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Star Guild Saga #1
Star Guild: Episode 1
They've lived in orbit around planet Lumus for over 800 years, and for all they know, no one else exists but them.
However, they don't know how their race arrived here. No history book has an answer and no historian has the guts to find out. It's as if the history of their race, the human race, started in orbit around this planet. Any knowledge of their existence preceding 800 years has either been erased or their Prime Director is correct: they were birthed here and their race didn't exist 800 years ago. Most don't question it. Some do.
Regardless, life is undisturbed. All they know is peace. There's no torment, no struggle, and no war. The star ships and star fighters that make up their military--Star Guild--are for show, unneeded, and manufactured only to help with tech research. They know of no enemy, no threat, no carnage, and because of this, they aren't prepared for what's coming.
However, they don't know how their race arrived here. No history book has an answer and no historian has the guts to find out. It's as if the history of their race, the human race, started in orbit around this planet. Any knowledge of their existence preceding 800 years has either been erased or their Prime Director is correct: they were birthed here and their race didn't exist 800 years ago. Most don't question it. Some do.
Regardless, life is undisturbed. All they know is peace. There's no torment, no struggle, and no war. The star ships and star fighters that make up their military--Star Guild--are for show, unneeded, and manufactured only to help with tech research. They know of no enemy, no threat, no carnage, and because of this, they aren't prepared for what's coming.
39 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2013
225 people are currently reading
723 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Ellis
74 books106 followersBrandon Ellis was born in Portland, Oregon and grew up on the outskirts of the city in a little town known as Gladstone, where he graduated high school and moved on to college. After studying Therapeutic Bodywork at East-West College of the Healing Arts, he excelled in his field, becoming one of the Pacific Northwest's leading Therapeutic teachers and bodywork professionals. After several years, the love for writing tugged at his heart so much that he decided to put things aside and live his passion - write. He's now fashioning story after story, creating imaginative worlds of inspiration and art.
The PureLights of Ohm Totem
The PureLights of Ohm Totem
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 31, 2019
2019 grade CZ
An all action, no depth, space military fighting invulnerable alien invaders type space opera. At about 15% I was getting bored and started speed reading. At 25% I gave up. I think it might have been changing but the direction at that point was some stupid politician attacking the previously glorified Admiral - not good. I did like the lone ground soldier in the mechanical suit pretty much surviving on her own, but there was not enough of her to cover the rest. Since the prose was also pretty mundane, I gave up. It's not a bad story, just not good enough for me.
An all action, no depth, space military fighting invulnerable alien invaders type space opera. At about 15% I was getting bored and started speed reading. At 25% I gave up. I think it might have been changing but the direction at that point was some stupid politician attacking the previously glorified Admiral - not good. I did like the lone ground soldier in the mechanical suit pretty much surviving on her own, but there was not enough of her to cover the rest. Since the prose was also pretty mundane, I gave up. It's not a bad story, just not good enough for me.
May 20, 2021
I just finished the first book of the 3. It was boring and to borrow a phrase from Doug Adams, it was an improbable probability story. Bad science, goofy aliens, new races and new concepts popping out at times with no background. No punchy characters. I thought the second book might improve, but it was more of the same and maybe worse. Reminded me of a Doctor Who story where they spend lots of time just walking around chatting without moving the story along. Shallow characters and a shallow story, at least as far as I got which was 1/3 of the series.
April 14, 2021
Don't be fooled by the excellent 5th Element-meets-Stargate-SG1 beginning like I was; once you get out of Egypt it's pretty much just one giant Space Annihilation (thinly disguised as a giant Space Battle) with minimal characterization or depth. Not necessarily a bad thing if you're into that, but if I want a mindless action flick I can find at least seven on TV at any given time.
January 28, 2024
Start of an excellent series
"Veil Rising" is an exciting entrance into a fascinating unique universe where humans are supplying slave labor to an technologically more advanced species. It has a well thought out plot with believable characters. This book makes you want to read the rest of the series.
"Veil Rising" is an exciting entrance into a fascinating unique universe where humans are supplying slave labor to an technologically more advanced species. It has a well thought out plot with believable characters. This book makes you want to read the rest of the series.
August 2, 2020
A fun adventure
I found this book of three episodes to be a fun space opera book to read. Interesting characters, a few unresolved puzzles, and lots of adventure.
The big problem is: I can't find the follow-up book - Episodes 4-6! Too bad. I really wanted to finish the story.
I found this book of three episodes to be a fun space opera book to read. Interesting characters, a few unresolved puzzles, and lots of adventure.
The big problem is: I can't find the follow-up book - Episodes 4-6! Too bad. I really wanted to finish the story.
November 12, 2021
A great book to read and enjoy the book.
You are taken on a strange journey that has many ups and downs , as well keep you wondering what will come next. The author did a good job with the book , keep you wanting to read more.
You are taken on a strange journey that has many ups and downs , as well keep you wondering what will come next. The author did a good job with the book , keep you wanting to read more.
April 26, 2018
This book in my opinion is a very good read, a little short the storyline pulls you in, just pick it up and give it a go. I have the next books in my kindle
December 9, 2018
Great, can't wait to read episodes 4, 5,,and 6
Loved the story plot and loved the action plus the various military applications referred to by the author throughout this book
Loved the story plot and loved the action plus the various military applications referred to by the author throughout this book
March 9, 2020
A space opera of a different ilk. One with scifi, mystery, and a fair bit of fantasy rolled into it.
Peacefully orbiting the planet Lumos are a group of humans living in a well ordered and well organised society. They all live peaceful lives without need for aggression or violence
They have lived in this place, on huge ships for 800 years. They have no knowledge of Earth and they believe that they are alone in the universe and they believe their Prime Director, their leader, when he tells them that this is how things have always been. They see no reason to doubt him.
But suddenly, one day without warning, their fleet is attacked. No one knows by whom and no one knows why? But they are nearly overwhelmed.
How can this enemy know them and their weaponry so well? They are being attacked by a far superior power, and getting their butts kicked!
Admiral Byrd, the leader of the fleet is under intense pressure from all sides to explain what is going on and to save the lives of all those under his care. Splitting the fleet up to save those undamaged ships who can escape, Admiral Byrd does what he can to protect his people, when suddenly, just as quickly as they arrived, the enemy departs.
In their absence, the Prime Director, turns the blame on Admiral Byrd. He claims that Byrd knew who these attackers were and that he was coordinating the attack. Admiral Byrd is put in jail pending trial and faces the death penalty if found guilty.
But this is just the tip of a very large iceberg.
There is a mystery to this story, and at the beginning it's tantilisingly just out of reach; but so tempting that you just have to go on reading (what time is it? 1am...phht, just one more hour)
Eventually, after reading a bit longer, you find the threads are all leading you to one huge conspiracy. There are lies on top of lies being told; no one is sure who to trust; there is a bit of jiggery pokery going on in all directions; and mythological goings on too. Small people, rather tall people and swords and destinies being fulfilled left right and center!
There are aliens, some who are seemingly only out to destroy and maime humans, and some who seemingly are out to protect and nurture humans. But why are these attacks happening and who are the ones attacking?
To be honest I was expecting some sort of dryish technically heavy scifi book when I saw the cover for this book, but after reading the blurb about it on Amazon, I decided to give it a go and I'm so glad I did! It's rather good fun. Yes it has a certain unsophistication, a certain niavetė about it perhaps but I think that adds a certain charm to it personally.
The story itself is so full of angles and the action is brilliant! It's not just about one group of people killing another group. There is way more to it than that. If you want to know more then you will have to read it for yourself. It really is worth it I think.
Peacefully orbiting the planet Lumos are a group of humans living in a well ordered and well organised society. They all live peaceful lives without need for aggression or violence
They have lived in this place, on huge ships for 800 years. They have no knowledge of Earth and they believe that they are alone in the universe and they believe their Prime Director, their leader, when he tells them that this is how things have always been. They see no reason to doubt him.
But suddenly, one day without warning, their fleet is attacked. No one knows by whom and no one knows why? But they are nearly overwhelmed.
How can this enemy know them and their weaponry so well? They are being attacked by a far superior power, and getting their butts kicked!
Admiral Byrd, the leader of the fleet is under intense pressure from all sides to explain what is going on and to save the lives of all those under his care. Splitting the fleet up to save those undamaged ships who can escape, Admiral Byrd does what he can to protect his people, when suddenly, just as quickly as they arrived, the enemy departs.
In their absence, the Prime Director, turns the blame on Admiral Byrd. He claims that Byrd knew who these attackers were and that he was coordinating the attack. Admiral Byrd is put in jail pending trial and faces the death penalty if found guilty.
But this is just the tip of a very large iceberg.
There is a mystery to this story, and at the beginning it's tantilisingly just out of reach; but so tempting that you just have to go on reading (what time is it? 1am...phht, just one more hour)
Eventually, after reading a bit longer, you find the threads are all leading you to one huge conspiracy. There are lies on top of lies being told; no one is sure who to trust; there is a bit of jiggery pokery going on in all directions; and mythological goings on too. Small people, rather tall people and swords and destinies being fulfilled left right and center!
There are aliens, some who are seemingly only out to destroy and maime humans, and some who seemingly are out to protect and nurture humans. But why are these attacks happening and who are the ones attacking?
To be honest I was expecting some sort of dryish technically heavy scifi book when I saw the cover for this book, but after reading the blurb about it on Amazon, I decided to give it a go and I'm so glad I did! It's rather good fun. Yes it has a certain unsophistication, a certain niavetė about it perhaps but I think that adds a certain charm to it personally.
The story itself is so full of angles and the action is brilliant! It's not just about one group of people killing another group. There is way more to it than that. If you want to know more then you will have to read it for yourself. It really is worth it I think.
May 25, 2015
Great action, wanted to like the characters better
This book contained the first three "episodes" of the Star Guild series. It's classic space opera and has tons of potential. The action scenes were great, and there were lots of them. Space warfare done write in the descriptions.
However, I had a hard time with one thing. These people spent the first two episodes fighting an unknown enemy and complaining that they never thought anyone would attack them. Ever. So why in the world did they have a huge military fleet and thousands of trained fighter pilots? It seemed like they thought they were the only people in the galaxy, and yet they've put tons of time and money into creating a military community?
They also believed they just came into existence (well most of them, some were starting to question this) living on a space station around a moon or planet or something. No one is that stupid. At least I hope not.
I think I could have liked the entire story better if I had one or two characters I really cared for. We are introduced to several very quickly and then we bounce back and forth. The character that felt the most real to me was Crystal. She's on Lumus when the attack begins and her struggle to survive is what pulled me in.
I almost feel like I need a new scale for this book. Technically I'd give it something more like a 3.75. I did like this book. Great action, fun tech, a good mystery is building with the Prime and the Knights Templar. I just needed a little more emotional connection to the characters. And more Crystal with her Mechs. :)
1-5 scale and what it means:1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love4: Solid mind candy / worth reading4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
This book contained the first three "episodes" of the Star Guild series. It's classic space opera and has tons of potential. The action scenes were great, and there were lots of them. Space warfare done write in the descriptions.
However, I had a hard time with one thing. These people spent the first two episodes fighting an unknown enemy and complaining that they never thought anyone would attack them. Ever. So why in the world did they have a huge military fleet and thousands of trained fighter pilots? It seemed like they thought they were the only people in the galaxy, and yet they've put tons of time and money into creating a military community?
They also believed they just came into existence (well most of them, some were starting to question this) living on a space station around a moon or planet or something. No one is that stupid. At least I hope not.
I think I could have liked the entire story better if I had one or two characters I really cared for. We are introduced to several very quickly and then we bounce back and forth. The character that felt the most real to me was Crystal. She's on Lumus when the attack begins and her struggle to survive is what pulled me in.
I almost feel like I need a new scale for this book. Technically I'd give it something more like a 3.75. I did like this book. Great action, fun tech, a good mystery is building with the Prime and the Knights Templar. I just needed a little more emotional connection to the characters. And more Crystal with her Mechs. :)
1-5 scale and what it means:1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love4: Solid mind candy / worth reading4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
March 31, 2020
Title: Veil Rising
Author: Brandon Ellis
Publisher: LMBPN Publishing
ISBN: b085YBT6WM
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Veil-Rising-St...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Star Guild Saga 1-9
Abducted along with thousands of others. Transported to a world of slavery for alien masters. Mind-wiped, so every hellish day in the mines feels like just another job shift.
This has been going on for millennia. And one day, archaeologist Ali Johnson decodes an ancient Sumerian tablet that unveils the truth. Those secrets set her on a trail of clues that lead to the right place at the absolute wrong time.
The plan to keep humanity at heel relies on periodic purges, and the countdown to genocide is ticking. Ali may be the spark that ignites galactic rebellion.
But before she can save mankind, she must remember who she is, what she’s lost, and why one terrible figure continues to haunt her dreams.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
All Ali knows is her life mining Ebb on her home of Eso. That is until the day she starts having flashbacks of a life on another world, Earth, living with her mother and father. She thinks she is going crazy until her people are attacked threatening all she holds dear. Clues are left behind leaving her pulled towards a mountain where her past and future could lie.
A fight for survival for the humans is about to begin, but who can they trust within a web of lies. There in an old children’s tale that is a time of need call upon the Space Templars for help, but it is only a fairy tale right?
This was a fast paced epic space saga that takes the reader on a journey where the future of the human race is a stake. Ali is a fascinating woman who doesn’t easily accept things that others do placing her in many precarious positions. I for one can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Author: Brandon Ellis
Publisher: LMBPN Publishing
ISBN: b085YBT6WM
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Veil-Rising-St...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Star Guild Saga 1-9
Abducted along with thousands of others. Transported to a world of slavery for alien masters. Mind-wiped, so every hellish day in the mines feels like just another job shift.
This has been going on for millennia. And one day, archaeologist Ali Johnson decodes an ancient Sumerian tablet that unveils the truth. Those secrets set her on a trail of clues that lead to the right place at the absolute wrong time.
The plan to keep humanity at heel relies on periodic purges, and the countdown to genocide is ticking. Ali may be the spark that ignites galactic rebellion.
But before she can save mankind, she must remember who she is, what she’s lost, and why one terrible figure continues to haunt her dreams.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
All Ali knows is her life mining Ebb on her home of Eso. That is until the day she starts having flashbacks of a life on another world, Earth, living with her mother and father. She thinks she is going crazy until her people are attacked threatening all she holds dear. Clues are left behind leaving her pulled towards a mountain where her past and future could lie.
A fight for survival for the humans is about to begin, but who can they trust within a web of lies. There in an old children’s tale that is a time of need call upon the Space Templars for help, but it is only a fairy tale right?
This was a fast paced epic space saga that takes the reader on a journey where the future of the human race is a stake. Ali is a fascinating woman who doesn’t easily accept things that others do placing her in many precarious positions. I for one can’t wait to find out what happens next.
July 5, 2017
I would like to begin by saying how much I enjoyed this book! There were a lot of "Wow, that makes so much sense!" moments.
It was one of the most fast paced stories I have read in a long time and from the moment I started to read it, I knew I couldn't stop. The main characters have strong personalities and all seem to have a connection to the plot that they don't know about initially.
It is a deep space themed science fiction novel that has some religious undertones. The citizens of Starbase Matrona live in space, orbiting a planet that they mine for resources. One day, for seemingly no reason, their home is attacked by an unknown enemy. Many are killed that day, but because of the Fleet Admiral requesting the help of what is thought to be a group of fairy tale heroes, The Knights Templar, the enemies stop their attack. The Admiral is then arrested for treason by the government to cover for a bigger agenda, the brainwashing and genocide of a slave race of humans, used to gather resources used for the survival of a supposedly superior race's planet. Others who don't feel that the attack was his plan begin looking for answers. As they start to uncover what is real and what has been lies all along, everyone is in danger and the truth starts to come out and begin many learn that they are not who they thought they were. Will they be able to save themselves and their people for another culling? With the assistance of new allies, that until now they didn't know existed, a full fledged war is about to begin.
I intend to read the prequel and Book 2!
It was one of the most fast paced stories I have read in a long time and from the moment I started to read it, I knew I couldn't stop. The main characters have strong personalities and all seem to have a connection to the plot that they don't know about initially.
It is a deep space themed science fiction novel that has some religious undertones. The citizens of Starbase Matrona live in space, orbiting a planet that they mine for resources. One day, for seemingly no reason, their home is attacked by an unknown enemy. Many are killed that day, but because of the Fleet Admiral requesting the help of what is thought to be a group of fairy tale heroes, The Knights Templar, the enemies stop their attack. The Admiral is then arrested for treason by the government to cover for a bigger agenda, the brainwashing and genocide of a slave race of humans, used to gather resources used for the survival of a supposedly superior race's planet. Others who don't feel that the attack was his plan begin looking for answers. As they start to uncover what is real and what has been lies all along, everyone is in danger and the truth starts to come out and begin many learn that they are not who they thought they were. Will they be able to save themselves and their people for another culling? With the assistance of new allies, that until now they didn't know existed, a full fledged war is about to begin.
I intend to read the prequel and Book 2!
July 13, 2017
Great Space Opera. The plot is good. Attack by unknown enemy. Attempt to annihilate the human race. Space battles. Intrigue, mysteries, backstabbing, double-crosses. All great. Mr. Ellis knows how to tell a story that will keep his audience glued to the page, or screen, monitor, whatever.
There are a couple of irritating faults in the writing, though. Constantly writing that the doors open vertically is not necessary, once we know that a door on the star ship opens vertically we can take that as a given. And which way is vertically? Do they open up, or down, with a horizontal opening? Or sideways, with a vertical opening? I thought I had it until a flat rock balanced vertically on two other rocks was described as providing a roof. Really? A vertical roof? How's that work? Ending sentences with at, for, etc. is simply bad grammar. Have someone proofread the work that is not grammatically challenged, please.
I have seen grammar in books that is much worse, so this wasn't too bad. I have also seen repetition that is much worse, so I can accept that, too. But a vertical roof? Okay, I can let that one slide, too. But all together? The cost is one star.
Fix those minor faults and this will be a five star book.
One other good thing, no DRM.
I recommend this book.
There are a couple of irritating faults in the writing, though. Constantly writing that the doors open vertically is not necessary, once we know that a door on the star ship opens vertically we can take that as a given. And which way is vertically? Do they open up, or down, with a horizontal opening? Or sideways, with a vertical opening? I thought I had it until a flat rock balanced vertically on two other rocks was described as providing a roof. Really? A vertical roof? How's that work? Ending sentences with at, for, etc. is simply bad grammar. Have someone proofread the work that is not grammatically challenged, please.
I have seen grammar in books that is much worse, so this wasn't too bad. I have also seen repetition that is much worse, so I can accept that, too. But a vertical roof? Okay, I can let that one slide, too. But all together? The cost is one star.
Fix those minor faults and this will be a five star book.
One other good thing, no DRM.
I recommend this book.
June 3, 2014
It is a good beginning
A fan of sci-fi and military novels, this is a lot of one and a little of the other.
It is a good beginning. As first chapters go, I have seen poorer efforts. As a stand alone book, chapter, short story does not work. It needs the rest of the episodes. It is engaging enough, it tickled my curiosity, but no further.
Essentially, it begs to many questions to make me commit to the rest of the story. Is the Prime a bad guy? Is the Prime an undercover good guy? What happens to the heroic pilot? Did she died a heroic death or was she rescued? All good questions, well set up and reasonably structured to make you curious. But, to me, I want to be entertained, not lured. Therefore, although good, I wish it had some closure. I wish it worked with me not to get me.
Check it out and, if it hooks you, you will probably enjoy the rest of the episodes.
A fan of sci-fi and military novels, this is a lot of one and a little of the other.
It is a good beginning. As first chapters go, I have seen poorer efforts. As a stand alone book, chapter, short story does not work. It needs the rest of the episodes. It is engaging enough, it tickled my curiosity, but no further.
Essentially, it begs to many questions to make me commit to the rest of the story. Is the Prime a bad guy? Is the Prime an undercover good guy? What happens to the heroic pilot? Did she died a heroic death or was she rescued? All good questions, well set up and reasonably structured to make you curious. But, to me, I want to be entertained, not lured. Therefore, although good, I wish it had some closure. I wish it worked with me not to get me.
Check it out and, if it hooks you, you will probably enjoy the rest of the episodes.
March 24, 2020
A fast-paced read. Well thought out. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
This is not your standard shoot'em up space opera science fiction novel. This is a well-thought out archaeologist inspired story with a thousand-year-old back story. Enslaved humans living and working in space, with no recollection of the Earth they were stolen away from. Mining ore on a far-flung planet, living and dying while under the thumb of a "Master Race" in an unnatural society that they are slowly starting to understand is not the real path that they should be on. This spark of rebellion caused by one Admiral, his fleet trapped and soon to be destroyed, sends out a distress message to the mythical "Space Templars." To his surprise the Space Templars arrive and save what is left of his fleet, utterly destroying the attacking ships. This is where the story really starts to build momentum.
This is not your standard shoot'em up space opera science fiction novel. This is a well-thought out archaeologist inspired story with a thousand-year-old back story. Enslaved humans living and working in space, with no recollection of the Earth they were stolen away from. Mining ore on a far-flung planet, living and dying while under the thumb of a "Master Race" in an unnatural society that they are slowly starting to understand is not the real path that they should be on. This spark of rebellion caused by one Admiral, his fleet trapped and soon to be destroyed, sends out a distress message to the mythical "Space Templars." To his surprise the Space Templars arrive and save what is left of his fleet, utterly destroying the attacking ships. This is where the story really starts to build momentum.
June 4, 2020
Veil Rising (The Star Guild Saga - Book 1)
By Brandon Ellis AH
The Veil Rising is the first book in “The Star Guild Saga” series. I enjoyed the story line that had good pacing to keep the reader’s interest up. Humans had been stolen from Earth and put into mines to work for aliens, their minds wiped to keep them from questioning or trying to break the cycle. When some find memories coming back, there might be hope for regaining freedom. There is not much time left, however, and archaeologist Ali Johnson needs to remember more about herself and the horrible figure that torments her in dreams.
It’s exciting to follow the twists and turns to see how everything will play out. The story is intriguing and raises lots of questions.
By Brandon Ellis AH
The Veil Rising is the first book in “The Star Guild Saga” series. I enjoyed the story line that had good pacing to keep the reader’s interest up. Humans had been stolen from Earth and put into mines to work for aliens, their minds wiped to keep them from questioning or trying to break the cycle. When some find memories coming back, there might be hope for regaining freedom. There is not much time left, however, and archaeologist Ali Johnson needs to remember more about herself and the horrible figure that torments her in dreams.
It’s exciting to follow the twists and turns to see how everything will play out. The story is intriguing and raises lots of questions.
December 21, 2013
Author Brandon Ellis sets things up nicely in episode one.
The Star Guild fleet around Lumus is suddenly attacked by an unknown alien force. Admiral Byrd barely makes it to his flagship, the Starship Brigantia. Other starships in the fleet are being destroyed and the only thing to do is retreat and form up until they could see what they were dealing with.
The fleet is divided when one starship stays to rescue folks on the planet surface. It's their family members down there. The starbase hadn't made a jump in eight hundred years, but Byrd gives co-ordinates and they jump.
Quite enjoyed episode one and look forward to more installments in this new series.
The Star Guild fleet around Lumus is suddenly attacked by an unknown alien force. Admiral Byrd barely makes it to his flagship, the Starship Brigantia. Other starships in the fleet are being destroyed and the only thing to do is retreat and form up until they could see what they were dealing with.
The fleet is divided when one starship stays to rescue folks on the planet surface. It's their family members down there. The starbase hadn't made a jump in eight hundred years, but Byrd gives co-ordinates and they jump.
Quite enjoyed episode one and look forward to more installments in this new series.
June 7, 2017
In the Veil Rising: Book One of the Star Guild Saga by Brandon Ellis, you are introduced to an engaging storyline and non-stop tension throughout the book. I like the various points of view and the switching back and forth between the characters. Each character is unique and has interesting quirks and storylines. Many twists, turns, and surprises kept you on your toes and the edge of your seat.
I enjoy reading books that have strong female characters. And the book contained all the elements of two different sets of minds: those that follow orders to the letter and those that see a job to be done and do it no matter what the consequences. An overall enjoyable read.
I enjoy reading books that have strong female characters. And the book contained all the elements of two different sets of minds: those that follow orders to the letter and those that see a job to be done and do it no matter what the consequences. An overall enjoyable read.
June 14, 2017
Very enjoyable characters and plot.
The characters are very well fleshed out. The action unfolds naturally with multiple twists and turns. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Beware however because this is definitely not a standalone, it ends in an unsatisfying manner but I will be reading the next book so the author accomplished his mission.
Bonus: Lots of strong female characters
Plot: an alien race attacks the Star Guild and the Fleet Admiral makes the decision to jump what is left of the fleet away from the fighting. The people of the Star Guild are unaware that aliens exist. Anything else will be spoilers.
The characters are very well fleshed out. The action unfolds naturally with multiple twists and turns. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Beware however because this is definitely not a standalone, it ends in an unsatisfying manner but I will be reading the next book so the author accomplished his mission.
Bonus: Lots of strong female characters
Plot: an alien race attacks the Star Guild and the Fleet Admiral makes the decision to jump what is left of the fleet away from the fighting. The people of the Star Guild are unaware that aliens exist. Anything else will be spoilers.
June 26, 2017
This is book 1 of the Star Guild Saga and certainly starts the series off with a bang. So much action and suspense it almost makes you dizzy. Admiral Byrd and his human fleet are attacked by the enemy who seems to know more about them and their weakness than they do. During this time many humans who have been asleep are starting to wake up and take action. A little like what is happening today. A very well written book that captures your attention right at the beginning and has you page turning from then on. Can't wait for the next installment. I received an advance copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it.
September 1, 2017
3.5 stars. The Veil Rising is the first book in the Star Guild Saga series. I wasn't sure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised by the storyline. This is the kind of SciFi Military Thriller that I love to read. The book should not be read as a standalone and ends with a cliffhanger. There is violence.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat all of that info here. The author did a good job of giving readers an overview of what the series is about. There are a lot of twists, turns, and surprises written in the storyline. I really enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to read more of this series.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat all of that info here. The author did a good job of giving readers an overview of what the series is about. There are a lot of twists, turns, and surprises written in the storyline. I really enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to read more of this series.
April 18, 2019
Will the Truth Kill You?
This is a propitious beginning to a space opera based on the premise that humans long ago had been made slaves and were kept dumbed-down and ignorant. The repeating cycle ends when humans begin to see through the veil. They are destroyed and a new cycle of engineered humans is started.
This cycle is ending a little differently. Humans led by a few who seem destined for something more are aided by magical and mythological creatures. The story is fast paced and nicely combines sci-fi with fantasy.
It takes a while to start understanding this world. But then, that is also what's happening to the human protagonists.
This is a propitious beginning to a space opera based on the premise that humans long ago had been made slaves and were kept dumbed-down and ignorant. The repeating cycle ends when humans begin to see through the veil. They are destroyed and a new cycle of engineered humans is started.
This cycle is ending a little differently. Humans led by a few who seem destined for something more are aided by magical and mythological creatures. The story is fast paced and nicely combines sci-fi with fantasy.
It takes a while to start understanding this world. But then, that is also what's happening to the human protagonists.
April 1, 2020
Ok, this is the perfect time for an engrossing universe spanning, mankind enslaving and periodic purging conspiracy action adventure novel, and Veil Rising (The Star Guild Saga, Book 1) totally delivers. Just in time. My whole family is caught up in CORVID-19 insanity (two hospitalized for other reasons, who we cannot visit, and 1 tested positive and in quarantine though no overt symptoms so far) and I simply neeeed good books to keep me sane. This is a particularly good one, as I expected since I know that I can count on anything written by Brandon Ellis. Highly recommended for fun ... and sanity saving.
April 4, 2020
The inhabitants of starbase Matrona have been unwitting slaves for millennia, but lately some of them have been remembering another world and another life. To make matters worse, now they're being attacked and some of them believe it's all happened before, so what else are they to do but call the Space Templars?
This first book of a new series by Brandon Ellis introduces a lot of characters and sub-plots that have a lot of promise. Unfortunately, very little gets resolved, so if you're a "one and done" fan, this probably isn't the book for you but if you're willing to make a commitment to sticking with it for a book or too there's a lot here that holds promise.
This first book of a new series by Brandon Ellis introduces a lot of characters and sub-plots that have a lot of promise. Unfortunately, very little gets resolved, so if you're a "one and done" fan, this probably isn't the book for you but if you're willing to make a commitment to sticking with it for a book or too there's a lot here that holds promise.
November 29, 2014
An exciting ride through a deep space war. Imagine being attacked by an unknown enemy. One that could destroy the indestructible. This series is a fast paced science fiction adventure sure to please any diehard sci-fi fan.
I am hoping that I can continue to see where this story will lead. A great series, one that would make for a great television series or series of movies. I would place this in the same category as such classics as Star Wars, Star Trek, and Babylon V. A great read. Brandon Ellis has a vivid imagination and a fast paced form of storytelling.
I am hoping that I can continue to see where this story will lead. A great series, one that would make for a great television series or series of movies. I would place this in the same category as such classics as Star Wars, Star Trek, and Babylon V. A great read. Brandon Ellis has a vivid imagination and a fast paced form of storytelling.
July 23, 2017
A Mysterious Space Opera
This book is an interesting and unusual blend of action-packed Space Opera and Paranormal Sci-fi Mystery. In the heart of the mystery stand the mythical Knights Templar. Learn about evil aliens and their grievous plans as well as an intergalactic brotherhood of Light Warriors. Experience the struggles, doubts and hopes of the various humanly imperfect characters. Some are more likeable than others.
Also there are a few minor spelling errors.
This book is an interesting and unusual blend of action-packed Space Opera and Paranormal Sci-fi Mystery. In the heart of the mystery stand the mythical Knights Templar. Learn about evil aliens and their grievous plans as well as an intergalactic brotherhood of Light Warriors. Experience the struggles, doubts and hopes of the various humanly imperfect characters. Some are more likeable than others.
Also there are a few minor spelling errors.
April 29, 2020
A long way from home
The beginning chapters reflect the confusion of an unknown enemy, and set the scene for what is to come. This is a story with intrigue, political manoeuvring, cover ups, suspenseful moments, and forgotten history. The differing factions are confusing as they are revealed, however we see more clearly as things unfold. By the end of this first novel, a whole new era awaits our characters.
The beginning chapters reflect the confusion of an unknown enemy, and set the scene for what is to come. This is a story with intrigue, political manoeuvring, cover ups, suspenseful moments, and forgotten history. The differing factions are confusing as they are revealed, however we see more clearly as things unfold. By the end of this first novel, a whole new era awaits our characters.
April 30, 2020
A long way from home
The beginning chapters reflect the confusion of an unknown enemy, and set the scene for what is to come. This is a story with intrigue, political manoeuvring, cover ups, suspenseful moments, and forgotten history. The differing factions are confusing as they are revealed, however we see more clearly as things unfold. By the end of this first novel, a whole new era awaits our characters.
The beginning chapters reflect the confusion of an unknown enemy, and set the scene for what is to come. This is a story with intrigue, political manoeuvring, cover ups, suspenseful moments, and forgotten history. The differing factions are confusing as they are revealed, however we see more clearly as things unfold. By the end of this first novel, a whole new era awaits our characters.
March 23, 2020
Great story! This is an epic book with an exciting, twisting plot and excellent, believable dialogue. The characters are fully realized; they quickly get into your mind and heart - especially Ali, Shae, Eden, and Skye. I’m looking forward to the next tale in this universe!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
April 1, 2020
Fabulous read! I hated putting it down to go to sleep every night. It has a little of everything...aliens, space ships, humans, technology, battles, intrigue, plot twists. Loved it. The characters were great. Ali and Daf started out not liking each other but through shared life and death struggles in the end they are friends. I can’t wait to read book 2.
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