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Dreamscape Warriors #1
Price of Vengeance
"Liam! What have you done?" Marcus demanded. "You know our teachings on revenge."
Suddenly, irrationally angry, Liam straightened. "How can you defend him after what he did? To you, to Mom, to my birth parents, to everyone we cared about?"
With a howl of despair and emotional agony, Liam dashed forward, through the shade of his father, blindly running into the sewers.
What is the Price of Vengeance? One could understand why Liam is angry. Orphaned at the age of two by a group of giant carnivorous insects called the chitin, he was adopted by High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, and raised with their older son, Randolf, in New Olympia, the last remaining city on the planet Etrusci.
As an adult, Liam becomes a soldier. After being cut off from the city, he finds that there is an alien intelligence behind the chitin. To defeat it, he must discover who he is and how to use his powers. When Liam discovers that a traitor responsible for his birth parents' deaths has also murdered his beloved foster parents, he might find that the price he has to pay in his quest for vengeance will prove to be an even more unbeatable foe.
Suddenly, irrationally angry, Liam straightened. "How can you defend him after what he did? To you, to Mom, to my birth parents, to everyone we cared about?"
With a howl of despair and emotional agony, Liam dashed forward, through the shade of his father, blindly running into the sewers.
What is the Price of Vengeance? One could understand why Liam is angry. Orphaned at the age of two by a group of giant carnivorous insects called the chitin, he was adopted by High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, and raised with their older son, Randolf, in New Olympia, the last remaining city on the planet Etrusci.
As an adult, Liam becomes a soldier. After being cut off from the city, he finds that there is an alien intelligence behind the chitin. To defeat it, he must discover who he is and how to use his powers. When Liam discovers that a traitor responsible for his birth parents' deaths has also murdered his beloved foster parents, he might find that the price he has to pay in his quest for vengeance will prove to be an even more unbeatable foe.
- GenresScience Fiction
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
7 people are currently reading
2664 people want to read
About the author
Kurt D. Springs
4 books90 followersKurt D. Springs is presently an adjunct professor teaching anthropology, archaeology, and geography in New Hampshire. He holds a PhD. in anthropology from the State University of New York at Buffalo, as well as a Master of Literature in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and a Master of Liberal Arts in anthropology and archaeology from the Harvard University Extension School. His main area of interest is megalithic landscapes in prehistoric Ireland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 6, 2016
An interesting, well written story! Though I don’t generally read science fiction, I was instantly pulled in by the author’s voice and vivid descriptions, which are consistent throughout the book. Orphaned after witnessing the death of his parents, hero Liam is adopted by the High Councilor Marcus and his wife, who raise him along with their biological son, Randolph. Year later, Liam and Randolph become members of the colony's military. The chitin, who killed Liam's parents, are attacking once again, and Liam realizes that the insects are being driven by an alien intelligence. To defeat them, he must learn how to use his powers.
Price of Vengeance is full of adventure and suspense. It’s set in a futuristic time in which the human race has been genetically modified and to have super powers. The book is true to its title. Liam has been greatly affected by his parents’ death and his inner battle for revenge, and his overcoming that battle, shapes him to become the hero he does.
Springs strikes an excellent balance between world creation and character development. He paints a vivid picture, while simultaneously developing and executing a strong plot. This book was hard to put down!
Kurt D. Springs is an author to keep an eye on! I can’t wait to read Promise of Mercy!
Price of Vengeance is full of adventure and suspense. It’s set in a futuristic time in which the human race has been genetically modified and to have super powers. The book is true to its title. Liam has been greatly affected by his parents’ death and his inner battle for revenge, and his overcoming that battle, shapes him to become the hero he does.
Springs strikes an excellent balance between world creation and character development. He paints a vivid picture, while simultaneously developing and executing a strong plot. This book was hard to put down!
Kurt D. Springs is an author to keep an eye on! I can’t wait to read Promise of Mercy!
June 26, 2015
When I first picked up this book to read it I was unsure about it. I like sci-fi/fantasy type books but the prospect of killer bugs/chitin being the enemy was a little far fetched for me. My first thought after starting to read this book was Starship Troopers featuring Casper Van Dien. Yet, this book was so much better than this movie. Liam exceeds Casper's performance and is a great leader. I also liked Liam's older brother, Randolf. They knew the true meaning of blood is thicker than water.
This book had a really good storyline with strong characters and lots of action to keep it moving at a steady pace. I was flying through the book. Mr. Springs has a good talent for storytelling. Instantly I was transported to this world as if I was one of the residents experiencing everything that was happening. I can't wait to read book two.
This book had a really good storyline with strong characters and lots of action to keep it moving at a steady pace. I was flying through the book. Mr. Springs has a good talent for storytelling. Instantly I was transported to this world as if I was one of the residents experiencing everything that was happening. I can't wait to read book two.
June 1, 2017
I don’t really read science fiction/fantasy novels anymore but this one took me on an unforgettable ride that I really enjoyed. From the cover to the opening pages, Price of Vengeance grabs the reader and takes them on a wild ride. Fasten your seat belts for this book. I did. I loved all the original characters the author created in this young adult, science fiction, fantasy novel for all ages.
The book has a lot going for it. Plenty of action and adventure, which promises the reader won’t get bored. I didn’t. Characters one can love and cheer on. It also had a theme running through it: acceptance. The hero, Liam is a bit different because he’s adopted, but when push comes to shove he isn’t really different at all. He wasn’t born a hero, but none really are, are they? I could see this book as a cool video game. I could see this as a film somewhere up there with Star Wars, Starship Troopers and Dune and even The Last Starfighter. There is always a Price of Vengeance. I look forward to reading more books from author Kurt Springs.
The book has a lot going for it. Plenty of action and adventure, which promises the reader won’t get bored. I didn’t. Characters one can love and cheer on. It also had a theme running through it: acceptance. The hero, Liam is a bit different because he’s adopted, but when push comes to shove he isn’t really different at all. He wasn’t born a hero, but none really are, are they? I could see this book as a cool video game. I could see this as a film somewhere up there with Star Wars, Starship Troopers and Dune and even The Last Starfighter. There is always a Price of Vengeance. I look forward to reading more books from author Kurt Springs.
June 1, 2014
For all fans of Star Wars, War off the World, etc., this book is for you! Orphaned at age two - after witnessing the horrifying death of his parents - Liam was given a home with High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia. Along with Randolf - their biological son - they raised him as their own son. Now as grown men, both sons were members of the colony's military. Once again the same giant, carnivorous insects who savagely killed Liam's biological parents, were again attacking in huge swarms. Liam was smaller than most of the others but as a Finnian, he was more agile and able to move much more quickly. Although very close as brothers, Randolf was three years older and higher in rank so they did not serve together.
The majority of the story is the ensuing battle between the two forces for the survival if the last city remaining on the planet, Etrusci. The people were being massacred by the hideous creatures, who attacked in swarms. The time period was centuries into the future. Survival of the planet's inhabitants seemed hopeless. They would have to succumb to a heartless individual.
The action and suspense was constant. There were surprising, plus, predictable twists. There were a few typographical errors but essentially, the writing was very well done.
Although too dark for my liking, the book cover is eye-catching and the title is a good "fit". The characters and creatures were well defined and real. The background scenes and actions
were painfully described and easily pictured. The attempts at limited romance were awkwardly depicted.
Although a well-written, well thought out tale, it was way too violent for my recommendations -as so many stories are, this day and age. This is recommended for ages 13 - up because of violence.
My rating of this book, through my review offers a Four Stars eating.
*This book was generously sent to me by the author for an honest review, of which I have given.
The majority of the story is the ensuing battle between the two forces for the survival if the last city remaining on the planet, Etrusci. The people were being massacred by the hideous creatures, who attacked in swarms. The time period was centuries into the future. Survival of the planet's inhabitants seemed hopeless. They would have to succumb to a heartless individual.
The action and suspense was constant. There were surprising, plus, predictable twists. There were a few typographical errors but essentially, the writing was very well done.
Although too dark for my liking, the book cover is eye-catching and the title is a good "fit". The characters and creatures were well defined and real. The background scenes and actions
were painfully described and easily pictured. The attempts at limited romance were awkwardly depicted.
Although a well-written, well thought out tale, it was way too violent for my recommendations -as so many stories are, this day and age. This is recommended for ages 13 - up because of violence.
My rating of this book, through my review offers a Four Stars eating.
*This book was generously sent to me by the author for an honest review, of which I have given.
July 29, 2024
Wow, I was lost in this! It was like stepping out of the real world, and right into the set of Divergent, but with its own unique storyline. All of the characters were so lovable, the flow and pace were great, and it had the perfect amount of action to keep you on your toes and invested. I look forward to reading more!
March 18, 2024
ARC Copy...I quite liked it! A decently crafted space opera with military sci-fi elements. I did like through out the narrative, Liam's mentality with the aliens and betrayal is present and the ending felt romantic-warm satisfying after all he's been through.
October 4, 2014
Amazing! Wild action and carefully crafted characters! Filmmakers, take notice!
*Roddenberry would have.
........................................................
The Price of Vengeance is a stroke of exceptional originality. Author, Kurt Spring, is a fabulous storyteller. His imagination is akin to very few authors. Every aspect of his gift pulls you in. You become part of the story with Kurt's attention to detail and graphic characters.
The Price of Vengeance is a Young Adult, Paranormal, Military-Science Fiction novel. It can be read by, or to, all age groups.
Kurt's book clearly has a flavor and rhythm all it's own. Not to be compared to Star Wars, many reviewers are correct in labeling this novel with the same genre as George Lucas's loved prize.
The main character, Liam, is a highly skilled soldier with genetics to back him up. He struggles to stay alive, eliminate his enemy, and fulfill his calling. "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." (William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night - Act II, Scene V.)
Liam is, and will become, all three.
In the beginning, three of earth's geneticists worked secretly in outer-space. Their work was to create a new race of super soldiers, intended for earth to win all battles. Unintended traits found their way into the genetically tampered: the ability to dream walk, step out of time, and communicate telepathically.
High adventure awaits with young Liam. I hope that you'll love him, too.
Eighteen years have gone by without so much as one sighting of the Chitin. Now, Chitin have returned. These maniacal, giant bugs are controlled by one, black-scaled humanoid, Azurius. Liam fears for his homeland, his adoptive parents, his brother, and fellow soldiers. Their military has been betrayed, driven back, and cut off from their major weapons stores.
Liam is wounded and knocked out. While Liam is in the dreamscape, he meets his enemy, that black-scaled humanoid, who's a redoubtable and narcissistic adversary.
Azurius smiles. He's amazed at how advanced the boy's abilities are, and knows that he needs Liam for more than one reason. Walking toward Liam, Azurius greats him with a friendly smile, radiating warmth, like an old friend. Liam is cautious, and assumes a strong, ready-to-strike stance.
Azurius generously compliments Liam on his intelligence and prowess in the battle arena. He speaks to Liam about his unique abilities which link the two of them, yet set them apart from the rest.
With the wave of his hand, Azurius makes light of the battle he's cultivated, even speaking of his programmed killer Chitin, as if they were mere mosquitoes buzzing overhead.
He praises himself as a great leader who wants nothing more than to spare as many lives as possible. He shares his vision of a perfect universe with Liam at his side. Arms wide with enthusiasm, he gestures to Liam at becoming his second in command. Azurius knows he has to replace his weak link, his associate, Licinious.
Liam has now been formally offered paradise by his sworn enemy. He trusts that Liam will enjoy the new power by changing sides and ruling with him. Liam regains his defensive stance and refuses!
Azurius is more than disappointed. The boy is tougher than he anticipated. He now needs an alternate plan to push the opposition back and to sway Liam to his side. Azurius wonders if Liam has figured out that his Chitin were to blame for the death of his biological mother and father? Does he know that Licinious killed his adoptive parents? Nevertheless, he must draw Liam in to his long awaited plan.
The reader sees the characters and the intensity of each battle. As you read, you'll feel each character's emotions and experience their pain. Kurt's story is vivid and full of color.
Visit Kurt's imagination through, The Price of Vengeance. This reviewer is waiting impatiently for his next installment in the Dreamscape Warriors Series.
*The Price of Vengeance has received a Customer Rating of 4.6 out of 5 Stars.
*Publication Date: April 22, 2014, by Tate Publishing. All rights reserved.
*ASIN: B00J4P7QOA
*This reviewer purchased, The Price of Vengeance, through Amazon as a Kindle Edition.
...........................
email: kurtsprings@me.com
Facebook.com/Price.of.Vengeance
Goodreads:http//:goodreads/author/show/7824275.Kurt_D_Springs
Google+: Kurt D. Springs
LinkedIn: Kurt D. Springs
Reviewer: At Invincible Love of Reading thestoryreadingapeblog.com
Tate Publishing: Price of Vengeance by Kurt D. Springs | ISBN # 978-1-62994-458-6 ...
Twitter: @kurtsprings1
Website: http//:www.kurtsprings.com
*Roddenberry would have.
........................................................
The Price of Vengeance is a stroke of exceptional originality. Author, Kurt Spring, is a fabulous storyteller. His imagination is akin to very few authors. Every aspect of his gift pulls you in. You become part of the story with Kurt's attention to detail and graphic characters.
The Price of Vengeance is a Young Adult, Paranormal, Military-Science Fiction novel. It can be read by, or to, all age groups.
Kurt's book clearly has a flavor and rhythm all it's own. Not to be compared to Star Wars, many reviewers are correct in labeling this novel with the same genre as George Lucas's loved prize.
The main character, Liam, is a highly skilled soldier with genetics to back him up. He struggles to stay alive, eliminate his enemy, and fulfill his calling. "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." (William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night - Act II, Scene V.)
Liam is, and will become, all three.
In the beginning, three of earth's geneticists worked secretly in outer-space. Their work was to create a new race of super soldiers, intended for earth to win all battles. Unintended traits found their way into the genetically tampered: the ability to dream walk, step out of time, and communicate telepathically.
High adventure awaits with young Liam. I hope that you'll love him, too.
Eighteen years have gone by without so much as one sighting of the Chitin. Now, Chitin have returned. These maniacal, giant bugs are controlled by one, black-scaled humanoid, Azurius. Liam fears for his homeland, his adoptive parents, his brother, and fellow soldiers. Their military has been betrayed, driven back, and cut off from their major weapons stores.
Liam is wounded and knocked out. While Liam is in the dreamscape, he meets his enemy, that black-scaled humanoid, who's a redoubtable and narcissistic adversary.
Azurius smiles. He's amazed at how advanced the boy's abilities are, and knows that he needs Liam for more than one reason. Walking toward Liam, Azurius greats him with a friendly smile, radiating warmth, like an old friend. Liam is cautious, and assumes a strong, ready-to-strike stance.
Azurius generously compliments Liam on his intelligence and prowess in the battle arena. He speaks to Liam about his unique abilities which link the two of them, yet set them apart from the rest.
With the wave of his hand, Azurius makes light of the battle he's cultivated, even speaking of his programmed killer Chitin, as if they were mere mosquitoes buzzing overhead.
He praises himself as a great leader who wants nothing more than to spare as many lives as possible. He shares his vision of a perfect universe with Liam at his side. Arms wide with enthusiasm, he gestures to Liam at becoming his second in command. Azurius knows he has to replace his weak link, his associate, Licinious.
Liam has now been formally offered paradise by his sworn enemy. He trusts that Liam will enjoy the new power by changing sides and ruling with him. Liam regains his defensive stance and refuses!
Azurius is more than disappointed. The boy is tougher than he anticipated. He now needs an alternate plan to push the opposition back and to sway Liam to his side. Azurius wonders if Liam has figured out that his Chitin were to blame for the death of his biological mother and father? Does he know that Licinious killed his adoptive parents? Nevertheless, he must draw Liam in to his long awaited plan.
The reader sees the characters and the intensity of each battle. As you read, you'll feel each character's emotions and experience their pain. Kurt's story is vivid and full of color.
Visit Kurt's imagination through, The Price of Vengeance. This reviewer is waiting impatiently for his next installment in the Dreamscape Warriors Series.
*The Price of Vengeance has received a Customer Rating of 4.6 out of 5 Stars.
*Publication Date: April 22, 2014, by Tate Publishing. All rights reserved.
*ASIN: B00J4P7QOA
*This reviewer purchased, The Price of Vengeance, through Amazon as a Kindle Edition.
...........................
email: kurtsprings@me.com
Facebook.com/Price.of.Vengeance
Goodreads:http//:goodreads/author/show/7824275.Kurt_D_Springs
Google+: Kurt D. Springs
LinkedIn: Kurt D. Springs
Reviewer: At Invincible Love of Reading thestoryreadingapeblog.com
Tate Publishing: Price of Vengeance by Kurt D. Springs | ISBN # 978-1-62994-458-6 ...
Twitter: @kurtsprings1
Website: http//:www.kurtsprings.com
July 23, 2014
Price of Vengeance is filled with surprises. Like an arch-enemy who’s a Shakespeare buff. In his battle to control the city of New Olympia, while deadly plasma blades clash furiously, evil Azurius is not beyond quoting a line or two from Macbeth or Romeo and Juliet to the book’s hero, Liam. In fact, Azurius’ final words are, “People who know Shakespeare are worth knowing.”
Like Satan in the desert with Jesus, Azurius offers Liam the temptation of power; the power to rule beside him as he executes plans for an expanding realm that goes well beyond the planet they stand on. But if Liam does not accept Azurius’ offer his beloved adopted brother and friends, along with what remains of his adopted race, will be destroyed by Azurius’ minions, hoards of giant insects called chitins.
Kurt Springs has done a difficult thing. He has created a dangerous, power-hungry villain who is, on some levels, likable. At the same time Liam, his hero, is capable of cruelty and torture, leaving behind the man who betrayed his birth and adopted family to hang, mortally wounded, by his shoulder, dying in excruciating pain. This brutality is a deep shock to Liam and it’s a deed he’s haunted by, along with other deaths during battles of people close to him that he blames himself for. Yet as he��s told, and it’s advice that has an especially profound ring for him, The burden will always be with him but time will make it lighter. The feat Kurt Springs has mastered is showing us true heroes and villains who are a mixture of good and bad—who have diverse dimensions of being, and shades of grey—who are, in short, like you and me. This is one of the things that makes Price of Vengeance such a riveting read.
The result is a book with characters you care about, with complex feelings and motives and quirks. The same Liam who leaves the traitor to die a slow death can be found totaling up the damage he inadvertently causes to his friends’ stores and bars in which he takes shelter so he can reimburse them once the war with the chitins is over.
At the same time, Price of Vengeance is a classic struggle between good and evil. Liam lives on a planet forced to exist in reduced means and spaces while others in the galaxy are determined to break through the planet’s force field to free them. Standing in their way is Azurius, who is just as determined to conquer New Olympia, exploit it and expand his empire beyond all bounds. This is a satisfying book, with futuristic weaponry, the hero and anti-hero’s ability to ‘step out of time’ while in a trance state, telekinesis, astral projection and command over matter—all mastered by Azurius but especially by Liam—which, along with a certain grudging respect and fascination—is the key reason Azurius wants Liam riding shotgun as he conquers the cosmos.
Then there is the sole Creator, a female, and her priestesses, who the people of New Olympia venerate. The Creator is the light that leads Liam, while one of her priestesses within The Holy Temple, Celenia, embodies the love he hopes to have as his own. Other creatures and characters make the Price of Vengeance even more delightful, including the wise and wonderful Swift Hunter, a gentle, giant creature most readers would want as a personal friend.
Kurt Springs has a seemingly endless wealth of vivid imagery drawn in few words, dialogue that rings true, pacing that reflects the action of the story and characters you won’t soon forget. Let’s hope his next book isn’t far off.
Like Satan in the desert with Jesus, Azurius offers Liam the temptation of power; the power to rule beside him as he executes plans for an expanding realm that goes well beyond the planet they stand on. But if Liam does not accept Azurius’ offer his beloved adopted brother and friends, along with what remains of his adopted race, will be destroyed by Azurius’ minions, hoards of giant insects called chitins.
Kurt Springs has done a difficult thing. He has created a dangerous, power-hungry villain who is, on some levels, likable. At the same time Liam, his hero, is capable of cruelty and torture, leaving behind the man who betrayed his birth and adopted family to hang, mortally wounded, by his shoulder, dying in excruciating pain. This brutality is a deep shock to Liam and it’s a deed he’s haunted by, along with other deaths during battles of people close to him that he blames himself for. Yet as he��s told, and it’s advice that has an especially profound ring for him, The burden will always be with him but time will make it lighter. The feat Kurt Springs has mastered is showing us true heroes and villains who are a mixture of good and bad—who have diverse dimensions of being, and shades of grey—who are, in short, like you and me. This is one of the things that makes Price of Vengeance such a riveting read.
The result is a book with characters you care about, with complex feelings and motives and quirks. The same Liam who leaves the traitor to die a slow death can be found totaling up the damage he inadvertently causes to his friends’ stores and bars in which he takes shelter so he can reimburse them once the war with the chitins is over.
At the same time, Price of Vengeance is a classic struggle between good and evil. Liam lives on a planet forced to exist in reduced means and spaces while others in the galaxy are determined to break through the planet’s force field to free them. Standing in their way is Azurius, who is just as determined to conquer New Olympia, exploit it and expand his empire beyond all bounds. This is a satisfying book, with futuristic weaponry, the hero and anti-hero’s ability to ‘step out of time’ while in a trance state, telekinesis, astral projection and command over matter—all mastered by Azurius but especially by Liam—which, along with a certain grudging respect and fascination—is the key reason Azurius wants Liam riding shotgun as he conquers the cosmos.
Then there is the sole Creator, a female, and her priestesses, who the people of New Olympia venerate. The Creator is the light that leads Liam, while one of her priestesses within The Holy Temple, Celenia, embodies the love he hopes to have as his own. Other creatures and characters make the Price of Vengeance even more delightful, including the wise and wonderful Swift Hunter, a gentle, giant creature most readers would want as a personal friend.
Kurt Springs has a seemingly endless wealth of vivid imagery drawn in few words, dialogue that rings true, pacing that reflects the action of the story and characters you won’t soon forget. Let’s hope his next book isn’t far off.
July 1, 2015
Liam is a stranger in a strange land, he was born to a family of farmstead workers. At the age of two the farmstead he lived in was destroyed by a race of giant bug like creatures called the chitin. He was adopted by the by Marcus the High Councilor of New Olympia and his wife Lidia. Liam lived for 20 years in New Olympia on the planet of Etrusci under the watchful eye of his brother Randolf. As an adult Liam and his brother are part of the military defending Etrusci against the chitin.
Liam is well liked in New Olympia but he doesn’t feel like he belongs and no one remains from his birth family. Little does he know that a full-fledged war is about to break out between the chitin and the people of New Olympia. Liam will soon find out that there is a higher intelligence left over from an old galactic civil war controlling the chitin.This intelligence may also be responsible for destroying his people. Liam must learn who he truly is and use his powers to get vengeance on the traitor who is trying to take over New Olympia.
Price of Vengeance by Kurt D. Springs is a fast paced Science Fiction adventure which includes genetically manipulated life forms, strange creatures that communicate telepathically and a way to use dreams to communicate and travel. This is the part I enjoyed the most of this book. Kurt has done a great job of creating a new world that mirrors our own in several ways but still feels different. Though it’s on another planet, the families are like our own and someone from another race feels like an outcast even though the people don’t treat him that way. Also the way the people follow a certain religion but a few people seem to interpret it differently also mirrors how people view religion in our society.
My favorite part of the book was learning about the people’s telepathic abilities and the whole concept of dream walking. I also liked the concept of having to believe in what you’re doing in the dream for it to have an effect. At one point one of the characters compares dream walking to astral projection which is something people believe in our world. The book also gets into genetic manipulation which leads to people using their dreams and telepathy.
Price Of Vengeance has created a world with a back story that I loved hearing about. My only problem with the book was that in the beginning it jumps right into the action and you know very little about the world they are on and its inhabitants. For a bit I was wondering if I might have missed a book that set up the action in this story. Eventually the action slows down and we get to learn about the history of Etrusci.
If I was going to compare this book to any Science Fiction movies it would be Starship Troopers and Star Wars. This book does a great job of describing battles and how weapons work on the planet Etrusci. There are also some great characters in the story and I liked hearing about their belief system. There is a great message in this book about how seeking vengeance can twist you as a person and turn you into someone who you don’t want to be. Price Of Vengeance is one exciting read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Liam is well liked in New Olympia but he doesn’t feel like he belongs and no one remains from his birth family. Little does he know that a full-fledged war is about to break out between the chitin and the people of New Olympia. Liam will soon find out that there is a higher intelligence left over from an old galactic civil war controlling the chitin.This intelligence may also be responsible for destroying his people. Liam must learn who he truly is and use his powers to get vengeance on the traitor who is trying to take over New Olympia.
Price of Vengeance by Kurt D. Springs is a fast paced Science Fiction adventure which includes genetically manipulated life forms, strange creatures that communicate telepathically and a way to use dreams to communicate and travel. This is the part I enjoyed the most of this book. Kurt has done a great job of creating a new world that mirrors our own in several ways but still feels different. Though it’s on another planet, the families are like our own and someone from another race feels like an outcast even though the people don’t treat him that way. Also the way the people follow a certain religion but a few people seem to interpret it differently also mirrors how people view religion in our society.
My favorite part of the book was learning about the people’s telepathic abilities and the whole concept of dream walking. I also liked the concept of having to believe in what you’re doing in the dream for it to have an effect. At one point one of the characters compares dream walking to astral projection which is something people believe in our world. The book also gets into genetic manipulation which leads to people using their dreams and telepathy.
Price Of Vengeance has created a world with a back story that I loved hearing about. My only problem with the book was that in the beginning it jumps right into the action and you know very little about the world they are on and its inhabitants. For a bit I was wondering if I might have missed a book that set up the action in this story. Eventually the action slows down and we get to learn about the history of Etrusci.
If I was going to compare this book to any Science Fiction movies it would be Starship Troopers and Star Wars. This book does a great job of describing battles and how weapons work on the planet Etrusci. There are also some great characters in the story and I liked hearing about their belief system. There is a great message in this book about how seeking vengeance can twist you as a person and turn you into someone who you don’t want to be. Price Of Vengeance is one exciting read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 30, 2015
About the Book:
"Liam! What have you done?" Marcus demanded. "You know our teachings on revenge."
Suddenly, irrationally angry, Liam straightened. "How can you defend him after what he did? To you, to Mom, to my birth parents, to everyone we cared about?"
With a howl of despair and emotional agony, Liam dashed forward, through the shade of his father, blindly running into the sewers.
What is the Price of Vengeance? One could understand why Liam is angry. Orphaned at the age of two by a group of giant carnivorous insects called the chitin, he was adopted by High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, and raised with their older son, Randolf, in New Olympia, the last remaining city on the planet Etrusci.
As an adult, Liam becomes a soldier. After being cut off from the city, he finds that there is an alien intelligence behind the chitin. To defeat it, he must discover who he is and how to use his powers. When Liam discovers that a traitor responsible for his birth parents' deaths has also murdered his beloved foster parents, he might find that the price he has to pay in his quest for vengeance will prove to be an even more unbeatable foe.
Liam lost his parents to the Chitin (giant carnivorous insects) when he was only two. Being adopted by the High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, should have put his young mind at ease. But it didn't, each night he's met with the terrors of the very night his parents died. Nothing can make the nightmares disappear, nothing can stop the hatred building up in him. Receiving a brother through the whole ordeal helped Liam through the rough times, without Randolf, he would have turned into a complete hermit.
Becoming a solider, Liam and Randolf do their best to protect their love ones. But little do they know, that someone is working behind the scenes, becoming a traitor to New Olympia. Liam learns of this after being injured greatly. With little time to waste, Liam races back home, only to find his foster parents dead. As the anger builds up, Liam believes vengeance is the only rightful answer.
Price Of Vengeance is full of action and adventure. I really like this book. It had a real futuristic appeal to it and love stuff like that! I can’t wait to read Promise Of Mercy! It is sure to be just an amazing read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
"Liam! What have you done?" Marcus demanded. "You know our teachings on revenge."
Suddenly, irrationally angry, Liam straightened. "How can you defend him after what he did? To you, to Mom, to my birth parents, to everyone we cared about?"
With a howl of despair and emotional agony, Liam dashed forward, through the shade of his father, blindly running into the sewers.
What is the Price of Vengeance? One could understand why Liam is angry. Orphaned at the age of two by a group of giant carnivorous insects called the chitin, he was adopted by High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, and raised with their older son, Randolf, in New Olympia, the last remaining city on the planet Etrusci.
As an adult, Liam becomes a soldier. After being cut off from the city, he finds that there is an alien intelligence behind the chitin. To defeat it, he must discover who he is and how to use his powers. When Liam discovers that a traitor responsible for his birth parents' deaths has also murdered his beloved foster parents, he might find that the price he has to pay in his quest for vengeance will prove to be an even more unbeatable foe.
Liam lost his parents to the Chitin (giant carnivorous insects) when he was only two. Being adopted by the High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, should have put his young mind at ease. But it didn't, each night he's met with the terrors of the very night his parents died. Nothing can make the nightmares disappear, nothing can stop the hatred building up in him. Receiving a brother through the whole ordeal helped Liam through the rough times, without Randolf, he would have turned into a complete hermit.
Becoming a solider, Liam and Randolf do their best to protect their love ones. But little do they know, that someone is working behind the scenes, becoming a traitor to New Olympia. Liam learns of this after being injured greatly. With little time to waste, Liam races back home, only to find his foster parents dead. As the anger builds up, Liam believes vengeance is the only rightful answer.
Price Of Vengeance is full of action and adventure. I really like this book. It had a real futuristic appeal to it and love stuff like that! I can’t wait to read Promise Of Mercy! It is sure to be just an amazing read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Read
April 1, 2014I am not really reviewing it. It would seem too much like tooting my own horn.
It was a fun book to write and allowed me to look into the shadows of my own soul. I was actually living in Ireland when the idea for this story came to me. I was months away from having to return home, after I finished my Master of Literature in archaeology at NUI Galway. The idea for a young soldier who is cut off from a city during a battle with monsters. He isn't native to the city, and was taken in as an orphan. I didn't actually start writing things down until I got to Buffalo, just before starting my PhD. I began putting ideas on paper and did a basic outline. This was in 2004. Then I had six crazy years of trying to survive graduate school. Finally, in 2010, I walked across the stage and received a doctor of philosophy in anthropology with my focus on archaeology. This is two years after the economy tanked. Jobs for professors who specialize in European prehistory were few and far between. I picked up the basic outline material and started to flesh it out.
Should it be science fiction of fantasy? What should the protagonists name be. What's his background? What about his adoptive people. After the first draft was done, I went back and realized I need more conversation than just dreamwalking. So I added scenes with the bear-lizard, Swift Hunter, and gave Liam two companions later in the story.
Nothing is ever wasted. I did finally become an adjunct professor. However, the real treasure from my education is the creation of new cultures on new worlds. I hope that if you pick up Price of Vengeance, you will be able to lose yourself in it for a time on a world so similar and so different.
The sequels are coming, if I ever get the commas right. The next one should be Promise of Mercy, where I introduce Liam's offspring, especially his identical triplet daughters (poor guy). Here we will get deeper into the Rebelion.
Please comment if you enjoyed it. Constructive critiques are, of course, welcome.
It was a fun book to write and allowed me to look into the shadows of my own soul. I was actually living in Ireland when the idea for this story came to me. I was months away from having to return home, after I finished my Master of Literature in archaeology at NUI Galway. The idea for a young soldier who is cut off from a city during a battle with monsters. He isn't native to the city, and was taken in as an orphan. I didn't actually start writing things down until I got to Buffalo, just before starting my PhD. I began putting ideas on paper and did a basic outline. This was in 2004. Then I had six crazy years of trying to survive graduate school. Finally, in 2010, I walked across the stage and received a doctor of philosophy in anthropology with my focus on archaeology. This is two years after the economy tanked. Jobs for professors who specialize in European prehistory were few and far between. I picked up the basic outline material and started to flesh it out.
Should it be science fiction of fantasy? What should the protagonists name be. What's his background? What about his adoptive people. After the first draft was done, I went back and realized I need more conversation than just dreamwalking. So I added scenes with the bear-lizard, Swift Hunter, and gave Liam two companions later in the story.
Nothing is ever wasted. I did finally become an adjunct professor. However, the real treasure from my education is the creation of new cultures on new worlds. I hope that if you pick up Price of Vengeance, you will be able to lose yourself in it for a time on a world so similar and so different.
The sequels are coming, if I ever get the commas right. The next one should be Promise of Mercy, where I introduce Liam's offspring, especially his identical triplet daughters (poor guy). Here we will get deeper into the Rebelion.
Please comment if you enjoyed it. Constructive critiques are, of course, welcome.
June 28, 2015
The first installment of author Kurt D. Springs’ Dreamscape Warriors series opens with sundry publisher information, such as the basis of their creed upon Psalm 68:11, although the story itself doesn’t have much religious overtone. A map of the primary setting, New Olympia, the novel also provides, alongside the dedication to the memory of the writer’s high school teacher, Stanley M. Gorski. The prologue that follows focuses on a married couple, Lidia and Marcus, who have a seven-year-old son named Randolf, and come to adopt the two-and-a-half-year-old Liam when his parents Seámus and Deidre wind up dead, the initial chapter ending with the philosophical creed that democracies fall when one man forces others to do what he thinks right.
The main chapters occur a score after the prologue, where Liam is grown-up and he and other soldiers prepare for transport to outposts, which his adopted brother Randolf says are quiet. A special Festival is forthcoming, with the backstory revealed that Liam is scion of farmstead folk, and reference to William Shakespeare’s play Henry V, which is basically the sole reference to other literature within the story. Constituting a significant portion of the story is when characters “dreakwalk,” which the novel denotes with indentation of text, a feature common among the book’s telepathic characters.
The main antagonist is a man named Licinious, and Liam himself finds the companionship of a “bear-lizard” named Swift Hunter, who communicates with his human friend telepathically. Also fulfilling an antagonistic role is a creeping evil known as “chitin,” which never really reveals concrete description as far as this reviewer saw within the text, with quite a few parts that drove him to go back and reread portions, and things such as hyperlinks between Irish Gaelic terms that occur primarily towards the end and their English equivalents would have been welcome. Even so, this is a good first entry of the author’s franchise, and is recommended reading.
The main chapters occur a score after the prologue, where Liam is grown-up and he and other soldiers prepare for transport to outposts, which his adopted brother Randolf says are quiet. A special Festival is forthcoming, with the backstory revealed that Liam is scion of farmstead folk, and reference to William Shakespeare’s play Henry V, which is basically the sole reference to other literature within the story. Constituting a significant portion of the story is when characters “dreakwalk,” which the novel denotes with indentation of text, a feature common among the book’s telepathic characters.
The main antagonist is a man named Licinious, and Liam himself finds the companionship of a “bear-lizard” named Swift Hunter, who communicates with his human friend telepathically. Also fulfilling an antagonistic role is a creeping evil known as “chitin,” which never really reveals concrete description as far as this reviewer saw within the text, with quite a few parts that drove him to go back and reread portions, and things such as hyperlinks between Irish Gaelic terms that occur primarily towards the end and their English equivalents would have been welcome. Even so, this is a good first entry of the author’s franchise, and is recommended reading.
August 9, 2015
Total sci-fi, action, adventure. It had a very “Ender’s Game” vibe to me… with the one man/boy best equipped to fight the enemy… and the enemy armies consisting of huge insect like hive-mind creatures. The story building was very detailed, with a lot of history. I liked that that background history wasn’t unloaded on the reader all at once, but unfolded as Liam and Randolf learned the past events. I also enjoyed that, while the story was FULL of fight scenes and action, there were enough quieter, thoughtful scenes interspersed. Heartfelt, thoughtful talks, between many of the characters.
While I loved Liam’s character (and how much he grew through the story) I have to say a couple of supporting characters stole the show for me. Swift-Hunter, a bear-lizard who communicates telepathically, brought a sweet and humorous note to the story that really helped balance some of the stress and violence. While he was every bit of the strong and capable warrior you would assume a “bear-lizard” sounds… his compassion and loyalty was pleasantly unexpected. Jarek had a similar feel. As he trained Liam in the Dreamscape… he still had a quality that kept things light. His sense of humor had me laughing a couple of times. The majority of the book was focused on battles and violence… so the touches of humor, love, and lightness were nicely placed.
While the book was full of action and adventure and all things sci-fi… it was clear to me that the story also had a theme of acceptance running through it. Acceptance of things not at face value. Breaking of stereotypes and prejudice. Liam was a Finnian adopted into an Etrucian society. He was shorter, and darker, and just… different. Society wasn’t accepting of him and so he kept himself separated… even though those that DID get to know him loved him and respected him. Swift-Hunter was one of a species that was feared simply from afar because of their appearance. In reality he was trustworthy, and loyal, and compassionate (although still something to be fear if crossed). Things are not always as they seem.
While I loved Liam’s character (and how much he grew through the story) I have to say a couple of supporting characters stole the show for me. Swift-Hunter, a bear-lizard who communicates telepathically, brought a sweet and humorous note to the story that really helped balance some of the stress and violence. While he was every bit of the strong and capable warrior you would assume a “bear-lizard” sounds… his compassion and loyalty was pleasantly unexpected. Jarek had a similar feel. As he trained Liam in the Dreamscape… he still had a quality that kept things light. His sense of humor had me laughing a couple of times. The majority of the book was focused on battles and violence… so the touches of humor, love, and lightness were nicely placed.
While the book was full of action and adventure and all things sci-fi… it was clear to me that the story also had a theme of acceptance running through it. Acceptance of things not at face value. Breaking of stereotypes and prejudice. Liam was a Finnian adopted into an Etrucian society. He was shorter, and darker, and just… different. Society wasn’t accepting of him and so he kept himself separated… even though those that DID get to know him loved him and respected him. Swift-Hunter was one of a species that was feared simply from afar because of their appearance. In reality he was trustworthy, and loyal, and compassionate (although still something to be fear if crossed). Things are not always as they seem.
November 28, 2014
As a young fellow, I enjoyed reading space opera: science fiction in which the goodies defeat the baddies after many tribulations, against overwhelming odds. After awhile, though, one lot of bug-eyed monsters blended into all the rest, and as with everything, repetition palled.
I chose to read this book because of its title. When I started, it seemed to be just another space opera, and while it was well done, it was more or less a “been there.”
However, the emotions were genuine, and I got to like two young men: Randolf and Liam.
Then I got interested in the technical aspects of the back story: genetically engineered people with inbred skills I wouldn’t mind having. However, the book grabbed me when we reached the justification for the title. Liam exacts horrendous revenge on the person who’d murdered both his natural and adoptive parents. Without lecturing, Kurt takes us into his reaction, and that of other important characters, to make us feel, at a gut level, why vengeance is wrong. He has a corporal say, “If an animal goes mad, you put a bullet in its head. You don’t torture it.”
Jarek, an important character, says, “The shadow lives in us all. That we feel this way, while it pains us, is a sign of hope.” Liam had done a terrible thing. His feeling of guilt and self-disgust is precisely the indication of his morality. At the end, he is able to appreciate that the chief villain “didn’t understand love. His nearest reference was desire. I think Councilor Licinious was the same. I hated them before, but now, I pity them.”
So, my initial impression was wrong. To me, literature is distinguished from mere entertainment by having a deeper message that makes the reader think. “Price of Vengeance” is literature, and none the less entertaining for that.
I chose to read this book because of its title. When I started, it seemed to be just another space opera, and while it was well done, it was more or less a “been there.”
However, the emotions were genuine, and I got to like two young men: Randolf and Liam.
Then I got interested in the technical aspects of the back story: genetically engineered people with inbred skills I wouldn’t mind having. However, the book grabbed me when we reached the justification for the title. Liam exacts horrendous revenge on the person who’d murdered both his natural and adoptive parents. Without lecturing, Kurt takes us into his reaction, and that of other important characters, to make us feel, at a gut level, why vengeance is wrong. He has a corporal say, “If an animal goes mad, you put a bullet in its head. You don’t torture it.”
Jarek, an important character, says, “The shadow lives in us all. That we feel this way, while it pains us, is a sign of hope.” Liam had done a terrible thing. His feeling of guilt and self-disgust is precisely the indication of his morality. At the end, he is able to appreciate that the chief villain “didn’t understand love. His nearest reference was desire. I think Councilor Licinious was the same. I hated them before, but now, I pity them.”
So, my initial impression was wrong. To me, literature is distinguished from mere entertainment by having a deeper message that makes the reader think. “Price of Vengeance” is literature, and none the less entertaining for that.
April 29, 2014
Liam is a soldier. And he’s the last of his family. He’s extraordinarily agile and can “step out of time,” which makes him very hard to kill. Because he’s a head shorter than everyone else in his community, he has had more than his share of ridicule.
Adopted by another family after the deaths of his parents by chitin, large insect-like creatures, he then finds that their deaths was, instead, murder, and those responsible have also killed his adoptive parents. He wants vengeance.
But vengeance carries a price that he may or may not be willing to pay.
Kurt Springs takes us through an action-filled adventure of villains and monsters, of kindness and redemption, and searches the human soul for motives that transcend our tendency toward “getting even.” Does vengeance carry a price? Does it always carry a price?
Liam, separated from the rest of the community, and with knowledge that the community needs if it is to survive the assault of the chitin, fights his way past one group of chitin after another. He enjoys very little rest as he fights his way to get back to his community.
This is an exhilarating story, full of action and adventure, and with no assurance that everything will turn out all right, even into the very last battle. Once started, this book is hard to put down. You will want to add this book to your library so you can read it again and again.
Adopted by another family after the deaths of his parents by chitin, large insect-like creatures, he then finds that their deaths was, instead, murder, and those responsible have also killed his adoptive parents. He wants vengeance.
But vengeance carries a price that he may or may not be willing to pay.
Kurt Springs takes us through an action-filled adventure of villains and monsters, of kindness and redemption, and searches the human soul for motives that transcend our tendency toward “getting even.” Does vengeance carry a price? Does it always carry a price?
Liam, separated from the rest of the community, and with knowledge that the community needs if it is to survive the assault of the chitin, fights his way past one group of chitin after another. He enjoys very little rest as he fights his way to get back to his community.
This is an exhilarating story, full of action and adventure, and with no assurance that everything will turn out all right, even into the very last battle. Once started, this book is hard to put down. You will want to add this book to your library so you can read it again and again.
August 30, 2014
Liam had a tough life. His parents death brought him into the home of a wonderful family and while he formed a deep relationship with them, he still was a lone wolf. Physically he was different than the people around him and was teased as a child. Learning to fight and remain strong, gave Liam a strength and determination not often seen. As a soldier, he set out to protect his family who took him in and the few close people he saw as friends. When an evil sets out to enslave his world, Liam steps up to keep everyone safe, with the help of an old friend of his parents.
I loved Mr. Springs writing. I was pulled along with Liam through his journey. I could see the battle around him and understand his determination to remain true to his beliefs, even in the face of war. The conflict was unique and inspiring. I think I enjoyed the fight scenes most of all!
Both Liam and his adoptive brother, fight the evil in different ways and in most of the book, without the knowledge of each other. I don't want to give away too much or the ending, but readers will leave satisfied and wanting more. I would love to hear about Liam's mentor Jarek's story and more from Liam as I'm sure he couldn't just settle down to a regular life.
I loved Mr. Springs writing. I was pulled along with Liam through his journey. I could see the battle around him and understand his determination to remain true to his beliefs, even in the face of war. The conflict was unique and inspiring. I think I enjoyed the fight scenes most of all!
Both Liam and his adoptive brother, fight the evil in different ways and in most of the book, without the knowledge of each other. I don't want to give away too much or the ending, but readers will leave satisfied and wanting more. I would love to hear about Liam's mentor Jarek's story and more from Liam as I'm sure he couldn't just settle down to a regular life.
May 6, 2014
War is Upon Us
First of all, this is not my genre. I rarely read sci-fi owing to a “technical detail” fatigue, but the prologue of this wonderful book started with the character dynamic, not an elaborate sci-fi world. I HAD to care. I had to know what was going to happen to my poor characters.
Liam has been raised in an adopted military family. The culture and heritage felt genuine. He’s a bit of an outcast, and I loved that he’s an introvert and man of action, always stepping forward when there’s a job to be done. He takes the initiative and finds some rather startling and creative solutions, even when it seems like all may be lost. I loved that he wasn’t a crowd pleaser, although definitely a hero.
The dream walking aspects were fascinating and rather mind blowing while the world building left me anxious to know more about their universe.
The author doesn’t bog the reader down with the technical aspects and the story is action focused. I would definitely read more from this author.
First of all, this is not my genre. I rarely read sci-fi owing to a “technical detail” fatigue, but the prologue of this wonderful book started with the character dynamic, not an elaborate sci-fi world. I HAD to care. I had to know what was going to happen to my poor characters.
Liam has been raised in an adopted military family. The culture and heritage felt genuine. He’s a bit of an outcast, and I loved that he’s an introvert and man of action, always stepping forward when there’s a job to be done. He takes the initiative and finds some rather startling and creative solutions, even when it seems like all may be lost. I loved that he wasn’t a crowd pleaser, although definitely a hero.
The dream walking aspects were fascinating and rather mind blowing while the world building left me anxious to know more about their universe.
The author doesn’t bog the reader down with the technical aspects and the story is action focused. I would definitely read more from this author.
August 28, 2014
Science Fiction as a genre can range from the bizarre to realistic and everything in between. "Price of Vengeance" takes place on the planet of Etrusci. Liam was an orphan at an early age and as an adult he learns the truth of his past and must stand tall and fierce to help defend the city of New Olympia from the chitin.
One problem with some authors in the genre is that they fill the pages with boring tech and specs and lose the reader. With "Price of Vengeance" that is no problem as the author keeps the boring jargon out and instead fills the pages with intense battles and complex characters with an intriguing plot.
This book feels like a more grounded version of Starship Troopers, which isn't a bad thing. Liam's history and dilemmas kept me focused and the action scenes were icing on this sci-fi piece. If you are a fan of science fiction, check out this great read.
One problem with some authors in the genre is that they fill the pages with boring tech and specs and lose the reader. With "Price of Vengeance" that is no problem as the author keeps the boring jargon out and instead fills the pages with intense battles and complex characters with an intriguing plot.
This book feels like a more grounded version of Starship Troopers, which isn't a bad thing. Liam's history and dilemmas kept me focused and the action scenes were icing on this sci-fi piece. If you are a fan of science fiction, check out this great read.
August 29, 2014
What is the price of vengeance? It’s a question we humans should consider before taking many of the actions we do. Kurt D. Springs has done us a favor by forcing his character, Liam, to answer the question and letting us watch what happens. The story is engaging from beginning to end with plenty of action and many surprises as the reader learns, along with Liam, what his special powers are and how to use them. The sub-title, “A Dreamscape Warrior Novel” suggests that this is only the first of possibly many stories Springs will be giving us utilizing this realm. I hope so.
The only complaint I have is that Springs, an anthropologist interested in megalithic landscapes in prehistoric Ireland, didn’t work more of those fascinating details into the story. I look forward to reading more stories by this talented author.
The only complaint I have is that Springs, an anthropologist interested in megalithic landscapes in prehistoric Ireland, didn’t work more of those fascinating details into the story. I look forward to reading more stories by this talented author.
May 26, 2015
A good read.
It was a little hard to read because of a formatting problem, but I contacted the author and that problem may be corrected by now.
The story is well done and fast-paced but in some scenes moves a bit too "smoothly" for the circumstances. The author recovers well as he continues and has enough hardships and difficulties for the main character to keep interest flowing.
I'm not a fan of excessive or gratuitous violence and liked the way the author restricted himself from resorting to overly descriptive verbiage while maintaining the theme. You know it's there, but don't have to slog through tedious, unnecessary fluff.
The only reason I'm giving this a four is because Amazon doesn't let us give half stars and it's not quite a five.
It was a little hard to read because of a formatting problem, but I contacted the author and that problem may be corrected by now.
The story is well done and fast-paced but in some scenes moves a bit too "smoothly" for the circumstances. The author recovers well as he continues and has enough hardships and difficulties for the main character to keep interest flowing.
I'm not a fan of excessive or gratuitous violence and liked the way the author restricted himself from resorting to overly descriptive verbiage while maintaining the theme. You know it's there, but don't have to slog through tedious, unnecessary fluff.
The only reason I'm giving this a four is because Amazon doesn't let us give half stars and it's not quite a five.
July 2, 2015
This story has a lot of nice story lines that all meet at the end. I felt bad that Liam was orphaned, and had to live with foster parents. However I liked that he found out who was responsible for it and he wants to make them pay. Add in a great alien world created by the author, and a mysterious and a deadly person in power. The writer blends them with military members. The end was good and I thought that it was a good fit for Liam. I am looking forward to the next installment. I hope there will be more mentions of Shakespeare, and his works. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
October 21, 2016
This was good, better in fact, than I expected!
The story was interesting and engaging , the main characters were well developed. I have to admit that I liked Randolf more than Liam. Don't get me wrong, Liam was powerful, hansome, smart, courageous and on top of that, he can step out of time...but ...Randolf was the one that made my heart cry, whenever he was in danger.
Azurius though, he was something else...I just loved this character. The games he played, the way he managed to control the citrin....
The story was interesting and engaging , the main characters were well developed. I have to admit that I liked Randolf more than Liam. Don't get me wrong, Liam was powerful, hansome, smart, courageous and on top of that, he can step out of time...but ...Randolf was the one that made my heart cry, whenever he was in danger.
Azurius though, he was something else...I just loved this character. The games he played, the way he managed to control the citrin....
July 26, 2014
I was very impressed with the pacing, and writing style of this book.
Sci-fi, by it's definition, implies a genre that will stretch the imagination. This book carries some truly creative aspects, and did so without burying the reader under unnecessary detail.
An enjoyable read by a writer that clearly has the talent to reach out through the pages, and slap you around. You'll close the book wishing that the sequel was near at hand.
Well done, Kurt Springs.
Sci-fi, by it's definition, implies a genre that will stretch the imagination. This book carries some truly creative aspects, and did so without burying the reader under unnecessary detail.
An enjoyable read by a writer that clearly has the talent to reach out through the pages, and slap you around. You'll close the book wishing that the sequel was near at hand.
Well done, Kurt Springs.
March 12, 2014
Price of Vengeance has to be one of the fastest books I've ever read. It comes on strong and quickly accelerates to where you just can't put it down. The Highly focused plot structure combines with brilliantly complex characters and takes you for a ride that you just don't want to end. Can't wait for book two.
May 6, 2014
I have to be honest... I was completely blown away by this book. Normally I don't read novels of this genre but Mr. Springs work has me rethinking my choices. The characters were impressively easy to relate too and the storyline keeps you captivated through the entire novel. Mr. Springs writing style is phenomenal and I highly recommend this novel to anyone. Good work.
December 21, 2014
Good story involving a new society, telepathic creatures, depicting the span of emotions from love to hate to vengeance. Nice setting and credibility is assured with technical explanations of technology. Suspense is tense throughout the book and heightened in the battles. A good read with a charming ending you'll need to read to appreciate.
December 17, 2014
While I am not typically a sci-fi reader, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced and written well. I even passed it along to a coworker as a book to read while on vacation.
April 26, 2015
Awesome story! I really enjoyed the writer's style and the characters. Reads fast and delivers. Love to read more of his work.
October 21, 2015
4/5 angel stars
April 12, 2024
Orphaned at age two by carnivorous insects called the chitin, Liam grew up to be a bit of a loner. Smaller in stature and noticeably different from everyone in New Olympia, Liam found his place in the loving arms of his foster family and their son, Randolf, and behind the scope of his favorite sniper rifle while guarding the outposts during extra shifts.
When the chitin resurfaces on Liam’s watch, sabotage leaves Liam injured, stranded, and presumed dead as an alien intelligence coordinates a devastating attack on the last remaining city on planet Etrusci. To have a fighting chance at saving the last city, Liam must become who he is meant to be or succumb to the ever-enticing lust for vengeance.
Author Kurt Springs crafts an immersive, fast-paced read in this military science fiction. I was immediately drawn into this world of danger. I appreciated the gradual introduction of new weaponry, adding depth and excitement to the story. The reader gets a small taste of what could be on the outside of the last city when Liam befriends a colorful creature with an intriguing persona. As the chitin press in on the citizens, the reader feels tugged into the streets and shops of the city Liam call's home in his last ditch effort to save it's people.
Liam’s character stole my heart from the first page. He is a selfless individual who quickly adapts to new challenges and obstacles. Injecting humor into dire situations made me laugh out loud. I particularly enjoyed a moment where Liam and his companions, amidst a life-threatening situation, deemed it the opportune time to discuss property damage. Humor I can appreciate. On the other side of that coin, this is a war. Although the characters are fighting monstrous creatures, Springs also highlighted some of the atrocities that human monsters make during times of war. It felt authentic, evoking genuine emotions as I read. Springs doesn’t forget about the villains and antagonists of the story. This villain had a personality and standards. I always love a villain who believes he’s doing the right thing and Springs really captured that aspect of his character well.
There is one line that resonates above the rest. “Love is the answer to the darkness surrounding him.” Although there is a romantic undercurrent throughout the novel, this line felt more directed to the characters’ overarching journey. Overall, this is an enjoyable read and by the way it ended, I eagerly anticipate the next installment. (ARC received from Reedsy)
When the chitin resurfaces on Liam’s watch, sabotage leaves Liam injured, stranded, and presumed dead as an alien intelligence coordinates a devastating attack on the last remaining city on planet Etrusci. To have a fighting chance at saving the last city, Liam must become who he is meant to be or succumb to the ever-enticing lust for vengeance.
Author Kurt Springs crafts an immersive, fast-paced read in this military science fiction. I was immediately drawn into this world of danger. I appreciated the gradual introduction of new weaponry, adding depth and excitement to the story. The reader gets a small taste of what could be on the outside of the last city when Liam befriends a colorful creature with an intriguing persona. As the chitin press in on the citizens, the reader feels tugged into the streets and shops of the city Liam call's home in his last ditch effort to save it's people.
Liam’s character stole my heart from the first page. He is a selfless individual who quickly adapts to new challenges and obstacles. Injecting humor into dire situations made me laugh out loud. I particularly enjoyed a moment where Liam and his companions, amidst a life-threatening situation, deemed it the opportune time to discuss property damage. Humor I can appreciate. On the other side of that coin, this is a war. Although the characters are fighting monstrous creatures, Springs also highlighted some of the atrocities that human monsters make during times of war. It felt authentic, evoking genuine emotions as I read. Springs doesn’t forget about the villains and antagonists of the story. This villain had a personality and standards. I always love a villain who believes he’s doing the right thing and Springs really captured that aspect of his character well.
There is one line that resonates above the rest. “Love is the answer to the darkness surrounding him.” Although there is a romantic undercurrent throughout the novel, this line felt more directed to the characters’ overarching journey. Overall, this is an enjoyable read and by the way it ended, I eagerly anticipate the next installment. (ARC received from Reedsy)
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