Having gotten to the 5th book in the series, it's safe to say I like these books. Ishmael's story carries me along, like a gentle canoe ride.

The thing that I found difficult about this particular book is the time lapse. After such a stellar start to his career, it's hard to think about Ishmael basically coasting along for 10 years. He got all of the ratings it normally takes people several years to achieve in one year -- but it took him 10 to go from 3rd mate to 1st? Also, he was writing programs to improve all kinds of things before he ever went to the academy, but for 10 years he pretty much just did his job? I don't know...it just seemed like a big change for his character.

Other than that? I was happy to climb back in the boat and ride along.