Quarter Share by Nathan Lowell
Podiobooks.com is pleased to present Nathan Lowell’s “Quarter Share,” a new science fiction novel:
When Ishmael Wang is orphaned by a flitter crash, he must make some hard decisions about how to survive in a Companay-owned universe. With limited time and fewer options, he lands a job as the newest hand on the Solar Clipper Lois McKendrick and learns there’s more to life than making coffee.
February 24th, 2007 at 5:50 am
I have just finished Episode 5 and am thoroughly enjoying this story. Nathan is a wonderful writer and a terrific narrator. I especially love the whole coffee making thing, even MY coffee has improved! The little details about life on the ship and job duties is so entertaining (I liked the rubber glove tip). I’m impressed by the smoothness of Nathan writing and how the story moves along at a relaxed pace, yet doesn’t drag. And the characters are great. Ishmael is a totally likeable character and I want to see how he progresses and his friend, Pip, really is like a wayward but lovable younger brother. Cookie is wise and witty. I like them all.
I have one episode remaining from my feed and then…. I’ll have to wait for the next! Sweet frustration at Podiobooks.com. Is this Nathan’s first novel? I’m looking forward to the rest of this story and more to come.
February 24th, 2007 at 9:39 am
Thanks, Joan.
There are two new episodes in the queue for this week and I’ll put three up for next.
In all there are 17 episodes and the sequal — Half Share — is in audio production as I type this.
I appreciate the feedback!
February 28th, 2007 at 6:05 am
A boring two hour road trip was ahead of me so I decided to take the first 8 episodes of Quarter Share with me. Leaving my drive I inserted disk one into my cd player and was looking for places to drive to two hours later so that I could hear more.
I was transported to the ship and walked invisible beside Ishmael and Pip lulled and lead by the soothing voice that Nathan has. The story line is different and unique and the sheer simplicity of it makes it all seem so real and believable that you know that you truly are right there with the characters , in that time and space.
Like all good books I had a hard time putting it down and eagerly am waiting for more. Could Ya hurry up?
February 28th, 2007 at 7:05 am
WOW. I like how the events flow smoothly. It gives a nice feel to the story.
Also, the details are FANTASTIC! You have so many characters and you describe them all, very,very well.
February 28th, 2007 at 10:28 am
Very realistic for SF. Characters are good. Does seem to feel more like a text book presented as fiction.
February 28th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
I love SF. Ejoying the way the characters are not heros just average Joes. Kind of brings back to my younger days, just after Bootcamp, and being stationed on a High Enduance Cutter and my first duties of being a mess bitch. Great Job Nate! and please hurry with the rest of it. I need something like this to listen to while doing my house work.
February 28th, 2007 at 3:46 pm
Thanks, Laurie, EJ, and Dusty.
Thank you, too, Barry! That’s interesting feedback. What do you think I’m teaching?
March 7th, 2007 at 9:35 am
The next three episodes are in the queue. They’ll be loaded up on the next cycle.
Thanks to everybody who’s left me comments here and on the website at http://durandus.com/golden
March 10th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
Help me! I’m loving Quarter Share, and I’ve run out of episodes.
I listened to the first episode a week or two ago, then I pulled a back muscle this Friday and went through the other 10 in the space of a day. Now I’m dying to give the completed book (in print or in audio) to my Father, and listen to it myself!
Durandus.com seems to be down, and a quick search of Amazon.com didn’t turn up a print version.
So help me Nate! Lock yourself away in your closet and record! Oh, and tell me where I can get it in print (Or ebook!)
A new convert to the fun and excitement of Interstellar trading,
LG
March 10th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
durandus.com has had some issues with the hosting service but it seems to be up now.
the next three episodes will be loaded by tomorrow. the last three are in the queue for next weekend.
at the moment it’s not available in print (e- or otherwise). it LIKE to get it published in paper, but so far I’m still too busy writing new stuff and getting the sequel, Half Share, recorded to go back and deal with cleaning up the manuscript.
But THANK YOU!! You’re convincing me I need to get that file in order and get it out there.
NL
March 12th, 2007 at 7:10 pm
Mr. Lowell,
Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful prose and narration with us. I am a regular listener to Escape Pod, which features SF & F short stories. The editor, Steve Eley, often laments the dearth of new SF that is optimistic and fun to read (or hear). Quarter Share is an excellent antidote to the current dystopian tone in the genre. Please keep writing and keep podcasting! Fellow readers, please donate to Mr. Lowell’s efforts, so that we may enjoy Ishmael’s adventures through Half Share, Full Share, and perhaps one day, Captain’s Share!
Regards,
JS
PS As the owner of two black cats, lucky fellows both, I find your choice of theme music impeccable.
March 13th, 2007 at 12:14 pm
Thanks, JS.
I’m also an Escape Pod fan! I have a couple of short stories … Maybe I’ll submit one to Steve and see what happens
March 15th, 2007 at 6:08 am
The final episodes are in the queue for the next normal update cycle.
Thanks to everybody for taking the time to listen. In a couple of weeks, I’ll submit the sequel and I hope you’ll all join me for the further adventures of Pip, Bev, Ish and the rest of the gang on the Lois McKendrick in Half Share.
If you liked the book, please take a moment to visit the title page http://www.podiobooks.com/podiobooks/book.php?ID=130 and rate it. Fives are nice, but honesty is good.
Thanks again.
March 16th, 2007 at 9:55 am
I must say thank you.
I love the way you make me feel like I am right there with Ishmael
and his ride on the Solar Clipper Lois McKendrick as he grows up.
March 16th, 2007 at 3:58 pm
Thanks, Matthew!
It was a blast to write and read and I’m really pleased that so many people seem to be enjoying it.
March 22nd, 2007 at 5:38 am
Very much in the same vein as the great sailing novels, such as Hornblower, Treasure Island, the Dewey Lambdin series, or the Jack Aubrey novels.
I don’t know is the author has any sea experience, but it captured the feel of the shipboard routine that was familliar to me while I was in the navy.
This novel is really well done and quite addictive.
Please hurry with more
Thanks,
Jefferson
March 22nd, 2007 at 6:46 am
Thanks, JS.
I did serve aboard a USCG cutter on hurricane patrols in the North Atlantic back in the 70’s and a lot of what went into the book from that aspect came from my memories of what it was like to be bobbing in a steel can in the middle of the ocean for weeks at a time.
I’m glad you like it and watch for the sequel around the first of April.
NL
March 22nd, 2007 at 7:05 pm
i’ve listened to the entire quarter share. Now I need to hear the next , Half Share . Not fair to leave us hanging.WILL YA HURRY UP!!:)
March 23rd, 2007 at 8:29 pm
it’s coming
i ran into a technical problem with the new recording hardware and i need to redo the first 2 1/2 hrs of audio. Should be ready to post by the first of April tho and by then, Podiobooks’ server issues should be resolved.
March 26th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
What a wonderfully fun novel. Can’t wait for the sequel.
March 27th, 2007 at 7:06 am
Thanks, Chris.
It’s coming. I’m just waiting to give the Podiobooks folks a chance to get the site stable at this point.
Probably not this coming Sunday, but …
March 27th, 2007 at 3:40 pm
I loved the book! You’ve already answered my question about the sequel, so I’ll jump ahead. Will there be a third book, Full Share? And if so, how much of it is written? *grin*
April 6th, 2007 at 2:39 pm
Ok I finished Quarter Share a little bit ago, and for the last week I have been checking back on a Bi daily basis hoping that Half Share will have been released
your writing is wonderfully imersive, and while I have listened to dozens of podiobooks this is acually the first comment I have ever left for somone. well done.
April 9th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Great book! I really enjoyed it! Can’t wait to hear the next installment.
April 21st, 2007 at 4:33 pm
What a fantastic story! Well written, well read and engaging. I couldn’t stop listening. MORE PLEASE!
My only criticism is that everytime Cookie said “Young Ishmael”, I would hear it as “Youngish Male”. Confused the heck out of me for the first few episodes.
Can’t wait to hear everything you’ve ever written or are planning to write!
April 25th, 2007 at 6:52 am
It’s coming! It’s coming!!
Half Share has just been waiting for the dust to settle in the new digs. I’m posting the first chapters TODAY but y’all have to wait for the next update cycle (Sunday). Don’t forget you can visit the Traders Diary at http://durandus.org/golden and sign up for the email notifications!
Might even be something special for list subscribers
April 26th, 2007 at 2:33 am
SUNDAY! say it aint so….
Now you have got me listening to Quarter Share for the second time while I wait
April 29th, 2007 at 7:09 am
Here I am - it’s Sunday! I am eagerly awaiting Half Share. I even got up early to look for it but nothing yet.
I will keep checking back. it’s been a long time since I waited with such anticipation for a story! Let’s go!
April 29th, 2007 at 11:10 am
Yes… *when* on Sunday does the update cycle take place? *pitiful look*
April 29th, 2007 at 2:20 pm
The book website mentions the first Sunday in May - so next week I guess.
PS. Sign up for the email update on the book website and you’ll get a surprise.
May 3rd, 2007 at 6:28 am
I loved this book. It’s a nice refreshing change from all the novels of suspense and surprize. It’s like hanging out with your friends for a day.
May 8th, 2007 at 6:37 am
Most of you should have found the new book by now.
And I’m sorry for the delays. PodioBooks was caught with an embarassment of riches with all the publicity and we all got caught in the crossfire.
Thank you to ALL of you and I hope you keep listening! There’s more in store for Ishmael and the crew.
May 8th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
Excellent work on Quarter Share. I am looking forward to listening to the rest of the series and what happens to Ish.
May 14th, 2007 at 10:45 pm
Okay, I’m one of those people who can’t wait to actually listen to this book before commenting. Does that make me a dweeb? A fanboy? Ugh. But so be it!
I listened to the first chapter tonight at work. I had a few technical problems in the beginning, but it wasn’t long before I was overlooking those and engaged in the story. I don’t know where this thing is going (the previous comments are very evocative, though…coffee?) but I like the set up. For some reason, it put me in mind of those early Heinlein novels that I read when I was twelve. That particular magic can’t be replicated with Heinlein any more…he’s too elitist, too windy, too damned opinionated (and too sure that we care what he thinks, whether he’s put those words in the mouth of Lazarus Long, Jubal Harshaw, or whatever character of the day that acts as a stand-in for the old grandmaster) but was recreated here in ways I haven’t experienced in a long, long time. I’m excited to listen to the rest, and happy that, unlike some of the folks who have written, I can be gluttonous and download the whole bit at once. One episode wasn’t enough to bring me to satiety!
Perhaps I’ll write more when I’ve listened to more. For now, though, thank you for sharing your story with us. I’m excited.
May 16th, 2007 at 6:21 am
Jeff said:
These novels are, in many ways, an homage to those Heinlein, Alan E Nourse stories. I love the new sci-fi, but I wanted to write a book where the people matter more than the photon flux while STILL having an opportunity to think and explore what *might* be and how it might look.
The other main theme is that I wanted a hero who wasn’t rich, famous, or the captain of the ship. There’s heroism in the mundane, in the carrying on in the face of the overwhelming grinding of day-to-day and Ishmael is my Everyman.
Keep commenting! I’m still reading every one!
May 17th, 2007 at 4:13 pm
I haven’t enjoyed a book this much ina long time. I like the fact that killing and violence are not the main theme. I also like that Ishmael isn’t a loser. I liked everything about this story! Even the music between chapters.
Wynne
May 17th, 2007 at 11:04 pm
Okay, I finished the book tonight. I really liked it. I’m excited to get to Half Share (and ooh, the “explicit” warning makes me think of Beverly in her boxers and new belt! What befalls our young Ish, eh?). Oh, and I think your first sentences are right up there with the best classics of any age.
I like that this book doesn’t become some heavy-handed drama. There are no great wars here, no “evil” to overcome, no overwrought space battles. What a relief! I remember when I was a kid, and loved Star Trek. I loved everything about it. But just once I wanted them to have a single episode where they just showed the everyday life aboard a starship. But we never got that for more than a couple of minutes before some melodramatic thing happened. Things are going smoothly in their everyday fashion, but then the shit hits the fan. This book does just that thing that I always wanted to see/read (and now hear): it charts the everyday lives of these people. Really, there is plenty of drama in our real lives that we don’t need Darth Vader or Dick Cheney darkly haunting our daily existence, and this book delivers that. I just enjoyed being among these characters. I like the nonchalant cohabitation of the sexes without everyone acting either puritanical or lurid and peepingtomish; Hey! Maybe we’ll evolve yet! I like the notion that being on a ship isn’t really different than being on a planet: it has the potential to be pretty boring; the only antidote to that is to get involved and work hard and bring what one can to the betterment of the whole.
My most emotional moment: when Pip passes his test. I’m a former teacher, and I could feel in a visceral way that success. There is something very satisfying in believing in a future where people will be given a chance to be seen as capable even if they can’t fill out a test bubble sheet to prove it.
I had a few quibbles: I hope that our future isn’t one of such blatant capitalism (though that’s not really a quibble; I can’t hardly read about the golden age of trader ships and then complain about the fact that they’re trading…this I guess is more a matter of philosophical taste). I don’t know that trading works so massively successfully as it did for these people: if it works that well, everyone would do it, in which case it would no longer work so well. I suspect that using human waste to grow food wouldn’t be seen as a new idea in space flight, but would at the time of our novel be an old, old technology created by sheer necessity. I personally would have liked a bit of a look outside the ship: for me there is still a romantic sort of grandeur to the idea of navigating the stars (though maybe not for these characters who do it every day…would some reader of the novel of my life be much interested in hearing about my drive to work? Hmmm….) But such quibbles are a matter for discussing over a beer, not a basis for critiquing a novel.
I’m sold. Very nicely done. I’m eager for more.
May 22nd, 2007 at 5:40 pm
Hi, Nate! I’ve listened to both “Quarter Share” and “Half Share” now and I enjoyed them both very much! Thanks!
The day-to-day on the ship is fascinating.
The music surprised me until I remembered that a starship is still a ship, and now it makes me smile. The episodes are long enough to be very satisfying. (At least for a couple of hours while I think it over.)
I like the first person narrative. I find myself looking forward to the reactions of the other characters to each happening (I endure strong feelings of hurry up and tell!). Ish is enjoying himself so tremendously that it’s fun to look over his shoulder - and I’m also grateful for the privacy you give him from time to time!
I hope you have more to tell us about Lois, and why it is that Ish refers to her as a person. There’s way more I want to know about Sarah. (I almost expect to see a crochet tutorial on the website.) The trips to the fleas are great. And you’ve barely begun exploring the bond between Ish and Bev and Diane and Bril.
I hope you won’t rush to the end of the story - there’s a lot to be told between the end of “Half Share” and the beginning of “Full Share!” Probably a book for each level Ish rises, and I want to hear all about it.
May 23rd, 2007 at 8:20 am
Jeff White said:
“I think your first sentences are right up there with the best classics of any age.”
Actually my first sentences are direct rips from other works — which I’m sure you know. “Call me Ishmael” of course from Moby Dick. “It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.” from Tale of Two Cities. And Final Share begins with “Every child, except one, grows up.” from Peter Pan. It started as a kind of joke but it really has become a kind of unifying theme for each one as it sets the tone for the rest of the book in ways I wasn’t even aware of myself until the book was done.
Gail said:
“I hope you have more to tell us about Lois, and why it is that Ish refers to her as a person.”
We actually see Lois manifest in Full Share a little more as Sarah becomes the voice of the ship. The notion here (and I’m not sure how much I really should explain so — this maybe a SPOILER ALERT) —
The idea is that the ship has a guiding spirit. Every ship I’ve been on has had one. The idea of the Pooka (ya like Harvey the White Rabbit) as manifestation of that spirit appealed to me. I’ve purposely built in the same kind of ambiguity regarding whether or not that Pooka is “real.” Is she or isn’t she?
June 5th, 2007 at 7:22 pm
Right after I left a post here I went exploring and found that Full Share is already written.
Never mind my old notions, bring it on!
The longer I look at your comments, Nate, the more I wonder about this one: “The idea is that the ship has a guiding spirit. Every ship I’ve been on has had one.” Sounds like several good stories.
June 6th, 2007 at 7:54 am
The major strength of this story is the characters. A story like this reminds me that you don’t need an action packed story to make it good, you need strong, well thought out and written characters to do that. I’ll be honest, I didn’t find the plot all that exciting but the characters are so well written I want to see what’s going to happen next. Looking forward to reading Half Share now!
June 16th, 2007 at 7:22 pm
I am enjoying this very, very much. I’m currently on chapter 11.
I can’t help but think that this book was influenced, at least a little bit, by the “Traveler” roleplaying game.
June 19th, 2007 at 3:27 pm
Yes, certainly. Both the online and the old book and paper version.
June 22nd, 2007 at 6:57 am
I really like this book. The audio, the narration, the story, all very good. I just have one complaint/concern/criticism, whatever you want to call it. NOTHING EVER HAPPENS? I’m on section 15 of 17, and it all reads like one big introduction. There’s no conflict, no bad guys, nothing to resolve. “Oh, the hero starts a business with his friend. No one really gets in their way, everyone is very supportive. They make lots of money. That’s nice, I suppose.” That’s it? I’m hoping very much that in the last two sections something drastic is going to happen that makes me want to jump right into Half Share. Otherwise I’m not sure I can take another entire book of Ish and Pip discussing microeconomics over omelettes.
