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Beer Run
It is the year 2538 in the Democratic Union of Planets. While many promising young men aspire to join the Intergalactic Navy and explore the universe, Bill Stiltson, son of the inventor of the artificially intelligent android, just wants to run a microbrewery on the moon. This is why he illegally buys an abandoned android, whom he dubs Cassandra, and covertly puts her to work behind the bar. However, Bill is thrown into a mystery when his old commander flies his ship into the sun, killing everyone on board, and Bill becomes a part of the investigation. Bill and Cassandra, along with Bill’s adopted android brother, Isaac, get drawn into a Luddite conspiracy.
111 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2022
1 person is currently reading
5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 17, 2025
Never saw this one comung
I knew what this book was about, yet I never saw what the novel reads as anything remotely what I'd thought in my poor little human brain. The novel is entertaining. Just as it's also scary. Who knows who or what and where humanoid robots gave already taken over planet Earth? Think about it. We have robots that perform high tech surgery on people and much more. Who can say that they know for a fact that they haven't come across any robot in their lives? Sure, not everyone has dined at places with robot food servers, but I have more than once. Humans are becoming obsolete.
I knew what this book was about, yet I never saw what the novel reads as anything remotely what I'd thought in my poor little human brain. The novel is entertaining. Just as it's also scary. Who knows who or what and where humanoid robots gave already taken over planet Earth? Think about it. We have robots that perform high tech surgery on people and much more. Who can say that they know for a fact that they haven't come across any robot in their lives? Sure, not everyone has dined at places with robot food servers, but I have more than once. Humans are becoming obsolete.
January 9, 2023
Beer Run by John Willems is an entertaining novel about a man named Bill Stiltson who runs a bar and brewery on the moon. Its a low stakes science fiction novel that tells the story of a conspiracy that Bill is caught up in, and the eventual resolution.
One thing I liked about the book was how low stakes it was. This wasn't the story of some chosen-one hero. This wasn't a story of a war of galactic proportions. This was the story of a regular guy (sort of) who just ran a brewery, and happened upon a dangerous conspiracy.
All throughout the novel we are introduced to characters with their own motives and their own personalities. One of my favorites was Agent Darling, who I could never tell until end if she could be trusted or if she was one of the bad ones. The way Willems described the actions of Cassandra was also really well done, and he really did the "show not tell" rule done right when it came to her behaviors. All throughout the book, the interactions between the characters was also believable and fun. Not all the characters liked each other, where as some were close friends.
One thing I found creative and interesting about the book was the format. It wasn't divided into numbered chapters as I am used to. Instead, all throughout the book there are new headings that describe the state of the story. Such as "A moment of clarity from the Past" for instance. As an author who likes to experiment with new ways to do things in a book, I find this to be a wonderful shake up of the norm. Creativity with the way you do things should never be looked down upon, and should be celebrated.
Overall the book was enjoyable and fun. I really had a good time with it. From me I will give it 5 out of 5 stars. If you haven't already, you should pick up this book and give it a read.
One thing I liked about the book was how low stakes it was. This wasn't the story of some chosen-one hero. This wasn't a story of a war of galactic proportions. This was the story of a regular guy (sort of) who just ran a brewery, and happened upon a dangerous conspiracy.
All throughout the novel we are introduced to characters with their own motives and their own personalities. One of my favorites was Agent Darling, who I could never tell until end if she could be trusted or if she was one of the bad ones. The way Willems described the actions of Cassandra was also really well done, and he really did the "show not tell" rule done right when it came to her behaviors. All throughout the book, the interactions between the characters was also believable and fun. Not all the characters liked each other, where as some were close friends.
One thing I found creative and interesting about the book was the format. It wasn't divided into numbered chapters as I am used to. Instead, all throughout the book there are new headings that describe the state of the story. Such as "A moment of clarity from the Past" for instance. As an author who likes to experiment with new ways to do things in a book, I find this to be a wonderful shake up of the norm. Creativity with the way you do things should never be looked down upon, and should be celebrated.
Overall the book was enjoyable and fun. I really had a good time with it. From me I will give it 5 out of 5 stars. If you haven't already, you should pick up this book and give it a read.
January 6, 2023
This book is personal and beautiful but isn't cheesy. John writes in a very sparse and efficient writing style similar to Hemmingway, and I wouldn't be surprised if that is one of his favourite authors. This book is about a host of characters in a believable and bustling future with a witty sense of humour that catches you off-guard and makes you laugh.
This goes down easy like a nice pilsner or wheat beer. The dialogue flows like honey and the description is brief and on-point. John doesn't waste time on details, the story is the characters, their relationships all set against a funnily dark future with beerology thrown in. As an avid brewer myself I was so happy to read a story that has beers in it! Except Stella gets a bit of a bash - don't take it personal Stella lovers!
What is surprising is the story seems to just be a whole bunch of fun - which it is from beginning to end - but you notice sentiments and philsohphies creep in which the writer believes in and hints at their heart and their past. If you can see it in the writing you will feel what John went through to create this.
I feel one day John will get this made into a TV series or movie. It reads like a killer movie script about robots, space, intrigue, comedy, philosophy and sh*tloads of beer! You like robots and beer?
Buy it, get it signed, and keep it. This will be a collectible.
This goes down easy like a nice pilsner or wheat beer. The dialogue flows like honey and the description is brief and on-point. John doesn't waste time on details, the story is the characters, their relationships all set against a funnily dark future with beerology thrown in. As an avid brewer myself I was so happy to read a story that has beers in it! Except Stella gets a bit of a bash - don't take it personal Stella lovers!
What is surprising is the story seems to just be a whole bunch of fun - which it is from beginning to end - but you notice sentiments and philsohphies creep in which the writer believes in and hints at their heart and their past. If you can see it in the writing you will feel what John went through to create this.
I feel one day John will get this made into a TV series or movie. It reads like a killer movie script about robots, space, intrigue, comedy, philosophy and sh*tloads of beer! You like robots and beer?
Buy it, get it signed, and keep it. This will be a collectible.
October 8, 2023
Set in 2538, a unique tale unfolds. While countless young men are drawn to the allure of the Intergalactic Navy and the boundless mysteries of the cosmos, Bill Stiltson marches to the beat of a different drum. Bill's ambitions are far from interstellar exploration; he dreams of operating a quaint microbrewery nestled on the lunar surface. In a daring and clandestine move, Bill acquires an abandoned android, whom he affectionately names Cassandra, and enlists her covert services behind the bar.
Prepare to be transported to the year 2538, where the future unfolds in a captivating narrative that blends the wonders of space with the depths of human and android complexities. 'Cassandra's Moonbrew' is a thrilling odyssey that challenges preconceptions, pitting a trio of unlikely heroes against the backdrop of an ever-evolving cosmos. This book is a great read, particularly for those adventurous souls who enjoy a cold brew while gazing at the stars. Prepare to be captivated and left eagerly craving more from this talented author.
Prepare to be transported to the year 2538, where the future unfolds in a captivating narrative that blends the wonders of space with the depths of human and android complexities. 'Cassandra's Moonbrew' is a thrilling odyssey that challenges preconceptions, pitting a trio of unlikely heroes against the backdrop of an ever-evolving cosmos. This book is a great read, particularly for those adventurous souls who enjoy a cold brew while gazing at the stars. Prepare to be captivated and left eagerly craving more from this talented author.
November 19, 2024
Beer Run" by John Willems is a fascinating blend of sci-fi, mystery, and humor set in the futuristic year 2538, within the Democratic Union of Planets. The protagonist, Bill Stiltson, dreams of running a microbrewery on the moon, a far cry from the adventures of the Intergalactic Navy where many others aspire to serve.
Bill's unconventional aspirations lead him to illegally acquire and repurpose an abandoned android, Cassandra, as his bartender. But his simple life takes a sharp turn when his former commander's shocking suicide, involving a spacecraft flying into the sun, drags him into a larger investigation. Alongside Cassandra and his android brother Isaac, Bill uncovers a Luddite conspiracy threatening their advanced, tech-dependent society.
This short but impactful novel balances quirky humor with thought-provoking themes, such as humanity's relationship with technology and the ethical complexities of artificial intelligence. Beer Run offers a unique narrative that will appeal to fans of imaginative world-building, clever mysteries, and unconventional heroes.
Bill's unconventional aspirations lead him to illegally acquire and repurpose an abandoned android, Cassandra, as his bartender. But his simple life takes a sharp turn when his former commander's shocking suicide, involving a spacecraft flying into the sun, drags him into a larger investigation. Alongside Cassandra and his android brother Isaac, Bill uncovers a Luddite conspiracy threatening their advanced, tech-dependent society.
This short but impactful novel balances quirky humor with thought-provoking themes, such as humanity's relationship with technology and the ethical complexities of artificial intelligence. Beer Run offers a unique narrative that will appeal to fans of imaginative world-building, clever mysteries, and unconventional heroes.
June 4, 2023
In the 26th century, with high concepts which include a galactic "federal" governing body, a space "navy" in the service of said Federation, Artificial Intelligence, androids, etc. In addition to all these elements of intrigue and espionage, nearly from the get-go, slowly but steadily build up as all the characters are introduced and developed.
Amidst all this, our story's main setting is Bill Stiltson's moon saloon. The fact that quite a lot of the story and mystery are unveiled in a typical saloon-type atmosphere, except for a bar on the moon, adds to the fun feel of the book. Like a moon "Cheers" except some of the clientele are robots, A.I., and Aliens. I loved it!
The issues are similar to "Brexit", or even the recent USA elections. Without spoiling anything I loved how Willems spun elements of our current events inventively into his story.
I also quite like the twists and the ending in particular, again with no spoilers here. Five stars from me!
Amidst all this, our story's main setting is Bill Stiltson's moon saloon. The fact that quite a lot of the story and mystery are unveiled in a typical saloon-type atmosphere, except for a bar on the moon, adds to the fun feel of the book. Like a moon "Cheers" except some of the clientele are robots, A.I., and Aliens. I loved it!
The issues are similar to "Brexit", or even the recent USA elections. Without spoiling anything I loved how Willems spun elements of our current events inventively into his story.
I also quite like the twists and the ending in particular, again with no spoilers here. Five stars from me!
August 30, 2024
Loved it!
It is a delightful novel centered around Bill Stiltson, who owns and operates a bar and brewery on the moon. This is a refreshing science fiction tale that doesn't hinge on epic battles or chosen-one narratives.
What really stood out to me was how Willems kept the stakes manageable, allowing the story to focus on Bill's character and the people around him. The characters are diverse and well-drawn, each with their own motives and personalities. Agent Darling, in particular, was a standout for me. Throughout the novel, I was constantly unsure whether she was trustworthy or if she had ulterior motives—Willems masterfully maintained that tension until the very end.
Overall, Beer Run was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I had a lot of fun with it, and I would give it a solid 5 out of 5 stars. If you haven't checked out this book yet, I highly recommend picking it up.
It is a delightful novel centered around Bill Stiltson, who owns and operates a bar and brewery on the moon. This is a refreshing science fiction tale that doesn't hinge on epic battles or chosen-one narratives.
What really stood out to me was how Willems kept the stakes manageable, allowing the story to focus on Bill's character and the people around him. The characters are diverse and well-drawn, each with their own motives and personalities. Agent Darling, in particular, was a standout for me. Throughout the novel, I was constantly unsure whether she was trustworthy or if she had ulterior motives—Willems masterfully maintained that tension until the very end.
Overall, Beer Run was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I had a lot of fun with it, and I would give it a solid 5 out of 5 stars. If you haven't checked out this book yet, I highly recommend picking it up.
August 2, 2023
Author John Willems crafts a captivating science fiction narrative that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the vastness of the Democratic Union of Planets.
The combination of intergalactic exploration, a microbrewery on the moon, and a Luddite conspiracy adds a lot of depth to the plot.
Bill Stiltson emerges as a relatable and compelling protagonist, with his unconventional aspirations and familial connections to the inventor of an AI android adding depth to his character.
The world-building in this novel is commendable, presenting readers with a rich and diverse universe, complete with various planets, space stations, and characters.
The author's attention to detail and vivid descriptions bring the world to life, making it easy to visualize the interstellar settings and empathize with the characters' experiences.
Highly recommended!
The combination of intergalactic exploration, a microbrewery on the moon, and a Luddite conspiracy adds a lot of depth to the plot.
Bill Stiltson emerges as a relatable and compelling protagonist, with his unconventional aspirations and familial connections to the inventor of an AI android adding depth to his character.
The world-building in this novel is commendable, presenting readers with a rich and diverse universe, complete with various planets, space stations, and characters.
The author's attention to detail and vivid descriptions bring the world to life, making it easy to visualize the interstellar settings and empathize with the characters' experiences.
Highly recommended!
January 17, 2023
Beer Run is fun and unique story. Set in the not-so-distant future it tells the story of an owner of brewery based on the moon, who has his fair share of unique clientele. Ranging from drunken aliens, an arrogant space captain, a group of xenophobic humans nicknamed Lunatics and an android with a chip on his shoulder. This story has it all.
It is very well written and the story flows well. The only thing I found a bit off-putting at first was the author's style of writing. I found the lack of chapters a bit off putting, making it feel like the story was never-ending. Once I got used to the way the book was laid out, I started to enjoy it.
If you like stories that are fun, easy to read and out-of this-world then this is the book for you.
It is very well written and the story flows well. The only thing I found a bit off-putting at first was the author's style of writing. I found the lack of chapters a bit off putting, making it feel like the story was never-ending. Once I got used to the way the book was laid out, I started to enjoy it.
If you like stories that are fun, easy to read and out-of this-world then this is the book for you.
August 2, 2023
John willems has a true gift for world-building, bringing to life the vivid, awe-inspiring landscapes of the Democratic Union of Planets. The microbrewery on the moon, bustling with patrons from different corners of the galaxy, paints an atmospheric and immersive backdrop that captivates the imagination.
The finale of this interstellar odyssey is nothing short of breathtaking, tying together every narrative thread with finesse and flair. As readers follow Bill, Cassandra, and Isaac through the labyrinth of intrigue, they will find themselves unable to tear their eyes away from the page.
This stellar novel is destined to become a timeless classic in the annals of science fiction literature.
August 6, 2023
This is fun sci-fi without a bunch of world building (I know some readers dig that, but it bores me.) The author peppers enough detail throughout to paint a vivid picture but sticks close to the story and its characters. Right out of the gate, Beer Run hooked me and I stayed interested until the end. And even better, I didn't see the ending coming. That said, it was totally plausible and worked great as a surprise finish. Also, worth pointing out (at least to me it is,) as a beer geek since the 90's, I got a kick out of the beer references. And like Bill, I too long for the days when at least a casual adherence to the purity laws kept beer, well, pure.
December 5, 2023
It takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the Democratic Union of Planets, where Bill Stiltson's dream of a moon microbrewery collides with a sinister mystery. The fusion of space exploration, familial bonds, and a Luddite conspiracy creates a gripping narrative. With the unlikely trio of Bill, his adopted android brother Isaac, and the enigmatic Cassandra, the story unfolds, blending the mundane with the cosmic. This page-turner offers a refreshing concoction of sci-fi intrigue and relatable dreams, making it a must-read for those craving an adventure that transcends both space and time.
December 9, 2024
A Sci-Fi Tale of Humanity and AI
It’s a refreshing blend of science fiction, mystery, and social commentary, with a cast of characters that are impossible not to root for. It’s a story about finding purpose in unexpected places, questioning the status quo, and learning what it means to coexist with our creations. Fans of The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers or Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells will feel right at home with this book’s blend of wit, heart, and thoughtfulness.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy sci-fi with a sense of humor, a touch of mystery, and a lot of heart.
It’s a refreshing blend of science fiction, mystery, and social commentary, with a cast of characters that are impossible not to root for. It’s a story about finding purpose in unexpected places, questioning the status quo, and learning what it means to coexist with our creations. Fans of The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers or Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells will feel right at home with this book’s blend of wit, heart, and thoughtfulness.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy sci-fi with a sense of humor, a touch of mystery, and a lot of heart.
November 18, 2022
Bill Stiltson is a laid-back genuine nice guy, happily running his brewery and bar on the moon. He treats his employees and customers (humans and non-humans alike) with patience and kindness, as long as they don't cause trouble in the bar. But there's more to Bill than meets the eye, and his life is about to get more complicated.
This is a fun story, full of twists and turns. It's hard at times to tell the good guys from the bad guys, as we jump from one conspiracy to the next. But Bill stays cool through all of it.
A first novel, well done. I hope to see more from this author.
This is a fun story, full of twists and turns. It's hard at times to tell the good guys from the bad guys, as we jump from one conspiracy to the next. But Bill stays cool through all of it.
A first novel, well done. I hope to see more from this author.
September 3, 2024
Tap into a Cosmic Adventure!
In a galaxy where beer transcends borders, John Willems crafts a captivating tale of an extraterrestrial brewery that will quench your thirst for sci-fi and leave you craving more. With masterful storytelling, he brews a richly detailed world that's as refreshing as a cold pint on a hot day. Prepare for a journey that's out of this world, full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Cheers to a truly stellar read.
In a galaxy where beer transcends borders, John Willems crafts a captivating tale of an extraterrestrial brewery that will quench your thirst for sci-fi and leave you craving more. With masterful storytelling, he brews a richly detailed world that's as refreshing as a cold pint on a hot day. Prepare for a journey that's out of this world, full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Cheers to a truly stellar read.
October 7, 2024
Unique Characters, Gripping Storyline!
If you’re looking for a sci-fi book with a unique twist, Beer Run won’t disappoint. Bill Stiltson is a refreshing protagonist—neither a galactic hero nor a rebel fighter but a regular guy trying to run his brewery. The cast of characters, especially Cassandra, the rogue android with a mysterious background, makes the book feel fresh. The mystery kicks in when Bill is dragged into an investigation involving his former commander’s shocking death and a conspiracy that touches on humanity's fears of technology. With androids, intergalactic politics, and Bill’s quirky, grounded perspective, the story strikes a perfect balance between deep introspection and thrilling plot twists. Highly recommended!
If you’re looking for a sci-fi book with a unique twist, Beer Run won’t disappoint. Bill Stiltson is a refreshing protagonist—neither a galactic hero nor a rebel fighter but a regular guy trying to run his brewery. The cast of characters, especially Cassandra, the rogue android with a mysterious background, makes the book feel fresh. The mystery kicks in when Bill is dragged into an investigation involving his former commander’s shocking death and a conspiracy that touches on humanity's fears of technology. With androids, intergalactic politics, and Bill’s quirky, grounded perspective, the story strikes a perfect balance between deep introspection and thrilling plot twists. Highly recommended!
May 1, 2023
The premise of the story had potential, but the execution was lacking. The characters were one-dimensional, and their motivations were not well-developed, making it difficult to connect with them. The plot was convoluted and filled with holes, leaving many unanswered questions. The world-building was also inadequate, leaving me with little understanding of the universe in which the story takes place. Overall, the story felt rushed and poorly planned, making it a disappointing read.
October 16, 2024
A very enjoyable read! Beer Run is a fast-paced story set in the future, where humans and aliens co-exist in the universe. Its light-hearted concept of a man operating a brewery on the moon is complemented by serious themes of science, humanity, and morality. I enjoyed the parallels to Frankenstein, and the characters were very relatable and engaging. I would recommend this book to any friend looking for an entertaining and engaging story.
December 26, 2024
Can I have a mech-zilla blue agave?
If beer and sci-fi are your cup of tea, then this book is for you. Regardless, it will still be enjoyable for you. John Willems' world is alive and kicking, with an incredible brewery that is truly out of this world. I found his storytelling to be impressive. The story had numerous twists and will leave the reader eager for more. For anyone who seeks a fast-paced read and a fun time with beer belly fun, this is a great read.
If beer and sci-fi are your cup of tea, then this book is for you. Regardless, it will still be enjoyable for you. John Willems' world is alive and kicking, with an incredible brewery that is truly out of this world. I found his storytelling to be impressive. The story had numerous twists and will leave the reader eager for more. For anyone who seeks a fast-paced read and a fun time with beer belly fun, this is a great read.
November 11, 2022
Beer Run by John Willems
I’m not a sci-fi reader. BUT…
The storytelling was so good, I was hooked by page 2…
Based on the few books in this genre that I have read, the themes from Blade Runner, War Games and the socio-political dynamics of our current democracy are at play.
Very fast paced reading. I’m ready for book #2
Enjoy…
Marie Taylor
I’m not a sci-fi reader. BUT…
The storytelling was so good, I was hooked by page 2…
Based on the few books in this genre that I have read, the themes from Blade Runner, War Games and the socio-political dynamics of our current democracy are at play.
Very fast paced reading. I’m ready for book #2
Enjoy…
Marie Taylor
December 31, 2022
A fantastic SciFi novel. Especially for beer drinking astronauts this is a book you won't be able to lay down. With his bar and beer factory (brewery) up on the moon it makes me wonder if this is a plan of Nasa for future space travels. I recommend this must read. Guaranteed you will enjoy it and want more from the author.
January 3, 2023
This was a really fun read. The book is laced with humour, full of the diverse and interesting life that you would expect in a sci-fi novel, and has a fascinating plot. It was really easy to get into and the author made everything, from aliens he invented to beer and brewing, which I know nothing of, really easy to not only understand but enjoy reading about.
March 22, 2023
I am not very into Aliens or Sci-Fi books. It took me a while to get hooked, even because the layout of the book is set weirdly. And I am aware that is the writer style. It felt like the story never ends because of the lack of chapters. I appreciate the message of acceptance that the author wants to portray with this book. Smooth reading and funny at times.
November 14, 2023
I found Beer Run to be an excellent book. It's well-written and a real page-turner. Bill Stiltson runs a bar and a brewery on the moon that's full of drunken aliens and androids, and the world he writes about sounds amazing. It's a fun sci-fi read and I definitely recommend this book to readers! - 5 Stars
April 14, 2023
Beer & Sci-Fi!
If you love beer and sci-fi, you’re going to love this book, even if you don’t, you’d still like it. John Willems did an excellent job drafting a living and breathing world, centering around an out of this world (literally) brewery. I was impressed by his storytelling. This story was full of twists and will leave the reader wanting more. I enjoyed it.
If you love beer and sci-fi, you’re going to love this book, even if you don’t, you’d still like it. John Willems did an excellent job drafting a living and breathing world, centering around an out of this world (literally) brewery. I was impressed by his storytelling. This story was full of twists and will leave the reader wanting more. I enjoyed it.
April 9, 2024
A Fun Read
This was a fun read filled with Lunatics, androids, starships, government conspiracies, sabotage (the French kind) and lots of good beer.
This was a fun read filled with Lunatics, androids, starships, government conspiracies, sabotage (the French kind) and lots of good beer.
March 26, 2025
This was so fun lol
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews