js2j@mhuxt.UUCP (sonntag) (05/16/85)
Usually I end up sticking to a long list of authors whose works I am familiar with; occasionally, however, a cover blurb or something will pique my interest, and I'll try someone new. Sometimes I'm very disappointed, sometimes not. I have this rather large weak spot for fast-paced space opera, and HELMSMAN looked like one of those, so I tried it. This was a book that I had a *lot* of trouble putting down. The plot was pretty simplistic, but true space opera afficianados are always ready to forgive that. Baldwin does a good job of developing a coherant galaxy-spanning technology for his hero to use in emerging triumphant from one hopeless situation after another. Baldwin's descriptions of space battles are excellent too. The requisite subplot where the hero chases after the woman of his dreams is there too, and contains some very interesting twists. All in all, I found this book incredibly entertaining. Since then, I looked for more of him in the local B Dalton, and found nothing. (not even HELMSMAN) Does anyone out there know of anything else he's written? -- Jeff Sonntag ihnp4!mhuxt!js2j "Time has passed, and now it seems that everybody's having those dreams. Everybody sees himself walking around with no one else." - Dylan
duane@anasazi.UUCP (Duane Morse) (09/04/85)
This is a very good space opera/adventure story. It involves a young man from a looked-down-upon world who receives his first commission in the space navy. The setting is a galactic empire at war, and the author makes some effort to explain the technology of the times. The main character is a helmsman (pilot) interested in advancing his career, and he has a lot of initiative (similar to Horatio Hornblower of historical fiction fame). The known galaxy in the novel contains various sentients, and part of the story has to do with alien friendships which develop. The story is fast-paced, and I found the characters appealing and interesting. I'd rate this 3.5 stars on a scale of BOMB to 4, and I look forward to at least one sequel. -- Duane Morse ...!noao!terak!anasazi!duane (602) 275-0302