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In Her Name: The Last War #1-3
In Her Name: The Last War
This is a collection of the In Her The Last War trilogy, and includes the complete text of First Contact, Legend Of The Sword, and Dead Soul in a single volume. FIRST CONTACT The Terran survey ship Aurora makes a startling discovery in an uncharted star two planets inhabited by an advanced, and decidedly unfriendly, non-human civilization. Disabled by gigantic alien warships before it can escape, the Aurora is boarded by nightmarish blue-skinned warriors with claws and fangs who slaughter the crew in ritual combat using primitive weapons. The sole survivor, Midshipman Ichiro Sato, is returned to Earth as a messenger bearing a device that warns of an impending attack. For that is the way of the Kreelan Empire, which has waged war against countless civilizations across the stars in its quest for a savior, one not of their own blood, foretold in an ages-old prophecy. With only a few generations left before their ancient species faces extinction, the Kreelans will wage their last war against humanity, hoping against hope for redemption of sins long past. LEGEND OF THE SWORD As Earth and the other worlds of the Confederation bind their wounds after the disastrous first battle with the alien Kreelan Empire, Ichiro Sato finds himself in command of the heavy cruiser Yura. His ship is one of many in the task force sailing for the renegade planet of Saint Petersburg, which Confederation intelligence sources believe has not only secretly built a fleet of warships to attack the Confederation, but has armed its ships with nuclear weapons, which have been outlawed in the human sphere for centuries. Drawn into a deadly trap, the Confederation fleet and its Marines are fighting for their lives when Kreelan warships, led by the enigmatic warrior priestess Tesh-Dar, materialize out of hyperspace. As Tesh-Dar and her warriors wreak havoc on the humans, Ichiro, former Legionnaire Roland Mills, and a Confederation spy known as Scarlet, are faced with desperate choices from which they learn the true meaning of sacrifice. DEAD SOUL Three years after the brutal first contact encounter with the alien Kreelan Empire, the Confederation is desperate for a victory. With over a dozen worlds under siege by legions of Kreelan warriors, President McKenna orders her military leaders to deliver a victory, no matter the cost, to give humanity hope. Ichiro Sato, his wife Steph, Roland Mills, Scarlet, and the irrepressible General James Sparks are once again at the sharp end of the spear in a mission to take back the colony of Alger’s World from the alien invaders before the Kreelans have exterminated the human population. But overwhelming firepower may not be enough. For leading the Kreelans is Ku’ar-Marekh, a warrior priestess who is feared even among her own kind. With her spirit trapped between life and death, drawn to war from a lonely sojourn among distant stars, she is known as the Dead Soul…
796 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2011
41 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Michael R. Hicks
30 books1,493 followersBorn in 1963, Michael Hicks grew up in the age of the Apollo program and spent his youth glued to the television watching the original Star Trek series and other science fiction movies, which continues to be a source of entertainment and inspiration. Having spent the majority of his life as a voracious reader, he has been heavily influenced by writers ranging from Robert Heinlein to David Weber, and many in between. Having finally retired from government service, Michael and his lovely wife, along with their Siberan cat, Nina, are enjoying life as expats in France.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 7, 2014
This is in fact a trilogy of three separate novels, written as a prequel to the author's first trilogy, In her Name: Redemption, and it covers humanity's first contact with the alien Kreelan Empire and the beginning of the war with them.
Initially a suggestion from a work colleague, this has been a thoroughly enjoyable read, ride, whatever you want to call it. The main characters are well fleshed out, even likable to the point of caring what happens to them, but the real prize is how Hicks shows us things from alien's point of view as well. We get some understanding of how they think, their way of life and almost come to care about some of them as well.
The first book, "In Her Name: First Contact", deals with our first, disasterous meeting with the empire and the beginning of the war.
The second novel, "In Her Name: Legend of the Sword", is set six months on. Humanity has formed a confederation to defend our worlds but some don't believe the threat is real, don't want to join and are actively planing their own offensive...against Earth. Legend of the Sword is also the title of the Kreelan warrior priestess Tesh-Dar, whom we've already met in book one, and this too is her story.
The third tale, "In Her Name: Dead Soul" is set three years after first contact and around a mission to take back the colony of Alger’s World from the alien invaders before the Kreelans have exterminated the human population. It also introduces us to Ku’ar-Marekh, a Kreelan warrior priestess feared even among her own kind.
All in all, this trilogy is a thumping good read and I'd be surprised if any fan of science-fiction didn't enjoy it. Sure, the logistics of how an alien race like the Kreelans could have developed for so long given their breeding limitations don't really add up but, viable or not, they make a fearsome enemy. On to the next trilogy I go and I hope it's at least as good as this one.
Initially a suggestion from a work colleague, this has been a thoroughly enjoyable read, ride, whatever you want to call it. The main characters are well fleshed out, even likable to the point of caring what happens to them, but the real prize is how Hicks shows us things from alien's point of view as well. We get some understanding of how they think, their way of life and almost come to care about some of them as well.
The first book, "In Her Name: First Contact", deals with our first, disasterous meeting with the empire and the beginning of the war.
The second novel, "In Her Name: Legend of the Sword", is set six months on. Humanity has formed a confederation to defend our worlds but some don't believe the threat is real, don't want to join and are actively planing their own offensive...against Earth. Legend of the Sword is also the title of the Kreelan warrior priestess Tesh-Dar, whom we've already met in book one, and this too is her story.
The third tale, "In Her Name: Dead Soul" is set three years after first contact and around a mission to take back the colony of Alger’s World from the alien invaders before the Kreelans have exterminated the human population. It also introduces us to Ku’ar-Marekh, a Kreelan warrior priestess feared even among her own kind.
All in all, this trilogy is a thumping good read and I'd be surprised if any fan of science-fiction didn't enjoy it. Sure, the logistics of how an alien race like the Kreelans could have developed for so long given their breeding limitations don't really add up but, viable or not, they make a fearsome enemy. On to the next trilogy I go and I hope it's at least as good as this one.
February 18, 2012
I do not normally read sci-fi, especially military sci-fi but this was a fantastic read. This is actually three books "In Her Name: First Contact", "Legend of the Sword", and "Dead Soul". This trilogy is a prequel to the first book "In Her Name: Empire", which I read a while ago. The human race is under attack by an alien civilization, the "Kreelans". I was surprised by how much I cared about the Kreelans even though they were the "enemy". The author has a way of making this series as much about the Kreelans and their survival as it is about the human race surviving. I even shed a tear or two when a favorite character, on either side of the conflict, died. I highly recommend this series and am looking forward to reading the continuing story of Reza in "Confederation".
December 11, 2012
Simply one of the best sci-fi stories I've read or seen so far.
I really like how the characters are presented and how the story is being unveiled and how key moments are presented from several different perspectives.
As much as I enjoy reading about possible future technologies, computers, space ships and stuff like that I've also found the story and the mythology behind the Kreelan empire very interesting and can't wait to read more about it.
I strongly recommend the series to everyone who likes science-fiction and/or fantasy !
I really like how the characters are presented and how the story is being unveiled and how key moments are presented from several different perspectives.
As much as I enjoy reading about possible future technologies, computers, space ships and stuff like that I've also found the story and the mythology behind the Kreelan empire very interesting and can't wait to read more about it.
I strongly recommend the series to everyone who likes science-fiction and/or fantasy !
July 15, 2020
Slow start
For me, it was a bit of a challenge when I started reading this series. But I am extremely happy that I kept going. I couldn’t put it down! Great story without the need to always have a HEA.
For me, it was a bit of a challenge when I started reading this series. But I am extremely happy that I kept going. I couldn’t put it down! Great story without the need to always have a HEA.
July 2, 2019
Excellent science fiction and good way to pass the hours under a summer sun.
May 18, 2021
love this series. this last book was not as compelling but tied up all the loose ends. got a little out there with Reza's survival but re arranging those molecules is a serious talent.
June 29, 2012
I have the, "In her name: omnibus" (which is pretty much one and the same) and i have to say in the essence of sci-fi novels Mr. Hicks hit the mark by creating a universe mixed with danger, friendship, loyalty, and love that covers and expands the last war trilogy. without spoiling the story, it follows Reza gard as a child losing his parents and taken by the very race that plunged his galaxy into turmoil. Forced as a slave with other childeren and placed in the worst conditions no person should be placed in reza is seen as a gifted boy with a destiny on his shoulders and the rest is history.
The direction of the author places Reza from earth to the planet of his captors where is fate is revealed as well the real story of friendship begins; the author gives great visualzations to the minds eye of the planets you will visit as you read this saga that sudden grow into an epic tale of survival among the stars. If there's a novel the put originality to the concept its definately the In Her Name series, dont close your eyes on this tale it will surprise you!
The direction of the author places Reza from earth to the planet of his captors where is fate is revealed as well the real story of friendship begins; the author gives great visualzations to the minds eye of the planets you will visit as you read this saga that sudden grow into an epic tale of survival among the stars. If there's a novel the put originality to the concept its definately the In Her Name series, dont close your eyes on this tale it will surprise you!
November 16, 2013
For a book series I discovered completely cold by browsing the Kindle charts and noticing the first of the trilogy was freely available and figuring it was at least worth a punt, I was pleasantly surprised by this. When the central meat of the story finally gets going the action is pretty good. And it's the battles that this is really all about.
Each of the stories starts with a slow setup and then it kicks the fighting up and it's non-stop until the wrap-up at the end. I like the action portions which are mostly just two sides facing off against each other, with the odd bit of technology here and there. Fortunately there's a ground and space aspect to the fighting so the stories flit back and forth; some parts focus more on the space battles than on the ground.
I was never too wild about the alien side of the story - too much honour and sameness - but as a straight-forward action story in a SciFi setting I was quite content overall.
Each of the stories starts with a slow setup and then it kicks the fighting up and it's non-stop until the wrap-up at the end. I like the action portions which are mostly just two sides facing off against each other, with the odd bit of technology here and there. Fortunately there's a ground and space aspect to the fighting so the stories flit back and forth; some parts focus more on the space battles than on the ground.
I was never too wild about the alien side of the story - too much honour and sameness - but as a straight-forward action story in a SciFi setting I was quite content overall.
January 29, 2013
I read a lot of sci-fi, this was a fantastic read.
The Last War is three books "In Her Name: First Contact", "Legend of the Sword", and "Dead Soul".
The human race is under attack by an honourable war obsessed alien civilization, the "Kreelans". The Kreelans believe that there is nothing greater than the honour of fighting for there race in equal combat, the author has a way of making this series as much about the Kreelans and their survival as it is about humans and there survival.
If you like military setting space opera's I highly recommend this series.
The Last War is three books "In Her Name: First Contact", "Legend of the Sword", and "Dead Soul".
The human race is under attack by an honourable war obsessed alien civilization, the "Kreelans". The Kreelans believe that there is nothing greater than the honour of fighting for there race in equal combat, the author has a way of making this series as much about the Kreelans and their survival as it is about humans and there survival.
If you like military setting space opera's I highly recommend this series.
May 7, 2014
Too much emphasis on military strategy and engagement for my taste. But, the story more than made up for that with the inclusion of great character development and interplay.
The overarching storyline is original and contains plenty of plot points along the way that will keep readers intrigued and coming back for more.
Speaking of which, I plan to read the next in the series, specifically the sub-series trilogy In Her Name: Redemption.
The overarching storyline is original and contains plenty of plot points along the way that will keep readers intrigued and coming back for more.
Speaking of which, I plan to read the next in the series, specifically the sub-series trilogy In Her Name: Redemption.
October 26, 2015
Summary: Really excellent set of books. Military SF with elements of fantasy thrown in, but it all works. Loads of action, idiocy, heroism, everything. The aliens are really alien. And the writing puts the reader right in with the action
Plotline: Large scope, well thought out, simple in some ways with many surprises
Premise: Brilliant but spooky in places
Writing: Good characterization, compelling reading
Ending: Oh yes. We lose the battle, but the war continues
Pace: Never a dull moment!
Plotline: Large scope, well thought out, simple in some ways with many surprises
Premise: Brilliant but spooky in places
Writing: Good characterization, compelling reading
Ending: Oh yes. We lose the battle, but the war continues
Pace: Never a dull moment!
August 2, 2012
A prequel to the other 'In Her Name' trilogy ... this series instantly transported me back into that world in an often scary but fantastic way. These six books weave such a world and are a great read if you are into any sort of science fiction/fantasy. Outstanding!
September 12, 2012
One of the few books I have found recently that I could not wait to finish. On the one hand, I love getting to the end to know what happens; on the other hand, I hate when it's over. Happily, there is another trilogy I can start on right away!
June 19, 2014
Fun read.
Enjoyed the story. Interesting take on how alien species view things, yes, this includes humans. Looking forward to the first trilogy and seeing how humanity deals with their threat to survival.
Enjoyed the story. Interesting take on how alien species view things, yes, this includes humans. Looking forward to the first trilogy and seeing how humanity deals with their threat to survival.
January 10, 2015
Wonderful story & actually individual & unique! Loved it. I've now read the whole series & couldn't wait to find out what happened to all the characters, especially the one alien that follows through the whole series. Wonderful.
February 29, 2016
Superb
Loved this book & the entire series. Did not want it to end. Excellent plotting, wonderful, believable characters, interesting locales. Just all around great reading if you like can't put it down, seat of your pans excitement & a story that keeps you on edge.
Loved this book & the entire series. Did not want it to end. Excellent plotting, wonderful, believable characters, interesting locales. Just all around great reading if you like can't put it down, seat of your pans excitement & a story that keeps you on edge.
June 4, 2019
One of few well written series!
I have been a fan of the author’s imagination in creating these books. The last war trilogy was a well paced saga of how it all began between humans and kreelans. The characters are great and plot is excellent as the other trilogies. Must read!
I have been a fan of the author’s imagination in creating these books. The last war trilogy was a well paced saga of how it all began between humans and kreelans. The characters are great and plot is excellent as the other trilogies. Must read!
April 20, 2012
I enjoy Michael Hicks' novels... He writes a good story, moves it along, and there are none (or very few) grammatical errors that raise the hackles on my spine!
February 6, 2016
Mixed bag
Ended up skim reading most of the last book which is never a good sign. Still enjoyed some parts and it's mostly an enjoyable enough read.
Ended up skim reading most of the last book which is never a good sign. Still enjoyed some parts and it's mostly an enjoyable enough read.
December 26, 2013
This was definitely a fun read. I'm really curious what happens later in the saga...
July 21, 2014
too many long boring parts
July 9, 2015
A very well crafted and well thought out read.
It's interesting to read a story that tells of events that happen from more than 1 point of view and relatively the same time.
It's interesting to read a story that tells of events that happen from more than 1 point of view and relatively the same time.
February 5, 2017
Enjoyable read. Shows both sides fairly well and really allows you to enjoy the characters.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews