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Galaxy in Flames #1
The Last Steward
From the embers of a galaxy in flames, destiny calls upon an unknown guardian.
Captain Axel Finn has spent his life running salvage missions with an alien crew and their war bot. This motley group has found refuge on his ship from their own tumultuous pasts. But little do any of them know, beneath his gentle demeanor, their steadfast captain is far from the peace following, adventure seeking giant of a man they all love. His pacifist ethos meant to safeguard them has edged them to the brink of financial ruin and drawn dangerous enemies.
Forced into a risky salvage operation, the crew uncovers an alien relic not of this galaxy.
Expecting treasure to pay their debts, they instead find an artifact of the Wrath, an extraterrestrial species that once decimated entire worlds. To decipher the true nature of their discovery, Axel seeks Rangnar Soki, a deadly bounty hunter famous for his pursuit of the Stewards—legendary warriors who stood against the Wrath in bygone days. But as the mystery of this artifact deepens, and hunters close in, an old enemy threatens to set the galaxy ablaze.
Axel must accept his legacy and unleash the monster within or watch everything he loves burn.
Captain Axel Finn has spent his life running salvage missions with an alien crew and their war bot. This motley group has found refuge on his ship from their own tumultuous pasts. But little do any of them know, beneath his gentle demeanor, their steadfast captain is far from the peace following, adventure seeking giant of a man they all love. His pacifist ethos meant to safeguard them has edged them to the brink of financial ruin and drawn dangerous enemies.
Forced into a risky salvage operation, the crew uncovers an alien relic not of this galaxy.
Expecting treasure to pay their debts, they instead find an artifact of the Wrath, an extraterrestrial species that once decimated entire worlds. To decipher the true nature of their discovery, Axel seeks Rangnar Soki, a deadly bounty hunter famous for his pursuit of the Stewards—legendary warriors who stood against the Wrath in bygone days. But as the mystery of this artifact deepens, and hunters close in, an old enemy threatens to set the galaxy ablaze.
Axel must accept his legacy and unleash the monster within or watch everything he loves burn.
498 pages, Paperback
Published May 4, 2024
1736 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Sansbury Smith
103 books2,379 followersNicholas Sansbury Smith is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels with two million copies sold. Before his writing career, he served at Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, a background that inspired many of his story concepts. A two time Ironman triathlete, he enjoys running, biking, and hiking. Nicholas also loves traveling, especially to his cabin in Northern Minnesota where he weaves his tales. He lives in Iowa with his wonderful wife and their son and daughter.
Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
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Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
Facebook Fan Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSSFa...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/nicholassans...
Website: nicholassansburysmith.com
Instagram: instagram.com/author_sansbury/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
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May 17, 2024My newest series is finally here! Galaxy in Flames kicks off with the Last Steward, a sci-fi adventure about Captain Axel Finn and his salvaging crew that make a discovery of a lifetime--an ancient alien relic from an extraterrestrial species that once decimated entire worlds. To decipher the true nature of their discovery, Axel seeks Rangnar Soki, a deadly bounty hunter famous for his pursuit of the Stewards—legendary warriors who stood against the Wrath in bygone days. But as the mystery of this artifact deepens, and hunters close in, an old enemy threatens to set the galaxy ablaze.
Fans of Star Wars, Firefly, Battlestar Galactica, and my other books should enjoy this story. There's plenty of galactic combat, snarky droids, ancient aliens, lost starships, and underdogs facing daunting odds. I hope you enjoy it!
Fans of Star Wars, Firefly, Battlestar Galactica, and my other books should enjoy this story. There's plenty of galactic combat, snarky droids, ancient aliens, lost starships, and underdogs facing daunting odds. I hope you enjoy it!
May 16, 2024
I loved this book so much!! If you want to be taken on a thrilling journey through the cosmos then this book is for you. This book has it all, intense action, intricate world-building and entertaining and captivating characters, Axel and his crew of misfits and Jax and her crew are my favourites.
The pacing is relentless, propelling the story forward with each turn of the page. From heart-stopping space battles to tense encounters with alien foes, the story is packed with adrenaline-fueled excitement that kept me on the edge of my seat.
One of the highlights of the story is its richly imagined universe. Smith has crafted a sprawling galactic landscape filled with diverse planets, alien species, and ancient mysteries waiting to be uncovered.
Nicholas Sansbury Smith has once again proven himself to be a master storyteller and I cannot wait for book 2!!
I rather liked the dual narration! Both narrators deliver stellar performances and their varied and wide ranged voices create a simply amazing auditory experience.
The pacing is relentless, propelling the story forward with each turn of the page. From heart-stopping space battles to tense encounters with alien foes, the story is packed with adrenaline-fueled excitement that kept me on the edge of my seat.
One of the highlights of the story is its richly imagined universe. Smith has crafted a sprawling galactic landscape filled with diverse planets, alien species, and ancient mysteries waiting to be uncovered.
Nicholas Sansbury Smith has once again proven himself to be a master storyteller and I cannot wait for book 2!!
I rather liked the dual narration! Both narrators deliver stellar performances and their varied and wide ranged voices create a simply amazing auditory experience.
May 14, 2024
Just finished the audiobook today! So many awesome battles and new character moments, just like I’d expect from NSS. I loved the twist turning us around for book 2.
If you’re looking for a new crew of space adventurers to follow into intense warfare, using both wisdom and killer training to fight for their people. NSS again delivers many reasons why I keep faith in his ability to entertain. Preordered with confidence and ready for the next!
If you’re looking for a new crew of space adventurers to follow into intense warfare, using both wisdom and killer training to fight for their people. NSS again delivers many reasons why I keep faith in his ability to entertain. Preordered with confidence and ready for the next!
June 23, 2024
Very YA so not really for me. All I will say is that whilst Mark Boyett is a masterful sci-fi narrator, great voices, emotion and excitement, the female reader Khristine Hvam, is a complete miscast, she might be good for a noir depressive slow-burn horror that supports a monotone, same voice for all characters, thick American twang, but not in a high action, many character, military sci-fi. Please try with another reader, or stick to Mark for the whole book.
August 7, 2024
This was a battle-heavy novel with little substance. It had diverse character species, but some of the characterizations were almost comical in their simplistic creation. Alien species that looked like dogs, but who were far more sentient, woolies speaking in baby talk, and spider-like aliens set on dominating the universe all were too trope-like for my taste. The inner conflict faced by the protagonist was too drawn out and was repeated over and over to the point where it just wasn't believable anymore. Overall, I would not recommend this one.
May 7, 2024
Absolutely loved Galaxy in Flames, The Last Stewart. I think it will be a new favorite. Up there with Hell Divers & Trackers. The characters are very likable, even Rangnar and at the end Rex Jessup. Of course Axel & crew are favorites. Can’t wait to see what develops between Axel & Jax. Fantastic job creating this story Nick., you are the ultimate story teller.
June 13, 2024
Explosive
Zany characters intense Heroes science fiction destructive weapons fire blades I love everything about this book I listen to it Audible and read some of it also I can't wait till the next book this is what science fiction is all about oh in the world you have to find out for yourself if you're into science fiction and action you will not be disappointed
Zany characters intense Heroes science fiction destructive weapons fire blades I love everything about this book I listen to it Audible and read some of it also I can't wait till the next book this is what science fiction is all about oh in the world you have to find out for yourself if you're into science fiction and action you will not be disappointed
May 28, 2024
The Last Steward (Galaxy In Flames Book 1)
I have just finished the 1st book in a new series by Nicholas Sansbury Smith (Nick). The series is called, "Galaxy In Flames." If you are reading this, you are probably already familiar with the “Hell Divers” series, certainly one of the top Sci-Fi Space genre of books ever written. I've read them all except except for HD-12, which I pre-ordered several months ago.
If you don’t care about attention to detail with a variety of characters, interesting backstories and mucho action, then don't read this book. Just grab an old copy of Reader Digest the next time you are in the doctor's office. However, if you have been jonesing for ‘Hell Divers 12’, then “Galaxy In Flames” is your fix. I am amazed at the wonderful writers I have met over the past few years, Nick Sansbury, is without a doubt one of the best.
This first book, The Last Steward, is excellent. Like his other books, the characters - some a bit weird - are always well developed, in a literary way. OK some are missing body parts, and social skills, but let's face it, they aren't coming over to meet your mom! I digress. This first book is the foundation for an entire adventure that is as exciting and unpredictable as any sci-fi movie or television series you’ve ever seen. If that isn’t enough of a reason, the AudioBooks is also available. The wonderful Mark Boyett and Khristine Hvam allows you to continue to enjoy the story when reading isn’t possible (or appropriate). I’ve already bought “Galaxy In Flames Book 2,” because I just want more! - Mr.Bill
I have just finished the 1st book in a new series by Nicholas Sansbury Smith (Nick). The series is called, "Galaxy In Flames." If you are reading this, you are probably already familiar with the “Hell Divers” series, certainly one of the top Sci-Fi Space genre of books ever written. I've read them all except except for HD-12, which I pre-ordered several months ago.
If you don’t care about attention to detail with a variety of characters, interesting backstories and mucho action, then don't read this book. Just grab an old copy of Reader Digest the next time you are in the doctor's office. However, if you have been jonesing for ‘Hell Divers 12’, then “Galaxy In Flames” is your fix. I am amazed at the wonderful writers I have met over the past few years, Nick Sansbury, is without a doubt one of the best.
This first book, The Last Steward, is excellent. Like his other books, the characters - some a bit weird - are always well developed, in a literary way. OK some are missing body parts, and social skills, but let's face it, they aren't coming over to meet your mom! I digress. This first book is the foundation for an entire adventure that is as exciting and unpredictable as any sci-fi movie or television series you’ve ever seen. If that isn’t enough of a reason, the AudioBooks is also available. The wonderful Mark Boyett and Khristine Hvam allows you to continue to enjoy the story when reading isn’t possible (or appropriate). I’ve already bought “Galaxy In Flames Book 2,” because I just want more! - Mr.Bill
July 2, 2024
My reading really goes in cycles. I listen to several books that I really enjoy and which have great narration. Top o' the world!
And then it starts to go downhill... I suffer through some real losers until I give up. Most recently, it has been The Last Steward (Galaxy In Flames Book 1) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith. It was an Audible Daily Deal and I love one of NSS's other series (go, Hell Divers!), so I bought it.
Unfortunately, I was very disappointed with the outrageous storyline, the juvenile humor, and the overdrawn and clichéd accents by co-narrator Mark Boyett. I doubt I even made it to 15 percent before calling it quits. This is definitely only for 14-year-old boys.
And then it starts to go downhill... I suffer through some real losers until I give up. Most recently, it has been The Last Steward (Galaxy In Flames Book 1) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith. It was an Audible Daily Deal and I love one of NSS's other series (go, Hell Divers!), so I bought it.
Unfortunately, I was very disappointed with the outrageous storyline, the juvenile humor, and the overdrawn and clichéd accents by co-narrator Mark Boyett. I doubt I even made it to 15 percent before calling it quits. This is definitely only for 14-year-old boys.
May 17, 2024
Not perfect, but close enough
It is easy to get caught up in details and things that are imperfect. This book has too much death and too many good people dying. This takes a great deal of the fun out of the story. But the possibility that Axel may be able to make things right leaves us with a reason to keep plodding forward to enjoying the plot.
A hasty thought, it would be interesting if our comments could affect the story slightly - perhaps a slight acknowledgment or thanks. Perhaps I am being overly hopeful..
I definitely enjoy the book and am looking forward to the next.
It is easy to get caught up in details and things that are imperfect. This book has too much death and too many good people dying. This takes a great deal of the fun out of the story. But the possibility that Axel may be able to make things right leaves us with a reason to keep plodding forward to enjoying the plot.
A hasty thought, it would be interesting if our comments could affect the story slightly - perhaps a slight acknowledgment or thanks. Perhaps I am being overly hopeful..
I definitely enjoy the book and am looking forward to the next.
June 23, 2024
Holy Hell
I loved the Hell Diver series and still have a few to go before finishing that series. When I seen the author had a new series I was in. Instantly hooked from the first few pages. Characters with great stories and designed for you to love or hate them. A world which you can see in your mind and is so deep I want more. Book 2 can’t get here soon enough. This is amazing. If you like the author or good space books I think this is a must read. Don’t miss out on this book this is absolutely amazing and I can’t praise the book and author enough
I loved the Hell Diver series and still have a few to go before finishing that series. When I seen the author had a new series I was in. Instantly hooked from the first few pages. Characters with great stories and designed for you to love or hate them. A world which you can see in your mind and is so deep I want more. Book 2 can’t get here soon enough. This is amazing. If you like the author or good space books I think this is a must read. Don’t miss out on this book this is absolutely amazing and I can’t praise the book and author enough
May 26, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. It starts off a little slow because of the mass amount of world building and character establishment that is needed. But once you really get into it you really grow to enjoy the characters and enjoy the story that it's developing into. I really liked the alien dogs. I look forward to seeing more of them. This is going to be a really fun series. Book one was an excellent beginning.
June 10, 2024
a new series from a great author
Wow, a seriously awesome read. A complete eradication of a species , all except 1 lone survivor. Can this survivor who does not even know his own history protect his crew. Can a bounty hunter protect his friends. Can a General protect his last son. Can a farmer protect her squad. Can they all stop the Wrath of a deadly species. I cant wait for the next book.
Wow, a seriously awesome read. A complete eradication of a species , all except 1 lone survivor. Can this survivor who does not even know his own history protect his crew. Can a bounty hunter protect his friends. Can a General protect his last son. Can a farmer protect her squad. Can they all stop the Wrath of a deadly species. I cant wait for the next book.
May 23, 2024
Wow! Just wow! Nicholas Sansbury Smith does here what he does so well! He's created an amazing world you want to learn more about. He's created characters with heart and depth. I'm already cheering for some and mad at others! I cannot wait for the next book in the series! Great work and looking forward to more.
June 11, 2024
This new space opera is mind boggling and visually exceptional. The details to each character and city is great! I actually sighed out loud with the loss of several characters but the needed story line was quite interesting. I’m looking forward to starting book 2 to see what happens to The Steward and his companions and Rangnar.
June 11, 2024
Galaxy on the brink
The galaxy is about to go to war against a foe that they still don't understand 35 years after their first contact. Nicholas Sansbury Smith brings you into a universe fully fleshed out. There is no black and white in this book. Every character you meet lives in a gray area. once you dive in, you will keep wanting to see what happens next.
The galaxy is about to go to war against a foe that they still don't understand 35 years after their first contact. Nicholas Sansbury Smith brings you into a universe fully fleshed out. There is no black and white in this book. Every character you meet lives in a gray area. once you dive in, you will keep wanting to see what happens next.
July 16, 2024
Great character driven story.
I enjoyed the variety of characters and their interactions. The plot moved nicely with some unexpected turns though I would prefer more closure on some subplots. But, that's why book 2 is coming. It's a fast moving enjoyable read I recommend to any sci-fi fan.
I enjoyed the variety of characters and their interactions. The plot moved nicely with some unexpected turns though I would prefer more closure on some subplots. But, that's why book 2 is coming. It's a fast moving enjoyable read I recommend to any sci-fi fan.
May 11, 2024
Great start to the series
This book is a great start to the series - some have honour, some are dishonourable & it’s not who you expect. Looking forward to Axel’s journey to fight for the galaxy in the next book. Another great sci-fi series started by Nicholas Sansbury Smith.
This book is a great start to the series - some have honour, some are dishonourable & it’s not who you expect. Looking forward to Axel’s journey to fight for the galaxy in the next book. Another great sci-fi series started by Nicholas Sansbury Smith.
May 14, 2024
Wowsa, this is awesome!
NSS shows with effortless ease that he can write in sci fi just as awesomely as post apocalyptic and military action.
Great characters and heart thumping action make this a thrilling read. I highly recommend reading this. Bring on book 2.
NSS shows with effortless ease that he can write in sci fi just as awesomely as post apocalyptic and military action.
Great characters and heart thumping action make this a thrilling read. I highly recommend reading this. Bring on book 2.
May 23, 2024
absolutely fantastic
NSS has been at the top of the scifi genre for years. Hell Divers and Orbs, and now Galaxy in Flames. The story is well-written with a tinge of old EU Star Wars, you know, before it sucked. Really looking forward to future installments.
NSS has been at the top of the scifi genre for years. Hell Divers and Orbs, and now Galaxy in Flames. The story is well-written with a tinge of old EU Star Wars, you know, before it sucked. Really looking forward to future installments.
June 11, 2024
If you like Star Wars, then you should love this book. It’s got many of the same concepts. Good vs Evil, corruption, and many different alien species. Planets are being slowly destroyed and an old fierce enemy is awakening.
June 29, 2024
Great story, very intense
The story was captivating and the characters interesting. At times the story got a bit intense, so I would set it down, not sure if I wanted to keep reading. But within a couple of hours I was drawn back in. I am looking forward to book 2.
The story was captivating and the characters interesting. At times the story got a bit intense, so I would set it down, not sure if I wanted to keep reading. But within a couple of hours I was drawn back in. I am looking forward to book 2.
June 2, 2024
Oh. My. Gosh. We really loved this new NSS series. This is classic space opera with the trademark wit and perfectly timed heroism that he is known for. This has everything you want in a space opera and more. Cannot wait for the next installment!
Note: language, violence but not overly graphic
Note: language, violence but not overly graphic
June 26, 2024
It Appears To Be A Good Start
Like any series the first book sets the story. In one of the galaxy spanning war it the second book that has to carry the rest of the saga. So I'm reserving my final view to book Four.
Like any series the first book sets the story. In one of the galaxy spanning war it the second book that has to carry the rest of the saga. So I'm reserving my final view to book Four.
May 17, 2024
The Last Steward
Good story from start to finish. Well written. Looking forward to next book of this series. Will read more from this author.
Good story from start to finish. Well written. Looking forward to next book of this series. Will read more from this author.
June 2, 2024
WOW. I read and really enjoyed the Hell Diver series. I am shocked this was written by the same author.
in a nutshell I thought this was suitable for a fourth grader.
in a nutshell I thought this was suitable for a fourth grader.
July 31, 2024
This is an epic start to a great series. I loved it. UGA is such a fun character.
October 19, 2024
A good space military story. It was a bit of work remembering who was who at the start as the POV skipped around, but slid into gear after 10 pages or so.
September 22, 2025
Yeah, it’s not hell divers, but it’s not bad either. I might continue but not sure.
July 24, 2024
Excellent beginning.
Primary character, Axel, has a secret. A secret and a history that runs in direct conflict with the man of peace his mother raised him to be. That peaceful nature instilled in him a kindness and forbearance in dealing with the turbulent world around him and lead him to the friends he now calls his crew. A tight knit group of aliens working on his ship, the Trash Squid.
On Axel's journey of rediscovery, you'll meet Rangnar Soki, a deadly bounty hunter famous for his pursuit of the last of a group of deadly warriors known as the Stewards, and Jax a sniper in a division of military ranks known as the Eagles. Of course, you'll also be introduced to Axel's crew of the Trash Squid and come along for a fast-paced ride through the galaxy as they all learn to overcome individual struggles and race to save humanity from an alien race, hell-bent on destroying millions of innocents.
I jumped directly into book 2 after this one. It is THAT good. And not a genre that I usually dive into. And if you're an audible user, it is excellent!
Primary character, Axel, has a secret. A secret and a history that runs in direct conflict with the man of peace his mother raised him to be. That peaceful nature instilled in him a kindness and forbearance in dealing with the turbulent world around him and lead him to the friends he now calls his crew. A tight knit group of aliens working on his ship, the Trash Squid.
On Axel's journey of rediscovery, you'll meet Rangnar Soki, a deadly bounty hunter famous for his pursuit of the last of a group of deadly warriors known as the Stewards, and Jax a sniper in a division of military ranks known as the Eagles. Of course, you'll also be introduced to Axel's crew of the Trash Squid and come along for a fast-paced ride through the galaxy as they all learn to overcome individual struggles and race to save humanity from an alien race, hell-bent on destroying millions of innocents.
I jumped directly into book 2 after this one. It is THAT good. And not a genre that I usually dive into. And if you're an audible user, it is excellent!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews