In the tradition of Golden Age Science fiction, D. R. Schoel provides another episode from The Galactic Culinary Society.

At times I think of Red Dwarf, Dr. Who and other light entertainments while reading this author’s stories, though they definitely have smarts. At bottom, this is another easily digestible smorgasbord of gustatory delights, all sufficiently exotic, celestial, and creative to satisfy my appetite for futuristic adventure with an eye toward dietary appreciation. Don’t get caught up in the gimmick; there is a real story and a lovable protagonist, as you will find in the other installments. Each stands alone as a self-contained tale and manages to juggle innovative ideas with gentle humor and quirky situations.

A captivating trip with a savory twist – roping in a cooking method to place our protagonist in peril, adds a bit of clever escapism, but I look forward to the memorable imagery and quick-paced plots the author provides. This is a fun two-hour read and an excellent value for your Kindle library – with a bonus story to boot.

I am still trying to pronounce Xstersi.

I’ve always been slightly suspicious of sourdough starters. Watching yeast bloom is typically an unsettling endeavor. But I never expected the second story to turn this subliminal uncertainty into a crackerjack tale.

Looking forward to what the author brings out next.