Excellent political space/military/character adventure
352287
The Dragon Never Sleeps spotlights the dynamics between multiple species and personalities. Varied motivations produce unexpected results to longstanding conflicts. Action, characters, reasoning, mistakes and victories add up to a complex but perhaps inevitable conclusion, unthinkable without character growth, motive and political changes. As the hero of the piece grows weary in a non-ideal victory, imperfect possibilities become realities. An excellent story.
3479326
Really good.  I always enjoy military sci-fi and space opera when the author actually has some idea of the weapons, equipment, and geography that he employs in his story.  A great read for sure and I'm eagerly looking forward to the next story!
1057730
My first encounter with Greg Faccone's work and the Tethered Worlds saga was while searching for projects to produce on ACX, Amazon's audiobook creation network that links together narrators and authors. In preparing to read for Unwelcome Star, several very favorable elements jumped out at me:

1) A meticulous attention to world-building and world coherence
2) Natural interaction between characters
3) Easily recognizable character and plot tropes that seldom feel forced or out of place
4) The harmonious juxtaposition of science fiction and fantasy elements
5) The dramatic and credible portrayal of a massive conflict on a pedestrian scale

In short, it was definitely space opera, but space opera that didn't ring any of the warning bells of cartoonish villains, one-dimensional characters, or over-the-top drama. Top it off with a compelling setting and a very well-developed lore, and the result is a book worth much more than the price of admission for fans of the genre.

Faccone doesn't disappoint. Serving up an epic space drama that is equal parts family drama and galactic war, he paints a struggle that is at once staggeringly vast and arrestingly intimate. Immersed in a vibrant and politically complex cosmos where the author has clearly spent no small number of hours and days, he shares a gripping creative vision that is as much Star Trek as it is Star Wars. And these fruitful sojourns into the universe of Tethered Worlds have produced a reflective, action-driven narrative that is both cerebral and viscerally engaging, supported by a deep moral undercurrent that flows steadily and confidently through the narrative without ever lunging toward the pulpit.

The plot revolves around Jordahk Wilkrest and his family and associates, and though Jordahk's coming-of-age arc is central to the story, Faccone does a nice job of dividing up the narrative between prominent characters on both sides of the conflict. As narratively multi-faceted as a Song of Ice and Fire it is not, but it's also nice not to have to worry (well, presumably) about Jordahk getting killed off at the beginning of the third book and the author spending the remaining chapters intensely fixated on an eminently less interesting and sympathetic sheepherder.

Unwelcome Star is Faccone's debut novel, and though in many ways that serves to render his voice all the more compelling, there are also some negatives to consider. If you look for errors you will find them - precious few and far between, but they are there. As mentioned earlier, I feel the book is most easily classified as space opera -  meticulously and lushly painted, but space opera all the same. If you find yourself laughing snarkily at some of the more dramatic or character development-y moments in anime or JRPGs, you'll surely find yourself smiling sarcastically at times in Tethered Worlds. This is a very earnest book - something I consider to its credit, but not everyone will feel the same.

A corrupt government sharpens its knives beneath the ideological cloak of progress and liberty. Planetside opportunists  eye their world's fraying social fabric hungrily. And a secret society hell-bent on reawakening the mystic powers of old hunts the Wilkrests with relentless patience and precision.

Highly recommended!
1038436
Every now and then a book blows away your suppositions and charges full steam ahead into your imagination. It is going to succeed or die trying. "On Basilisk Station" by David Weber is just such a story and it positively triumphs. I devoured this novel, and the burning question I had upon its conclusion (beyond finding out whether my library stocked the sequel) was, "Why haven't I heard of you before?"

Quick summary: Honor Harrington's first command proves less of a promotion and more of a punishment when she learns that a bigwig in the Royal Manticorian Navy has chosen her ship, the Fearless, to test a fancy new weapons system that actually handicaps her tactical ability during war games. She is eventually "banished" to the unpopular Basilisk Station patrol and given the near impossible task of patrolling the star system's shipping lines and quasi-autonomous planets. Not only that, a neighboring interstellar government has its eyes on Basilisk, the system's natives are restless, the crew is dispirited, and there are powerful politics at play. But, as the official summary says, "the people out to get her have made one mistake. They've made her mad."

Honor Harrington is now my ideal of what a military starship leader should be: smart, competent, patient, and courageous, with the ability to marshal a ship to its full potential. She is neither the crew's dictator nor their best friend, but their commander. The very best point is that neither her gender, nor the gender of the crew, ever comes up as an "issue." This book is probably the first in any genre I have ever read where men and women actually worked together without sexual tension. There is one incident of sexual harassment related as a memory, but it is related without hysterics. Harrington remembers, is human enough to resent, but is also adult enough to have moved on. I can not thank Weber enough for this aspect of the novel.

A word about the story's structure: completely new universes requires an author to explain quite a bit in a short space of time. Weber offers this information in the same straightforward, engaging way he does the rest of the novel. I was continually amazed at how well he revealed the details of his imagined worlds without distracting me from the story. I never once lost interest or became confused, whether the book followed the political machinations of interstellar politics or the tactical complexity of a space battle. The exposition itself became exciting, and that is the mark of a great storyteller.

Finally, many military yarns employ the trope of outnumbered but likeable heroes who save the day in spite of the odds. It's not a bad trope, but in the wrong hands can result in stale, formulaic plots. Harrington and her crew transcend this trope. They may start outclassed, but they work hard to make up the difference (no happy accidents or plucky heroism required). They suffer real losses, not fake ones meant to provide cheap danger. Wonder of wonders, they uphold rather than break the rules to succeed and gain respect. They form partnerships rather than go it alone, and the final battle is a true test of both sides' preparation and skill instead of a contest of personality.

If you want a wonderfully written military space novel, you can't go wrong with "On Basilisk Station." I look forward to reading more about Honor Harrington's naval career, and tip my hat to her talented creator.

Addendum: I forgot to mention that this novel uses very frank language in places. I will say it didn't feel gratuitous considering the people and situations that brought it up (soldiers in battle), but it is something that might ruin the enjoyment of the book for many. Young readers should definitely wait on this one.
4430617
I decided to read this book after looking at lists for some of the best science fiction books to read. I have to say this book did not disappoint. There were several things which surprised me, namely the amount of violence and sexual elements described throughout the novel. However I felt both were used quite effectively to drive home the main themes in the book. The sexual elements help to emphasize the generational differences between the main character, William Mandela, and the other crew members he encounters on various missions in vastly different years throughout his time in the UNEF. On his return from his very first mission, Mandela notices these differences even with his own brother. Over time he even becomes a minority and has to deal with that challenge as well. The amount of violence described at first shocked me, but I grew to appreciate how realistic the description of training and fighting in extremely hostile space environments was. The type of science fiction portrayed is not of the Star Trek/Star Wars variety in terms of space travel but portrays a much more realistic version of space travel which plays a large role in the book.

In conclusion I found this book to be an extremely enjoyable read and the ending to be delightfully satisfying that speaks to the sometimes pointless nature of war. I finished it in one sitting through the span of a day. It deals with issues of generation gaps/cultural norms, censorship/military takeover, and misunderstandings between two different species. The one issue I had that is not relevant to Amazon's book offering is a read a version of the book that seemed to have parts taken out and led to a more disjointed read than it would have been.
4282383
The Two-Space War will be a new experience for most readers. It is science fiction, a training manual for military and police, political commentary, and there is also the poetry!  Of course, this is a lot to pull together, but don't be put off!  The authors do a great job. Above all, the book is a sci-fi adventure combined with a swashbuckling theme in a traditional "battle of ideas."  The diversity of styles affords the reader the opportunity to mark sections and re-read as the mood fits -- training, poetry, or action!  Thanks to Dave Grossman, those with a police or military background will enjoy picking out the names of legendary trainers and accurate tactical lessons. I keep trying to imagine how great this would look as a movie if the special effects for two-space were done properly!
4588093
I just finished reading both books in the series, "Admiral Who" and "Admirals Gambit", and I must say I can't wait for the next book in the series. I had a hard time putting either of these books down until I finished them both.

I'm a bit of a perfectionist. I operate an online Peer-to-Peer critique group for Christian Speculative Fiction authors so mechanics and style is one of the things that I constantly see even when I'm reading for pleasure.

This story has such a bang up plot line, full of nonstop action, and complex plot twists that I hardly noticed the few (IMHO)sub-optimal stylistic choices, grammatical issues and misspellings which were in the text. The mechanics didn't detract from the sheer fun of really getting into the story. Most chapters left me paging to the next somewhat impatiently to see what was going to happen next. My main disappointment is that the author doesn't have the third novel on sale yet.

The Characters were very believable, I found the Main POVs inner doubts and feelings of inferiority easy to identify with and the determined character with which he overcame them to be a trait that I not only empathize with but aspire to personally. I found his "All in" berserk approach to combat and problem solving very engaging. Once again I strongly identified with this character. I feel that the author has portrayed "every man" confronted with and coping with the outrageous slings and arrows of fortune the way I hope that I have/will.

Despite the fact that some of the characters were kind of stock Space Opera types I felt that the way the author treated them made them all very human and real to me. 64 years of life have taught me that the stock "types" are stock (ie. Universal) because that is how real people in the real world act and react. It's very pleasing to see such a person (the hero)actually winning his battles. The reality that each victory brings the next challenge is a truth of life that I've lived through so much that I feel it is an axiom of the human condition. Kudo's to the author for capturing the cycle so well.

When I bought the first of these books I thought it was targeted at the YA audience based on the description in Amazon. IMHO our Youth should read novels like this, adults too. It is fun to read, teaches readers that whole hearted effort is the only way to achieve meaningful success and the fact that those who really achieve greatly are usually those who are in way over their head but keep plugging on.

One theme that I particularly appreciated is the underlying universal truth that in this universe truth, order, harmony and right are only brought to pass by individuals who battle the malign chaos of existence, human corruption and the benighted Murphy with all their strength even thought they feel like they can't win.

Bravo "Luke"
Write on my brother

dave withe

PS. the hero's struggles to understand and get along with his wife remind me of another man that I know very well.
3248704
Excellent writing and characterization - military science fiction at its best.
1856303
Interesting premise. Mysterious hostile aliens attack exploration mission without provocation, thereby initiating a cascade if changes in humanities outlook, doctrines, force composition, and strategy. Strong character development. Particularly enjoyed the "evolution" of the AI characters employed as operating systems for fast attack units. Their growth from "cyber systems" to "fighter jocks" was delightful!
3513038
Five ENGROSSING Stars. Once again military veterans David Sherman and Dan Cragg crank up a winner in "Starfist: Double Jeopardy", the 14th edition of the "Starfist" military science fiction series about an elite Marine unit, the Fleet Initial Strike Team (FIST), which is called on first to battle enemy aliens ("or otherwise") among the stars in the 25th Century. Giving a realistic view of military life and unit morale, mainly from the company to fire team levels, they re-introduce us to the leadership and surviving troops (President Cynthia Chang-Sturdevant, Brigadier Sturgeon, Captain Coronado, Lt Bass, Sgt Kerr, Lance Corporals "Hammer" Schultz, Claypoole, & Doyle, etc.) who are very familiar to series readers. Facing a short turnaround time since the marines' last deployment, the authors take us through barracks life, training, and personal issues, in preparation for the next deployment. Indeed, there are 8 setup chapters covering various planets and story lines, before the marines even load onto Commodore Borland's "Grandar Bay" naval starship sailing for the mysterious wastelands of a planet called Ishtar. With Starfist novels, the journey of the troops from base to battle, and their training in between, is as important as the end result.

As usual, these writers conjure up unique alien lifeforms (introduced in the prelude), conflicting circumstances, and special problems posed to the Lima Company 34th FIST 'grunts'. And the acid-wielding 'Skink' aliens are always on the minds of the military, as the writers give us a hint of future strategic operations in coming novels. Realistic hard-nosed battles, interesting story lines dealing with mercenaries, interpersonal relations, and surprise realizations culminate in multiple payoffs near the end of this superb novel of "double jeopardy" affecting marines in outer space. The final scene may leave you teary-eyed. BTW, there is also a 3-novel Starfist Force Recon series by the authors. "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful), indeed. Five IMAGINATIVE Stars.
2551463
There has been peace for 800 years, but the growing Coalition threatens the Federations tenuous peace. There are whispered rumors, and those paying attention to other dimensions are feeling the growing evil creep nearer. Admiral Ortega knows that he must stop it at all cost, because he knows the man behind it. Roger knows its coming, but is too busy on his own quest to recognize his role. Justin and Austin are only just recognizing that their role is not just those of diplomats, but of key players in the unfolding drama. Will they be able to defeat the encroaching evil or will the prophecies be misread?

Author Metiver has introduced a new universe full of species, politics, and space travel. While there are obvious elements common to sci-fi series (its hard to get away from a federation of planets and some sort of rebel coalition), he does a great job spinning a new tale in a new world with characters that are well plotted and deep. This is book one in the Chalas Peruvas series and it does an excellent job of establishing the backdrop as well as introducing the characters depth in charisma without resorting to long, boring plot exposition narratives. The addition of a dimensional/spirtual/magical element is also quite tantalizing.  I really look forward to reading the next book!
4240611
Excellent space opera in the tradition of Honor Harrington.
4758174
I honestly couldn't put this book down. Marko expertly pulls together all of the threads of his previous novels into a non-stop action filled adventure that doesn't disappoint. Overall the scenes on the Indy are the best, with a level of tension reminiscent of The Hunt for Red October. He's really come into his own with Lines of Departure and this book, Angles of Attack, and presents the plot in a cinematic style that works wonderfully for the gigantic space opera he unfolds.
I really enjoyed the character development that his hero Andrew Grayson undergoes as he's matured from a fresh recruit into a grizzled veteran that understands and accepts the consequences of the life he chooses. The rich tapestry of supporting characters is fantastic as well and help to showcase various aspects of the war.
There are a few minor issues with the novel however... especially concerning a certain method for attacking Lanky ships that was developed in the second book. I often thought, why aren't they using this method to wipe the Lankies out at every opportunity? Marko does hedge against this by saying that the Lankies are hard to track but it seemed like that was tacked on to help him tell the story he wanted to tell, instead of one that would have naturally developed from the conclusion of the second book.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves science fiction. Marko is a great writer, with a fun style, and I look forward to his future work!
3692497
This book was such an enjoyable read  that, after I had finished it, I wished that there were more. Though 900 pages sounds like a lot, I was so immersed in the setting, characters, and story that they went by incredibly fast.

The main action begins when a couple of ordinary humans accidentally become embroiled in an interplanetary war spanning eons of time. They are taken to another planet by a mysterious time traveler.

The natives of the unfamiliar planet have produced an enlightened culture that has managed to mostly move beyond greed and violence, while elevating artistic achievement. There the main characters learn that the peaceful planet is threatened by aggressive humans, a species that, in the future, will take a turn toward indulging their destructive appetites for imperial domination.

I am afraid of giving away too many spoilers, but I want to make a few general observations. The prose is solid. It is clear and direct, yet manages to beautifully convey the setting, which the author knows well. Though the story drove my interest, the evocative imagery alone might have been enough to keep me turning pages.

As for the story, the author manages to weave together many recognizable science fiction and fantasy traditions  including super powers in such a way that the finished product comes across as fresh and thoughtful. Any fan of science fiction or fantasy will find a lot to enjoy here and should definitely check it out.
3749744
This book, Semper Fi, is not only good mil-scifi but is great political Sci-Fi.  Mr. Nuttall's vision of what happens to empires when they become too centralized and out of touch with their citizens is perfect speculative fiction.
I particularly like the technique of using excerpts from a fictional history book written by "Professor Leo Caesius" to start each chapter.  I also enjoyed the plot about how to start a planet wide insurgency with limited resources.  Yes, some of it is predicable, but that is easily overlooked when some real surprise plot twists happen.
It's a fun, fast read on one level, but gives one much to think about.  In other words, GOOD sci-fi!
You will enjoy it.  But I recommend starting with "Empire's Corp" and you will be hooked on the series.
1522736
Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey (a collaboration between Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck) is a fantastic read, an amazing space opera (or as George R.R. Martin's quote says on the cover, "Kickass space opera). This is a novel that has so many elements. A cast of characters, noir mystery, interplanetary politics, battles, and intrigue. In Corey's universe, humanity has colonized the solar system. The Moon, Mars, Vega, Ceres, Jupiter, Titan, and on have human colonies. Mars and Earth do not like each other very much and neither seems to like the outer planets and asteroids. The story is really kicked off with Jim Holden, an XO on a ship that cruises the solar system on long paths to deliver mined ice. He and part of his crew discover a derelict ship. Though they do not know it, that ship is of immense importance.

The other major character is Detective Miller on Ceres. During part of his normal policing activities, he is asked to investigate the disappearance of a missing girl. And this investigation will lead him on a trail that ultimately connects Holden and Miller. Each chapter alternates between Holden's and Miller's viewpoints, and the dichotomy between the two, who each represent a side of the moral compass. Miller methodical, practical, without navet, but self-destructive. Holden is our better angel, our idealist, the righteous man amongst the sin. Yet, both are inflexible in their morality, and each thinks they act morally. Both are more similar than they appear, though, in the end, Holden is our truer hero.

Leviathan Wakes is a fantastic space opera that bends the rules (it is not galaxy-spanning nor does it encompass thousands of years of history), but it holds true to the basic tenets of space opera. It is a large-scale story with a well-thought out but not overly in-your-face setting and history. Yeah, this is "kickass space opera."
3282847
The critical acclaim is warranted for this space epic set in a complex world of feuding houses. I picked it up after finishing A Song of Ice and Fire / Game of Thrones and thoroughly enjoyed it. The first book is tightly focused on a morally ambiguous hero as he leads a guerrilla movement against the ruling powers.  I'm looking forward to exploring more of the world as the series continues. It richly explores themes of power, religion, ecology/sustainability.  Female characters are powerful and complex but tied to gender roles/stereotypes in a way that feels a little dated. Otherwise a very compelling page-turner in a well constructed world.  It has stood the test of time well.