With the fourth stand-alone NeoG novel, Die Hard meets A Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet in this nail-biting, action-filled story that’s as much about found family as it is about survival when a peaceful transition of power in the Mars Orbital Station goes terribly wrong as rebels decide this is the moment to make their move, leaving two NeoG members stranded inside a ticking time bomb.
When you’re trapped in space, there’s no way out.
The mission of the Near-Earth Orbital Guard is to ensure the peace and security of the solar system. Commander Maxine Carmichael and Lieutenant Commander Saqib Vahid are at the Mars Orbital Station (MOS) to help facilitate the official handover from NeoG to Mars civilian control as part of the ongoing negotiations. Members of the extreme wings of the fight for Martian independence refuse to remain silent, and are willing to resort to violence to make their voices heard; Max and Saqib find themselves fighting for their lives. The attacks both on the MOS and the ground of Mars sets off a chain reaction that could destabilize the last few years of cautious peace.
The leader of Free Mars, Sylvia Moroz, knows better than anyone how fragile harmony is, having seen for decades the Coalition of Human Nations’ inability to negotiate for peace. Without any assurances—and knowing her splintered people all too well—anything less than complete liberation will only lead to more bloodshed. She’s not opposed to fighting, but when there’s an attempt on her life, she finds she must look for help from the NeoG and Commander D’Arcy Montaglione. The pair will have to overcome their past to figure out who they can trust and how to stop the attacks on the ground before more lives are lost.
Trapped inside the station, Carmichael and Vahid are scrambling to not only get to the bottom of the attackers’ motives, but also to simply survive. Because with the rest of the Zuma’s Ghost crew stuck down on Mars, it’s up to them to do what they can to keep the MOS from fully falling into the wrong hands…and keep Mars from descending into all-out war.
K.B. Wagers is the author of the Indranan & Farian War trilogies with Orbit Books and the new NeoG novels from Harper Voyager. They hold a bachelor's degree in Russian Studies and a second-degree black belt in Shaolin Kung Fu. A native of Colorado, K.B. lives at the base of the Rocky Mountains with their partner and a crew of recalcitrant cats. In between books, they can be found attempting to learn Spanish, dying in video games, dancing to music, and scribbling new ideas in their bullet journal. They are represented by Andrew Zack of The Zack Company.
This has got to be one of the most exhausting and tense books I’ve read in quite some time. Nonstop action, political intrigue and subterfuge. I felt like I couldn’t trust anyone and that made for some stomach clenching times. This book definitely has a different tone than the previous Neo-G books, but it was still a great read.
Definitely do not recommend starting with this book. I highly recommend starting at the beginning. While there are years between each book in the series, happenings from previous books are referenced and are used as the basis for each of the next books. Plus, relationship building between characters is essential to the enjoyment of the books.
Also, either the narration on the audio is getting better or I’m just getting more used to it. It was a solid listening experience and well worth my Audible credit.
On the one hand I read this over two days and I was completely invested. On the other hand, I like this series because so much is about the interpersonal goings on among this group of people who work on space ships. This book was all action from the first page — exhausting!
Y’all we are SO back! The NeoG is back in business with a tense, well-plotted race against the clock as our familiar group gets separated and has to dismantle a highly politicized space station hijacking from within (Max) and without (everyone else but most notably Nika, D’Arcy, and Jenks with Sapphi, Tamago, and Chae reprising their supporting roles). While the chapters themselves are kind of long, they’re broken up into punchy little sections that serve to maintain relentless forward momentum while giving us action (so many good little fight scenes), political background, hostage negotiation, collaboration with a long-time enemy, and good old investigation.
While this one is technically action- and plot-heavy, it doesn’t lose the found family aspect as characters continue to check in with and support each other as the going gets tough - and we even get to see snippets of the hard work of recovery after that kind of trauma.
I’m very happy to say that I’ll just pretend book 3 doesn’t exist and continue to look forward to potentially more NeoG books in the future!
{Thank you HarperVoyager for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review}
Wow, they sure weren't kidding about the Die Hard comp!
This jumps ahead a least a few years from the previous book and has to do a bit of explaining to establish where everyone is at, because it's been a year since I read the last book and had forgotten more than I realized lol. I very much enjoyed reading this!
That said, between the time jump and the previous trouble with new personnel, it kind of felt like we were missing part of the story? Everyone is in these new places and it's just...fine. When I finished the third book I said I didn't know if the author planned to write more, but would be happy if that was where the series ended. For me that still stands true, and while I liked reading this book, it didn't feel necessary (or quite as fulfilling).
100% Die Hard In Space, and a hell of a read. I finished it in one day because I just could not stop reading. Does a great job of giving all the characters something to do and really showing what a group effort something as immense and tense as hostage negotiation on and around a space station would be. And because Max is not Bruce Willis, she's going to need 30 years of therapy after the events of this book, and kudos to the book for acknowledging it.
I would pay money for a novel about the noodle incident briefly referenced on page 324 involving Max, Jenks, some mercenaries, some arms trading, and a cephalopod.
I wanted to like this book more than I actually did. It isn't a bad book by any means - if you're a fan of the NeoG series, I'm sure you'll love it. Here we find the NeoG heroes engaged in a complicated political and terrorist situation above Mars as the orbital station/gateway to Mars is being handed over to Martian control.
But there's a problem here. The marketing for this book will tell you that the books of the NeoG series are stand-alones that are linked together, but this is absolute nonsense. If you do not know the characters (as I didn't) or the universe (as I didn't), this book drops you in the middle of a universe you won't understand and with characters you don't know. Very little is explained - it is assumed that you're up-to-date on the series, so if you're wondering what "boarding games" are...or who runs Earth...or what the deal with Trappist is (or WHERE it is)...or the situation on Mars...sorry - you're out of luck here. Or even what the difference between NeoG and the rest of Earth's military is. Yes, you're told in the blurb about how this is inspired by the Coast Guard and sure...I get that. Except that seems a stretch in what is going on in this book.
Moreover, there is so much backstory on the characters that you don't get (because, as I said, you're dropping in media res) I actually had to put the book down and look for summaries of the three prior books in order to understand anything. Max comes across as kind of a borderline "Mary Sue" if you don't know all that backstory (to be clear - she is not one...and I hate that term...but again...I'm reading this as the 'stand=alone' that it was labeled as). Same for other characters. You don't get the impact of the characters on different sides because you've never met them before. I don't know if this is a marketing fail or if the author really believes these are stand-alone novels. But it was incredibly frustrating.
The constant pronouns thing - look, I get it. And let me be absolutely clear - people should be called however they want...I have NO PROBLEM with they/them/their or whatever someone wants to be called. It is just so much in this books (and I assume the prior ones) that I found it getting in the way of the story. And the story itself is fine! I just don't understand why this is being marketed as a stand-alone when it clearly isn't. I probably never would have read it if it wasn't.
Sadly, my experience has probably meant that I'm not going to go back and read the back catalog. And that's probably a shame since there is some interesting stuff in the background here. I'm afraid 3 stars is the best I can do. As always, ymmv.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book - all opinions are entirely my own and freely given.
I was starting to feel a bit of a lull in this series with the last book, even though I’ve absolutely loved it overall. This one brought it all back. Non-stop action and a really solid story. Still vibing with the characters and the world of the NeoG. This author is so slept on.
This was... a lot. A great, high adrenaline novel for the NeoG series.
Content warning include: graphic death and injury, terrorism, mass murder, trauma, hostage situation.
I really enjoyed the NeoG series when I found it last year, and this new novel was no exception. While the first three books were never without action, this one raised it all on a whole new level.
From the get go, the book is way more serious than the previous ones. There is no relationship drama, and no boarding games - the entire book plays over the course of one day (possibly only a series of hours?) and against one massive, horrifying attack on a day that should lead to more peace.
There is a time skip between And the Mighty Will Fall, which is the fourth book in the series, and the previous books, The Ghost of Trappist. It's also been over a year since I read it. As such, I struggled a bit with recalling the massive cast of characters and their relationships and character dynamics. There is a cast list at the beginning of the book, grouping all appearing characters based on their factions/teams, but that admittedly didn't really help me. I did find my groove eventually, but I do think the series is best enjoyed when you have a deep understanding of the characters and dynamics, though it does still work when you just vaguely remember. I don't think it would work as a standalone, was there is next to no recap of anything that has happened before.
Something that really struck with me was Max's character arc, especially towards the end. While the book is full of personal tragedy, what is happening to Max, or rather how what she has to do in this book, is absolutely horrifying on an emotional level. It isn't really resolved at the end, which makes sense because my god it would take a lot of time, but I'm very curious to see how it will affect her in upcoming books - I have a feeling it's going to be a big plot point.
While the series has always excelled at having a huge cast of interesting characters, I enjoyed seeing so many of them working together here, and to see them all individually excel at their jobs. That was very satisfying to read.
I said before there is not much relationship-focus in And the Mighty Will Fall - the few relationships that do advance do so very subtly, and it's more groundwork that is laid for possible future developments. I enjoyed that, too, as the main plot is just so all-encompassing. But it makes me excited to see how these things develop in possible future books.
Overall a great, high adrenaline and fast-paced installment of the series!
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
**Book Review: _And the Mighty Will Fall_ by K.B. Wagers**
If "Die Hard" had a cosmic cousin, it would be K.B. Wagers' gripping space opera, _And the Mighty Will Fall_. This fourth installment in the heart-pounding series proves once again why Wagers has established themselves as a maestro of suspenseful, interstellar thrillers.
**Summary:** Set against the backdrop of a sprawling space station, the plot kicks off with unrelenting intensity and doesn't let up until the final page. Our beloved protagonist, Major Hail Bristol, is back and entangled in yet another high-stakes scenario. As enemies emerge from the shadows and allegiances are tested, the action unfolds with the finesse of a blockbuster film, complete with explosive twists and edge-of-your-seat moments.
**Review:** _And the Mighty Will Fall_ is a masterclass in pacing and character development. Wagers expertly balances the intricate plot with deeply human moments that make the characters, particularly Hail, resonate with authenticity. Readers will find themselves rooting for Hail as she navigates not just physical threats, but moral dilemmas and emotional battles.
The novel's setting is as much a character as the individuals who inhabit it. The space station is vividly rendered, its claustrophobic corridors and expansive views of the cosmos creating a dynamic backdrop for the unfolding drama. The world-building is meticulous, yet seamlessly integrated into the narrative, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully without feeling overwhelmed by exposition.
Wagers' prose is sharp and evocative, making every action sequence pulse with life and every quiet moment feel profoundly significant. The dialogue crackles with wit and tension, further drawing readers into the intricate web of alliances and rivalries.
**Final Thoughts:** _And the Mighty Will Fall_ is a thrilling ride from start to finish, blending high-octane action with thoughtful exploration of complex themes. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the series or a newcomer, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good sci-fi romp with a heart. And like you, I am also crossing my fingers for a fifth book in this stellar series!
Happy reading, and may your literary adventures continue to be out of this world! 📚🚀
Wow. When I read "Die Hard" in space, I admit I was a bit meh. Not so sure that was what I wanted to read. But in the end I read every Wagers book when it comes out (I actually have planned my reads before so that I would be finished on book birthday) and this time I did as well. With anticipation and quite a bit of dread (the "Die Hard", you know - and the fact that this would be the last book in the series). And now I'm at a lost. This is something that happened to me after every NeoG book - the dreaded hangover... What to read next. Only this time it's worse, because I know there won't be a next time. I didn't give this book 5 stars because it is flawless. It is not. But it left me a bit teary and and a bit breathless and very sad to read the last sentence, so yes, 5 stars it is. Spoilers ahead:
Overall, I'm sad to see the NeoGs go and hope for a spin-off. Maybe the Crew of the Dread Treasure? Pretty please?
*I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I was fully not prepared for an addition to the NeoG series, but I saw this compared to Die Hard and knew I loved the characters so I knew I had to read it. While this is marketed as a series of standalones and there are callbacks throughout that explain the events of the first three books, I think the books should be read in order for maximum impact. Personally, I don't know if the reader would feel the same emotions toward the crew if they hadn't seen them through the events that bonded them together.
That being said, I think Die Hard is the perfect comp for this story and I loved every minute of it. This is probably my favorite book in the series so far, followed closely by Hold Fast Through the Fire. The plot here starts on page one and it is tense and fast-paced through to the end. I also love how diverse Wagers makes this series. Yes, the phrasing of "the trans woman" or "the cis woman" can read a little awkward; however, I appreciate that they use the same phrasing regardless of if the character being referenced is cis or trans. All in all, I really enjoyed this surprise addition to the NeoG series and look forward to reading more from K.B. Wagers.
This confict involves the planned handover of at least partial control of Mars to those on the rebel Free Mars side and a pathway to peace. Someone doesn't want that. Max has been sent to oversee the handover as a NeoG representative and gets caught up in what happens next.
Like many space opera novels this book features hostile attacks, hostages, threats of spacing some one, , bloody deaths and more. It also features kindness and love for fellow comrades in arms. And for me, the added enhancement of not minimising the toll that violent actions can take of those trying to protect others. Favourite characters Max and Jenks
From the blurb, this looked like it might have been a good or great science fiction book. I was mistaken. The book's first character that's introduced has mental illness. Usually, a book starts disclosing mental illnesses further in. With this book, the sixth word describes the mental illness. I would never have requested this book if there had been trigger warnings disclosed.
I received a complimentary copy with no obligation to post a review.
My thanks to NetGalley for making an eARC of this book available to me.
This is just non-stop action from the get-go. You may suffer from whiplash due to the constant and rapid changes to the point of view, but if you can suffer your way through it you'll be most gratified by this book. All of your old favorite players are back, plus a few new ones. This is a book of action, adventure, conspiracy, and found family. Definitely recommended (although you really should read this series in order from the beginning).
Another fantastic installment in the NeoG series. This is space adventure at its finest with a tight, fast-moving plot and super high stakes. The blurb describes this as "Die Hard in space" and that is a perfect description. This is the fourth book in the series and you will definitely get more out of it if you start at the beginning and really get to know the characters but this story also works as a standalone. I can't wait to see what my favorite crew of highly competent but imperfect misfits gets into next!
I was given a copy through netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoy a good sci-fi and can appreciate the action in this book.
I signed up for the arc because it's labeled as a standalone. However I immediately felt like I was missing out on a whole lot of backstory. There were so many characters and actions and labels going on I struggled to even attempt to catch up.
I feel like I need to start from the beginning to fully appreciate this work.
I like K.B. Wagers but not all of K.B. Wagers. These NeoG books leave me cold. In this standalone we have treachery and deception in the handover of the NeoG station to Mars authority. It's ok but not what I prefer from this author.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
So thrilled to experience another installment of the NeoG series. The frenetic pace and thrilling action sequences are brilliant. The rich characters with their realistic responses to survival and traumatic events and the inclusive world they inhabit make this such a pleasure to read. Wagers delivers again.
This was the best book of the series. Great culmination. Finally the NeoG is performing at top level with no interpersonal problems that matter. It’s a joy to read. The homage to Die Hard is perfect. I’m thrilled i read this series and sad this likely the last installment. Thank you k.b Wagers for the characters and all the feels.
A huge amount of fun. Main plot is Die Hard in space; what's not to like? Add in Wagers' established skill at character work and found family goodness without it ever being saccharine (way too much PTSD in the bulk of the cast for that, heh) and it's a hugely entertaining read. Recommended.
Some of the best character work in writing - emotions, personalities, issues, growth. A great built out future. The teams are split between a hostage situation in base above Mars, coordinating the response, and unraveling the mystery of who's behind it. Die Hard in space, with a great crew.
Really solid. Loved it start to finish. Really enjoyed the more focused plotting to this one. Enjoyed the previous ones too and their slightly scattered plotting as well, but this more focused story was excellent as well.
My space disaster babies have done it again. This time it’s Die Hard but in space. I love these characters with my whole heart. Nika. I know you’re a fictional character in a committed relationship with another fictional character, but give me a chance. I’d be so good to you.
I had a great time with this book. It is the fourth in a series, but it isn't losing steam yet. I found this book to be an absolute page turner, which I needed. It outcompeted all the distractions going on in the world.
that was fun. Finally, a NeoG novel that isn't about the stupid boarding games. this was just good, old fashioned, action from start to finish. Fights that meant something and didn't end with handshakes or hugs.
Foot on the pedal the whole time with not much time to breathe, but still had the ability to make me emotional/cry every other page?? Definitely need more of this series!! 🖤