When down-on-his-luck space station janitor Johnny Gomez discovers a mysterious data-chit, he’s thrust into a wild, action-packed chase across the solar system, pursued by criminals and forced to rely on a ragtag crew of smugglers and misfits. Blending humor, found family, and themes of self-discovery, the story delivers a lighthearted, fast-paced space adventure with quirky characters and immersive world-building.

Reader Review Summary

Set in a future where humanity, augmented humans, and diverse alien species coexist on space stations and across the solar system, the story follows Johnny Gomez, a janitor—or 'space broom'—on Kilgore Station. After a decade of cleaning up alien messes and enduring a dead-end job with a harassing boss, Johnny's life changes when he discovers a data-chit hidden in alien excrement. This find makes him the target of multiple criminal syndicates and propels him into a high-stakes adventure. With the help of his augmented roommate Rygar, a pair of smugglers (Hooper and Leilani), and Lisette, a mysterious woman from his past, Johnny embarks on a journey to Luna (Earth’s moon) to sell the chit to the Obinna Crime Syndicate. The narrative blends action, humor, and moments of introspection, featuring elements such as found family, friendship, and the challenges of self-discovery, all set against a backdrop of detailed world-building that includes unique alien customs, futuristic technology, and a post-Terra society.

Readers frequently praised the book’s fast-paced, entertaining plot and the balance between humor and action. The world-building was highlighted as immersive and creative, with many noting the effective integration of alien species, futuristic slang, and the depiction of life on space stations and Luna. The found family dynamic and the relationships between Johnny and the supporting cast, especially Rygar and the smugglers, were often cited as highlights, adding warmth and heart to the story. Many appreciated the protagonist’s older age (late 30s), the relatable themes of stagnation and second chances, and the accessible, light tone reminiscent of works like 'Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,' 'Red Dwarf,' and 'Cowboy Bebop.' The book’s humor, quirky scenarios, and references to pop culture and sci-fi tropes were also well received by a significant portion of readers.

Some readers expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of the book’s pacing, particularly noting a slow start before the action picks up. Criticisms included the perceived lack of depth in character development, with several finding the supporting cast one-dimensional and Johnny’s behavior at times immature for his age. The tone was described by some as inconsistent, shifting abruptly between lighthearted adventure and unexpectedly graphic violence, including a detailed torture scene that some found jarring. Questions were raised about plot logic, such as how quickly criminal syndicates learned about the data-chit and the plausibility of the crew’s rapid camaraderie. A few readers found the humor or dialogue off-putting, and some were disappointed by the absence of non-human main characters despite the rich alien setting. There were also comments about the writing style, with some finding it too expository or reliant on telling rather than showing.

The book has an average reader rating of 3.73 out of 5 from 77 ratings and 61 full reviews, indicating a generally positive but mixed reception. It is positioned as a light, accessible entry in the science fiction and space opera genres, with a focus on adventure, found family, and personal growth. The narrative includes Hispanic representation and references to Latin family dynamics, and the setting is described as queernormative and non-human centric, though the main cast remains human or augmented. The story concludes with hints at a sequel, and several readers expressed interest in further adventures with Johnny and his crew. The book is scheduled for publication on March 25, 2025, by Angry Robot Books and is recommended for readers seeking a fun, fast-paced sci-fi romp with comedic and heartfelt elements.