Michael Cassutt

Here in America, we heard very little about the Soviet side of the Moon Race, especially once the Gemini program really got under way. Or so it seemed to me as a small child. Even so, my later reading about space exploration provided very little information on the Russian efforts to reach the moon. This historical novel is an interesting (and painless) remedy to that gap in historical knowledge. The main character has a Zelig-like way of being in the right place at the right time in order to continue relating the story. And occasionally, the author's machinations to put him there are a little too apparent. But apart from that, this is a fascinating and well-researched look into the Soviet manned space program of the 1960s. It has whet my appetite to look into some technical/science history books for even more information.… (mehr)

This is not usually the type of science fiction I like. It reads like a summer blockbuster. There were a few "really" moments. Too many "really" moments and I tend to give up on a book. I don't like it when characters do things that make me doubt the writers skill.

Despite this I tore through this book. It was definitely a popcorn read. I was clearly in the mood. It was filled with fun cliff hangers and non stop action. Add in the fact that the ending surprised me a little and I was genuinely entertained. It is pretty amazing when a book overcomes logic flaws for me but this one did. I sat back and embraced the summer movie vibe. Will keep reading this series.… (mehr)