Black Swan Planet

By: James Peters

Narrated by: David Swanson

Length: 8 hrs and 47 mins

Publisher's summary

Raka Varoule is a second-rate investigative reporter, traveling between the 27 worlds of the Galactic Empire exposing minor scandals. His big break comes when he weasels his way onto the emperor’s personal star-cruiser to report live, across the galaxy, how the emperor is celebrating his birthday.

When he exposes the biggest scandal in galactic history, he narrowly escapes with the help of a drug runner, a dominatrix, and a monkey wearing assless chaps. Together, they search for an escape from the empire, a barbarian world outside Imperial control. Then things get weird.

Black Swan Planet is a rare treat of a novel. A satirical science-fiction story told in a unique way, utilizing a variety of perspectives. This story will make both laugh out loud and keep you guessing what will happen next. James Peters has woven a story you’ll never forget, even if you lack mnemonic implants or prescription vibrating undergarments.

“As funny as Hitchhiker’s Guide, but with a plot.” (Agent M.)
“I laughed. I cried. I peed my pants.” (Homeless Guy #2)
“You peed your pants before even picking up the book.” (Homeless Guy #1)

©2017 James Peters (P)2018 James Peters

Absurd, but in a good way (mostly)

When I first started 'Black Swan Planet,' I was worried. The narration was odd, and it seemed like it was going to be eight hours of crude humor, drug abuse, and trying-too-hard-zaniness.

But then it surprised me.

Peters found his groove, and the story took some unexpected turns that were both interesting and deeper than the opening of the book had led me to assume. I found myself laughing out loud more than once, and stopping to go tell my wife about what had just happened (which made her laugh as well). David Swanson's narration smoothed out considerably as well, which made it all the more enjoyable.

Now, this isn't to say the book isn't without flaws. The plotting is uneven and occasionally seems to only be concerned with setting up funny/outrageous scenes (not all of which pay off), and the dialogue quality is a mixed bag. Swanson's attempts at doing voices are also a bit hit and miss (although part of this could be that fake Jamaican accents are hard to take seriously at the best of times).

This isn't the greatest book, but it is entertaining, funny, and wildly unpredictable. Despite my initial reservations, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

I received this a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

Unusual but highly entertaining

Quite colorful and It s not for evrey one but II Loved the humor, the clever plot and did not see it coming how earth got tangled in the story. great narration !!!!

Backwater planets and space travelling monkeys

When Raka Varoule gatecrashes a party held by the Emperor, broadcasting something he shouldn't, he has to go into hiding on a backwater planet. That planet is 1960's era Earth. But something is wrong, as the technology on this planet it advancing quicker than it should - someone is illegally bringing alien tech to the planet, and Raka wants to know why. Also, unbeknownst to Raka, the Empire is trying to pull itself because of his actions. He has set in motion something that will have a huge impact for Earth, the empire, and himself.

Black Swan Planet is a fun, if not slightly juvenile in humor, romp across the galaxy. It's engaging and entertaining throughout, keeping up a high pace, and providing some fun satire.

Narration by David Swanson is really good. He provides a large number of character voices, filled with emotion and excitement. He brings the book and the characters to life. He is well paced, clear and enjoyable to listen to.

I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.

Satirical romp through space and time.

The first thing that grabbed my attention was the cover art: a blunt-smoking chimp wearing an astronaut's helmet who appeared to mock me with a sly, poo-slinging grin. Needless to say I was intrigued. It turns out to be a fantastically funny romp through space and time -- a satire full of adventure that entertained me from start to finish. Well developed characters have plenty of attitude and some surprising secrets! David Swanson lends this story a unique voice with his narration. Definitely glad I picked this one up and recommend it to anyone looking for a jolly good time!

(I requested this free review copy audiobook and voluntarily posted this unbiased review.)

Excellent narrator...odd eccentric crazy story

Swanson does an excellent job narrating this crazy adrenaline laced story. He captures the essence of dozens of characters and is amazing with voices.

The story is a wild one. From drug binges to busty space pirates it is always evolving. I enjoyed it, but you gotta have a weird sense of humor. I recommend this book if you want an intense humor filled action book.

I was able to receive this book for free and am gladly leaving this review willingly.

Fantastic, hilarious romp through the galaxey.

This book is so well written, I'll have to listen to it at least one more time to "get" all of it. It reminds me of the movie "Neigbors" with John Belushi. I will defiantly be looking for more books by James Peters. I believe he is a literary genius. I whole heartily recommend this book. I received the audible version (damn glad I got the audible), and now for the obligatory: This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.

Excellent Space Opera!!

It's a cross between Hunter Thompson and Craig Alanson. A hilarious trip for all monkey lovin space adventurers...its absurd, awesome and more from this author and reader please!!

Good book, horrible Jamaican accent.

Most of the other reviews cover the book, but I had to say something about the narrator's attempt at a Jamaican accent. It sounds vaguely Scottish and only recognisable when he says "mon" instead of "man". It really took me out of the story and made it difficult to concentrate on what was going on in the story.

Wierd, but OK in the End

I don't always understand satire and this is a satirical science fiction story. Some satire is so forced that you loose any thread of relatability. I was afraid that Black Swan Planet would fall into this category. It did not. Midway through the book I was rooting for the monkey. Who would have guessed? I don't think Black Swan Planet is for everyone, but if you like a little absurdity in fiction you might like this.
David Swanson did a good job narrating.
I was given a free copy of this book for an unbiased review.

Great book

I definitely suggest this book if you enjoy satire and scifi. The characters that the author created are hilarious, and the author does a great job of putting them in interesting predicaments. Overall, I would suggest this book if you want to read something laid back and funny.