TIMBERWOLF: Book One in the Spy-fi ‘Timberwolf’ Series

by Tom Julian

Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled rollercoaster ride with TIMBERWOLF, the first installment in the gripping “spy-fi” series by Tom Julian, where thrilling espionage and futuristic encounters meet! "The storytelling in Timberwolf is some of the most captivating imagery... A true throwback to Fred Saberhagen's Berserker Series." —BRAXTON A. COSBY, author of The Star-Crossed Saga "Timberwolf is what you'd get if Dirty Harry and Ripley had a son." —MERRILL R. CHAPMAN, author of In Search of Stupidity "The action is simply amazing; it makes putting the book down nearly impossible." —TITO MARTÍNEZ BARBERI, author of The Keeper of the Balance series Once a top black ops agent, Timberwolf Velez's world shatters when he encounters Kizik, a malevolent psychic alien spider that leaves a lasting mark on his psyche. Haunted by his past, Timberwolf now faces an ominous threat as a religious fanatic unearths a hidden cache of unimaginably destructive weapons. Will Timberwolf rise above his shattered mind and prevent the galaxy from descending into irreversible chaos? With an ensemble of captivating characters and exhilarating twists at every turn, Book One in the Spy-Fi ‘Timberwolf’ Series will keep you on the edge of your seat. Brace yourself for a heart-pounding, action-packed page-turner that refuses to release its grip.

Genres: Science Fiction, Audiobook, Science Fiction Fantasy, Adventure, Thriller, Fantasy, Aliens

336 pages, Paperback

First published August 20, 2015

About the author

Tom Julian works days helping patients enroll in life-changing clinical trials, and nights and weekends as an author. He enjoys traveling, long-distance cycling, and waking up early to brew the perfect cup of coffee. He’s an unabashed beer snob and native of Trenton, New Jersey. Tom’s first novel, Timberwolf, is a military science fiction story originally envisioned as a film. The author worked hard to transfer its cinematic qualities to the page and hopes that Twolf is the best science-fiction movie you'll ever read! Tom is the father of Astur and Liam and husband to the lovely Brenda-Lea. He will cross the street to pet your dog. Favorite movie/book/food = O Brother, Where Art Thou?/The Sirens of Titan/Trenton-style tomato pie.

Reviews

[Dino-Jess ✮ The Book Eating Dinosaur ✮ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Timberwolf is an military man through and through. He is tough, he is brutal and he gets the job done. He was always known as the best man for the job, and unfortunately for him, that meant he was exposed to a very aggressive enemy in the line of fire. In addition to normal battle scars, Timberwolf now carries the consciousness of an alien inside his brain. This alien, of a creepy breed of alien spider known as the Arnock, is called Kizik, and he’s a dick. Kizik wants to take over the galaxy, but Timberwolf and the merry band of misfits that he deals with/gets kidnapped by/tries to kill along the way, have to thwart this with all their might, and that is what this book is about.

This book was a thrill ride, that’s for sure.

I read a comment from the author on someone else’s review of this, that this book was based off a movie script, and I can definitely see where this has translated particularly well. The action sequences were fantastic, they jumped off the page and the imagery was so vivid that I could picture it all unfolding in my brain, much like an episode of Stargate/Battlestar Gallactica or a high octane action film like G.I. Joe.

However, while the action sequences were engaging and exciting, I felt the lulls in this book were very pronounced. There were sometimes stretches where I would yawn and be looking at my watch, waiting for the next action sequence to happen. Some of the secondary story lines bored me to tears, and although they were all necessary to set up the big finale, there seemed to be way too much POV swapping and towards the end of the book it seemed like every single character got a chapter for their own POV. This lessened the impact of the story telling in my opinion, and made me lose connection with Timberwolf.

There are numerous “bad guys” in this book, and while Kizik was an excellent malevolent character, the others were a little wishy washy and their motivations seemed sketchy at best. I’m looking at you Gray, he never seems to quite know what he wants to do, especially in relation to Timberwolf.

Speaking of which, I wanted Timberwolf to be more prominent in this story. There was a lot of talking about Timberwolf, scheming about Timberwolf and bitching about Timberwolf from the other characters, but I wanted him to be more front and centre, because he is after all, our hero and the namesake of the book. His chapters were the best, and his one liners were great, but they were too few and far between for my liking.

I liked the very subtle love interest that went on between Salla and Timberwolf. The banter they shared was witty and enjoyable. If you aren’t into romance, don’t worry, this is definitely not a love story, just a spark of a little something between two people, but Timberwolf is definitely a chivalrous kind of guy deep down, he does, after all, choose to shoot himself in the face rather than shoot Salla in a confrontation.

The ending of this was gross. I am all for leaving options open for a sequel, but that ending was not fulfilling at all. There are still so many questions! It all seemed rather sudden and I would have preferred a cleaner, more rounded out ending that tied off loose ends a little better.

Having said all this though, I enjoyed this book. Sure, it has its flaws but it was entertaining and I would happily ride shotgun in a space ship with Timberwolf. He’s my kind of damaged, strong, resilient leading man.

3 we-are-forsaken Stars

Thank you kindly to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Dan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried to get into this book, but it just didn't take. It was a combination of things: the strange religion of eradicating all non humans, the spider things that mind controlled everyone, the killer cats that are some how ginormous and able to do anything or kill anyone.

Also, being the first book it's a bit weird to feel like you're starting in the middle of the series...

Maybe it's a great book for some people, but I just couldn't get through it.

[Merrill Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Timberwolf had me with its cover image of its eponymous hero puffing on a stogie. I have to tell you, watching environmentalists and "Moms against Smoke" and every other social nag and bureaucratic Bossy Boots faint, whine, and pass stupid intrusive laws when someone puffs on a bit of tobacco while simultaneously hacking huge clouds of unfiltered pot smoke into their lungs while beginning the inevitable cycle of stupid giggles and jokes that are only funny to the temporarily mentally impaired is painful. Timberwolf would throw the whole lot out the airlock of a spaceship first thing and wouldn't that be grand!

Here's a bit more macho musing for you. One of the great things about Heinlein's Star Ship Troopers series was that wussy little girly boys weren't welcome. Johnny Rico was there to kick Bug and Skinny ass and he enjoyed doing it. If someone from Code Pink had shown up before a drop, they'd have been fed to the aliens alive as a diversionary tactic. That's MY kind of fighting force!

Another thing I love about Timberwolf is attitude. In Sci-Fi, Earth has recently become a dumping ground for every second-rate group of interstellar under-achievers and delinquents. Ok, Ok, I admit that Earth as Pantywaist started with H.G. Wells and War of the Worlds and that evil meanies from outer space conquering all Peoplekind (I bet Timberwolf would say "Mankind" cuz that's how he roles) remains a very durable plot line, but I think the zeitgeist has moved too far recently in the direction of political mush and PC. It's time for a corrective.

Timberwolf Velez is the corrective. He's what you'd get if Dirty Harry and Ripley married and had a son. In his future, EARTH is the dystopia, and we've become very good at dishing out pain and punishment to misbehaving aliens. It's not only the military that's in on the action. The Church (the denomination is not made clear in the novel, but it feels like what you'd get if the Catholic Church started going to the gym, bulked up with 'roids, and started using those chalices not to drink wine but instead dent the heads of vicious off-world scum and teach them who's boss. I have a feeling if the current Pope reads Timberwolf, he'll faint.) is also in on the fun and a key player in book's plot.

The plot of the novel takes place in an expansive and action filled universe in which humanity has moved out to the stars and fought with great success a series of wars with alien species. Driven by religion and xenophobia, it appears we've solidified our role as Galactic Apex Predator until we confront the Arnock, a species of giant intelligent spiders who are also telepathic and no pushovers. During the conflict, Timberwolf has the misfortune to meet the enemy up close and personal, and ends up with an evil-alien-giant-spider persona permanently implanted in his psyche. Ah, but is everything what it seems? Just how evil are those spiders, really? And as the action unfolds between Church, Arachnid, and Highland, an entire world constructed for an AI, the lines between good and evil become increasingly blurred.

At least till Timberwolf Velez begins handing down some hard justice. Even if he has to do it with that damn spider still stuck in his head.

There's plenty of slam-bang action writing in the novel that will keep the pages turning. Some of the best scenes involve "Wrath," a bio-mechanoid warrior who's almost as dangerous as Timberwolf. Wrath is what you'd get if you crossed "Alien" with "Predator" and the resultant hybrid joined the Catholic Church down at the gym for its own killer workout.

Here's one early scene of Wrath doing what he does best:

The guard emptied his weapon on Wrath, but the plasma bursts deflected harmlessly away. The beast approached closely, scanning the door, the guard struggling to reload. Wrath absently slashed the guard down as he examined the lock. Then with his shoulders flexing, he turned the wheel on the door until its gears snapped and spun free. Bayonets extruded from over his forearms and he dug into the lock mechanism. He peeled the door outward, tearing it off its hinges. He tossed it away as two guards on the other side unloaded their weapons on him.

Wrath lashed out with his razor-tipped tongue, taking one guard’s head clean off. His plasma clip empty, the other man just stood there, terrified and unable to make a sound. Wrath backed up, dropped his head and drove his iron-crowned skull into the man’s chest, smashing him against the wall. The guard crumpled like a rag-doll.

Wrath and author Tom Julian are just warming up at this point.

OK, I've said enough. Now, you maggot, go pour yourself a long pull of a good bourbon, light up a smooth maduro, and sit down to enjoy a classic Earth-Kicks-Alien-Butt tale with just enough humanist subtlety and angst to allow you to escape accusations of Terran Nativism.

In sum, Timberwolf is fast paced, dynamic, and a blast to read.

[P.A. Rudders · Rating 5 out of 5]

As in common with many of the very best titles that Sci-fi has to offer, this is a story that incorporates many traditional elements of the genre; interstellar travel, alien species, and advanced technology to name just a few but amid all that, the real strength of the story is how those elements are used to draw the reader into what is a multi-layered roller coaster of excitement and intrigue. The story starts off exceptionally well, introducing Wraith, a bio engineered killing alien machine in the service of its human masters. Alongside Wraith we have several other equally engaging characters: first and foremost we have Timberwolf himself, a sort of cross between Stan Lee’s Ironman and Arnie’s Exterminator, and the only one capable of taking on Wraith. Opposite Timberwolf we have Emanuel Gray, the antagonist to Timberwolf’s protagonist, a former military man now using his supposed religious beliefs as vehicle for his own militaristic ambitions and agenda of seizing control of an A.I. controlled facility that would give him unprecedented military power.

Set as it is some 250 years in the future, there have not surprisingly been incredible advances in technology, enabling mankind to venture out among the stars, but not so far into the future as to have to change society and its technology beyond all recognition; artificial intelligence, nano-technology, and advanced battle armour, all with their roots in the science of today, give the sci-fi elements a topical and therefore believable feel to them. What hasn’t advanced though sadly in this vision of the future are some of the less than noble traits of mankind’s nature – greed, treachery, religious bigotry, and war feature most prominently in this story; just as the religious Crusades of the eleventh to thirteenth centuries resulted in some horrific conflicts so too has mankind’s contact with other species resulting in most being virtually exterminated. The one race to still pose a threat to mankind’s dominance is the Arnock, a spider-like race with mind invasive abilities that make it a formidable enemy, a fact that Timberwolf has painful and personal experience of.

Although this is primarily what I would call hard or traditional sci-fi, some of the themes and terminology give the story a steampunk feel to it; the use of terms such as galley, cargo holds, and gangplanks when referring to some aspects of one of the spaceships puts the reader in mind of rebellious space pirates or crusaders. The many different worlds and species also put me in mind of Peter F Hamilton’s highly imaginative and entertaining space opera type stories. This was an exciting and enjoyable story that kept me enthralled from beginning to end. I would have preferred a more comprehensive ending but overall this a first rate Sci-fi story, well-written and with all the requisite elements to please most fans of the genre.

[Peter D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not really a sci-fi reader, preferring the epic fantasy genre or those science fiction stories that have a metaphysical or fantasy element such as Dan Simmons or Gene Wolfe, but I'm glad I sojourned into this intergalactic post-war story crafted by Tom Julian. The story is interesting- plot is concise, not superfluous, and is fast-paced. The characters are likable--not too good though. The characters are flawed, have dark histories, and I even empathized with some of the villains. The novel has a post-modern vibe. This is a good thing in my opinion. I tend to shun anything that's too lofty or idealistic.

The writing is tight. Pacing and words flow. After a couple minutes of reading, I'm lost in the story--which to me is an indicator of whether I like a book or not. There's not a single typo because Mr. Julian can write really well and he had a professional editor.

From what I do know of science fiction, this isn't hard sci-fi. Mr. Julian doesn't get caught up in the science of the technology, instead focusing on the characters and their thoughts, feelings, and decisions. It's not unbelievable either. The physics all make sense in the context of the story world. It's consistent. Even so, in the soft sci-fi genre (is that even a thing?), some authors like Neal Stephenson tend to over obsess with descriptions of gadgets. Mr. Julian keeps it to what matters most, the story.

I'll definitely be on the lookout for more of Mr. Julian's work.

[Glenn Herdling · Rating 5 out of 5]

For fans of classic science fiction with a modern twist, Thomas Julian’s Timberwolf is an action-packed yarn from cover-to-cover that doesn’t skimp on story, character, or conflict. There are no black hats or white hats in Timberwolf, just varying degrees of gray. The title character, Timberwolf Velez, isn’t your traditional hero. He’s just a man put into a no-win situation by forces beyond his control who uses every means at his disposal to stay alive.

Unlike traditional s.f., it’s not the aliens who are the invaders in Timberwolf—it’s us! Humankind has made the leap to space and with it has brought armed missionaries bent on bringing the word of God to heathen aliens and destroying those not cast in God’s image. Think of it as The Chronicles of Riddick meets A Canticle for Liebowitz on the set of Starship Troopers. But the military, religious, and political themes never intrude upon the epic space battles—they only serve to enhance them.

[Richard Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author. It started a little slow but then I was sucked into the book and didn't want to put it down. I enjoyed it and would like to see more about this character.

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

( Format : Audiobook )
"You are the fire. We are the wind."
With so many human versus alien futuristic military action stories available nowadays, it is unusual to find one which is completely different. Timberwolf is one. From the real excellence of it's writing quality, through the way in which the natures of the several main protagonists is revealed, to the turned upside down driving forces behind the warring action itself, all feels immersive, dragging the reader into a very bleak universe where nothing is quite what it seems. And yet is also very straightforward.

As in the beginning of Dune, the reader is thrown without prior information into the heart of the story. To name just a few, there is Timberwolf Valez, a once powerful military man, Gray, his former friend and commander, now a Bishop leading the religious extremists to war, a deposed Cardinal Prime, Michael, who once saved Timber's life and is a clear second to Gray now, Doctor Tier, a peace operative at the very top of the organisation, ferocious weapons of the near indestructible genetic kind, like Wrath, and also central to (or at the head of) the story there is Kizik, an huge spider shaped, telepathic alien who can enter and control Timberwolf's brain. His main motivation is to get the spider out. But Kizik is no ordinary arachnid: his face had already been seriously depleted by attacking humans and he was determined that his culture should survive - because, essentially they were a peace loving, philosophical and artistic culture whose way of life had been attacked and most!y destroyed by the humans with their religious attitude that aliens were not wanted by God to exist. Over the preceding century, the Earthers had encountered, and mostly eradicated, some 28 species of aliens. And the wars had been very financially rewarding. Now, led by Bishop Gray, the Believers were being led to waragain, despite the best efforts of the DEP (Department of Peace Enforcement). Confusing? Yes, but very intriguing. Dialogue is sparse, action fast and furious but not over the top in descriptive moves or spread out over pages. Everything is very tight, extremely visual and enthralling thrilling. The need to know what happens knots the reader's stomach, does not allow him or her to leave without intense difficulty. And the - it's over! This world which has become so real is gone again. But there will be a sequel.

So, a masterly story, also well read by C.J.McAllister. His pleasant to hear voice is well modulated, and expertly paced. He exhibits just enough emotion into the narration to further hold the reader and gives individual voice to the protagonists. A good performance which enhances the enjoyment of this book.

I was very fortunate in being freely gifted with a complimentary copy of Timberwolf, at my request via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. This was an excellent story, peopled with well developed characters, yet still moved at great speed through visually brilliant scenarios. What a stunning film this could make - the life-weary not-quite-a-superhero who shares his head with an alien, the horrifying spider race which is more harmed than harmful, the religious fervour and love of power and war of the humans, strange living war machines, a calculating, but sad, AI and her creatures - there is so much crammed into this amazing book.
I look forward to the next.
If you enjoy science fiction, or just an amazing story, this book is recommended.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is one wild ride of a book.

First of all, I love all types of sci-fi, but I haven’t read a lot in the spy\thriller sub genre, so I was excited to take the plunge.

Timberwolf is like Star Trek meets Riddick meets the Culture Series, with a dash of John Wick. The protagonist is a badass guy that’s just a bit snarky at all the right times. An encounter with a mind altering spider messes with his head in some really freaky ways, and a dangerous religious fanatic named Gray shows up. Basically this crazy religious guy used to be his mentor… but he’s totally off his rocker now, and he’s about to break into a huge weapons factory. If that happens… it’s bad news bears all around.

Timberwolf has to stop Gray and his recruits, while dealing with his psychic trauma. The stakes are high in this one. Plus- it’s literally nonstop action from beginning to end. I couldn’t put this book down!

The world building is so much fun. At one point, there are nano bots in clouds that form terrifying faces as a warning. There is also an AI named Penny who I absolutely adored.

Overall, Timberwolf will appeal to anyone looking for high action scifi with a badass protagonist! You may not like this book if you don’t enjoy the whole ‘one badass dude takes down an army’ type tropes, but I enjoy that kind of book.

Thank you to Tom Julian for sending this book in exchange for a review!

[Jimmy · Rating 1 out of 5]

After nine chapters, I could not finish this book. Nothing against the book, it's just not for me. Personally, I felt like I was reading more of a religious crusade book when I wanted a more Battle for Corrin book. The religious beliefs and their power are not far from fiction. A lot of what the church is doing on different worlds is happening right now on Earth. I wanted to like this book, but it's not for me.

[James Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I generally don't write reviews, as I have a tendency to give away a lot more of the book than I should. Anyway, I really liked this book. Great action scenes, awesome storyline, and the main character is flawed yet kick ass. Give it a read, you'll like it.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Timberwolf is a singularly devastating and action-packed glimpse into one all-too-plausible future for humanity, one where the religious beliefs that drive men to kill one another have instead been turned against all non-human life in the Galaxy. These supposedly “lesser” beings, condemned simply for being something other than human, must be eradicated for the glory of God, or so the Believers say. Humanity has already driven nearly thirty alien species to the brink of extinction. The Believers, an all-too-powerful sect dedicated to continuing humanity’s bloody conquest through the galaxy, seek to control the ultimate weapon: Highland, the most advanced weapons manufacturer in existence. If the Believers take Highland, the galaxy will fall.
The Believers, however, are not the only ones competing for this illustrious prize; the human Department for Peace Enforcement, the human military, and the Arnock—one of the few species humanity was unable to destroy—are also vying for the prize they cannot afford to lose. The Department for Peace Enforcement (known as D.P.E.) seeks to prevent the Believers and the military from seizing Highland and laying waste to the galaxy, while the Arnock are seeking a way to save their people. The Arnock, a once peaceful society, have been all but shattered by the human attack. Most of the species now lies in hibernation, controlled by a few telepathy-wielding Masters who have long guided Arnock society. One of those Masters—the most powerful of all, someone who is now described by his own people as a monster—has gone to war. If he seizes Highland, humanity will surely fall.
Enter Timberwolf, the hero of our tale. Nominally affiliated with the D.E.P., a department in which he once served, it soon becomes clear that Timberwolf serves no one’s purpose but his own. His goal is to once again be alone in his own head. Ever since a D.E.P. disastrous mission, Timberwolf has been playing the reluctant host to a Master Arnock, the very same master who has set his sights on Highland. In addition to being able to see through Timberwolf’s eyes, this Arnock is also able to seize control of his body, forcing him to do unspeakable things. The Arnock in his head makes Timberland a most unreliable ally—as much of a danger as he is a help—but as a myriad of hostile forces close in, the masters of Highland turn to him to save the galaxy.
Apart from the Arnock, Timberwolf’s most pressing foe is his one-time commander and friend Emmanuel Gray. Now a bishop for the Believers, Emmanuel Gray aims to take Highland. At his disposal are a ship, a loyal crew, and a nearly unstoppable creature named Wrath, a genetically modified biological weapon created at Highland. Gray, the self-styled “Sword of God,” will seemingly do anything to achieve his purpose. But he also harbors a secret, one that relates to Timberwolf’s own past, a secret that change the course of history forever.
Brilliantly crafted, this tale is simultaneously chilling and uplifting. I literally had goose bumps on my arm (the good kind, the ones I only get when watching/reading something really good) after the final scene but don’t be tempted to skip to the end—it’s well worth the wait.

