully accurate some of the time it was honestly hard to read (in a good way!) The overall fun and absurd parts of the book just added a bit of levity, without taking away the serious undertones of the story, which i found to be very well handled. Obviously i am no expert in these areas and therefore my opinion doesn't count for much, but it did make me think about accessibility and the judgement of people by other people a lot.
All in all, a great novella! Definitely looking forward to read more by the author!
November 13, 2024
ahhh i loved this so much - was hooked the whole time and did not want to put it down!! all the same themes as the others - found family alien gang, totally absurd, acceptance etc etc - but this one introduced new alien species (cats and little dinosaurs slay) and looked a lot at unfortunately relevant/familiar themes of hopeless politicians, climate deniers, and refugees (and what do we owe people who are refugees but also climate deniers and slaveowners and just not that great?? loved the themes of restorative justice here!!! holding hope people can change but also holding them to account for their awful actions etc) also some good disability/accessibility rep!
4.5 not 5 for two reasons - main downside was the ending - feel it wrapped up very suddenly :/ also the museum stuff i feel wasn’t fully resolved/wrapped up??
anyway, absolutely loving this series and can’t wait to get more insight into bexley and her world in the next one!!
4.5 not 5 for two reasons - main downside was the ending - feel it wrapped up very suddenly :/ also the museum stuff i feel wasn’t fully resolved/wrapped up??
anyway, absolutely loving this series and can’t wait to get more insight into bexley and her world in the next one!!
November 9, 2024
Who would have thought someone could write a whole book based on the phrase "Herding cats"??? But it works!
One again a thoughtful and endearing adventure for Lem and the crew of the teapot. Lem is struggling with feeling useful even while feeling accepted into the crew, until a opportunity to apply Project Management skills from earth presents an opportunity to shine!
A tongue in cheek sideways reference to real events in our own world, show through SI's unique humorous POV demonstrates the important of listening to experts, adhering to timelines, and never go anywhere without a leaving a note when you'll be back. I laughed, I face palmed, I nodded in sympathy. Anyone who has ever worked on a group project will feel Lem's pain here.
A wonderful addition to the series and somehow just as enjoyable and yet more impactful as the original. While the first book had overtures to the concept of gender and otherness, this one puts its not so subtle critique front and center, while somehow keeping it light.
A worthy read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One again a thoughtful and endearing adventure for Lem and the crew of the teapot. Lem is struggling with feeling useful even while feeling accepted into the crew, until a opportunity to apply Project Management skills from earth presents an opportunity to shine!
A tongue in cheek sideways reference to real events in our own world, show through SI's unique humorous POV demonstrates the important of listening to experts, adhering to timelines, and never go anywhere without a leaving a note when you'll be back. I laughed, I face palmed, I nodded in sympathy. Anyone who has ever worked on a group project will feel Lem's pain here.
A wonderful addition to the series and somehow just as enjoyable and yet more impactful as the original. While the first book had overtures to the concept of gender and otherness, this one puts its not so subtle critique front and center, while somehow keeping it light.
A worthy read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 26, 2022
An amazing space opera comedy story! As always with Si Clark, a brilliant idea for the plot, sensitively written with an over air of humor & good fun! Another adventure on the teapot! Oh what fun! I do recommend!
February 18, 2022
so good & quite inclusive
This book strikes an amazing balance between the heavy (slavery) and the light (exhaustion and dealing with arseholes). I have no idea how I found this author and books, beyond random link on twitter, but I am quite grateful I have.
This book strikes an amazing balance between the heavy (slavery) and the light (exhaustion and dealing with arseholes). I have no idea how I found this author and books, beyond random link on twitter, but I am quite grateful I have.
July 19, 2024
Si Clarke's 'Starship Teatop' series has proven to be absolutely fantastic.
I super ridiculous and absolutely addictive.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I super ridiculous and absolutely addictive.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 23, 2024
This is the second book in the Teapot series and even though it's not as silly as the first one I liked it just as much. This time Lem and her crew are trying to help evacuate a doomed planet and have to deal with science deniers, bureaucracy, a marginalized population and straight up meanness and stupidity. I am loving this series.
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February 23, 2022this was totally quirky and fun - hope the series continues! I mean a flying teapot in space...
April 1, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book 2 in the Starship Teapot series - the sequel to Left Hand of Dog - catches up with Teapot crew a few months after we left them at the end of the 1st book so they've had a chance to settle into each other's company and get comfortable. Henry is still as bristle-y as ever but Lem had grown to understand more of Aurora's expressiveness/nuance. BB and Bexley are as solid and well-rounded as they ever were. And Spock - ah who's a gorgeous girl then? I love seeing what Spock thinks of the other crew members and various other "friends" that she meets: tickly friend, spiky friends, tasty friends etc.
