Black Ops: Expeditionary Force, Book 4

Five stars! This book is just as good as the last 3. I'm extremely impressed there isn't a drop in quality of writing or anything. Even more impressed that there never seems to be an obvious deus ex Machina toward the end to get everyone out of trouble. This series has been a delightful experience thus far with enough action, humor, great characters, and description of everything to keep me reading more.

The merry band are back, well, not back, as they never really left, but Joe, Skippy and the crew are still out in space, trying to safeguard Earth from the myriad of threats that appear to getting longer every book.This time, they are making sure that the Thuranin are not a threat to Earth, that none of them are coming back, whilst still looking for Skippy’s Elder ring, trying not to be discovered, and generally safeguarding Earth when they find little issues.These books are funny, like if you are alone, you sit there in hysterical fits of laughter funny at some of the comments that come out of Skippy’s mouth, type funny. Of course Joe makes it easier for him, and on the odd occasion, gets his own back.There are multiple different plots that happen in this story, and it is a bit difficult to talk about all of them without giving too much away. Needless to say, there is a lot going on in this book.As usual, there is the continual banter between Skippy and Joe, although in this book, the banter has expanded to include some other characters as well as although it has been alluded to previously, in this book, there are more examples of Skippy and other crew interacting with each other – of course none of it is as funny and offensive as the Joe/Skippy conversations.This time around, there was the introduction of another ‘Skippy’ type character as well. As a result of some of the stuff that Skippy has done previously, one of the Splinter minds he has created to do a task actually reaches a semi level of AI, and much to Skippy’s annoyances, starts to talk to him with a female personality. He names her Nagatha, kind of like Agatha from Agatha Christie, but she Nags more about Skippy treats the crew.This introduction of another ‘Skippy’ type character, less intelligent, but more intelligent than most humans, is rather an interesting dynamic for the story. It certainly causes some interesting conversational arcs.The crew find themselves in a lot of trouble when they come across a particular issue that leads to the crew taking action for the safety of Earth. These actions must remain totally off the scope though, as any suspicion of their involvement will result in catastrophic outcomes for all humanity (Both on Earth and Paradise).As with the other stories, the adventure is a mix of hilarious humour, stunning tech (some of which is almost magical it is so far beyond the standard understanding of normal humans – it would be fascinating to know where Alanson actually got his material from), some incredible battles, both in space, on board ship, and on the ground.For those that have read the others in the series, this is a must read. If you are new to the series, you really should go back to the start. Although the books are good, the best way to get the most out of these is still to listen to the Audio books by R.C. Bray – the combination of Alanson’s writing, and Bray’s narration is a seriously outstanding experience and is the reason that each of these books has been such a hit on Audible.This is still a ‘drop everything and start reading/listening’ title they are so good, so don’t miss it.

I'm so happy that this story was so much better than the last book. The storyline is better and the action is involved and interesting. I even went back to re-read some of the passages so I would not miss what was happening. I'm looking forward to book 5.

My absolute favorite things about this series are:. Jokes, well thought out universe, the interaction between Skippy, Joe and the team. This is my third time through the series and I still chuckle.

Colonel Bishop and the amazing Skippy have to start a civil war. Unfortunately Skippy has a worm to solve which leaves the Merry Band of Pirates alone and In enemy territory with dwindling power aboard the ship.

I liked the story. It ends on a bit of a cliffhanger but the next book is already available so I'm going to go read it now.

I have enjoyed reading this book as much as the last. Our intrepid crew keeps doing the impossible, and through pretty much blind luck have managed to not only get things done, but have not blown themselves into oblivion. Give this book a read, I think you will enjoy it.

I enjoy reading series of books because I like to get to know the characters. The beer can is amazing. Sometimes the story is a little too predictable but still enjoyable

An excellent read. I was, and still am, hooked on the exploits of the Expeditionary Force books and the Black Ops (Book 4) in the series was no exception.Have to wait until November for the next sequel in this very agreeable Science Fiction Space romp series. For new readers you simply must start from Book 1 Columbus Day. Craig Alanson had me wanting more from the very first. Can't give to much way but if you think of an Expeditionary Force from Earth going out into the vast Galaxies of the Universe to recover kidnapped humans on Paradise, Commanded by Joe Bishop, getting too involved in other Aliens (non human form) who are technologically vastly superior, backing the wrong side, at the wrong time, trying to recover the situation in order to protect Mother Earth, and to top it all off being aided by an Artificial Intelligent that has a rather unique 'mother board form and is nicknamed 'Skippy' you may get the picture. Throw in some fine humour and you have a very good read from start to finish - and you will crave the next saga sequel one as I'm doing now. Only one negative and that is Craig Alanson does tend to input too much anecdotal material just when you want to get back to the main event.

I read on my lunch, this book has me really excited to get to lunch to read to find out what happens next. It expands the universe and some of the problems faced in other books with constant changes and tweaks as you might've come to expect from a band of pirates ;)If you've enjoyed the other books you'll like this one, its more expansion into the universe.

the adventures of Colonel Joe & Skippy and the rest of the merry crew of the Flying Dutchman continue in this, book 4. You have to read the series from Book 1 on chronological order (and don't miss book 3.5 Trouble in Paradise).I gobbled up all the books as soon as i tried Book 1 and realised how clever the author Craig Alanson is with his unique way of telling the story. It really immerses you in the action, the angst, the perplexing problems that meet the space crew as they stumble through the galaxies with Skippy as their Guide/Mentor.I guarantee you will NOT be able to put the book down!

very enjoyable series of books to read on there own and for more enjoyment there is of books from the ground team to read . I for one am loving them all.

While it the same recipe of AI not thinking up the plan and us monkeys making the unusual step to the solution this is still an exciting read and Skippy the AI is not around all the time!