Review of The Worst Ship in the Fleet (Dumb Luck and Dead Heroes Book 1) by Skyler Ramirez
As a galactic adventurer at heart, stumbling upon The Worst Ship in the Fleet felt serendipitous; a military sci-fi novel with a protagonist who is as flawed as he is relatable. Author Skyler Ramirez spins a tale that starts with a humorous premise and quickly deepens our connection to the characters, making it a delightful romp through the cosmos—one that I couldn’t put down.
This story follows Brad Mendoza, a self-described idiot who unintentionally caused unimaginable loss during his naval career. Realizing that he’s been assigned to the titular worst ship in the fleet, the Persephone, is just the beginning of a journey that is at once a redemption arc and a test of grit. When Brad meets Jessica Lin, his charismatic executive officer, things get even more complicated. Their chemistry, interlaced with personal secrets and humor, grabbed me from the get-go. I found myself rooting for Brad’s underdog spirit as he battles not just external threats but also internal doubts.
The pacing of The Worst Ship in the Fleet is brisk, a well-crafted balance between high-stakes action and laugh-out-loud moments. Ramirez’s writing flows fluidly, capturing the absurdity of space combat while grounding it in relatable human emotions. The dialogue sparkles with wit, pulling me into their dynamic and keeping me invested in their fates. It reminded me of the charm found in classic space operas, but with a modern twist that felt fresh.
One of the standout moments for me was during a pivotal scene where Brad faces off against an enemy warship four times the size of his. The tension was masterfully interwoven with humor, showcasing not just the impending peril but also Brad’s humorous self-deprecation. In that moment, I couldn’t help but reflect on how laughter and courage often come hand in hand, especially in dire times.
While The Worst Ship in the Fleet is relatively short, coming in at about 146 pages, it leaves readers longing for more. This brevity may be off-putting for those who prefer lengthy tomes brimming with extensive world-building. Yet, in this case, it serves to heighten the energy of the narrative. It’s like a fast-paced roller coaster ride—quick, exhilarating, and ultimately leaving you wanting a return trip.
If you enjoy fast-paced military sci-fi seasoned with humor and heart, then this book is for you. Particularly, those who thrive on character-driven narratives will find themselves fully engaged in Brad and Jessica’s adventures and misadventures. I’m eagerly awaiting the next entry in the Dumb Luck and Dead Heroes series; knowing there are more shenanigans and character development on the horizon makes the wait all the more exciting.
In conclusion, Skyler Ramirez’s debut in this series is not just a story; it’s an intertwining of laughter, action, and flawed humanity that resonates deeply. If you’ve ever felt like the underdog, then Brad Mendoza might just become your new favorite space hero. Grab your copy—your next great adventure awaits in the cosmos!
You can find The Worst Ship in the Fleet (Dumb Luck and Dead Heroes Book 1) here >>