Book Review: The Worst Ship in the Fleet (Dumb Luck and Dead Heroes Book 1) by Skyler Ramirez
If there’s one thing I love in a book, it’s the ability to laugh aloud while marveling at the absurdity of life—and The Worst Ship in the Fleet delivers on that front in delightful abundance. Skyler Ramirez’s clever blend of humor and military science fiction caught my eye when I stumbled upon it in the Kindle store. The premise of a self-deprecating protagonist catapulted into a chaotic adventure made me smile before I’d even cracked the cover, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint.
At the heart of the story is Brad Mendoza, an unapologetic idiot who has essentially wrecked his promising naval career by inadvertently causing massive civilian casualties. Brad’s journey leads him to the Persephone, often dubbed the worst ship in the fleet. This is where things get interesting! Enter Jessica Lin—the smart, cunning executive officer with secrets of her own. Their interaction is filled with poignant moments, sharp dialogue, and, of course, heaps of humor. I found myself rooting for Brad despite his charmingly dismal outlook on life. His self-deprecating wit and ability to navigate even the goofiest of situations draw the reader in, making his character feel relatable and, dare I say, lovable.
The writing style is engaging and conversational, often breaking the fourth wall to bring the reader into Brad’s chaotic thoughts. Ramirez’s pacing is nice, though the book is relatively short—just 146 pages. It’s an entertaining afternoon read, perfect for when you want to escape into a world of starships, humor, and unexpected camaraderie. I appreciated the brisk narrative and how it balances world-building with character development; despite its length, it feels expansive.
Some memorable moments revolved around Brad’s clumsy yet earnest attempts to take charge of his ship. One line that stuck with me was a reflection on hope: “We’ll just have to hope that he’s the lucky kind.” It perfectly encapsulated the humor and heart threaded through the narrative—wry, reflective, and glimmering with the optimism of the absurd.
I get it, readers want depth and complexity, especially in science fiction. But for a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this book nails the balance. Comments from others highlight how refreshing it is to read a space opera that isn’t bogged down by heavy drama. Reviews mention it as “light, funny, and a fun adventure,” confirming my own experience.
The Worst Ship in the Fleet is ideal for those who appreciate quirky characters and enjoy their sci-fi with a side of laughter. If you’re new to the genre or just need a lighthearted read to escape reality, I couldn’t recommend this book more. It excels at reminding us that sometimes being "the worst" is the best place to start.
As I close this review, I can’t help but feel excitement for the next installment in the series. What new antics will Brad and Jessica get into? I can’t wait to find out. So, if you’re like me and need a giggle amid your reading, hop aboard the Persephone—just hold on tight; it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
You can find The Worst Ship in the Fleet (Dumb Luck and Dead Heroes Book 1) here >>