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The Tangled Stars
This new novel from an Aurora Award-winning author presents a sci-fi caper of high-stakes interstellar travel.
More than a century ago, the network of MASTTs, the space-time tunnels that made interstellar travel possible, violently collapsed, the backlash destroying a lot of the solar system’s space-based infrastructure. Cooper “Coop” Douglas, a thief and conman is in serious debt to outer-system crime-lord Eric Galioto. While trying to salvage a valuable chunk of a space station destroyed by the backlash, Coop makes a startling discovery: MASTT Primus, the tunnel that used to lead to New Earth, is open again. That raises an intriguing possibility: Coop could flee the solar system and his debt to Galioto and make a new life—and possibly fortune—around another star.
Accompanied by his first mate, the wisecracking, AI-uplifted, genetically modified cat Thibauld, Coop sets out to “liberate” the solar system’s only remaining functioning starship from an Earthside museum, enlisting the help of Laysa Grey, a former-lover-turned-cop on Luna. Along the way, he is pursued by Galioto and dogged by law enforcement and thugs.
And beyond MASTT Primus, the tangled stars await . . .
More than a century ago, the network of MASTTs, the space-time tunnels that made interstellar travel possible, violently collapsed, the backlash destroying a lot of the solar system’s space-based infrastructure. Cooper “Coop” Douglas, a thief and conman is in serious debt to outer-system crime-lord Eric Galioto. While trying to salvage a valuable chunk of a space station destroyed by the backlash, Coop makes a startling discovery: MASTT Primus, the tunnel that used to lead to New Earth, is open again. That raises an intriguing possibility: Coop could flee the solar system and his debt to Galioto and make a new life—and possibly fortune—around another star.
Accompanied by his first mate, the wisecracking, AI-uplifted, genetically modified cat Thibauld, Coop sets out to “liberate” the solar system’s only remaining functioning starship from an Earthside museum, enlisting the help of Laysa Grey, a former-lover-turned-cop on Luna. Along the way, he is pursued by Galioto and dogged by law enforcement and thugs.
And beyond MASTT Primus, the tangled stars await . . .
473 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2022
10 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Edward Willett
171 books117 followersEdward Willett is an award-winning author of science fiction, fantasy and non-fiction for both children and adults.
Born in Silver City, New Mexico, Willett lived in Bayard, New Mexico and Lubbock and Tulia, Texas, before moving to Weyburn, Saskatchewan with his family when he was eight years old.
He studied journalism at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, then returned to Weyburn as a reporter/photographer for the weekly Weyburn Review, eventually becoming news editor. In 1988 he moved to Regina, Saskatchewan, as communications officer for the Saskatchewan Science Centre, and in 1993 he became a fulltime freelance writer. He still resides in Regina.
Willett is now the author or co-author of more than 60 books, ranging from computer books and other nonfiction titles for both children and adults, to science fiction and fantasy for all ages.
His science fiction novel Marseguro (DAW Books) won the 2009 Aurora Award for best English-language science fiction or fantasy book by a Canadian author. He has also won a Saskatchewan Book Award for his YA fantasy Spirit Singer. He has been shortlisted for the Aurora Award and Saskatchewan Book Awards multiple times.
His most recent novels include Worldshaper and Master of the World, the first two books in his new series Worldshapers, and The Cityborn, a stand-alone science fiction novel from DAW Books; the Masks of Aygrima trilogy, YA/adult crossover novels published by DAW and written as E.C. Blake; the five-book YA fantasy series The Shards of Excalibur, published by Coteau Books; and the stand-alone YA fantasy Flames of Nevyana (Rebelight Publishing). He's also the author of the Peregrine Rising duology for Bundoran Press (Right to Know and Falcon's Egg).
Other novels include SF novel Lost in Translation (DAW Books), Terra Insegura (sequel to Marseguro, DAW Books), Magebane (DAW Books, written as Lee Arthur Chane), YA SF novels Andy Nebula: Interstellar Rock Star, Andy Nebula: Double Trouble, and The Chosen; and YA ghost story The Haunted Horn.
Shadowpaw Press recently released his short story collection Paths to the Stars and re-released Spirit Singer, a YA fantasy that won a Saskatchewan Book Award and other awards.
His non-fiction titles run the gamut from science books for children on topics as diverse as Ebola Virus and the Milky Way to local history books like Historic Walks of Regina and Moose Jaw for Red Deer Press, awarded a Municipal Heritage Award by the City of Regina in the education category and A Safe and Prosperous Future: 100 years of engineering and geoscience achievements in Saskatchewan, published by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS). He's also written biographies for children of Janis Joplin, Jimmy Hendrix, Johnny Cash, Andy Warhol, Orson Scott Card, J.R.R. Tolkien and the Ayatollah Khomeini.
You can find Ed online at www.edwardwillett.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter @ewillett.
His is represented by literary agent Ethan Ellenberg (www.ethanellenberg.com).
Besides being a writer, Willett is a professional actor and singer who has performed in dozens of plays, musicals and operas in and around Saskatchewan, hosted local television programs, and emceed numerous public events.
