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Citadel Trilogy #1
First Colony
Book One of the Citadel Series
by award-winning author Kevin Tumlinson
It’s been more than a century since humanity escaped the overpopulation of Earth, expanding out among the stars. We’ve faced and overcome war with an alien race. We’ve survived terrorist attacks meant to end colonization. We’ve thrived despite unregulated class distinctions, separating the wealthy from the working class.
What comes next may be the end of it all.
A lone colony of human castaways, led by a former alien enemy, find themselves at the mercy of a saboteur and a plot to end humanity’s unrestricted travel among the stars. This could be the finale of the colonies and the end of a species. Everything depends on how smart — and how forgiving — humanity can actually be.
Praise for "Citadel: First Colony" —
"There was something so fascinating about this story and the cast of characters he put together."
— Leah Petersen, Author of "Fighting Gravity"
"This well written science fiction story will capture your interest on page one and won’t let go until you finish. The characters are mysterious, fascinating, and likable.
—James Chalk, Author of "Meat Market"
"Tumlinson managed to inject quirkiness and humor that was both unexpected and gave the characters even more depth."
— JoAnn Takasaki, Author of "Luau Like a Local: The Easy Way”
by award-winning author Kevin Tumlinson
It’s been more than a century since humanity escaped the overpopulation of Earth, expanding out among the stars. We’ve faced and overcome war with an alien race. We’ve survived terrorist attacks meant to end colonization. We’ve thrived despite unregulated class distinctions, separating the wealthy from the working class.
What comes next may be the end of it all.
A lone colony of human castaways, led by a former alien enemy, find themselves at the mercy of a saboteur and a plot to end humanity’s unrestricted travel among the stars. This could be the finale of the colonies and the end of a species. Everything depends on how smart — and how forgiving — humanity can actually be.
Praise for "Citadel: First Colony" —
"There was something so fascinating about this story and the cast of characters he put together."
— Leah Petersen, Author of "Fighting Gravity"
"This well written science fiction story will capture your interest on page one and won’t let go until you finish. The characters are mysterious, fascinating, and likable.
—James Chalk, Author of "Meat Market"
"Tumlinson managed to inject quirkiness and humor that was both unexpected and gave the characters even more depth."
— JoAnn Takasaki, Author of "Luau Like a Local: The Easy Way”
- GenresScience FictionFiction
322 pages, Nook
First published February 24, 2010
42 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Tumlinson
74 books212 followersKevin Tumlinson is a thriller and speculative fiction author traveling the U.S. with his wife, an RV, a chihuahua named Mini, and a fully-loaded laptop. He writes multi-million-dollar blockbusters that can be read for only a few bucks.
Kevin grew up in Wild Peach Texas—an actual village wedged between the Brazos and San Bernard Rivers, with a population of less than 2,500 people and seemingly not a peach tree within a hundred miles of the place. He has had an eclectic career that includes engineering, teaching, broadcasting and media, and marketing. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards for writing, public speaking, and his work in advertising and marketing.
At the moment, Kevin—along with his wife and his dog—are traveling full-time in an RV, exploring the US as Kevin writes and promotes his books. The inside joke is that they are going on the worlds most far-ranging house hunt. They're only half joking.
Learn more about Kevin and his work on his website, and get one of his best books for FREE when you join his mailing list at kevintumlinson.com
Kevin grew up in Wild Peach Texas—an actual village wedged between the Brazos and San Bernard Rivers, with a population of less than 2,500 people and seemingly not a peach tree within a hundred miles of the place. He has had an eclectic career that includes engineering, teaching, broadcasting and media, and marketing. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards for writing, public speaking, and his work in advertising and marketing.
At the moment, Kevin—along with his wife and his dog—are traveling full-time in an RV, exploring the US as Kevin writes and promotes his books. The inside joke is that they are going on the worlds most far-ranging house hunt. They're only half joking.
Learn more about Kevin and his work on his website, and get one of his best books for FREE when you join his mailing list at kevintumlinson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 17, 2021
I'm always on the lookout for a certain type of science fiction book. One that scratches the right itches. Some of the same itches that are scratched for me by Star Trek. This book scratched all those itches. We have a group of people building a new life on a strange new world. Aliens that are unique and interesting. Some political intrigue. Big twists and turns, and mysteries that are established early on and then paid off satisfactorily.
This was an ensemble story so it's hard to pick out a single favourite character. I found myself sympathising with many of them. Captain Somar, the only alien amongst them. A former enemy of humanity now thrust into command, who must deal with the prejudice and disgruntlement.
The crewmembers, Thomas, Mitch, Reilly and Alan. Billy, who had a very interesting and emotional arc. And a few characters I loved to hate.
Here's a little quote that I really connected with, as I've had to have this conversation with one of my kids, when they are feeling down on themselves for a mistake.
"despite this, you changed your heart. I hold no grudge for what might have happened."
and then later,
"You too are a good man. Though you do not think so now. That is perhaps, part of what makes you good."
Kevin Tumlinson has found much success writing archaeological thrillers, which are also great, but for my sake, I hope he someday turns his pen back to science fiction, because he writes exactly the kind of science fiction that I want to read.
This was an ensemble story so it's hard to pick out a single favourite character. I found myself sympathising with many of them. Captain Somar, the only alien amongst them. A former enemy of humanity now thrust into command, who must deal with the prejudice and disgruntlement.
The crewmembers, Thomas, Mitch, Reilly and Alan. Billy, who had a very interesting and emotional arc. And a few characters I loved to hate.
Here's a little quote that I really connected with, as I've had to have this conversation with one of my kids, when they are feeling down on themselves for a mistake.
"despite this, you changed your heart. I hold no grudge for what might have happened."
and then later,
"You too are a good man. Though you do not think so now. That is perhaps, part of what makes you good."
Kevin Tumlinson has found much success writing archaeological thrillers, which are also great, but for my sake, I hope he someday turns his pen back to science fiction, because he writes exactly the kind of science fiction that I want to read.
August 31, 2014
Kevin Tumlinson had me hooked on Citadel from the very start. This is the first in a trilogy, and I am excited to start the next book. This book was full of intrigue, and it kept me guessing until the end about who the saboteur was. The characters’ behavior in their situation was very realistic, despite that their situation was on an alien planet in the future. I loved the characters in this book. The wise alien, Somar, and the intelligent, perceptive Thomas really made the book for me. The occasional funny lines that pulled a chuckle out of me also helped. Although the book didn’t end on a cliffhanger, the epilogue left me yearning to read the next book. I think this is a book that readers will enjoy because of the characters and the plot, whether they typically read sci/fi or not. I definitely recommend it!
December 26, 2017
Everyone goes to a planet and rather than trying to setup a colony they argue and scheme against each other. It's dumb.
October 22, 2017
Title: Citadel First Colony
Author: Kevin Tumlinson
Publisher: Happy Pants Books
ISBN: 978-1451514636
Buy Link: https://www.kevintumlinson.com/books/
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Citadel Trilogy 1
It’s been more than a century since humanity escaped the overpopulation of Earth, expanding out among the stars. We’ve faced and overcome war with an alien race. We’ve survived terrorist attacks meant to end colonization. We’ve thrived despite unregulated class distinctions, separating the wealthy from the working class.
What comes next may be the end of it all.
A lone colony of human castaways, led by a former alien enemy, find themselves at the mercy of a saboteur and a plot to end humanity’s unrestricted travel among the stars. This could be the finale of the colonies and the end of a species. Everything depends on how smart - and how forgiving - humanity can actually be.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Imagine being awakened from a cryogenic sleep to an emergency that could mean the destruction of everyone on the colony ship. That is what happened to the crew on board the Citadel who were entrusted with the lives of the colonists. Something took them out of their trajected path leaving them with no choice but to land on the nearest habitual world. Things go form bad to worst as the crew are forced to make split second decisions as they struggle to stay alive and that it only the beginning of this incredible saga. Things are not always what they seem as alliances are formed as the crew and colonists fight to begin their lives on a new world.
The numerous intricate subplots and complex characters brought the story to life. I was fascinating how the introduction of one member of an alien race in the crew complement added so much conflict as some of the people distrusted him just because he was different. The futuristic situations and the unknown world held the reader riveted as the story unfolded. I for one can't wait to find out what happens next.
Author: Kevin Tumlinson
Publisher: Happy Pants Books
ISBN: 978-1451514636
Buy Link: https://www.kevintumlinson.com/books/
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Citadel Trilogy 1
It’s been more than a century since humanity escaped the overpopulation of Earth, expanding out among the stars. We’ve faced and overcome war with an alien race. We’ve survived terrorist attacks meant to end colonization. We’ve thrived despite unregulated class distinctions, separating the wealthy from the working class.
What comes next may be the end of it all.
A lone colony of human castaways, led by a former alien enemy, find themselves at the mercy of a saboteur and a plot to end humanity’s unrestricted travel among the stars. This could be the finale of the colonies and the end of a species. Everything depends on how smart - and how forgiving - humanity can actually be.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Imagine being awakened from a cryogenic sleep to an emergency that could mean the destruction of everyone on the colony ship. That is what happened to the crew on board the Citadel who were entrusted with the lives of the colonists. Something took them out of their trajected path leaving them with no choice but to land on the nearest habitual world. Things go form bad to worst as the crew are forced to make split second decisions as they struggle to stay alive and that it only the beginning of this incredible saga. Things are not always what they seem as alliances are formed as the crew and colonists fight to begin their lives on a new world.
The numerous intricate subplots and complex characters brought the story to life. I was fascinating how the introduction of one member of an alien race in the crew complement added so much conflict as some of the people distrusted him just because he was different. The futuristic situations and the unknown world held the reader riveted as the story unfolded. I for one can't wait to find out what happens next.
May 15, 2017
Mitch Garrison (Engineer 1st. Class) was resting in the Blue-Collar pod bay. 1st. Commander Marcos was yelling orders at the Blue-Collar crew.
The White-Collar crew were awakened in the Citadel landing module,
Captain Alonzo ran a very tight & orderly ship. The Earth Colony Fleet set the governing rules.
Captain Somar (Esool) known as an introvert was to take part in the Human-Esool Exchange Program.
John Thomas Paris (White-Collar) wasn’t real sure what to think about Taggart’s leadership abilities.
What became of John Thomas Paris?
Penelope “Penny” Daunder (Miguel/Elizabeth’s daughter, Daunder fortune heir) mother Elizabeth Daunder (wife) was missing.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written sci-fi book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great sci-fi movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Happy Pants Books; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The White-Collar crew were awakened in the Citadel landing module,
Captain Alonzo ran a very tight & orderly ship. The Earth Colony Fleet set the governing rules.
Captain Somar (Esool) known as an introvert was to take part in the Human-Esool Exchange Program.
John Thomas Paris (White-Collar) wasn’t real sure what to think about Taggart’s leadership abilities.
What became of John Thomas Paris?
Penelope “Penny” Daunder (Miguel/Elizabeth’s daughter, Daunder fortune heir) mother Elizabeth Daunder (wife) was missing.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written sci-fi book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great sci-fi movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Happy Pants Books; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
March 28, 2022
For the first 3/4 this was an ordinary story in a science fiction setting.
An "other" in charge. An "asshole" wanting power. So a power struggle.
An unknow saboteur. Off course and no one knows where they are.
"White collars" against "blue collars". Literally. I wish I was joking.
It was a 2* for most of the story. Then it picked up and showed signs of becoming a science fiction story. To K Tumlinson's credit, it is clearly labeled book 1 of 3, so benefit of the doubt, it was just slow getting to the story. Had I not already purchased book 2, I might not have continued. But I did. And I'm happy to say (having already finished book 2), it has become a good science fiction story. Not great, but good. I'm glad I continued. So if you are looking for good science fiction, and find yourself wondering if it is worth continuing this book, this trilogy, it is.
An "other" in charge. An "asshole" wanting power. So a power struggle.
