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Troy Rising #2
Citadel
Of all the hosts of Eurotas the Troias were the most fell. For they were born of Winter.
Between the Solar Array Pumped Laser and Troy, the two trillion ton nickel-iron battlestation created by eccentric billionaire Tyler Vernon, Earth has managed to recapture the Sol system from their Horvarth conquerors and begin entering the galactic milieu.
But when the Rangora Empire rapidly crushes humanity's only ally it becomes clear the war is just beginning. At the heart of nickel iron and starlight are the people — Marines, Navy and civilians — who make Troy a living, breathing, engine of war. Survivors of apocalypse, they know the cost of failure.
If this Troy falls, no one will be left to write the epic.
Between the Solar Array Pumped Laser and Troy, the two trillion ton nickel-iron battlestation created by eccentric billionaire Tyler Vernon, Earth has managed to recapture the Sol system from their Horvarth conquerors and begin entering the galactic milieu.
But when the Rangora Empire rapidly crushes humanity's only ally it becomes clear the war is just beginning. At the heart of nickel iron and starlight are the people — Marines, Navy and civilians — who make Troy a living, breathing, engine of war. Survivors of apocalypse, they know the cost of failure.
If this Troy falls, no one will be left to write the epic.
522 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
172 people are currently reading
1189 people want to read
About the author
John Ringo
101 books1,831 followersJohn Ringo is a prolific author who has written in a wide variety of genres. His early life included a great deal of travel. He visited 23 foreign countries, and attended fourteen different schools. After graduation Ringo enlisted in the US military for four years, after which he studied marine biology.
In 1999 he wrote and published his first novel "A Hymn Before Battle", which proved successful. Since 2000 Ringo has been a full time author.
He has written science fiction, military fiction, and fantasy.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
In 1999 he wrote and published his first novel "A Hymn Before Battle", which proved successful. Since 2000 Ringo has been a full time author.
He has written science fiction, military fiction, and fantasy.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
July 4, 2017
A decent sci-fi story around space and earth's space defense program, highlighted with fairly decent character development. That said, at times the story scatters around like the blown up space junk from a missile. Therefore, not quite worthy of 4-stars. 7 of 10 stars
June 19, 2013
Originally posted at FanLit:
http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
Citadel is the second in John Ringo’s TROY RISING series. The first book, Live Free or Die, had an interesting plot that was totally derailed by John Ringo’s intrusive and ugly political views which seem closer to neo-Nazism than anything else. So why did I read Citadel? Only because the audiobook publisher sent me a free copy and, out of a sense of completion, I wanted to review it for FanLit. I was prepared to hate it.
Fortunately, Tyler Vernon the Nazi is only a secondary character in Citadel. The plot mostly follows two new recruits who are joining Earth’s space defenses on Troy, the hollowed-out asteroid that Vernon built as a battle station. Dana is a pilot who’s got some mad flying skills. Butch is a welder. Interestingly, to me at least, Butch was trained in my hometown on Florida’s “Space Coast,” so Ringo won me over a little when we spent some time there and he accurately portrayed the area.
Most of the story tells of the mundane events of life aboard Troy for Dana and Butch. They spend time welding, flying, swimming, shopping, eating, and getting tattoos. They are likable characters, but they just aren’t very interesting and they don’t even have a good sense of humor to make the dull parts more lively. Things finally pick up when the aliens called the Rangoras decide to make war on the Earth’s allies, the Glatun. Then we actually get to see Troy in action, and that’s kind of cool.
Fortunately, since there is less of Tyler Vernon in this book, there is less of his politics, but it does at times rear its ugly head — jibes at the president and the French, for example, and long discussions of what America’s role in the war should be. There are also several instances of John Ringo’s annoying habit of describing the breast size of every female we meet (usually using the word “stacked”). And then that stupid thing about the blondes in heat. It seems that now blonde women are constantly pregnant because they can’t control themselves. What, they’ve never heard of a condom? There are a few things like this that just make no sense and seem like Ringo’s personal wish fulfillment. I won’t even mention the sister porn. Yuck.
So, overall, Citadel was not as exciting as Live Free or Die, but it toned down the obnoxious politics. The trade-off makes this a less annoying book, but still not a good one. I can’t recommend this series, but if you want to try it, I suggest the audiobooks narrated by Mark Boyett. He does a good job with what he’s given.
http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
Citadel is the second in John Ringo’s TROY RISING series. The first book, Live Free or Die, had an interesting plot that was totally derailed by John Ringo’s intrusive and ugly political views which seem closer to neo-Nazism than anything else. So why did I read Citadel? Only because the audiobook publisher sent me a free copy and, out of a sense of completion, I wanted to review it for FanLit. I was prepared to hate it.
Fortunately, Tyler Vernon the Nazi is only a secondary character in Citadel. The plot mostly follows two new recruits who are joining Earth’s space defenses on Troy, the hollowed-out asteroid that Vernon built as a battle station. Dana is a pilot who’s got some mad flying skills. Butch is a welder. Interestingly, to me at least, Butch was trained in my hometown on Florida’s “Space Coast,” so Ringo won me over a little when we spent some time there and he accurately portrayed the area.
Most of the story tells of the mundane events of life aboard Troy for Dana and Butch. They spend time welding, flying, swimming, shopping, eating, and getting tattoos. They are likable characters, but they just aren’t very interesting and they don’t even have a good sense of humor to make the dull parts more lively. Things finally pick up when the aliens called the Rangoras decide to make war on the Earth’s allies, the Glatun. Then we actually get to see Troy in action, and that’s kind of cool.
Fortunately, since there is less of Tyler Vernon in this book, there is less of his politics, but it does at times rear its ugly head — jibes at the president and the French, for example, and long discussions of what America’s role in the war should be. There are also several instances of John Ringo’s annoying habit of describing the breast size of every female we meet (usually using the word “stacked”). And then that stupid thing about the blondes in heat. It seems that now blonde women are constantly pregnant because they can’t control themselves. What, they’ve never heard of a condom? There are a few things like this that just make no sense and seem like Ringo’s personal wish fulfillment. I won’t even mention the sister porn. Yuck.
So, overall, Citadel was not as exciting as Live Free or Die, but it toned down the obnoxious politics. The trade-off makes this a less annoying book, but still not a good one. I can’t recommend this series, but if you want to try it, I suggest the audiobooks narrated by Mark Boyett. He does a good job with what he’s given.
March 23, 2011
Second in the military sci-fi series, Troy Rising, Citadel continues the buildup of the battlemoon, Troy. It won its first battle against the Horvath, now we’ll find out how well it can defend Earth against the Rangorans.
I do love Vernon Tyler. He’s the kind of multibillionaire the world wants. More concerned with defending Earth and protecting its people than the bottom line, he still becomes mega-ultra-rich---so take that corporate America! I just love his end-runs around the Establishment…too funny. And so satisfying.
Ringo writes with such a gleeful hand! Even in the midst of all the carnage, he gives you something to laugh about or at whether he’s poking fun at the military power structure, corporate greed, or political idiocy. Part of the fun is in his creation of a completely different alien culture and then using it to contrast with our “stupid” behavior. A behavior that sees us win! In between the technical debates over computer tech or weaponry, he creates everyday characters you want to meet. I do love the drama he stirs up amongst them! It’s so real!
I do not get the title however. Other than it’s the name of a military establishment, I just can’t find its relevance to the story.
I eagerly await Hot Gate’s publication!
I do love Vernon Tyler. He’s the kind of multibillionaire the world wants. More concerned with defending Earth and protecting its people than the bottom line, he still becomes mega-ultra-rich---so take that corporate America! I just love his end-runs around the Establishment…too funny. And so satisfying.
Ringo writes with such a gleeful hand! Even in the midst of all the carnage, he gives you something to laugh about or at whether he’s poking fun at the military power structure, corporate greed, or political idiocy. Part of the fun is in his creation of a completely different alien culture and then using it to contrast with our “stupid” behavior. A behavior that sees us win! In between the technical debates over computer tech or weaponry, he creates everyday characters you want to meet. I do love the drama he stirs up amongst them! It’s so real!
I do not get the title however. Other than it’s the name of a military establishment, I just can’t find its relevance to the story.
I eagerly await Hot Gate’s publication!
October 15, 2022
2018 reread: A really good story, in a very good series.
November 3, 2018
Though I don't usually go much for the military branch of scifi, I loved the first instalment "Live Free or Die" of this series very much. This second edition, however, got into politics that were at times a bit harsh for my taste. Nonetheless, all the new and previous characters were well executed and the energetic momentum and action scenes were on par with the original first instalment - as well as the long drawn out engineering lectures - those I can put up with for a while as it counts as schooling. The story continues to have this updated yet golden age scifi sense of wonder styling that I love so much. Big ideas executed really quickly. We humans depicted as surprisingly incredible underestimated species among the known sentient creatures of the universe after first contact.
Overall, the book was perfectly fine, if not a bit tedious at times.
Overall, the book was perfectly fine, if not a bit tedious at times.
May 18, 2015
Not too long ago, I reviewed a novel by John Ringo rather harshly. It deserved it. But I'm crazy-happy to tell you that his latest, Citadel, is a rockin', rollin' good read. It gave me several hours of reading bliss, and you can't hardly ask more than that. For those of you who want hard SF with all the nuts and bolts, this is your stuff. Those of you who crave authentic feeling military flavor will be happy, too. Ringo's books frequently draw on his military background and his battle scenes give you that "No shit, there I was---" feeling. This sequel to Live Free Or Die, (also a pleasure to read) is proof that Ringo can deliver the goods. The viewpoint characters are believable, the action is fast and the balance of action, description and dialog is just right. The plot is a new dance to old "aliens invading" tune, and that boy sure can Can-can. He tap-dances his readers right past some pretty dazzling technology and into a Space Opera starring a Death Star style Asteroid base and its defenders preparing a last ditch defense of humanity's home. I don't want to spoil the pleasures of the plot for you, but I have to share my pleasure that somebody still believes that ordinary people can stubbornly work their way over, under around and through obstacles to achieve amazing things. So, you go, Mr Ringo! I understand there will be a third book in this series and this little fat lady is ready to pony up the cash.
November 16, 2010
This is more like the good, early John Ringo before he would go on multi-page discourses on the benefits of sadistic sex with 14 year olds (they had been brutalized, so it was OK) or on the wisdom of the Busch Cheney doctrine (we had been brutalized, so it was OK). Instead he takes the conflict down to a more human and approachable level and keeps the politics down to a minimum. He even brings himself to have a character says something nice about the Democrats. Other than writing himself into a hole where battles are so one sided he has to use italics to describe how big numbers are, I enjoyed this book very much.
March 26, 2012
Mediocre science fiction wrapped in American Republican sloganeering, with a nice bit of misogyny and mild racism mixed in.
May 24, 2013
In Citadel Ringo takes us down from the executive level to the grunt level.
This is very good as Live Free or Die turned into a long executive meeting towards the end.
The right wing politics are still here, and they can be irritating because there is a clear ideology that is in the right and others that are set up as straw men to be wrong.
Tyler Vernon reminds me of the heiress in Peter F. Hamilton's Greg Mandel books, where a benevolent super rich industrialist guides humanity towards a brighter future.
Things are going well only because the author made the super rich king of tech a benevolent father figure. He could just as well have been a murderous psychopath.
In any case, Citadel is a fun read, about a humanity fighting for it's life in a hostile universe and winning. I'm enjoying myself and will continue to the next book the the trilogy.
This is very good as Live Free or Die turned into a long executive meeting towards the end.
The right wing politics are still here, and they can be irritating because there is a clear ideology that is in the right and others that are set up as straw men to be wrong.
Tyler Vernon reminds me of the heiress in Peter F. Hamilton's Greg Mandel books, where a benevolent super rich industrialist guides humanity towards a brighter future.
Things are going well only because the author made the super rich king of tech a benevolent father figure. He could just as well have been a murderous psychopath.
In any case, Citadel is a fun read, about a humanity fighting for it's life in a hostile universe and winning. I'm enjoying myself and will continue to the next book the the trilogy.
May 10, 2020
A sequel better than book 1? Who knew. After the initial necessary-but-slow part where we’re introduced to a host of new characters, those characters are far more interesting then the ones surrounding Tyler Vernon in the first book. Indeed, Vernon fades into the curtains a bit while the newbies strut their stuff.
In NCO Dana “Comet” Patrick, Ringo has created one of the best female SF Space Opera heroes. She’s also the kind of woman you’d want to have one, one only, drink with. Don’t be on the other team when they play what appears to be a combination of zero-gravity squash and hockey.
Book two is a Space Opera actually in space. When Earth must again be saved, Vernon reappears. It’s all good
In NCO Dana “Comet” Patrick, Ringo has created one of the best female SF Space Opera heroes. She’s also the kind of woman you’d want to have one, one only, drink with. Don’t be on the other team when they play what appears to be a combination of zero-gravity squash and hockey.
Book two is a Space Opera actually in space. When Earth must again be saved, Vernon reappears. It’s all good
June 23, 2023
John Ringo truly has some great ideas in his stories...but some portions of his books are truly boring.
What I really liked about this book was the political and business themes, as well as the character development. What didn't work for me was the hyper focus on engineering and piloting issues, as well as the action scenes.
The political discussions were really interesting in the book. I loved seeing how earth's leaders argued with each other and also worked together, and it shows a unique society where the nations of the world haven't combined into a unitary government like in many Sci-Fi stories, but rather the governments sometimes work together and sometimes have different objectives. I also really liked the difficulties of building such a big battle station and manning it and the perspectives the book showed from zillionares like Tyler Vernon down to pilots like Dana and engineers like Butch. Sadly, these themes weren't as focused as they could have been.
The character development was pretty good, although not stellar in the book. Part of the issue is Tyler Vernon doesn't show up until about 150 pages in, and he was the anchor for book 1. The new characters are very interesting, Dana and Butch have basically separate storylines that occassionally come together. They were interesting characters, but weren't able to fully develop.
The biggest problem with this book is the hyper focus on engineering and piloting. I'm certain that there is an audience for this type of thing, but the story takes a back seat for a majority of this book in favor of the descriptions of the ships and battle stations and the engineering and piloting problems they create. I think this book could have easily have been cut by 200 or more pages, and the key story would have been fine. Mr. Ringo may think that this level of detail is needed for credibility as harder sci-fi, but it would have been much better without.
The action scenes are so frentically written that it was hard to follow at times. Some Military Sci-Fi writers handle this well, and some don't. Sadly, it just doesn't work well here.
Overall, I feel very mixed about this book. As mentioned before, when the characters, plot, and themes of the book are in the forefront, the book is really highly entertaining! It simply isn't the forefront the majority of the time, so the book has large swaths of boring sections. Overall, a 5.5 out of 10. Sorry I didn't love this one, but hopefully I'll enjoy "The Hot Gate" and other John Ringo books.
What I really liked about this book was the political and business themes, as well as the character development. What didn't work for me was the hyper focus on engineering and piloting issues, as well as the action scenes.
The political discussions were really interesting in the book. I loved seeing how earth's leaders argued with each other and also worked together, and it shows a unique society where the nations of the world haven't combined into a unitary government like in many Sci-Fi stories, but rather the governments sometimes work together and sometimes have different objectives. I also really liked the difficulties of building such a big battle station and manning it and the perspectives the book showed from zillionares like Tyler Vernon down to pilots like Dana and engineers like Butch. Sadly, these themes weren't as focused as they could have been.
The character development was pretty good, although not stellar in the book. Part of the issue is Tyler Vernon doesn't show up until about 150 pages in, and he was the anchor for book 1. The new characters are very interesting, Dana and Butch have basically separate storylines that occassionally come together. They were interesting characters, but weren't able to fully develop.
The biggest problem with this book is the hyper focus on engineering and piloting. I'm certain that there is an audience for this type of thing, but the story takes a back seat for a majority of this book in favor of the descriptions of the ships and battle stations and the engineering and piloting problems they create. I think this book could have easily have been cut by 200 or more pages, and the key story would have been fine. Mr. Ringo may think that this level of detail is needed for credibility as harder sci-fi, but it would have been much better without.
The action scenes are so frentically written that it was hard to follow at times. Some Military Sci-Fi writers handle this well, and some don't. Sadly, it just doesn't work well here.
Overall, I feel very mixed about this book. As mentioned before, when the characters, plot, and themes of the book are in the forefront, the book is really highly entertaining! It simply isn't the forefront the majority of the time, so the book has large swaths of boring sections. Overall, a 5.5 out of 10. Sorry I didn't love this one, but hopefully I'll enjoy "The Hot Gate" and other John Ringo books.
May 30, 2011
So I peered into the Bag o’ Library Books and noticed the new John Ringo that I’d passed up a few minutes before. I looked at my spouse: “You got the John Ringo?”
“Sure,” he said. “Why not?”
“I’ve read some of his stuff. It has … explosions.”
He laughed, and I laughed, and later on I read the book, because sometimes explosions are just what a person’s in the mood for.
Actually, you have to wait a while for the explosions in this one, but they do turn up. This book is a big chewy lump of Golden Age style military SF, with the added bonus of modern gender roles.
Squid-like hostile aliens? Check.
High-tech friendly/neutral aliens? Check. (I think these guys are furry, but I’m not sure; Ringo forgot to describe them for those of us arriving late to the party.)
Lizard-like hostile aliens? Check.
Key role played by a major techno-entrepreneur? Check.
U.S.A. leads the way? Check.
Major world cities bombed into oblivion? Check. (Actually, it seems that most of this happened in the first volume, called … wait for it … Live Free or Die, but there is some).
Imported alien technology including artificial gravity, working artificial intelligence, fabricators, and instantaneous travel-gates? Check, check, check, check.
Humans adapt to and improve on all this incredibly (from alien perspective) fast? Check.
Gigantic battle station built into an asteroid? Check.
Human society incomprehensible to aliens? Check.
Oh, and I almost forgot the huge solar mining/defense system. Heh.
Mostly, the story follows the rising careers of (1) a brand-new (and highly talented) female Navy engineer/pilot, and (2) a brand-new (and highly talented) male space construction worker. For plot-following purposes, there are jumps to the points of view of the lizardly aliens, the technological tycoon, and the President of the US.
If you’ve been reading SF for longer than five years, you have read this book before – possibly several times. This iteration is pretty fun, though. And there’s noticeably more room for characters in this one, than in some of Ringo’s other work that I’ve read.
I have one complaint about the worldbuilding, though. Apparently one of the things that happened during or before Live Free or Die was a series of plagues inflicted on the Earth by the enemy. One of them, either deliberately or as an unanticipated side effect, apparently has the effect of revving up female libido to at least equivalent to that of hormonally-afflicted teenage males. For some reason, it appears that birth control doesn’t work on them any more, either (unless that’s an oversight by the author … I don’t know, the explanation’s in the earlier book, it seems). This is seriously weird, and I’m baffled as to why the author thought it was a good idea. [ETA: Now that I've read Live Free or Die, it makes sense from the enemy's twisted point of view.]
ALSO, this affliction, and the resultant permanent state of pregnancy/childrearing, appears to be strongly biased toward blonde white women. So where, I want to know, are all the brown and black American women who would be moving into the vacuum? All we seem to see are white women who are “of course” pregnant, and white women who are in the military and have had the disease cured.
And why hasn’t the disease been cured across the whole population, I’d like to know? They can build all this marvelous tech but can’t clean up the genome of the population? Maybe that’s all in the first book, but it still doesn’t explain why after 17 years the Navy and civilian sides are not crammed with those black and brown women. [ETA: Yes, the shortage of cure is explained in the first book; they're working on it, but it takes time. Still no explanation for the main problem, though.]
But, that aside, it’s a good old-fashioned space navy romp, and there are non-white characters; just not any major point-of-view ones. And not enough female ones.
“Sure,” he said. “Why not?”
“I’ve read some of his stuff. It has … explosions.”
He laughed, and I laughed, and later on I read the book, because sometimes explosions are just what a person’s in the mood for.
Actually, you have to wait a while for the explosions in this one, but they do turn up. This book is a big chewy lump of Golden Age style military SF, with the added bonus of modern gender roles.
Squid-like hostile aliens? Check.
High-tech friendly/neutral aliens? Check. (I think these guys are furry, but I’m not sure; Ringo forgot to describe them for those of us arriving late to the party.)
Lizard-like hostile aliens? Check.
Key role played by a major techno-entrepreneur? Check.
U.S.A. leads the way? Check.
Major world cities bombed into oblivion? Check. (Actually, it seems that most of this happened in the first volume, called … wait for it … Live Free or Die, but there is some).
Imported alien technology including artificial gravity, working artificial intelligence, fabricators, and instantaneous travel-gates? Check, check, check, check.
Humans adapt to and improve on all this incredibly (from alien perspective) fast? Check.
Gigantic battle station built into an asteroid? Check.
Human society incomprehensible to aliens? Check.
Oh, and I almost forgot the huge solar mining/defense system. Heh.
Mostly, the story follows the rising careers of (1) a brand-new (and highly talented) female Navy engineer/pilot, and (2) a brand-new (and highly talented) male space construction worker. For plot-following purposes, there are jumps to the points of view of the lizardly aliens, the technological tycoon, and the President of the US.
If you’ve been reading SF for longer than five years, you have read this book before – possibly several times. This iteration is pretty fun, though. And there’s noticeably more room for characters in this one, than in some of Ringo’s other work that I’ve read.
I have one complaint about the worldbuilding, though. Apparently one of the things that happened during or before Live Free or Die was a series of plagues inflicted on the Earth by the enemy. One of them, either deliberately or as an unanticipated side effect, apparently has the effect of revving up female libido to at least equivalent to that of hormonally-afflicted teenage males. For some reason, it appears that birth control doesn’t work on them any more, either (unless that’s an oversight by the author … I don’t know, the explanation’s in the earlier book, it seems). This is seriously weird, and I’m baffled as to why the author thought it was a good idea. [ETA: Now that I've read Live Free or Die, it makes sense from the enemy's twisted point of view.]
ALSO, this affliction, and the resultant permanent state of pregnancy/childrearing, appears to be strongly biased toward blonde white women. So where, I want to know, are all the brown and black American women who would be moving into the vacuum? All we seem to see are white women who are “of course” pregnant, and white women who are in the military and have had the disease cured.
And why hasn’t the disease been cured across the whole population, I’d like to know? They can build all this marvelous tech but can’t clean up the genome of the population? Maybe that’s all in the first book, but it still doesn’t explain why after 17 years the Navy and civilian sides are not crammed with those black and brown women. [ETA: Yes, the shortage of cure is explained in the first book; they're working on it, but it takes time. Still no explanation for the main problem, though.]
But, that aside, it’s a good old-fashioned space navy romp, and there are non-white characters; just not any major point-of-view ones. And not enough female ones.
September 10, 2019
My Rating Scale:
1 Star - Horrible book, It was so bad I stopped reading it. I have not read the whole book and wont
2 Star - Bad book, I forced myself to finish it and do NOT recommend. I can't believe I read it once
3 Star - Average book, Was entertaining but nothing special. No plans to ever re-read
4 Star - Good Book, Was a really good book and I would recommend. I am Likely to re-read this book
5 Star - GREAT book, A great story and well written. I can't wait for the next book. I Will Re-Read this one or more times.
Times Read: 5
One of the better and more interesting stories about alien contact and space flight. Ringo does a good job of telling you a story that you can get into. The main character is excellent and the aliens are interesting. I really enjoyed this story.
Characters - The main character is developed superbly. I really liked the main character. I also liked how the aliens were developed. Very good characters.
Story - This was a good story that kept you interested. It had some great ideas and strategies. I was sorry the story had to end.
Overall - A good book. I would recommend this book and the other books in this series. Read them in order for the best enjoyment.
Update 2nd time through - I am very close to changing this series to 5 stars. It is so close. I enjoyed these books even more the 2nd time. I laughed out loud multiple times (even knowing what was coming). These are very good books.
1 Star - Horrible book, It was so bad I stopped reading it. I have not read the whole book and wont
2 Star - Bad book, I forced myself to finish it and do NOT recommend. I can't believe I read it once
3 Star - Average book, Was entertaining but nothing special. No plans to ever re-read
4 Star - Good Book, Was a really good book and I would recommend. I am Likely to re-read this book
5 Star - GREAT book, A great story and well written. I can't wait for the next book. I Will Re-Read this one or more times.
Times Read: 5
One of the better and more interesting stories about alien contact and space flight. Ringo does a good job of telling you a story that you can get into. The main character is excellent and the aliens are interesting. I really enjoyed this story.
Characters - The main character is developed superbly. I really liked the main character. I also liked how the aliens were developed. Very good characters.
Story - This was a good story that kept you interested. It had some great ideas and strategies. I was sorry the story had to end.
Overall - A good book. I would recommend this book and the other books in this series. Read them in order for the best enjoyment.
Update 2nd time through - I am very close to changing this series to 5 stars. It is so close. I enjoyed these books even more the 2nd time. I laughed out loud multiple times (even knowing what was coming). These are very good books.
July 4, 2017
Enjoyed the Book! A whole new set of characters are being devolped you've got Dana "Comet" Parker who signed on as an engineer and ended up being a shuttle pilot out of necessity and "Butch" Allen a space vaccum welder, beside the multi-billionare Vernon Tyler, the Glatuns and Rangora/Horvath.
So Troy the megla huge astroid/space ship is guarding the "The Gate" when the Horvath envades Earth's space and bombards Earth again. The Horvath are surprised when they are beaten and destroyed by the SAPL and sent to live in the destroyed city of L.A. which resembles their home planet.
Rangoraian trust no one including each other, they can't believe the earthlings have beaten them and plan another attach. Meanwhile Tyler has decided the build another astroid/space ship called Thermopylae, which is a good thing because the Rangora/Horvath alliance has decided to take over the Glatuns leaving Earth without an ally.
When Tyler learns of this overthrow he knows there will be much larger ships entering Earth's space and it is decided the Troy will "move" through "The Gate" to meet them.
So Troy the megla huge astroid/space ship is guarding the "The Gate" when the Horvath envades Earth's space and bombards Earth again. The Horvath are surprised when they are beaten and destroyed by the SAPL and sent to live in the destroyed city of L.A. which resembles their home planet.
Rangoraian trust no one including each other, they can't believe the earthlings have beaten them and plan another attach. Meanwhile Tyler has decided the build another astroid/space ship called Thermopylae, which is a good thing because the Rangora/Horvath alliance has decided to take over the Glatuns leaving Earth without an ally.
When Tyler learns of this overthrow he knows there will be much larger ships entering Earth's space and it is decided the Troy will "move" through "The Gate" to meet them.
December 1, 2021
In Citadel, Ringo leaves Tyler Vernon behind to follow two new people (a military pilot and an orbital miner working for Vernon’s company) through the last part of the first book and on to new problems in the second book. The Horvath and their allies still want the earth back and are willing to bomb humanity into extinction to get it.
Ringo plays a lot with the clash of cultures as humans attempt to get themselves united for the ongoing war while also trying to understand the alien races it is struggling against. The result is a fascinating blend of action and intrigue. One of the best parts of the book is from the POV of a group of alien military planners who are trying to understand what humans are capable of as they plot to conquer our system. So even while the humans are winning, we can see worse problems on the horizon.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
Ringo plays a lot with the clash of cultures as humans attempt to get themselves united for the ongoing war while also trying to understand the alien races it is struggling against. The result is a fascinating blend of action and intrigue. One of the best parts of the book is from the POV of a group of alien military planners who are trying to understand what humans are capable of as they plot to conquer our system. So even while the humans are winning, we can see worse problems on the horizon.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
February 15, 2018
I really like reading Ringo, and this is a fitting sequel to Live Free or Die. Not very serious, but engaging and fun, and it had me laughing out loud.
December 31, 2023
Citadel is the 2nd book in the Troy Rising series, which follows the human resistance against alien invaders in the solar system. The first book, “Live Free or Die,” introduced Tyler Vernon, an eccentric billionaire who used his wealth and ingenuity to create a massive battlestation named Troy, capable of defending Earth from the Horvath, a ruthless alien race that demanded tribute from humanity. In Citadel, the focus shifts to a new set of characters, mainly the crew of the Thermopylae, a messenger ship that delivers vital information and supplies across the solar system. The Thermopylae is commanded by Dana Parker, a former NASA astronaut who has to deal with the dangers and politics of the new interplanetary war. Meanwhile, the Horvath are not the only threat to humanity, as a new and more powerful alien empire, the Rangora, decides to attack Earth's only ally, the Glatun, and then set their sights on the human race.
Citadel is a fast-paced and action-packed novel that delivers on the promise of the first book. John Ringo's writing is engaging and humorous, blending hard science fiction with military fiction and space opera. He creates a believable and detailed world, where humans have to adapt to the new realities of space warfare and alien diplomacy. He also explores the themes of freedom, sacrifice, and heroism, as the characters face impossible odds and make tough choices. The book is full of thrilling battles, clever strategies, and surprising twists, as well as some touching moments of friendship and romance.
The audiobook is narrated by Mark Boyett, who does a superb job of bringing the story and the characters to life. He has a clear and pleasant voice, and he uses different accents and tones to distinguish the various characters. He also conveys the emotions and personalities of the characters, as well as the tension and excitement of the scenes. He makes the listening experience enjoyable and immersive, and he captures the spirit and tone of the book.
Citadel is a highly entertaining and satisfying sequel that expands and enriches the Troy Rising universe. It is a must-read for fans of the series, and for anyone who enjoys science fiction, military fiction, and space opera.
Citadel is a fast-paced and action-packed novel that delivers on the promise of the first book. John Ringo's writing is engaging and humorous, blending hard science fiction with military fiction and space opera. He creates a believable and detailed world, where humans have to adapt to the new realities of space warfare and alien diplomacy. He also explores the themes of freedom, sacrifice, and heroism, as the characters face impossible odds and make tough choices. The book is full of thrilling battles, clever strategies, and surprising twists, as well as some touching moments of friendship and romance.
The audiobook is narrated by Mark Boyett, who does a superb job of bringing the story and the characters to life. He has a clear and pleasant voice, and he uses different accents and tones to distinguish the various characters. He also conveys the emotions and personalities of the characters, as well as the tension and excitement of the scenes. He makes the listening experience enjoyable and immersive, and he captures the spirit and tone of the book.
Citadel is a highly entertaining and satisfying sequel that expands and enriches the Troy Rising universe. It is a must-read for fans of the series, and for anyone who enjoys science fiction, military fiction, and space opera.
December 12, 2017
Citadel follows up Live Free Or Die with the basic outlines of the universe set up. Humanity is now a minor power, cut off from their galactic patrons by an expansionist empire. Now humanity has to race the clock to get their defenses up before a major invasion fleet comes through.
Our viewpoint characters are Butch, a space welder, and Dana, a shuttle pilot. These is a very guts eye look at mega-scale space construction, as they get the asteroid battlestation Troy turned into a warship. I'll admit, I cackled gleefully when they installed an Orion drive to send the Troy on offense in the final chapter. The bad aliens are delightfully hubristic, the tech big and glossy. Tyler Vernor shows up in a few places to play benevolent overlord, but this is at its heart a blue collar space action adventure.
That said, there's still a lot of Ringo weirdness. Not just the odd jabs at liberals, but stuff like a plague that makes blond women super fertile, or the "hard choice" to doom thousands of third-world contract employees to deaths in space because getting salvage in under the gun means cutting safety regs. And the basic problem of the setting, that Troy is so powerful that even kilometer-long dreadnoughts can barely scratch it, undercut the tension of the battles.
Our viewpoint characters are Butch, a space welder, and Dana, a shuttle pilot. These is a very guts eye look at mega-scale space construction, as they get the asteroid battlestation Troy turned into a warship. I'll admit, I cackled gleefully when they installed an Orion drive to send the Troy on offense in the final chapter. The bad aliens are delightfully hubristic, the tech big and glossy. Tyler Vernor shows up in a few places to play benevolent overlord, but this is at its heart a blue collar space action adventure.
That said, there's still a lot of Ringo weirdness. Not just the odd jabs at liberals, but stuff like a plague that makes blond women super fertile, or the "hard choice" to doom thousands of third-world contract employees to deaths in space because getting salvage in under the gun means cutting safety regs. And the basic problem of the setting, that Troy is so powerful that even kilometer-long dreadnoughts can barely scratch it, undercut the tension of the battles.
November 13, 2023
Whoa!
John Dingo totally aced this series! It may have some scientific exaggeration in it. But nothing that may not turn out true some day.
The battles, the people, the feelings it evokes? Just awesome !!
Thank you
John Dingo totally aced this series! It may have some scientific exaggeration in it. But nothing that may not turn out true some day.
The battles, the people, the feelings it evokes? Just awesome !!
Thank you
August 2, 2024
�� Introduction:
Alright, pack, let’s dive into the cosmic fray with *Citadel*, the second installment in John Ringo’s Troy Rising series. This book first hit the shelves in January 2011, bringing us more of that juicy military sci-fi goodness, dripping with space opera vibes and just a touch of Ringo’s signature libertarian spice. This time, we’re shifting gears from the scrappy underdog story of *Live Free or Die* to the sprawling, star-studded battlefield of interstellar war. If you thought the first book was a wild ride, strap in, because this one’s a whole new level of starship-fueled chaos! 🚀✨
🐺 Plot Summary:
So, here’s the deal: Earth is no longer the underdog, but we’re still far from the top of the galactic food chain. After Tyler Vernon and his Troy project sent the Horvath packing, humanity’s got a bit of breathing room. But before we can even catch our breath, the universe throws another curveball our way in the form of the Rangora Empire—an alien powerhouse that’s got a serious beef with our allies, the Glatun.
Citadel shifts focus from Vernon to the day-to-day lives of those who now live and work on Troy, the massive battle station that’s humanity’s best shot at holding the line against these new alien threats. We meet a host of new characters—Dana “Comet” Parker, a badass pilot with mad flying skills, and Butch Allen, a welder with more guts than most. The book takes us deep into the trenches of space warfare, from the mundane tasks of life on Troy to the adrenaline-pumping chaos of battle.
As the Rangora begin their assault, the stakes skyrocket. The book’s a slow burn at first, laying the groundwork with detailed descriptions of the characters' lives, but once the war kicks off, it’s all hands on deck in a fight for survival.
🐺 The Author:
John Ringo’s back at it, swinging for the fences with his blend of military expertise and hardcore sci-fi. He’s a prolific author, known for his sharp wit, his deep dives into military tactics, and his not-so-subtle political commentary. With *Citadel*, Ringo doubles down on his strengths, delivering a book that’s heavy on action and tech, with just enough character development to keep you hooked.
Ringo’s been in the game for a while, and his experience shows. He’s got a knack for creating immersive worlds where the stakes are always high, and Citadel is no exception. Whether you’re a fan of his libertarian leanings or not, there’s no denying that Ringo knows how to tell a gripping story.
🐺 Characters:
Time to talk characters—because what’s a story without a few good packmates to root for?
- Dana “Comet” Parker: Dana’s a standout, bringing some much-needed grit and determination to the table. She’s a pilot who’s seen it all, and she’s not afraid to dive headfirst into the fray. Her character arc is one of the highlights of the book, as she navigates the challenges of life on Troy while proving herself in the heat of battle. 🛫🔥
- Butch Allen: Butch might not be as flashy as Dana, but he’s got his own kind of heroism. As a welder, he’s the guy who keeps the gears of war turning, literally holding the fort together. His down-to-earth perspective provides a nice contrast to the high-stakes drama unfolding around him. 🛠️
- Tyler Vernon: Our hero from the first book takes a bit of a backseat in Citadel, but he’s still a major player. Vernon’s shift from scrappy entrepreneur to galactic war leader is an interesting evolution, though some might find his presence less compelling this time around.
- The Rangora: These guys are the new big bads, and they’re as menacing as a pack of rabid direwolves. They’re ruthless, powerful, and ready to wipe humanity off the map. Their introduction ramps up the tension, making it clear that the stakes have never been higher.
🐺 Structure:
Ringo structures Citadel like a well-planned military campaign—methodical, precise, and with a clear endgame in sight. The pacing is slower in the beginning, with a lot of time spent setting up the new characters and the life on Troy. But once the action kicks off, it’s a relentless barrage of battles, strategy sessions, and high-stakes drama.
The book is divided into sections that alternate between character-driven moments and large-scale conflicts. This approach keeps the narrative balanced, allowing for both personal growth and epic space battles to coexist without overshadowing each other. However, some readers might find the slower pace in the first half a bit of a slog, especially if they’re itching for action.
🐺 Themes & Analysis:
Citadel is all about survival in the face of overwhelming odds. It’s a classic underdog story, but on a galactic scale. The central theme revolves around the idea of resilience—whether it’s the resilience of the human spirit, the resilience of a battle-worn station like Troy, or the resilience of Earth itself.
Ringo also explores the costs of war, both in terms of human life and the toll it takes on those who fight. There’s a sense of camaraderie among the characters, but also a recognition that not everyone will make it out alive. The book doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of war, and that gives it a grounded, gritty feel that sets it apart from more sanitized sci-fi fare.
And let’s not forget the political undertones. Ringo’s libertarian views are still present, though less in-your-face than in *Live Free or Die*. There’s a clear distrust of government and a strong emphasis on individualism and self-reliance. If that’s your jam, you’ll find plenty to chew on here.
🐺 Scenes:
While Citadel isn’t a romance novel by any stretch, there are a few moments of connection between characters that add depth to the story. Ringo’s focus, however, remains squarely on the action. The battle scenes are intense, with detailed descriptions of tactics, technology, and the sheer chaos of interstellar warfare. One standout scene involves a zero-gravity combat sequence that’s as thrilling as it is disorienting. It’s clear that Ringo knows how to choreograph a fight, whether it’s a dogfight in space or a close-quarters brawl.
🐺 World-Building:
Ringo’s world-building in Citadel takes the groundwork laid in *Live Free or Die* and expands it into a fully-realized galactic setting. The universe he’s created feels lived-in, with a complex web of alliances, rivalries, and histories that make the stakes feel real. The descriptions of Troy, the battle station, are especially vivid—Ringo makes you feel the cold metal under your paws, the vast emptiness of space just outside the hull, and the constant tension of being on the front lines of a war that could decide the fate of humanity.
The introduction of the Rangora adds a new layer of complexity to the story. They’re not just faceless villains—they’re a fully fleshed-out species with their own motivations, culture, and military strategy. This makes the conflict feel more nuanced and raises the stakes even higher.
🐺 Praise & Critique:
There’s a lot to love about Citadel. The action is top-notch, the characters are well-drawn, and the world-building is immersive. Ringo’s attention to detail, especially when it comes to military tactics and technology, is impressive. He knows how to create tension and keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
However, the book’s slower pacing in the first half might be a turnoff for some readers. The focus on day-to-day life on Troy, while interesting, doesn’t have the same immediacy as the action-packed sequences that follow. And while Ringo’s political views are less overt here, they’re still present, and that might not sit well with everyone.
🐺 Comparison:
Compared to Live Free or Die, Citadel is a more complex, mature story. It’s less focused on Tyler Vernon’s personal journey and more on the broader conflict that’s shaping the galaxy. The shift in focus from a single protagonist to a wider cast of characters gives the book a different feel—more of an ensemble piece than a lone wolf tale.
In terms of genre, Citadel fits comfortably alongside other military sci-fi classics like David Weber’s Honor Harrington series. It’s got the same mix of tactical combat, political intrigue, and character development that fans of the genre will appreciate. However, Ringo’s unique blend of humor, action, and libertarian philosophy sets it apart from the crowd.
🐺 Personal Evaluation:
As a seasoned ice wolf who’s seen more than my fair share of battles, Citadel resonated with me on a deep level. There’s something about the mix of high-stakes conflict and the personal struggles of the characters that hits home. Ringo’s ability to balance the epic with the intimate makes this book a standout in the series.
That said, the slower pacing in the first half did test my patience a bit. I’m all for character development, but I was itching for more action, and it took a while to get there. Once the battle sequences kicked in, though, I was hooked. The detailed descriptions of life on Troy, the challenges the characters face, and the sheer scale of the conflict made it worth the wait.
🐺 Conclusion:
Citadel is
a solid entry in the Troy Rising series, building on the foundation laid by *Live Free or Die* and expanding the story in new and exciting directions. It’s a bit slower out of the gate, but once it hits its stride, it’s a wild, thrilling ride through the stars.
I’d recommend Citadel to fans of military sci-fi and space opera who enjoy a good mix of action, character development, and political intrigue. If you’re looking for a book that dives deep into the mechanics of war, both on the battlefield and behind the scenes, this one’s for you.
I’m giving Citadel a solid 4 out of 5 paws. It’s not perfect, but it’s a damn good read that delivers where it counts. So, if you’re ready to join the fight and see what humanity’s really made of, grab a copy and prepare for battle. 🛡️🚀🐾
Alright, pack, let’s dive into the cosmic fray with *Citadel*, the second installment in John Ringo’s Troy Rising series. This book first hit the shelves in January 2011, bringing us more of that juicy military sci-fi goodness, dripping with space opera vibes and just a touch of Ringo’s signature libertarian spice. This time, we’re shifting gears from the scrappy underdog story of *Live Free or Die* to the sprawling, star-studded battlefield of interstellar war. If you thought the first book was a wild ride, strap in, because this one’s a whole new level of starship-fueled chaos! 🚀✨
🐺 Plot Summary:
So, here’s the deal: Earth is no longer the underdog, but we’re still far from the top of the galactic food chain. After Tyler Vernon and his Troy project sent the Horvath packing, humanity’s got a bit of breathing room. But before we can even catch our breath, the universe throws another curveball our way in the form of the Rangora Empire—an alien powerhouse that’s got a serious beef with our allies, the Glatun.
Citadel shifts focus from Vernon to the day-to-day lives of those who now live and work on Troy, the massive battle station that’s humanity’s best shot at holding the line against these new alien threats. We meet a host of new characters—Dana “Comet” Parker, a badass pilot with mad flying skills, and Butch Allen, a welder with more guts than most. The book takes us deep into the trenches of space warfare, from the mundane tasks of life on Troy to the adrenaline-pumping chaos of battle.
As the Rangora begin their assault, the stakes skyrocket. The book’s a slow burn at first, laying the groundwork with detailed descriptions of the characters' lives, but once the war kicks off, it’s all hands on deck in a fight for survival.
🐺 The Author:
John Ringo’s back at it, swinging for the fences with his blend of military expertise and hardcore sci-fi. He’s a prolific author, known for his sharp wit, his deep dives into military tactics, and his not-so-subtle political commentary. With *Citadel*, Ringo doubles down on his strengths, delivering a book that’s heavy on action and tech, with just enough character development to keep you hooked.
Ringo’s been in the game for a while, and his experience shows. He’s got a knack for creating immersive worlds where the stakes are always high, and Citadel is no exception. Whether you’re a fan of his libertarian leanings or not, there’s no denying that Ringo knows how to tell a gripping story.
🐺 Characters:
Time to talk characters—because what’s a story without a few good packmates to root for?
- Dana “Comet” Parker: Dana’s a standout, bringing some much-needed grit and determination to the table. She’s a pilot who’s seen it all, and she’s not afraid to dive headfirst into the fray. Her character arc is one of the highlights of the book, as she navigates the challenges of life on Troy while proving herself in the heat of battle. 🛫🔥
- Butch Allen: Butch might not be as flashy as Dana, but he’s got his own kind of heroism. As a welder, he’s the guy who keeps the gears of war turning, literally holding the fort together. His down-to-earth perspective provides a nice contrast to the high-stakes drama unfolding around him. 🛠️
- Tyler Vernon: Our hero from the first book takes a bit of a backseat in Citadel, but he’s still a major player. Vernon’s shift from scrappy entrepreneur to galactic war leader is an interesting evolution, though some might find his presence less compelling this time around.
- The Rangora: These guys are the new big bads, and they’re as menacing as a pack of rabid direwolves. They’re ruthless, powerful, and ready to wipe humanity off the map. Their introduction ramps up the tension, making it clear that the stakes have never been higher.
🐺 Structure:
Ringo structures Citadel like a well-planned military campaign—methodical, precise, and with a clear endgame in sight. The pacing is slower in the beginning, with a lot of time spent setting up the new characters and the life on Troy. But once the action kicks off, it’s a relentless barrage of battles, strategy sessions, and high-stakes drama.
The book is divided into sections that alternate between character-driven moments and large-scale conflicts. This approach keeps the narrative balanced, allowing for both personal growth and epic space battles to coexist without overshadowing each other. However, some readers might find the slower pace in the first half a bit of a slog, especially if they’re itching for action.
🐺 Themes & Analysis:
Citadel is all about survival in the face of overwhelming odds. It’s a classic underdog story, but on a galactic scale. The central theme revolves around the idea of resilience—whether it’s the resilience of the human spirit, the resilience of a battle-worn station like Troy, or the resilience of Earth itself.
Ringo also explores the costs of war, both in terms of human life and the toll it takes on those who fight. There’s a sense of camaraderie among the characters, but also a recognition that not everyone will make it out alive. The book doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of war, and that gives it a grounded, gritty feel that sets it apart from more sanitized sci-fi fare.
And let’s not forget the political undertones. Ringo’s libertarian views are still present, though less in-your-face than in *Live Free or Die*. There’s a clear distrust of government and a strong emphasis on individualism and self-reliance. If that’s your jam, you’ll find plenty to chew on here.
🐺 Scenes:
While Citadel isn’t a romance novel by any stretch, there are a few moments of connection between characters that add depth to the story. Ringo’s focus, however, remains squarely on the action. The battle scenes are intense, with detailed descriptions of tactics, technology, and the sheer chaos of interstellar warfare. One standout scene involves a zero-gravity combat sequence that’s as thrilling as it is disorienting. It’s clear that Ringo knows how to choreograph a fight, whether it’s a dogfight in space or a close-quarters brawl.
🐺 World-Building:
Ringo’s world-building in Citadel takes the groundwork laid in *Live Free or Die* and expands it into a fully-realized galactic setting. The universe he’s created feels lived-in, with a complex web of alliances, rivalries, and histories that make the stakes feel real. The descriptions of Troy, the battle station, are especially vivid—Ringo makes you feel the cold metal under your paws, the vast emptiness of space just outside the hull, and the constant tension of being on the front lines of a war that could decide the fate of humanity.
The introduction of the Rangora adds a new layer of complexity to the story. They’re not just faceless villains—they’re a fully fleshed-out species with their own motivations, culture, and military strategy. This makes the conflict feel more nuanced and raises the stakes even higher.
🐺 Praise & Critique:
There’s a lot to love about Citadel. The action is top-notch, the characters are well-drawn, and the world-building is immersive. Ringo’s attention to detail, especially when it comes to military tactics and technology, is impressive. He knows how to create tension and keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
However, the book’s slower pacing in the first half might be a turnoff for some readers. The focus on day-to-day life on Troy, while interesting, doesn’t have the same immediacy as the action-packed sequences that follow. And while Ringo’s political views are less overt here, they’re still present, and that might not sit well with everyone.
🐺 Comparison:
Compared to Live Free or Die, Citadel is a more complex, mature story. It’s less focused on Tyler Vernon’s personal journey and more on the broader conflict that’s shaping the galaxy. The shift in focus from a single protagonist to a wider cast of characters gives the book a different feel—more of an ensemble piece than a lone wolf tale.
In terms of genre, Citadel fits comfortably alongside other military sci-fi classics like David Weber’s Honor Harrington series. It’s got the same mix of tactical combat, political intrigue, and character development that fans of the genre will appreciate. However, Ringo’s unique blend of humor, action, and libertarian philosophy sets it apart from the crowd.
🐺 Personal Evaluation:
As a seasoned ice wolf who’s seen more than my fair share of battles, Citadel resonated with me on a deep level. There’s something about the mix of high-stakes conflict and the personal struggles of the characters that hits home. Ringo’s ability to balance the epic with the intimate makes this book a standout in the series.
That said, the slower pacing in the first half did test my patience a bit. I’m all for character development, but I was itching for more action, and it took a while to get there. Once the battle sequences kicked in, though, I was hooked. The detailed descriptions of life on Troy, the challenges the characters face, and the sheer scale of the conflict made it worth the wait.
🐺 Conclusion:
Citadel is
a solid entry in the Troy Rising series, building on the foundation laid by *Live Free or Die* and expanding the story in new and exciting directions. It’s a bit slower out of the gate, but once it hits its stride, it’s a wild, thrilling ride through the stars.
I’d recommend Citadel to fans of military sci-fi and space opera who enjoy a good mix of action, character development, and political intrigue. If you’re looking for a book that dives deep into the mechanics of war, both on the battlefield and behind the scenes, this one’s for you.
I’m giving Citadel a solid 4 out of 5 paws. It’s not perfect, but it’s a damn good read that delivers where it counts. So, if you’re ready to join the fight and see what humanity’s really made of, grab a copy and prepare for battle. 🛡️🚀🐾
May 28, 2015
Very much hard science and military fiction, with a strong focus almost exclusively on those elements in the general context of allegory concerning Ringo's views on America and its position with the rest of the world. In fact, the book takes place, generally, in the very near future, so that things we'd reference the book references, too, within recent living memory.
Apparently, Citadel is a sequel (the first book is called Live Free or Die, which stars the character who comes closest to having...actual definition in Citadel itself), though it can easily be read on its own. It's the drums of war that drive the whole thing, preparations for and Ringo's glee of how easily humans are able to adapt and therefore survive in its sudden galactic community, filled with allies and enemies. Ringo tends to gloss over anything that's not science or military execution, which means all his characters exist to demonstrate these things. Which is to say, you can easily tell that he's former military, because he's got that depersonalized thing down to a science, which is somewhat extremely odd because at the end of the book he includes a moving essay about his incredibly lively, recently deceased mother.
I read this because I don't tend to read as much science fiction as watch it. Ringo clearly has plenty of references to visual sci-fi, too, not the least being Star Wars, from which he extracts the massive battle station (read: Death Star) that is the main reason the humans are able to shake off all the devastation that is otherwise barely relevant to the story.
If you don't like science, don't care for America's recent military actions, and don't particularly like military culture (although the joke on you, because business culture is military culture, and at this point, who escapes the fingers of business?), you probably won't like this. If this is how a lot of these science fiction books actually are (and if all of Ringo's books are like this, I probably have read enough myself, and rating it four stars is acknowledgment of how I perceive on a one-time basis his ability to explain the present in a slightly abstract way, not necessarily a ringing endorsement), I guess I've read enough of them. For now.
Apparently, Citadel is a sequel (the first book is called Live Free or Die, which stars the character who comes closest to having...actual definition in Citadel itself), though it can easily be read on its own. It's the drums of war that drive the whole thing, preparations for and Ringo's glee of how easily humans are able to adapt and therefore survive in its sudden galactic community, filled with allies and enemies. Ringo tends to gloss over anything that's not science or military execution, which means all his characters exist to demonstrate these things. Which is to say, you can easily tell that he's former military, because he's got that depersonalized thing down to a science, which is somewhat extremely odd because at the end of the book he includes a moving essay about his incredibly lively, recently deceased mother.
I read this because I don't tend to read as much science fiction as watch it. Ringo clearly has plenty of references to visual sci-fi, too, not the least being Star Wars, from which he extracts the massive battle station (read: Death Star) that is the main reason the humans are able to shake off all the devastation that is otherwise barely relevant to the story.
If you don't like science, don't care for America's recent military actions, and don't particularly like military culture (although the joke on you, because business culture is military culture, and at this point, who escapes the fingers of business?), you probably won't like this. If this is how a lot of these science fiction books actually are (and if all of Ringo's books are like this, I probably have read enough myself, and rating it four stars is acknowledgment of how I perceive on a one-time basis his ability to explain the present in a slightly abstract way, not necessarily a ringing endorsement), I guess I've read enough of them. For now.
December 16, 2024
"Citadel" by John Ringo is book two of the SciFi series Troy Rising and it is good.
Note: This book begins, chronology-wise, toward the end of Book 1, but from the point of view of the pilot who made an emergency entrance into the Troy's main bay. Although this book could be read alone and make sense, a lot of the detail is missing that is explained in book 1 "Live Free or Die".
The story: In the continuing fight against oppression, the Terran forces must battle the Rangora, who are much more capable than the previous oppressors, the Horvath. The story moves it's focus from Tyler Vernon, who used his Libertarian philosophy to build a solar super weapon, to Dana Parker, a new recruit in the space navy, and James "Butch" Allen, an average 18-year-old who wants to be a space welder. It may not sound exciting, but I enjoyed watching their character development unfold. About midway through the book, Tyler Vernon comes into focus, and we get more Libertarian philosophy.
Any problems with the novel? A few. The writing is very jaunty which I appreciate. The author is not trying to take himself too seriously. He is poking fun at himself as much as others. I think it adds to the book, but some might not like it. Flip open the book, read the first few pages and you'll know what I mean.
It also seems to be a transitional book, building up the story from book 1 for the final big battle in book 3. Nevertheless, there is plenty of action in this book.
Is this book for kids? No. Not really. The S-word is used 7 times, but the F-word is not used at all. There is a lot of violence and some non-marital sex. They don't go into detail about it, but they do mention it happening.
Over all if you have a Libertarian bent, then this book is for you.
I've read this book several times as part of reading the series.
Note: This book begins, chronology-wise, toward the end of Book 1, but from the point of view of the pilot who made an emergency entrance into the Troy's main bay. Although this book could be read alone and make sense, a lot of the detail is missing that is explained in book 1 "Live Free or Die".
The story: In the continuing fight against oppression, the Terran forces must battle the Rangora, who are much more capable than the previous oppressors, the Horvath. The story moves it's focus from Tyler Vernon, who used his Libertarian philosophy to build a solar super weapon, to Dana Parker, a new recruit in the space navy, and James "Butch" Allen, an average 18-year-old who wants to be a space welder. It may not sound exciting, but I enjoyed watching their character development unfold. About midway through the book, Tyler Vernon comes into focus, and we get more Libertarian philosophy.
Any problems with the novel? A few. The writing is very jaunty which I appreciate. The author is not trying to take himself too seriously. He is poking fun at himself as much as others. I think it adds to the book, but some might not like it. Flip open the book, read the first few pages and you'll know what I mean.
It also seems to be a transitional book, building up the story from book 1 for the final big battle in book 3. Nevertheless, there is plenty of action in this book.
Is this book for kids? No. Not really. The S-word is used 7 times, but the F-word is not used at all. There is a lot of violence and some non-marital sex. They don't go into detail about it, but they do mention it happening.
Over all if you have a Libertarian bent, then this book is for you.
I've read this book several times as part of reading the series.
October 17, 2012
Since Citadel is the second in a series the first question that must be answered is: Is is as good as the first? Well yes and no. In many ways it's better in other's it is worse. Ringo certainly toned down the comedy aspects of the first book and so it was less fun and original as a book. But as a follow up it was still excellent.
Citadel zooms in to focus on a new set of characters who are taking up positions working on the Troy. Which is basically an asteroid hollowed out into a massive battle station. For anyone wondering why Earth needs a battlestation that was covered in book 1. Basically aliens put a
A good and solid continuation of the series that focuses on the details of running a battle station while still having grand fun with a massive set of battles. This series is definitely recommended to anyone who likes action adventure and science fiction colliding paths. Particularly military sci-fi.
November 20, 2025
Enjoyed this tale just as much as Live Free or Die. There was a lot more character building in this book and the action was a little late to the party, but it didn't detract from the story.
Update: Loved the second listen too.
Update: Still great.
Update: Loved the second listen too.
Update: Still great.
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February 1, 2021Citadel is the second book in Ringo's Troy Rising series, and in a way it breaks the mold set in the first. Most of Live Free or Die takes place from the point of view of Tyler Vernon, the man who successfully opens up trade with the Glatun and organizes the Earth resistance to the Horvath. Now, Ringo introduces a couple of new characters so that we can get a better perspective of what's going on with the man-made planetoid, Troy, as construction on a war time footing predominates this book.
The Horvath were smacked around pretty hard at the end of LFoD, and are most likely off licking their wounds somewhere, but the Rangora empire which gave the Horvath most of the fleet that Troy wiped out have decided that the Terrans must be dealt with sooner than later, so their punitive fleet, more modern and powerful than the Horvath's, is on the way. Ringo also introduces a couple of characters on the Rangora side of things, so that we can see what their high command is thinking, as each of a series of space battles falls into place.
On the military side of things, we get Engineering Apprentice Dana Parker, a bright young woman who is part of the space navy. Fresh out of the academy, she experiences a crash course (sometimes literally) in maintaining and repairing the space vehicles used by the fleet, and as a coxswain, or pilot. On the civilian side, there's Butch Allen, a member of a poor family with fourteen children, who takes the opportunity to go to Troy as an apprentice welder. He survives the hazing rituals of the existing crew and the rigors of training and working in microgravity and hard vacuum, to become an integral part of the construction and later salvage operations as succeeding fleets sent by the Rangora are reduced to their component pieces and used by the Earth fleet for their needs.
The Rangoran characters are possibly the best of a bad lot. Most of the high command consistently underestimate the fighting ability and technological level of Earth, but Major To'Jopeviq and his political officer, Lieutenant Jith Beor, are prone to a more realistic assessment of the odds. This puts them at odds with most of their colleagues and superiors, but in the end they are justified in a Pyrrhic fashion.
Most hard science fiction and military buffs will probably really enjoy this novel, as it explores the possibilities of applying new technology to an old endeavor. I know I did. Waiting eagerly for Troy Rising III.
The Horvath were smacked around pretty hard at the end of LFoD, and are most likely off licking their wounds somewhere, but the Rangora empire which gave the Horvath most of the fleet that Troy wiped out have decided that the Terrans must be dealt with sooner than later, so their punitive fleet, more modern and powerful than the Horvath's, is on the way. Ringo also introduces a couple of characters on the Rangora side of things, so that we can see what their high command is thinking, as each of a series of space battles falls into place.
On the military side of things, we get Engineering Apprentice Dana Parker, a bright young woman who is part of the space navy. Fresh out of the academy, she experiences a crash course (sometimes literally) in maintaining and repairing the space vehicles used by the fleet, and as a coxswain, or pilot. On the civilian side, there's Butch Allen, a member of a poor family with fourteen children, who takes the opportunity to go to Troy as an apprentice welder. He survives the hazing rituals of the existing crew and the rigors of training and working in microgravity and hard vacuum, to become an integral part of the construction and later salvage operations as succeeding fleets sent by the Rangora are reduced to their component pieces and used by the Earth fleet for their needs.
The Rangoran characters are possibly the best of a bad lot. Most of the high command consistently underestimate the fighting ability and technological level of Earth, but Major To'Jopeviq and his political officer, Lieutenant Jith Beor, are prone to a more realistic assessment of the odds. This puts them at odds with most of their colleagues and superiors, but in the end they are justified in a Pyrrhic fashion.
Most hard science fiction and military buffs will probably really enjoy this novel, as it explores the possibilities of applying new technology to an old endeavor. I know I did. Waiting eagerly for Troy Rising III.
July 24, 2020
This novel does not directly follow on Live Free or Die. Not only has some time lapsed since the end of the first novel, but we are also introduced to a new group of characters. Tyler Vernon has moved off to the margins of the story, perhaps because he became so powerful over the course of the first book that he was no longer the underdog in the way he had been when he started out.
Instead, we have two brand new POV characters: Dana and Butch. Dana lost everything when one of those early Horvath reprisals destroyed Los Angeles, and since then she's been determined to have her revenge. That determination has given her the drive to enter the new spacegoing Navy, in which she is learning to pilot their fighter craft and take the war to the enemy the next time they dare come back through the Gate and trouble humanity.
By contrast, Butch is just a young man trying to find his place in life. Thanks to the Horvath's genetic tampering, his parents are having one child after another, which means that as soon as you hit adulthood, you need to hit the streets. He knows he would never make it in the Navy, and he doesn't want the grind of low-wage work. When he hears that Tyler's new company is looking for welders, he decides to sign up -- and actually makes the cut.
I'd expected that, with this set-up, the storyline would alternate between Dana and Butch. Instead, most of the storyline is Dana, and Butch just shows up now and then. On the other hand, there's a lot of stuff about Dana's heroic piloting in the face of enemy action, especially after the Horvath get their asses handed to them and their patrons come calling, while Butch is mostly dealing with the dynamics of the very crude bunch he's having to work with, and separating that casual crudity from genuine abuse.
It's interesting to speculate why the company insists on formality of address among their workers, particularly between subordinate and superior, as it's becoming less and less common in everyday parlance in civilian settings. Is it about discipline? Is it about attention to detail? Or is it just one of those "you're not in Kansas any more" things, intended to help bring about a change in one's basic mindset?
In any case, it's an action-packed novel of humanity's determination to not be under anyone's yoke or paying anyone's protection money again.
Instead, we have two brand new POV characters: Dana and Butch. Dana lost everything when one of those early Horvath reprisals destroyed Los Angeles, and since then she's been determined to have her revenge. That determination has given her the drive to enter the new spacegoing Navy, in which she is learning to pilot their fighter craft and take the war to the enemy the next time they dare come back through the Gate and trouble humanity.
By contrast, Butch is just a young man trying to find his place in life. Thanks to the Horvath's genetic tampering, his parents are having one child after another, which means that as soon as you hit adulthood, you need to hit the streets. He knows he would never make it in the Navy, and he doesn't want the grind of low-wage work. When he hears that Tyler's new company is looking for welders, he decides to sign up -- and actually makes the cut.
I'd expected that, with this set-up, the storyline would alternate between Dana and Butch. Instead, most of the storyline is Dana, and Butch just shows up now and then. On the other hand, there's a lot of stuff about Dana's heroic piloting in the face of enemy action, especially after the Horvath get their asses handed to them and their patrons come calling, while Butch is mostly dealing with the dynamics of the very crude bunch he's having to work with, and separating that casual crudity from genuine abuse.
It's interesting to speculate why the company insists on formality of address among their workers, particularly between subordinate and superior, as it's becoming less and less common in everyday parlance in civilian settings. Is it about discipline? Is it about attention to detail? Or is it just one of those "you're not in Kansas any more" things, intended to help bring about a change in one's basic mindset?
In any case, it's an action-packed novel of humanity's determination to not be under anyone's yoke or paying anyone's protection money again.
July 21, 2019
I really enjoyed this book's predecessor, "Live Free or Die", and was initially very disappointed with this #2 in the "Troy Rising" science fiction series. The training of new space troops – one high schooler enlisted man, and one female pilot – was pretty interesting. … But, what the heck?! I swear that John Ringo repeated the same scene from book #1?! Also, through 1/3 of the book, there was nothing about the prior main character, the multi-billionaire (or is it trillionaire), Tyler Vernon. (I thought he was the most interesting character.)
As it went on however, I found it very interesting to consider working in space e.g. welding, making the tools compatible with the vacuum, etc., and I found myself REALLY enjoying it again. I can liken the style and ‘depth’ to the Jack Campbell, "Lost Fleet" series – but actually better! It plays off of the politics of today ( e.g. why is the US protecting other countries on earth and bearing all of the expense) and Ringo adds his smart-ass humor. Also, it makes the read wonder if any of the book’s ‘science' would really be 'possible'. … Of course, there’s also a big space battle.
I thought it was a fun read and have immediately started book #3.
As it went on however, I found it very interesting to consider working in space e.g. welding, making the tools compatible with the vacuum, etc., and I found myself REALLY enjoying it again. I can liken the style and ‘depth’ to the Jack Campbell, "Lost Fleet" series – but actually better! It plays off of the politics of today ( e.g. why is the US protecting other countries on earth and bearing all of the expense) and Ringo adds his smart-ass humor. Also, it makes the read wonder if any of the book’s ‘science' would really be 'possible'. … Of course, there’s also a big space battle.
I thought it was a fun read and have immediately started book #3.
January 24, 2018
Great sequel. The first book showed capitalism saving Earth from an alien attack (TL;DR: sell maple syrup to other aliens, use the money to buy their technology and build defense systems). This second book shows capitalism+democracy saving Earth from another alien attack (e.g.: aliens kill our world leaders, hoping to cause wars of succession, and are utterly confused when succession happens peacefully and lawfully in most countries). Lots of fun and delightfully offensive passages (and blondes keep going into heat, thanks to that alien biological weapon from the first book). Also, this has to be the best military psych eval of all times:
"I've got a picture of your sister here", Mr. Monaghan said. "Cute. Clarissa, is it?"
"I've got a sister named Clarissa, Mr. Monaghan."
"So why'd you have a naked picture of her on your iPod, Butch? Don't you know that's child pornography."
"I don't have one, Mr. Monaghan," Butch said.
"Well, I'm looking at one," Mr. Monaghan said. "Cute. Nice little picture Nice girl. You think she's hot?"
"She's six, you sick bastard!" Butch said.
"She's six, Mr. Monaghan," Mr. Monaghan said.
"I've got a picture of your sister here", Mr. Monaghan said. "Cute. Clarissa, is it?"
"I've got a sister named Clarissa, Mr. Monaghan."
"So why'd you have a naked picture of her on your iPod, Butch? Don't you know that's child pornography."
"I don't have one, Mr. Monaghan," Butch said.
"Well, I'm looking at one," Mr. Monaghan said. "Cute. Nice little picture Nice girl. You think she's hot?"
"She's six, you sick bastard!" Butch said.
"She's six, Mr. Monaghan," Mr. Monaghan said.
December 2, 2019
The first aliens placed a gate to other solar systems near Earth. It was available for anybody that could get to it. Unfortunately that did not include humans. The second group of aliens dropped rocks on the Earth and then said they would stop if we basically made them our overlords. The third group was traders but the Earth has given away almost everything of worth to their new overlords. Now, one man has a plan to free the Earth. It all depends if he can find that one thing the alien traders really want. The Earth has gained its freedom, but their old overlords manage to find a new ally. An ally that manages to crush Earth's ally. Can the humans hold the solar system ?
This is a story in three parts. This is the second part. While the story does have a conclusion, it is also obvious there is more to the story. This is a large, complex story that is intricately detailed and thought out. This isn't a space fantasy but a true science fiction book with believable science. A great read.
This is a story in three parts. This is the second part. While the story does have a conclusion, it is also obvious there is more to the story. This is a large, complex story that is intricately detailed and thought out. This isn't a space fantasy but a true science fiction book with believable science. A great read.
February 25, 2018
An interesting idea of how humanity might fit in with alien civilizations. In my opinion, the enjoyment of the book was hindered by a couple of the author's techniques. Some parts of the book seem to be written for video, with each paragraph, the scene may shift from a group of people on earth or to a different group of people in space. This is difficult for the reader to follow by the author's words alone. The author also has a tendency to refer to characters in a confusing number of ways. A single character may at times be referred to by their name, at other times by their military rank or an abbreviation, or a nickname, or a slang term, or a general description ... in some areas of the book, it's hard to guess how many people are in the room because their names keep changing.
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