He's married to a telecommunications engineer and has one daughter.
Born in Silver City, New Mexico, Willett lived in Bayard, New Mexico and Lubbock and Tulia, Texas, before moving to Weyburn, Saskatchewan with his family when he was eight years old.
He studied journalism at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, then returned to Weyburn as a reporter/photographer for the weekly Weyburn Review, eventually becoming news editor. In 1988 he moved to Regina, Saskatchewan, as communications officer for the Saskatchewan Science Centre, and in 1993 he became a fulltime freelance writer. He still resides in Regina.
Willett is now the author or co-author of more than 60 books, ranging from computer books and other nonfiction titles for both children and adults, to science fiction and fantasy for all ages.
His science fiction novel Marseguro (DAW Books) won the 2009 Aurora Award for best English-language science fiction or fantasy book by a Canadian author. He has also won a Saskatchewan Book Award for his YA fantasy Spirit Singer. He has been shortlisted for the Aurora Award and Saskatchewan Book Awards multiple times.
His most recent novels include Worldshaper and Master of the World, the first two books in his new series Worldshapers, and The Cityborn, a stand-alone science fiction novel from DAW Books; the Masks of Aygrima trilogy, YA/adult crossover novels published by DAW and written as E.C. Blake; the five-book YA fantasy series The Shards of Excalibur, published by Coteau Books; and the stand-alone YA fantasy Flames of Nevyana (Rebelight Publishing). He's also the author of the Peregrine Rising duology for Bundoran Press (Right to Know and Falcon's Egg).
Other novels include SF novel Lost in Translation (DAW Books), Terra Insegura (sequel to Marseguro, DAW Books), Magebane (DAW Books, written as Lee Arthur Chane), YA SF novels Andy Nebula: Interstellar Rock Star, Andy Nebula: Double Trouble, and The Chosen; and YA ghost story The Haunted Horn.
Shadowpaw Press recently released his short story collection Paths to the Stars and re-released Spirit Singer, a YA fantasy that won a Saskatchewan Book Award and other awards.
His non-fiction titles run the gamut from science books for children on topics as diverse as Ebola Virus and the Milky Way to local history books like Historic Walks of Regina and Moose Jaw for Red Deer Press, awarded a Municipal Heritage Award by the City of Regina in the education category and A Safe and Prosperous Future: 100 years of engineering and geoscience achievements in Saskatchewan, published by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS). He's also written biographies for children of Janis Joplin, Jimmy Hendrix, Johnny Cash, Andy Warhol, Orson Scott Card, J.R.R. Tolkien and the Ayatollah Khomeini.
You can find Ed online at www.edwardwillett.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter @ewillett.
His is represented by literary agent Ethan Ellenberg (www.ethanellenberg.com).
Besides being a writer, Willett is a professional actor and singer who has performed in dozens of plays, musicals and operas in and around Saskatchewan, hosted local television programs, and emceed numerous public events.
He's married to a telecommunications engineer and has one daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 31, 2022
I came for the space opera heist, but stayed for the voice, which is the kind of wry, noirish, bantering voice I particularly enjoy.
The heist, as it turns out, is not the main focus of the book; it goes off, certainly not without a hitch, but with no more of a hitch than anything else in the story, taking up a relatively small portion of the runtime. The whole book strikes me as having been written according to the principles of Scene & Structure , which propels the characters through the story and keeps up an excellent level of tension as they constantly face obstacles and challenges. The crime boss who is the main antagonist gets a viewpoint, and is thoroughly despicable, but not at all a cartoonish villain; cutting to him every so often and showing us something that he's doing that the protagonists don't know about and that will be bad for them, or alternately vice versa, makes the most of the literary technique of dramatic irony to maximize both the drama and the irony.
I've thought for years that having a character who was a combination of an advanced AI with a domestic cat would be fun, and it turns out that I was right. But he is far more than comic relief, becoming a key player in the unfolding events.
Everyone, in fact, is more than just their archetype plus their plot role; the characters are three-dimensional, they all want things which they can't have and strive to get anyway, they all have backstories that inform the action, their relationships with each other are important, and in general the character side of things is expertly handled. Add that to a well-paced and twisty plot and just the right amount of worldbuilding (a lot of the technology is sufficiently advanced to be indistinguishable from magic because, as the character with the first-person viewpoint advises us, it was created by AIs and humans don't understand how they did it, which is a great handwave), and this becomes an all-around triumph. One of the many moments of "Oh crap, what next?" comes at the end, priming the reader for the next volume, and I will be eagerly awaiting it.
The heist, as it turns out, is not the main focus of the book; it goes off, certainly not without a hitch, but with no more of a hitch than anything else in the story, taking up a relatively small portion of the runtime. The whole book strikes me as having been written according to the principles of Scene & Structure , which propels the characters through the story and keeps up an excellent level of tension as they constantly face obstacles and challenges. The crime boss who is the main antagonist gets a viewpoint, and is thoroughly despicable, but not at all a cartoonish villain; cutting to him every so often and showing us something that he's doing that the protagonists don't know about and that will be bad for them, or alternately vice versa, makes the most of the literary technique of dramatic irony to maximize both the drama and the irony.
