Let me start by saying that I am an inveterate Joshua Dalzelle fan. He has a wonderful way of introducing me to characters whom I like, can often identify with, and who make me feel like I am maybe a little better person after getting to know them. THE BLACKFLEET TRILOGY, THE EXPANSION WARS TRILOGY, the entire OMEGA FORCE SERIES — they are all full of characters you can develop a real kinship with.
I did NOT find this to be the case with BLUESHIFT. While some may feel the examination of group dynamics when put in the unique circumstances found in BLUESHIFT to be a worthwhile endeavor, I did not. The brutal and dark side of human behavior which kept emerging as the story progressed was not how I like devote my mental real estate. Realistic, one might ask? Very possibly. Reality notwithstanding, this was one novel I could have done without.
Paul Heitsch gives his usual stellar interpretation of the characters. He is a marvel, and a joy to listen to.