June 24th, 2007 at 12:26 pm
When will the torture end. No, really when will full share come out?
June 25th, 2007 at 3:32 pm
Sorry Duane.
No bad guys. No evil aliens. Nothing drastic. Just the grinding heroism of day to day life. Only a guy and the universe. You might wanna skip Half Share. Only thing different is he gets laid. Nothing to see here.
James:
Full Share is in the PB hands as I type this. I’m hoping any day, but I can’t predict any more because they’ve changed procedures.
June 26th, 2007 at 1:58 am
I like this book. Why, you ask, hmm! Maybe its the gratuitous sex, violence and explicit language, or the special audio effects and rockin’ background music. No, it doesn’t have ANY of those, and like Duane said nothing much happens.
This is just a simple story of a descent guy, who finds a place among friends who care about and appreciate him, doing something he enjoys doing, and getting paid to do it. Damn, thats what I want!
I’m not a fan of audiobooks, call me old-fashioned but I like to sit in my chair with my dead-tree editions and read them. As I read I hear the voices of the characters, the sounds and sights as the author describes them. Every reader experiences a book differently, that, I think, is what I like about this book and Nathan’s reading. Unlike other audiobooks I’ve listened to, Nathan just reads the book and leaves it to the listener to imagine the events. When the klaxon goes off, I don’t need a loud klaxon effect going off in my ear, I can imagine it. Almost like reading it myself (only slower). Good work Nathan.
I have ‘Half Share’ and I just subscribed to ‘Full Share’. So, for a while I’ll imagine I’m Ishmael, travelling the spaceways, making coffee, omlettes and hanging out with good friends.
June 26th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
Don’t go into this expecting that the “Pistol Rule” will be followed… it won’t. There’s no foreshadowing, there’s no grand climax, and the ending will be something of a letdown if you’re hooked on traditional novel structure.
If you look at Quarter Share, Half Share, and Full Share as a very long story when taken as a whole, then maybe not… from the description it looks like Full Share will have some drama. I haven’t read it, I’m just looking at the blurbs.
All that being said, the author is a fine reader, his audio quality is good, and the characters are well developed. This is a teddy bear of a story… soft, cuddly, warm and comforting, but it doesn’t do much.
I would recommend this book to someone who’s feeling depressed.
July 2nd, 2007 at 1:09 pm
I just stumbled across this audio book here at Podiobooks. I must say that I think this is the sci-fi book I have been looking to read for a long while. I enjoy books and games where the typical “hack’n’slash” story line isn’t the main plot point or driving force. I’m only in Ep. 13 of “Quarter Share” so I don’t know if that happens further down the road or not.
Anyway, if this was an online MUD or other such game I don’t think I would be happier.
Thanks, Nathan, for this great book.
Will
July 14th, 2007 at 12:04 am
Quarter and Half Shares are a couple of great books. They remind me of “Have Spacesuit, Will Travel”, although I believe Heinlein’s bias was conservative. I really liked the “How-To” aspects of the books - how to get along, how to behave, how to improve yourself, how to take iniative, how to do right, by yourself and others, etc. Good stuff.
July 17th, 2007 at 11:30 am
Quarter Share has been nominated for a 2007 Parsec Award. Go to the website an leave me a comment on which version of the sample I should submit!
http://durandus.org/golden
Thanks!
August 2nd, 2007 at 2:56 pm
There are a number of really good podiobooks and other podcast stories that I’ve listened to. But it is extremely rare for me to listen to any of them more than once. I’ve listened to Quarter Share at least five times! There is a natural quality to the way that Nathan Lowell reads the story so it never seems like the story is being read, but like Ishmael is actually telling the story to you.
My husband has no interest in science fiction and rarely listens to podcasts but he truly enjoyed a story that reflected his time spent in the Navy.
August 13th, 2007 at 5:18 am
Well, Quarter Share didn’t make the cut in the Parsec Awards, but congrats to the great Podiobooks productions that did!
There’s always next year.
August 17th, 2007 at 8:49 am
Just finished Quarter Share and THOROUGHLY enjoyed it! I enjoy a wide variety of SciFi and first found podiobooks like Singularity, Infection, Seventh Son and Descent. After a little searching for what else was available, I found, among others, the ‘Share’ series. I’m listening to ‘Half Share’ as I write. Sounding like another winner!
Questions:
If I remember correctly, Ishmael describes himself as 1.5 Meters and 80 Kg. Is he really 5′9″ and 176 pounds? Brill is a towering 2 Meters . . . O.K. I’ll buy that at 6.5′. [:)] I know I’m slender at 6′4″ and 180lbs . . . It’s just that Ish seems short and heavy!
Between Quarter and Half share, there seems to be some missing content. Ish and Pip are called in front of the officers and we hear, after the fact, about Gregor getting into a fight in the flea market and his leaving the ship for a tanker. We later hear about purchases (leather thong) by Ish and Pip and other events at the flea market. I went back and made sure that I had listened to the entirety of Chapter 17 of ‘Quarter Share’, had not missed downloading a chapter and had actually started ‘Half Share’ in the right place. What happened to setting up the new and improved COOP, purchases/sales and the fight? Writing technique to introduce the events without boring us with the details? I WANT THE DETAILS! [:0]
Ahhhh, we did just get a partial explanation in Ish talking about Brill . . . ‘in a world where people rarely reach 2 meters’ . . .
Great books Nate! I’m hoping I can get my 14 year old son hooked on them. He’s enjoyed Tolkein, Harry Potter, Dragonlance Chronicles and some others. This may be right up his alley.
Thank you for your excellence in writing.
John
August 18th, 2007 at 6:57 am
Thanks, John!
Actually, I think as many of the details as Ishmael knows are there. One of the problems with first person POV (and the reason few writers use it, I think) is that you can only tell the story that the main character sees. That means, if he wasn’t at the fight, you can’t see it.
I *do* think the story has enough of the details, and some people have noted that I tend to repeat things a lot. Pay attention to those repeats because quite often it’s the same lil story, but with different details. The goal is to have you say, “Oh *that*s what happened!” sometime later in the book.
And yes, he is short and dense.
August 18th, 2007 at 4:15 pm
Hi Nate,
I have to admit to some preconditioning of ‘way future’ humans and what they are going to look like. Authors tend to describe people who live in space as taller and in weightless conditions very tall, i.e. Larry Niven’s ‘Integral Tree’ and ‘Smoke Ring’ (another excellent story). When I first heard Ishmael’s description of himself, I was sure I was mistaken. Had to get my calculator out to see how that worked out.
I _AM_ catching those “Oh *that*s what happened!” things as I read on. Guess the first ‘big’ one (that trading scene for me anyway) took me by surprise.
I usually just listen to podiobooks on my drive to and from work. Ended up listening to Half Share a good deal of the day at work yesterday and am now up to episode 13. The great writing continues . . . however, I’m trying to decide if my son should listen beyond 1/4 Share!
Thanks again!
John
August 21st, 2007 at 3:20 pm
That’s a concern for every parent, John. In my case, I had to decide if I wanted my 12 yr old daughter to hear Half Share.
The answer had to be, “Only if she wants to.”
I’d rather she read something *I* wrote than something somebody else wrote. And I wrote it so that most of it would go over her head
September 12th, 2007 at 6:57 am
I love the whole series (so far.) Myself and both my daughters are slightly –ok, more than slightly;) in love with Ish! I am amazed a MAN can create a character who is so sensitive and warm and romantic without being wimpy!
I love how Ish is so humble, yet so amazing! Men… this is what a woman wants!
And for those who want action… why? This is life, described in entertaining detail. It is hilarious, fun, heart-warming, and interesting!
Thanks for the work you do, Nate.
September 15th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
*blush*
September 17th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
I cannot believe how much I have been enjoying Quarter Share.
Imagine, a science fiction story set on a spaceship with no aliens, no space battle, not much high drama and one that explores what could be considered rather mundane day-to-day activities. And yet, the story is absolutely gripping.
I picked it up on podiobooks.com and as I write this, I’ve just found out there is only one episode left. I’ve been listening to an episode a day and champing at the bit for the next. I don’t know what I will do when the story runs out. I’m glad to see that other books are in production.
I’m really not sure if it’s the characters, the story or the narration I love the best, but I think this production is fantastic.
Please keep up the fantastic work.
Just found the website, too. That’ll keep me busy!
Looks like I am not the first to make these observations. I guess Nate struck a chord.
-John
September 21st, 2007 at 4:47 am
I just had to leave a comment as well.. This book is great, highly recommended
September 28th, 2007 at 3:51 am
Hey, just wanted to say, loved the book, and very much looking forward to the sequels (which I’m downloading as I type this)… keep up the great work.
September 30th, 2007 at 5:43 pm
Hats off to Nathan for such a wonderful book.
Although I have only made it to Episode 9, I must agree with John (above). This is a testament to the value of character development. It is so refreshing to have a character that I can actually identify with. There need be no violence, unimaginable suffering or over-arching galactic themes of good versus evil when the characters themselves are this compelling.
I am amazed at how Nathan has managed to turn the on-the-surface-bland Ishmael into a truly compelling lead character.
Keep up the great work!
-jason
October 1st, 2007 at 8:56 am
Thanks Nathan for such a wonderful story! I just finished Quarter Share and looking forward to Half Share and Full Share. I find myself enjoying 3 or more episodes an evening.
Thanks for all your hard work!
October 16th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Amazing story. I just finished it after two marathon sessions. The first had to end after I had exhausted myself. The first episode I wasn’t sure about, but partway through the second I was hooked. I’ll probably finish the next two this week - can’t wait for you to continue the series.
October 17th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
I’m glad you liked them
October 30th, 2007 at 8:01 pm
“That is a good book which is opened with expectation, and closed with delight and profit.” -Amos Bronson Alcott, teacher and author (1799-1888)
Nate,
I finished listening Quarter Share today. It is a wonderful first podiobook. I hope it is the first of many for you. The above quote came my way today and nicely sums up your writing. Thank you! I’m onto more adventures with Ishmel and Pip.
Alice b.
November 1st, 2007 at 5:11 am
Thanks Alice! It’s National Novel Writing Month so .. who knows ..
November 18th, 2007 at 12:25 am
Nate. I love this book. Your sense of humor, and characters make this such a joy to listen to. While not Sitting on the edge of my seat, waiting for a bomb to go off, or a villain to die, I’m SMILING!! Sort of giggling in a large manly way, as I scoot down the road. Such a smooth fun story to listen to, and the miles have gone smoothly while _I_ move my freight down the road.
Dude, you rock. I love this story. I really enjoy this. Damn, do I enjoy your writing style on this book. - I hope to see it published soon, and if not, I’ll have to make use of the Tip jar. -
I am, Downloading the next two books now!
November 18th, 2007 at 11:34 am
Glad I can lighten your load, Randy.
Keep an eye on Podiobooks and you might get a new book to listen to before year’s end.
Hm. Can I write and record FOUR novels in a year?
My deadline is Jan 12, 2008. Stay tuned!!
November 19th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
This book is FANTABULOUS!!! I am enjoying this immensely. The quality of the writing and the turns of phrases have me sometimes in stitches and sometimes feeling myself in the characters shoes. … and the quality of the “tones” of Ishmael’s voice … his initial proudness of tone with the coffee and then you can hear as the story progresses, his just slightly exasperated tone creeping in as he continues to be known for his coffee. …. and I’m only on Episode 5! I can already tell that you, Nathan Lowell, are going to be one of my favourite authors.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Personally, moi? I’m fond of hearing Ishmael hear some of the phrases heard round the house every day… “Pip and I made a first pass through the dirty kitchen…” HAHAHA!!
And every time he turns around someone wants more coffee, huh? *guilty*
It’s so fun to listen to this after 30 years of watching little pots of the story percolate, so to speak. Shelves of books, games of Trader, hours of finding one’s way through someone else’s invented world - they’ve all matured beautifully.
Nice work, Dr. Lowell
November 28th, 2007 at 5:58 am
Ok, my secret’s out. That last comment was from my loving spouse who’s FINALLY getting around to listening to the books.
Hope I didn’t write anything *else* incriminating
December 11th, 2007 at 4:55 pm
This is possibly one of the best audiobooks/podcasts i have listened to so far, and I have listened to quite a few now. This is so well put together. I was more into action and thrillers until I listened to this. Again this is awesome. You must listent to this.
December 11th, 2007 at 7:38 pm
Aw. Thanks, Abe. Glad you like it!
There’s more ahead with Half Share and Full Share already completed and South Coast in production as I type this.
December 19th, 2007 at 7:21 am
Top marks Mr Lowell!
An excellent story, beautifully written, very well read, and not relying on bells or whistles - just quality.
One of the most enjoyable podiobooks so far. I’m already on my way to sign up to Half Share to see what they get up to next!
December 26th, 2007 at 6:05 am
A good story and well told. I look forward to reading the next bits when they happen… it’s fascinating to listen to a story where the conflicts are few and relatively harmless, and yet the story still grips me. I always look forward to this one!
December 26th, 2007 at 1:46 pm
Thanks, Martyn and Bruce!
If you like the Trader’s Tales, I think you’ll like Shaman’s Tales even more. It’s the same universe … just a different perspective.
January 19th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Wonderful story ! It took me a couple of episodes to get hooked, but now I’m a junkie. I had to double (if not more) my evening walk to get enough listening done. I cant stop. My roommate think I’m crazy, wandering around the apartment with my headphones on all the time. I think my social life is dead for a couple of days, until I finish “full share”. After that, I’ll go straight the union hall to enlist on the first ship that make port in my area …
Nathan, you put a smile on my face !
I’m not even gonna try to tell how good the writing is. I’ll just go for the reading : very clear which is a good think as English isnt my first language. Not overdoing the emotion, just letting the text take its due. And sometime I feel like the reader is enjoying reading as much as I am enjoying listening …
I’m really broke for the moment, but you’ll have my usual donation as soon as I am in the black again !
January 20th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Merci, Guillaume.
Glad you’ve enjoyed them. I *did* have fun doing these and look forward to doing more in the future.
January 30th, 2008 at 11:09 am
I’m jumping on the Nathan Lowell bandwagon. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Quarter Share. While all of the characters may not be totally believable (c’mon, a 7+ foot woman?), they were completely engaging. The story has plenty of detail, but doesn’t drag. The pace isn’t quick, but it is steady. The narration by Mr. Lowell merely adds to the story. Thanks for a delightful story!
February 3rd, 2008 at 6:45 pm
What’s wrong with a 7′ tall woman? I know a 6′ 8″ woman myself!
Thanks, Puddy. I’m always tickled to learn that people like this.
February 12th, 2008 at 9:26 am
Great book. I’m in the middle of Quarter Share and plan to work my way through the other two books as soon as I can!
February 14th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
Nate,
I am not a fan of sci-fi at all. But I am loving Ubuntu Linux, and heard your interview on Linux Reality podcast. When I heard what you were doing with podiobooks I lit up. Not only was I trying to figure out what kind of podcast I could do myself, but a year ago I wrote an outline for a movie…but decided to write it into a book instead. And now it all comes together thanks to you. I hope to follow in your footsteps.
Now…back to hating sci-fi. I decided to listen to the first couple episodes of your book just to see if I could pick up some pointers. That’s all it took to get me hooked. I found myself 10 minutes late for work and still sitting in the parking lot not able to stop listening to it. I served 10 years in the Army, and there was something very familiar about the way that Ish’s mind worked. Thanks Nate, for opening up a whole new world to me.
February 15th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
Thank YOU, Jeremy. Lots of people have said “I hate sci-fi, but I loved THESE books.” I’m flattered and grateful. I’ve always maintained that there’s more to sci-fi than laser battles and bug-eyed monsters, so I’m really happy that people are responding so well to my stories.
You might consider joining the Podiobooks Community and looking into the Mentorship Group there. It’s where the established podiobook authors offer what limited wit and wisdom we can to up and coming podiobook authors.
Best of luck on your writing efforts! We need more authors!
February 15th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
this is awesome, I heard about it when I was listening to the linux reality podcast (go chess griffin!) and I have used up all of my internet downloads for the month from downloading as many of the
episodes as I could. I have never found scifi anything to shout about, I would read it, but only if I couldn’t find any fantasy to read, and I didn’t want to read eragon again. Now you will usually find me staring blankly at a wall, as I listen to quarter share, keep up the great work.
February 16th, 2008 at 6:16 am
I heard the first episode after finding you through the Linux reality podcast and I have to say that I really love it, so I’ll download the quarter share and see if it will be the first audiobook that I will finish
February 16th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Hehe! Excellent. I’m cautiously optimistic.
February 16th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
ahg, now was that time that I should have done some studying, but I’ve used it listening to your book instead, I’m on chapter 8 now, and I feel that I can say some more on what I think about the book so far
It was not as I thought it would be, like just another future/sci-fi story, I feel it is something more, the style of story reminds me more of the fantasy-books I’m very fond of, and I feel a bit “Harry Potter” in it here and there, I don’t know if it’s just me being my usual strange self though
I really like both the narration and the way it is written, it really sucks me in to the story, and at every chapter I get that good just another chapter feeling that I love to find in a book.
The way the last chapter is summarized in really feels very good too, gets the main points and doesn’t fill 2mins with recaps (something that is very good when you listen them in a marathon)
So far the only bad thing I can say about the book is that it will end some time, and I do not look forward to that happend.
And just a little question, the bentobox lunches do it come from the japanese word for boxed lunch (bentou)?
Thanks for the great work, and I really look forward to the sequels:)
February 16th, 2008 at 6:28 pm
Yea. I thought it would be cool to use that bento box idea
I’m glad you like the book. I give up on the recaps for the later volumes just because they were more work than they were worth and most people are doing what you’re doing — mainlining them chapter after chapter.
February 16th, 2008 at 11:54 pm
I want a bento box! (licks lips) I am on a listening marathon. but I had to stop because I hadn’t eaten in ages, and I forgot to go pee periodically, that could have been embarrassing.
February 17th, 2008 at 1:25 am
I’m only at episode nine, but I can’t wait to post at least my impressions so far.
This novel is a kind of SF I was starting to think didn’t exist anymore. I’d say it compares favorably to some of the greats of the genre — I’m brought to mind espescially to the Heinlein juveniles. I really look forward to finishing Quarter Share, and hearing the next two.
February 17th, 2008 at 6:33 am
Please do NOT harm yourself while listening.
This is why portable MP3 players were invented
February 22nd, 2008 at 9:04 pm
You had me at hello!
This is a captivating tale with so much detail that it boggles the mind. A masterful tale which has me looking in happy anticipation to the rest of the books in the series.
February 23rd, 2008 at 10:33 am
Aww .. I hope you like the rest of the books as much.
Myself, I think they get better the further on … I learned a lot as I was writing these.
March 2nd, 2008 at 11:52 am
I’ve listened to a lot of podiobooks during my commute to and from work, and I have to tell you that Quarter Share, Half Share and Full Share are the first books I’ve ever listened to a second time. I just started Quarter Share, and by the time I finish Half and Full I hope to be able to continue on with Double! Thanks for giving the world such a great story!
March 2nd, 2008 at 1:01 pm
I’m glad you like them, Geoff.
Don’t overlook South Coast for a little bit of back story on whelkies and the South Coast Shamans.
March 16th, 2008 at 2:06 am
I’ve just started listening to Quarter Share, and its absolutely brilliant. I can’t stop listening. I really enjoy how you’re able to take what seems like a very mundane set of characters and stories - at least, compared to other space operas - and make them so fascinating. Its just how similar Ishmael and his crewmates are to myself and the people I know that makes the story so interesting. There’s a quote I’ve heard, “real life can be pretty complex”, and it totally applies to your book. I love it, and I can’t wait to listen to the next in the series.
March 17th, 2008 at 3:42 am
Thanks, Paul.
The goal was to write a story about the “other people” in a science fiction landscape. I hope you enjoy the rest of the books as much as I enjoyed producing them.
March 21st, 2008 at 10:19 am
Outstanding. I have been a podiobook listener from almost the beginning. I started with Siglers Earthcore and gone from their. This story is enchanting. Nathan Lowell is a gifted author and storyteller. I have no been able to listen to anything else.
March 21st, 2008 at 10:48 am
*blush*
Thanks, Jason. Glad you like the story
April 1st, 2008 at 10:45 am
Ship shape work Mr. Lowell! A very personal story in the tradition of Master and Commander…and excellent way to introduce people to a spectacularly detailed microcosm of the future.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
Thanks, Tim!
I’ll hope that’s not a prank but really how you feel about it.
April 8th, 2008 at 8:38 am
Not at all - just finished Full Share as well, and I can say that the series reminded me a lot of the spirit of Heinlein and Robinson…the idea that the future is not one of just technological progress, but progress in the realm of human relationships as well.
As my wife said after listening - “I feel like a better person after listening to these books”.
So, are you going to do any speaking engagements/booksignings/cons? We live in Colorado…would love to meet you in person!
April 9th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
I *will* be at WorldCon in Denver in August.
My hopes for Balticon and DragonCon have been dashed for this year, but who knows… I’m not anticipating any book signings *this* year (wink wink) but I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
April 10th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Excellent! We’ll plan on meeting you at WorldCon.
April 19th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
I enjoyed this book very much. The protagonist is likable and believable, and his world is meticulously rendered in a leisurely fashion that allows the listener to slowly absorb the details. What’s even more impressive is that this story managed to hold my attention in spite of the fact that there’s precious little conflict. Ishmael makes no enemies, has no mysterious past, and is never in physical danger. He is not bullied or abused. He is not angsty. Barriers to his success fall without prolonged or agonized struggle. In addition, you’d think the author was British for how much he likes describing food. However, Ishmael, his friends, and his world remained engaging and entertaining. I especially enjoyed the little character studies and interactions among the crew. I was less interested in the economics lectures that got lengthier towards the latter half of the book.
Along those lines, this book is sort of a paean to Capitalism. That doesn’t bother me because I like Capitalism. However, a little bit of ambiguity would have made it feel more real - show us a few of the losers or abusers at ground level. No system is perfect. There was one line I found chilling. Ish says, “I don’t care what it starts life as, so long as it ends up as a cred in my account.” In context, it’s not quite as bad as it sounds freestanding, but it still made me wince. Economics are a central theme and driving force of the story. There’s a point around the latter third where all the minor conflicts have been mostly cleared up, and the only motivating factor left is money. Our heroes don’t even need the money for anything specific. No one’s life, love, or home are at stake. Honor and reputation are only marginally at stake. It’s just plain old lucre. This is very human behavior, very smart, business-like behavior, and money _does_ work as a motivating factor in fiction up to a point. However, if it remains the only thing at stake in the books that follow, then I suspect I will begin to lose interest.
The treatment of religion and sex in the story also struck me as odd. Religion is almost wholly absent from an otherwise realistic world. Since religion tends to be an inescapable feature of human civilization, that seemed strange. As for sex, the author isn’t afraid to mention it. He hasn’t sanitized it completely out of the tale, and the behavior of his young protagonist is believable. However, the adult characters seem a little artificial. Sex is limited to whatever connections they can make during a few days in port every few months. They have no long-term lovers, no true intimacy, no families, no children. All this in spite of the fact that they travel on a mixed-gender ship. The captain says, “Hey, everyone, please be celibate except for brief romps in port!” And they’re all like, “Sure! No problem!” Right….
If this sounds harsh, it’s only because the realistic aspects of the book were so well-drawn that the artificial aspects popped out. The writing is excellent, and the narrator voice goes with it perfectly. I _love_ the music. I look forward to future installments.
April 20th, 2008 at 4:24 am
Thanks, Abbie. Very clear and cogent analysis.
As for showing the downside to the system, Ishmael himself is one such as the story *begins* with his being threatened with catastrophe. Also, keep in mind that in first person point of view, you can only see what the character sees and, in this volume at any rate, Ishmael is rather stupid regarding the world around him.
Half Share addresses some of your points re sex and religion. The “sure, no problem” is not *exactly* true, and the new crew member has some issues regarding religion. The relationship aspects are resolved in Full Share when you finally see a much more complete view of the universe.
April 20th, 2008 at 10:01 am
You’re welcome. I gave you the sort of review I’d put on Amazon because you wrote a good book, and it deserved more than a pat on the head. I figured that some of these things were addressed in later books. These are just my impressions from book one. First person is both a powerful and a limited technique. You use it well, but, yeah, it can’t see around corners.
The thing about all my criticisms is that none of them stopped me from reading. You’re always going to have places in a book where a reader is confused or thinks you’re being unrealistic or doesn’t like what you’re saying, but at long as they’re not _so_ annoyed that they stop reading, you’re good! None of this got anywhere near my put-down-the-book switch.
On an unrelated note, I’m listening to Alen Greenspan’s _Age of Turbulence_, which is his biography and also a sort of biography of the economy. It’s more interesting than I expected. Bet you’d like it.
April 28th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
I just finished Quarter Share, and I’m now somewhat sad - Sad that its over! I’ve enjoyed J.C. Hutchins, Scott Sigler, -
There are different rides in an amusement park. Some scare the h*ll out of you and are enjoyable for that reason - others are pure, unadultered fun! Auditory Happiness!
I only have a couple of gripes. Ratings aren’t that easy! Ok, it wasn’t for me. Then again, I didn’t like the Navy, so I didn’t study (much) - just waited to get out….though I confess the Navy saved my sanity and perhaps my life - much as this merchant vessel saved Ish’s life - gave him something new - a new family that challenged him in ways that he’d apparently never been challenged before.
The only other plotholeum I saw, was where the youngsters thought of so many new things that more senior and seasoned members of the crew hadn’t thought of. Then again, I suppose that young people do tend to be catalysts, where more experienced people might choose decorum rather than ingenuity. I guess this is why young people are valued in industry… but I would expect family-sized merchant vessels to be looking for every single way they could to make money (because it couldn’t possibly be cheap to run a ship that size).
This story - more than any Star Trek story - made me want to live in this universe - and it talks of personal responsibility - more than the characters in ST. In ST, the Captain does what s/he wants, with little apparent regard for the crew. Here, the Captain and XO do seem to take unusual interest in the most junior members of the crew, but they do so in a positive way - and this is slightly explained in who the Captain is: The granddaughter of someone special. Moreover, it is a really small crew, so perhaps the interest isn’t so unusual after all.
I LOVED this story. I totally enjoyed grinning continuously the entire time I was listening… I liked the sound of the page turning in the background, and the chuckle as Nate read the text - reminded me of simpler days, when my parents read to me. Of course, they didn’t have access to nearly as fun a story as this one (and, I’m 42, so this story takes me WAY back).
I enjoyed the first person POV also. It is how we experience our lives (we don’t see the hidden conversations of others in our daily experience) - so it made it easier for me to ’shadow’ or ‘hang around with’ Ishmael - because I wasn’t off hearing someone else’s conversations.
I listened to it at work whenever I took a break, and startled quite a few people with my (from their perspective) frequent, spontaneous chuckles. I’m sure they were wondering just what the heck I was listening to and grinning about! I found it impossible to not tap my foot during the melodic interludes in between chapters. Good choice!
Keep up the outstanding work. I hope that you succeed beyond your wildest dreams, when you started this thing!
I can’t recall when I’ve had this much fun - (and as I’m a rather grumpy sort, thats saying something!)
Best Regards -
April 29th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Thanks, Ed.
Yea, the ratings WERE more difficult in the service, but that was due, partly, to the competition. In the Trader’s Tales, the idea is that you can create a kind of “skills transcript” that lets you take various jobs in a manner that’s totally unrealistic. It’s a dollup of plotonium, for sure, but I thought it worked out. He’s not particularly bright, but he CAN take tests well. That’s a comment on educational assessment as much as anything
Thanks for the long note and I appreciate the feedback.
July 5th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
I am starting my second run through the three books, because I really loved them, I just have to say nathan, well done, I love the books and can’t wait for double share
July 11th, 2008 at 12:26 am
Hi,
Just wanted to say I am enjoying Quarter Share immensely. I had just finished the 7th Son books by JC Hutchins, and was looking for something else to listen to. I downloaded Quarter Share, looked like a good story.
I went for a 6 mile run in the rain (training for a half marathon), and the story absorbed me so much, when I got home I found I wasn’t at all tired, and had to double check the clock to make sure I had actually run the 6 miles!
I really like your style- not too bogged down in minutiae, keeps a great pace, really likeable characters and not predictable. And I’m only a quarter way through.
So thanks for writing/ reading, and keep up the good work!
July 11th, 2008 at 5:21 am
Thanks, Joe.
There’s lots more Clipper-y goodness waiting for you.