Using the Goodreads star ratings as accurately as possible because this story was okay. Separating the story from Croaker/team did detract from this tale. The majority of the POV's lacked a strong voice but anything involving Old Man Fish was entertaining and always a bit unpredictable.

Being a ".5" in the story means this could be skipped but learning what happened to the Silver Spike after the events in book #3 is beneficial and would be useful if you want to continue with the Black Company story.