The plot absolutely clatters along and the book really flies by. I really appreciated how the themes are dealt with, ranging from the darker end of slavery, child abuse and supremacy to the other end - not lighter but so commonplace as often to not be considered at all - by which I mean disability or a generalised lack of accommodation for the different needs of others.
I'm delighted to know that Teapot adventures are not over - Book 3 will land later this year. (Makes mental note to keep a Book Sirens slot free!)
Book 2 in the Starship Teapot series - the sequel to Left Hand of Dog - catches up with Teapot crew a few months after we left them at the end of the 1st book so they've had a chance to settle into each other's company and get comfortable. Henry is still as bristle-y as ever but Lem had grown to understand more of Aurora's expressiveness/nuance. BB and Bexley are as solid and well-rounded as they ever were. And Spock - ah who's a gorgeous girl then? I love seeing what Spock thinks of the other crew members and various other "friends" that she meets: tickly friend, spiky friends, tasty friends etc.
The plot absolutely clatters along and the book really flies by. I really appreciated how the themes are dealt with, ranging from the darker end of slavery, child abuse and supremacy to the other end - not lighter but so commonplace as often to not be considered at all - by which I mean disability or a generalised lack of accommodation for the different needs of others.
I'm delighted to know that Teapot adventures are not over - Book 3 will land later this year. (Makes mental note to keep a Book Sirens slot free!)
January 5, 2022
Judgement Dave book 2 in a new series by S I Clarke. I found book 2 to be just as much fun as book 1. These 6 friends have bought the starship Teapot and are now zipping across the Galaxy. I really love the quirky characters and there ability to understand each other. They get in some crazy situations and the book is hilarious at times. To me, this series is pure joy and I can't wait for another story. Grab your ice tea or other drink and enjoy an afternoon of reading. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
March 26, 2022
Judgement Dave - A tale of rescue and confusion
The Teapot crew are back and we are taken with them on a light hearted journey to rescue the cat-centaurs of planet Dave. I was at one point getting irritated with how difficult the people who were being rescued were, until I thought about our cats and how the behave in any situation except the one they want to be in! The Kobolds are very sweet, hopefully we will see more of them in future instalments. A very entertaining book - by the way I pictured Holly coming back as a man.
The Teapot crew are back and we are taken with them on a light hearted journey to rescue the cat-centaurs of planet Dave. I was at one point getting irritated with how difficult the people who were being rescued were, until I thought about our cats and how the behave in any situation except the one they want to be in! The Kobolds are very sweet, hopefully we will see more of them in future instalments. A very entertaining book - by the way I pictured Holly coming back as a man.
January 27, 2022
Absolutely franking brilliant!
This book is filled with puns, pop references and all things geeky and funny. I was swept up in the story, and the frustration, instantly.
I sympathized with Lem, a lone human lost in Wonderland-in-space, and laughed at… well … nearly everything.
If you like space comedy, cats, dogs, Alice in Wonderland or non-binary everything, you will love this book.
I received an advance copy of this book for free and this is my honest, and willing review.
This book is filled with puns, pop references and all things geeky and funny. I was swept up in the story, and the frustration, instantly.
I sympathized with Lem, a lone human lost in Wonderland-in-space, and laughed at… well … nearly everything.
If you like space comedy, cats, dogs, Alice in Wonderland or non-binary everything, you will love this book.
I received an advance copy of this book for free and this is my honest, and willing review.
January 27, 2022
As usual, Si Clarke makes us laugh at the absurdity of life even in other universes. Our intrepid Lem is once again in the Teapot with the odd assortment of alien beings when they receive a distress signal. A planet will soon be destroyed and it's occupants need saving. It's a good thing the beings are small and few compared to Earth. Doing a good deed has its problems and soon everyone is sorry they answered the call.
Cat people are cats, spoiled, perverse, obstinate, and the term ' herding cats ' becomes a near lesson in futilty.
Snappy goofiness, similar to Adams' galactic hitchhiker stories, with reference to many beloved sci-fi, we have an original tale that is fun.
I am a new fan of Si Clarke for light-hearted yet human stories.
I received an advance review copy for free. My review is voluntary.
Cat people are cats, spoiled, perverse, obstinate, and the term ' herding cats ' becomes a near lesson in futilty.
Snappy goofiness, similar to Adams' galactic hitchhiker stories, with reference to many beloved sci-fi, we have an original tale that is fun.
I am a new fan of Si Clarke for light-hearted yet human stories.
I received an advance review copy for free. My review is voluntary.
July 13, 2025
When I say that I love a sequel, I love a sequel, and well, this one? It was an absolutely wonderful read. Judgement Dave had all the suspense, charm, humour, and warm fuzzies as The Left Hand of Dog (TLHoD) and more. The ragtag team from the first novel are back, and things have somehow become crazier in the time between when TLHoD finished and Judgement Dave starts. My gosh I loved it too, I went from reading a chapter or two each night, to reading about 60% of the novel in one night – but I really didn’t want it to end!
I am honestly not one-hundred percent sure where to start with this review, as I have so much about this novel that I loved, but I do have to start somewhere, right? This is something small, but there is something Si Clarke did with her sequel that I really loved and think it is something more series – especially sci-fi and fantasy series – should do. Clarke added a ‘Previously On…’ at the beginning of the novel with a recap of what happened in TLHoD. I haven’t seen this done before and it was a really nice touch.
I am still in awe of Clarke’s imaginative flair, and possibly even more so after reading Judgement Dave. The creativity that goes into the characters and the world they live in is almost magical, but the worlds themselves feel so real. The characters are all unique and through their differences they make for a vibrant read. The diversity within this novel doesn’t feel in any way forced to me. The way Clarke addresses more serious topics of race, sexuality, and internal biases (known and unknown) through this more light-hearted lens of the fictional world she has created is very cleverly done.
As a whole, Judgement Dave presented me with the characters I already loved so much alongside new characters where it only took me a few chapters to want to scream at them to listen. Every few pages I just needed to take a breath to calm my frustrations with certain characters, but in saying that, the warmth and heart of the misfit team was a perfect relief. I loved reading more of their dynamic and how they work together using their strengths to continue with the mission even when all feels hopeless.
The plot of Judgement Daves picks up pretty quickly, and once I was immersed in the story I wasn’t getting out any time soon. I love the urgency and panic of reading a time reliant conclusion. I felt like I was rushing around with the team as they tried to complete their mission before the deadline. So the closer to the deadline the team got the more nervous I became.
Judgement Dave is both a heart wrenching and heart warming tale that celebrates the uniqueness of a person and how they can use that for good. It is a tale of friendship, teamwork, and beating the odds in the face of a seemingly impossible task. I laughed, I cried, and I tried not to let the nervousness get to me. I highly recommend this to sci-fi lovers who are looking for something which explores very real and sometimes dark themes with a balance of light-hearted moments. Read this if you are looking for a novel with wonderfully divers characters, and if you are after a novel which is in itself, is a warm hug when you need it, even if some moments in the novel called for the hug in the first place.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for sending me this free eARC (eAdvanced Reader Copy). I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am honestly not one-hundred percent sure where to start with this review, as I have so much about this novel that I loved, but I do have to start somewhere, right? This is something small, but there is something Si Clarke did with her sequel that I really loved and think it is something more series – especially sci-fi and fantasy series – should do. Clarke added a ‘Previously On…’ at the beginning of the novel with a recap of what happened in TLHoD. I haven’t seen this done before and it was a really nice touch.
I am still in awe of Clarke’s imaginative flair, and possibly even more so after reading Judgement Dave. The creativity that goes into the characters and the world they live in is almost magical, but the worlds themselves feel so real. The characters are all unique and through their differences they make for a vibrant read. The diversity within this novel doesn’t feel in any way forced to me. The way Clarke addresses more serious topics of race, sexuality, and internal biases (known and unknown) through this more light-hearted lens of the fictional world she has created is very cleverly done.
As a whole, Judgement Dave presented me with the characters I already loved so much alongside new characters where it only took me a few chapters to want to scream at them to listen. Every few pages I just needed to take a breath to calm my frustrations with certain characters, but in saying that, the warmth and heart of the misfit team was a perfect relief. I loved reading more of their dynamic and how they work together using their strengths to continue with the mission even when all feels hopeless.
The plot of Judgement Daves picks up pretty quickly, and once I was immersed in the story I wasn’t getting out any time soon. I love the urgency and panic of reading a time reliant conclusion. I felt like I was rushing around with the team as they tried to complete their mission before the deadline. So the closer to the deadline the team got the more nervous I became.
Judgement Dave is both a heart wrenching and heart warming tale that celebrates the uniqueness of a person and how they can use that for good. It is a tale of friendship, teamwork, and beating the odds in the face of a seemingly impossible task. I laughed, I cried, and I tried not to let the nervousness get to me. I highly recommend this to sci-fi lovers who are looking for something which explores very real and sometimes dark themes with a balance of light-hearted moments. Read this if you are looking for a novel with wonderfully divers characters, and if you are after a novel which is in itself, is a warm hug when you need it, even if some moments in the novel called for the hug in the first place.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for sending me this free eARC (eAdvanced Reader Copy). I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2022
A great fun read; I practically inhaled this over the last couple of evenings.
The characters are engaging, and the action follows on from the previous Left Hand of Dog. With it's "Earth person now hanging out with aliens" perhaps comparisons with Douglas Adams are inevitable; think of this as in a similar vein, but while Adams often brought up economic issues (the B Ark, people being dead for tax reasons), Si Clarke touches instead on issues of identity and belonging - but like Adams, in a humorous way that doesn't make it feel shoe-horned in.
There's plenty of humour and compassion, despite there being a pretty grave situation (no spoilers) uncovered in the book. If you liked the last one, you'll like this. If you haven't read either, start with Left Hand of Dog.
The characters are engaging, and the action follows on from the previous Left Hand of Dog. With it's "Earth person now hanging out with aliens" perhaps comparisons with Douglas Adams are inevitable; think of this as in a similar vein, but while Adams often brought up economic issues (the B Ark, people being dead for tax reasons), Si Clarke touches instead on issues of identity and belonging - but like Adams, in a humorous way that doesn't make it feel shoe-horned in.
There's plenty of humour and compassion, despite there being a pretty grave situation (no spoilers) uncovered in the book. If you liked the last one, you'll like this. If you haven't read either, start with Left Hand of Dog.
December 29, 2022
Starship Teapot #2 ( books do not need to be read in order to be understood or enjoyed)
In book 2 the Starship Teapot crew takes on a mission to save the residents of planet Dave who are all going to be killed when an astroid smashes their planet to pieces. I hate one of the alien groups in this book aka the cat alien people. When you meet them you will understand. Trust me(and if you don’t think very unkind thoughts about them and call them at least 3 curse words you are a much better person then I am). Of the 3 Starship Teapot books I felt like this one taught me the most about importance of compassion and helping others. The storyline is so relevant to some of our issues today I feel like everyone will take away something from it.
Rincy was my favorite new character. She was a lovable disaster who was overseeing the mission. I swear I was always laughing when she was in the scene. She was so funny and sweet and just wants to do a good job.The crew was really pushed to the limit in this book and really felt for them trying to do everything at once. I love Lem and Bexley’s friendship. They just get each other. No romance in this series so far and I am loving it. Friendships are just as important as Romantic Partnerships. Seriously go read this amazing series. You will not regret it.
In book 2 the Starship Teapot crew takes on a mission to save the residents of planet Dave who are all going to be killed when an astroid smashes their planet to pieces. I hate one of the alien groups in this book aka the cat alien people. When you meet them you will understand. Trust me(and if you don’t think very unkind thoughts about them and call them at least 3 curse words you are a much better person then I am). Of the 3 Starship Teapot books I felt like this one taught me the most about importance of compassion and helping others. The storyline is so relevant to some of our issues today I feel like everyone will take away something from it.
Rincy was my favorite new character. She was a lovable disaster who was overseeing the mission. I swear I was always laughing when she was in the scene. She was so funny and sweet and just wants to do a good job.The crew was really pushed to the limit in this book and really felt for them trying to do everything at once. I love Lem and Bexley’s friendship. They just get each other. No romance in this series so far and I am loving it. Friendships are just as important as Romantic Partnerships. Seriously go read this amazing series. You will not regret it.
September 22, 2025
I feel like the author has hit their stride with the second book in the series. The characters are more relatable, although in my mind's eye they still often get pictured in 2 arms, 2 legs "human" imagery... Homo sapiens vs sapient??? Perhaps that is the author's intent all along???? This book seemed less reliant on portraying absurdities than the first book did, less dependent on the "Wacky Space Adventure" theme and more grounded in the metaphor of the moral and ethical issues being addressed. It was a fun read, and I think it would be a great classroom read, exploring the author's intentions and representations of a society.
September 15, 2022
I came across this author after they magnanimously liked a tweet of mine. I discovered the first Teapot adventure and found the story a delight to read so immediately bought this follow on story.
Whilst the tone could be considered much darker than the first with much more satire than out right silliness; it is all handled so deftly making it a hugely satisfying and enjoyable read.
Do yourself a favour take a ride with the crew of The Teapot, you'll be better for it.
Whilst the tone could be considered much darker than the first with much more satire than out right silliness; it is all handled so deftly making it a hugely satisfying and enjoyable read.
Do yourself a favour take a ride with the crew of The Teapot, you'll be better for it.
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