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Star rating

Poll complete
15 people answered in 1 day.
15 US-based respondentsScience fiction readersMen
September 21, 2023Public
September 21, 2023Public

Q: Which book would you rather read?

Star Rating

He’s a disgraced Star Corps pilot. She’s a runaway with no future. And they’re the good guys. Since being dishonorably discharged from the Star Corps, pilot John MacAlister has struggled to make ends meet with less-than-legal cargo runs across the cosmos. He’s desperate to get his life back, but every time John thinks he’s found that “one last job,” some new disaster lands him back at square one. After an ill-fated smuggling run ends with a disastrous crash landing on the moon (and an even more disastrous landing in the local lunar lockup), John is offered a choice: rot in a Galactic Union prison forever or locate a teenage runaway named Ril and bring her back to the authorities. It seems like an easy decision—until John actually meets Ril, and discovers the scrappy teen isn’t just a runaway; she’s the only witness to a murder. And the killer? Why, none other than the very man who got John kicked out of the Star Corps: Captain James Kedron, a ruthless, power-hungry officer who will stop at nothing to silence Ril forever. For the first time since his dishonorable discharge, John has a purpose. Despite facing impossible odds, he vows to protect Ril and expose his former commander’s corruption no matter the cost. The only challenge? Living long enough to actually do it. Blanchland Blues is a fast-paced, grounded, and witty science fiction adventure sure to instantly win over fans of Andy Weir’s The Martian, Michael Ruben’s The Sheriff of Yrnameer, and the timeless humor of the late, great Douglas Adams. Praise for Blanchland Blues ★★★★★ Sci-Fi pulp in the best sense of the term: a ripping good yarn. ★★★★★ Great characters + drama + humor = a fantastic story ★★★★★ Almost perfect. A science fiction story with brains, heart, and excellent writing. The characters are fleshed out, and the plot develops almost flawlessly "Some novels are just entertaining, uncomplicated, relax-and-enjoy-the-ride stories. Blanchland Blues is exactly that." -- Amazon Reviewer "A rollicking western adventure set on a strange, distant planet... An interesting, thoughtful story about ideals and sacrifices to maintain them." -- Goodreads Reviewer

AI Summary

The survey results indicate a range of opinions regarding the book in question. The most common theme among the responses is the interest in sci-fi and space opera genres, with multiple respondents expressing their enthusiasm for such stories. Many respondents rated the book positively, with ratings of 4 or 5, highlighting their curiosity about the plot and potential for suspense and adventure. Some respondents mentioned their preference for unique twists or settings in sci-fi stories, indicating a desire for originality within familiar tropes. However, there were also some reservations expressed by certain participants who found similarities to other well-known works like Star Wars or Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, questioning the originality of this particular book.

Based on these poll results, it would be interesting to further investigate readers' perceptions of originality in science fiction literature. One hypothesis could be that readers value a balance between familiar tropes and unique elements when it comes to choosing books within this genre. This could be tested by presenting participants with different descriptions that vary in terms of familiarity versus uniqueness and analyzing their preferences accordingly.

Another hypothesis worth exploring is whether comparisons made between a book and popular works influence readers' expectations and interest levels. It would be intriguing to conduct an experiment where participants are provided with two versions of a book description - one without any comparisons to other works and another that includes such references - to observe how these comparisons impact their likelihood of wanting to read the book.

By delving deeper into these hypotheses through additional research or experiments, we can gain valuable insights into consumers' preferences within the science fiction genre specifically related to originality and influence from existing works.

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Responses15

This looks pretty good to me. Just needs a classic 1970s style sci-fi pulp art for the cover.

#1

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The story reads like very generic Star Wars. The main character reminds me of Han Solo. There isn't much originality here, but it does sound like a fun read if you don't expect it to be too deep.

#2

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Seems like a good space opera with an interesting back story to add to the suspense and drama of the book. I’d read it.

#3

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Sounds like a lot of suspense and good sci-fi thriller. This is right up my alley.

#4

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I think that I would try this book if it was available to me and I saw it on, say, a library shelf.I would warn that the, "This book is like X" recommendations are all over the place. I doubt that it actually is similar to Hitchhikers Guide AND The Martian. Those are two very different genres.

#5

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i have many books on my list before I would read that. I’m going to have to say, no. I have many episodes from Star Trek to watch that I have yet to see, also.

#6

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I like the 4th descriptor. For me it sounds the most adventurous and the most fun to want to read and learn more about the story and what happens.

#7

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This sounds like a pretty interesting read. I grew up on Star Wars, and have been reading Halo novels, for the past 20 years. So, yeah, sci fi is my thing. I am definitely curious about the rest of the story. Sounds like a great book.

#8

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It sounds like it would be fun to read, and keep me interested when I was bored.

#9

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The premise is interesting, and overall I would probably want to read it. My one concern is that you cite multiple other authors, and this is both lazy and implies that it's a ripoff of one or more of them.

