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Space Taxis

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He's abducted by aliens to the planet Vost.
He's saving up for his fare home.
But he's got the small matter of a planetary apocalypse to deal with first...


In 1977 a New York Cab driver Mike Redolfo is abducted by aliens after being mistaken for a renegade scientist. Meanwhile, back in 1944 a mysterious man and his Jewish fiancée are fleeing across Nazi-occupied Europe.
Redolfo tries to keep a low profile on his new world whilst earning his fare home, but unwittingly gets involved with a shady gang of alien criminals, inadvertently bringing the planet to the brink of catastrophe.
As the link between the timelines becomes clear, Redolfo must discover secrets from the past that may hold the key to saving the planet.
If you like The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse 5, and Frank Herbert's Dune, you'll love this gripping and entertaining sci-fi mystery thriller.

What others are saying about Space Taxis:
★★★★★ 'A triumph of high adventure.'
Readers' Favorite
★★★★★ 'VERY highly recommended.' Goodreads
★★★★★ 'This is a fun SciFi read.' Netgalley
★★★★★ 'An entertaining sci-fi adventure in the tradition of Douglas Adams.' Amazon reviewer
★★★★★ 'What a gripping, unputdownable story.' Amazon reviewer
★★★★★ 'I loved every minute of this book, it's just the sort of sci-fi I really enjoy, good storyline, quirky characters and so much humour. If you're a fan of Hitchhikers, Chronicles of St Mary's and Red Dwarf this will definitely be right up your alley!' Goodreads
★★★★★ 'Don't hesitate in buying Space Taxis. You won't regret it - in fact, you'll probably be reading it again and again, AND recommending it to all your friends and relatives.' Jude Gwynaire, Author of Aliens in My Garden

Space Taxis has been awarded the 5-star seal by Readers' Favorite.

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Review


"This anti-gravity rollercoaster of a book is a real page-turner for me. It's a genuine original full of interesting characters and enthralling storylines. If you're looking for something new and exciting to get into I would highly recommend." Goodreads
"Space Taxis is a goddam crazy ride...I want a proximity klaxon on my Ford!" Chris Malone, author of Zade and #StoptheGlitch
'If Space Taxis does not sound like a story that sprang out of the minds of two wildly imaginative storytellers, no story ever will... Adam and Harriet Frosh have written a novel that is a triumph of high adventure. This can even translate to an entertaining film adaptation that would have an appeal-like Total Recall or The Fifth Element. Redolfo's abduction, his time spent on another planet, and how it changes him are what give the story life, depth, and humanity. Reading it is a good form of cerebral entertainment.' Readers' Favorite
'I absolutely loved Redolfo's story.' Netgalley
'Fans of both science fiction and historical fiction will love Space Taxis - five stars.' Eric Balch, Author of Assault on Devil's Den
Space Taxis has been awarded the 5-star seal by Readers' Favorite.

340 pages, Paperback

Published November 6, 2020

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About the author

Adam Frosh

1 book20 followers
Adam wasted much of his youth watching Star Trek on the TV and films like Planet of the Apes and Alien on the big screen. He redeemed himself by becoming a surgeon but has since graduated from writing articles for science journals into writing his own Sci Fi and Alternate History stories. As a writer he is dedicated to giving his readers a great story laced with strong, fun and scary characters.

Descended from Jewish refugees who escaped from the pogroms, he is haunted by the stories of the Holocaust but inspired by heroes who put themselves at risk to save others. Adam likes to hear from his readers.

You can find him at http://adamfroshauthor.com or on his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/AdamFroshAuthor

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Jude Gwynaire.
Author 3 books139 followers
November 22, 2020
Fell in love with ‘Space Taxis’ straight away – couldn’t put it down!

If you enjoy reading sci-fi, fantasy, and historical fiction, you’ll find this a great read. Think Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Star Trek, mixed with Fred Herbert’s ‘Dune’ and you’re there!
Readers will immediately identify with the main character ‘Mike Redolfo’, the taxi driver who is abducted by aliens to the planet Vost, and caught up in a sci-fi world that will just blow your mind, and keep you smiling too – for the book isn’t short of humour, either!

But there’s more to Space Taxis than meets the eye, for there’s an intriguing second story, set it Nazi Germany, that unfolds alongside the main sci-fi tale. The two timelines are eventually brought together, and entwined. Splicing together the 1940s, the 1970s, and an alien world in one story is such a cool idea. It makes you want to say ‘Why didn’t I think of that?!’

Don’t hesitate in buying Space Taxis. You won’t regret it – in fact, you’ll probably be reading it again and again, AND recommending it to all your friends and relatives.

Highly recommended. Fives stars all the way!
Profile Image for Nidhi.
249 reviews12 followers
January 10, 2021
This book is a total blast and a unique combination of science fiction and history. This is the first time I am reading such unique combinations with so adventurous stories.
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The book begins with the introduction of a cab driver - Mike Rodolfo.

And this book is about Mike Rodolfo who is kidnapped by aliens?
But why would aliens gonna kidnap a human?

They took him to Vost. The author has given a cool and amazing detail about this planet, its colorful alien inhabitants, the hero Rodolfo's defiant and so much more.
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Well, I don't want to reveal much about this book because I want to get that feel and adventure which I felt.

Go and grab your copies of the book.

The tale of the book is unique, new, and simultaneously interesting as well. The author takes you on a journey of an amazing sci - fi tale with pinch of history too in a way that not only leaves you awestruck but also would keep you on the edges of your seat.
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The writing style is also amazing and the language is easy so the beginners can go for it. The plot building up is very different and intriguing yet gripping at the same time.
The story is well paced and characters are well developed.

I was not able to put it down before finishing it. If you are a tech geek, physics lover , sci- fi / fantasy reader you surely are going to enjoy this book.
1 review
September 27, 2020
Just finished reading Space Taxis for the second time because not only is this book unputdownable, it also has depth and works on several different levels. The intertwining of several different, yet connected story threads is cleverly and imaginatively handled and the engaging central character, Mike Redolfo, draws us in right from the start as we identify closely with him as he experiences all the twists and turns as the story unfolds. I thoroughly recommend Space Taxis. This could be a fine start to an excellent series.....
September 23, 2020
Loved this book. Fantastic, it’s a must read. It made me laugh and cry in equal measure. I couldn’t put it down as wanted to know what happened next. Want more books from this author
Profile Image for Jenna Rideout.
651 reviews53 followers
March 15, 2021
I was granted complimentary access to Space Taxis through Rachel's Random Resources as part of my participation in a blog tour for this title. Thank you to all involved! My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.

Tour blog post: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...

A rogue scientist from the planet Vost is hiding in WWII Europe. New York cabbie Mike Redolfo is mistaken for said rogue scientist three decades later, arrested and brought to Vost, then released with the "sorry, not sorry" explanation that his transport back to Earth will not be free, better get a job. But good news! There's a cab company hiring...

This is an amazingly well-written and hilarious book! Seriously, one of my first new favourites of 2021. It's almost impossible to pick a favourite timeline, but Redolfo's hardened NYC sense of humour gives him the edge and I loved reading his reality-shattering experience working with the tech-distrusting and privacy-seeking transport clientele of Vost.

This is suitably classified as science fiction and comedy, but I would go more specific and call it a space opera. There's new tech, sure, but it isn't explained. "How am I supposed to know how it works? I just install it." It's definitely more about the characters and their troubles and motivations than it is the science and technology they're interacting with. Because of this, like most space operas, I do think this would be a very good book for readers who aren't hardcore science fiction readers or who don't want to be inundated with a dictionary's worth of terminology that requires a B.Sc. to understand. It's a little bit science with a hint of fantasy, but mostly it's adventure with a healthy side of comedy, and you won't want to put it down.
Profile Image for Victoria.
252 reviews21 followers
December 12, 2020
A surprisingly entertaining alternate history book that combines space, aliens, Celtic history, and Hitler occupied Germany. The story line goes allover the place but somehow meshes together and works. You start out with a New York City cab driver getting fired to alien abduction and waking up on a different planet AND THEN you are a pregnant jewish woman working in a beauty shop under a new name that hopes she wont get sent to a concentration camp. There is also mind powers. And a reborn Celtic god. You are a small being with a speech impairment and a drinking problem. Centaurs. Himmler. Alien love triangle because reasons. You feel for the jews and then laugh at something that’s happening on a different planet then get sad again. I might have to read this again.
Profile Image for Tayla Jean.
Author 8 books19 followers
December 7, 2020
This book made me think of the Hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy!

The writers have successfully combined historic events with science fiction. Mike Redolfo (you are going to love this guy!) Is the main character of the book. The book begins with him being upducted and taken to Vost....

There are plenty of side characters, like a couple who are fleeing Prague - and one of these characters, Kominsky, is not human...

I don't want to say too much as I dont want to spoil the book for anyone... just know that it is fun, entertaining and has a satisfying ending. I recommend fans of alternate history and science fiction reads this!
September 23, 2020
I loved this multidimensional, multilayered story literally racing across universes, planets, time and countries. It’s fast moving and gives the brain a workout. The historical segments I particularly enjoyed as they were very sensitively written. The characterisation was excellent and I warmed to Mike immediately. Bringing in the ancient mythology was also a winner for me. Not an easy read- you need to keep your brain switched on but well worth it. A great story, worthy of reading a couple of times as you’ll pick up something each read.
October 11, 2020
Right from the start, a roller-coaster ride with engaging protagonists, vividly described settings, and a fascinating interlacing of historical fiction and sci-fi, the stories intertwining in unanticipated ways. I especially liked the characters Dominik and Marianna; their story was powerful. The story of Mike Redolfo, Brooklyn cabbie, drives the reader through original and unexpected twists, moving relationships and friendships, and a cracking battle scene, with a bit of a Lord of The Rings meets vibe.
Profile Image for Suzanne Smith.
Author 3 books36 followers
November 11, 2020
There were so many things that I loved about Space Taxis. The vivid, detailed description of the the planet Vost, the colorful alien inhabitants, the hero Redolfo’s defiant, yet vulnerable personality, the complexity of the villain Tannis, and the non contrived, easy flowing dialogue to name a few. But perhaps the most impressive of all was the author’s ability to move smoothly across time and space, establishing a clear, concrete connection between each of the key characters without jarring the reader. Interesting storyline and an imaginative writing style make this book a must read.
1 review
September 24, 2020
Space taxis was an unexpected joy to read, it was paced well and engaging throughout. I enjoyed the character development and I was especially a fan of the ESP and the pagan mythology that had been incorporated into the story. I found it to be a fascinating take on history and it filled me with a sense of delight how it fit in with real world events.
I would recommend Space taxis to anyone with an open mind – enjoy the ride!
1 review
September 26, 2020
Space taxis was a delightfully entertaining read! It was an interesting story blend of history and science fiction. The character development was strong and as a reader I was enthralled.
I'd thoroughly recommend Space Taxis for an emotional roller coaster juxtaposed between two genres!
1 review
November 7, 2020
A phenomenal read. It would make a great movie. I was gripped from start to finish. As one mystery was solved, another unfolded in the most unexpected ways that kept me riveted till the end. When you read something this good, you must spread the good news.
Profile Image for Stella Jorette.
Author 3 books5 followers
October 5, 2020
Life isn't going that well for Mike Redolfo in 1977's Brooklyn. His attempts at playing the hero have gotten him fired, he's plastered, and he's been abducted by aliens. Life is also not going well for Marianna Kravova, a Jewish chemist in 1944's Prague. Her husband's forging skills have kept her hidden, but her luck's run out and the Nazi's are hot on her trail.

