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The Outer Rims
The universe is shrinking as humans spread throughout the stars. But expansion means contact with new worlds and species―and with them, new challenges. As a young boy, Matthew Wallace experienced this as the child of missionaries on the planet Altair, living a rugged existence on the undeveloped world. Undeveloped, but not uninhabited. For Altair was home to a proud race of warriors―the Ananke. The same warriors Matthew watched as they murdered his parents. Now he is the Marshal of the place he swore he’d never return to, his hatred for the Ananke only tempered by his desperation to treat his wife’s terrible illness. For located on Altair is a clinic performing medical miracles, curing men and women of terminal diseases that even the most advanced technologies can’t touch. And yet, nothing is without its price, and as Matthew learns more about the world where he’s now charged with keeping the peace, he slowly realizes he’s going to have to decide what is more The life of his wife…or the lives of an entire species. A sci-fi thriller that calls to mind the grand masters of the genre, The Outer Rims explores the morality of doing whatever is necessary and the question of whether humanity and sentience are one in the same. This book was initially released in episodes as a Kindle Serial. All episodes are now available for immediate download as a complete book.
- GenresScience Fiction
375 pages, Paperback
First published February 19, 2013
14 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 22, 2013
Interesting Story, Good Message, A Little Predictable: 3.5 Stars
I enjoyed this book. It is the first book I read by author Clint Morey. The story was engaging, though simple, and I enjoyed the characters. I thought the author did a good job giving each character their own unique voice.
From the beginning of the book, it is relatively easy to predict the ultimate outcome. I was a little disappointed that the plot lines were completed a little bit too cleanly. The story did not give much in the way of unexpected twists or outcomes. Also, the protagonist is a little bit inconsistent in his attitudes toward the natives.
However, I thought the story had a great message, "always do the right thing" and this book does not fall into the trap of trying to be too dark. In many ways, this book reminded me of Lois McMaster Bujold Vorkosigan novels, which is a good thing.
I am giving this novel a 3.5 out of 5 stars. I would be willing to read the next installment in the series (if there is one).
I enjoyed this book. It is the first book I read by author Clint Morey. The story was engaging, though simple, and I enjoyed the characters. I thought the author did a good job giving each character their own unique voice.
From the beginning of the book, it is relatively easy to predict the ultimate outcome. I was a little disappointed that the plot lines were completed a little bit too cleanly. The story did not give much in the way of unexpected twists or outcomes. Also, the protagonist is a little bit inconsistent in his attitudes toward the natives.
However, I thought the story had a great message, "always do the right thing" and this book does not fall into the trap of trying to be too dark. In many ways, this book reminded me of Lois McMaster Bujold Vorkosigan novels, which is a good thing.
I am giving this novel a 3.5 out of 5 stars. I would be willing to read the next installment in the series (if there is one).
March 26, 2013
I found this book to very well written and captivating. I love that it was a futuristic Sci-fi thriller. The main character Matthew has been through a lot in his life. He has suffered through loss and now in his adult life is trying to fight for his wife's illness and find her help to keep her alive. While all the while trying to keep peace with the humans and the warriors of the planet Altair. I am also fascinated how well the author kept me turning the page and wanting more. It was like seeing your favorite TV show come to life on the pages of a book. A definite must read from first installment to last. Can't wait to read more.
January 24, 2021
I loved this! Fast paced, interesting aliens--who were not so over-described that I couldn't just create them in my imagination--an exciting new planet (again hints but I created the environment instead of being forced to see the author's idea) great characters (snarky teen, sassy robot, dying mom) and a great villain. Rather than beating readers up with a theme, the book gently points out the the atrocities the Europeans of old committed as they sought to rule the world are very likely to committed as humans expand across the galaxy. Not heavy science to plow through, just a truly great story.
November 22, 2017
The Outer Rims
I enjoyed the pace and look forward to more. Thanks, Clint Morey, for a good read. What...four more words required...!?
I enjoyed the pace and look forward to more. Thanks, Clint Morey, for a good read. What...four more words required...!?
November 3, 2020
2.5 if I could. Very simplistic, could use more character development and motivation.
March 12, 2013
The child of missionaries, Matthew Wallace is no stranger to new worlds across the universe. However, his view of new civilizations is somewhat marred when he witnesses the killing of his parents at the hand of the Ananke tribe.
From that tender age of six, he lives with families in the Marshal's Service. So naturally he becomes a Marshal. But, he hasn't forgotten that fateful day. Matt's anger at the Ananke people has grown into pure hatred. Unfortunately, his vow not to return to the 'Healing Planet' is pushed aside when his wife is stricken with cancer. Making the long journey back to where he lost his parents is difficult for Matt but the want to cure his wife is greater.
Upholding the Marshal law of punishment and justice for everyone regardless of money, human or not has made Matt's reputation precede him. When he arrives on Altair, the doctor in charge of the medical unit which carries out the life-saving treatment, and the senior deputy marshal meet him. However, the senior deputy feels slighted that he wasn't made marshal and shows his dislike of Matt. Taking it in his stride, Matt shows him and the other marshal's whose in charge. Whilst his wife receives the much needed treatment, his daughter goes exploring, closely followed by the family robot called Roy and Matt makes it known how he expects the marshal service to be run.
Unbeknownst to the new marshal of Altair, there are things taking place that have a sinister air about them. Will Matt find out what they are? Are the cures the doctor offers truly legitimate and what are the Ananke people plotting?
From the unassuming opening pages that quickly turns to a horrific incident, Morey's science-fiction series is compelling from the get go. The main character may well have a troubled past but his strength comes from his parents, whether he realizes it or not. The plot has been well thought out and having it in 'bite size' portions builds anticipation of what will happen next. The few characters met thus far are subtly vibrant, even the robot Roy has a great personality. Only two episodes in and it's already a great read.
To my great surprise I really like this story. I am not a fan of the sci-fi genre as I struggle with new worlds and phrases etc. However, Morey's style/use of words is nothing 'out there'. There are some unusual terms like 'Anake' but nothing that makes me think 'what is he talking about?' The strength and likability lies in the plot and the main character. It seems that this may be a story of a man seeking revenge but it's so much more than that and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the episodes.
I received a complimentary copy of this series from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.
From that tender age of six, he lives with families in the Marshal's Service. So naturally he becomes a Marshal. But, he hasn't forgotten that fateful day. Matt's anger at the Ananke people has grown into pure hatred. Unfortunately, his vow not to return to the 'Healing Planet' is pushed aside when his wife is stricken with cancer. Making the long journey back to where he lost his parents is difficult for Matt but the want to cure his wife is greater.
Upholding the Marshal law of punishment and justice for everyone regardless of money, human or not has made Matt's reputation precede him. When he arrives on Altair, the doctor in charge of the medical unit which carries out the life-saving treatment, and the senior deputy marshal meet him. However, the senior deputy feels slighted that he wasn't made marshal and shows his dislike of Matt. Taking it in his stride, Matt shows him and the other marshal's whose in charge. Whilst his wife receives the much needed treatment, his daughter goes exploring, closely followed by the family robot called Roy and Matt makes it known how he expects the marshal service to be run.
Unbeknownst to the new marshal of Altair, there are things taking place that have a sinister air about them. Will Matt find out what they are? Are the cures the doctor offers truly legitimate and what are the Ananke people plotting?
From the unassuming opening pages that quickly turns to a horrific incident, Morey's science-fiction series is compelling from the get go. The main character may well have a troubled past but his strength comes from his parents, whether he realizes it or not. The plot has been well thought out and having it in 'bite size' portions builds anticipation of what will happen next. The few characters met thus far are subtly vibrant, even the robot Roy has a great personality. Only two episodes in and it's already a great read.
To my great surprise I really like this story. I am not a fan of the sci-fi genre as I struggle with new worlds and phrases etc. However, Morey's style/use of words is nothing 'out there'. There are some unusual terms like 'Anake' but nothing that makes me think 'what is he talking about?' The strength and likability lies in the plot and the main character. It seems that this may be a story of a man seeking revenge but it's so much more than that and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the episodes.
I received a complimentary copy of this series from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.
April 5, 2013
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. Matthew Wallace is a missionary child. He saw his parents brutally murdered by an Ananke warrior. After being raised by Frontier Marshals, Matthew himself grows up to become a Marshal as well. His wife is terminally ill with cancer. The only place that can cure her is a clinic on Altair, the home of the Ananke. Now Matthew must face his past and create peace and order among the humans and Ananke warriors.
This is a great Kindle Serial. A Kindle Serial is a novel that comes in episodes. You pay one price and as new episodes come out they are added to the end of your book. Matthew is a great main character with wonderful morals. It has to be hard to be fair to the people that killed his parents, but he does his best. I can’t wait to see what happens when he finds out the truth about the medical clinic. I’ve only been through episodes one and two; there are some interesting things that come to light that really surprised me. I could not put this book down! I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the serial; I can’t wait to see what comes next. This is an excellently written Sci-Fi novel filled with suspense.
This is a great Kindle Serial. A Kindle Serial is a novel that comes in episodes. You pay one price and as new episodes come out they are added to the end of your book. Matthew is a great main character with wonderful morals. It has to be hard to be fair to the people that killed his parents, but he does his best. I can’t wait to see what happens when he finds out the truth about the medical clinic. I’ve only been through episodes one and two; there are some interesting things that come to light that really surprised me. I could not put this book down! I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the serial; I can’t wait to see what comes next. This is an excellently written Sci-Fi novel filled with suspense.
October 21, 2013
The story was overly formulaic. Frontier Sherif comes to the big city. There's shady dealings going on. The town leader is dirty and the local law works for him and his shady doings. The Sheriff uncovers everything, his family is put in peril by the bad guys, and there is the point where all is lost and the bad guys are going to win. Then the supporting cast launches a crazy scheme to save the day and they prevail.
That said, the writing was well executed. The sci-fi was neat. The repressed indigenous people were interesting (yes, there is also that storyline going on here too).
It is a quick read which in this case is a good thing.
That said, the writing was well executed. The sci-fi was neat. The repressed indigenous people were interesting (yes, there is also that storyline going on here too).
It is a quick read which in this case is a good thing.
October 2, 2014
Enjoyed this book.
The Outer Rims should have been called something else, for the title only eludes to the last posting of the main character.
To be honest, there was little wrong with the book. I thought a couple of things were a little too convenient, but beyond that, it is a good read. At least the personal computer was not as expensive as a space ship.
If you like SciFi with a good plot and well thought out characters, then this book is for you.
The Outer Rims should have been called something else, for the title only eludes to the last posting of the main character.
To be honest, there was little wrong with the book. I thought a couple of things were a little too convenient, but beyond that, it is a good read. At least the personal computer was not as expensive as a space ship.
If you like SciFi with a good plot and well thought out characters, then this book is for you.
June 5, 2013
Exposes man's greed for power and fame...nothing changes even if man conquers space and time - prejudices remain and hegemony is paramount. Overall, an interesting story with a fairy tale ending. I would be interested in trying more of Clint's writings to see if there are other interesting stories he can tell.
July 19, 2021
This book frustrated me when I knew both sides of the story but how Matthew couldn't prove what was happening. I really liked the amount of character development of Matthew's character, but still couldn't stand that he knew what was going on, but couldn't prove it. The doctor was probably the worst character ever. I hated that he had so much power and could blackmail Matt to stop the charges.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. In many ways it reminded me of a Robert Heinlein book except that the characters had modern equipment like tablets and communicators as opposed to diaper pins and pay phones. For some the story may seem formula but that is the way of many space operas. For me it worked and it would be nice to see continued adventures of Space Marshall Matthew Wallace.
April 21, 2015
I read a good 40% of this story, but it was just not gripping enough to hold me attention. There were a number of things I thought where well done, but even more that I thought should have been handled better.
Just not for me.
Just not for me.
November 1, 2013
One of my books at 47North. Biased, but love it. Classic sci-fi adventure in which a new marshal has to decide between his family and his duty. Reminded me a lot of the pulpier SF stories from back in the day--in a totally good way.
September 4, 2014
Justice. We want it bit do we believe in it?
Caught me in the first chapter. Alien planet-different culture. The story is all about choices and the characters behind the choices. Great story.
Caught me in the first chapter. Alien planet-different culture. The story is all about choices and the characters behind the choices. Great story.
March 8, 2015
Happy ending
The book touches on a lot of social and dominate issues in today's world; Racism and law enforcement officials out of control behavior are just two. Justice is definitely served by the end of the book.
The book touches on a lot of social and dominate issues in today's world; Racism and law enforcement officials out of control behavior are just two. Justice is definitely served by the end of the book.
September 24, 2013
This isn't a difficult read and it's good. Nice story with a good moral. It is reminiscent of Avatar meets Star Trek, bug if you like those, you'll like this!
May 16, 2013
First Kindle serial - great story. Enjoyed the humor and action beats. Plenty of good-guy / bad-guy stuff mixed in with other-world adventure.
November 6, 2013
Not going to finish. Didn't keep my interest.
Read
April 4, 2019Great book
loved the action in the book. a great read. Great author. Story moved quickly. Action packed from start to finish.
loved the action in the book. a great read. Great author. Story moved quickly. Action packed from start to finish.
January 30, 2014
A pleasant read.
The Outer Rims is an upbeat narrative, but nothing new. I can recommend the book for kids and young teens.
The Outer Rims is an upbeat narrative, but nothing new. I can recommend the book for kids and young teens.
February 8, 2014
This was an interesting science fiction story. I read it with my husband and it was entertaining and engaging.
December 28, 2014
A really good yarn. Not at all a yawn.
At the edges of space, the law has a place.
And you'll be reading till dawn.
At the edges of space, the law has a place.
And you'll be reading till dawn.
December 3, 2016
That was really pretty bad. 95% or more was clear before it even happened.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews