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Space Academy #1
Space Academy Dropouts
"Boldly going because they're completely lost."
The newly renamed Vance Turbo has sabotaged his own career at Space Fleet Academy due to a desire to atone for a training accident. Unfortunately, his actions result in him getting press-ganged into an expendable crew of misfits recruited by a legendary starship captain. Their mission? To recover a collection of lost sun-destroying missiles that could restart a galactic war. Unfortunately, Vance is smart enough to know something is wrong with this picture. After all, no sane person would recruit this crew to save the universe.
The newly renamed Vance Turbo has sabotaged his own career at Space Fleet Academy due to a desire to atone for a training accident. Unfortunately, his actions result in him getting press-ganged into an expendable crew of misfits recruited by a legendary starship captain. Their mission? To recover a collection of lost sun-destroying missiles that could restart a galactic war. Unfortunately, Vance is smart enough to know something is wrong with this picture. After all, no sane person would recruit this crew to save the universe.
Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
158 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
C.T. Phipps
93 books672 followersC.T Phipps is a lifelong student of horror, science fiction, and fantasy. An avid tabletop gamer, he discovered this passion led him to write and turned him into a lifelong geek. He is a regular reviewer on Booknest.EU and for Grimdark Magazine.
He's written the Agent G series, Cthulhu Armageddon, the Red Room Trilogy, I Was A Teenaged Weredeer, Lucifer's Star, Psycho Killers in Love, Straight Outta Fangton, The Supervillainy Saga, and Wraith Knight.
Blog: http://unitedfederationofcharles.blog...
Website: https://ctphipps.com/
C.T. Fanclub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/14917...
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ctphipps
He's written the Agent G series, Cthulhu Armageddon, the Red Room Trilogy, I Was A Teenaged Weredeer, Lucifer's Star, Psycho Killers in Love, Straight Outta Fangton, The Supervillainy Saga, and Wraith Knight.
Blog: http://unitedfederationofcharles.blog...
Website: https://ctphipps.com/
C.T. Fanclub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/14917...
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ctphipps
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
April 15, 2022
Space Academy Dropouts
by C.T. Phipps, Michael Suttkus
Now these two authors write such great books that it's hard to explain what really makes them stand out. I love all their books but this one was the best one so far in my opinion.
The dropouts from the Space Academy are "recruited" (or die), by a Space hero for a secret mission. Our snarky but loveable dropout we follow is Vance. Phipps has a way of creating characters that really make you remember them, even the side characters. Each character in here is so unique and enjoyable or totally different/creative in personality or species it's a total brain treat! Even the small primate General, that is the enemy, is kind of endearing in a weird way. He thinks he is right! The ship's computer that decides to possess a sexbot to get new input. She is strange but funny!
But characters are not the only thing this book and these authors use to make great books! The dialogue makes the story flow and kept me giggling! Lots of references to movies and books. Snark but not too snarky. Unpredictable and a pure joy to read! The dialogue really brings the characters to life!
Lots of action, twists, humor, but we do lose a few characters along the way... it's deadly out in space! It's also interesting to get a grasp of the story's history, bad guys, god like characters, and more. Really expands the world building which is also done so well! All while I read, smile, and thoroughly enjoyed myself! Can't wait for book two!
by C.T. Phipps, Michael Suttkus
Now these two authors write such great books that it's hard to explain what really makes them stand out. I love all their books but this one was the best one so far in my opinion.
The dropouts from the Space Academy are "recruited" (or die), by a Space hero for a secret mission. Our snarky but loveable dropout we follow is Vance. Phipps has a way of creating characters that really make you remember them, even the side characters. Each character in here is so unique and enjoyable or totally different/creative in personality or species it's a total brain treat! Even the small primate General, that is the enemy, is kind of endearing in a weird way. He thinks he is right! The ship's computer that decides to possess a sexbot to get new input. She is strange but funny!
But characters are not the only thing this book and these authors use to make great books! The dialogue makes the story flow and kept me giggling! Lots of references to movies and books. Snark but not too snarky. Unpredictable and a pure joy to read! The dialogue really brings the characters to life!
Lots of action, twists, humor, but we do lose a few characters along the way... it's deadly out in space! It's also interesting to get a grasp of the story's history, bad guys, god like characters, and more. Really expands the world building which is also done so well! All while I read, smile, and thoroughly enjoyed myself! Can't wait for book two!
June 12, 2022
3.5/5
January 15, 2022
SPACE ACADEMY DROPOUTS is my attempt to do for space opera what I did for superheroes in THE RULES OF SUPERVILLAINY and urban fantasy with STRAIGHT OUTTA FANGTON as well as I WAS A TEENAGE WEREDEER. It is a humorous parody and love letter to Star Trek, Star Wars, Babylon Five, and all the other many science fiction shows I grew up watching. Poor Vance Turbo believes Space Fleet stands for everything good, noble, and honorable in the galaxy--so he has no place in it.
Well, thankfully, he's proven wrong when they kidnap him as a decoy on a spy mission. I had a lot of fun world-building this setting, which is the same as LUCIFER'S STAR only about 300 years earlier before the entire galaxy didn't go to crap. It's also technically set in the same world as the AGENT G books but a wee bit in the future.
I hope people will check this out on the 18th of January when it drops.
Well, thankfully, he's proven wrong when they kidnap him as a decoy on a spy mission. I had a lot of fun world-building this setting, which is the same as LUCIFER'S STAR only about 300 years earlier before the entire galaxy didn't go to crap. It's also technically set in the same world as the AGENT G books but a wee bit in the future.
I hope people will check this out on the 18th of January when it drops.
July 26, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I enjoyed this book! I have read several books written by C.T. Phipps and Michael Suttkis so I had a pretty good idea of what to expect when I went into this book. This was a lighter listen filled with pop culture references galore and a healthy dose of humor. I liked that the book is set in space and thought that the mission was very well done. This was definitely an entertaining listen.
Vance drops out of space academy only to end up as part of a crew on a different mission. Not only is he being forced on this new mission, but he is also almost immediately made second in command on the ship. Before long, he is the man in charge of this mission and the leader of the colorful crew on the ship. I had fun with their mission and loved seeing the various members of the crew interact. The banter between the crew was fun and some of the situations added to the humor of the story.
Jeffrey Kafer did a great job with the narration. I thought that the voices that he used for the various characters worked really well, including male as well as female characters. I thought that his delivery of the humor in the story was spot on and that he really helped to bring this story to life. I had no problem listening to this book for hours at a time.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this was a really well-done story with enough humor to keep a smile on my face until the very end. I also got a kick out of all of the pop culture references scattered throughout the story. I look forward to reading more of this writing pairs work in the future.
I received a copy of this audiobook from the author/publicist.
I enjoyed this book! I have read several books written by C.T. Phipps and Michael Suttkis so I had a pretty good idea of what to expect when I went into this book. This was a lighter listen filled with pop culture references galore and a healthy dose of humor. I liked that the book is set in space and thought that the mission was very well done. This was definitely an entertaining listen.
Vance drops out of space academy only to end up as part of a crew on a different mission. Not only is he being forced on this new mission, but he is also almost immediately made second in command on the ship. Before long, he is the man in charge of this mission and the leader of the colorful crew on the ship. I had fun with their mission and loved seeing the various members of the crew interact. The banter between the crew was fun and some of the situations added to the humor of the story.
Jeffrey Kafer did a great job with the narration. I thought that the voices that he used for the various characters worked really well, including male as well as female characters. I thought that his delivery of the humor in the story was spot on and that he really helped to bring this story to life. I had no problem listening to this book for hours at a time.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this was a really well-done story with enough humor to keep a smile on my face until the very end. I also got a kick out of all of the pop culture references scattered throughout the story. I look forward to reading more of this writing pairs work in the future.
I received a copy of this audiobook from the author/publicist.
April 21, 2022
I received a Kindle version of this book free for my honest review, so here goes....
Space Opera is an interesting beast, and comedic space opera is among the hardest to do well. If your humour is too broad, it becomes a joke, if your humour is too dark, it becomes gallows.
Yet, for years, a number of authors have threaded that needle, have done so with skill, and still have been able to maintain the humanity of their protagonists.
This is the latest example in my library, up there with Harry Harrison's Stainless Steel Rat, Flint/Freer's Rats Bats and Vats series and Frezza's McLendon's Syndrome.
These are all very funny books, and Mr. Phipps' latest work is also a very funny and entertaining book, free and loose with the pop-culture references and humour.
But what makes all these books so much better than your usual run of the mill humorous space opera is the humanity of the characters, their growth, and the seriousness of their situations. These books aren't joke books, they are books about people joking in the face of hell... and C.T. Phipps has created a hell for them to face. His protagonist, who I admit I found a bit annoying to begin with, has a strong moral core that drives his actions, and his humour and pop-culture references are often used to hide that fact... by the end, I was rooting for him.
First addition to my Best of 2022 nominees and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
Space Opera is an interesting beast, and comedic space opera is among the hardest to do well. If your humour is too broad, it becomes a joke, if your humour is too dark, it becomes gallows.
Yet, for years, a number of authors have threaded that needle, have done so with skill, and still have been able to maintain the humanity of their protagonists.
This is the latest example in my library, up there with Harry Harrison's Stainless Steel Rat, Flint/Freer's Rats Bats and Vats series and Frezza's McLendon's Syndrome.
These are all very funny books, and Mr. Phipps' latest work is also a very funny and entertaining book, free and loose with the pop-culture references and humour.
But what makes all these books so much better than your usual run of the mill humorous space opera is the humanity of the characters, their growth, and the seriousness of their situations. These books aren't joke books, they are books about people joking in the face of hell... and C.T. Phipps has created a hell for them to face. His protagonist, who I admit I found a bit annoying to begin with, has a strong moral core that drives his actions, and his humour and pop-culture references are often used to hide that fact... by the end, I was rooting for him.
First addition to my Best of 2022 nominees and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
September 16, 2022
This is meant to be a comedic parody.
It crosses over into moronic in far to many places. It is an attempt at humor with nothing to support it so it just goes flat.
It crosses over into moronic in far to many places. It is an attempt at humor with nothing to support it so it just goes flat.
March 6, 2022
4.5/5 stars
Vance Turbo had it all planned out. Drop out of the Space Academy and then become a smuggler, like his parents. However, the Space Fleet has very different plans with him.
A secret unit called Scars abducts him and takes him on a mission to save the galaxy. Apparently, his unique talents as a hacker and overall smart-ass are needed. The problem is, that Vance doesn't want to be a hero.
He doesn't get much choice though as it's either becoming a hero or the airlock, which is why Vance begrudgingly joins a team of misfits on a potentially kamikaze mission.
Besides a very authoritative captain who is ready to airlock anyone who disagrees with him, the team also consists of a very human board AI, a blue-skinned Jewish alien and Vance's ex-girlfriend, who not only is a telepath but also sleeps with the blue alien.
Sounds crazy? Because it is!
As typical for him, C.T. Phipps unleashed a firework of hilarious gags, pop-culture references and comedic dialogues.
Space Academy dropouts is a lot of fun and I had a great time reading it. It's not my favorite of Phipps' books but still a very solid space comedy, his fans will love.
Space Academy Dropouts is very much like a sitcom in space with people talking while traveling in a spaceship.
A funny idea is Vance's ex constantly talking into his head telepathically, which I'd say is something no man wants to experience ever, and the captain who wants to airlock everyone and everything.
Like all the author's books, Space Academy Dropouts crawls with pop-culture references many readers will surely love.
I recommend this book to fans of sci-fi comedies and space parodies and, of course, fans of C.T. Phipps' previous works.
Vance Turbo had it all planned out. Drop out of the Space Academy and then become a smuggler, like his parents. However, the Space Fleet has very different plans with him.
A secret unit called Scars abducts him and takes him on a mission to save the galaxy. Apparently, his unique talents as a hacker and overall smart-ass are needed. The problem is, that Vance doesn't want to be a hero.
He doesn't get much choice though as it's either becoming a hero or the airlock, which is why Vance begrudgingly joins a team of misfits on a potentially kamikaze mission.
Besides a very authoritative captain who is ready to airlock anyone who disagrees with him, the team also consists of a very human board AI, a blue-skinned Jewish alien and Vance's ex-girlfriend, who not only is a telepath but also sleeps with the blue alien.
Sounds crazy? Because it is!
As typical for him, C.T. Phipps unleashed a firework of hilarious gags, pop-culture references and comedic dialogues.
Space Academy dropouts is a lot of fun and I had a great time reading it. It's not my favorite of Phipps' books but still a very solid space comedy, his fans will love.
Space Academy Dropouts is very much like a sitcom in space with people talking while traveling in a spaceship.
A funny idea is Vance's ex constantly talking into his head telepathically, which I'd say is something no man wants to experience ever, and the captain who wants to airlock everyone and everything.
Like all the author's books, Space Academy Dropouts crawls with pop-culture references many readers will surely love.
I recommend this book to fans of sci-fi comedies and space parodies and, of course, fans of C.T. Phipps' previous works.
May 14, 2022
Beam Me Up, Snarky!
Space Academy Dropouts is quintessential Phipps (and Suttkus too). I’ve survived the rollercoaster of several of Phipps’s novels before and, I think, all of their joint works. Most notably for me is Lucifer’s Star which was the book which introduced me to both authors.
So what do I mean with that opening statement? The common thread throughout the novels I’ve read is a balancing act between parody/comedy/bathos with a serious, at times deep underlying story. The dialogue is always snappy and with a lot of sarcasm, some innuendo, and a metric shedload of pop culture references. This novel is no exception, though there’s an obvious slant towards classic sci-fi. While this can be a tricky thing to make work, the authors succeed here in no small part because of the decision to give the main character (Vance) an in-setting reason for knowing all of these references. This combines both author’s knack for examining tropes within the genre and either deliberately leaning into them for comic effect or subverting them for the dramatic. It’s this tension between, and please excuse the cliché, the sublime and the ridiculous which gives the whole work its verve.
It’s very much an action filled ride with more twists than an Einstein-Rosen bridge, all while maintaining a humorous tone, despite the often dark implications of much of the events of the story. If you loved Star Trek, Star Wars and any film, series, or novel with Space or Star in the title, you’ll find something to appreciate in the gentle fun poked at those classics.
A word on the narration--very much fit the character, perfect choice if you ask me.
Space Academy Dropouts is quintessential Phipps (and Suttkus too). I’ve survived the rollercoaster of several of Phipps’s novels before and, I think, all of their joint works. Most notably for me is Lucifer’s Star which was the book which introduced me to both authors.
So what do I mean with that opening statement? The common thread throughout the novels I’ve read is a balancing act between parody/comedy/bathos with a serious, at times deep underlying story. The dialogue is always snappy and with a lot of sarcasm, some innuendo, and a metric shedload of pop culture references. This novel is no exception, though there’s an obvious slant towards classic sci-fi. While this can be a tricky thing to make work, the authors succeed here in no small part because of the decision to give the main character (Vance) an in-setting reason for knowing all of these references. This combines both author’s knack for examining tropes within the genre and either deliberately leaning into them for comic effect or subverting them for the dramatic. It’s this tension between, and please excuse the cliché, the sublime and the ridiculous which gives the whole work its verve.
It’s very much an action filled ride with more twists than an Einstein-Rosen bridge, all while maintaining a humorous tone, despite the often dark implications of much of the events of the story. If you loved Star Trek, Star Wars and any film, series, or novel with Space or Star in the title, you’ll find something to appreciate in the gentle fun poked at those classics.
A word on the narration--very much fit the character, perfect choice if you ask me.
February 20, 2022
The curse of "humorous" science fiction is the definition many comedians stoop to as well. Crude, foul-mouthed, and snarky...oh, and there's a story somewhere.
The set-up for this story was fine, and the publisher's description sounded guardedly promising. But the author's idea of funny was offensive in multiple ways, and that was in the first three short chapters. Not uncommon among men who consider sci-fi and gaming a "calling," but since I was unwarned and unprepared, a very unhappy learning experience.
The plot was mildly inventive, but drowned in pseudo-snappy dialogue and gutter humor. I found no redeeming qualities, and cannot recommend this book to anyone I like or dislike.
I strongly urge the publishers to warn future readers of the content, to prevent more unhappy reviews--however truthful and heartfelt.
Warning: Obscene language and content. This is book is not appropriate for children. The movie rating would be "R" for language, sexual themes, and crude humor.
1/5 Stars, -1 Star for unfunny humor.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the free preview of this ebook. The review was voluntary.
#SpaceAcademyDropouts #NetGalley
The set-up for this story was fine, and the publisher's description sounded guardedly promising. But the author's idea of funny was offensive in multiple ways, and that was in the first three short chapters. Not uncommon among men who consider sci-fi and gaming a "calling," but since I was unwarned and unprepared, a very unhappy learning experience.
The plot was mildly inventive, but drowned in pseudo-snappy dialogue and gutter humor. I found no redeeming qualities, and cannot recommend this book to anyone I like or dislike.
I strongly urge the publishers to warn future readers of the content, to prevent more unhappy reviews--however truthful and heartfelt.
Warning: Obscene language and content. This is book is not appropriate for children. The movie rating would be "R" for language, sexual themes, and crude humor.
1/5 Stars, -1 Star for unfunny humor.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the free preview of this ebook. The review was voluntary.
#SpaceAcademyDropouts #NetGalley
February 20, 2022
Phipps' novels are like a favorite pair of jeans -- casual, comfortable and comforting, something you'll want inhabit forever. Despite the constant danger, there's a goofiness that is all but irresistible, similar to but distinct from the work of Douglas Adams (whom Phipps references more than once). I'm also reminded of Jerry's apartment on Seinfeld. It's just a place where all the fun stuff happens. All. The. Time.
In this case, Space Academy Dropouts is the story of a roguish cadet-in-training (Vance Turbo) who finds himself way over his head, and I mean WAY over his head, almost as soon as the story begins. I don't want to give away any of the plot details, but suffice it to say there are more twists and turns than a snake ball, including betrayals, surprise alliances, the threat of galactic annihilation and new my favorite thing in the cosmos - our hero having sex with a spaceship. How do you top THAT? I'm curious to see where this goes, as it's hard to imagine Phipps coming up with a bigger threat than Turbo has already faced. But Phipps is anything, it's endlessly inventive.
Read this book. You'll laugh yourself silly.
In this case, Space Academy Dropouts is the story of a roguish cadet-in-training (Vance Turbo) who finds himself way over his head, and I mean WAY over his head, almost as soon as the story begins. I don't want to give away any of the plot details, but suffice it to say there are more twists and turns than a snake ball, including betrayals, surprise alliances, the threat of galactic annihilation and new my favorite thing in the cosmos - our hero having sex with a spaceship. How do you top THAT? I'm curious to see where this goes, as it's hard to imagine Phipps coming up with a bigger threat than Turbo has already faced. But Phipps is anything, it's endlessly inventive.
Read this book. You'll laugh yourself silly.
January 18, 2022
A genuinely hilarious new Space Novel!
This was easily one of the best books I've read in a while.
If I could sum it up, I'd say this is like if Mass Effect 2 had Dragon Age's silly Hawke option.
This is somewhat of a satirical take on Star Trek and it's "utopian" future, featuring the newly renamed Vance Turbo. The nephew of a famous space hero, Vance is tortured by the accidental death of a fellow space cadet. So much so, that he gets himself expelled from the academy, when he is summarily conscripted by a shady arm of the spy sector.
I won't spoil more than that, but the writing was tight, the dialogue was genuinely hilarious (to the point where I was getting odd looks whilst guffawing as I read), and there were so many twists that I never saw coming.
If you like Star Trek, or sci-fi in general, you will absolutely love this book.
This was easily one of the best books I've read in a while.
If I could sum it up, I'd say this is like if Mass Effect 2 had Dragon Age's silly Hawke option.
This is somewhat of a satirical take on Star Trek and it's "utopian" future, featuring the newly renamed Vance Turbo. The nephew of a famous space hero, Vance is tortured by the accidental death of a fellow space cadet. So much so, that he gets himself expelled from the academy, when he is summarily conscripted by a shady arm of the spy sector.
I won't spoil more than that, but the writing was tight, the dialogue was genuinely hilarious (to the point where I was getting odd looks whilst guffawing as I read), and there were so many twists that I never saw coming.
If you like Star Trek, or sci-fi in general, you will absolutely love this book.
April 24, 2022
So Borking Good
Seeing the cover of Space Academy Dropouts made me so excited. I LOVE when Phipps and Kafer work together. I’m not even sure how many books of theirs I’ve read and reviewed but it’s a lot (a quick look showed me at least 16 books). Kafer is able to perform Phipps and Suttkus’s snarky comedy so well and really makes their books better.
It’s weird to start this review out by saying “are you surprised I enjoyed this book?” Because, as mentioned above, this isn’t my first, or even tenth book I’ve reviewed from Phipps – nor is it even my tenth review of a book that Phipps and Kafer have done together. Easily the best part about the two of them working together (with Suttkus, I don’t want to forget about him) is that Phipps and Suttkus’s humor throughout the book is always perfectly performed by Kafer.
Space Academy Dropouts was full of funny and interesting moments. Phipps and Suttkus wrote a book that without the humor would have been a good space opera. But… then you throw in the humor and it’s an even better book. I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen to the crew next but I also couldn’t wait for the next random funny thing to be said.
Overall, Space Academy Dropouts was, as I said above, great. It was an interesting space opera with lots of great scenes in it from multiple different alien cultures. Voiced and performed perfectly by Kafer.
I’m thrilled that there are going to be more books in this series and they’re coming out on audio as well.
Seeing the cover of Space Academy Dropouts made me so excited. I LOVE when Phipps and Kafer work together. I’m not even sure how many books of theirs I’ve read and reviewed but it’s a lot (a quick look showed me at least 16 books). Kafer is able to perform Phipps and Suttkus’s snarky comedy so well and really makes their books better.
It’s weird to start this review out by saying “are you surprised I enjoyed this book?” Because, as mentioned above, this isn’t my first, or even tenth book I’ve reviewed from Phipps – nor is it even my tenth review of a book that Phipps and Kafer have done together. Easily the best part about the two of them working together (with Suttkus, I don’t want to forget about him) is that Phipps and Suttkus’s humor throughout the book is always perfectly performed by Kafer.
Space Academy Dropouts was full of funny and interesting moments. Phipps and Suttkus wrote a book that without the humor would have been a good space opera. But… then you throw in the humor and it’s an even better book. I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen to the crew next but I also couldn’t wait for the next random funny thing to be said.
