Review; Flagship: A Captain's Crucible, Book 1

Review by Paul Fiander

Written by: Isaac Hooke
Narrated by: Peter Berkrot
Length: 8 hrs and 39 mins 
Publisher: Road To Audio

​The exploration of space has been more fully explored in literature than most other subjects. The mystery of the void that is space has been a draw to writers for many years, so finding something truly is a rare thing indeed. Every story appears to borrow from another one, it is however the way the threads are sewn together that allows for a vast array of tales.This is the allure of Isaac Hooke’s Flagship; A Captain's Crucible, it is a bold blend that brings entertainment as well as some high philosophical questions to bare.

Our central focus is one Captain Jonathan Dallas and we find ourselves in his company for large sections of the book. From the outset he is portrayed as a man with a high moral code and that shines through throughout the story. It is in fact this high mindedness that leads him into the Crucible the title hints at. The story takes place for the vast majority aboard the Captain's vessel The Callaway,  but there is a moment at the start of the book that plagues him. It may feel out of step but it is actually a strong introduction to a recurring theme that pops up more than once within the 8 Hour narration.

​That narration is by Peter Berkrot who creates a very intense persona for Captain Dallas, the intensity of his tone can be a bit distracting at times especially at times when you would think the Captain would soften his tone. However this is a slight issue for an otherwise strong vocal performance that encompasses subjects as diverse as Space Battles and political maneuvering. The other characters are voiced in a more downbeat way compared to the captain but each feels right for their demeanor. There is though a slightly stereotypical Chief Engineer who is a little cliche but a whole lot of fun in his complaints to the Captain.

The central story is one of conflict on the boundaries of space and Hooke does a fine job of opening up his universe to us. From the pull of VR to Gamma Rays everything is explained one way or another and most of the leaps in technological do not feel far removed from the realms of reality. This basis in science gives the tale a stronger basis to work from and even makes a rather odd threat to the Captain and his crew feel plausible.

Overall this is a strong Science Fiction story filled with action and intrigue. If space is the place you like to spend time then Captain Dallas may be the commander you are looking for.