Indentured to the starship captain, young Michael ‘Kip’ Anders was his family’s only hope of fleeing Earth and its constant attacks from the Korg. But even four years out, the colony ship Cloud Fist is unable to escape the Korg’s firm grip on the galaxy. As factions form and unrest invades the ship, Kip finds his loyalties severely tested. Will the new colony fail before it even finds a planet to settle?
Space opera, but with a twist. In this story, we see a space ship filled with cryogenically stored workers and a minimal crew investigating a new planet to colonize. They are met with hostile locals, but there is a twist. Corruption within the system becomes obvious. Surprising choices are made for leadership and a strong sense of ethics guides our heroes as they seek to create a new world for their people. Endearing characters, gritty situations, lots of relationships portrayed very realistically.
The worldbuilding is excellent, hopeful but grim. There is a high body count, including named characters, with graphic violence. Kip is a believable narrator and a great character. His supporting crew is an interesting group. The story is well-written and filled with adventure.
I really enjoyed this story. It is sort of a cross between Star Trek: Next Generation and a coming of age tale. Hoping to read more in the Destiny series.