Overall, Space Academy Dropouts was, as I said above, great. It was an interesting space opera with lots of great scenes in it from multiple different alien cultures. Voiced and performed perfectly by Kafer.
I’m thrilled that there are going to be more books in this series and they’re coming out on audio as well.
January 20, 2022
A frenzy of fun … in space!
Space Academy Dropouts is a fun, easy to read adventure about how the people left behind can still have a big impact. And, while this was full of light-hearted, pop culture referencing humor, the author still managed to touch upon deeper subjects including friendship and loyalty. I’ll be looking forward to the next in the series.
Space Academy Dropouts is a fun, easy to read adventure about how the people left behind can still have a big impact. And, while this was full of light-hearted, pop culture referencing humor, the author still managed to touch upon deeper subjects including friendship and loyalty. I’ll be looking forward to the next in the series.
February 6, 2022
A borking great time!
This is a fun romp through space with a (very) reluctant hero! I love how every book takes me by surprise!
This is a fun romp through space with a (very) reluctant hero! I love how every book takes me by surprise!
February 6, 2022
Comedy gold!
As much of his work, this series looks like its going to be a trip! I love it! Can't wait for the next installment.
As much of his work, this series looks like its going to be a trip! I love it! Can't wait for the next installment.
April 29, 2022
Surprisingly entertaining
I feel bad saying this, because Charles is a friend of mine (although I bought my own copy of the book, so this is not a review in return for product), but I came into this book with low expectations. The opening description of the characters felt jokey. But I should have known better with Charles. Yes, there's a lot of funny his, the characters do tend to extremes, and there's a *ton* of culture references, but it works. I cared about the characters and their stakes, and humor and serious bits are well balanced against each other. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
I feel bad saying this, because Charles is a friend of mine (although I bought my own copy of the book, so this is not a review in return for product), but I came into this book with low expectations. The opening description of the characters felt jokey. But I should have known better with Charles. Yes, there's a lot of funny his, the characters do tend to extremes, and there's a *ton* of culture references, but it works. I cared about the characters and their stakes, and humor and serious bits are well balanced against each other. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
January 24, 2022
Another hilarious, entertaining outing!
CT Phipps delivers again in Space Academy Dropouts, another hilarious skewering of accepted genre tropes wrapped in sympathetic characters and an ingenious story.
Yes, in addition to being hilarious, these characters really ARE sympathetic. The reader gets the distinct feeling that these characters really are trying their best, and the times that they fall down feels eerily familiar.
If you're already familiar with Mr Phipps' writing, then you'll feel right at home. And if you haven't read any of the other hilarious books by CT Phipps, what took you so long? Get reading!
CT Phipps delivers again in Space Academy Dropouts, another hilarious skewering of accepted genre tropes wrapped in sympathetic characters and an ingenious story.
Yes, in addition to being hilarious, these characters really ARE sympathetic. The reader gets the distinct feeling that these characters really are trying their best, and the times that they fall down feels eerily familiar.
If you're already familiar with Mr Phipps' writing, then you'll feel right at home. And if you haven't read any of the other hilarious books by CT Phipps, what took you so long? Get reading!
December 24, 2022
This book was something between a satire/parody and what you'd expect from your average self-published space opera. It's kind of loose with the characters and the plot and leans heavily on pop culture references. Unfortunately, it's not all that funny, which makes it lose a lot of the charm of these kinds of books. It's significantly better than an equivalent quality book where it's played totally seriously, like
A Ripple in Time
by Victor Zugg or
New York Deep
by Andrew Morgan.
In some ways, this book reminds me of Space Opera by Catherine Valente, except that book was terrible, and this is much better. I can see this book appealing to a certain person, but I don't think I'll be reading any more from this series.
In some ways, this book reminds me of Space Opera by Catherine Valente, except that book was terrible, and this is much better. I can see this book appealing to a certain person, but I don't think I'll be reading any more from this series.
June 5, 2025
I am convinced this story was written by a 14-year old boy.
Seriously.
I guess I subconsciously was expecting another book entirely because of Jeffrey Kafer's narration. But this was just chock full of very bad jokes. I confess that I did laugh out loud at the banter a couple of times, but overall? It was pretty weak. The main character couldn't decide if he was a go-by-the-rules guy or a total rebel. There were just too many conflicting aspects to his character. The other characters really did seem to be bad copies of another series I really like.
So not a total waste of time, but certainly not enough to continue the series. And Jeffrey Kafer, as much as I really like his narration, needs some coaching on how to do a British accent. He does all the others so well - French, Russian - but that British thing is just not working. I mean that as a very inconsequential criticism because his narration overall is stellar.
Seriously.
I guess I subconsciously was expecting another book entirely because of Jeffrey Kafer's narration. But this was just chock full of very bad jokes. I confess that I did laugh out loud at the banter a couple of times, but overall? It was pretty weak. The main character couldn't decide if he was a go-by-the-rules guy or a total rebel. There were just too many conflicting aspects to his character. The other characters really did seem to be bad copies of another series I really like.
So not a total waste of time, but certainly not enough to continue the series. And Jeffrey Kafer, as much as I really like his narration, needs some coaching on how to do a British accent. He does all the others so well - French, Russian - but that British thing is just not working. I mean that as a very inconsequential criticism because his narration overall is stellar.
April 30, 2022
Sci-fi is not something that I would normally I’d pick up but I’m pleased I did. The reason I picked it up was because I like the authors other work and this is definitely up to his usual standard.
The is humour throughout even though plot revolves around some missing star killing missiles.
The world building is very Star Trek around a federation and opposing empire. The story revolves a crew of misfits with a newly dropped out space cadet who gets promoted above his experience. The characters are well written and no one is what they seem.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and am looking forward to book 2.
The is humour throughout even though plot revolves around some missing star killing missiles.
The world building is very Star Trek around a federation and opposing empire. The story revolves a crew of misfits with a newly dropped out space cadet who gets promoted above his experience. The characters are well written and no one is what they seem.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and am looking forward to book 2.
March 5, 2024
Really bad. Not funny at all. Really kind of dumb. DNF
January 27, 2022
I am a person who runs on snark. Okay, occasionally, I use proper and polite language, but in many of the books that I read, I usually appreciate the character with the most snark. Which means that I fully expected CT Phipps and Michael Suttkuss’ Space Academy Dropouts to be a highly entertaining smorgasbord of snark, because it’s written by the Snark Masters themselves. And you know what? I was right.
1. Thoughts on the plot
This book follows Vance Turbo, a dropout of Space Fleet, who gets recruited for a black ops mission that is so secret it’s populated entirely with the rejects of Space Fleet and related arms of the Community. Which is the first clue to Vance that things are about to go terribly wrong. Now second in command of a sentient ship with a crew who barely tolerates him, he must go save the galaxy before war can break out.
The plot of this book sounds, at face value, like any other Star Trek-esque “go save the galaxy” adventure, with little more than a ship, plucky joie de vivre, and duct tape. And you’d be right. Only, the characters aren’t what you’d expect, the solution to the problem isn’t what you’d expect and things are, really, about to get much worse. A thoroughly entertaining plot.
2. Thoughts on the characters
As much as I like snark, I also appreciate the underdog who knows full well that they’re the underdog, and yet somehow manages to succeed anyways. Vance Turbo is exactly that sort of character, and I really appreciated his attitude towards things, as well as the marginally relevant internal monologues that he had. The other characters were equally entertaining, but they definitely served to highlight his struggles. Perfectly acceptable in a first-person narrated story, and in this case, absolutely wonderful to read.
3. Favourite part
The ending. It goes against everything those standard “save the galaxy” stories are meant to do at the end, and I couldn’t help but snort-laugh at the various reactions.
4. Critique
Frankly, I haven’t got one. This book was far to entertaining to get caught up in critique.
Overall, I’d say that Space Academy Dropout is a great foray into the world of space opera and space comedy, with a bit of action and adventure thrown in. If you’re having a bad day, or even a really good one, this is a book that will make things better.
1. Thoughts on the plot
This book follows Vance Turbo, a dropout of Space Fleet, who gets recruited for a black ops mission that is so secret it’s populated entirely with the rejects of Space Fleet and related arms of the Community. Which is the first clue to Vance that things are about to go terribly wrong. Now second in command of a sentient ship with a crew who barely tolerates him, he must go save the galaxy before war can break out.
The plot of this book sounds, at face value, like any other Star Trek-esque “go save the galaxy” adventure, with little more than a ship, plucky joie de vivre, and duct tape. And you’d be right. Only, the characters aren’t what you’d expect, the solution to the problem isn’t what you’d expect and things are, really, about to get much worse. A thoroughly entertaining plot.
2. Thoughts on the characters
As much as I like snark, I also appreciate the underdog who knows full well that they’re the underdog, and yet somehow manages to succeed anyways. Vance Turbo is exactly that sort of character, and I really appreciated his attitude towards things, as well as the marginally relevant internal monologues that he had. The other characters were equally entertaining, but they definitely served to highlight his struggles. Perfectly acceptable in a first-person narrated story, and in this case, absolutely wonderful to read.
3. Favourite part
The ending. It goes against everything those standard “save the galaxy” stories are meant to do at the end, and I couldn’t help but snort-laugh at the various reactions.
4. Critique
Frankly, I haven’t got one. This book was far to entertaining to get caught up in critique.
Overall, I’d say that Space Academy Dropout is a great foray into the world of space opera and space comedy, with a bit of action and adventure thrown in. If you’re having a bad day, or even a really good one, this is a book that will make things better.
October 12, 2023
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
I’m not a huge fan of space operas in books. I shouldn’t say that. I just don’t pick them up very often. So I would say I’m very picky about picking up a space opera story. I’m a huge fan of C.T. Phipps and Michael Suttkus. I’ve read them in several different genres and I always have a great time with their stories. I do watch more space operas than I read and most are referenced at some point in this story. And even the ones I didn’t watch, didn’t mean that I missed any part of the story. It was all still fun.
Space Academy Dropouts is exactly what I would expect from Phipps and Suttkus. It was a fast paced story with lots of snark and even more pop culture references. The characters are all people you would want to meet and hang out with if you could.
We follow our main character, Vance Turbo, which is a name he chose, as he is abducted to be part of a mission to save the galaxy. That sounds great, like why abduct him, right? Well, the plan is that his team is cannon fodder that is unlikely to survive the mission. Also on the mission is Vance’s ex-girlfriend who is a telepath, so can read his mind. And an AI that takes on the body of a very human-like android.
Not only are the characters wonderful and the story funny, it is also action-packed with loads of twists and turns. I don’t want to get into too much detail about the story, because I don’t want to give anything away. But if you enjoyed Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Starship Troopers or any of Phipps or Suttkus’ work, then you will love this start to a new series.
Narration:
Jeffery Kafer has narrated many of Phipps/Suttkus stories. He does an amazing job with this one as well. There’s a reason they keep getting Kafer to perform their stories. He’s just great at it. He’s wonderful at all the voices and puts all the emotion into each scene. I really fall into the stories when Kafer is telling them. I always look forward to when there is a new book out performed by him. If you’ve never listened to him, you’re really missing out.
**I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not a huge fan of space operas in books. I shouldn’t say that. I just don’t pick them up very often. So I would say I’m very picky about picking up a space opera story. I’m a huge fan of C.T. Phipps and Michael Suttkus. I’ve read them in several different genres and I always have a great time with their stories. I do watch more space operas than I read and most are referenced at some point in this story. And even the ones I didn’t watch, didn’t mean that I missed any part of the story. It was all still fun.
Space Academy Dropouts is exactly what I would expect from Phipps and Suttkus. It was a fast paced story with lots of snark and even more pop culture references. The characters are all people you would want to meet and hang out with if you could.
We follow our main character, Vance Turbo, which is a name he chose, as he is abducted to be part of a mission to save the galaxy. That sounds great, like why abduct him, right? Well, the plan is that his team is cannon fodder that is unlikely to survive the mission. Also on the mission is Vance’s ex-girlfriend who is a telepath, so can read his mind. And an AI that takes on the body of a very human-like android.
Not only are the characters wonderful and the story funny, it is also action-packed with loads of twists and turns. I don’t want to get into too much detail about the story, because I don’t want to give anything away. But if you enjoyed Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Starship Troopers or any of Phipps or Suttkus’ work, then you will love this start to a new series.
Narration:
Jeffery Kafer has narrated many of Phipps/Suttkus stories. He does an amazing job with this one as well. There’s a reason they keep getting Kafer to perform their stories. He’s just great at it. He’s wonderful at all the voices and puts all the emotion into each scene. I really fall into the stories when Kafer is telling them. I always look forward to when there is a new book out performed by him. If you’ve never listened to him, you’re really missing out.
**I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2022
Space Academy Dropouts is definitely a love letter to Trek, and as a Trekkie, I loved it. It's more in the vain of Lower Decks than "classic" Trek, which I also love. It's the poking fun from a place of love kind of humor. As well as showing some of the messy inner workings behind all that polished utopia. The alien races were really fun, and fleshed out the right amount for a book 1. Hopefully future books we'll get even more about some of the different cultures as the pieces we've started getting are well done.
As usual for Phipps, the book is largely driven by the dialogue, and it's wonderful, witty, banter dialogue that'll have you laughing quite often from beginning to end. Vance is the lovable rogue with a heart of gold type character, I liked him from the start. He is pretty much immediately thrown into situations where is he in way over his head and comedy ensues while he tries not to die. That makes it sound darker than it is. As I've also come to expect of Phipps, he manages to walk that balance between ridiculous humor and a good plot. I don't feel the jokes are driving the plot, rather that he's just very good at pulling jokes off during the story that is happening. Like many of his characters, he can take a serious situation seriously, while simultaneously telling jokes to make you laugh about a situation you really probably shouldn't be laughing at.
This might be my favorite Phipps book yet. It does fit the 'feel' of the Agent G and Lucifer's Star books, so I think it slips in nicely between those series. Although. Some spoilers for Lucifer's Star are present, so if you haven't read them yet, and that's a huge deal to you, it might be good to read those books first. They're also quite good, so well worth your time. But you otherwise don't need to be familiar with the other books to fully enjoy this one.
Basically if love sci-fi, comedy, and/or great characters, you should read this book.
As usual for Phipps, the book is largely driven by the dialogue, and it's wonderful, witty, banter dialogue that'll have you laughing quite often from beginning to end. Vance is the lovable rogue with a heart of gold type character, I liked him from the start. He is pretty much immediately thrown into situations where is he in way over his head and comedy ensues while he tries not to die. That makes it sound darker than it is. As I've also come to expect of Phipps, he manages to walk that balance between ridiculous humor and a good plot. I don't feel the jokes are driving the plot, rather that he's just very good at pulling jokes off during the story that is happening. Like many of his characters, he can take a serious situation seriously, while simultaneously telling jokes to make you laugh about a situation you really probably shouldn't be laughing at.
This might be my favorite Phipps book yet. It does fit the 'feel' of the Agent G and Lucifer's Star books, so I think it slips in nicely between those series. Although. Some spoilers for Lucifer's Star are present, so if you haven't read them yet, and that's a huge deal to you, it might be good to read those books first. They're also quite good, so well worth your time. But you otherwise don't need to be familiar with the other books to fully enjoy this one.
Basically if love sci-fi, comedy, and/or great characters, you should read this book.
January 13, 2022
In the tradition of Robert Asprin’s “Phule’s Company” and Nick Pollotta’s “Illegal Aliens”; “Space Academy Drop Outs” is an exciting romp through space with a rag-tag group of military misfits.
Recent blackmailer and Space Academy drop out, Vance Turbo, is violently conscripted into a top secret mission led by the famous, Captain Jules Elgan. Vance must now walk the fine line between expendable recruit on a top secret mission to save Earth, and First Officer to a mix of aliens and evolved humans who don’t believe he can do the job.
Psychics and a sophisticated AI round out the crew as the ship heads out to contested space to stop the discovery of old sun destroying missiles from the last war. With pirates and enemy civilizations all after the same thing, the only thing worse would be if the Elder Gods took notice.
This story is a wild ride. Both funny and full of action, it manages to skip the more serious tone of most sci-fi epics and settles into a quick witted and fast paced trip to the scummiest hive of villainy in known space.
While a lot of fun, the stakes are very real and make for an exciting adventure where not everyone walks away.
This is the rare instance of sci-fi humor that I have not seen since Douglas Adams’ “Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy”. Highly recommended! 10/10
Recent blackmailer and Space Academy drop out, Vance Turbo, is violently conscripted into a top secret mission led by the famous, Captain Jules Elgan. Vance must now walk the fine line between expendable recruit on a top secret mission to save Earth, and First Officer to a mix of aliens and evolved humans who don’t believe he can do the job.
Psychics and a sophisticated AI round out the crew as the ship heads out to contested space to stop the discovery of old sun destroying missiles from the last war. With pirates and enemy civilizations all after the same thing, the only thing worse would be if the Elder Gods took notice.
This story is a wild ride. Both funny and full of action, it manages to skip the more serious tone of most sci-fi epics and settles into a quick witted and fast paced trip to the scummiest hive of villainy in known space.
While a lot of fun, the stakes are very real and make for an exciting adventure where not everyone walks away.
This is the rare instance of sci-fi humor that I have not seen since Douglas Adams’ “Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy”. Highly recommended! 10/10
January 30, 2022
Space Academy Dropouts is a high adventure farce that was a quick and fun read. I’d highly recommend it for fans of humorous sci-fi, or just sci-fi, or just humor.
Captain Vance Turbo, yes he legally changed his name to that, is a screw up. Sure he is a crack shot, a smooth talker, and just maybe a genius, but he just got himself kicked out of Space Fleet Academy. He won’t have time to screw around though. Before you know it he is kidnapped and force- conscripted into a secret plot to save the universe. Some solar scale weapons of mass destruction have gone missing and Vance and a crew of misfits will have to go into the galactic badlands to track them down before it sparks a full blown interstellar war.
The characters were developed enough to be interesting and all of them had funny quirks that that made for a gag or two. I enjoyed the humor. C.T. Phipps always peppers in some amusing pop culture references and plenty of funny one liners.
The plot featured lots of twists and turns. Space Academy Dropouts did a great job of setting the hook early and continually upping the stakes. It was fast paced and entertaining. A quick and enjoyable read with a surprisingly philosophical streak running through it.
This book was a wild ride. It was a great adventure full of plot twists and jokes. Super fun!
Captain Vance Turbo, yes he legally changed his name to that, is a screw up. Sure he is a crack shot, a smooth talker, and just maybe a genius, but he just got himself kicked out of Space Fleet Academy. He won’t have time to screw around though. Before you know it he is kidnapped and force- conscripted into a secret plot to save the universe. Some solar scale weapons of mass destruction have gone missing and Vance and a crew of misfits will have to go into the galactic badlands to track them down before it sparks a full blown interstellar war.
The characters were developed enough to be interesting and all of them had funny quirks that that made for a gag or two. I enjoyed the humor. C.T. Phipps always peppers in some amusing pop culture references and plenty of funny one liners.
The plot featured lots of twists and turns. Space Academy Dropouts did a great job of setting the hook early and continually upping the stakes. It was fast paced and entertaining. A quick and enjoyable read with a surprisingly philosophical streak running through it.
This book was a wild ride. It was a great adventure full of plot twists and jokes. Super fun!
January 27, 2022
I had a smile on my face from page one. Take a group of unqualified underdogs fresh out of the Space Fleet academy. And throw them into some funny and exciting situations, then you have a recipe for laughter. This book reminded me a lot of police academy but in space. Even the main character's name, Vance Turbo, made me laugh. The snarky AI, Trish, was one of my favorite characters. I particularly enjoyed the Star Trek, Starship Trooper, and James (or Jennifer) Bond movie references. Of course, there are many other pop culture references along the way. Overall, this is a light comedy space adventure that is a fun and quick read. If you are looking for a science fiction story that doesn't take itself seriously as well as a lot of good laughs along the way, then you've got to read this.
May 6, 2022
After trying to get through a boring audiobook and dealing with some personal issues I needed something to listen to that would make me laugh or at least smile. This book was exactly what I needed! Great sci-fi with a bit of comedy. Excellent new series by Phipps and Suttkus. Great narration by Jeffrey Kafer. I am very much looking forward to the rest of this series!
January 21, 2022
This book is a fun, light-hearted read.
This is fun and funny. I enjoy Mr. Phipps sense of humor and sarcasm. He pays homage to all the "Almost good enough" folks out there and I'm grateful. Think Wes from Star Trek.
There's a decent plot here but the humor and character interactions are the real jewels!
I normally listen to audiobooks. I devoured this in an afternoon.
If you want a fun, light-hearted read then this is for you.
This is fun and funny. I enjoy Mr. Phipps sense of humor and sarcasm. He pays homage to all the "Almost good enough" folks out there and I'm grateful. Think Wes from Star Trek.
There's a decent plot here but the humor and character interactions are the real jewels!
I normally listen to audiobooks. I devoured this in an afternoon.
If you want a fun, light-hearted read then this is for you.
June 2, 2025
This book has a lot of potential, but is weighed down by excessive internal rambling.
I thoroughly enjoyed the lead character—his intellect, values, and competence stood out. Unlike the usual bumbling yet lovable protagonist found in comedy space battle novels, this story presents a stronger, more capable lead who knows his strengths, supported by a well-developed and engaging cast.
So, why the low score? Because of the overwhelming amount of internal waffling. At times, the narrative drifts into extended tangents—random thought spirals that pull away from the core story. These detours made it hard to stay engaged, and I found myself zoning out rather than staying immersed in the plot.
That said, I’ll likely pick up the next book. Despite its flaws, the story, characters, and overall concept were enjoyable—I just hope the next installment dials back the distractions and delivers a tighter, more engaging read.
I thoroughly enjoyed the lead character—his intellect, values, and competence stood out. Unlike the usual bumbling yet lovable protagonist found in comedy space battle novels, this story presents a stronger, more capable lead who knows his strengths, supported by a well-developed and engaging cast.
So, why the low score? Because of the overwhelming amount of internal waffling. At times, the narrative drifts into extended tangents—random thought spirals that pull away from the core story. These detours made it hard to stay engaged, and I found myself zoning out rather than staying immersed in the plot.
That said, I’ll likely pick up the next book. Despite its flaws, the story, characters, and overall concept were enjoyable—I just hope the next installment dials back the distractions and delivers a tighter, more engaging read.
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