Double Share
Nathan Lowell returns to his much-loved Traders Tale from the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper series, giving us the fourth book of Ishmael Wang’s travels: Double Share:
A Trader’s Tale from the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper : Book 4
When he graduates from the Academy at Port Newmar, Ishmael Horatio Wang reports for duty in his first assignment as an officer. When he gets to his new ship, he finds things are not exactly the way he’d learned in school. The coffee tastes like used engine oil, the ship has no heart, and the nearest decent tailor is two quadrants away. What’s a new Third Mate to do? Will he be able to trust Billy?
July 4th, 2008 at 9:25 am
You are a writing machine, Lowell.
July 4th, 2008 at 9:35 am
Thanks, PG. I try.
No new novels in July, but I’ll start Captains Share in August.
July 4th, 2008 at 10:00 am
I KNEW staying home from the parade would be worth it! Thanks Nate! What a nice present you gave to us on the date of our nation’s birth!
July 4th, 2008 at 10:41 am
Am I the only one who’s been checking since midnight?
July 4th, 2008 at 10:43 am
Not only have you made Ish come back to life, but the whole universe that Ish is in has become real. It is like meeting an old friend I haven’t seen in a long time.
Thank you, Nate, see you around the docks.
July 4th, 2008 at 11:21 am
There’ll be fireworks in celebration all across the country tonight!
You’re welcome, Stacy.
Sorry, Quandmeme. We had some last minute technical issues come up that delayed us.
I’m glad you’re still with us, Glynn… Say, that’s a familiar name …. Burleson. Any relation to the Burleson drive?
July 4th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Oh happy day! I’ve been dying for this one to start since I finished Full Share a few months ago. Nathan, you are a treasure.
July 4th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Fantastic! I’ve been eagerly awaiting this. Thanks Nate!
July 4th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
What a treat…summer vacation *and* a new Ishmael novel by Nathan? I’m a happy camper now!
July 4th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Well, I thought today was Independence Day here in the U.S.A., but I see now that it is Christmas in July!!! Thanks so much for the huge block of content!!!
Now if my kids will just take a nap, I could listen to an episode. Thanks again.
July 4th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Oh my god, I was so thrilled when I saw that Double Share was up and going! My mom and I listen to this series while we’re working, and we’ve practically fallen in love with Ishmael. I can’t wait until it’s complete.
July 4th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Nate, don’t take it that way! I’m being enthusiastic. I checked at midnight eastern time, central, mountain then pacific and then went to bed. Thanks for this, I hope enough contribute so that its worth your effort.
July 5th, 2008 at 4:16 am
Oh, I’m flattered, Quandmeme. Truly.
The fan reception is humbling.
July 5th, 2008 at 11:01 am
Fantastic! Can’t wait to start on this.
July 5th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Arggghhh!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! I logged on just on the off chance that there would be something new posted and I find this!
You are a God amongst authors sir!
July 5th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Talk about a name-dropper. If I had a nickle for every name I recognize finding its way in to Double Share… I’d have a handful of nickles.
E.
July 5th, 2008 at 5:02 pm
This is great, Nathan. It’s good to have you back.
The names, oh the names! and the inside jokes. Love it!
July 5th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
There’s a LOT of them.
And more to come.
July 5th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
I have to say I have been an avid reader of science fiction and fantasy genres for almost twenty years. I am 27 years old so you know. I have read the likes of J.R. Tolken, Orson Scott Card, Robert Jordan, Anne Maccafery, Mercedes Lackey, Issac Asmov, and many others, Mr. Nathan Lowell I believe to this point you are on par or surpassing these authors with your current story line. I know that you will continue to entertain me for a long time to come. I am sincerely amazed that you have not been picked up by a publishing company as of yet. I pray the Publishing companies change that situation very very soon.
To anyone considering giving this a listen you will highly regret it if you do not give this a spin.
Keep doing what your doing.
I’ll See you around the docks. Dustin
July 5th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Thanks, Dustin.
I’m flattered and gratified that you feel I’m in that company.
July 7th, 2008 at 5:56 am
Yay!
I’ve been listening to Moby Dick to fill some of the time between Nathen Lowell novels, but I can’t wait for my next installment.
I tried listening to some of the Miles Vorkosigan saga to fill the void, but I find him a dissatisfactory protagonist after Ishmael Wong. Ishmael makes a great hero in a quite unusual way. His modesty and work ethic are inspiring, which is one of the things that leaves me feeling good all day after listening on my morning commute.
July 7th, 2008 at 6:09 am
There’s more in the queue … Double Share will be 25 episodes when it’s done and I’m getting them into the pipeline as soon as I can.
July 7th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Very happy for the return of Wong. My wife even asked me what the silly grin on my face was all about. I explained and she’ll be listening soon.
July 7th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Thank you so very much for all the hard work and passion that you have poured into these Trader’s Tales. I think I can speak not only for myself but for all of the silent fans when I say; THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Your work is greatly appreciated.
My wife has also asked about my silly grin.
Chazlo
~Submarines still stink, but somehow, spaceships smell like roses.~
July 7th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Oh I’m so glad you’re enjoying them.
And obviously you haven’t smelled the William Tinker… I actually had it nicknamed the Stinker for awhile.
Stay tuned … there’s more action coming!
July 8th, 2008 at 7:03 am
Nathan you are a true master of this new frontier in literature. You bring characters to life like no one I have ever heard or read for that matter. When I have to stop listening it feels like I am parting from a good friend.
In short, ” Damn your good.”
July 8th, 2008 at 7:20 am
Thanks, Mike.
I’m trying to do the stuff that *I* would want to listen to that’s not being done elsewhere.
