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The Starlore Legacy #5
Merchant
A child awakens to discover his destiny, but powerful forces want to destroy him. Will he survive?
Brae Thornton finally sees her dream to travel the stars come true, but her idyllic adventure shatters as the ominous forces of Lord Dracus transcend the realm of the Ruah and collide with the fate of the galaxy. When her astrotech mission to the Omega Nebula meets with fatal calamity, she is thrust into a desperate battle to survive. A mysterious child, a reluctant antagonistic fighter pilot, and a desperate flight from unseen evil forces propel her toward a battle that will determine the fate of millions. Struggling to understand her role in this epic contest, Brae faces challenges that will push her to the brink.
Brae Thornton finally sees her dream to travel the stars come true, but her idyllic adventure shatters as the ominous forces of Lord Dracus transcend the realm of the Ruah and collide with the fate of the galaxy. When her astrotech mission to the Omega Nebula meets with fatal calamity, she is thrust into a desperate battle to survive. A mysterious child, a reluctant antagonistic fighter pilot, and a desperate flight from unseen evil forces propel her toward a battle that will determine the fate of millions. Struggling to understand her role in this epic contest, Brae faces challenges that will push her to the brink.
252 pages, Paperback
Published March 2, 2023
6 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Chuck Black
34 books762 followersChuck Black first wrote Kingdom’s Edge to inspire his children to read the Bible with renewed zeal. This captivating expanded parable led him to write the Old Testament allegories, Kingdom’s Dawn, Kingdom’s Hope, Kingdom’s Call, and Kingdom’s Quest. Chuck's currents works include the Knights of Arrethtrae series, Call to Arms, and his series in progress, Wars of the Realm.
Chuck is a former F-16 fighter pilot and currently works as an engineer for a firm designing plastic consumer products and has coinvented eleven patented construction products now being sold internationally. He has a degree in electrical and electronic engineering and served eight years in the United States Air Force. Chuck and his wife have six children and live in North Dakota.
It is Chuck’s desire to serve the Lord through his work and to inspire people of all ages to study the scriptures in order to discover the hope and love of a truly majestic King and His Son.
Chuck is a former F-16 fighter pilot and currently works as an engineer for a firm designing plastic consumer products and has coinvented eleven patented construction products now being sold internationally. He has a degree in electrical and electronic engineering and served eight years in the United States Air Force. Chuck and his wife have six children and live in North Dakota.
It is Chuck’s desire to serve the Lord through his work and to inspire people of all ages to study the scriptures in order to discover the hope and love of a truly majestic King and His Son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 24, 2024
The allegory was great, as usual, but everything else made this my least favorite in the series. It was a good book, and like I said, the faith was great, but overall I just wasn’t interested. Not a lot to say, but those are my thoughts.
February 10, 2024
That ending was SO AMAZING. Review to come!
March 26, 2025
A profound allegory of the birth and beginning of Jesus' earthly mission set against an intergalactic backdrop.
Re-read this book in preparation for Creed coming out and just as amazing as the first read through!
This book's pacing was really well done. It spanned a good chunk of time (about 3 years) and yet I was caught off guard when it ended because it just was paced so well! That being said I was a little caught off guard that it was over, but that was just me not realizing I was almost to the end. (#audiobookproblems)
Rhett and Brae were such a duo. 😂 They clashed heads horribly and multiple times I wanted to slap some sense into them But their dialogue and interactions were well-written and I loved getting to see inside both of their heads. (And both of their opinions of each other!)
The allegory is amazing. It hits so many of the crucial events of the Biblical timeline and the parallels make the story so rich!
Chuck Black is a former F-16 fighter pilot and has a degree in electrical and electronic engineering... so believe me when I say all the technically details about the "sci-fi" stuff in this are on point! Just enough to make you believe it's real without drowning you in technical jargon.
The ending is so bittersweet. 🥺 So, pardon me while I dash off to read Reclamation now! Such a great series to read as we enter the Easter season. 🙏🏻
Content Notes: Brief mention of the villain being with women he isn't married to. Mentions of death, blood, injuries. A few deaths happen on page via plasma bursts. (The last threes chapter include some more detailed descriptions of wounds/death.) A touch of romance (two hugs, brief hand-holding).
✨ 5 Stars ✨
(Amusing side note... I read this book for the first time March 20th-24th, 2024. And without meaning too, I re-read it March 22nd-25th, 2025! Seems like I need to re-read it next year so I keep up my streak! 😜)
Re-read this book in preparation for Creed coming out and just as amazing as the first read through!
This book's pacing was really well done. It spanned a good chunk of time (about 3 years) and yet I was caught off guard when it ended because it just was paced so well! That being said I was a little caught off guard that it was over, but that was just me not realizing I was almost to the end. (#audiobookproblems)
Rhett and Brae were such a duo. 😂 They clashed heads horribly and multiple times I wanted to slap some sense into them But their dialogue and interactions were well-written and I loved getting to see inside both of their heads. (And both of their opinions of each other!)
The allegory is amazing. It hits so many of the crucial events of the Biblical timeline and the parallels make the story so rich!
Chuck Black is a former F-16 fighter pilot and has a degree in electrical and electronic engineering... so believe me when I say all the technically details about the "sci-fi" stuff in this are on point! Just enough to make you believe it's real without drowning you in technical jargon.
The ending is so bittersweet. 🥺 So, pardon me while I dash off to read Reclamation now! Such a great series to read as we enter the Easter season. 🙏🏻
Content Notes: Brief mention of the villain being with women he isn't married to. Mentions of death, blood, injuries. A few deaths happen on page via plasma bursts. (The last threes chapter include some more detailed descriptions of wounds/death.) A touch of romance (two hugs, brief hand-holding).
✨ 5 Stars ✨
(Amusing side note... I read this book for the first time March 20th-24th, 2024. And without meaning too, I re-read it March 22nd-25th, 2025! Seems like I need to re-read it next year so I keep up my streak! 😜)
November 29, 2025
Okay, THIS was the best in the series this far!!! ACK!!! If I reread none of the series I would love to reread this one!! 🥰🤩🥰
April 16, 2023
Absolutely loved! This book has Christian themes throughout the entire story. It also has subtle romance throughout (closed door) which just adds to the science fiction story!
May 28, 2024
eeeeasy 5 stars, idk how the 6th book can beat that, but we shall see
August 3, 2024
"And with wisdom and age comes humility."
"It flowed inward, into the body, mind, and soul of the Son of the Sovereign, forever binding the son to the father in a fashion unknown in both realms. "
Once again, Chuck Black takes me to outerspace literally and figuratively. The pace in this story was even more crisp and exciting. I loved reading the space battles and aircraft championships too. The character work continues to be so refreshing and shows with each book the writing is so refined. The allegory is the best I have ever read in a book bar none.
CW: space battles, death, loss of a loved one, grief
"It flowed inward, into the body, mind, and soul of the Son of the Sovereign, forever binding the son to the father in a fashion unknown in both realms. "
Once again, Chuck Black takes me to outerspace literally and figuratively. The pace in this story was even more crisp and exciting. I loved reading the space battles and aircraft championships too. The character work continues to be so refreshing and shows with each book the writing is so refined. The allegory is the best I have ever read in a book bar none.
CW: space battles, death, loss of a loved one, grief
September 13, 2023
Another epic Black book!
I loved this approach to the birth of Christ! It sheds a light on and gives you another look at the struggles, the joys, the hardships, the victories surrounding the incarnation.
Brae and Rhett as Mary and Joseph were awesome. 😍 Enemies forced to work together to save a child. And I was actually surprised that they were still enemies till almost the very end of the book. I half expected them to fall in love sooner. 😉 I'm totally rooting for them, but I love the way their story is going. At least they aren't enemies anymore, though they were quite amusing to observe when they threw insults and accusations. 😁
I love how from Brae's perspective, she sees Rhett as an arrogant, self-centered, jerk-of-a-pilot, and then her Dad gently but firmly points out how humble and sacrificial he is and what courage and honor he showed by setting aside everything to help Brae. Brae saw what she wanted to see, when really, Rhett was a completely different person. They both judged each other so wrong and were too stuck up to realize it.
And I loved reading Rhett's point of view and struggles throughout as well.
As always a book to keep you on the edge of your seat, packed with action and adventure, intriguing allegory and epic si-fi!
I loved this approach to the birth of Christ! It sheds a light on and gives you another look at the struggles, the joys, the hardships, the victories surrounding the incarnation.
Brae and Rhett as Mary and Joseph were awesome. 😍 Enemies forced to work together to save a child. And I was actually surprised that they were still enemies till almost the very end of the book. I half expected them to fall in love sooner. 😉 I'm totally rooting for them, but I love the way their story is going. At least they aren't enemies anymore, though they were quite amusing to observe when they threw insults and accusations. 😁
I love how from Brae's perspective, she sees Rhett as an arrogant, self-centered, jerk-of-a-pilot, and then her Dad gently but firmly points out how humble and sacrificial he is and what courage and honor he showed by setting aside everything to help Brae. Brae saw what she wanted to see, when really, Rhett was a completely different person. They both judged each other so wrong and were too stuck up to realize it.
And I loved reading Rhett's point of view and struggles throughout as well.
As always a book to keep you on the edge of your seat, packed with action and adventure, intriguing allegory and epic si-fi!
April 23, 2023
Such an amazing book!! I totally loved it. Just as good as the other four books in the series. I wish there were more Christian authors like Chuck Black who actually know how to write a beautiful book. 10/10 from me!
August 13, 2023
I loved this book. It immediately shot up to my favorite of this series, after Oath. The way Chuck Black so thoughtfully and respectfully portrays Jesus as Jeshu, the Commander in flesh, is both brilliant and does justice to our actual Savior. If I had any critiques of the book, it was fast paced but not as in lots of action, but as in the timeline is accelerated. I understand why it is that way, it just is a little hard to follow sometimes. The only other critique I would have is Rhett and Brae’s relationship. The way they act is not necessarily unrealistic, in fact it is very human. They have such a high amount of disdain for each other because of their own assumptions and refuse to get past their pride to really acknowledge how much they need each other in the raising of Jeshu, but their relentless bickering (even when they try to stay at a truce) can be monotonous. Mr. Black did leave the story where they can hopefully be fully reconciled, and maybe even more, which I am excited to see. Aside from Rhett and Brae’s dynamic with each other their individual roles as the analogies for Mary and Joseph are incredibly well written and I appreciate the way Mr. Black gave Rhett’s perspective. Not many people attempt to look at Joseph’s point of view and I thought it was invigorating to see a fresh perspective. All in all this book is still probably my favorite of the series after Oath and it is still a 10/10 would recommend read, I am excited to see what Mr. Black does to cover Jesus’ ministry and death and the continuation of the Starlore Legacy. I NEED book 6 to come soon!
August 29, 2023
Chuck Black... I'm gonna need that next book NOW! Please write faster.
September 27, 2023
MERCHANT, Book Five in the Starlore Legacy, is another great installment of Chuck Black’s allegorical science-fiction series. This story centers around Brae Thornton and a frenemy fighter pilot named Rhett Stryker who happen upon a mysterious child adrift in space. They take the child under their wing, naming him Jeshu, and quickly realize he is more than a mere man. He is the Merchant who was foretold to come. He will save his people from the deadly results of Deitum Prime. But first he must grow. And then come the tests.
I enjoyed reading Merchant. Just as in all the previous books, Chuck’s allegory was unique, yet recognizable to the eye of someone familiar with the Gospels. I loved the scenes where we get a glimpse into what is happening in the Realm of the Ruah. We watch as Ell Yon sends his son to be the ransom for mankind, and can sense the awe and wonder of the moment. I like how Daeson’s character comes back into the picture to be the representation of John the Baptist. The starship races he had to participate in were pretty epic too!
The new characters in the book were interesting and enjoyable. Brae was a good main character. We feel her emotions well as the story progresses. I had so much fun reading the witty banter between her and Rhett, who go together about as well as oil and water. I smiled several times throughout their interactions. Over time, their constant nagging and bickering did get a little annoying and felt a bit overly childish… but then again, we all have been a little childish toward our rivals at one time or another. Rhett was a neat character though, and I’m glad that he changed over the course of the book. I also liked Jeshu pretty well (but man, that guy needs to stop playing in the MiracleGrow!)
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Chuck is really good at describing scene, setting, and character so that you can almost close your eyes and see it. And his action scenes are exhilarating! I am excited to read the next book in the series and find out what other surprises he has in store for Jeshu, Brae, Rhett, and the others.
I listened to the audio drama of Merchant, and I loved having different voice actors for the different characters. They were all good at their job, and made it easy to visualize what was going on in-scene, as if it were happening right in front of you.
Overall, I’d give Chuck Black’s Merchant a 4.5 out of 5 stars. I loved it and would certainly recommend it to my friends!
I enjoyed reading Merchant. Just as in all the previous books, Chuck’s allegory was unique, yet recognizable to the eye of someone familiar with the Gospels. I loved the scenes where we get a glimpse into what is happening in the Realm of the Ruah. We watch as Ell Yon sends his son to be the ransom for mankind, and can sense the awe and wonder of the moment. I like how Daeson’s character comes back into the picture to be the representation of John the Baptist. The starship races he had to participate in were pretty epic too!
The new characters in the book were interesting and enjoyable. Brae was a good main character. We feel her emotions well as the story progresses. I had so much fun reading the witty banter between her and Rhett, who go together about as well as oil and water. I smiled several times throughout their interactions. Over time, their constant nagging and bickering did get a little annoying and felt a bit overly childish… but then again, we all have been a little childish toward our rivals at one time or another. Rhett was a neat character though, and I’m glad that he changed over the course of the book. I also liked Jeshu pretty well (but man, that guy needs to stop playing in the MiracleGrow!)
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Chuck is really good at describing scene, setting, and character so that you can almost close your eyes and see it. And his action scenes are exhilarating! I am excited to read the next book in the series and find out what other surprises he has in store for Jeshu, Brae, Rhett, and the others.
I listened to the audio drama of Merchant, and I loved having different voice actors for the different characters. They were all good at their job, and made it easy to visualize what was going on in-scene, as if it were happening right in front of you.
Overall, I’d give Chuck Black’s Merchant a 4.5 out of 5 stars. I loved it and would certainly recommend it to my friends!
August 16, 2023
There are books that sit on my shelf awhile before I get to them, BUT The Starlore Legacy series I devour as soon as my preorder for each book comes in. I didn’t want to put Episode 5 down and it even came with me on the treadmill while I was power walking. @authorchuckblack story telling is top notch and I am a super fan! These books are great for the whole family and could be a fun read aloud together, or a poolside read.
This Space Odyssey adventure will give you things to think about, fun adventures in exploration, action packed scenes with danger and mystery and so much more. 5 of the 12 have been released and I’m waiting not so patiently for the next book launch.
Thank you Chuck Black for being a faithful storyteller that always points to our Creator!
This Space Odyssey adventure will give you things to think about, fun adventures in exploration, action packed scenes with danger and mystery and so much more. 5 of the 12 have been released and I’m waiting not so patiently for the next book launch.
Thank you Chuck Black for being a faithful storyteller that always points to our Creator!
October 4, 2023
Fifth book in the Starlore Legacy series. It was a little slow at times, but I also know he’s heavily trying to introduce new characters at this point in the story. As with the rest of the books in the series, there’s some really decent world building. The characters are endearing and I enjoy the Science Fiction.
My problem with this series has always been how close these allegories are to actual Bible stories but also so different. Now that we’ve reached the “incarnation” of the “Christ character” it rubs me the wrong way even more. Feels a little sacrilegious. I’ll probably finish the series as they come out (at least as long as I can stand it), I just almost feel like it would be a better story if the allegory wasn’t as on the nose as it was.
My problem with this series has always been how close these allegories are to actual Bible stories but also so different. Now that we’ve reached the “incarnation” of the “Christ character” it rubs me the wrong way even more. Feels a little sacrilegious. I’ll probably finish the series as they come out (at least as long as I can stand it), I just almost feel like it would be a better story if the allegory wasn’t as on the nose as it was.
August 7, 2023
Merchant was my favorite installment of the Starlore Legacy Series. The carrying on of Daeson's daughter in the story was very interesting, and I loved the tale that was told in this book, even as I was saddened by the way some things (I won't say what) happened and changed. The bickering between Brae and Rhett was entertaining as well. The allegorical aspect of this novel was most intriguing.
I recommend it to anyone who loves science fiction, adventure, and allegory. Happy reading!
I recommend it to anyone who loves science fiction, adventure, and allegory. Happy reading!
August 17, 2025
Let me preface by saying I am not a sci-fi girl but the Starlore legacy series is the exception to the rule. I love this series I love the imagination I love the realistic characters and the way Christ was portrayed in this book 🤯 and throughout the series. Above all the series although not finished definitely has re-readability
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2025
These books are biblical retellings that take place in space. This one focuses on the birth of Jesus and I wasn't sure how to feel about that story being told in space. I've borrowed the next one, so we will see how delicately the author handles this.
April 28, 2023
This book was amazing! It continued the series very well!
October 2, 2023
Merchant is by far my favorite Starlore Legacy book yet. The dynamics between the characters are excellent and the plot is very high-stakes.
Content Concerns:
Mild violence
Content Concerns:
Mild violence
April 7, 2024
Sometimes when the author has a message, it leads to an unreadable story. In this case, I read it in two sittings, & it was good, no matter whose side you are on.
December 31, 2024
My kids loved listening to this as a family and could not wait for the next chapter or the next book! Highly recommend the series!
January 22, 2026
not fantastic but if you like star trek from what I know about it you'd like this
August 31, 2023
Merchant is a compelling story that I thoroughly enjoyed. Just like “Nova” I found myself unable to put it down. Merchant explores themes of redemption, mirroring the divine love we cherish.
Merchant challenges our understanding of faith and second chances. If you have enjoyed the Starlore legacy so far, you will definitely enjoy this thought-provoking book.
Merchant challenges our understanding of faith and second chances. If you have enjoyed the Starlore legacy so far, you will definitely enjoy this thought-provoking book.
May 3, 2023
Biblical Allegory at Its Finest
This next installment in the Starlore Legacy makes a pivotal shift in the ongoing story, for this is the allegory of the birth of Christ. For those who have been following Daeson’s life from his days in Jypton (think Moses in Egypt), this is a must-read. His daughter discovers the purpose Sovereign Ell Yon has for her life, and her faith triumphs over doubt in this epic tale. Admittedly, science fiction is not a genre I typically read, but Chuck Black’s series is phenomenal and highly recommended.
This next installment in the Starlore Legacy makes a pivotal shift in the ongoing story, for this is the allegory of the birth of Christ. For those who have been following Daeson’s life from his days in Jypton (think Moses in Egypt), this is a must-read. His daughter discovers the purpose Sovereign Ell Yon has for her life, and her faith triumphs over doubt in this epic tale. Admittedly, science fiction is not a genre I typically read, but Chuck Black’s series is phenomenal and highly recommended.
April 30, 2023
Great story, another brilliant book in the series, just keeps getting better, but what a way to end the book…
September 10, 2023
Chuck Black finally came out with the next book in the Starlore Legacy. This reader is like a child waiting for Christmas as he counts down the days to the release of each new book. With twelve books planned for the series and each released a year apart, it is like the Twelve Days of Christmas! This latest installment steps into the life of Jesus Christ and His appearance to redeem humanity.
Brae Thornton wanted nothing more than to travel to the Omega Nebula and do research. But when she discovers child aboard an adrift merchant vessel that is dangerously close to the nebula, she and pilot Rhett Stryker must do whatever it takes to keep the child alive. Lord Dracus has pulled out all the stops to destroy them and the child. It will take everything they have and more to fulfill the mission Soveriegn Ell Yon has given them. But will the ever present hostility between Rae and Rhett destroy them before Dracus does?
Chuck Black personally worked on the audiobook and he did a fabulous job! Whether you read the book, listen to the audiobook, or both, this ride will be well worth it!
Brae Thornton wanted nothing more than to travel to the Omega Nebula and do research. But when she discovers child aboard an adrift merchant vessel that is dangerously close to the nebula, she and pilot Rhett Stryker must do whatever it takes to keep the child alive. Lord Dracus has pulled out all the stops to destroy them and the child. It will take everything they have and more to fulfill the mission Soveriegn Ell Yon has given them. But will the ever present hostility between Rae and Rhett destroy them before Dracus does?
Chuck Black personally worked on the audiobook and he did a fabulous job! Whether you read the book, listen to the audiobook, or both, this ride will be well worth it!
May 10, 2025
4/26/23 review
Wow! definitely five stars! I was actually surprised when I found I might like Merchant more than Oath! (Which is saying A LOT!) If you've read the other Starlore series books, I would read Merchant! This book is staying on my favorites shelf!
My praise about the book:
🤍I love how the two main characters dislike each other and have to cope with each other😂 Chuck makes you like the new characters just as much as the old!
🤍Some of the twists...
My favorite quote-----> "Are you bonded to this man? he asked flatly.
No! For goodness sakes, no! Brae exclaimed.
Good, Rivet replied.
Everyone laughed. Everyone except Rhett.
I see...you've even programmed your android to insult me, Rhett grumbled."
My dislikes:
✖Honestly nothing. Except I needed more of the book...😭
But please...the ending...Chuck Black just loves cliff hangers…
Wow! definitely five stars! I was actually surprised when I found I might like Merchant more than Oath! (Which is saying A LOT!) If you've read the other Starlore series books, I would read Merchant! This book is staying on my favorites shelf!
My praise about the book:
🤍I love how the two main characters dislike each other and have to cope with each other😂 Chuck makes you like the new characters just as much as the old!
🤍Some of the twists...
My favorite quote-----> "Are you bonded to this man? he asked flatly.
No! For goodness sakes, no! Brae exclaimed.
Good, Rivet replied.
Everyone laughed. Everyone except Rhett.
I see...you've even programmed your android to insult me, Rhett grumbled."
My dislikes:
✖Honestly nothing. Except I needed more of the book...😭
But please...the ending...Chuck Black just loves cliff hangers…
August 8, 2023
Another exciting release in the Starlore Legacy! Like every other book in the series and by this author, Merchant provides clean, wholesome entertainment for the whole family. I flew through this book, thoroughly enjoying the story, and when I was done, I found myself pondering the true Story, seeing it anew in all its splendor and pondering new insights I hadn't before considered. I'm grateful to Mr. Black for providing reading material both entertaining and edifying, and I can't wait for the release of Book #6!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews