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The Legend of ZERO #2
Zero Recall
(Imported from Amazon.com)
PARASITE PUBLICATIONS ~ Character Sci-Fi
It's been 53 turns after the legendary Commander Zero graduated as a Congie warrior. Joe, now a battle hardened veteran, has spent his life surviving wars he had no right to survive. Yet his real test is coming: New forces are conspiring to start a great war like the universe has never been seen, one that would rip apart the very fabric of Congress. Joe is conscripted to fight the very war everyone has been fearing since the rise of the Dhasha—the war against the legendary Dhasha Vahlin. Unfortunately for Joe, at the same time, other ruthless powers are conspiring to kill him before he fulfills the prophecy of the Trith.
To fight the Vahlin, a desperate Congress comes up with a tactic it abandoned millennia ago—the use of multi-species groundteams. Joe, now a Prime Commander, is given command of his own team of misfits and pitted against the Vahlin’s forces in a war whose casualties are millions-to-one. Can Joe keep his group of aliens from killing each other long enough to make them into a battle-ready team? Will he survive long enough to kill the Vahlin? Or is he destined to destroy Congress, as the Trith have prophesized about him?
PARASITE PUBLICATIONS ~ Character Sci-Fi
It's been 53 turns after the legendary Commander Zero graduated as a Congie warrior. Joe, now a battle hardened veteran, has spent his life surviving wars he had no right to survive. Yet his real test is coming: New forces are conspiring to start a great war like the universe has never been seen, one that would rip apart the very fabric of Congress. Joe is conscripted to fight the very war everyone has been fearing since the rise of the Dhasha—the war against the legendary Dhasha Vahlin. Unfortunately for Joe, at the same time, other ruthless powers are conspiring to kill him before he fulfills the prophecy of the Trith.
To fight the Vahlin, a desperate Congress comes up with a tactic it abandoned millennia ago—the use of multi-species groundteams. Joe, now a Prime Commander, is given command of his own team of misfits and pitted against the Vahlin’s forces in a war whose casualties are millions-to-one. Can Joe keep his group of aliens from killing each other long enough to make them into a battle-ready team? Will he survive long enough to kill the Vahlin? Or is he destined to destroy Congress, as the Trith have prophesized about him?
600 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2013
693 people are currently reading
831 people want to read
About the author
Sara King
21 books786 followersAfter a long, twisted road, Alaskan Fury is my 15th book. The rest (aside from the first five or so ‘practice books’) spent the last 3-6 years languishing on my hard drive as I waited for some really cool editor at a big, traditional publishing house to notice me. It didn’t happen, even with a world-famous agent doing his damnedest to get my books out there.
So, because I’ve got a stubborn streak a mile wide—and some say because I’m a naïve, dumbass Alaskan—I’m striking out on my own and putting my books out there. Basically casting my dice to the Fates, and seeing what happens. If you like my books, please tell your friends. I don’t have a huge advertising team behind me, so word-of-mouth really helps.
On that note, my books never went through a copyeditor. What you see is the result of a few dedicated volunteers, all of whom have poured untold hours into the crafting of the book in your hands. They are awesome, steeped in awesome, sprinkled with awesome. Thanks, guys!
Further, I write fast. I can easily write 6 novels a year—8 if I don’t get distracted—and during those long years waiting for somebody to notice me, I was finding myself in the extremely frustrating position of watching my manuscripts pile up because traditional publishing companies can only take 1 or 2 novels by a single author a year. Keep an eye out for a bunch of new books from yours truly, as I've finally got an outlet for all that creative drive. :) Enjoy!
I can be reached at: kingnovel@gmail.com
Friend me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kingfiction
So, because I’ve got a stubborn streak a mile wide—and some say because I’m a naïve, dumbass Alaskan—I’m striking out on my own and putting my books out there. Basically casting my dice to the Fates, and seeing what happens. If you like my books, please tell your friends. I don’t have a huge advertising team behind me, so word-of-mouth really helps.
On that note, my books never went through a copyeditor. What you see is the result of a few dedicated volunteers, all of whom have poured untold hours into the crafting of the book in your hands. They are awesome, steeped in awesome, sprinkled with awesome. Thanks, guys!
Further, I write fast. I can easily write 6 novels a year—8 if I don’t get distracted—and during those long years waiting for somebody to notice me, I was finding myself in the extremely frustrating position of watching my manuscripts pile up because traditional publishing companies can only take 1 or 2 novels by a single author a year. Keep an eye out for a bunch of new books from yours truly, as I've finally got an outlet for all that creative drive. :) Enjoy!
I can be reached at: kingnovel@gmail.com
Friend me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kingfiction
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
June 30, 2013
This review may not be perfectly coherent because I just had a several day long Zero binge. I'm reviewing Zero Recall first since it's freshest in my memory right now.
After flying through the last 75% of Forging Zero, I immediately started reading Zero Recall. I always brace myself when going into sequels because they have a tendency to crash and burn. Since I loved Forging Zero so much, I was terrified I wouldn't love Zero Recall to the same extent. The huge time gap also made me nervous, since there's something so intriguing about the child-commander concept. I was afraid that a grown-up Zero would lose a bit of the magic. Turns out, I had nothing to fear.
By the time my Kindle's progress bar showed 5%, I was already completely sucked into Zero Recall. The new characters are fascinating and the different POVs make the story even more ominous. I ended up pulling an all-nighter to finish the book, even though I pulled an all-nighter just a few days ago to finish the first book.
There were times when I was a bit confused, though I blame that on my rush to find out what happened next. I suspect I'll answer most of my questions when I reread at a more reasonable pace. The twists and turns really took me by surprise, especially the ending. I have a lot of questions that I will not get answered until Zero's Return!
I think it's so amazing that Sara King has written these books so quickly, and I'm so thankful that we shouldn't have to wait too long for the next few books in this series!
5/5 stars
After flying through the last 75% of Forging Zero, I immediately started reading Zero Recall. I always brace myself when going into sequels because they have a tendency to crash and burn. Since I loved Forging Zero so much, I was terrified I wouldn't love Zero Recall to the same extent. The huge time gap also made me nervous, since there's something so intriguing about the child-commander concept. I was afraid that a grown-up Zero would lose a bit of the magic. Turns out, I had nothing to fear.
By the time my Kindle's progress bar showed 5%, I was already completely sucked into Zero Recall. The new characters are fascinating and the different POVs make the story even more ominous. I ended up pulling an all-nighter to finish the book, even though I pulled an all-nighter just a few days ago to finish the first book.
There were times when I was a bit confused, though I blame that on my rush to find out what happened next. I suspect I'll answer most of my questions when I reread at a more reasonable pace. The twists and turns really took me by surprise, especially the ending. I have a lot of questions that I will not get answered until Zero's Return!
I think it's so amazing that Sara King has written these books so quickly, and I'm so thankful that we shouldn't have to wait too long for the next few books in this series!
5/5 stars
April 8, 2013
Ok I marked this one with a 5 because I love the idea of living mold. The thought of seeing some fuzzy thing on the bark of a tree that can communicate and has an active intelligence intrigues me. With this story I found myself at times a little confused and realized I was trying to hard to figure out some predictable ending. Ms King is nowhere near predictable which means I was giving myself headaches and getting slightly grumpy in my quest to figure it all out. I recommend when you finish this book the first time you go back over the 1st chapter, it looks entirely different once you know where it's headed. In reality I enjoyed reading the entire book a second time. I found myself picking up on so many ques I hadn't noticed before. I guess I'm just used to everyone writing the same cookie cutter books where I know the answer before I'm 1/3 of the way through it. This book, thankfully, does not fit that cookie cutter mold.
Ms King, thanks for the good read, keep it up. I'm ready for the next one. :)
Ms King, thanks for the good read, keep it up. I'm ready for the next one. :)
September 4, 2016
It's a very good Space Opera, also a buddy book with a lot of action, and very fun.
Tremendous characters, very good story.
If you're in Sci Fi like Jack Vance's that book is meant for you.
Even better than Forging Zero.
Tremendous characters, very good story.
If you're in Sci Fi like Jack Vance's that book is meant for you.
Even better than Forging Zero.
October 12, 2014
Of the new sci-fi series that I've read in the last few years, this is one of 3 that gets five stars from me. This book made for several almost-sleepless nights, as it was virtually impossible to put down. Often the second book in the series doesn't live up to the first one, but Zero Recall exceeded my expectations. It has everything, and I mean everything, you would want in your sci-fi: adventure, epic battles, unpredictable complex plot lines, intriguingly different species, amazing world-building, unlikely friendship, humor, and memorable characters that you care about.
The only nit I have with this book is the character names/races, some of which are hard to pronounce and keep separate - it slows down my reading speed quite a bit when I have to stop and think about which race is which. I highly recommend marking the sections in Forging Zero and Zero Recall where the races are described. And I referred back to the original prophecies in Forging Zero too quite a few times.
At the end of the book, the author recommends re-reading a couple of chapters, which is definitely worth doing. And even though it's one in a series of books, you aren't left hanging at the end - one of my pet peeves. I just hope the other books in the series come out quickly - they are definitely on my must read list!
The only nit I have with this book is the character names/races, some of which are hard to pronounce and keep separate - it slows down my reading speed quite a bit when I have to stop and think about which race is which. I highly recommend marking the sections in Forging Zero and Zero Recall where the races are described. And I referred back to the original prophecies in Forging Zero too quite a few times.
At the end of the book, the author recommends re-reading a couple of chapters, which is definitely worth doing. And even though it's one in a series of books, you aren't left hanging at the end - one of my pet peeves. I just hope the other books in the series come out quickly - they are definitely on my must read list!
September 7, 2013
This is one of the best new entries in the SF market - begins with Forging Zero which is an Ender's Game for grownups. Sara King does dialogue and plots v. well and v. intricately. The second - Zero Recall - is better than the first: more amazing aliens, more interspecies friendships, more carefully crafted plotlines with different POVs - all this securely tethered to the wonderful human hero - Joe. The thankfully long books are never boring, largely because the nonhuman species are well conceived (and surprised me - the Barga was just fantastic). While there are many aspects derivative of other's work, that's pretty much the rule for SF - and the author has selected the things I like the most - references words that are rarely explained (think Ridley Walker or Feersum Enjin), new aliens (think old Jack Chalker Well of Worlds), intricate plotting (Iain M Banks RIP).
Interestingly 3 of my favorite new authors started out self-publishing (free or nearly so) - Brent Weeks (both Way of Shadows and Black Prism), Mike Shevdon (61 nails) and now Sara King. I've been most happy to pay money after my freebie for every book they write.
Interestingly 3 of my favorite new authors started out self-publishing (free or nearly so) - Brent Weeks (both Way of Shadows and Black Prism), Mike Shevdon (61 nails) and now Sara King. I've been most happy to pay money after my freebie for every book they write.
July 9, 2013
I feared, after finishing Forging Zero, that the series would fall into the common trap that successful series fall into, and devolve into a serial string of adventure-of-the-week stories, with no overall progress or change. However, Zero Recall managed to completely avoid this mistake, introducing changes in Zero himself, as well as shifting the focus of the story. I would argue that this book is not so much about Zero as it is about the development and expansion of about three of his sidekicks/enemies. And it is by no means a repeat of the first book with a different setting. It is a completely different sort of story.
The plot line was quite well-crafted and intricate, without being too contrived. What I really love is when there is an intricate storyline like this that spans several books. There are some hints that King is planning a very vast storyline, but most of the complicated parts of this story seem to have fit into this book without spilling over.
The plot line was quite well-crafted and intricate, without being too contrived. What I really love is when there is an intricate storyline like this that spans several books. There are some hints that King is planning a very vast storyline, but most of the complicated parts of this story seem to have fit into this book without spilling over.
December 6, 2014
Vp;i,e 2 in the Legend of Zero series is the best of a good good series. Action packed as was the first book, but with delightful character development of featured alien characters and a surprise plot twist.One should definitely read Forging Zero first to get the background for this story.
My rating system (* = star)
1* couldn't finish book
2* finished book, but didn't like it
3* a good read
4* a very good read often with a novel concept or unusual plot
5* an exceptionally good read, a prominent example of the genre
My rating system (* = star)
1* couldn't finish book
2* finished book, but didn't like it
3* a good read
4* a very good read often with a novel concept or unusual plot
5* an exceptionally good read, a prominent example of the genre
October 19, 2013
My review of Zero Recall is meant to explore why this book is a special contribution to space fiction. I will list some points to help you see whether you might want to step into the world of this book.
The writing can bring you into another world.
The writing creates a new world and brings you into a different time, place and reality. The role of planetary-ops, to which Zero is recalled, is to maintain the peace between Dasha, Jreet, Jahual, Genuji, Baga and the three thousand other species that are part of the Congress. We have to learn the traits, roles and loyalties of several races to follow the story. The author weaves fascinating characters, who were born on different worlds and belong to tribes with their own motivations, into one unified story. This book takes you to places crossing from truth to fiction, fantasy and imagination. New worlds are brought to life in this book. The world and worlds of this story intrigues the reader and introduces characters and a central mystery.
This is a big mystery story.
The first book in the series was military fiction. This book is keeping secrets, there are things going on that the characters within the story do not know and the readers do not know. We readers take a journey to find out why things are happening and who is gaining at each turn. With each passing page we become immersed inside a mystery that will affect our feeling and opinions about different characters. If you like mysteries you will probably appreciate the twists and turns on the way to revelation.
There are many interesting detailed, well-developed characters.
We know Zero from the first book. Zero is more and less than he was before. Our attitudes go through several changes as we see Maggie as his commander. We don’t trust Maggie, but we don’t know why, she should be friends and more with Zero, shouldn’t she be? Is Davlin just the mindless killing machine on the team, or does he have a more textured rule to play? Can Jer’ait be trusted, or will he betray Zero as everyone warns Zero will happen? Is Baga going to be a useful team member or is he just trouble? Forgotten is controlling some events like a puppet master, but what does he control and where are events beyond his control. What does the future hold for Rat, and will Zero and Rat ever have a more than military relationship? What is the secret about Zero’s brother? Will we learn more about his brother, Sam, and how has he changed from the child Zero saved years earlier. The relationship between characters is complex and multi-layered. I want to know what happens next with character’s development and future interactions.
There are embedded secrets, change and surprises.
Many mysteries are untangled in the course of the story. There are surprises about Zero’s old team. And the members of his new team are all more than they seem. The new team begins as divided individuals and they are almost unable to work together, but move to depend on each other and become inseparable. I became more and more invested in the relationship between the team members. Individuals grow and develop, enemies becoming partners, friends becoming enemies and strangers become friends. Such is the nature of well developed stories that can hold the readers attention.
I am waiting for what comes next.
The book leaves me wanting more. While we get closure with many mysteries revealed, I still want to know where some stories are going. I still do not know what the game of the Trith is, except they hate Congress. I don’t know if Zero will find love. I don’t know who is not who they seem; OK, this was a pet peeve of mine, I don’t like people being someone else who is imitating a friend. I do like that the story is embedded with future clues that are hidden. I followed the author’s suggestion to re-read chapter 1 and chapter 5, and saw the hints she had tucked away to be revealed on the second reading. I am even looking forward to a second reading of the whole book to see how my appreciation of the story might change. I enjoyed this book and am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. I would say the most likely audience is people who are more interested in character driven stories than tech or military driven stories. This book has fighting and war, but is not just a military story. I would recommend reading the first book in the series first, but realize the first Zero book is much darker and has a different feel than this book. Also prospective readers should read The Moldy Dead short story before reading this sequel. Give it a try, I think you will like it, although it might disrupt your sleep pattern as you forget to go to sleep when you refuse to put it down!
The writing can bring you into another world.
The writing creates a new world and brings you into a different time, place and reality. The role of planetary-ops, to which Zero is recalled, is to maintain the peace between Dasha, Jreet, Jahual, Genuji, Baga and the three thousand other species that are part of the Congress. We have to learn the traits, roles and loyalties of several races to follow the story. The author weaves fascinating characters, who were born on different worlds and belong to tribes with their own motivations, into one unified story. This book takes you to places crossing from truth to fiction, fantasy and imagination. New worlds are brought to life in this book. The world and worlds of this story intrigues the reader and introduces characters and a central mystery.
This is a big mystery story.
The first book in the series was military fiction. This book is keeping secrets, there are things going on that the characters within the story do not know and the readers do not know. We readers take a journey to find out why things are happening and who is gaining at each turn. With each passing page we become immersed inside a mystery that will affect our feeling and opinions about different characters. If you like mysteries you will probably appreciate the twists and turns on the way to revelation.
There are many interesting detailed, well-developed characters.
We know Zero from the first book. Zero is more and less than he was before. Our attitudes go through several changes as we see Maggie as his commander. We don’t trust Maggie, but we don’t know why, she should be friends and more with Zero, shouldn’t she be? Is Davlin just the mindless killing machine on the team, or does he have a more textured rule to play? Can Jer’ait be trusted, or will he betray Zero as everyone warns Zero will happen? Is Baga going to be a useful team member or is he just trouble? Forgotten is controlling some events like a puppet master, but what does he control and where are events beyond his control. What does the future hold for Rat, and will Zero and Rat ever have a more than military relationship? What is the secret about Zero’s brother? Will we learn more about his brother, Sam, and how has he changed from the child Zero saved years earlier. The relationship between characters is complex and multi-layered. I want to know what happens next with character’s development and future interactions.
There are embedded secrets, change and surprises.
Many mysteries are untangled in the course of the story. There are surprises about Zero’s old team. And the members of his new team are all more than they seem. The new team begins as divided individuals and they are almost unable to work together, but move to depend on each other and become inseparable. I became more and more invested in the relationship between the team members. Individuals grow and develop, enemies becoming partners, friends becoming enemies and strangers become friends. Such is the nature of well developed stories that can hold the readers attention.
I am waiting for what comes next.
The book leaves me wanting more. While we get closure with many mysteries revealed, I still want to know where some stories are going. I still do not know what the game of the Trith is, except they hate Congress. I don’t know if Zero will find love. I don’t know who is not who they seem; OK, this was a pet peeve of mine, I don’t like people being someone else who is imitating a friend. I do like that the story is embedded with future clues that are hidden. I followed the author’s suggestion to re-read chapter 1 and chapter 5, and saw the hints she had tucked away to be revealed on the second reading. I am even looking forward to a second reading of the whole book to see how my appreciation of the story might change. I enjoyed this book and am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. I would say the most likely audience is people who are more interested in character driven stories than tech or military driven stories. This book has fighting and war, but is not just a military story. I would recommend reading the first book in the series first, but realize the first Zero book is much darker and has a different feel than this book. Also prospective readers should read The Moldy Dead short story before reading this sequel. Give it a try, I think you will like it, although it might disrupt your sleep pattern as you forget to go to sleep when you refuse to put it down!
October 9, 2016
Sara King doesn't mess around. She gets right to the action, right into the story and slams the reader right into the future universe she created in which earth has been invaded, subjugated and forced to integrate into Congress, a league of worlds so diverse and complex that humans are just a minor player. King's protagonist is Joe Dobbs, who was recruited or forced into service as a kid into the Congies, or congressional army. The first book in the series is all about how Joe deals with the intensity of becoming a soldier when every other life form is tougher and more bloodthirsty than the soft humans. This second installment "Zero Recall" picks up the story of Joe Dobbs 53 years later. He's been a soldier the entire time. Now he's an old guy, still kicking because of technological advances provided by the alien races that belong to Congress. Dobbs returns to earth to find the brother he saved from going to war. But mostly he finds himself in a bottle, wallowing in self pity. King lets this part of the book drag a bit, but she does it to make a point and set up the rest of the novel. Joe really has nothing to live for. And his brother turns out to be some sort of notorious criminal. The two don't get to connect before Joe's redrafted into the army after a planet is blown to pieces and the Dhasha have decided to break with Congress. The Dhasha are a nasty but powerful and brilliant race of dragon-like beings that have natural near-impenetrable armor, making their demise very difficult. Joe is teamed with various alien beings to root out the rogue Dhasha on a planet where they've made a stand. The assault results in massive losses for the Congies, but Joe and his crew find a way to work together. The characters and dialogue is fascinating. King has a real ability to travel in directions the reader cannot easily predict. Meanwhile she plots intrigue in a secondary plot that pulls all the pieces together. There's a major play going on and Joe's simply a puzzle piece. He's not anything special. Yet, he's important beyond measure. King makes this the best part of her story. An old soldier holds the fate of the known universe in his hands. And the action is nothing short of totally intense. This is among the best military science fiction I've read. In fact, King is so intense and her stories so graphic and personal that I've got to take them in moderation. Not that I'm going to pay attention this time. I will read the next installment very soon.
April 28, 2016
This book BLEW MY MIND! I had been told by one of the friends who recommended this book that it takes place with (essentially) an entirely new set of characters, and a significant amount of time later. Initially, I thought I would struggle with that, but I got right into this book. Every bit of this book is filled with details linking back to other bits and details. Sara King wove a very intricate web of stories that I've been told is topped in the third book.
I admit the very first chapter seemed like an interesting way to start. It was confusing (possibly because I didn't read the short story "The Moldy Dead.") to me, but it still had bits of information that resonated through the story, even though I didn't realize it. Time and again, I'd read something and the implication of it would ring in the back of my head, but I couldn't quite place it. There were bits that were confusing, but it would suddenly fit at the end of a chapter. Then finally, at the end when Maggie's secret is revealed, it was like everything snapped into focus. (Okay, maybe not everything.) I went back and re-read the chapters that King suggested in her author's note and THEN, re-read bits from the first book to reconfirm Maggie's secret.
I usually don't read more than two books in a series in a row because I tend to get underwhelmed by the universe before I finish the third. But I'm sorely tempted because King's storytelling and attention to detail are just so exquisite. She creates this incredible world and such deep, multifaceted characters that I just want to know more. Thank you (sort of), Sara King for the emotional hangover I'm going to have upon completion of this phenomenal series!
April 22, 2016
I am Still on my Zero binge. Sara King writes long books that are NEVER boring,The lenght is part of why I LOVE the Zero series. Miss King writes what I call a book unlike what passes for books today.
The world of Zero brings you into a different time, place and reality. There are many characters & species to keep track of like the Dasha, Jreet, Jahual, Genuji, Baga. We learn the traits, roles and loyalties of several races to in the series. The author weaves fascinating characters, who were born on different worlds and belong to tribes with their own motivations. I recomend highlighting sections as you read that you can refer back to or keeping track on paper. This should not stop you from reading this series though!! This is why Miss King is one of the Authors I love. You will become invested in the Zero series creating a small glossary will help you.
The Zero series has an intricate storyline with intriguing and complex characters.Miss King creates an Original world that you will not find in another book. This is a great read and I would recommend it to anyone who loves space science fiction.
The world of Zero brings you into a different time, place and reality. There are many characters & species to keep track of like the Dasha, Jreet, Jahual, Genuji, Baga. We learn the traits, roles and loyalties of several races to in the series. The author weaves fascinating characters, who were born on different worlds and belong to tribes with their own motivations. I recomend highlighting sections as you read that you can refer back to or keeping track on paper. This should not stop you from reading this series though!! This is why Miss King is one of the Authors I love. You will become invested in the Zero series creating a small glossary will help you.
The Zero series has an intricate storyline with intriguing and complex characters.Miss King creates an Original world that you will not find in another book. This is a great read and I would recommend it to anyone who loves space science fiction.
June 16, 2013
Reading Zero Recall felt like a ride on a raging river. I was carried around turns and propelled through twists all the while wondering if there were more rapids hiding around the next bend. The very best adventures are more about the people you are with then the destination and the characters painted here made this a trip to remember.
Not since I read the Hobbit for the first time over thirty years ago have I been so enthralled in a story. I almost started to hate this book because it was so good I couldn't put it down. I am not trying to say that Sara King is the next Tolkien or that this will have the quality of literature as time passes; but this is a story that is rich and deep with characters you can see and even smell. >grin<
More Please!
Not since I read the Hobbit for the first time over thirty years ago have I been so enthralled in a story. I almost started to hate this book because it was so good I couldn't put it down. I am not trying to say that Sara King is the next Tolkien or that this will have the quality of literature as time passes; but this is a story that is rich and deep with characters you can see and even smell. >grin<
More Please!
July 17, 2013
Overall, I thought this was a better work than Forging Zero. There's some nice complexity to the story, and several layers of narrative. There are minor editing/consistency issues (to be expected as an indie work); Flea's inability to count over 6 is only invoked when convenient or humorous, while he seems to know what "in 20 tics" means when the plot can't be bothered with those constraints. This is fairly lightweight, brisk, entertaining reading. I'm anxious to see how the rest of the series goes.
July 29, 2013
The book picks up 53 turns after the events of Forging Zero. While it feels to me that Forging Zero is a tapestry of many sci-fi books, Zero Recall is of an entirely different league. As if it's grown into an entirely new organism, more mature and ever more fascinating.
Actually, the characters in the book make the reading experience more, for lack of better word, colorful. It's as if the characters- which, by the way, are so vivid they're almost disgusting- navigate the story, rather than the story navigating the characters. Some parts left me confused, but mostly in my effort to rush through sentences to find out what happens next. This is one hell of a read with enough twists to compel you to stay up late and devour the whole thing.
Actually, the characters in the book make the reading experience more, for lack of better word, colorful. It's as if the characters- which, by the way, are so vivid they're almost disgusting- navigate the story, rather than the story navigating the characters. Some parts left me confused, but mostly in my effort to rush through sentences to find out what happens next. This is one hell of a read with enough twists to compel you to stay up late and devour the whole thing.
August 21, 2013
Let's face it, the second installment of this saga rocks. It's Military Sci-Fi at its very best. It's crazed out alien and honestly i cannot even properly imagine all these species but they are spectacular for sure. I was quite impressed about the 'buddy' aspect that found its way in to this very strange world. But i guess, i most like that fact that our hero is all grown-up and perfectly bitter and becomes the leader of a groundteam that might rip each other apart before even touching the ground. We got action, politics, friendship, mythology, honour and betrayal. It's incredibly entertaining. I was quite sad when it ended and cannot wait for it to it to continue. This 'Saga', yes, i believe it should be called exactly that, is something for everyone who loves sci-fi and a grand story!
February 17, 2015
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and thought I would be sad to see a new set of characters after such a big time jump. But these new characters were even better. The dynamic between Joe and all of the alien species was captivating. The beautifully woven storyline is driven by a set of intriguing characters who develop into an unlikely team. Its full of humour, reluctant cooperation that turns to loyalty and friendship.
This book somehow manages to be even better than the Forging Zero. I fell in love with some of the best written characters I have ever read. They have a wonderful depth, with flaws that make them even more likeable. An incredible read that easily sits at the top my favourite books and character lists.
This book somehow manages to be even better than the Forging Zero. I fell in love with some of the best written characters I have ever read. They have a wonderful depth, with flaws that make them even more likeable. An incredible read that easily sits at the top my favourite books and character lists.
March 20, 2015
The huge time gap between Forging Zero and Zero Recall made me a bit nervous when I first started reading. I soon found my worries were misplaced. Often sequels become fillers, simply bridging the gap between the two books. This, however, was fantastic! I can't seem to get enough of the Legend of Zero. Like with the first, I found the plot refreshing, with enough twists and turns to keep me in the dark. The characters were complex and well-rounded with a healthy amount of faults to make you love and hate them at the same time. On more than one occasion my heart broke for the pain and loss they suffered. My only wish is that there were more. I look forward to reading the third book, but I fear it will only leave me wanting more of Sara King's Zero.
January 30, 2015
It's all Sara King's fault! I didn't get enough sleep last week because I couldn't put down this book. (It hasn't happened to me often since high school.) I love her characters--they completely pull me in and cause me to care about them. Her action is exciting, as well, without getting boring. A question about one bugged me from the beginning of the book....I was extremely pleased that Ms. King wrapped up loose ends and answered my question by the end of the book. The plot is well reasoned and not predictable. I wanted to start the third one immediately after finishing this one. If you like science fiction and character-driven stories, you need to get this book!
February 20, 2015
Another fine book by Sara King.
This book was just as good as the first one. Don't listen to the people who are saying that she is jumping around and skipping turns (years in our time). Read the books and you will see what I'm talking about by that. She transitions from one book to the next without skipping a heartbeat, he's been retired and on earth looking for his brother and is called back. The book explained this and then the fun begins again for Joe and some new teammates. This is a great read and would recommend it to anyone who loves space sciencefiction. I will be reading the next one soon and will review it also. Great job Sara.
This book was just as good as the first one. Don't listen to the people who are saying that she is jumping around and skipping turns (years in our time). Read the books and you will see what I'm talking about by that. She transitions from one book to the next without skipping a heartbeat, he's been retired and on earth looking for his brother and is called back. The book explained this and then the fun begins again for Joe and some new teammates. This is a great read and would recommend it to anyone who loves space sciencefiction. I will be reading the next one soon and will review it also. Great job Sara.
September 17, 2013
This might be part of the legend of Zero, but the characters that stole the show for me were the aliens. A Houyt with a conscience - who could believe that! The interaction between Zero and his alien companions drives this story. When they stepped outside their species profile I felt like cheering. And I never thought I'd find myself feeling compassion for a mould!
King's character-driven stories are real page-turners. She explores the human psyche (Even if some of them are aliens!) and reminds us of the strength that lies in community. I'm looking for more of her work to read!
King's character-driven stories are real page-turners. She explores the human psyche (Even if some of them are aliens!) and reminds us of the strength that lies in community. I'm looking for more of her work to read!
March 3, 2014
I thought this was a great book. The characters were wonderful; loved isn't a good enough word to describe how I felt about them. I haven't swooned for characters this hard since I was a teenager. The theme was unlikely friendship--something I am a complete and total sucker for. This was definitely a worthy sequel to Forging Zero.
As much as I enjoyed reading it, however, I can't give this book five stars for two main reasons:
1. The beginning chugs along at a slow, slow pace. The opening chapter with Forgotten was less of a chore to read than the one about Joe. Given how the first book ends, there are expectations for cake that the reader has. But instead of even getting a tiny glimpse of that cake, we're told that cake happened in the past--but that was then, this is now. Come on, Sara, help me out with the transition! I had to force myself a bit to keep reading.
2. The Author's note felt a wee bit insulting. "Zero Recall is different. If you read it right the first time, it should blow your mind. If you read it right the second time, it should blow your mind again. It should still be perfectly entertaining the third time through."
How arrogant to suggest to *anyone* what will or won't blow her mind--especially when you created it!! And telling me how I "should" read? Grr. I realize this has nothing to do with the story, but it was right there at the front of the book, big and fat. And damned if it didn't grind at me the entire novel.
There exists plenty of fiction that is layered like this, and I think nearly all readers constantly re-evaluate previous events based on new understanding. That's the whole fun of these kind of layers. But seriously, to say that it would "blow my mind" a second time suggests I'm too furgish to figure out the layers of a story by the end. I mean, sure, I'm certain I missed some incidentals that I would find on a re-read. I'm sure I'd gain new context and a broader understanding. But to suggest that this would "Blow. My. Mind?" Geez.
I hate to say it, Sara, but the first read didn't exactly blow my mind, either. :) I mean, it was wonderful, and I didn't guess most things correctly, but everything was pretty much there from the beginning as a possibility. Just a matter of probability. It didn't seem any more mind-blowing than a magician's patter.
Finally, the most baffling thing to me. Let's say Sara was right about everything--that *everyone* who read it "right" would have their mind blown by the end. Why then, WHY would you put such a note at the BEGINNING of your story? Maybe to keep people guessing?
It just annoyed the hell out of me.
But yeah. The characters and story itself--those was golden. :) I would recommend this series to most of my friends.
As much as I enjoyed reading it, however, I can't give this book five stars for two main reasons:
1. The beginning chugs along at a slow, slow pace. The opening chapter with Forgotten was less of a chore to read than the one about Joe. Given how the first book ends, there are expectations for cake that the reader has. But instead of even getting a tiny glimpse of that cake, we're told that cake happened in the past--but that was then, this is now. Come on, Sara, help me out with the transition! I had to force myself a bit to keep reading.
2. The Author's note felt a wee bit insulting. "Zero Recall is different. If you read it right the first time, it should blow your mind. If you read it right the second time, it should blow your mind again. It should still be perfectly entertaining the third time through."
How arrogant to suggest to *anyone* what will or won't blow her mind--especially when you created it!! And telling me how I "should" read? Grr. I realize this has nothing to do with the story, but it was right there at the front of the book, big and fat. And damned if it didn't grind at me the entire novel.
There exists plenty of fiction that is layered like this, and I think nearly all readers constantly re-evaluate previous events based on new understanding. That's the whole fun of these kind of layers. But seriously, to say that it would "blow my mind" a second time suggests I'm too furgish to figure out the layers of a story by the end. I mean, sure, I'm certain I missed some incidentals that I would find on a re-read. I'm sure I'd gain new context and a broader understanding. But to suggest that this would "Blow. My. Mind?" Geez.
I hate to say it, Sara, but the first read didn't exactly blow my mind, either. :) I mean, it was wonderful, and I didn't guess most things correctly, but everything was pretty much there from the beginning as a possibility. Just a matter of probability. It didn't seem any more mind-blowing than a magician's patter.
Finally, the most baffling thing to me. Let's say Sara was right about everything--that *everyone* who read it "right" would have their mind blown by the end. Why then, WHY would you put such a note at the BEGINNING of your story? Maybe to keep people guessing?
It just annoyed the hell out of me.
But yeah. The characters and story itself--those was golden. :) I would recommend this series to most of my friends.
December 19, 2013
the peace but a bit corrupt. They’ve discovered Earth and as usual took a draft of children between the age of five and twelve. Their food matures them physically early but not mentally, ending up with children in adult bodies.. Forging Zero (book from Parasite Publications which I bought electronically) introduces us to Joe Dobbs, age 16 who was captured after freeing a number of draftees including his brother. They’re all numbered except for him because he was expected to be culled. Their training planet has a heavier planet than Earth and lots of spores in the air that make it difficult to breath. Their commanders likes to eat recruits who don’t measure up and take others as slaves, and most of their training takes place in tunnels which bring out Joe’s claustrophobia. Add in an ancient prophecy that foresees the fall of Congress and aliens who can predict the future and who say that Joe Dobb is the individual to watch for. Zero Recall (which I also bought) takes place firty turns later. Zero has been a stellar warrior., but let go because he isn’t needed because it’s peace time. So he goes to Earth to locate his drug lord Brother only to get his brother captured and excuted. A new war against the Dhasha has prompted his recall even though he wants to dive into a bottle. Instead he is given a multi-species patrol with Jreet, a huge snake that can go invisible, a Huouyt who can take on other species forms, and a flying creature they call Flea. It turns out the war was created by the only free, extremely smart Geugi who is plotting to help the rest of his species locked up for over a million years. This one is full of surprises and plot twists. Both books are impossible to put down and highly recommended. I’ve been buying her ealier books which are just as much fun. review printed in the Philadelphia
February 15, 2015
Reading science fiction is a lot like reading Tolstoy or Chekhov or Dostoyevsky. Before you can appreciate the fine writing and the fantastic plot and the well-defined characters, you must first get past all of those foreign-looking and alien-sounding names.
Zero Recall (The Legend of Zero) by Sara King is that kind of read. It’s obvious from the first few pages that this novel is a gold mine. The language is rich, the plot complex. But you have to work at mining precious metal from solid rock.
Zero Recall is pure space opera of the Star Wars variety. How dare one compare space opera to Tolstoy or Chekhov or Dostoyevsky? Zero Recall isn’t great literature, but it wasn’t intended to be. It was meant to be a fun read, an old-fashioned sci-fi adventure story where heroes are larger than life and villains twice as bad. You’re never completely sure who the good guys are nor the shape-shifter bad guys.
Joe Dobbs is the legendary Commander Zero. He was recalled into Congressional service to lead a team of six into battle. Joe is the only human in the first inter-species combat squad, and he’s ordered to weld these creatures who hate each other’s guts into an effective fighting unit within a week. Like a cross between Star Wars and Star Trek the Next Generation, Zero Recall imaginatively explores alien personalities and cultural differences. Not only are Joe’s team mates built physically different from each other, they think differently, too. How can a mere human survive a suicide assignment when his second in command is a famous assassin sworn to kill him?
Despite some minor discrepancies and the overuse of multiple punctuations to make a point (?!), the story and characterizations kept me reading. If you like good old-fashioned space opera with a few exciting twists, you should take a look at Zero Recall.
Zero Recall (The Legend of Zero) by Sara King is that kind of read. It’s obvious from the first few pages that this novel is a gold mine. The language is rich, the plot complex. But you have to work at mining precious metal from solid rock.
Zero Recall is pure space opera of the Star Wars variety. How dare one compare space opera to Tolstoy or Chekhov or Dostoyevsky? Zero Recall isn’t great literature, but it wasn’t intended to be. It was meant to be a fun read, an old-fashioned sci-fi adventure story where heroes are larger than life and villains twice as bad. You’re never completely sure who the good guys are nor the shape-shifter bad guys.
Joe Dobbs is the legendary Commander Zero. He was recalled into Congressional service to lead a team of six into battle. Joe is the only human in the first inter-species combat squad, and he’s ordered to weld these creatures who hate each other’s guts into an effective fighting unit within a week. Like a cross between Star Wars and Star Trek the Next Generation, Zero Recall imaginatively explores alien personalities and cultural differences. Not only are Joe’s team mates built physically different from each other, they think differently, too. How can a mere human survive a suicide assignment when his second in command is a famous assassin sworn to kill him?
Despite some minor discrepancies and the overuse of multiple punctuations to make a point (?!), the story and characterizations kept me reading. If you like good old-fashioned space opera with a few exciting twists, you should take a look at Zero Recall.
September 3, 2018
Great characters and camaraderie, which is how I got through 2 of these. But calling your books "character-driven science fiction" does not get you off the hook when it comes to the science part... There's no world-building here, no science--no physics, no evolutionary biology, no planetary science, no ethnography... nothing that gives us a sense of the scale of an intergalactic (really??) federation that's been around for 3 million (really??) years. Where are all the complex AI life forms (there is exactly one)? Why does the Army call itself an Army (in existence) 3M years prior to contact w humans. Why does it have a chow hall? Why is "Congress" recognizable in any way to the human mind?
In short, this is good in many of the ways that Star Trek is good, and terrible in all of the ways that it's terrible.
King doesn't understand lay vs. lie and a number of other mechanical components of English. She is quite enamored of herself--her afterword is full of claims about how much her books will blow your mind. When I realized that this was not a trilogy but an endless series, I decided to bail--if you can't finish your series in 3, I'm out.
In short, this is good in many of the ways that Star Trek is good, and terrible in all of the ways that it's terrible.
King doesn't understand lay vs. lie and a number of other mechanical components of English. She is quite enamored of herself--her afterword is full of claims about how much her books will blow your mind. When I realized that this was not a trilogy but an endless series, I decided to bail--if you can't finish your series in 3, I'm out.
December 11, 2014
Now we're talking!
This is the second book and it's better than the first! We jump 50 years from the previous book and our reluctant hero Joe, has become just that. A very popular hero. We only year mention of his previous escapades that gives him the title. This is because the book series is really dealing with the four prophecies that were told to Joe when he was a new recruit. Lots of intrigue and mystery within mysteries. Great fighting scenes and you will really get to like the characters. The book is well thought out and the plot moves quickly as the adventure unfolds, keeping the pages turning (or in my case, fingers tapping on my Kindle) well into the night! Good reading!!
This is the second book and it's better than the first! We jump 50 years from the previous book and our reluctant hero Joe, has become just that. A very popular hero. We only year mention of his previous escapades that gives him the title. This is because the book series is really dealing with the four prophecies that were told to Joe when he was a new recruit. Lots of intrigue and mystery within mysteries. Great fighting scenes and you will really get to like the characters. The book is well thought out and the plot moves quickly as the adventure unfolds, keeping the pages turning (or in my case, fingers tapping on my Kindle) well into the night! Good reading!!
April 12, 2015
Her series are absolutely fun to read especially if you are in the very rare minority and get sick and tired of being the stand out for being different from the group. In her series, there are many more species interacting with each other and yet they maintain their uniqueness. For example, the Jreet can settle their differences in court by fighting whereas, the Dhasas engage in kar-par, staring duel contest. Human learned to work with his such a diverse team and he excelled in getting them to work together to the point that they no longer sparred due to their differences but rather to the issue on hand. This type of interaction is so rich and fun that I throughly enjoyed reading this book and I did not feel guilty for ignoring my household duties! It is a huge plus!
August 7, 2014
Up and down on this one...
OK, so this is character fiction, and there certainly are a number of them in the first two books. What seems paradoxical to me is that SK says that it is silly to try to predict the physics of the far future, but she can predict the psyche of aliens of the far future. The aliens just don't seem all that alien; more like a lot of people you probably know now.
Anyway, I have to admit that I enjoyed reading both books, and will continue to read the LOZ series; if for no other reason than I find the author's mind interesting.
OK, so this is character fiction, and there certainly are a number of them in the first two books. What seems paradoxical to me is that SK says that it is silly to try to predict the physics of the far future, but she can predict the psyche of aliens of the far future. The aliens just don't seem all that alien; more like a lot of people you probably know now.
Anyway, I have to admit that I enjoyed reading both books, and will continue to read the LOZ series; if for no other reason than I find the author's mind interesting.
January 18, 2015
I'm hooked
I don't know what to say. I'm still thinking about the characters now. Multifaceted characters.....fallible... This isn't a book where the hero just comes in and saves the day. Lots of action...for those that love adventure. Original world....you will not find the concept for this world in another book. Above all...the characters are fully developed. Sara King has created characters that you will like and root for...but you will also want to reach in and give them a hug...right after you knock them upside their heads. Fantastic book!!!!!!!!!!
I don't know what to say. I'm still thinking about the characters now. Multifaceted characters.....fallible... This isn't a book where the hero just comes in and saves the day. Lots of action...for those that love adventure. Original world....you will not find the concept for this world in another book. Above all...the characters are fully developed. Sara King has created characters that you will like and root for...but you will also want to reach in and give them a hug...right after you knock them upside their heads. Fantastic book!!!!!!!!!!
January 9, 2017
Whole new universe
This novel is not even similar to the first one. Completely different, packed with a bunch of alien characters, each one with a very peculiar personality and story. I got a bit overwhelmed by it in the first 50 pages, but after I got into the story, I was mesmerized.
Zero is not even that big part of the story in the grand scheme of the book. His ground team, which accompanied him, is both disturbing and laughable, specially the Jerrat and the Huoyt.
Great military space-opera sci-fi.
This novel is not even similar to the first one. Completely different, packed with a bunch of alien characters, each one with a very peculiar personality and story. I got a bit overwhelmed by it in the first 50 pages, but after I got into the story, I was mesmerized.
Zero is not even that big part of the story in the grand scheme of the book. His ground team, which accompanied him, is both disturbing and laughable, specially the Jerrat and the Huoyt.
Great military space-opera sci-fi.
June 21, 2017
Interesting to have the second book in the series skipping so much time... but it does work.
What I liked...
- Sara has the gritty aspect in her characters nailed down to a tee
- Action. Damn. She's good.
- Her sense of humour. I love books that make me chuckle quietly in bed at 3 AM and this happened quite a bit.
What I didn't like...
- If anything her characterization is almost too consistent. Ole Joe sure knows how to get on my nerves sometimes. The asher.
- Not much else
Keep em coming
What I liked...
- Sara has the gritty aspect in her characters nailed down to a tee
- Action. Damn. She's good.
- Her sense of humour. I love books that make me chuckle quietly in bed at 3 AM and this happened quite a bit.
What I didn't like...
- If anything her characterization is almost too consistent. Ole Joe sure knows how to get on my nerves sometimes. The asher.
- Not much else
Keep em coming
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