Drafted

I went into Drafted expecting a straightforward sci-fi thriller, but what I got was a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition in the face of existential threat. Sampson's world-building is meticulous, with a level of detail that immerses the listener in the alien world. Yet, it's the way he handles the human characters that truly sets Drafted apart. We're not dealing with cookie-cutter heroes here - instead, we get complex, messy individuals who are driven by desperation and a desire to survive. It's a beautifully messy portrayal of humanity at its worst, and it's all the more compelling for it. One of the few missteps in an otherwise propulsive narrative is the somewhat hasty resolution of the conflict. It feels like Sampson tries to cram too much into the final act, resulting in a few too many convenient plot twists. Still, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise excellent listen. Shoales' performance is consistently strong, and his ability to navigate the rapid-fire pacing of Sampson's story is a testament to his skill as a narrator. If you're a fan of science fiction with a healthy dose of action and adventure, Drafted is an absolute must-listen.