Red Noise

March 2, 2020
Murphy skillfully transports spaghetti western tropes to a lawless space station in this action-packed debut. The reclusive, unnamed heroine, an asteroid miner, docks at dilapidated Station 35 hoping to sell her ore, restock her supplies, and interact with as few people as possible. But Station 35 is a violent, unsavory place controlled by a corrupt, all-powerful corporation, and its inhabitants prove intent on cheating and exploiting her. So the Miner, a former intelligence-corps officer of mysterious, dark repute, sets about cleaning up the station by any means necessary—gathering allies, securing resources, and using the already-raging turf war between rival gangs and crooked cops to her advantage. The Miner’s a resourceful, intriguing protagonist determined to bring order back to Station 35, no matter how violent it gets. Though not all of the inhabitants of Station 35 are as well-rendered as the lead, snappy dialogue and plenty of dry humor keep the pages turning. This fast, fun space western is pure entertainment. Agent: Evan Gregory, Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency.

June 5, 2020

Seeking only the perpetual solitude of her ship and work, the Miner docks at Station 35, hoping to sell her asteroid ore and get out. When the price for her cargo is anything but fair, the Miner explores further into the confines of the station, and what she discovers forces her into the throws of an interminable and dangerous battle between rival gangs and corrupt law enforcement. When the bitter campaign between an unstable mob boss and his treacherous former second in command starts threatening the life of her only friend on the station, the Miner realizes she has a critical decision to make: leave and save herself, or use her skills with a blade to end the deadly brawl once and for all. The story that unfolds contains plenty of twists and gruesome action. The Miner's sense of vindication and her capriciousness make her an unreliable, albeit interesting protagonist; however, the lack of further character development and depth causes the plot to remain stagnant. VERDICT Libraries with well circulating sf collections may want this one; otherwise, pass.--Carmen Clark, Elkhart P.L., IN

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