July 8th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
thank gawd Ish is back!
thanks in advance for this book and congratulations on your return to the current Podiobook line-up, Nate. the first chapters of Double Share are exactly what the midsummer needed and we were all waiting with baited breath.
July 8th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
I was away from my computer till now, and all had a good weekend, but this made it great. Thanks for all the hard work you put into it. You changed the way I see character development.
July 8th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
Glad to provide a little Summer entertainment and I’m glad you’re liking the story.
July 9th, 2008 at 7:53 am
Hey Nate, thanks for bringing us more Ish. I love driving down the road and listening to your great stories. I was wondering if there are going to be any spin off stories from the Share series or any other Sci-Fi future stories?
July 9th, 2008 at 8:09 am
South Coast is the first “spin off series” … it’s the first “Shaman’s Tale” and already available … Cape Grace is in the works. I wouldn’t rule out others as the idea of the South Coast Shaman evolves.
I’m also thinking about
- Port Newmar - “Ishmael goes to college” as an exploration of what higher education MIGHT be instead of what we have now.
- Back stories about Lois McKendrick, Cassandra Harrison, and Benjamin Maxwell.
I’ve had a LOT of requests for Pip stories.
I’m also thinking about a series of “Explorer’s Tales” that work in the process of R&D for new systems.
There’s also the possibility of “Smuggler’s Tales” … but I’m not sure how that would work since most things are legal in most places. It makes for an interesting challenge when so little is illegal, there’s no profit in a black market canned goods when you can go to the grocery store and buy them cheaply.
So, ya. I’ve still got WAY more ideas than I have time to explore.
And I haven’t even talked about steam punk
July 9th, 2008 at 8:44 am
Dare we say, “the next Alan Dean Foster”????
July 9th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
You know, I was just telling a friend that the one thing they might not like about Nathan Lowell’s writing was a clear lack of antagonists. All of the characters are generally good people who are just doing their best. “You mean sort of like real life,” he retorted. I smiled.
And then I listened to the first ten chapters of Double Share, where it looks like we may have some clear villains to deal with. Or at least, what may pass for villains in this universe. Looking forward to more!
July 9th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
It’s difficult for many people to find the story in the first three books because the main conflict is within Ishmael. The “nothing ever happens” routine.
In Double Share, that’s not the case. There’s people who are mean, self centered, and perfectly willing to use their positions of power for personal and selfish ends.
July 10th, 2008 at 5:13 am
Surely there has to be something in the universe that is both illegal to possess, yet is valuable enough to make smuggling worth the risk. Whether it’s narcotics, or just a high quality tobacco from an embargoed planet (think Cuba), the illegal nature of certain items would make them more profitable than if they were legal.
Granted, a story about drug smugglers just wouldn’t be what I’ve come to expect from a Nathan Lowell novel.
July 10th, 2008 at 7:42 am
That discussion is happening over on the fan forums at http://durandus.org/fans/ at the moment.
Feel free to join the fun there.
My take on the universe is very different from the commonly held perceptions … and you’re right about the expectations. Don’t look for “Pirate Tales” or “Smuggler’s Tales” any time soon.
July 10th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
+1 to the “Explorer’s Tales” concept. That would be a fun concept to expand on in this universe. Just keep it from devolving into Star Trek.
July 10th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
This may be old news, but I just found a podcasted interview with Nathan Lowell from the “Linux Reality podcast”. Nathan talks about his writing, his time in the Coast Guard and the origin of the ‘Share’ stories.
I enjoyed it so much I listened to it twice (while I wait for the next Double Share chapter).
http://www.linuxreality.com/podcast/episode-93-interview-with-nathan-lowell/
Thank you Nathan, a paypal is on it’s way.
Gary
July 10th, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Thanks, Gary.
Five more chapters are in the pipeline …
And that interview with Chess Griffin was a hoot. We had such fun. I should probably find the links to all the interviews out there and post them somewhere.
July 11th, 2008 at 3:17 am
^ /me agrees. I heard the Linux Reality interview weeks ago. I ‘d be interested in hearing the others too, if you can point me to them. Just … put them on your website?
July 12th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
Another five episodes to bring me great joy. And then a cliffhanger to make me want more. Curse you for being so good at episodic fiction, and again for being such an amazing writer of character-driven story. Now someone needs to hurry up and publish these books, I have space reserved for them on the shelf.
July 12th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
Sudden cliffhanger? Curse you, J.C. Hutchins!
Oh, sorry, old habit. So, who’s watching the Watchstanders?
July 13th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Nate, just curious. It sounds like Double Share will deal exclusively with Ish being a Third Mate. Obviously Captain’s Share and Owner’s Share will deal with Ish being a Captain and an Owner. What about 2nd and 1st Mates? Is there something in the works to deal with that time jump, or will it be like Port Newmar… something to look forward to (maybe) in the future.
July 14th, 2008 at 3:56 am
It’s likely that Second Mate will get skipped for now. I’m not sure about First Mate yet because I don’t know what the plot of Captain’s Share will be.
July 14th, 2008 at 9:17 am
I am glad that folks are enjoying the interview I did with Nathan on my Linux Reality podcast. It was an absolute treat to talk with him about Ish and the wonderful universe he is creating.
Nathan, I would like to echo the other comments and thank you for bringing Ish back and treating us to Double Share. Needless to say, I find myself taking extended lunch breaks gobbling up all the latest episodes so that, once again, I get all caught up before the end of story and have to wait. I keep telling myself that I won’t listen to any more podiobooks until they are complete, but I keep finding such great fiction here at podiobooks.com that I can’t help myself (I’m looking at you too, Mr. Holyfield).
Seriously, though, thank you, Nathan, for continuing this magnificent series and sharing your stories with us. I am a huge, huge fan and I really hope these books end up in published form one day.
July 15th, 2008 at 3:01 am
Nathan, You are a machine when it comes to writing. I love this whole universe. Every time I can’t find any thing that I want to listen to I load one of your books. I love listening over and over and never get tired of Ish’s trials. Though C’mon Ish should have toltally laid out The 1st cuz he’s a jerk. Please get published soon so I have these in Hardback or at least Paperback.
July 15th, 2008 at 4:51 am
Thanks, Dan.
I’m having a blast here and I’m glad people are enjoying the work.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Another post of kudos to Mr. Lowell. Excellent work. Inspirational to all.
Nice to see Ish coming into his own and dealing well (so far) with the harsh realities of working with people of less than stellar character. Really looking forward to seeing the series in print, too.
BTW - Shared a bit of the audio with a friend that reads aloud professionally and she was quite impressed with (and perhaps a bit envious of) your abilities.
Best,
Jeff
July 15th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Aww, shucks. Thanks!
I ‘m flattered!
July 16th, 2008 at 7:19 am
Nathan, you’ve done it again. This is an amazing book–if possible even better than its predecessors. Three cheers! And thank you SO much for creating your wonderful stories and delivering them up so gracefully in podcast format.
July 16th, 2008 at 7:23 am
A question, Nathan. Did you originate the term “deep dark”? It’s perfect–how did you think of it? I’m sure future space-faring generations will use the phrase just as off-handedly as Ish and his shipmates.
July 16th, 2008 at 8:57 am
Thanks, JJ.. I have to say it’s a blast to be producing these and I just wish I had more time to devote to them.
I don’t know where the term “Deep Dark” came from. I’m sure other people have used similar phrases and I’d hate to claim it only to discover that I’d forgotten that I’d read it 10 years ago in a David Weber novel or something.
I knew I needed a catchy kind of name for the place after watching Firefly and hearing the theme song … “Take me out to the Black. Tell ‘em I ain’t comin’ back.”
Deep Dark seemed like a really nice alliterative way to describe that area of space between the heliopauses.
July 16th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
I like the term Deep Dark, too, and up until Double Share it sounded like a place I wanted to be. Now I’m not so sure!
Thank goodness you are putting them up so quickly, Nathan. I’m sorry the story will be finished so soon, but I could not stand the suspense if it were otherwise. I worry about young Ishmael, but I enjoy the way he comports himself. Thanks!
I’m happy with the story lines you have going now, and I’m not too anxious to send you off in other directions. But you thought up this universe to start with, and I can trust you to keep on doing whatever it is that you do. If I’m lucky, I’ll get to listen.
July 16th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Woot Nathan! Another “Share”
Methinks I’ll listen to the other three again while I’m waiting for this one to accumulate some episodes.
July 17th, 2008 at 5:32 am
Nate,
I am a long time fan and have been looking forward to double share for a long time. Hopefully you will be able to give us a story about the academy and Ishmael’s escapades there. My favorite part of the previous novels was the trading. I hope to see more of that eventually but I love the direction this story is heading. I caught up on the first three before listening to this one. Thanks for cranking them out so fast. One of my favorite Heinlein books is Citizen of the Galaxy and my favorite part of it is when he is on the trading ship. You are right up there with him with these stories.
On a side note, is anyone else having issues downloading episode 21?
July 17th, 2008 at 5:35 am
Thanks. I liked the trading, too. I suspect we’ll see that re-surface as a theme when Ishmael becomes a Captain and - later - an Owner.
There was a hitch in the file. The new one has already been submitted and we’re only waiting for morning in AZ for the Podiobooks quality control check.
July 17th, 2008 at 6:29 am
is 21 still uploading? it’s the only one with an issue
July 17th, 2008 at 7:25 am
21 had an error .. I’ve replaced the file but it has to be re-released.
Hang in. It’ll be up soon.
July 17th, 2008 at 7:46 am
Another one of Nate’s books I wish would go on forever. Thanks again, Nate!!!
July 17th, 2008 at 8:08 am
Love this Series of stories! You have kept me hanging, but feed our addition very quickly this time!!! Great Job!
Appears that 21 is now up and good.
July 17th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Another fine tale, Nate! I was totally immersed in your universe and absolutely love the way Ish’s solid ethics and character have risen to the occaision. It’s been a great ride. I really enjoyed the way Ish affects the people around him, bringing the crew together and challenging the bad guys. The Tai Chi is stroke of genuis - to fight without fighting, perfect for Ish!
As I’ve mentioned in previous comments, I listen to these with my daughter (who just turned 13 this month). I was impressed with how you handled the sexual harrassment/assaults. Ish is an every day hero who follows his heart and honour, even when the path is fraught with difficulties. Writing for younger readers is not your focus, but I’m thrilled that Ish is a wonderful model of a good man, in an honest, down to earth way, for my daughter.
I had wondered in a previous comment about the sexual casualness of life in Ish’s world, but this story brings it into perspective. Casual sex for the willing but a strong message against sexual harrassment and assault. Another great message for my girl to know.
One other thing that made me chuckle was the phrase “do the needful”. In our global marketplace, a friend of mine was telling me that they get overseas directives from Bombay, that always state the orders and sign off “please do the needful”. It’s an unusual and amusing turn of phrase.
I rushed through the episodes like a greedy fan, as always, and will now re-listen to catch the nuances that I may have missed in my joyful inhalation of the story. Thank you so much for your work, Nate, and I look forward to seeing you in print as you deserve. Take care and keep us posted about your next book.
July 17th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Aww.. Thanks!!
Yes, the lifestyle issues are a tightrope. Unfortunately I don’t see humans getting a whole lot better in 250 standard years — and the reduced population densities will create some unfortunate opportunities for people like Burnside. This was a hard book to write because I didn’t want it to be cliche ridden but the question of the Bunk Bunny Culture was one that I thought needed to be explored and what better way to do it than by throwing Ishmael in the soup?
Believe me. When the next book is ready, it’ll be on podiobooks
July 17th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
The past weeks have been a good trip. Tough themes well done. Now I’ll just “thumb the tab and leave a nice gratuity,” as Nathan would say.
July 17th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Nathan Lowell does it again!
I was glad for the whelkie sighting.
July 17th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Nate, You’ve just made me break my cardinal rule of life. The rule is… never, Ever, EVER pay for what is freely given.
I am so thrilled with your stories, that I want to make it a tiny bit easier for you to give more of yourself with your books. I don’t have a lot, but my donation has been made. I will do my best to in the future give the suggested donation for each book you put out. I have some catching up to do, but I hope this little bit helps.
Ummm, would it be rude to ask when the next book will be written and podcasted? I’ll pay! *grin*
July 17th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Nathan;
Not only are you a writing machine… but there have been few novels (spoken or written) that have given me the gift of a permanent smile. From the first to the most recent, your work has done just that for me… a large, permanent and seemingly illegal smile.
And in the evolution of your work, I have been amazed to find your work achieve an ever finer, smoother finish… much like a whelke… ever more refined, smooth and deeply meaningful.
Any words of praise and appreciation seem febrile and insignificant… and yet you have all of them that I might conjure.
July 17th, 2008 at 10:08 pm
To tell you the truth I found the first three books a little boring. Not totally dry but just lacking physical conflict (note: I was listening to the 7th Son series at the same time so I might have been comparing the two) but this book was truly a pleasure to experience. You really are a great writer and (more importantly to me) a equally great story teller.
July 18th, 2008 at 2:59 am
The rich descriptions of shipboard life make you think that maybe you could just put in your application and join the crew of one of these solar clippers. This series of books contain many excellent observations of how people can interact in constructive ways in order to cope with the challenges of life.
July 18th, 2008 at 4:26 am
*blush*
Thanks!
Contributions are *very* gratefully accepted. I know they’re entirely voluntary and I’m doubly touched at the end of each quarter when I get the tally from Podiobooks. I’m just blown away by the generosity of the community and grateful for every cred.
Thanks, Jeff. I’m actually trying to write better each time. So far I think it’s working.
Goran, boredom was actually the main obstacle in those first three novels. How do people cope with it? How do they relate to each other? To be honest, I think I was a little too effective in depicting boredom and I’m kinda wishing I didn’t have new stories I want to tell … I’d go back and give them a re-write from the perspective of what I know now.
Stacey, it’ll be before the end of the year. I’m hoping to start it in August.
Thank you, all, for your kind words of support.
July 18th, 2008 at 5:53 am
As always, masterfully executed. You should very much consider revising (they are too good already for full re-writes) the first 3 books. In many ways you don’t even have to do this as part of the story line also flows with your own experiences in writing them, becoming more seasoned and in tune with the process as your characters also grow and mature. I would not want that ‘flavor’ to be lost in a rewrite or revision. I can definitely see these books going into print however… (perhaps 2 trilogies?
)
ps - I do indeed hope you decide to start again in august!
July 18th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Nathan, I have to ask, what was recorded when Ish left the Captains Cabin and forgot to turn off the mic? I was waiting and waiting for the ‘other shoe’ to drop when he reveiwed his recordings and found the nugget. You have a way of leaving someone in suspence, or can this be a lead into the next novel?
July 19th, 2008 at 4:49 am
Hmmm.. Good question. I’ll have to see if I can find the transcript.
July 19th, 2008 at 6:19 am
Another great book. Don’t tell Sigler or Hutchins, but, I like your books better, And those two and others, are great. Can’t wait till this fall. Keep it up. OH, and one more thing, “Trust Lois”.
July 19th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
The return of mister Wang was a welcome surprise. I have enjoyed every minute of it. Excellently done Nathan. Hopefully, there are more stories to come.
July 19th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Hi Nathan - I finally got to the end of Double Share and I’m so sad! What am I going to do until you finish the next book!? You, again, left so many doors open. I am *so* looking forward to where you are going to take us next. I want to know all about his next wardrobe, what was said in the Captain’s cabin (I too am waiting for that shoe to drop), how the new red-head fits in, what happens the first time they have a real drill, and why on Earth (or should that be “why in the Deep Dark”?) would Ish use that private contact ID!?
I love your use of words, especially in Charlotte’s deadly humor. Since I am listening, I can close my eyes and pretend I am a fly on the wall of the bridge. It’s wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing with us. I’m seriously looking forward to the next look into Ish’s world.
PS. You have a wonderful reading voice. Coupled with your other gift of writing, I consider myself lucky that you are willing to share your time. Also, I truly appreciate whatever you did to get Podiobooks to edit their intro bit more smoothly.
July 19th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
what another great book! i cant wait for the next one
July 19th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
Just thinking today about a spin off or even a back story idea. There is a lot of ’small world’ ‘who knows who’ back story. Captain Jagone, Mr. Maxwell, and the name slips my memory right now, but the new captain of the Tinker, and even the lady at the Union hall back when Ish applies for a spacer job. Lots of good people to wrap a story around for more of the Deep Dark.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
As with all of Mr. Lowell’s books, it’s an excellent work. Worth every second. Nathan clearly show that a great story can shine without the far-too-common blood, guts, violence and language that frequent far too many sci-fi ‘casts.
The entire series is one I can (and do) listen to repeatedly.
Thank you, sir.
July 20th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Thank all of YOU for the warm reception for works that break so many of the “rules of good writing” … I’m really looking forward to the next one.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
This is an amazing set of books. I enjoy every minute regardless of how many times I listen to it. Nathan, I can’t wait for the next book you produce, please do not leave us waiting.
July 21st, 2008 at 11:36 am
WOW! Once again, Nathan, you have completely re-worked the fabric of writing and churned out an incredible story. I find it amazing how your stories pull me in and I find myself picturing the story as I listen. You truly are a writer of bardic quality. Someone above grouped you with some of the greatest writers of Scifi and Fantasy and I will agree. I too look forward to adding this series to my bookshelf and look forward to the next installments in Ish’s career. Oh not to leave out the rest, Pip and others as well as the South Coast Shaman tales as well. With that…Thank you again for allowing us into your Universe.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:02 am
Nathan. You can’t do this to me… I downloaded entire book. And started to listen in a evening. I couldn’t stop until I finished the entire book! I didn’t sleep all night!!! This is just wrong. I never do this. This book and entire story is so good. Your writing is absolutely wonderful. Oh please write more… I am absolutely addicted. Thank you. More… Give us more… Please….
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:32 am
Thanks.
It’s in the works, but y’all have to give me time to write something. You can listen faster than I can produce!!
July 22nd, 2008 at 12:44 pm
This is the best book in this series so far. With quarter share I was drawn in to the world and culture of the Golden Age. As I listened to it I would tell my wife, “Well, nothing is really happening, but I can’t stop listening!” The description and dialogue were great. I have to admit, I don’t want sex in my stories. I realize that to round out certain relationships and conflicts, and in real life, sex happens. But if I wanted it in entertainment I would rent HBO. Written in the first person, Wangs sexual encounters began to sound like self-congratulatory male fantasies, sensative guy that he is…..I started Double Share with the idea that if this vein continued, I would drop the series. Instead, I got the true life glimps of what relationships, pressures and conflicts would be like in the deep dark. Well, done, and I look forward to more in the series, (while listening to South Coast).
July 22nd, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Ah, one’s perspective *does* tend to change between 18 and 25.
But don’t mistake the dysfunctional depictions of Double Share for a “true glimpse” — it’s really only one view and a rather distorted one at that.
I’m glad you enjoyed Double Share and I’m looking forward to putting Captain’s Share up this fall.
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:10 pm
This series is just GREAT! It is one of the best I have heard from podiobooks. I am realy looking forward to Captain’s Share.
July 23rd, 2008 at 5:30 am
I was mesmerized by this tale…again (4th time, you’d think this was a trend for Lowell works). Wonderfully intriguing characters, engaging narrative style, and longitudinal character development combine for a immerse escape. Add that the piece is perfectly seasoned with a wry wit and masterfully produced and you have a podcast that I rearranged my schedule to maximize listening time. Nate Lowell is one of the masters of the craft, equaling (and perhaps surpassing) Hutchins, Morris, Holyfield and even Sigler. [Sorry, you haven’t reached Mur, yet.]
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:46 am
Thanks, Erik.
Andy, I agree with you about Mur. That woman is just made of awesome and sprinkled with squee.
Glad you enjoyed Double Share.
July 24th, 2008 at 6:46 am
Awesome. Nathan you rock. The visualizations or the cramped corridors and smeared glass were marvelous. The roles were great. Wish I had your talent.
July 25th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Once again you mesmerized me with another fabulous tale. I could clearing visualize the whole store as it unfolded in my mind. Please don’t ever quit writing. Magnificent!
July 26th, 2008 at 1:21 am
Truly outstanding - again! I was determined to listen to Quarter, Half and Full before I jumped into Double. It took a few days, but I greatly enjoyed them all again. I resolved to listen to only two episodes of Double per day to make it last, I’m done in two days - arrghhh, could not help myself. Can’t wait for Captain. I’m guessing the one after that will be Owner’s Share. That has to be the one where Pip and Ish buy a derelict old ship and fix it up and turn all kinds of crazy profit, along with friends from the LM and WT!
Please do “Explorer’s Tales”, that sounds like a great new angle. We truly appreciate the tremendous amount of time you spend at this. Take care Nathan.
July 26th, 2008 at 4:39 am
Thanks so much.
Getting listener feedback is one of the things that keeps us going, and I really appreciate it.
July 26th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Wow! The first three were so gentle (though for me, not boring at all). You broke many rules of storytelling in them, and I loved every minute of it!
This episode was excellent as well, and like a bracing dunk in the water. It read almost like a horror novel. Ishmael encountering true evil that almost challenged his abilities
I do think Burnside would have gotten a spanner to the back of his head long before Ishmael arrived on board. Not many crewman are as patient and far-thinking as our hero.
July 26th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
I have just finished listening to this book. I couldn’t stop myself from listening to the next episode; almost like I have an addiction to your stories. All I could think as I finished and realized I wasn’t going to hear any more about Ishmael was… NNNNOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! It can’t be over! There must have been a hull breach in my apartment!
I love your Stories. I love the way you put so much feeling and personality into your reading. Your voice was made for this! I am taking life lessons from what Ish does and thinks. I gain a better understanding of the things that can help make me a better boss, leader, follower, boyfriend, lover, and human being. These books have been as or more helpful to me than any self help book I have ever read. And I have enjoyed the hell out of the experience.
I am so glad to hear that you are going to continue writing about Ishmael and the Age of the Solar Clipper. I will never grow tired of hearing what is new or history of these wonderful characters and places. You have created such a rich and colorful universe in spite of the fact that most of it is surrounded by the “deep dark”.
I have recently also listened to “Space Casey” and was surprised to hear the name of the “Fast Packet” is the Christiana Ellis. I really enjoy the way the podiobook community is so close knit and supportive of each other.
Well Done, Sar! Carry On…… Soon, Please!!!
July 26th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
oh, i’ve still got a lot of stories to write.
the question isn’t whether or not i’m going to write them.
it’s only a question of when.
thanks for your nice words.
July 27th, 2008 at 7:52 am
Another great story but such a startling difference from the first books. There may have been death and sadness and loss before, but it was all handled so civilly. This is the first time that we’ve seen Ish deal with someone truly evil and it was great to seem him handle so honorably as we’ve come to expect.
July 27th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
So, I just finished Double Share… What a ride! Nice story, witty repartee, not at all bogged down by technology, and overall very pleasant, if not too wordy. The story of Ishmael Wang, as written and read by Nathan Lowell, is a very positive view of humanity in the far future. Please sair, regale us with more of Ish’s journeys, his candor and jocularity. I hope Ish gets in touch with old friends as he gains new ones. Here’s what my mind said after the last episode: I very much hope there’s more…
July 28th, 2008 at 5:00 am
Amazing stories, really hope you are going to add to the storie. I would love to see 4 more in the serie. Really love how you captured the every day in the first 2 books, and the story never gave any dull moments, just wish they where longer.
Keep up the fine work, and I’ll be looking forward to any of your next releases.
PS: Loved Your South Coast to!
July 28th, 2008 at 7:43 am
Thanks, Chris, Jon, and Frode .. We have plans for two more ‘Share books over the next few months.
And another Shaman’s Tale as well.
I’m very pleased and gratified that people are enjoying this rather darker look into the Golden Age.
July 28th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Thank you again for a great “read” I promised myself that I would let the subscription go it’s course this time at once every 3 days. That all went out the window today at around chapter 19. Looking forward to more in your verse
July 29th, 2008 at 4:25 am
It’s so gratifying to know how compelling these stories are.
Thank you!
July 29th, 2008 at 6:43 am
A suggestion for the missing ‘accidental’ recording of the captains cabin, in the next novel, maybe a side note of the courtcase brought on by the recordings evidence. I was relistening to Double Share yesterday and when Mr. Malloney says we will never be able to try them in court, well he owns the ship, and thus the recordings in a corporate settings would be legal.
July 29th, 2008 at 7:04 am
ahh.. the missing recording.
This is quite likely true. There is no expectation of privacy.
I *may* have to get the transcript of that recording. I know where the audio files are stored.
July 31st, 2008 at 8:59 am
It certainly is too bad that there’s no such analogy for page turner when it comes to audiobooks (an ear-magnet??? dunno) I’ve really enjoyed all your works, and am anxious to hear the next installment.
Keep up with the excellent work!
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:03 am
After enjoying the first three…..I Thought I was going to be disappointed especially buy the casual brushing off of Bev OFF-STORY. But the slow build up kept me interested. Turning Ish into A Great White Hope was a little Predictable but, it was played out very well. His New “Harem” was just as interesting as his first. But without the obvious overtones. I do look forward to Ish’s next adventures.
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:51 am
Thanks, Luis. Not exactly an “ear worm” .. perhaps an epi-slammer?
August 4th, 2008 at 6:48 am
And to think that we all knew Ishmael Wang when he started on the Lois!
Keep up the good work; this is a great series.
August 4th, 2008 at 7:03 am
Thanks, Asher.
It’s turning into a franchise
August 4th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Nathan,
Thanks so much for your wonderful storytelling. I just finished the final chapter of Double Share and found it heartwarming and deeply satisfying. I look forward to the continuing saga as well as the future stories in the Shaman’s Tales.
milo
August 8th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
yup, best one yet. loved the increased tension and conflict… really fun book.
I was wondering… I believe in QS you mentioned “battle stations” I was wondering if you’re going to get into that in any of the following books… are there space pirates in this universe?
How is the progress on Captains Share?
August 8th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Actually, I think the drill in QS was “General Quarters” which is not “Battle Stations” …. GQ when hands are needed for a ship board situation that might not be covered by normal operating drills.
There’s a lot of discussion on the fan forums about pirates, but the economics of piracy is problematic …
August 12th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
I’m reaaaallly trying to drag this one out. I ruined everything by listening to 4 episodes today. Now I’m down to the last 5 and can’t possibly make this audiobook last much longer than a couple more days.
Looking forward to the fast arrival of the next one!
August 12th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
I’m sorry you’re almost out. I wish I had a fresh refill for your ears.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:32 am
Fantastic wordage, superb narration, great characters, what can I say without writing a whole book? Best podcast I’ve happened across yet! I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Something to enjoy a second time around…
We want MOAR!
August 14th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Thanks, Demetrius
I’m glad you liked it.
August 15th, 2008 at 8:22 am
Absolutely outstanding. Compulsively readable. Ridiculously addictive. Hands-down the best of the series to date. The one and only advantage there is in having finally finished it is I’m free to do something else besides spending all day listening
Thanks for this. You do know how to spin an excellent yarn. Looking forward to more.
August 15th, 2008 at 8:24 am
Thanks, Samantha. I’d ilke to think I’m getting better as I go
August 15th, 2008 at 11:36 am
I am an avid audio-book/drama listener. When my subscribed podcasts waned, I looked for something finished to add to my ipod. I downloaded a few episodes of Quarter Share. I was hooked from the first episode. I have listened to all four books in the series, and am looking forward to listening to South Coast, and am excited about the next portion of Sarah’s story.
As an aside, Thank You Nathan, for acknowledging the import of the knit/crochet community. I was so excited to here about Shawn and the Co-ed Crochet team, and I appreciate your attention to detail, and your awareness of which craft is which. I am a knitter/crocheter, and you can bet your bottom dollar that if I were a spacer, that is what I would be doing with my mass allotment.
Thanks for such wonderful stories, I can’t wait to hear more from you.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Thanks, Sarah!
The fibre crafts are something that I’ve always been fascinated with myself. More, the clipper ship sailors were known to crochet and knit so it seemed a nice touch to add the Co-Ed Crochet Team.
Glad you like the stories and thanks very much for listening.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Yay! Nathan. It made me very happy that the Double Share episodes were released so rapidly. I’d no sooner noticed that Double Share had become available then it was done. I went back and re-listened to the older Shares first to get into Ish’s head again and reconnect with the Deep Dark. I really enjoyed the older stories and this latest one did not disappoint. It feels like the beginning of a new trilogy with Ish more mature and better educated. Of the four I think Double Share was the best. South Coast is still my favorite of all your writings but I really liked the multi-tiered conflicts Ish worked to resolve in Double Share. He’s a force of nature, like a little rivulet eroding its way through a rock. Gentle but determined and patient. I also like that he inspires people to be their best. He’s an all around good character. I liked that Tai Chi has been added to his exercise routine, it goes better with his nature than a fighting discipline and it reinforces the sense of the character’s silent strength. Good show, man. Good show! Keep writing; I’ll keep listening and giving you stars. Ta!
August 16th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
WOW! I feared starting this book because I knew that everything else would have to be put aside. When Mr. Lowell releases a book, I must listen as close to non-stop as my job, my family and my need for sleep will allow. While each of the 3 previous “Share” books was excellent, this one was more than a cut above. I was angry, fearful, sad and laughed until I had tears streaming down my cheeks! What a ride! Our man Ish is a little bit of a goody-two-shoes, a little too trusting and even a bit too optimistic, but he is funny and by no means a push-over! Pick a fight with him at your own risk! My compliments to the chef!
August 17th, 2008 at 10:51 am
Nathan,
Thank you for a story worth telling, with suspense, humor, and human caring. We need more stories from you regarding how Ish achieves the rank of Captain and his own ship. Can’t wait for Captains Share to be published. You tell a wonderful tale.
Keep Ish growing.
Merritt
August 17th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Thank you, Onion, Dave, and Merritt:
I’m not doing well in getting Captains Share going because my July Project has run into August without being close to done. This is VERY distressing to me.
It makes my brain hurt.
It’ll get there, tho.
August 18th, 2008 at 8:44 am
Wow.
On a previous “Share” book, I commented on how it was an excellent book even though there was little to no conflict. With this book, that caveat has been eliminated - there’s plenty of conflict, and suspense.
We couldn’t stop listening Sunday, and heard the last 21 episodes in a row.
Great job, Nathan.
August 18th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Yea, this book turns the story inside out and almost all the conflict happens in a more traditional antagonist/protagonist way.
Glad you liked it, Doug
August 19th, 2008 at 7:38 am
Couldn’t stop listening and drove my wife nuts this past weekend..I was so afraid that Ishmael would either get killed or have to compromise his ethics.It was a nice change of pace from the perfect world of the Lois! so whats next
August 19th, 2008 at 8:32 am
Captain’s Share is next.
Patience.
August 19th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Nathan,
Thank you for a great book and an incredible series. Double Share was my favorite yet. Since I went through all four books in a week I think I may go nuts waiting for Captain’s Share. I suppose that leaves me plenty of time to make a donation… http://www.podiobooks.com/blog/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif
August 24th, 2008 at 9:24 am
Nathan you make reference to your July project running into August. Can we ask that the July project is? Hopefully another audiobook, maybe in the South Coast line or a new spin off?
August 24th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
Thanks, Shawn. Glad you liked the stories.
Pave? I *can’t* say, other than to acknowledge, somewhat shamefacedly that it is NOT another audiobook. And I’m still not done with it.
You’ll like it when I can tell you, I think, but you’ll have to bear with me for a while longer.
August 26th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Nate, you’ve done it again! Have you ever served in the Merchant Marines, or the US Navy…? My God Man, where have you gotten all of your insight into shipboard life…?
I loved the way you managed to make Ishmael get the situation on the Billy Tinker cleared up without having to strike a single blow…! Good Job Sir.
Jim Fleming
August 26th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
Thanks, Jim.
Five years in the US Coast Guard. I spent a year bobbing in a cutter in the North Atlantic. Gave me some insight into the importance of a good cuppa coffee.
August 27th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
Nathan I have to give you this compliment. I was relistening to the series again (for the 8th time) and I finally figured out what your series and narration reminds me of. The series ‘Little Britches’ by Ralph Moody and read by Cameron Bierle. And I have met Cameron in Spokane, WA were he works. Still awaiting the last from you.
August 28th, 2008 at 3:30 am
There’s one more book (at least) on the docket for this year - and more news to come.
September 3rd, 2008 at 2:30 am
WELL … !!! whot more could i add to this list ?? i can agree with all the comments that you’ve had …
but i just had to add my bit .. please please please >>
i have been waiting for this book for some time now and you did not dissapoint again !!
i could not let it go ..
can we have more and don’t stop !!!
WOW i was on the the player ff to get to the next chapter everytime !! and do the whole book in 2days
BUT now what do i do ??? can’t wait till next one
well done nathan for a brilliant story and so well told
cheers luke
September 3rd, 2008 at 3:43 am
Thanks!
There’s more on the event horizon
September 22nd, 2008 at 4:00 pm
BTW, just put up a review on my latest “Grizzly’s Growls” podcast. Wasn’t my best review ever, I’ve had a bad month, but it was at least favorable. Thanks for the excellent story.
I look forward to “Captain’s Share.” I’ll be interested to see if my expectations in the review turn out to be accurate.
September 22nd, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Thanks, Griz.
All reviews are appreciated.
September 25th, 2008 at 7:10 am
Hi Nathan.
Thanks to let me feel again the Universe of Ish. I listen to “Full Share” until a few momments ago. Do you know how hard it is when the last word is spoken and there is nothing left - its like a withdrawal. I troubled because i have to wait for tripple share or captains share. You did a great work, and i hope you will do a lot more. like the “Share Series”. Thanks a Lot, to you and your family, for your invested time, to give us, stranger that we are, a great experience. (sorry for my english but my russian is worse)
September 25th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
You’re welcome, Daniel.
I’m glad you found something good to listen to and I’m sorry for the withdrawal. Captain’s Share (or at least Cape Grace) should be along shortly.
September 28th, 2008 at 5:46 am
Another great story, Nathan! The audio quality, reading, and music were very well done as before.
I find I am unable to do the reviews on the books. I don’t know if it is firefox on linux that is the problem or if it’s something on the site. The Submit rating button works, but I don’t have any way that I can find to actually do the ratings.
September 28th, 2008 at 5:48 am
I think I actually was able to do the rating just now. After I posted, I saw the stars were not gold. I was able to click on them and then submit the rating. So that seems ok.
September 28th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Thanks, Anita!
I appreciate the extra effort!
September 29th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
I finally got a chance to listen to the remainder of Double Share. What a pleasure. Great storyline, Nathan. You make the characters come alive! I can’t wait for the rest of the Ishmael Wang series.
September 30th, 2008 at 2:59 am
Thanks, Bob.
I’m getting more and more anxious to get this out myself!
September 30th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
Nate, another donation has been placed… This makes it a Double Share for me, LOL!
Thanks Mon, it’s truly a blessing to be able to enjoy such fine entertainment.
Keep up the good work, but hurry, slowly, with Captains Share!
Kidding, of course…kinda, LOL!
Jim
October 1st, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Nathan another home run! Ish has my heart and my respect as a character. I simply can’t wait for his next adventure. And could you let me barrow the gal with hands that can open a pickle jar… I almost fell off my chair laughing.
Congrats
R
October 1st, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Thank you, Jim.
And thanks, Rhonda - I try to find characters that aren’t the run of the mill
October 8th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
I don’t know what it is about this series that I like so much… but please keep them coming!
October 8th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
It is weird, isn’t it?
I’m a little afraid to really figure it out in case I jinx it.
and I’m glad you like them
October 13th, 2008 at 10:53 am
Brilliant…. glad to here there’s more to come. Can’t wait for Captains share. Now listening to south coast, it’s helping with the withdrawl symtoms
October 13th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Thanks!
The next book *should* be out in December.
NaNoWriMo is coming!
October 23rd, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Wow i have just finished listening to all of your books and well fantastic can’t wait for next book!!!!
October 23rd, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Thanks, Shawn. I can’t wait either! : )
October 26th, 2008 at 9:33 am
Excellent stuff. Ishmael Wang makes me feel safe.
October 26th, 2008 at 10:09 am
Thank you, Mika.
He makes me feel safe, too.
October 29th, 2008 at 6:46 am
An other really good book.
But I was quite disappointed to see that a quarter of the story is just a pointless thread that leads nowhere and is dropped before the end (recording using the tracking with the tablet, etc). It got me pretty angry when the book finished and that Ishmael didn’t provide any other evidence using this to get David in jail or something.
October 29th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Sorry about that.
There *was* a purpose to it. Just not the one you expected. The pertinent question to ask is: “What incriminating actions happened after the recording capability was established and would any of the sounds have been useful?”
Thanks for listening, and I hope you enjoy the next book.
November 2nd, 2008 at 7:05 pm
your books are favorites of mine to listen to while working. something about your voice and pacing help me into a state of mind where i can focus for hours. i appreciate how you create excitement with minimal conflict, and how civil your characters and their solutions are. the world you’ve created is a nice one.
however, it kind of bugs me when I. H. Wang does something, and then, when commended on doing it, protests that he didn’t do anything. who is he trying to fool? it’s interesting in that context that he’s named after two characters who are mostly watchers, outside the action in their respective stories.
thanks for writing these. i appreciate your work.
November 2nd, 2008 at 9:04 pm
There’s a belief that Ishmael holds - which he learned from his mother - called noblesse oblige. It’s the obligation that people in positions of power have to pass the credit for good works down. This was particularly true in the case of the William Tinker. As a new Third Mate, Ishmael’s efforts were only to enable others to do good works. He sees that as his duty. He doesn’t feel that it’s right for him to take credit for the work when it wasn’t his hands that did it, only his influence that allowed or caused it to happen.
And thanks for the kind note!! I love hearing from people who listen to my stories. Keep listening! There’s more on the way.
November 25th, 2008 at 11:02 am
Nathan, I just wanted to tell you how wonderful i think your writing is, i haven’t been checking podiobooks for quite a while so i was pleasantly surprised to find another chapter in the life of one of my favorite characters Ismael Horatio Wong. Your books are by far my favorites that i have downloaded, and i am absolutely jubilant that i have some more. Please keep writing and bring us more. I feel so connected with the characters in your books that i look forward to growing old with them
November 25th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
Thanks, Brian.
I’m glad you were able to find something new to listen to
November 30th, 2008 at 11:49 am
Nate, this has been fantastic. I teared up at the end of the story. Thank you. I needed to hear that and absolutely love the universe, story, and series. Your work is brilliant and I am SOO glad I found it (thanks to Chris Miller). Great job!