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Hayden War Cycle #4
The Valhalla Call
In The Valhalla Call we bring the Hayden War Arc that began in On Silver Wings to its startling conclusion. Newly minted Lieutenant Sorilla Aida has a new mission and new allies, gear, and support as she is tasked with a job that could ensure that the human race stands a chance of reaching a technical parity with the mysterious alien alliance.
Humans and SOLCOM are not the only ones making moves, however, and the Alliance has brought up their varsity to end the little side war before it gets out of hand. Are they really interested in humanity or human worlds, however, or is something more at play?
When the horns sound, the Valhalla Call rings out across the galaxy and it is inevitable that someone will be brought to answer.
Humans and SOLCOM are not the only ones making moves, however, and the Alliance has brought up their varsity to end the little side war before it gets out of hand. Are they really interested in humanity or human worlds, however, or is something more at play?
When the horns sound, the Valhalla Call rings out across the galaxy and it is inevitable that someone will be brought to answer.
240 pages, ebook
First published June 17, 2013
225 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 19, 2019
Charles van Buren
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
4.0 out of 5 stars
Still fun but time to go in another direction
March 17, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
According to the author book 4 of ON SILVER WINGS, HAYDEN WAR, was to be the last volume of the story. I read it with that expectation. I was disappointed with the book ending in a great mystery rather than a satisfactory conclusion. I then discovered that Mr. Currie decided to write books 5 and 6 in which the mystery is further explored. In book 4 some of the military action and explanations began to become a little repetitious and tedious but I still thought the story was fun particularly as I downloaded it via Kindle Unlimited rather than purchasing it. Here is a sneak preview - so far Book V takes a different approach from that of the first four books so that a lot of repetition is avoided.
Unfortunately the lack of editing and the grammar and structure problems continue in book 4. I know that rules have changed but I still dislike sentences which end with prepositions. Ending a sentence with at is both annoying and redundant. Sentences such as, Where is the ship at, just don't need the at on the end. Of course the book is also full of smirks.
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
4.0 out of 5 stars
Still fun but time to go in another direction
March 17, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
According to the author book 4 of ON SILVER WINGS, HAYDEN WAR, was to be the last volume of the story. I read it with that expectation. I was disappointed with the book ending in a great mystery rather than a satisfactory conclusion. I then discovered that Mr. Currie decided to write books 5 and 6 in which the mystery is further explored. In book 4 some of the military action and explanations began to become a little repetitious and tedious but I still thought the story was fun particularly as I downloaded it via Kindle Unlimited rather than purchasing it. Here is a sneak preview - so far Book V takes a different approach from that of the first four books so that a lot of repetition is avoided.
Unfortunately the lack of editing and the grammar and structure problems continue in book 4. I know that rules have changed but I still dislike sentences which end with prepositions. Ending a sentence with at is both annoying and redundant. Sentences such as, Where is the ship at, just don't need the at on the end. Of course the book is also full of smirks.
June 24, 2013
This is yet another great book in the Hayden War Cycle (Warrior’s Wings) book series. Evan C. Currie have interesting characters, a writing style that I like, writes good action sequences and uses reasonably believable physics. The book starts fairly shortly after the previous book ended. The humans have obviously reverse engineered some of the alien technology and are not the easy prey the aliens thought any more. This does not mean that they are not outclassed technologically though but humans are quick learners and have one or two tricks up their sleeve as well.
Sorilla is, not surprisingly, one of the more interesting characters in the book and the pages were she takes part is all worthwhile reading. So are the space battles which, unlike some books, do not ditch normal physics but are reasonably realistically described. Having said that, credibility gets a bit stretched when we venture into the time-space issues mentioned during the visit at the human research station not to mention Sorilla’s experience inside the alien ship.
Obviously the humans do overcome the challenges facing them at the end although the solution was indeed a bit drastic, not to mention wasteful on both materiel and personnel. Also, I would not have been unhappy to get a bit more explanation as to what actually happened.
If I should complain about something it would be that the author used the cheap trick of suddenly bundling a bunch of climate and global warming propaganda in the middle of the book. I am never very happy with real world present day politics, especially a hotly debated one, thrown into my fictional reading, regardless of which angle it takes.
The book does end, perhaps not really with a cliffhanger, but certainly with a few open threads and with ample opportunity for a continuation. However, we might have to wait for that continuation. Judging by the foreword of the book it appears like, even though the author claims to have ideas for the series, he wants to make a pause to concentrate on some of his other books for now. I certainly hope that he will not make that pause too long.
Sorilla is, not surprisingly, one of the more interesting characters in the book and the pages were she takes part is all worthwhile reading. So are the space battles which, unlike some books, do not ditch normal physics but are reasonably realistically described. Having said that, credibility gets a bit stretched when we venture into the time-space issues mentioned during the visit at the human research station not to mention Sorilla’s experience inside the alien ship.
Obviously the humans do overcome the challenges facing them at the end although the solution was indeed a bit drastic, not to mention wasteful on both materiel and personnel. Also, I would not have been unhappy to get a bit more explanation as to what actually happened.
If I should complain about something it would be that the author used the cheap trick of suddenly bundling a bunch of climate and global warming propaganda in the middle of the book. I am never very happy with real world present day politics, especially a hotly debated one, thrown into my fictional reading, regardless of which angle it takes.
The book does end, perhaps not really with a cliffhanger, but certainly with a few open threads and with ample opportunity for a continuation. However, we might have to wait for that continuation. Judging by the foreword of the book it appears like, even though the author claims to have ideas for the series, he wants to make a pause to concentrate on some of his other books for now. I certainly hope that he will not make that pause too long.
February 26, 2023
Jak do tej pory, to najlepsza z serii. Wciągająca, wartka akcja oraz zakończenie, którego się nie spodziewałam. I dlaczego nasza planeta („Terra”) nazywa się „Gleba”?
September 18, 2019
Yet another really enjoyable read.
May 7, 2016
Ross Ell, Ros' El... You say 'tomato', I say 'tomahto'
I have enjoyed the adventures of Sergeant Aida, very much. And I admire the Admiral Brooke and Jane Mackay characters.
What I absolutely positively dislike is the lack of consistency, oh, like the way name of an entire species of aliens is spelled differently from book to book. And it's obvious that spellchecker was used, but that doesn't catch words that are spelled correctly but aren't the word that is needed. Or missing words.
Regardless, I've read all six, and I still enjoy them.
I think part of it is that so many women are the heroes. They are the leaders, the ones making the tough, life-or-death decisions. There are also many heroic male characters. I also like the feeling that humans are fighting back against overwhelming odds.
I'm very curious about the possible Roswell connection. And time travel.
Results: very enjoyable, but riddled with errors.
I have enjoyed the adventures of Sergeant Aida, very much. And I admire the Admiral Brooke and Jane Mackay characters.
What I absolutely positively dislike is the lack of consistency, oh, like the way name of an entire species of aliens is spelled differently from book to book. And it's obvious that spellchecker was used, but that doesn't catch words that are spelled correctly but aren't the word that is needed. Or missing words.
Regardless, I've read all six, and I still enjoy them.
I think part of it is that so many women are the heroes. They are the leaders, the ones making the tough, life-or-death decisions. There are also many heroic male characters. I also like the feeling that humans are fighting back against overwhelming odds.
I'm very curious about the possible Roswell connection. And time travel.
Results: very enjoyable, but riddled with errors.
March 20, 2015
OK, this series is very good
I've just read the first four volumes of this series. It's very good as far as action, reasonable tactics, and an informative description of higher dimensional math/physics. The aliens seem a little less than alien though; but who's really to say?
But once again I have to say, could someone, please, please, proofread these books before they're published? I hate having to try to figure out what the author is trying to say when I'm reading nearly every paragraph! I would give this book 4-4.5 stars, but I can only give it 3 because of the poor editing. If the author doesn't care, why should I?
I've just read the first four volumes of this series. It's very good as far as action, reasonable tactics, and an informative description of higher dimensional math/physics. The aliens seem a little less than alien though; but who's really to say?
But once again I have to say, could someone, please, please, proofread these books before they're published? I hate having to try to figure out what the author is trying to say when I'm reading nearly every paragraph! I would give this book 4-4.5 stars, but I can only give it 3 because of the poor editing. If the author doesn't care, why should I?
July 24, 2015
This is a great Science Fiction series!
Well written, great characters, consistent plot.
(My copy had some typos and errors, but nothig too distracting)
Highy recommendable!
Well written, great characters, consistent plot.
(My copy had some typos and errors, but nothig too distracting)
Highy recommendable!
November 16, 2020
If you have encountered this offering before reading any of the previous books in this series, my firm advice would be to park it and then go and get hold of On Silver Wings, the first book in the series. This is essentially one long story broken up into smaller sections, despite the time lapses between each adventure. So you will be missing far too much of the context and by the time you are able to pick up sufficient knowledge of who is doing what to whom, the chances are you won’t be in a position to fully appreciate what is going on anyway.
I appreciated getting more of Sorilla and her new challenges with her latest piece of tech. As she was the principal protagonist in the first couple of books, it has been something of an adjustment as the focus of the story shifts into a more epic narrative with viewpoints from both human and alien commanders. The science is very well handled, with sufficient detail to satisfy the nerd in me yet without being overwhelming or silting up the narrative pace. And I don’t think that anyone does space battles better than Currie, including the build-up and making sure his readers are aware of the stakes. It is this superpower of his that makes me happy to overlook the fact that some of his aliens think and act uncannily like their human counterparts. The only other niggle is that this book could do with a bit more editing, as there are too many misspelt words. But it wasn’t a dealbreaker, as years of reading arcs with shocking formatting issues has trained me to cope with such glitches without throwing up my hands.
Overall, this is a cracking addition to an enjoyable adventure and I am happy to report that you can ignore the comments about this being the final book in the series – it isn’t. Which is just as well, as it does leave everything on something of a cliffhanger ending. I am also happy to report that I have the next book in the series already lined up on my Kindle, waiting to be read. Recommended for fans of enjoyable military science fiction.
8/10
I appreciated getting more of Sorilla and her new challenges with her latest piece of tech. As she was the principal protagonist in the first couple of books, it has been something of an adjustment as the focus of the story shifts into a more epic narrative with viewpoints from both human and alien commanders. The science is very well handled, with sufficient detail to satisfy the nerd in me yet without being overwhelming or silting up the narrative pace. And I don’t think that anyone does space battles better than Currie, including the build-up and making sure his readers are aware of the stakes. It is this superpower of his that makes me happy to overlook the fact that some of his aliens think and act uncannily like their human counterparts. The only other niggle is that this book could do with a bit more editing, as there are too many misspelt words. But it wasn’t a dealbreaker, as years of reading arcs with shocking formatting issues has trained me to cope with such glitches without throwing up my hands.
Overall, this is a cracking addition to an enjoyable adventure and I am happy to report that you can ignore the comments about this being the final book in the series – it isn’t. Which is just as well, as it does leave everything on something of a cliffhanger ending. I am also happy to report that I have the next book in the series already lined up on my Kindle, waiting to be read. Recommended for fans of enjoyable military science fiction.
8/10
September 5, 2017
Man has discovered the secret of FTL travel via the natural gateways between stars and is rapidly expanding into nearby space. Space, however, is not empty, filled with many other races that have gotten there first. War immediately breaks out when mankind's ships first encounter those from one of the alliance of races that control much of the galaxy.
An entertaining space opera, full of awe-inspiring weapons and plenty of space battles. Overall I enjoy this story and was especially intrigued by parallel narrations, swapping between human and alien viewpoints. There were, unfortunately, numerous grammatical errors that detracted from my enjoyment: many words were capitalized for no reason; and incorrect use of homonymic words (e.g.: "peace" instead of "piece").
An entertaining space opera, full of awe-inspiring weapons and plenty of space battles. Overall I enjoy this story and was especially intrigued by parallel narrations, swapping between human and alien viewpoints. There were, unfortunately, numerous grammatical errors that detracted from my enjoyment: many words were capitalized for no reason; and incorrect use of homonymic words (e.g.: "peace" instead of "piece").
September 12, 2024
Good book, but did literally jump around from one star system to the next and keeping track of the different Admirals and Captains, was challenging. However, the biggest gripe was the very poor editing.
'an' instead of 'and' & 'a' 'them' instead of 'then', several incorrect words used. It did spoil the enjoyment of book, especially as the previous three in the set, had no where near as many errors.
Not sure about some of the the science in the story lines: halo jumping across space (from one moving starship to another stationary starship) at massive velocities and an airbag stops you? lol.
'an' instead of 'and' & 'a' 'them' instead of 'then', several incorrect words used. It did spoil the enjoyment of book, especially as the previous three in the set, had no where near as many errors.
Not sure about some of the the science in the story lines: halo jumping across space (from one moving starship to another stationary starship) at massive velocities and an airbag stops you? lol.
November 14, 2017
Excellent Military Space Opera!
This book 4 opens as Earth's forces attempt to reverse-engineer alien technology and simultaneously defend the small colony of Hayden. Viewpoints shift back and forth as different characters become the center of the action. Both small individual forces and fleets aggressively attack with different tactical goals, but each battle action can go either way.
The story is absolutely riveting, and it appears personal sacrifices may be made to protect Earth from the aliens.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AS BOTH AN INDIVIDUAL BOOK AND AS A SERIES!!!
This book 4 opens as Earth's forces attempt to reverse-engineer alien technology and simultaneously defend the small colony of Hayden. Viewpoints shift back and forth as different characters become the center of the action. Both small individual forces and fleets aggressively attack with different tactical goals, but each battle action can go either way.
The story is absolutely riveting, and it appears personal sacrifices may be made to protect Earth from the aliens.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AS BOTH AN INDIVIDUAL BOOK AND AS A SERIES!!!
July 24, 2017
Great Story
This is my second time reading "On Silver Wings"
When I saw that book 6 came out I decided to read the series from the start. Glad I did. I read the first 5 books in about 4 weeks this time. I couldn't put it down.
I've read almost every book Evan Currie wrote, I have to say he's my favorite author in a long time. I read a lot so that says something.
Thanks Evan, keep em coming
This is my second time reading "On Silver Wings"
When I saw that book 6 came out I decided to read the series from the start. Glad I did. I read the first 5 books in about 4 weeks this time. I couldn't put it down.
I've read almost every book Evan Currie wrote, I have to say he's my favorite author in a long time. I read a lot so that says something.
Thanks Evan, keep em coming
July 25, 2021
It’s a win!
Always fun when the humans try their best. Do not want to spoil it for readers who stay to the end and see how it ends. Good job showing us the best of the other side without giving us something to think about. If you believe in this sort of thing then please think about believing in God/Jesus as well and reread the Bible as history fact rather the fiction. It could change your eternal life!
Always fun when the humans try their best. Do not want to spoil it for readers who stay to the end and see how it ends. Good job showing us the best of the other side without giving us something to think about. If you believe in this sort of thing then please think about believing in God/Jesus as well and reread the Bible as history fact rather the fiction. It could change your eternal life!
July 3, 2024
I really enjoy the stories, but am getting really fed up with the poor editing of his books. I stopped counting the errors and every time, I get more and more annoyed. Have trouble remembering if a character is male or female because of a few erroneous he or shes, and sentences that make no sense whatsoever. Anyhow, a little respect for your readers (and for yourself) would go a long way Mr. Currie. Keep up the good stories though.
August 11, 2018
Unputdownable
This series of books just seems to get better and better with every new episode.
I like the sideways nods to all other forms of favourite sci fi that I love, from star trek to doctor who.
Can't wait to start the next pine in the series.
The only problem with this is I'm quickly runing out of books !!!!!!
This series of books just seems to get better and better with every new episode.
I like the sideways nods to all other forms of favourite sci fi that I love, from star trek to doctor who.
Can't wait to start the next pine in the series.
The only problem with this is I'm quickly runing out of books !!!!!!
March 3, 2021
A rereading says it all.
I am reading this series for the third time. For me, that means it's great. Yes, some aspects of the writing make me question the authors depth of military knowledge and social behavior, but very little; I am to engaged in the story to get wrapped up in that nuance. Love it! Would make a great streaming series!
I am reading this series for the third time. For me, that means it's great. Yes, some aspects of the writing make me question the authors depth of military knowledge and social behavior, but very little; I am to engaged in the story to get wrapped up in that nuance. Love it! Would make a great streaming series!
July 18, 2018
The flight of the Valkyries
These books should definitely be read in order. This is an ongoing saga rather than a series but extremely enjoyable for all that. A must for fans of SF and space opera in particular.
These books should definitely be read in order. This is an ongoing saga rather than a series but extremely enjoyable for all that. A must for fans of SF and space opera in particular.
August 13, 2018
This is the 4th book in the series. The war that started on the colony Hayden's World has continued to grow in scope and the number of spaceships and manpower involved. Is the war a mistake, or planned to destroy Earth. Just why is a galaxy-wide empire so interested in defeating earth?
October 9, 2018
I love Evan Currie's books - always action packed and fast paced. The universe in which it is set is imaginative, and although definitely Sci-Fi has tangible links back to our own reality which is great.
January 7, 2019
Really enjoyed this "finale" if you forget there are 2 more books, though they take a different plot. Still sections of techno babble but fitted with the story. The plot carried more characters as well which kept the multi plots working. Recommend reading this😁👍
June 1, 2020
Fantastic. Great action and world building. Another great book.
Another great book in the series. We get to see l rd of the aliens and their viewpoint. Interesting take on space, time, and gravity.
Another great book in the series. We get to see l rd of the aliens and their viewpoint. Interesting take on space, time, and gravity.
December 18, 2022
Riveting
Inventive and exciting. I'm glad Sorilla made it thru another encounter. I'm intigued to see how her new implants continue to evolve. I'm also interested to see how this war will ultimately play out. Friend? Or dedicated enemy?
Inventive and exciting. I'm glad Sorilla made it thru another encounter. I'm intigued to see how her new implants continue to evolve. I'm also interested to see how this war will ultimately play out. Friend? Or dedicated enemy?
November 6, 2017
Great Book and series
January 8, 2018
Wow
That is ending a book with a bang, what a thrill ride! Not only a real WTH moment, but also mystery looking around the edge, no onward to the next one.
That is ending a book with a bang, what a thrill ride! Not only a real WTH moment, but also mystery looking around the edge, no onward to the next one.
March 10, 2018
4 stars
March 31, 2018
Holy larger-than-the-last-one Deus ex Machina, Batman!
July 3, 2018
Lost count on how many times I've read this
Good example of how a syfy story should be. Good mix of dialogue, action, and humor. Also, a great series to re-read.
Good example of how a syfy story should be. Good mix of dialogue, action, and humor. Also, a great series to re-read.
October 13, 2018
Captains Courages
The saga continues on a non-stop pace that keeps you involved with all of the main characters. The ending was a bit of a surprise, however.
The saga continues on a non-stop pace that keeps you involved with all of the main characters. The ending was a bit of a surprise, however.
December 9, 2018
Mechs + Starship Battles. My kind of military SF.
November 16, 2019
Would've been higher, but so many errors!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews