ridel reviewed The Wrath of Vajazzle by Barry J. Hutchison (Space Team, #2)
In Small Doses, Space Team is very entertaining
4 stars
The Wrath of Vajazzle continues the adventures of the Space Team, with a focus on incompetence that borderlines on stupid, but instead manages to be both funny and yet deeper than it looks. I'm going to be honest, it's not my usual cup of tea because it takes itself so lightly, so I'm surprised I've made it this far with high opinions.
The sequel opens up the universe, introducing the Greyx, Vajazzle, and a bunch more locations. We bring back the original group of well-meaning idiots and put them through the meat grinder (in particular, for every annoying comment Cal drops, the universe forces him to experience pain in equal measure). Everything about the team's interactions from firefights to the silence of waiting is filled with comedic tension. It works, it really does.
Sadly, Vajazzle is one-dimensional, which is a shame because the previous novel had introduced antagonists …
The Wrath of Vajazzle continues the adventures of the Space Team, with a focus on incompetence that borderlines on stupid, but instead manages to be both funny and yet deeper than it looks. I'm going to be honest, it's not my usual cup of tea because it takes itself so lightly, so I'm surprised I've made it this far with high opinions.
The sequel opens up the universe, introducing the Greyx, Vajazzle, and a bunch more locations. We bring back the original group of well-meaning idiots and put them through the meat grinder (in particular, for every annoying comment Cal drops, the universe forces him to experience pain in equal measure). Everything about the team's interactions from firefights to the silence of waiting is filled with comedic tension. It works, it really does.
Sadly, Vajazzle is one-dimensional, which is a shame because the previous novel had introduced antagonists that were realistic rather than moustache-twirling villains. Fortunately, her intellect and brilliance makes up for a rather boring personality.
Personally, I think Space Team can only be read in small doses. But it delivers plenty of entertainment during that time. Recommended.