An unknow saboteur. Off course and no one knows where they are.
"White collars" against "blue collars". Literally. I wish I was joking.
It was a 2* for most of the story. Then it picked up and showed signs of becoming a science fiction story. To K Tumlinson's credit, it is clearly labeled book 1 of 3, so benefit of the doubt, it was just slow getting to the story. Had I not already purchased book 2, I might not have continued. But I did. And I'm happy to say (having already finished book 2), it has become a good science fiction story. Not great, but good. I'm glad I continued. So if you are looking for good science fiction, and find yourself wondering if it is worth continuing this book, this trilogy, it is.
June 23, 2023
Moving, Intense, Thrilling Space Adventure
Well into the very distant future that what might be OUR future, Kevin Tumlinson shows us that deep space travel to new homelands might well be both wonderful and terrifying. For sure, the same foibles and prejudices will still be present. In this episode, we see a terrible injustice being righted. Or at least that is the goal. But we also see the devastation that can be part and parcel of good intentions. Does this part of the review seem cryptic? It should, because too much said would be too much of a spoiler. You may suspect the upcoming action. But you might be very wrong. And the hidden surprises might just smack you between the eyes when they reveal themselves.
Well into the very distant future that what might be OUR future, Kevin Tumlinson shows us that deep space travel to new homelands might well be both wonderful and terrifying. For sure, the same foibles and prejudices will still be present. In this episode, we see a terrible injustice being righted. Or at least that is the goal. But we also see the devastation that can be part and parcel of good intentions. Does this part of the review seem cryptic? It should, because too much said would be too much of a spoiler. You may suspect the upcoming action. But you might be very wrong. And the hidden surprises might just smack you between the eyes when they reveal themselves.
January 28, 2020
Interesting take on survival and becoming of one. Tumlinson explores the bravery of a group of people that come together facing extinction because of a ship problem. Very well written, using characters to bring out humanity and the need to save it. Look forward to the next installment of this series.
December 28, 2017
A good book. Colony’s sent to space, clever IT folks, saboteurs - everything you could ever want :) Good 3/5
January 4, 2024
Enough answered questions that I feel like Kevin knows this book needs to be self contained and also enough left unanswered to continue the series.
November 21, 2016
Kevin Tumlinson starts off the Citadel science fiction series with First Colony. Set in the distant future, the people of earth have reached an uneasy truce with an alien race called the Esool. First Colony tells the story of Citadel, an earth ship that crash lands on the wrong planet. In the aftermath, the marooned crew and passengers struggle to survive while also trying to determine the cause of the crash. The ranking survivor is Captain Somar, an Esool participating in an officer exchange in an effort to improve relations between his people and the people of earth. Somar fights racism as he takes command and begins to coordinate the colony’s survival efforts. First Colony features lots of twists and turns, class struggles, and racism. It’s part sci-fi and part thriller.
“If I cannot have what makes me whole, then I will destroy what makes me weak.”
I thought the cast of characters was excellent, but if I had to choose a favorite it would be the Esool, Somar. He provided much needed leadership, struggling to keep the colony united and focused on their survival, while dealing with class rivalries and prejudice. Somar is an old school good guy, a cross between John Wayne and Mr. Spock. He is the type of man that maintains his cool under pressure and isn’t afraid to make the tough decisions. I also liked Thomas and Billy. They were both complex characters, hiding daunting secrets. A criticism I have about many modern books and movies are the trends of making everyone an anti-hero and blurring the lines between good and evil. Tumlinson does a good job doing that with some characters and not with others. He has some legitimate good guys, like Somar, and he also has the ones that keep you guessing. Just when you figure them out, something changes.
Tumlinson expertly balanced sci-fi technobabble with readability in the story. I’m career military; I know how to shoot things and blow shit up. The science in Tumlinson’s book is probably total bravo sierra for all I know, but I don’t care. He did such a great job making it sound good that, as a reader, I am content believing it. It sounded realistic and was easy enough to understand that I didn’t have to start googling things.
I’ve had the e-book version of First Colony on my Kindle for months. However, I’ve also been extremely busy lately and my “to-read” list continues to grow. When I saw that Tumlinson brought it to Audible, I figured this was my chance to spend one of the credits I was holding on to. So one day last month, I listened to the first three hours from the seat of my riding lawn mower. Bryant Sullivan does an excellent job as the narrator. I don’t think Tumlinson could have picked a better guy. I ended up jumping back and forth between Audible and Kindle after that; it’s easier to read on the Kindle than listen to an audio book when my wife is sleeping next to me.
“Honorary! I’m an honorary member of Commander Carrot’s Cartoon Cavalry, but does that make me an animated vegetable?”
I rate Citadel: First Colony a solid five stars. Tumlinson nailed it with this one, and I can’t wait to read or listen to the next in the series. I haven’t been as excited about a sci-fi series since I read the Heechee Saga by Frederik Pohl 25 years ago. This book rekindled (no pun intended) my love of science fiction.
“If I cannot have what makes me whole, then I will destroy what makes me weak.”
I thought the cast of characters was excellent, but if I had to choose a favorite it would be the Esool, Somar. He provided much needed leadership, struggling to keep the colony united and focused on their survival, while dealing with class rivalries and prejudice. Somar is an old school good guy, a cross between John Wayne and Mr. Spock. He is the type of man that maintains his cool under pressure and isn’t afraid to make the tough decisions. I also liked Thomas and Billy. They were both complex characters, hiding daunting secrets. A criticism I have about many modern books and movies are the trends of making everyone an anti-hero and blurring the lines between good and evil. Tumlinson does a good job doing that with some characters and not with others. He has some legitimate good guys, like Somar, and he also has the ones that keep you guessing. Just when you figure them out, something changes.
Tumlinson expertly balanced sci-fi technobabble with readability in the story. I’m career military; I know how to shoot things and blow shit up. The science in Tumlinson’s book is probably total bravo sierra for all I know, but I don’t care. He did such a great job making it sound good that, as a reader, I am content believing it. It sounded realistic and was easy enough to understand that I didn’t have to start googling things.
I’ve had the e-book version of First Colony on my Kindle for months. However, I’ve also been extremely busy lately and my “to-read” list continues to grow. When I saw that Tumlinson brought it to Audible, I figured this was my chance to spend one of the credits I was holding on to. So one day last month, I listened to the first three hours from the seat of my riding lawn mower. Bryant Sullivan does an excellent job as the narrator. I don’t think Tumlinson could have picked a better guy. I ended up jumping back and forth between Audible and Kindle after that; it’s easier to read on the Kindle than listen to an audio book when my wife is sleeping next to me.
“Honorary! I’m an honorary member of Commander Carrot’s Cartoon Cavalry, but does that make me an animated vegetable?”
I rate Citadel: First Colony a solid five stars. Tumlinson nailed it with this one, and I can’t wait to read or listen to the next in the series. I haven’t been as excited about a sci-fi series since I read the Heechee Saga by Frederik Pohl 25 years ago. This book rekindled (no pun intended) my love of science fiction.
July 15, 2016
First off I have to say I do respect the author for writing a somewhat decent book. However I could only rate this book with two stars myself. The science in this scifi book was just extremely bad. I don't mind extrapolating things but this was bad. The beginning with the light rail ship, which had been going at speeds above the speed of light, decelerating from that velocity and crash landing on an unknown planet were just unforgivable faults in the science part. The crash scenarios and everything leading up to it was heavily flawed as well as the science part of the story throughout.
Then what really made the story worse was the extremely one dimensional characterization and social structure. The blues, whites, and rich social structure was hugely simplistic and really would not be that way at all in an advanced society and particularly one that was star faring. The character development was the same way. For the most part a person was either good or evil. The interaction between characters was one dimensional and very dull for the most part. And the alien was basically a human in alien form, nothing really unique other than he was plant based which I also had trouble with from a biological/technical standpoint.
And the ultimate memory wipe and transplant plot seemed just as ridiculous. How did this huge mental push across the miles of ground area that it occurred on not affect everyone and how did it discretely change individuals differently and yet not affect others as well? This type event written that way is simply a plot device that was not thought out logically. Scifi can extrapolate things we do not understand but it should make sense, this did not.
In the end I simply cannot give this book any better than two stars. I'm not sure whether I will read any of the sequels because of this. I wish Mr. Tumlinson luck in the future but was unimpressed with this effort unfortunately.
Then what really made the story worse was the extremely one dimensional characterization and social structure. The blues, whites, and rich social structure was hugely simplistic and really would not be that way at all in an advanced society and particularly one that was star faring. The character development was the same way. For the most part a person was either good or evil. The interaction between characters was one dimensional and very dull for the most part. And the alien was basically a human in alien form, nothing really unique other than he was plant based which I also had trouble with from a biological/technical standpoint.
And the ultimate memory wipe and transplant plot seemed just as ridiculous. How did this huge mental push across the miles of ground area that it occurred on not affect everyone and how did it discretely change individuals differently and yet not affect others as well? This type event written that way is simply a plot device that was not thought out logically. Scifi can extrapolate things we do not understand but it should make sense, this did not.
In the end I simply cannot give this book any better than two stars. I'm not sure whether I will read any of the sequels because of this. I wish Mr. Tumlinson luck in the future but was unimpressed with this effort unfortunately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2015
With a name like First Colony you would think that the story would be around the primary colonization effort of the human race - kinda maybe in this instance.
Humankind has developed a highly technical method of travelling between star systems - but ends up relying on steam punk work arounds to get from the interstellar waypoints to the actual planets. Another old standby (cold sleep) is a critical factor in enabling star travel. Each of these technical events creates a class structure based on three axis - the entitled (rich), intellectual training (white hats) and manual labor (blue hats).
Now - adding in an Interstellar war having just ended between mankind and another race that both have the same environmental requirements for planetary colonization really amps up the plots and sub-plots.
Not giving anything away - having a mix of political intrigue that started a century before this story, the current political issues that are the outcomes from the political issues from the century before, the natural suspicions that arise from a prior enemy now being an ally, the fractionating differences in naturally occurring class structures you end up with an extremely engaging novel. The author has developed many characters that interact believably given the situations that they find themselves in.
I will state that there is a twist that is revealed at the end of the story that looks to really amp it up!
This is a gotta read novel - and the follow-ons in the series too make sure they live up to the promise of this one.
Humankind has developed a highly technical method of travelling between star systems - but ends up relying on steam punk work arounds to get from the interstellar waypoints to the actual planets. Another old standby (cold sleep) is a critical factor in enabling star travel. Each of these technical events creates a class structure based on three axis - the entitled (rich), intellectual training (white hats) and manual labor (blue hats).
Now - adding in an Interstellar war having just ended between mankind and another race that both have the same environmental requirements for planetary colonization really amps up the plots and sub-plots.
Not giving anything away - having a mix of political intrigue that started a century before this story, the current political issues that are the outcomes from the political issues from the century before, the natural suspicions that arise from a prior enemy now being an ally, the fractionating differences in naturally occurring class structures you end up with an extremely engaging novel. The author has developed many characters that interact believably given the situations that they find themselves in.
I will state that there is a twist that is revealed at the end of the story that looks to really amp it up!
This is a gotta read novel - and the follow-ons in the series too make sure they live up to the promise of this one.
October 20, 2011
There was something so fascinating about this story and the cast of characters he put together. It started out with a bang (well, more of a crash) and kept up a very satisfying pace. Kevin didn't skimp on the science without lapsing into physics-class mode. There was even a hint of steampunk in this one which was a really neat twist.
I loved the main characters, especially the Esool captain, with his unexpected abilities and the two who ended up being the main characters of the big reveal at the end. (No spoilers!) There was such a compelling vulnerability and mystery around them.
The author in me couldn't help but notice--and comment on now--some weaknesses in the writing, but I got caught up enough in the story that I didn't care. And when I came to consider them more in depth once the story was finished, I realized that it's the sort of things that most readers won't notice or care about if set within a good story, thus I'm not going to enumerate them here. So there's me being petty, I suppose, for even bringing it up. But I'd rather be honest and mention it than not.
Thoroughly readable, enjoyable, and super-cool book. I recommend it highly.
I loved the main characters, especially the Esool captain, with his unexpected abilities and the two who ended up being the main characters of the big reveal at the end. (No spoilers!) There was such a compelling vulnerability and mystery around them.
The author in me couldn't help but notice--and comment on now--some weaknesses in the writing, but I got caught up enough in the story that I didn't care. And when I came to consider them more in depth once the story was finished, I realized that it's the sort of things that most readers won't notice or care about if set within a good story, thus I'm not going to enumerate them here. So there's me being petty, I suppose, for even bringing it up. But I'd rather be honest and mention it than not.
Thoroughly readable, enjoyable, and super-cool book. I recommend it highly.
Read
January 9, 2015The Citadel Omnibus is a science fiction trilogy that starts out with a bang. The ending of the first two book leaves you in a hurry to read the next, and the ending of the third has a twist that will make you say 'Wow!'
I'm don't read much science fiction and don't have a scientific bent to me, and Citadel is heavy on the science. Rather than being an obstacle, though, Tumlinson presents and explains the science in such an understandable way that I found it very enjoyable.
The characters are well presented, compelling and very likable, it was well-paced, and the narrative never intruded over the story.
The best thing about Citadel is the way Tumlinson skillfully weaved in plot points and dialogue issues that are important today, but did so in a way that the social commentary combines with the science to make it a better story rather than distract the reader.
If more science fiction were like The Citadel I would probably read more of it.
I'm don't read much science fiction and don't have a scientific bent to me, and Citadel is heavy on the science. Rather than being an obstacle, though, Tumlinson presents and explains the science in such an understandable way that I found it very enjoyable.
The characters are well presented, compelling and very likable, it was well-paced, and the narrative never intruded over the story.
The best thing about Citadel is the way Tumlinson skillfully weaved in plot points and dialogue issues that are important today, but did so in a way that the social commentary combines with the science to make it a better story rather than distract the reader.
If more science fiction were like The Citadel I would probably read more of it.
November 10, 2014
I tried this author and I was really pleased with what I have read, not only is he as description as a S. King novel but his imagination was reminiscent of a D. Koontz adventure. There are plenty of intertwined details that are versed in an educated manner that I found awesome. So many times I have tried books that were written in such a way that I was able to read the series in a day. With Mr. Tumlinson I found myself actually reading slower so I could fully appreciate where the adventurous characters were going. I wanted to know what would happen to them and I wasn't disappointed. This was a great series and I actually took four days to read it (the three books, Omnibus via my kindle fire). I hope you enjoy the series as much as I do, the value is great and I think there was maybe two crammed errors that were very minor. As much as I read that is extremely rare to find!
March 18, 2014
An Excellent Action Packed Adventure!
This well written science fiction story will capture your interest on page one and won’t let go until you finish. Be forewarned it’s pretty much of a sure thing that you’ll be purchasing book two. The characters are mysterious, fascinating, and likable. As is true for all good science fiction, hidden behind the fast paced plot are numerous comments on and looks at the important societal issues of today and at universal truths that span the ages. The science and political commentary are carefully woven into the story in such a way that they enhance rather than distract from the wild ride the plot takes you on. Just so you know, I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
This well written science fiction story will capture your interest on page one and won’t let go until you finish. Be forewarned it’s pretty much of a sure thing that you’ll be purchasing book two. The characters are mysterious, fascinating, and likable. As is true for all good science fiction, hidden behind the fast paced plot are numerous comments on and looks at the important societal issues of today and at universal truths that span the ages. The science and political commentary are carefully woven into the story in such a way that they enhance rather than distract from the wild ride the plot takes you on. Just so you know, I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
October 11, 2015
Tumlinson presents a good vision of a future in which humanity has spread to other planets and sucessfuly encountered another sentient race. All is not sweetness and light, however, and there are forces at work that could well upset the delicate equilibrium. Within that milieu, a colony ship is wrecked on a planet other than its original destination, thus finding themselves cut off from the rest of society. And the ranking officer remaining is an alien. The story is one of castaways struggling for survival and the dynamics of how the various groups among them work or fail. I look forward to the remainder of the trilogy.
June 17, 2016
I really enjoyed this! I wasn't so sure about the bouncing POVs, but each section/perspective change is clearly noted, and serves the story well. There's a nice balance of exposition and intrigue throughout. And even though there are several perspectives to get through, each character is shown to have depth and flexibility--even the nastier ones are not without inner conflect.
I look forward to reading the next installment!
I look forward to reading the next installment!
September 2, 2016
Lost in outer space
This is a very good story, the words are so vivid that you can picture the story the author has woven. Being thrown right into the action, kind of took me by surprise, I was not sure what was going on . It needs a prologue, so that you can ease into the story, our at least know what you're coming into. Once you get pass that and realize where you are, you're good. It is a very good story.
This is a very good story, the words are so vivid that you can picture the story the author has woven. Being thrown right into the action, kind of took me by surprise, I was not sure what was going on . It needs a prologue, so that you can ease into the story, our at least know what you're coming into. Once you get pass that and realize where you are, you're good. It is a very good story.
April 24, 2016
First Colony (Citadel Book 1) is the first one in the series . It is a mystery , Sci-Fi futuristic story about a colony of human castaways and the saboteur amongst them. Thomas is perceptive and the alien Somar is very wise.The book does not end on a cliff-hanger but is part of a three book series I was gifted a copy for an honest review barwatts@telus.net
August 23, 2016
Good read looking forward to the next in the series
Solid sci-fi space adventure, good dialog and characters. Story was well paced and moved quickly. Held my interest until the end. Felt like it ended a bit early, more like a chapter ending versus a book ending but not bad enough to ruin the enjoyment.
Solid sci-fi space adventure, good dialog and characters. Story was well paced and moved quickly. Held my interest until the end. Felt like it ended a bit early, more like a chapter ending versus a book ending but not bad enough to ruin the enjoyment.
August 4, 2014
Well written piece of speculative sci-fi for humanity's future. Many small twists and turns to keep you wondering where the story was going to go. In the end, it had an unexpected twist that I absolutely loved! It is worth picking up and not ever putting down.
September 18, 2015
Something completely different to the type of fantasy I normally read. I enjoyed the introduction of the characters, the way the author introduced their history and the way humour was used. Oh and the epilogue, fantastic way to lead me to the next book. Can't wait to start the second instalment.
July 18, 2016
I wasn't truly enthralled at the beginning but as the story and mystery began to develop I couldn't put it down! I found myself going to bed earlier to spend more time reading instead of catching up on DVR! Looking forward to #2.
July 31, 2016
unbelievably good
It amazes me when an author can twist a tale of total surprises and intrigue. Makes me wonder what kind of mind it takes to do that? Brilliant, I would guess. Just as this book is brilliant. It had me hanging on every word. Book 2 here I come!
It amazes me when an author can twist a tale of total surprises and intrigue. Makes me wonder what kind of mind it takes to do that? Brilliant, I would guess. Just as this book is brilliant. It had me hanging on every word. Book 2 here I come!
August 6, 2016
Great story
This is a well written and well thought out theme. The only difficulty I had was at the end of the book. The "transfer" was just a little hard to grasp. Other than that, a fun and creative story.
This is a well written and well thought out theme. The only difficulty I had was at the end of the book. The "transfer" was just a little hard to grasp. Other than that, a fun and creative story.
February 7, 2016
Great beginning to a new series!
I really liked this book. Well written and edited. I will read more of this author's work. I highly recommend.
I really liked this book. Well written and edited. I will read more of this author's work. I highly recommend.
April 30, 2016
A very very very good story. Constant action...twists....adventures....It is a Star Trek like story, but pretty easy to follow. Highly recommend it to readers. I hope to read more by Mr Tumlinson.
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