#10

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I would at least give this book a shot!

#11

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Sounds intriguing..... i'd give it a read. Also sounds like something that should be made into a movie.

#12

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Blanchland Blues sounds interesting and unique; I am a fan of sci-fi stories with a unique twist or setting. The plot sounds nuanced enough that it should keep me interested throughout the whole reading process.

#13

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Seems like a original story made up of relatable tropes with an interesting twist. I think the dynamic of the main characters and their setup is good. I would definitely give it a shot.

#14

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While the topic of this story has been done before and is not unique, it's still a good trope. And when done well can be an exciting yet relaxing read.

#15

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AI analysis (sample data)

Unearth more insights with a detailed poll report, discovering what respondents liked, disliked, and what to do next.

Survey Analysis

Winning Option: Characteristics and Appeal

  • Option B emerged as the preferred brand packaging design, securing 12 out of 15 votes. Respondents frequently highlighted its aesthetic appeal, emphasizing the luxurious and high-quality impression it conveys. The ability to stack packages was a notable practical advantage mentioned by participants.
  • Several respondents appreciated the monochrome color scheme of Option B, which they found less overwhelming compared to more colorful designs. This preference for simplicity suggests that minimalistic designs may resonate well with this group.
  • Additionally, environmental considerations played a role in favoring Option B; some participants noted its reduced plastic usage and recyclability as attractive features.

Key Topics Across Options

  1. Aesthetic Appeal: Across both options, aesthetics were crucial in influencing preferences. Participants often referred to colors and overall design quality when justifying their choices.

  2. Environmental Concerns: Both options had respondents who valued environmentally friendly aspects of packaging. However, while Option A was praised for being reusable and eco-friendly by some, others perceived Option B’s reduced plastic use as more sustainable.

  3. Practicality: Practical elements such as ease of stacking (Option B) or suitability for travel (Option B) were significant factors in decision-making processes.

Hypotheses for Further Testing

  • Investigate whether minimalistic designs consistently outperform colorful ones across different demographic groups or product categories.

  • Explore if environmental messaging on packaging significantly influences consumer preference when compared with other attributes like luxury perception or practicality.

  • Assess how important stacking capability is relative to other functional benefits in various contexts such as home storage versus travel convenience.

These hypotheses can guide further research into understanding deeper consumer motivations behind packaging preferences observed in this survey context.

AI themes (sample data)

Learn what respondents like and dislike about your poll based on sentiments analyzed by our AI.
A

Likes (sample data)

  • Sleek and modern design
  • Large ear cup sizes for comfort
  • Minimalist and streamlined look

Dislikes (sample data)

  • Lack of unique features or standout elements
  • White color may get dirty easily
  • Not as much cushioning as other options
B

Likes (sample data)

  • (Note: There were no positive mentions specific to Option B in the provided survey answers)

Dislikes (sample data)

  • (Note: There were no negative mentions specific to Option B in the provided survey answers)
C

Likes (sample data)

  • Unique and stylish metallic grating design
  • Sturdy and flexible build
  • 'Cool' aesthetic appeal

Dislikes (sample data)

  • 'Weird' or unpleasant cone shape for earmuffs
  • 'Odd' overall appearance with metallic accents
  • (Note: Third negative mention not available from provided survey answers)
D

Likes (sample data)

  • Comfortable and sturdy design
  • Aesthetic appeal, including color options
  • Familiarity with the brand's quality

Dislikes (sample data)

  • Negative perception of the brand logo
  • Smaller ear size perceived as less comfortable
  • Design not preferred compared to others
E

Likes (sample data)

  • Sleek, modern, and professional look
  • Comfortable fit with larger ear sections that cup the ears well
  • Minimalist and clean black aesthetic

Dislikes (sample data)

  • 'Flat' appearance perceived as less comfortable by some
  • 'Bulky' design disliked by a few respondents
  • Narrower piece near headband' not appealing to all users
F

Likes (sample data)

  • 'Cushiony padding' for comfort over long periods of use
  • 'Solid build' making it durable and secure on the head/ears
  • Preferred neutral colors like black for headphones

Dislikes (sample data)

  • 'Large ear covering' may be too big for some users’ preferences
  • 'Separation of controls/buttons' not liked by everyone
  • 'Chrome accent rings on headband' not appealing to all respondents
G

Likes (sample data)

  • Design perceived as high quality and appealing
  • Liked the color, especially the blue
  • Thin padding was appreciated

Dislikes (sample data)

  • Looked flimsy to some respondents
  • Perceived as less sturdy compared to other options
  • Color preference for white or black over blue
H

Likes (sample data)

  • Modern and high-quality appearance with a white design
  • Comfortable padding on headband and ears
  • Sleek and neutral look preferred by many

Dislikes (sample data)

  • 'White' color seen as prone to getting dirty easily
  • 'Large ear cups' might be problematic for glasses wearers over long periods of use
  • 'Sturdy design' could be considered bulky by some users