I've thought for years that having a character who was a combination of an advanced AI with a domestic cat would be fun, and it turns out that I was right. But he is far more than comic relief, becoming a key player in the unfolding events.
Everyone, in fact, is more than just their archetype plus their plot role; the characters are three-dimensional, they all want things which they can't have and strive to get anyway, they all have backstories that inform the action, their relationships with each other are important, and in general the character side of things is expertly handled. Add that to a well-paced and twisty plot and just the right amount of worldbuilding (a lot of the technology is sufficiently advanced to be indistinguishable from magic because, as the character with the first-person viewpoint advises us, it was created by AIs and humans don't understand how they did it, which is a great handwave), and this becomes an all-around triumph. One of the many moments of "Oh crap, what next?" comes at the end, priming the reader for the next volume, and I will be eagerly awaiting it.
January 31, 2026
Stars: 5 out of 5
That was a delightfully entertaining story! I haven't read anything else by this author before, but seeing how much I liked this book, I'm inclined to check his other works as well.
This is part heist, part mad adventure in space, part exploration story. It's fast-paced and full of twists and turns, and it keeps you engaged throughout.
I think the biggest draw, at least for me, was the characters. I love good character-driven stories, so this was right up my alley. You can't help but like Coop. Yes, he is a crook and a conman, but he had this earnestness about him that just makes him so endearing. Laysa is also a great character with her own motives for joining this mad capper. And she and Coop play really well off each other. I could truly believe that they used to be partners in crime and lovers before. There is this easy understanding they have when push comes to shove, and the situation goes sideways.
As far as villains go, Galioto is on the heinous side of the spectrum. A little overboard at times. Though his motivation for pursuing Coop to the edge of the solar system and beyond is well laid out and makes sense. He is a megalomaniac who wants more money and control when this adventure starts, and is forced to see it through because his empire is in shambles and he has no other choice but succeed in the end. You could argue that his undoing is entirely of his own making, though. If he hadn't gambled everything to pursue Coop and his mad bid to steal the only MASTT-equipped ship in the system, he wouldn't have been betrayed and sidelined from his own criminal empire. So he is getting exactly what he deserves in the end.
But the best character in this story by far is Thibauld, the AI-uplifted cat. Where can I get one of those? He cracked me up with his Star Wars and Star Trek references that nobody else in this century understood. His relationship with Coop is hilarious at times. The whole idea of AIs going rogue and what that would spell for humanity is also very well done.
And I loved how all of their plans would inevitably go awry, almost from the get-go, and they would have to scramble and pivot. Fast thinking and smooth talking (and a little bit of coercion at times) got them out of the frying pan and into the fire on more than one occasion.
The ending hints at the possibility of a sequel, but it doesn't look like it's been written yet. I really hope that the author comes back to this world in the future.
PS: I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
That was a delightfully entertaining story! I haven't read anything else by this author before, but seeing how much I liked this book, I'm inclined to check his other works as well.
This is part heist, part mad adventure in space, part exploration story. It's fast-paced and full of twists and turns, and it keeps you engaged throughout.
I think the biggest draw, at least for me, was the characters. I love good character-driven stories, so this was right up my alley. You can't help but like Coop. Yes, he is a crook and a conman, but he had this earnestness about him that just makes him so endearing. Laysa is also a great character with her own motives for joining this mad capper. And she and Coop play really well off each other. I could truly believe that they used to be partners in crime and lovers before. There is this easy understanding they have when push comes to shove, and the situation goes sideways.
As far as villains go, Galioto is on the heinous side of the spectrum. A little overboard at times. Though his motivation for pursuing Coop to the edge of the solar system and beyond is well laid out and makes sense. He is a megalomaniac who wants more money and control when this adventure starts, and is forced to see it through because his empire is in shambles and he has no other choice but succeed in the end. You could argue that his undoing is entirely of his own making, though. If he hadn't gambled everything to pursue Coop and his mad bid to steal the only MASTT-equipped ship in the system, he wouldn't have been betrayed and sidelined from his own criminal empire. So he is getting exactly what he deserves in the end.
But the best character in this story by far is Thibauld, the AI-uplifted cat. Where can I get one of those? He cracked me up with his Star Wars and Star Trek references that nobody else in this century understood. His relationship with Coop is hilarious at times. The whole idea of AIs going rogue and what that would spell for humanity is also very well done.
And I loved how all of their plans would inevitably go awry, almost from the get-go, and they would have to scramble and pivot. Fast thinking and smooth talking (and a little bit of coercion at times) got them out of the frying pan and into the fire on more than one occasion.
The ending hints at the possibility of a sequel, but it doesn't look like it's been written yet. I really hope that the author comes back to this world in the future.
PS: I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2026
Willett, Edward. The Tangled Stars. DAW, 2022.
Edward Willett is a journeyman freelancer with 100 titles to his credit. He has written in several genres, but science fiction is his mainstay. The Tangled Stars is the first of his works to land in my queue, but it won’t be the last. It is an unabashed, old-school space opera that has fun with all the tropes. There was a network of interstellar spacetime tunnels that allowed us to colonize several star systems, but then 127 years ago, the whole shebang collapsed. Our hero “Coop” Cooper is awakened by Thibauld, a genetically and cybernetically enhanced cat that houses the AI of Coop’s space salvage ship, Ernest Cox. There is a collision warning. What follows is an adventure with multiple spacecraft, several snarky AIs, and more Star Trek references than anyone really needs. Tangled Stars is listed as a stand-alone, but Willett has left himself plenty of room to tell more stories in this world. 4 stars.
Edward Willett is a journeyman freelancer with 100 titles to his credit. He has written in several genres, but science fiction is his mainstay. The Tangled Stars is the first of his works to land in my queue, but it won’t be the last. It is an unabashed, old-school space opera that has fun with all the tropes. There was a network of interstellar spacetime tunnels that allowed us to colonize several star systems, but then 127 years ago, the whole shebang collapsed. Our hero “Coop” Cooper is awakened by Thibauld, a genetically and cybernetically enhanced cat that houses the AI of Coop’s space salvage ship, Ernest Cox. There is a collision warning. What follows is an adventure with multiple spacecraft, several snarky AIs, and more Star Trek references than anyone really needs. Tangled Stars is listed as a stand-alone, but Willett has left himself plenty of room to tell more stories in this world. 4 stars.
November 29, 2022
The Review
This was a fantastic, action-packed, and dynamic reading experience for longtime sci-fi fans. The author did an incredible job of capturing the rich atmosphere that honed in on the heist dynamics that the narrative promises while also hitting the witty charm that great sci-fi thieves who are thrust into the role of a “hero” are known for. The author’s attention to detail on the technical aspects of the laws and physics of this narrative’s space travel and sciences was engaging to get lost in and added to the mythos that the author established early on in this read.
The story found a perfect balance between thoughtful character development and world-building. The dynamics between the protagonist and his allies, including an AI-minded cat, added a human element to the overall narrative, while the multiple POVs between the protagonist and the antagonist gave a well-rounded, three-dimensional view of the characters and their motivations. Yet it was the rich mythology and universe-spanning story that the author brought to life that kept me invested in the book, as its use of imagery brought this story to life perfectly.
The Verdict
Harrowing, thought-provoking, and highly entertaining, author Edward Willett’s “The Tangled Stars” is a fantastic epic sci-fi novel of 2022. The grand scale of the universe the author has created and the dynamic cast of characters will have readers fully invested in this world, and the cliffhanger ending will have readers clamoring to get their hands on the next saga of this makeshift crew of misfits and heroes.
This was a fantastic, action-packed, and dynamic reading experience for longtime sci-fi fans. The author did an incredible job of capturing the rich atmosphere that honed in on the heist dynamics that the narrative promises while also hitting the witty charm that great sci-fi thieves who are thrust into the role of a “hero” are known for. The author’s attention to detail on the technical aspects of the laws and physics of this narrative’s space travel and sciences was engaging to get lost in and added to the mythos that the author established early on in this read.
The story found a perfect balance between thoughtful character development and world-building. The dynamics between the protagonist and his allies, including an AI-minded cat, added a human element to the overall narrative, while the multiple POVs between the protagonist and the antagonist gave a well-rounded, three-dimensional view of the characters and their motivations. Yet it was the rich mythology and universe-spanning story that the author brought to life that kept me invested in the book, as its use of imagery brought this story to life perfectly.
The Verdict
Harrowing, thought-provoking, and highly entertaining, author Edward Willett’s “The Tangled Stars” is a fantastic epic sci-fi novel of 2022. The grand scale of the universe the author has created and the dynamic cast of characters will have readers fully invested in this world, and the cliffhanger ending will have readers clamoring to get their hands on the next saga of this makeshift crew of misfits and heroes.
November 27, 2022
This is the first book I've read by this author, and WOW, what a ride. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
Let's start with Thibauld, the AI uplifted cat. Every chapter started with a snippet from his journal and a few had me chuckling. Willet nailed our perception of the feline species to a T. He's my favorite character in the tale.
Then there's Coop and Laysa. They are very well-written and developed. They both have personal growth through out the story as they try to figure out where they stand with each other. Will they, won't they?
Galioto plays a perfect villain, though he's not the only one. Who to trust and who not to? There's lots of intrigue and betrayal woven through out the plot.
There were several times while I was reading that I stopped and went, Man, this would make an awesome movie. I couldn't help comparing it to several series like Firefly, Voyage, and Sliders.
The only drawback for me were all the side notes the author injected along the way. I know it's his writing style, but there were times when a side note took over the scene and totally ruined the pace of the story. Some were not even necessary to the furtherance of the plot.
There's no mention if this is a start of a series, but I hope so as there are a lot of unanswered questions. I highly recommend this book for lovers of space opera, action and adventure, and readers who are looking for a wonderful story to get lost in.
Let's start with Thibauld, the AI uplifted cat. Every chapter started with a snippet from his journal and a few had me chuckling. Willet nailed our perception of the feline species to a T. He's my favorite character in the tale.
Then there's Coop and Laysa. They are very well-written and developed. They both have personal growth through out the story as they try to figure out where they stand with each other. Will they, won't they?
Galioto plays a perfect villain, though he's not the only one. Who to trust and who not to? There's lots of intrigue and betrayal woven through out the plot.
There were several times while I was reading that I stopped and went, Man, this would make an awesome movie. I couldn't help comparing it to several series like Firefly, Voyage, and Sliders.
The only drawback for me were all the side notes the author injected along the way. I know it's his writing style, but there were times when a side note took over the scene and totally ruined the pace of the story. Some were not even necessary to the furtherance of the plot.
There's no mention if this is a start of a series, but I hope so as there are a lot of unanswered questions. I highly recommend this book for lovers of space opera, action and adventure, and readers who are looking for a wonderful story to get lost in.
December 5, 2022
Looking for a new sci-fi deep space novel to dive into with both feet? Then look no further than The Tangled Stars by Edward Willett. As this story unfolds, the author captivates you to the very end. Packed with drama, twists, turns, danger, and a genetically modified cat with a wicked sense of sarcastic wit, this book is sure to keep you thoroughly entertained.
From the moment you open this book, Edward Willet sets the stage for the drama to begin. Cooper aka “Coop” is awakened from a rather unwanted nightmare to find that the dream about an airlock is the least of his worries. Instead, there is a much bigger problem. One that is growing by the minute. Curious? Keep going. It only gets more interesting with the word. Page by page the story unfolds, telling you about something that should no longer exist. Your first thought is going to be—black hole? Nope! Guess again. Because let’s be honest, black holes really don’t grow in spurts and then shrink back into themselves. Or do they?
You’re going to truly appreciate Edward Willet’s style of writing because as this drama unravels, the author also gives you backstory. There is so much detail in the backstory that it easily plays in your mind’s eye with each piece of information you’re given as you learn about the history of the “original” Earth and then the secondary Earth. The leaps and bounds of technology that took place to make it possible—are fascinating! Of course, though, there must be the downfall of those who wish for more, or simply “revenge.” The “original” Earth wanted to remind those where they came from, and took steps to do something, shall we say, stupid. The consequences were heavy, and this created the question—was it worth it?
The first few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat, eager for more. Edward Willett doesn’t relent in the storytelling though, so buckle up. As you read this book, you will constantly see the author’s imagination at play. Conjuring up new ideas to tease and thrill you, this story does not lack in the storytelling department.
Like hidden gems, the author drops in backstory throughout this book. These gems give you insight into the characters’ lives and who they were at one time. Of course, there are secrets to uncover as well. Just when you think you know someone, reality hits you upside the head and reminds you—no, you don’t. Coop is going to have more than one of those moments throughout this book. It’s a good reminder to never be too trusting.
A character who truly shines in this book is the cat, Thibauld. He was rescued by Coop and Laysa before she joined up with the police force (more about this on this book). He’s Coop’s first mate on the ship, and his sarcastic wit is absolute gold. He has an A.I.-enhanced brain, but he still holds his feline characteristics. You’re absolutely going to enjoy his private log entries at the beginning of each chapter. The author really exercises Thibauld’s wit in these entries. The more you read, the more you’re going to love this cat. The only way you’re not going to like Thibauld is if you’re a die-hard dog person because this cat is gold.
The drama is well done throughout this book. Plans quickly go awry when you least expect it. Coop’s originally out to get some space junk in the hopes of a payday, but plans go awry. Things keep getting more and more complex for him though. He’s not the only one with problems. Laysa starts having her own problems when she and Coop hatch a plan to get him to Earth—without the prison sentence and handcuffs. The twists and turns keep you coming back for more as you wonder, what is going to happen next? Are they going to make it? Who can they really trust other than themselves? Secrets start cropping up, and it’s all fun and games until you have half of the galaxy looking for you.
The science and mystery behind the MASTTs are one of the most intriguing elements of this story. In deep space, the possibility of crossing through with the MASTTs help is intriguing and tantalizing. As these characters delve into the theory that the original has reopened, the question stands—what is on the other side? What is out there? Can they survive crossing through and making a new life on the other side?
The deeper this story goes, the more intense things become. Coop and Laysa have a tenuous plan to get them where they want to go, but there are a litany of ways things can go wrong. Where would the fun be if there weren’t problems to look forward to?
The story transitions between Coop, Laysa, and a variety of other characters. There aren’t any clear markings indicating the shifts between characters, however, that’s not anything to complain about. It’s simply another tactic of the author to keep you on your toes. That and all of the surprises tucked into this book.
For science fiction readers and lovers of deep space novels, this book is going to check all the boxes. The author gives you drama, romance, tons of science fiction goodness, and enough surprises to fill a treasure trove. This is one book you’re going to devour and beg the author for more delicious stories like this one.
Pros:
– Delightful characters.
– Gripping storyline.
– Great wit and humor packed inside.
– Thibauld the cat’s uniqueness.
– The twists and surprises.
Cons:
– None.
Lesson of the story: Have good people to watch your back, but beware of technology that develops similar emotions as humans.
Cover Score: 8.9
Overall book score: 9.2
Original Reviewed by Bunny @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
From the moment you open this book, Edward Willet sets the stage for the drama to begin. Cooper aka “Coop” is awakened from a rather unwanted nightmare to find that the dream about an airlock is the least of his worries. Instead, there is a much bigger problem. One that is growing by the minute. Curious? Keep going. It only gets more interesting with the word. Page by page the story unfolds, telling you about something that should no longer exist. Your first thought is going to be—black hole? Nope! Guess again. Because let’s be honest, black holes really don’t grow in spurts and then shrink back into themselves. Or do they?
You’re going to truly appreciate Edward Willet’s style of writing because as this drama unravels, the author also gives you backstory. There is so much detail in the backstory that it easily plays in your mind’s eye with each piece of information you’re given as you learn about the history of the “original” Earth and then the secondary Earth. The leaps and bounds of technology that took place to make it possible—are fascinating! Of course, though, there must be the downfall of those who wish for more, or simply “revenge.” The “original” Earth wanted to remind those where they came from, and took steps to do something, shall we say, stupid. The consequences were heavy, and this created the question—was it worth it?
The first few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat, eager for more. Edward Willett doesn’t relent in the storytelling though, so buckle up. As you read this book, you will constantly see the author’s imagination at play. Conjuring up new ideas to tease and thrill you, this story does not lack in the storytelling department.
Like hidden gems, the author drops in backstory throughout this book. These gems give you insight into the characters’ lives and who they were at one time. Of course, there are secrets to uncover as well. Just when you think you know someone, reality hits you upside the head and reminds you—no, you don’t. Coop is going to have more than one of those moments throughout this book. It’s a good reminder to never be too trusting.
A character who truly shines in this book is the cat, Thibauld. He was rescued by Coop and Laysa before she joined up with the police force (more about this on this book). He’s Coop’s first mate on the ship, and his sarcastic wit is absolute gold. He has an A.I.-enhanced brain, but he still holds his feline characteristics. You’re absolutely going to enjoy his private log entries at the beginning of each chapter. The author really exercises Thibauld’s wit in these entries. The more you read, the more you’re going to love this cat. The only way you’re not going to like Thibauld is if you’re a die-hard dog person because this cat is gold.
The drama is well done throughout this book. Plans quickly go awry when you least expect it. Coop’s originally out to get some space junk in the hopes of a payday, but plans go awry. Things keep getting more and more complex for him though. He’s not the only one with problems. Laysa starts having her own problems when she and Coop hatch a plan to get him to Earth—without the prison sentence and handcuffs. The twists and turns keep you coming back for more as you wonder, what is going to happen next? Are they going to make it? Who can they really trust other than themselves? Secrets start cropping up, and it’s all fun and games until you have half of the galaxy looking for you.
The science and mystery behind the MASTTs are one of the most intriguing elements of this story. In deep space, the possibility of crossing through with the MASTTs help is intriguing and tantalizing. As these characters delve into the theory that the original has reopened, the question stands—what is on the other side? What is out there? Can they survive crossing through and making a new life on the other side?
The deeper this story goes, the more intense things become. Coop and Laysa have a tenuous plan to get them where they want to go, but there are a litany of ways things can go wrong. Where would the fun be if there weren’t problems to look forward to?
The story transitions between Coop, Laysa, and a variety of other characters. There aren’t any clear markings indicating the shifts between characters, however, that’s not anything to complain about. It’s simply another tactic of the author to keep you on your toes. That and all of the surprises tucked into this book.
For science fiction readers and lovers of deep space novels, this book is going to check all the boxes. The author gives you drama, romance, tons of science fiction goodness, and enough surprises to fill a treasure trove. This is one book you’re going to devour and beg the author for more delicious stories like this one.
Pros:
– Delightful characters.
– Gripping storyline.
– Great wit and humor packed inside.
– Thibauld the cat’s uniqueness.
– The twists and surprises.
Cons:
– None.
Lesson of the story: Have good people to watch your back, but beware of technology that develops similar emotions as humans.
Cover Score: 8.9
Overall book score: 9.2
Original Reviewed by Bunny @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
October 27, 2022
The book itself is fine, solid enough scifi (way too much leaning on the gag that the AIs keep quoting Star Trek and Star Wars and the humans don't know the references, a joke that the author found much, much funnier than anyone reading it multiple times will). But for the love of god DO NOT GET THE AUDIOBOOK without at least listening to a sample. I usually ding narrators for making everyone sound the same. This book had the exact opposite problem. The narrator gave every.single.character an obnoxious caricature of a voice that completely obliterated nuance, emotion, and prevented me from ever thinking of them as characters. The cat is the absolute worse. The book itself isn't bad, but it's just buried under the lead voice of the worst ham actor in a local theater production doing an audition for a terrible animated series (and he wouldn't have gotten the job).
November 30, 2022
The Tangled Stars by Eward Willett is a must read for all fans of Star Wars, cats, and space opera. This book is super easy to read. I easily was lost within minutes of reading it. The captain, aka Coop, pops off the page as a real person. He is an engaging yet intriguing character. Then, there is his computer bot-like cat, Thibauld. Eward Willett writes with plenty of humor and mystery. The impending doom that hangs over Coop is felt on every page. I enjoy the suspense of what will be. This book is unlike most science fiction books. I find most of the books in the genre boring by too many details or too many characters. But this novel was not boring and had just enough of everything. I am hooked. I want to read more by this writer. Edward Willett not only captures my interest with this book, but also what he will create next. If you enjoy action-packed adventures, then get this book!
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
December 10, 2022
Thibauld is my favorite sci-fi cat (there's more than one) and a cat was what made me want to read this book.
Thibauld did an excellent job as this is an excellent sci-fi story: fast paced, action packed, and complex.
A story of worlds, underdogs and things that should not be there. There's a lot of humour and the storytelling is excellent.
Can't wait to read other books featuring Thibauld or written by this author.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
Thibauld did an excellent job as this is an excellent sci-fi story: fast paced, action packed, and complex.
A story of worlds, underdogs and things that should not be there. There's a lot of humour and the storytelling is excellent.
Can't wait to read other books featuring Thibauld or written by this author.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
October 30, 2022
I loved this story. It was a great adventure in all senses - there was lots of terrific action and I never knew what was going to happen next. The AI cat is a hoot, and that's not the only source of humor in the story. The narrator's feminine voices aren't great, but he really knows how to tell a story well. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable listen. Here's hoping there's a sequel soon.
November 7, 2022
An excellent story that kept my attention into the wee hours of the night. I didn’t want the adventures to end.
July 6, 2023
"This was the best thing man-kind ever created"
Thibauld's private log
Thibauld's private log
January 10, 2023
Cooper "Coop" Douglas has been a part of many things in his past: questionable trading, Pre-salvaging (which is a kind of stealing) and conning/lying/misdirecting almost daily, but never has he stumbled upon something so big that it could change the universe forever. In THE TANGLED STARS, by Edward Willett, "Coop" has evidence that the MASTT space tunnel system that imploded and rocked the universe over a hundred years ago is beginning to reform and he wants to take advantage of it to pay off his debts and reset his status in the universe. Each plan he makes seems to not go quite right and he has to make a new plan, with each one more dangerous than the last. Can Coop, with the help from his AI enhanced cat, an old flame, and a motley crew of other pirates and criminals, prove to all of existence that the MASTT system is in the early stages of viability again and reap the benefits he so desperately yearns for, or will he get caught and imprisoned or killed in the process?
Willett has created a vibrant, intricate future with very specific details that really enrich the story. Coop is great as a lovable scoundrel who tries to do the right thing, even though can't help but be a little greedy along the way. The book settles into a rhythm, where a problem in the plan causes Coop and his group to make a new plan, then a problem arises and another new plan must be created and so on. A little repetitive, but the unique solutions and twists in the story keep it fun. Coop's old flame, Laysa Grey, is along for most of the ride and I wanted to get to know her a little better; she seemed a mystery in her motives at times and other times almost wishy-washy in her convictions. The supporting characters, human and AI both, added colorful layers to the plot throughout the book.
Willett's book is really one long mission for a man to find his way to a better life and I really enjoyed going on that mission with Coop Douglas.
Thank you to DAW, Edward Willett, and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Willett has created a vibrant, intricate future with very specific details that really enrich the story. Coop is great as a lovable scoundrel who tries to do the right thing, even though can't help but be a little greedy along the way. The book settles into a rhythm, where a problem in the plan causes Coop and his group to make a new plan, then a problem arises and another new plan must be created and so on. A little repetitive, but the unique solutions and twists in the story keep it fun. Coop's old flame, Laysa Grey, is along for most of the ride and I wanted to get to know her a little better; she seemed a mystery in her motives at times and other times almost wishy-washy in her convictions. The supporting characters, human and AI both, added colorful layers to the plot throughout the book.
Willett's book is really one long mission for a man to find his way to a better life and I really enjoyed going on that mission with Coop Douglas.
Thank you to DAW, Edward Willett, and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
December 22, 2022
The Tangled Stars is a space opera following Coop, a thief; his cop-slash-revolutionary ex, Laysa; and Thibauld, an AI-uplifted cat, trying to make the journey from one solar system to another. On the way, they need to steal a ship that can make that journey, avoid the space-cops, and keep a loan shark with a grudge from swiping said stolen ship - sometimes all simultaneously.
Like others, the AI cat was what drew me to this book. I generally prefer my sci-fi on a TV screen rather than a book, but for a cat as a main character, I was willing to give this a try - and I'm glad I did. Willett has clearly spent a lot of time crafting the world the characters inhabit, and it keeps the reader engaged in the story throughout. I never really felt like there was a lull in the action, or that the info-dumps were too excessive. While the human characters do seem to fall into cliche at times, the story itself felt fresh and new, and that kept this from being an issue for me.
I have two complaints, one more nit-picky than the other. The first is that there is a minor amount of continuity errors. An example of this is Thibauld shrugging in one chapter, and then chapters later it is mentioned that Thibauld is a cat and thus can't shrug. There are also a lot of pop culture references and idioms, which isn't a bad thing, but it did feel a little tedious having to read about how no one knows where they came from anymore. On the same token, there are things that don't really seem to make sense in a futuristic galaxy - are Christmas tree ornaments as we know them today still the same that far into the future?
The other thing I had an issue with is the fact that, after a certain point, the book relies too heavily on the plot. I find this happens often in genres like science fiction and fantasy, and while it may not be an issue for others, as someone who generally goes for character-driven stories, it might feel a little empty in comparison, especially considering that the characters do fit pretty snugly into archetypes. However, that's probably more a reader's issue than an issue with the book itself, and I'll fully admit to that.
Altogether, though, this was a fun read, and I'm glad I picked it up. It kept me reading and entertained to the end, and - assuming this is the first in a series - I would happily pick up the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for providing a copy for review.
Like others, the AI cat was what drew me to this book. I generally prefer my sci-fi on a TV screen rather than a book, but for a cat as a main character, I was willing to give this a try - and I'm glad I did. Willett has clearly spent a lot of time crafting the world the characters inhabit, and it keeps the reader engaged in the story throughout. I never really felt like there was a lull in the action, or that the info-dumps were too excessive. While the human characters do seem to fall into cliche at times, the story itself felt fresh and new, and that kept this from being an issue for me.
I have two complaints, one more nit-picky than the other. The first is that there is a minor amount of continuity errors. An example of this is Thibauld shrugging in one chapter, and then chapters later it is mentioned that Thibauld is a cat and thus can't shrug. There are also a lot of pop culture references and idioms, which isn't a bad thing, but it did feel a little tedious having to read about how no one knows where they came from anymore. On the same token, there are things that don't really seem to make sense in a futuristic galaxy - are Christmas tree ornaments as we know them today still the same that far into the future?
The other thing I had an issue with is the fact that, after a certain point, the book relies too heavily on the plot. I find this happens often in genres like science fiction and fantasy, and while it may not be an issue for others, as someone who generally goes for character-driven stories, it might feel a little empty in comparison, especially considering that the characters do fit pretty snugly into archetypes. However, that's probably more a reader's issue than an issue with the book itself, and I'll fully admit to that.
Altogether, though, this was a fun read, and I'm glad I picked it up. It kept me reading and entertained to the end, and - assuming this is the first in a series - I would happily pick up the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for providing a copy for review.
November 23, 2022
3.7 Definitely enjoyed this read and will look out for any sequels!
December 15, 2022
Ahoy there mateys! This caught me fancy because it follows a space thief whose first mate is " the wisecracking, AI-uplifted, genetically modified cat Thibauld." This had all the ingredients for a successful book but didn't gel for me. Even the talking cat couldn't save it. In retrospect, I think the humor ended up being not to me taste. Or maybe I just couldn't completely connect to the main character, Coop. There were elements I really liked and this book has 4 and 5 star reviews all over the place. Wish I could do the same. Abandoned this one at 15%. Thanks to the publisher's for the eArc.
March 4, 2023
Oh my, this was fun in all the right ways--and yet there's rich characters (who grow/grow up/reveal stuff) and highly cool ideas. Take the cramped clunky ships of the EXPANSE, add a conman/thief with a heart of gold (who doesn't remember to exercise), a wise-cracking AI cat, and mix with interstellar expansion...did I mention a nifty wistful romance? Enjoy. I did.
June 23, 2024
Gathered steam as it went
This story moved at a good clip throughout but the various threads and ideas didn't really come together for me until the final third of the book. As most of the main plot was unresolved, and a pretty big unknown was introduced very late, a sequel is obviously forthcoming. I will definitely check it out.
This story moved at a good clip throughout but the various threads and ideas didn't really come together for me until the final third of the book. As most of the main plot was unresolved, and a pretty big unknown was introduced very late, a sequel is obviously forthcoming. I will definitely check it out.
January 7, 2025
A fantastic book that if you are looking for a none military centric Sci-Fi book is exactly what you're looking for. Engaging plot with a lovely cat first mate. Enjoyed every second of this book and will always recommend to a friend. I was upset when it was over and wish for more from Coop and his adventure from outer space!
September 11, 2023
I received an ARC for The Tangled Stars. All opinions are my own.
Genre: Sci-Fi
I was attracted to this book for the sassy cat and AI. The best combo.
Somehow, I didn't realize this was a space opera. I'm ready for more creative and fun books like this. :)
Happy reading!
Genre: Sci-Fi
I was attracted to this book for the sassy cat and AI. The best combo.
Somehow, I didn't realize this was a space opera. I'm ready for more creative and fun books like this. :)
Happy reading!
November 17, 2022
Received an arc from NetGalley, thanks!
a space adventure with two humans, tangled in life, and one sassy cat – for what else you could ask?
a space adventure with two humans, tangled in life, and one sassy cat – for what else you could ask?
Read
January 7, 2023Couldn’t get into this dude caper.
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