I picked this book up because my LCS's shippment was delayed and I like Gladiator (cover). I wasn't disappointed. The dialogue was strong, and I was able to pick up on the overall gist of the story dispite owning very few Nova books.
I wish the Nova Corps put up a little better fight against the Imperial Guard, but I understand that they are new.
I think Ryder is a great choice for the new Quasar. He seems to have his work cut out for him, with his discovery at the end of the book. I think I might stick around a while to see how this story pans out.