[Eric Lahti · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent sci-fi story...

The Timberwolf in the title refers to the main character of the book, a straight-forward guy named Timberwolf Velez. He's a fighter, a straight-shooter, and a guy with a big damned spider stuck in his head. It's hard to not like Timberwolf, or at the very least respect him.

In the future, as humanity finally got off its collective butt and started out for the stars, we discovered that we were not the only sentient life in the galaxy. We took our tools, our petty worries, our warlike nature, and - perhaps worst of all - our religious beliefs out among the stars with us. When we encountered alien life we found it was incompatible with our religious views. How can God have created us in his image and also created giant mind-bending spiders in his image? Someone, it would seem, is lying and those guys over there look pretty freaky so they must be the ones that need to go.

Religious dogma being what it is, we (humans) exterminated (or attempted to exterminate) every bit of sentient life we came across on the grounds that God meant for that happen. This is the backdrop to Timberwolf. The story takes place after humanity has mopped the floor with almost everyone except the Arnok (the aforementioned spiders). True to the best science fiction stories, Timberwolf has a human heart; it's not about the combat suits or space ships, it's about the people and their motivations for doing what they do. Like all good sci-fi, the bad guys trend more toward morally ambiguous than flat-out evil and the good guys are only slightly less morally ambiguous. This gives us a well-rounded cast of characters that you can actually relate to. Even the giant spider is relatable (for those of you not terrified by the thought of giant mind-controlling spiders).

The downside to all that war is there are people out there who want to continue it and will do anything in their power to finally get rid of the mote in God's eye (the giant spiders). There are groups who only want money and power, a group who will stop at nothing to prevent another war, and our good friend Timberwolf Velez, who just wants the spider out of his head.

There are some seriously big themes covered in this novel, and they're covered well. Religion takes a couple shots on the nose, as do regular human greed, and our tendency to attempt to justify our horrible actions through flimsy excuses. There is one serious shot across the bow of religious dogmatism that comes toward the end of the novel as the antagonist (who himself is actually relatable, too) is watching the events he conspired to create unfold in ways he didn't anticipate, but you'll just have to read the novel to see what I'm talking about. It's a moment that is uplifting and soul crushing all at the same time, a perfect single line.

[Janis F · Rating 4 out of 5]

Science Fiction is not my normal go to read but I have to say I really enjoyed this story. Tom pulls you into his amazing sci fi world within the first few chapters. I immediately detested Bishop Emmanuel Gray, I wasn’t sure what Dr. Tier from the Department of Peace Enforcement was up to, I absolutely loved Salla Birdwing Vice Governor of the Outpost the minute I met her and military man Timberwolf I just couldn’t help but love this guy. He is the hero, man character and all around typical military man who wants to save the universe.

Tom introduces you to many alien species, many different planetary structures, as well as government, military and clergy personnel. He paints a picture so vivid you actually see it forming in your mind. I wondered a time or two if Tom has a little Arnock DNA in his blood. War between humans and aliens has been going on for over 100 years. Each group feels they were created in God’s image so of course war is imminent and aren’t most wars started because of Religion anyway.

This book is fast paced, action packed, a little bit violent in places but extremely well written. There were times when I said, “What the heck is going on?” But then by the next few chapters I was thinking, “Well there you go.” Tom did a very nice job of telling a complete story but leaving you wanting more in the end. There are many threads left in outer space and I’m truly hoping another book is on its way. I will definitely read other books by this author.

For my full review, check out my Book Review Blog: https://bookreviewsjanisf.wordpress.com

[Sadie Forsythe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad, but not a real winner for me either. Part of the reason is that it's plot-driven instead of character-driven. So, I never connected with any of the characters. But part of it is also simply that I felt like the plot was just leading from one fight scene to the next. I swear a good 80% of the book is descriptions of battles. I got bored with them. I liked Timberwolf well enough, as well as the side characters. But I felt the duo Villians diluted the focus of the story. The narrator did a fabulous job, however.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is good and has complexity and the characters seem well rounded. The story however will not have the legacy that Dune, Battlestar Galactica, or the Honor Harrington series does. Put those out of your head and just enjoy a good book with a plot. Unlike a lot of indie authors put out. I really appreciated some of the secondary characters better than the main character. I don't want to give plot details away so I will stop here.

[odedo1 Audio book worm. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure.



This book is ok, no no less written by the author Tom Julian which got some great stuff out there.

On of the best narrator of them all, C. J. McAllister narrated this one beautifully.

Recommending
If you want a simple enjoyment.

Oded Ostfeld.

[Melissa Jane · Rating 2 out of 5]

Confusing to start with, too many POV'S, not enough backstory and by the time it began to make sense, I just didn't care anymore. Not a horrible book, but I definitely had little liking for the religious baddies, the MC or even the aliens mind rending spiders. Read at your own risk.

[Keri Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Creative and very visual. Great action and characters. Looking forward to more work by this author.

[Audiobookreviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Timberwolf is an action-packed, edge of your seat audiobook. Timberwolf is an ex-top black ops agent who has faced many adversaries but nothing like the alien spider who “left a bit of himself behind” in Timberwolf’s mind. He volunteers for every dangerous and potentially suicidal mission available. So not only does he have to protect the universe from impending war, from a religious madman but he has to figure out how to rid himself of the spider.

Picture Tom Cruise or Matt Damon on superhuman steroids! Tom Julian, the author, captivates his audience through detailed and complex plot twists, fully developed character development and attention to detail. This is a military styled sci-fi action-adventure that one cannot put it down. Julian allows us to see just how damaged Timberwolf is but also how human he remains. One cannot help but become engaged in this book!

C.J. McAllister, the narrator, performs the audiobook superbly. He captures and projects the characters realistically. His narration is smooth and flawless. His deep resonating voice for Timberwolf is just how one pictures it would sound.
There were no issues with the audio quality or production of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and narration!

[Andy Turlington · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this Audio copy for free from the author/publisher. I am leaving this honest review freely, without consideration.

I’m still not really sure how I felt about this book as a whole. I received an audio recording of the book. I cannot say that I was a fan of the narrator. The base narration wasn’t bad, all of the character voices were fairly painful. I had a very difficult time immersing myself because of it. There were times when the dialog seemed “off”, but in all honesty, I’m not sure if it was the way it was written, or if it was the narration throwing everything off...

There were many times it felt like there must be other books that came before this one that explained certain things, but I’m pretty sure this is the first book in the series. Certain aspects of the religion, and world setting could probably be explained better, or perhaps it was just me being slow, I don’t know...

Ultimately, I finished the book, but can’t say that I loved it.

As a note, when I rate on a scale of 1 to 5, I use 4 as a good book that I enjoyed, and may well re-read in the future. I reserve 5 stars for incredible over the top achievements, which are far and few between...

[Dominic Adler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This SF adventure has it all - murderous space-evangelicals, alien xenocide, gadgets and genetically-modified monsters (which are a novel spin on the automated-killing machines that proliferate in this type of fiction). AI controlled arms industries hide on distant planets and the peacekeepers are ruthless tyrants with agendas of their own. Enter a war veteran called Timberwolf, a hard-bitten space commando with a spiderlike alien controlling his brain and you’ve got a recipe for an enjoyable bleak, grimdark look at a dystopian far future. This isn’t ‘hard’ science-fiction, in fact its quite the opposite. That isn’t a criticism, by the way, as I prefer fiction to trump science, allowing the author to take us on an outrageous, high-octane adventure that is shameless space opera with a gritty patina reminiscent of ‘Altered Carbon’. Recommended.

[Bill Bosley · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time reading this author, and I was not disappointed. It took me a little to get into the story, and then the story took me away. Filled with action, unanticipated plot twists, interesting scientific concepts, and a refreshing different angle in approaching interstellar conflict. I picked up on the marketing approach of being a "Spy-Fi", which took me awhile in the story to understand why as the character didn't seem to be a Jason Bourne/George Smiley/Jack Ryan type of agent - but rather from the aspect of a Blackbriar/Treadstone approach. Engaging, entertaining; an overall good read and a fresh new approach!

[Lonnie Armenta · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was given to me by my request, and this is my voluntary review.

I almost had to stop, for me I was so lost with all the aliens and characters in the first 2 hours.
But with that said, the action/ space battles were great.

The narrator did a good job with all the voices he had to do. It was a hard lisen but got into it more than halfway into the story.

[Wilhelm Muehlhausen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first novel by this author in their series.
There are plenty of well developed characters and multiple storylines to follow. It is definitely a page turner.
I can’t wait to start the second book and can only recommend this novel.

[Jay Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting book

This book has interesting characters as well as an intriguing storyline. With lots of intrigue and suspense. I hope this turns into a series

[Ari Ovalle · Rating 5 out of 5]

◆A complimentary ecopy was provided by the Author, in exchange for an honest review.◆

This story reminded me of Star Wars. There is no Force here, unless you count Timberwolf, he's a force all on his own. I say that because of the aliens and humans coexisting. You have this universe where we, humans, have made the journey out of our solar system into the unknown. We've fought interplanetary wars, all in the name of God. Whatever isn't in the likeness of His image, gets destroyed. However, there's a place, that holds not only dangerous, weapons, i.e. genetically modified creatures that make up an army, clones, there's treasures beyond the imagination. But you know...us humans are greedy. It kind of makes you laugh, The Clergy are all God Fearing but they really want that treasure. This place is called Highland. It also happens to be ran by an A.I., named Penny. She controls everything and anything that is Highland. The Clergy want Highland for its treasures, The Arnock want Highland so the humans don't get it. Timberwolf, who has been manipulated not only by The Arnock (Giant ant-like creatures, that can and will invade your mind.), but Highland, and his fellow species, the humans, Timberwolf needs answers and to get the one Arnock out of his head, for good. So much has happened to Timberwolf that you can see how he's struggled, to say the least, with his own humanity. So, the name of the game is who will take Highland? Of course, I refuse to answer that. However, I can tell you that this story is a highly skilled page turner, you're going to be engaged from start to finish. I know I left out a lot. But I do it so you can discover the awesomeness of the story, yourself. As for me, I believe the Author sure did have a story to tell and I loved this story hard & hopefully, you will too.

[Greg Doucette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Timberwolf, which I received from the author through an R2R program. I wasn't sure what to expect and when I glanced at the table of contents I thought "Oh my, what have I gotten myself into?" The ToC lists off about 120 chapters in a 362 page book, I was afraid the story line would be choppy. Boy, was I wrong! Timberwolf was extremely well written and the story flowed very smoothly despite its complexity and intertwining of character relationships. Where most war stories have good guys and bad guys, this book gives us various factions ... and none of them are particularly good guys, except maybe Salla.

This story was action packed, and quite unpredictable. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, Tom Julian twisted the plot again. If you enjoy a good scifi military plot with a good dose of sarcastic wit, a large cast of well developed characters (and species) ... this is a great one.

I also read Tom's prequel to Timberwolf called "Breacher". It's a short piece that explain some of the history between the main characters. I read it before reading Timberwolf which helped me understand the background at certain points in the story. I can't say if the experience would have been different if I had read it after the fact. Either way ... I highly recommend.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A complimentary e-copy was provided by the Author, in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars. I was originally interested in reading this book because of the description saying it was like Aliens meets . Now that I have read the book, I don't think that description was particularly accurate, but I got over that pretty quickly once I got into reading the book. To be honest, I had a little trouble getting into it initially, but that is way more because of me than because of the story or the writing: I don't actually like military scifi for the most part (which makes me a very silly person, I suppose for requesting to read a military scifi book, but hey) and I had summer-reading-at-the-library-with-the-teens brain, which translates to no attention span to speak of - but I still liked it. The book did seem to hit a lot of the military scifi "tropes," but it did it well and without hitting the high-cheese level because it was well-written and the characterizations and plot were solid.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading military scifi - and a few who typically don't.

[Ilona Fenton]

Not sure why this one's ended up on my DNF shelf but I gave it more than my usual 50 pages or three chapters to keep my interest and it failed.