These two plot lines converge during the course of the novel, and believe it or not mix with elements from Celtic mythology, battle and fight scenes, WWII history, and a cast of characters straight from the Star Wars bar scene. At times the book has a kitchen sink feel which probably reflects the different interests of the two authors, but overall, I quite enjoyed the read. What really carried the book for me was the main character, Mike Redolfo, a decent everyman with a sense of the absurd.

A variety of readers might appreciate this novel, including those who enjoy humorous and first-contact science fiction.
Profile Image for Dan Klefstad.
Author 9 books44 followers
November 4, 2020
What a fun read! Adam and Harriet Frosh wrote more than an alien abduction story. They've curated the literary equivalent of an acid trip across space and time. Now that I've landed, and want to explain this story, it's best to focus on seemingly disparate subplots involving a 1970s cab driver, a Jewish couple fleeing Nazis, and a gang of criminals on a distant planet.
New York City cabbie Mike Redolfo is an experienced, headstrong driver who (we gradually learn) has a special talent for avoiding collisions. He also knows when he’s being watched. But one day in 1977, Redolfo fails to act on this sixth sense, and his yellow Checker is lifted into a spaceship that delivers him to Vost, a planet unknown to earthlings. Team Frosh mercifully give Redolfo (and the reader) a built-in translator so we can navigate this new world with politics and pursuits that resemble 21st Century Earth. Many of the creatures we meet are easy to empathize with because the authors give them human qualities. And the most human-like thing aliens can do is make a mistake: They kidnapped the wrong guy and can’t return him to Earth.
Fortunately, there’s a government program for cases like this, and Redolfo is given a job with Lucky Day Cabs, a firm staffed by diverse humanoids. With the help of a genius mechanic, Redolfo's Checker is quickly refurbished and ready for three-dimensional navigation.
Back on Earth, a generation earlier, Marianna and Kominsky try to slip past roadblocks in Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia. Marianna, a Jew, is pregnant. With the help of communist rebels, they flee Praque for Budapest, hoping to meet Raoul Wallenberg, who today is famous for rescuing thousands of Jews during the Holocaust. Along the way, Marianna discovers secrets about Kominsky, which he uses to clear German checkpoints. If I go further here, I risk giving too much away, so I’ll instead note the authors populate this thread with another actual historical figure, SS leader Heinrich Himmler.
The next major thread, back on Vost, involves Redolfo’s hiring by a criminal gang who need an exceptional driver – and this is where the story really began to gel for me. Adam and Harriet Frosh did a good job of preparing me for the nexus of these subplots, and an ending which should satisfy readers of any genre. Space Taxis is an original and wonderful trip, one I highly recommend!


Profile Image for Eric Balch.
Author 2 books30 followers
November 9, 2020
Space Taxis is a novel featuring the unusual combination of science fiction and historical fiction. The story features the stories of several characters in two different timeframes. The first follows New York cab driver Mike Redolfo as he is abducted by aliens mistaking him for a criminal they are looking for. Unable to return home, Redolfo must find work to buy his way home and ends up getting involved in a mystery surrounding an individual bent on destroying the society of the planet. Redolfo must deal with government agents and blackmail by assassins on a journey of self discovery. The second timeframe follows the pregnant Marianna Kravova and her fiancé Dominic Kominsky in 1944 as they flee from the Nazis in German-occupied Czechoslovakia. Dominic hides a secret that proves helpful in their escape, but also catches the personal attention of Heinrich Himmler.

Space Taxis is an entertaining story filled with well-developed characters on both Earth and the planet Vost. The parallel storylines in the two timeframes are equally intriguing. The connection between the stories is presented as a mystery and the clues within are fun to figure out. The interactions between Redolfo and the inhabitants of Vost are portrayed very well as he develops friendships with several people, including the government agent responsible for his arrival.

Overall, Space Taxis is a fun and engaging story. The two timeframes and the various storylines are interwoven and connected very well. Fans of both science fiction and historical fiction are sure to enjoy this book. Space Taxis is a great read and earns 5 stars.
4 reviews
November 7, 2020
Space Taxis really is one of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Funny, witty, at times incredibly sad and poignant, with brilliant characterizations.

Mike Redolfo, a new York cab driver in 1977 thinks he's having a bad day, losing his job and then finding out Elvis Presley has died. Things take a further turn for the worse when he gets abducted by aliens and taken to a crime-ridden planet.

There's another timeline also unfolding, set in Nazi-occupied Prague, Second World War. A likeable couple are hiding from the occupiers, under threat of death or slow death by concentration camp. Again, this story unfolds in an unexpected way, but mindful of the history. The authors even go on to explain a bit of a mystery from the time that has always confused historians and commentators.

Needless to say, the two timelines come together. There are great characters, both alien and human, twists and turns in the plot to keep you guessing, and brilliant world building.

I don't often read books, or watch TV programmes or films where I really feel immersed and engaged with the world. This is one of those brilliant, rare, exceptions - an exceptional read. Thoroughly recommended!
2 reviews
November 28, 2020
An absolutely amazing book. I loved the unfolding mystery, the two timelines coming together and the brilliantly portrayed characters, especially the main protagonist, Mike Redolfo.
This book excels in transporting you to the worlds portrayed, the mystery keeps you guessing, and you feel emotionally involved in the characters' lives.
The 1970s scenes gave me a real sense of place, evoking a nostalgia for the period. I felt at times like I was in an episode of Starsky and Hutch, or Taxi - and the book has comedic scenes that I'm sure Danny DeVito would approve of! The scenes on Planet Vost were also great fun but also engaging, fast paced and dramatic.
The 1940s/WW2 scenes were beautifully done, again with a great sense of place and also a sense of the dilemmas and challenges living under Nazi occupation.
What I also liked about Space Taxis was the spirituality in one of the aspects of the story - reflected very strongly in one of the cultures, giving a sense of ancient Earth.
Although this sounds like a lot is going on, it really fits together really well and you end up feeling really satisfied at the end. I'm sure I'll read it again some time too!
I hope this writing duo write a sequel, as I'd like to see more of this world.
Profile Image for Jessica Belmont.
1,482 reviews44 followers
March 19, 2021
Space Taxis by A & H Frosh is a really entertaining novel that mixed science fiction and historical fiction. I thought that was such a unique concept that I absolutely had to read this one.

This story is told in dual timelines. I think this was so well done. I think both stories are intriguing on their own, so reading them paralleled together.

The characters are so well written. This story is totally character driven, which is my favorite kind of novel. The authors created characters that I cared for, and was invested in from the start.

Space Taxis is a compelling novel. It is such a unique combo of genres and so well written. Easy five stars. Check this one out.

*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Profile Image for Terry.
Author 1 book23 followers
November 11, 2020
Really enjoyed the blend of factual history/Sci-Fi/ancient symbolism. Think of a lighthearted episode of classic Star-Trek mixed with Frank Herbert's 'Dune'. There's a real depth to this story as it entwines elements of the Nazi occupation in Europe during WW2, with equally dramatic events that occur on another planet in another galaxy far, far away... I can't wait to see the movie version. VERY highly recommended.
2 reviews
September 27, 2020
An entertaining sci fi adventure in the tradition of Douglas Adams, if Arthur Dent had been an irascible New York cabbie from the 1970s. Mike Redolfo is a great comic creation - a fish out of water abducted to another planet. He finds himself surrounded by societal upheaval, criminal gangs and refugees from the Nazis as he is forced to grind out his fare home.
November 8, 2020
What a gripping unputdownable story transcending the earth and the planets out beyond ! Science fiction and somber history of Nazi occupied Europe woven together seamlessly. This book is well written and contains highly interesting characters and storylines which keeps the reader interested till the very end. Highly recommended.
February 8, 2021
A great embodiment of fantasy and history in a very imaginative way. Adam and Harriet Frosh have beautifully combined dark Nazi history, Celtic gods and space travels in an intriguing and innovative way. There's certainly makings for a trilogy and a silver screen production. Thoroughly recommend it for any history and sci fi buffs
September 29, 2020
This anti gravity rollercoaster of a book is a real page turner for me. It's a genuine original full of interesting characters and enthralling storylines. If you're looking for something new and exciting to get into I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for Colleen.
130 reviews12 followers
November 13, 2020
This was a WILD ride!

I loved every minutes of this book, It's just the sort of sci-fi I really enjoy, good story line, quirk characters and so much humour. If your a fan of Hitchhikers, Chronicles of St Mary's and Red Dwarf this will definitely be right up your alley!
September 30, 2020
Original and very enjoyable. Moves at a good pace and with interesting characters that are well formed. Skillfully combines recent history and ancient folklore with science fiction.
Profile Image for Claire.
424 reviews11 followers
March 18, 2021
1970s New York taxi driver Mike Redolfo is abducted by aliens and taken to the planet Vost. Unfortunately, he's not the alien that they are looking for — but there are no government grants available to pay for his fare home. Instead, he is offered a job as a taxi driver as part of a government rehabilitation scheme, giving him the opportunity to earn his fare home. Meanwhile, back in 1944, a mysterious man and his Jewish fianceé are fleeing Nazi-occupied Prague.

Space Taxis caught my eye as I am a huge fan of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. There are definitely some elements that felt familiar and I think it would certainly resonate with other Douglas Adams fans. The beginning of the story and Mike's predicament definitely reminded me of the beginning of Hitchhiker's, but this is definitely its own beast.

The story switches between the point of view of Mike, a group of aliens committing a heist and a young couple in 1940s Prague.

The latter storyline felt very out of place at first, and it's only around halfway that this begins to make sense and the storylines tie in together. These parts of the book are incredibly well-written and really gave a true sense of dread and fear. But at times, it was a little jarring to be chuckling at a joke in Mike's sections, only to be thrown into the horrors of a concentration camp.

Mike himself is a very likeable, funny character. He definitely helps to keep the other sci-fi and supernatural elements of the story well-grounded. I loved hearing his descriptions of the world too, and the various colourful alien passengers he drives around on his travels.

The story itself is very well-written, and I loved the idea of the three different storylines that are each intrinsically linked. There was definitely a very big 'OHHH!' moment when they all come together! The plot is fast-paced too, and is full of twists and turns throughout which kept me guessing, dotted with light humour from Mike's sections.

Overall this is a great read — full of lots of fun, light-hearted humour, as well as more serious elements in the 1940s section. The story is incredibly original, with lots of twists that will keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat. I'd definitely recommend this for fans of Douglas Adams or shows such as Red Dwarf — the humour and the absurd situations fit right in!
Profile Image for Adam Frosh.
Author 1 book20 followers
Read
October 28, 2020
Readers have compared this book to both The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Slaughterhouse 5. You will be taken on a journey that alternates between the hilarious, the serious and the touching, through two timelines that eventually come together as the mystery unfolds.

In 1977 New York taxi driver Mike Redolfo is zipping around Brooklyn in his yellow checker cab. His uncanny knack of staying clear of trouble comes to an end when he's abducted by aliens and taken to planet Vost. On Vost, he's interrogated and found to be the victim of a mistaken identity, the aliens having mistaken him for a renegade planetary scientist last known to be on Earth.

Unable to return to Earth, he gets a job as a taxi driver on Vost ferrying a diverse range of aliens in his cab, which has been modified for flight. Again, Redolfo does his best to stay out of trouble, but inadvertently gets involved with a shady gang of criminals, bringing the planet to the brink of an apocalypse.

Meanwhile, in 1944, the Nazis are executing the remaining prisoners in concentration camps. In occupied Prague, Dominik Kominsky and his Jewish fiancée Marianna are fleeing from the German authorities, hiding a secret that attracts the attention of Himmler himself.

Adam and Harriet have layered these two stories together into a carefully researched narrative based on real historical events. Space Taxis is popular with fans of Philip K Dick, Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse 5 and those who love space operas and speculative or secret history.
1 review
March 2, 2021
Great read and unusual story line.

Not my normal style of novel but well worth a visit😊
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews

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