Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Empire Rising #16

Shadow Strike

Rate this book
Six months ago the Eaglaton Protectorate launched an unprovoked attack against Humanity and her allies. Only a daring strike led by Georgia Somerville managed to reopen the Gift wormhole and allow Imperial reinforcements into the conflict zone. Now, Admiral Becket has the full might of the Imperial Navy flowing to her banner. Yet time is of the essence, for there are signs the Karacknid Civil War is coming to an end and Humanity’s old enemy may soon seek its revenge.

Becket, aided by Jonathan and Georgia Somerville, must strike hard and fast against the Protectorate. For if they cannot end the unwanted war quickly, it may drain the Empire and her allies of all the strength they have spent two decades building.

However, lurking in the shadows, another foe watches, determined to do whatever it takes to see the two enemies fight it out to the death.

One way or another, something must break, for if the war cannot be ended quickly, Humanity will find it impossible to defend itself on three fronts.

693 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 14, 2023

200 people are currently reading
21 people want to read

About the author

D.J. Holmes

33 books148 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
607 (74%)
4 stars
175 (21%)
3 stars
29 (3%)
2 stars
3 (<1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Sean Cleary.
3 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2023
absolutley awesome

Greatest series I’ve read in years. I cant wait fot the next installment. Keep them coming! What an expansive universe!
4 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2023
Holmes never disappoints

I want a new book entry everyday!

A wonderful series that I hope continues on until we reach the writing of the excerpts from the book written five centuries in the future.
Profile Image for Damaged142.
206 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2023
Phenomenal

***Major Spoilers Ahead***




This has been a fantastic addition to the Empire Rising series. We see the continuation of the war with the protectorates, and as usual, DJH did an amazing job portraying the significance of the battles that took place. The skill with which he wrangles the ever complicating plot is astounding. So many sub-plots that have been in the making since almost the very beginning of the series are now starting to come to the surface.

The fact that the Slizzaran's (hopefully I'm spelling that right) schemes have now been uncovered and humanity knows an unknown force is infiltrating the empire was not something I was expecting towards the latter end of the book. Multiple times during the last 60ish pages of the book, I had to put it down because it was killing me with suspense. Not knowing if either side would come to find out who was actually behind the bombing for so long was crazy and the best part of the book.


There were a few grammatical errors that I remember at points throughout the book, but nothing major and nothing that impacted my enjoyment of it.

Very excited to continue!





5 reviews
February 17, 2023
Continues the story

As always a good read. Sometimes a little draggy but you need to develops different characters and themes as you go.
Profile Image for Jim.
1,235 reviews50 followers
August 30, 2023
The Empire is fighting a war that is unnecessary, to them anyway. Not so with their enemy, the members of the Eagleton Protectorate. They have been feed a whole bunch of lies about the Human Empire so much so that they feel it is their obligation to wipe out these humans as quickly as possible. Even when approached by Jonathan Somerville as Captain of the *Achilles*, they rebuffed his efforts to peacefully converse with him. In fact, this war has already seen Jonathan lose his ship, but he did so while valiantly covering the Gift, a wormhole that allows access to this part of space. He fled back through the Gift jus in time to warn the Commodore protecting the Gift that he must get through it to ensure it continues to stay open.

Having done that, the Human Empire regained access to the Gift although they didn’t know for how long that was going to hold. Jonathan had been serving aboard Admiral Becket’s flag-ship as a staff office and had done an admirable job. Now he was going to his new command, the *Kestrel* a unique ship and one of its kind in the Empire. Admiral Becket will expect him to get his new ship in fighting order quickly since she is not one to just stand around on this side of the Gift. So, Jonathan is busy getting his ship and crew to working like his previous ship, the *Achilles *. Fortunately he had a number of crew that had transferred from the *Achilles* with him so he was not unfamiliar with some of his people.

He finally got his ship battle ready only to be assigned to a flank screening mission under Commodore Magnuson. His orders were mostly to scout the fleets flanks ensuring no Protectorate forces could attack them without notice. This would bring him near the Dudllias system which he had visited while commanding the *Achilles.*This time though he was instructed to stay away from the Dudllias system unless he specifically knew that Protectorate ships were staging in that system. Jonathan wanted to let King Krilim know that the Human Empire was still their friends even though they had forced him to destroy their gas mining facilities so the Protectorate wouldn’t try to stage fleets in their system.

But, as things turned out, Jonathan wasn’t specifically ordered to stay out of the Dudllias system if he felt there were Protectorate ships using it. So, he did follow a Protectorate scout ship into the Dudllias system only to find it occupied by a small Protectorate scouting party. Jonathan took it upon himself to attack and destroy these Protectorate ships. By doing so he secured the system for the Humane Empire. Eventually, King Krilim requested the Empires’s protection which Commodore Magnusson arranged by bringing his entire fleet into the system.

From that system, Commodore Magnusson’s fleet is going to go towards Farvul’vain with the appearance they were going to attack the home planet of Protectorate Rear Admiral Lvant. Rear Admiral Lvant his brought there remnants of his fleet back to this system and sits there worrying more about his career than about the Protectorates defense. He doesn’t know that Commodore Magnusson’s mission is a feint and not the primary mission.

The actually plans are for Admiral Becket’s fleet to begin attacking and destroying all the northern colonies of the Protectorate/Rasmorse sector of space while holding Rear Admiral Lvant where he is. Her plan seems to be working and only gets into trouble when the Protectorate Admiral Reverus brings his huge fleet towards Farvul’vain.

Meanwhile, Emperor and Empress James and Christine Somerville have gotten word that the Karacknids civil war is about to end with Tanaka-Ian soon to become the new Imperator. They know he will then set his sites on conquering the Human Empire. The Human Empire has been forced to move ships and troops far from their northern borders with the Karacknid Empire to the south to support this war against the Protectorate.

Both the Emperor and Empress know they must end this war with the Protectorate one way or another before it costs them too much. But, has that cost already been paid? They get some very unwanted news about their daughter, Georgia, a fierce and very competent starship fighter pilot, with Admiral Becket’s fleet. That news and more prompts Emperor/Admiral James Somerville to launch his flagship towards ending this war one way or another.

Ok, so I don’t know how long this series can go, but if we are involved in another Karacknid war then it might be up to the Emperor and Empresses kids to fight these new battles. That is as long as they last. I’ve never read an author that took his series out that far, but there is a 17th book titled, “[Debt of Deceit](https://amzn.to/3L4MNn0)”, now available on Amazon. I certainly going to read this one.
Profile Image for scifi_gregorio.
9 reviews3 followers
June 2, 2024
Shadow Strike

693 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2023

Genres: Science Fiction, Military Fiction
Subgenres: Military Science Fiction

Shadow Strike is the sixteenth book in the Empire Rising series by D.J. Holmes. The book serial chronicles the rise of humanity’s Imperial Empire about 400 years in the future and follows the story of James Somerville over the course of decades.

So, the question is why am I reviewing 2 of the later books in this epic Military Fiction? Simply they have withstood the test of time for such a long book series. I mentioned my litmus test for 5-star reviews in my review of Book 15. If I get to 15 or 16 books, if I cannot put the book down, if I have to fight the urge to skip pages to see the outcome, then I am truly entertained. There is subset of reviewers who always post negatives and dwell on minor points. Not me, get out the popcorn as I am hooked. D.J Holmes and everyone in his food chain deserve to monetize the novel. Selling books is the expected outcome.

You will encounter new sentient species, an unprovoked attack, and plenty of dogfights, military strategy and antimatter missiles. Of course, the old enemies such as the Flex-aor and Karacknid are still in the background as well as a hidden new enemy. Finally, I always enjoy a visit from Emperor Somerville.

Once again, Mr. Holmes is a master storyteller who twists and merges subplots seamlessly. He put my emotions through a roller coaster with some of the likable characters. This is precisely the point where I got urge to flip to the end of the book to quickly see the outcome. I always appreciate Mr. Holmes adherence to hard science.

If you enjoy this genre, I recommend you start with the first book. Yes, the novels are long and there are many of them but you will not be disappointed. Onward to the next book!

• Reviewed by @SCIFI_GREGORIO (Greg)
https://www.instagram.com/scifi_grego...
• I will do ARC Reviews.
Profile Image for Per Gunnar.
1,318 reviews75 followers
February 26, 2023
My post titles when reviewing books in this series are perhaps becoming a bit repetitive but when you have a series of 16 books, so far, which have received 9 four star and 5 five star ratings it is becoming a wee bit difficult to figure out new permutations of “another good/great book”.

This is another five star book. It is great military action both in space and on the ground but in particular truly great space battles with large fleets duking it out.

The book focuses on the “third front” and the Eaglaton story arc. This time around it is The Empire’s turn to kick some serious ass. It also delves into why the Eaglatons have a somewhat incorrect view of humanity and their intentions. Since it has been hinted at in previous books I would say it is not really a huge surprise that another alien party is involved in this deception and in this book we get our first real glimpses into that part of the story.

There are several things I like about this book (these books). I have mentioned the quality of the writing, the characters and the well made military tactics and strategies in several other reviews so I will not really repeat it here.

However, in this book Emperor Sommerville gets back into the action a bit which I like. But what I especially like is that the Eaglaton story arc starts to arrive at a conclusion, at least the part where they blindly thought humanity was an evil empire hellbent on conquering the galaxy.

I have to admit that this part of the story was not my favorite part. That an entire starfaring nation could be that deluded and indoctrinated did really not feel plausible to me. But then, when you read the, 90% fake, news today maybe it is plausible?

Anyway I am, obviously, eagerly waiting for the next installment.
Profile Image for Phil X.  Katz.
190 reviews2 followers
November 16, 2025
D. J. Holmes is nothing short of Amazing!

OK. I can see your eyes rolling from here. But hear me out.
I have read hundreds of books, not only in this genre, but also in fantasy and historical fiction, and I have yet to encounter another author who could not only imagine an alternate universe like the one depicted in this saga, Mut make it come to life!

I've lost track of the number of different species who play significant roles in this, epic, but each species, and each character within tgat species, is, unique.

And don't even get me started on the Human characters.

This is book 16 I think and have no idea how many more there are, but I don't ever want to reach the end. I don't think I've lasted 10 books into a series before I became bored and had to quit.

Not this, guy! He understands battle strategies and tactics (he's even read Sun Tzu!!!), he understands weapons and point defences, and I just can't stop reading.

So if you have a little time on your hands, and you like this Genre, and enjoyed author's like Cheney and Brazee, you're gonna LOVE this saga!

Well? What are you waiting for?
1 review
Read
October 19, 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed the Empire Rising series. Book 16 'Shadow Strike' was particularly satisfying in that it closed what had been a harrowing period for the Empire.
D.J. Holmes writes in a light but comprehensive manner by this I mean he does not try to obfuscate and there is little reason to have to go back and seek clarification.
One very minor criticism - the recent books in the series have needed better proof reading as there have been some obvious errors in matters such as names and the occasional omitted words.
3 reviews
March 24, 2023
More naming give a **** would be nice

I like this series and I look forward to more books but sometimes it's like the author just gives up when naming things

Spider like aliens Karacknids
Eagle like aliens Eaglatons
Planet of the snake aliens Anaconsada
Antaurians? Probably going to be ant aliens but I hope not.

Come on man
8 reviews
February 8, 2024
Still a good read

Holmes is becoming a better writer with each book. While the structural problems remain, e.g., completely ignoring astrophysics and economics, it is still a good read. Character development is Holmes' strength, and the plots, although sometimes predictable, are sufficiently complex and twisty to keep my interest. I still want to know how their their society produces so many warrior women compared to ours. That strains my credulity.
26 reviews
Read
September 27, 2025
great story with annoying little errors

16 books in, and the plot is still interesting and the main characters evolution and refresh with new ones.

Great plots, great story arc, absolutely annoying errors all the way through the books: Getting characters from past books names wrong, Becket is not Georgia’s cousin, Emilie is, and Emilie is not their aunt, she is their cousin.

Tiny little things that just take the edge off at otherwise great set of books.

GET AN EDITOR.
13 reviews
February 28, 2023
Too long.

While I've enjoyed the series it seems like they get longer and wordy for no reason. This book could have been a fourth shorter and would have been more enjoyable.
I may read another book or two but definitely not for 3,4 or 20 more as you come up with more and more enemies.
3 reviews1 follower
February 28, 2023
Another great book in the series

I’ll be honest, this book had me right on the edge of my seat the whole time. It’s amazing that after 16 books in the series, Mr. Holmes can still pull that off. Looking forward to the continuation of the series and hopefully many more books to follow.
Profile Image for Martin.
24 reviews1 follower
April 10, 2023
the empire keepster rising

It’s Been a while since I read the 15th book but everything resurfaced quickly and whole new events and creatures entered the playing field. The “death” of one of the key characters was a shock and the whole aftermath more than rewarding for me as captive reader. Now I only have to wait…unfortunately.
642 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2025
Great read.

This book was a good fit to the series. The book had a lot that went on in it from plenty of space battles against different aliens on different planets. The book was nonstop action and they even figured out that they have another new enemy in the mix . It was hard to put the book down because I had to see what was going to happen next.
3 reviews
February 21, 2023
Worth the Wait

Continuing the story of the Somervilles in the most engaging way. Lots of action and intrigue. The story just continues to get better and makes it hard to wait for the next book. Please make it as good as this one and soon.
1 review
February 22, 2023
best one yet in Thr series

Thx DJ Holmes, get well soon…excellent story! Looking so forward to the next book. I really liked the length of this installment too..really got to cover so much ground… or vacuum
30 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2023
The very best Sci Fi series in digital print!

I am amazed at how great the Empire Rising series is and continues to be! A long way to travel if you are just getting started with the series, but totally worth it Great job again Ed!!
20 reviews
March 4, 2023
Plenty of moving parts

I've enjoyed this series from the beginning. It has a good mix of action and consideration. The fleet action and maneuvers are interesting, and add flavor to the story. I definitely recommend the books and encourage everyone to start at the beginning.
9 reviews
March 5, 2023
Onwards with style

Another enthralling instalment in this ongoing saga please keep them coming
The main problem for me is i read them to quickly may need to start from scratch and read them all again😁
Profile Image for Ruth.
7 reviews
March 6, 2023
Impressive

One of the best series I have ever read. Honor Harrington step aside. The Sommervilles k ow how to get it done. I can't wait to see the sun gates in action!

Mike Holcomb
2 reviews
March 30, 2023
As always, an amazing addition to the story

Holmes was able to create another wonderful continuation to the story he’s been building. The pacing is great and the twist ending came as a nice surprise. Can’t wait for the next one!!
87 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2023
Empire Rising series

Hard military science fiction. Very detailed, well written, characters have some actual depth and personality. I've just read the 16th book in this series. Holmes doesn't disappoint.
3 reviews
April 18, 2023
Great read

I’ve enjoyed this series immensely and look forward to the next instalment. It grips you from the very beginning and the plot keeps getting better and better. Keep up the good work D.J
Profile Image for Dan Sorensen.
4 reviews
March 24, 2024
Another Riveting Can't put-down series By DJ Holmes

It's a fantastic read found it very hard to even put it down once I started And next thing I know I've read all the books in this series That's the sign of a good artist.
Profile Image for Mark Baller.
614 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2024
Interesting military sci-fi story

Exciting book fun read I recommend it Military sci-fi Especially. It's been a great series I wonder how long it can go on. Brown game for another 10 bucks at least .
Profile Image for Leon.
5 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2023
I think this series has the greatest quality improvement from start to now of any series I've read! Really more like 3.5 stars now...
13 reviews
February 21, 2023
Another excellent book in the series

Could not put it down nice flow and easy read only problem now is that I now have to wait for the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.