What do you think?
Rate this book
Duty, Honor, Planet #1
Duty, Honor, Planet
Former Marine Jason McKay thinks his first assignment as a Military Intelligence officer---as the head of a protection detail for a Republic Senator's daughter on her humanitarian mission to the star colonies---will be a boring waste of time. Until Aphrodite, the agricultural colony they're touring, is invaded by an inhuman enemy that may threaten Earth, and McKay and his people are trapped far behind enemy lines.
Separated from his team during the attack, McKay has to try to keep Valerie O'Keefe, the idealistic daughter of a powerful politician, alive in the face of threats from an alien menace and a more mundane revolutionary front that is working to free the forced exiles from their servitude to the MultiCorps that run the colonies.
Meanwhile, McKay's second in command, Shannon Stark, leads the remainder of the special operations unit in an effort to sabotage the invaders in their effort to loot the resources of Aphrodite and to learn more about their true identity.
Together, these two officers fight to survive, to protect the civilians in their charge... and to do their duty.
Separated from his team during the attack, McKay has to try to keep Valerie O'Keefe, the idealistic daughter of a powerful politician, alive in the face of threats from an alien menace and a more mundane revolutionary front that is working to free the forced exiles from their servitude to the MultiCorps that run the colonies.
Meanwhile, McKay's second in command, Shannon Stark, leads the remainder of the special operations unit in an effort to sabotage the invaders in their effort to loot the resources of Aphrodite and to learn more about their true identity.
Together, these two officers fight to survive, to protect the civilians in their charge... and to do their duty.
508 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2011
689 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
About the author
Rick Partlow
213 books374 followersRick Partlow is that rarest of species, a native Floridian. Born in Tampa, he attended Florida Southern College and graduated with a degree in History and a commission in the US Army as an Infantry officer.
His lifelong love of science fiction began with Have Space Suit---Will Travel and the other Heinlein juveniles and traveled through Clifford Simak, Asimov, Clarke and on to William Gibson, Walter Jon Williams and Peter F Hamilton. And somewhere, submerged in the worlds of others, Rick began to create his own worlds.
He has written over 70 books in over a dozen different series, and his short stories have been included in many different anthologies.
He currently lives in norther Wyoming with his wife and their dog. Besides writing and reading science fiction and fantasy, he enjoys outdoor photography, hiking and camping.
His lifelong love of science fiction began with Have Space Suit---Will Travel and the other Heinlein juveniles and traveled through Clifford Simak, Asimov, Clarke and on to William Gibson, Walter Jon Williams and Peter F Hamilton. And somewhere, submerged in the worlds of others, Rick began to create his own worlds.
He has written over 70 books in over a dozen different series, and his short stories have been included in many different anthologies.
He currently lives in norther Wyoming with his wife and their dog. Besides writing and reading science fiction and fantasy, he enjoys outdoor photography, hiking and camping.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 25, 2012
This book started off promisingly enough (enough so that I bought it after reading the kindle sample), but just took a hard turn. I was on board for the alien invasion plot, but all of a sudden it turned into a hokey romance novel with which just so happened to be taking place during an alien invasion. There was moment when I reading the book which I literally thought "Hey! Remember the aliens? Remember the army attacking the world you are on? I think the ongoing drama of the love triangle/square/parallelogram/whatever can wait, right?"
My breaking point was literally when one of the female characters went up to one of male characters and literally said "I'm pregnant and I'm pretty sure the baby is yours." I couldn't take anymore after that, not after the dialogue had gone full on soap opera.
My breaking point was literally when one of the female characters went up to one of male characters and literally said "I'm pregnant and I'm pretty sure the baby is yours." I couldn't take anymore after that, not after the dialogue had gone full on soap opera.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2013
Finished Duty, Honor, Planet - by Rick Partlow a couple days ago and it turned out to be a pretty good read. At first I thought it might be a bit superficial and stereotypical, but as I read, it got better and better with a few twists that I had not expected. The action is fast paced and often enough to keep things moving well as well as complimenting the overall story line.
The story contains issues of first contact, politics of expansion, state vs corporations...To that end though, most of the characters are centered around a newly founded future SpecOps force. Several characters are introduced, but not more than can be kept track of and only 4-5 main characters. The relationships are well enough fleshed out to add some good depth to the military bent of the story, but they are not a distraction. Though there is some romance, it is not a romance novel by any stretch.
Basically, when ships travelling to the outer reaches start to disappear, a new SpecOps command is stood up and it's first mission is to chaperon the naive grown daughter of a powerful senator to one of the outer planets on a "Fact Finding" mission....Needless to say, the facts they find are not what they expected.
I have picked up the second book in the series and it looks to be even better.
The story contains issues of first contact, politics of expansion, state vs corporations...To that end though, most of the characters are centered around a newly founded future SpecOps force. Several characters are introduced, but not more than can be kept track of and only 4-5 main characters. The relationships are well enough fleshed out to add some good depth to the military bent of the story, but they are not a distraction. Though there is some romance, it is not a romance novel by any stretch.
Basically, when ships travelling to the outer reaches start to disappear, a new SpecOps command is stood up and it's first mission is to chaperon the naive grown daughter of a powerful senator to one of the outer planets on a "Fact Finding" mission....Needless to say, the facts they find are not what they expected.
I have picked up the second book in the series and it looks to be even better.
August 9, 2023
A bit grim but still a good start!
The story is a blend of a few familiar tropes with a few different factors thrown in to both “flavor” it and keep it interesting.
We begin with Jason thinking that he’s about to be negatively impacted by the after action review of a hairy situation he was thrown into. Instead he’s given a new assignment that proves to keep him busy & stretching him to the point where he’s not sure whether he’s up to the task or not!
The story is a blend of a few familiar tropes with a few different factors thrown in to both “flavor” it and keep it interesting.
We begin with Jason thinking that he’s about to be negatively impacted by the after action review of a hairy situation he was thrown into. Instead he’s given a new assignment that proves to keep him busy & stretching him to the point where he’s not sure whether he’s up to the task or not!
June 9, 2021
O!
M!
G!
"Jorge and Carmella were forcibly relocated three years ago from El Salvador, where they had been living on welfare for the previous year due to the depressed economic conditions in that state, and the obsolescence of Jorge's former occupation as a small farmer. Now that formerly proud and efficient farmer has been dumped on a hundred acres of the most desolate wasteland I have ever seen.”
“…these political exiles are left, in effect, to die in environments barely habitable by humans…."
😱
😱
😩
.
M!
G!
"Jorge and Carmella were forcibly relocated three years ago from El Salvador, where they had been living on welfare for the previous year due to the depressed economic conditions in that state, and the obsolescence of Jorge's former occupation as a small farmer. Now that formerly proud and efficient farmer has been dumped on a hundred acres of the most desolate wasteland I have ever seen.”
“…these political exiles are left, in effect, to die in environments barely habitable by humans…."
😱
😱
😩
.
Read
August 12, 2018I had a major 'wtf' moment at the start of Chapter 6 which begins with 8 paragraphs taken word for word from the previous chapter.
I automatically assumed that this was a formatting/proof-reading error, but it turns out to be a dream sequence. It was very off-putting somehow and I dnf'd at that point.
Not rating.
I automatically assumed that this was a formatting/proof-reading error, but it turns out to be a dream sequence. It was very off-putting somehow and I dnf'd at that point.
Not rating.
October 3, 2019
I could not get through this. It moves too slowly. The characters are stereotypical and flat. I could not care about any of them. The literal representation of current social issues is too obvious.
April 3, 2021
Love Shannon, don’t care much for Jason.
A well done book, fast paced, plenty of action, great storyline.
What I didn’t like was Jason he is supposed to be one of the titular characters in this book, to be he seemed disreputable and dishonorable. Sleeping with his second in command and then with another man’s fiancé, not honorable in the least bit. Not only that he can’t fight. He supposed to be an intelligence officer, a Marine with training. Shannon on the other hand was great. Can’t find any fault with her
Going on to read the next book because the storyline was very interesting it threw me for a loop. Give this series a try it’s only three books so you should enjoy it.
A well done book, fast paced, plenty of action, great storyline.
What I didn’t like was Jason he is supposed to be one of the titular characters in this book, to be he seemed disreputable and dishonorable. Sleeping with his second in command and then with another man’s fiancé, not honorable in the least bit. Not only that he can’t fight. He supposed to be an intelligence officer, a Marine with training. Shannon on the other hand was great. Can’t find any fault with her
Going on to read the next book because the storyline was very interesting it threw me for a loop. Give this series a try it’s only three books so you should enjoy it.
September 9, 2020
Good read
You owe it to yourself to read this book. The story line captures your attention, and keeps it. Looking forward to learning the fate(s) of all characters in the book. Although, I think the senator could use a slap along side his head. And, will his daughter be less self centered or continue as is. Jason and Sharon are both strong leads, as well as their troops. Good job.
You owe it to yourself to read this book. The story line captures your attention, and keeps it. Looking forward to learning the fate(s) of all characters in the book. Although, I think the senator could use a slap along side his head. And, will his daughter be less self centered or continue as is. Jason and Sharon are both strong leads, as well as their troops. Good job.
September 17, 2020
Action packed start to a new series.
Although there are many characters in this first book to remember, the book centers on a cadre of five and their evolvement into a special forces unit. The action is non-stop with interesting twists to the plot. The story will hold your attention and end with your wanting to read the entire series. I consider it to be well worth your time to read.
Although there are many characters in this first book to remember, the book centers on a cadre of five and their evolvement into a special forces unit. The action is non-stop with interesting twists to the plot. The story will hold your attention and end with your wanting to read the entire series. I consider it to be well worth your time to read.
March 4, 2021
It would have been 3 stars if the story didn't contain so many cliches. It's supposed to be military sci-fi but there were several soap opera romances. I don't mind romance in books but the insta-love relationship is usually reserved for bodice rippers and the relationships felt forced. It would have been better if the author focused more on character development and fleshed out the plot a bit more. I am undecided about reading the next book.
August 14, 2020
Duty, Honor, Plant
Duty, Honor, Planet is an epic military science fiction tale, filled with twists and turns, nonstop action and unforgettable characters. The world is intricate and well-realized and the plot is engaging, pulling you in and not letting go until the breathtaking ending. Great book, highly recommended.
Duty, Honor, Planet is an epic military science fiction tale, filled with twists and turns, nonstop action and unforgettable characters. The world is intricate and well-realized and the plot is engaging, pulling you in and not letting go until the breathtaking ending. Great book, highly recommended.
August 18, 2020
Military sci-fi series
good start to series I did enjoy it
new special ops unit find it self on colony planet when it is attack aliens but somehow still some members find some time for romance (luckily it only a small portion of the book)
my first book by Rick Partlow definitely will listen to more of his books
Ryan Burke did good job narrating this book
good start to series I did enjoy it
new special ops unit find it self on colony planet when it is attack aliens but somehow still some members find some time for romance (luckily it only a small portion of the book)
my first book by Rick Partlow definitely will listen to more of his books
Ryan Burke did good job narrating this book
February 9, 2021
Good book!
Good story, great characters, lots of action! It flowed pretty well. I have to admit, one of my favorite parts was the quotes at each chapter.
Honestly I don't know if the science works or not, I'm not an armchair scientist, but I did enjoy the techno babble. All in all, read this if you want a military science fiction fix.
Good story, great characters, lots of action! It flowed pretty well. I have to admit, one of my favorite parts was the quotes at each chapter.
Honestly I don't know if the science works or not, I'm not an armchair scientist, but I did enjoy the techno babble. All in all, read this if you want a military science fiction fix.
November 23, 2021
Exceptional quality reading and the characters grow and develop their own personal experience and the story keeps going to new heights with every passing twist and turn
Exceptional quality reading and the characters grow into their own personal experience and the plot twists and turns in many different directions
Exceptional quality reading and the characters grow into their own personal experience and the plot twists and turns in many different directions
December 6, 2020
Wonderful Experience!
Rick has created a gripping story with relatable character. And, if science fiction reflects the moral and human issues we deal with today - which it does - we can apply some of his stoeies in our daily lives and make our world a little better.
Rick has created a gripping story with relatable character. And, if science fiction reflects the moral and human issues we deal with today - which it does - we can apply some of his stoeies in our daily lives and make our world a little better.
January 1, 2021
Contrived, Unbelievable
Disappointed. I expected a more believable tale. The plot got out of hand. Too many side dalliances never allowed the storyline to develop into a cohesive whole.
Disappointed. I expected a more believable tale. The plot got out of hand. Too many side dalliances never allowed the storyline to develop into a cohesive whole.
January 7, 2021
hooope.win@gmail.com
A GREAT BOOK
A thrilling mixture of characters, adventures, & miltary sci-fi, with complicated romance stories as well. Quite the combination. Looking forward for more from Rick Partlow.
A GREAT BOOK
A thrilling mixture of characters, adventures, & miltary sci-fi, with complicated romance stories as well. Quite the combination. Looking forward for more from Rick Partlow.
January 10, 2021
A good military sci-fi read.
It is a fun and quick read that does a good job at some interesting world building.
The downside is the relationships seem forced and some of the angst a bit formulaic, but still a good read all the same.
It is a fun and quick read that does a good job at some interesting world building.
The downside is the relationships seem forced and some of the angst a bit formulaic, but still a good read all the same.
February 19, 2021
Good story
I really enjoyed the non-stop pace of this story. I enjoyed the characters, all of whom were believable. Not my first book read by Rick Partlow and won't be my last. I really like his fast paced stories.
I really enjoyed the non-stop pace of this story. I enjoyed the characters, all of whom were believable. Not my first book read by Rick Partlow and won't be my last. I really like his fast paced stories.
April 6, 2021
Another great read Rick!!
Don't know how you do it but once again you have written a story that has drawn me in...Great story line,cast,action&of course we can't forget about the snark!!
Don't know how you do it but once again you have written a story that has drawn me in...Great story line,cast,action&of course we can't forget about the snark!!
May 13, 2021
Rick Partlow does it again
I am in love with Rick Partlow's writing. His understanding of his charges is so intense that you are lost in the worlds they inhabit and you don't want to leave
I am in love with Rick Partlow's writing. His understanding of his charges is so intense that you are lost in the worlds they inhabit and you don't want to leave
August 25, 2021
So this is a bait-and-switch.
It is not a military sci-fi book, it is a soap opera romance set in space. If that's your thing this is a solid four stars. If you want a military book, keep looking.
It is not a military sci-fi book, it is a soap opera romance set in space. If that's your thing this is a solid four stars. If you want a military book, keep looking.
August 17, 2020
Amazing sci-fi, well written.
Great book, could not put it down until finished! Very well written, full of surprises. I recommend this book strongly!
Great book, could not put it down until finished! Very well written, full of surprises. I recommend this book strongly!
August 17, 2020
Wow great book
I enjoy all of this authors book. This a great new series and if you like space marine books. You’ll love this one. Great characters and story, a fun read
I enjoy all of this authors book. This a great new series and if you like space marine books. You’ll love this one. Great characters and story, a fun read
September 14, 2020
Captivating well written Military SiFi book I immediately bought the next book and am looking forward to reading it.
September 26, 2020
Great
Another series from Rick that is well written with good characters the plot was well thought out and kept the reader interested
Another series from Rick that is well written with good characters the plot was well thought out and kept the reader interested
September 28, 2020
Well written
Enjoyed this first book in the series. Good character build and action. Love the concept which lends a believable air to the plot line.
Enjoyed this first book in the series. Good character build and action. Love the concept which lends a believable air to the plot line.
October 12, 2020
A well written tale.
I enjoyed the way Rick used both of his main characters to we’ve his tale into a neat book. The ending is good. Yes she is in charge.
I enjoyed the way Rick used both of his main characters to we’ve his tale into a neat book. The ending is good. Yes she is in charge.
October 20, 2020
Rough in spots, but still an enjoyable story.
January 24, 2021
A decent book
This was a decent book with well written characters. The plot was a bit formulaic or over the top at times. But it was a decent book.
This was a decent book with well written characters. The plot was a bit formulaic or over the top at times. But it was a decent book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews