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Empire Builders

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Empire Builders

By: Ben Bova
Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki
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About this listen

Dan Randolph never plays by the rules. A hell-raising maverick with no patience for fools, he is admired by his friends, feared by his enemies, and desired by the world's loveliest women. Acting as a 21st privateer, Randolph broke the political strangle-hold on space exploration, and became one of the world's richest men in the bargain.

Now an ecological crisis threatens Earth—and the same politicians that Randolph outwitted the first time want to impose a world dictatorship to deal with it.

Dan Randolph knows that the answer lies in more human freedom, not less—and in the boundless resources of space. But can he stay free long enough to give the world that chance?

©1993 Ben Bova (P)2010 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Hard Science Fiction Science Fiction Fiction

Critic Reviews

"I believe that by far the science fiction author who will have the greatest effect on the science fiction world, and the world as a whole, is Ben Bova." (Ray Bradbury)
“Solid action-adventure/politicking/consciousness-raising from a veteran pro.” ( Kirkus Reviews)
"A rollicking good read!" ( Starlog)
All stars
Most relevant  
Like most of Ben Bova, I enjoyed the book. I like Stefan's narration generally but his Australian accent is the worst I've ever heard 😀 . I realise it must never a hard one, since most actors don't seem to be able to get it right (Meryl Streep being a notable exception) but Stefan's rendition is like a mixture of Irish, South African Afrikana and Cockney. Don't let this put you off. If you aren't an Aussie, you probably won't notice and if you are, just don't let it spoil a good yarn for you.

Unfortunate Aussie accent

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A solid story but I couldn’t help but pulled out of the story whenever Dan, Jane and Morgan’s relationships popped up. I just don’t understand why Mr. Bova retconned these relationships or personalities as it does actually add to the story over all.

Very good but retcon characters

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