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Bubbles In Space #5
Cherry Bomb
Bubbles Marlowe is used to charging into problems head first, consequences be damned.
As a cyborg detective, her lone-wolf attitude worked just fine. But with her enemy dead and a group of rebel soldiers crying for her to lead them into battle, she has to change her strategy. And fast. Because Nathanial Price left them a gift before he died, and it’s a killer…
A secret technology from the distant past threatens to destroy everything she has fought to protect, and two warring factions vie for control of the mysterious device. Bubbles must explore the remains of an ancient city, discover hidden truths about her allies, and rally the opposing forces to work together.
If she can’t, there won’t be anything left to fight for…
Bubbles Marlowe IS BACK in the exciting finale to the cyber-noir technothriller series, Bubbles in Space. Delve into the secrets of this gritty future world, and buckle up for an adventure full of unusual characters, dark humour, and non-stop action.
As a cyborg detective, her lone-wolf attitude worked just fine. But with her enemy dead and a group of rebel soldiers crying for her to lead them into battle, she has to change her strategy. And fast. Because Nathanial Price left them a gift before he died, and it’s a killer…
A secret technology from the distant past threatens to destroy everything she has fought to protect, and two warring factions vie for control of the mysterious device. Bubbles must explore the remains of an ancient city, discover hidden truths about her allies, and rally the opposing forces to work together.
If she can’t, there won’t be anything left to fight for…
Bubbles Marlowe IS BACK in the exciting finale to the cyber-noir technothriller series, Bubbles in Space. Delve into the secrets of this gritty future world, and buckle up for an adventure full of unusual characters, dark humour, and non-stop action.
- GenresScience FictionCyberpunk
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
December 15, 2021
BUBBLES IN SPACE is a series that I have absolutely loved from beginning to end. Sadly, Cherry Bomb feels like the end of the adventures of Bubbles Marlowe, Private Detective. It might not be the end of her adventures altogether but I think that we will no longer have cyberpunk stories outside of the Tales of HoloCity series. Which is a shame but as long as that continues, I shall be content. I've always been a bigger fan of the gritty street stories versus the more science fiction elements.
Still, I have to say there's a lot to say for Cherry Bomb as we have a plot about ancient technology, family intrigue, conspiracies, and the possible end of the world. There's a lot of twists and turns throughout this book that I really appreciated. Poor Bubbles just wants to get back to her quote-unquote normal life but that may no longer exist. I also love Johanna as the antagonist as she's been a "love to hate" character from the very beginning.
If you've read the previous Bubbles novels, of course you're going to want to read the grand finale. It may be sweet sorrow to part but it does so on a way that feels like a high note.
Still, I have to say there's a lot to say for Cherry Bomb as we have a plot about ancient technology, family intrigue, conspiracies, and the possible end of the world. There's a lot of twists and turns throughout this book that I really appreciated. Poor Bubbles just wants to get back to her quote-unquote normal life but that may no longer exist. I also love Johanna as the antagonist as she's been a "love to hate" character from the very beginning.
If you've read the previous Bubbles novels, of course you're going to want to read the grand finale. It may be sweet sorrow to part but it does so on a way that feels like a high note.
June 15, 2022
I really put this one off, didn't I? And not because I wasn't interested in it. Far from it! I was just so in love with this series that honestly, I didn't want it to be over. I wanted to conserve it. But now that the book is finished, I don't feel the emptiness I expected myself to feel. And maybe that's because I still have 3 short stories to read about Bubbles prior to the events of the first book, Tropical Punch. Or maybe it's because the author hinted in her author's note at the end that she has more stories planned for Bubbles and her friends, AND other stories set in HoloCity with a new cast of characters. But I do feel kind of sad that the main series is over. I enjoyed every minute of it.
For whatever reason, it feels like these books always came to me when I needed them most. I pretty much bought them all in one go, so I could have read them whenever I wanted. But something always drew me towards them when I was going through something difficult in my life. And there's been a LOT of that in the last few months since I picked these up. Bubbles' sarcasm, wit, and charm was an easy way to help me zone out. To feel a character and their world different from my own. The ultimate escape, you know? I loved that about these books. It always managed to transport me away from my own problems, and give me a healthy dose of serotonin while it was at it. Cherry Bomb was no exception. The author knows how to balance a serious plot with some good humor, and there were several times where I laughed. Especially regarding Bubbles and her donuts.
As always, the world building is excellent, and so is the prose. This story is much more confined to one main area, but it's very different from everywhere else we've been to before. It wasn't my favorite location ever, but it made sense for the book and it worked really well. I felt like I was really there with Bubbles and her crew. There's nonstop action in this one, and I'm not even kidding. The characters barely experience any kind of relief. Just when you think they get a chance to breathe, or when things might slow down, you're hit with another shock, blast, or punch. It's insane, but it keeps the book moving at such a quick pace, and I loved every moment of it. The stakes are high, and it wouldn't make sense for there to be any downtime in the final book of this action-packed series. The entire book was basically the climax for the last four.
One thing I really loved though was the inclusion of Rae. Despite their differences, Rae and Bubbles have a very deep connection with one another. Their friendship shines even in their darkest moments. They go through hell together, but watching them support each other is incredible and very moving. A strong platonic bond is something a lot of books lack, but this one doesn't. I would have liked to see more of Cosmo though. He's been a showstopper from the start and granted, he's had PLENTY of page time. But his dynamic with Bubbles always got me laughing. He's amusing even when he doesn't mean to be, but he also knows how to be fierce and diplomatic too. I hope we get to see more of him in the future. As for Tom, I really don't know what Bubbles sees in him, but I respect the way the author handled their relationship. Turbulent at times, given the situation they're in, but not unhealthy. Not overbearing, either, where it felt like an unnecessary driving force in the novel. I also respect that the author didn't try to make Tom look like a model. Love interests don't have to be drop dead gorgeous to be convincing! So props for that.
And then there's her relationship with Marion. It ended so bittersweetly, and part of me wishes they'd had more time together. But I also think the author did both characters justice with their interactions, and handled it very appropriately. Johanna, I knew, had always been a bad egg. But I really didn't expect what we got with her here. Part of me felt like she was being very cynical and viscious for no reason. You know, the whole "evil just to be evil" sort of thing. But as the book continued, I started to understand her motivations, even if I couldn't agree with them. There was a lot to unpack with her character and I do feel like there were times where it waa hard to keep up. But it kept me interested from the start. I WANTED to learn more about her and how she fit in with the plot.
The ending threw me off a bit though. I think I was expecting a cozy little epilogue in HoloCity. I won't spoil the ending, especially because it sets us up for MORE stories following Bubbles, but I was kind of surprised. It took me a moment to wrap my head around it. And I think I'm still trying to figure it out? But I think I liked it, even though it's not what I was expecting. That's a good thing actually. I'd definitely like some more explanation on how that exactly happened, but I'm sure we'll get answers when we get more Bubbles books in the future, so that's fine with me. I also love how the author tied the epilogue in with the overarching name of the series. That's pretty cool.
Overall, I really enjoyed the ending of this series. It stuck the landing and checked off everything I needed: it made me laugh, had me on the edge of my seat, confused me, killed me (emotionally), and made me smile. We've come a long way since Tropical Punch, but it's a journey I'd take again. I heavily recommend this series to anyone who will listen. It's got excellent worldbuilding, interesting characters, and what I felt was a unique plot. It even got me into sci-fi books. So give it a chance, and then we can fangirl over it together.
For whatever reason, it feels like these books always came to me when I needed them most. I pretty much bought them all in one go, so I could have read them whenever I wanted. But something always drew me towards them when I was going through something difficult in my life. And there's been a LOT of that in the last few months since I picked these up. Bubbles' sarcasm, wit, and charm was an easy way to help me zone out. To feel a character and their world different from my own. The ultimate escape, you know? I loved that about these books. It always managed to transport me away from my own problems, and give me a healthy dose of serotonin while it was at it. Cherry Bomb was no exception. The author knows how to balance a serious plot with some good humor, and there were several times where I laughed. Especially regarding Bubbles and her donuts.
As always, the world building is excellent, and so is the prose. This story is much more confined to one main area, but it's very different from everywhere else we've been to before. It wasn't my favorite location ever, but it made sense for the book and it worked really well. I felt like I was really there with Bubbles and her crew. There's nonstop action in this one, and I'm not even kidding. The characters barely experience any kind of relief. Just when you think they get a chance to breathe, or when things might slow down, you're hit with another shock, blast, or punch. It's insane, but it keeps the book moving at such a quick pace, and I loved every moment of it. The stakes are high, and it wouldn't make sense for there to be any downtime in the final book of this action-packed series. The entire book was basically the climax for the last four.
One thing I really loved though was the inclusion of Rae. Despite their differences, Rae and Bubbles have a very deep connection with one another. Their friendship shines even in their darkest moments. They go through hell together, but watching them support each other is incredible and very moving. A strong platonic bond is something a lot of books lack, but this one doesn't. I would have liked to see more of Cosmo though. He's been a showstopper from the start and granted, he's had PLENTY of page time. But his dynamic with Bubbles always got me laughing. He's amusing even when he doesn't mean to be, but he also knows how to be fierce and diplomatic too. I hope we get to see more of him in the future. As for Tom, I really don't know what Bubbles sees in him, but I respect the way the author handled their relationship. Turbulent at times, given the situation they're in, but not unhealthy. Not overbearing, either, where it felt like an unnecessary driving force in the novel. I also respect that the author didn't try to make Tom look like a model. Love interests don't have to be drop dead gorgeous to be convincing! So props for that.
And then there's her relationship with Marion. It ended so bittersweetly, and part of me wishes they'd had more time together. But I also think the author did both characters justice with their interactions, and handled it very appropriately. Johanna, I knew, had always been a bad egg. But I really didn't expect what we got with her here. Part of me felt like she was being very cynical and viscious for no reason. You know, the whole "evil just to be evil" sort of thing. But as the book continued, I started to understand her motivations, even if I couldn't agree with them. There was a lot to unpack with her character and I do feel like there were times where it waa hard to keep up. But it kept me interested from the start. I WANTED to learn more about her and how she fit in with the plot.
The ending threw me off a bit though. I think I was expecting a cozy little epilogue in HoloCity. I won't spoil the ending, especially because it sets us up for MORE stories following Bubbles, but I was kind of surprised. It took me a moment to wrap my head around it. And I think I'm still trying to figure it out? But I think I liked it, even though it's not what I was expecting. That's a good thing actually. I'd definitely like some more explanation on how that exactly happened, but I'm sure we'll get answers when we get more Bubbles books in the future, so that's fine with me. I also love how the author tied the epilogue in with the overarching name of the series. That's pretty cool.
Overall, I really enjoyed the ending of this series. It stuck the landing and checked off everything I needed: it made me laugh, had me on the edge of my seat, confused me, killed me (emotionally), and made me smile. We've come a long way since Tropical Punch, but it's a journey I'd take again. I heavily recommend this series to anyone who will listen. It's got excellent worldbuilding, interesting characters, and what I felt was a unique plot. It even got me into sci-fi books. So give it a chance, and then we can fangirl over it together.
December 13, 2021
A Great End to a Fabulous Series!
I started the Bubbles adventure less than a year ago, and has it ever been a wild ride! Cyber Punk is not my go-to genre, but I have enjoyed these books greatly. Bubbles kinda grows on you, as do many of the supporting characters, namely Hammet and Gore.
In the previous book, Bubbles finally kills off the bad guy, Nathaniel Price. But in Bubbles’ world, allies often turn into enemies. Follow everyone’s favorite cyborg as she struggles to unite a people with completing objectives and values. The ending was a great surprise. Sarah Jensen is a fantastic writer and this book is definitely worth the cost!
I started the Bubbles adventure less than a year ago, and has it ever been a wild ride! Cyber Punk is not my go-to genre, but I have enjoyed these books greatly. Bubbles kinda grows on you, as do many of the supporting characters, namely Hammet and Gore.
In the previous book, Bubbles finally kills off the bad guy, Nathaniel Price. But in Bubbles’ world, allies often turn into enemies. Follow everyone’s favorite cyborg as she struggles to unite a people with completing objectives and values. The ending was a great surprise. Sarah Jensen is a fantastic writer and this book is definitely worth the cost!
December 15, 2021
Cherry Bomb is Book 5 in the Bubbles in Space series and it is the best book yet. I find that in a series like this the books just get better as characters develop and the dialogue becomes tighter. As usual, the story starts right after the previous book's hair-raising antics end. Bubbles has just killed evil arch-villain, Nathanial Price, but with his dying breath, he let her know there is a device programmed to destroy the world and he is the only one who knows about it. During the quest to find and destroy the ancient technology, Bubbles has to stickhandle around two warring factions that want to control the technology. She also has to finally assume a leadership role with her motley band of weirdos to direct the search. As in all Bubbles in Space books the action is fast paced and relentless as it counts down to the end. Bubbles and her crew are caught in an endless series of intrigues as they try to sort the good guys from the bad guys. The ending is a bit of a surprise and I can't wait to see where S.C. Jensen goes from here. I've come to enjoy the mean streets of HoloCity and the Grit. I like the characters and am curious to see where things go next. Read this book, actually, read the whole series. You will enjoy it.
December 15, 2021
I highly recommend this series and the final book does not disappoint.
The themes the author describes in her introduction are clearly set out for us. Jensen wants us to reflect upon how, “leaving her past behind and discovering a new path forward… about recovery growth and overcoming trauma”, are a part of the evolution of our beloved main character. Bubbles has experienced growth and development throughout this marvelous series. She has gone from being an endearing but lost soul in the first installment to a somewhat reluctant, yet competent guide, leading her trusty crew. Just like in the first four books, the action doesn’t slow down for long, but we readers are given moments of contemplation that bring Bubble’s expanding wisdom into focus for us.
In Bubbles own words, “Our ancestors were brilliant, ambitious, determined, and some of them were a little mad. But most of all, they were full of hope… Hope is why we’re here, after all.”
Perhaps this is as much a description of what we all would like to realize as we progress through our lives as it is the experience of Bubbles going through her madcap adventures and that is why the series has a deeper meaning that what first meets the eye.
The themes the author describes in her introduction are clearly set out for us. Jensen wants us to reflect upon how, “leaving her past behind and discovering a new path forward… about recovery growth and overcoming trauma”, are a part of the evolution of our beloved main character. Bubbles has experienced growth and development throughout this marvelous series. She has gone from being an endearing but lost soul in the first installment to a somewhat reluctant, yet competent guide, leading her trusty crew. Just like in the first four books, the action doesn’t slow down for long, but we readers are given moments of contemplation that bring Bubble’s expanding wisdom into focus for us.
In Bubbles own words, “Our ancestors were brilliant, ambitious, determined, and some of them were a little mad. But most of all, they were full of hope… Hope is why we’re here, after all.”
Perhaps this is as much a description of what we all would like to realize as we progress through our lives as it is the experience of Bubbles going through her madcap adventures and that is why the series has a deeper meaning that what first meets the eye.
December 16, 2021
Rogue scientist Nathanial Price is dead, but his threat that a secret high-tech device will destroy everything, turns the world upside down. Bubbles teams up with her trusted band of misfits and a crew of rebel soldiers to discover the truth behind the threat.
Cherry Bomb is the 5th and last book in this series. The character development of all main players is very well done. Bubbles has evolved from a gawky self-proclaimed PI into a fierce opponent, ready to take the lead when the shit hits the fan.
I must admit that I missed a few humorous interventions by prima donna Cosmo Régale and feisty SmartPet Hammett. But just like the rest of the series, this story is a joy to read with its extravagant characters and relentless action. A worthy series finale!
Cherry Bomb is the 5th and last book in this series. The character development of all main players is very well done. Bubbles has evolved from a gawky self-proclaimed PI into a fierce opponent, ready to take the lead when the shit hits the fan.
I must admit that I missed a few humorous interventions by prima donna Cosmo Régale and feisty SmartPet Hammett. But just like the rest of the series, this story is a joy to read with its extravagant characters and relentless action. A worthy series finale!
May 4, 2023
A solid 4 stars (80%) at least, maybe even should get 85-88 out of 100. The round-up to finish this series of 5 books was somewhat vague, not explaining the major reveal 4 or 5 paragraphs from the end. But according to author's "afterward", there is to be a Bubbles Marlowe series in a new setting---no spoilers here but if you read #5 Cherry Bomb, you know what I mean. So that might be why some threads are still un-tied...?
January 4, 2025
This series was fun and I am definitely interested to read more! Definitely some confusing plot elements at times and perhaps could have used a bit more refinement/editing but the writing really grew with the series and the characters were great.
March 12, 2022
And so it ends…
The conclusion ties it all together, answers most of our questions and quiets our fears. This was an emotional roller coaster and a most enjoyable storyline.
The conclusion ties it all together, answers most of our questions and quiets our fears. This was an emotional roller coaster and a most enjoyable storyline.
June 7, 2022
That rates.
If you enjoy hardboiled detective stories and sci-fi, you will probably enjoy this. Bubbles is no Blackjack Justice, but I liked her company. I think you will too.
If you enjoy hardboiled detective stories and sci-fi, you will probably enjoy this. Bubbles is no Blackjack Justice, but I liked her company. I think you will too.
November 1, 2022
Satisfying conclusion to the series.
March 26, 2023
Great series. Well written. Can not wait for more adventures of Bubbles and crew.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews