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Old Guns #1
Old Guns: A Military Sci-Fi Adventure
They’re too old for this fight . . . but they’re the only ones left standing.
When the Colonial Shield Federation needs someone to face an ancient alien threat, they don’t call their best; they call the only two Marines who survived first contact. Problem is, a decade of hard living has taken its toll on Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin. Frank has spent the last ten years drowning his memories in whiskey and starting bar fights, while Martin walks around on a cybernetic leg, tending his garden and trying to forget the past.
But their retirement comes to an abrupt end when a military transport arrives, crushing Martin’s prized tomatoes and bringing orders that can’t be refused. It seems the Hollow have returned . . . Forced back into now-outdated power armor and paired with a squad of combat-tested scientists who think they know the enemy better than the people who fought them do, these two grizzled veterans must face something far worse than death.
Because the Hollow don’t just kill; they collect. In the depths of a long-buried facility, Frank and Martin will quickly find out if they still have what it takes to survive―and what it will truly cost them.
The first book and bonus prequel novella kick off this high-octane military sci-fi saga, marking the explosive start of an exciting collaboration between USA Today–bestselling author J.N. Chaney and New York Times–bestselling author Nicholas Sansbury Smith that’s perfect for fans of Expeditionary Force and Undying Mercenaries.
When the Colonial Shield Federation needs someone to face an ancient alien threat, they don’t call their best; they call the only two Marines who survived first contact. Problem is, a decade of hard living has taken its toll on Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin. Frank has spent the last ten years drowning his memories in whiskey and starting bar fights, while Martin walks around on a cybernetic leg, tending his garden and trying to forget the past.
But their retirement comes to an abrupt end when a military transport arrives, crushing Martin’s prized tomatoes and bringing orders that can’t be refused. It seems the Hollow have returned . . . Forced back into now-outdated power armor and paired with a squad of combat-tested scientists who think they know the enemy better than the people who fought them do, these two grizzled veterans must face something far worse than death.
Because the Hollow don’t just kill; they collect. In the depths of a long-buried facility, Frank and Martin will quickly find out if they still have what it takes to survive―and what it will truly cost them.
The first book and bonus prequel novella kick off this high-octane military sci-fi saga, marking the explosive start of an exciting collaboration between USA Today–bestselling author J.N. Chaney and New York Times–bestselling author Nicholas Sansbury Smith that’s perfect for fans of Expeditionary Force and Undying Mercenaries.
- GenresScience Fiction
350 pages, Paperback
Published March 24, 2026
About the author
J.N. Chaney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 8, 2025
Old Guns
by J.N. Chaney and Nicholas Sansbury Smith
I love both of these authors so this was a win-win to start with. This story revolves around two retired military heroes who had fought and survived the Hollows. They are called back to serve to train others. More Hollows have been found.
I love the old Gunnie's interactions, dialogue, and relationship. The whole book is sharp, action-packed, witty, and it has both of their dogs in the story! I really loved that.
Great fight scenes! Unique because the enemy is unique! Exciting and excellent plot.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this amazing book! Can't wait for book #2!
by J.N. Chaney and Nicholas Sansbury Smith
I love both of these authors so this was a win-win to start with. This story revolves around two retired military heroes who had fought and survived the Hollows. They are called back to serve to train others. More Hollows have been found.
I love the old Gunnie's interactions, dialogue, and relationship. The whole book is sharp, action-packed, witty, and it has both of their dogs in the story! I really loved that.
Great fight scenes! Unique because the enemy is unique! Exciting and excellent plot.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this amazing book! Can't wait for book #2!
Currently Reading
March 25, 2026Dear reader, OLD GUNS is my brand new series, co-written with JN Chaney.
This one’s a little different from my other books. It’s still gritty, still fast-paced, still full of action… but there’s a lot more humor in this one. Frank and Martin are two aging Marines who are way past their prime, carrying more damage than they’d ever admit, and they absolutely can’t stand each other.
Which, of course, makes them perfect for the job.
I had a blast writing these characters. There’s something about putting two stubborn, worn-down Marines back into a fight. They’re not heroes in the traditional sense, but when things go bad, they’re the ones still standing.
If you’ve followed my work for a while, thank you. Your support is the reason I get to keep doing this. And if this is your first time picking up one of my books, I hope OLD GUNS pulls you in and keeps you turning pages late into the night.
If you decide to give it a shot, I’d really appreciate it.
Hope you enjoy the ride.
—Nick
This one’s a little different from my other books. It’s still gritty, still fast-paced, still full of action… but there’s a lot more humor in this one. Frank and Martin are two aging Marines who are way past their prime, carrying more damage than they’d ever admit, and they absolutely can’t stand each other.
Which, of course, makes them perfect for the job.
I had a blast writing these characters. There’s something about putting two stubborn, worn-down Marines back into a fight. They’re not heroes in the traditional sense, but when things go bad, they’re the ones still standing.
If you’ve followed my work for a while, thank you. Your support is the reason I get to keep doing this. And if this is your first time picking up one of my books, I hope OLD GUNS pulls you in and keeps you turning pages late into the night.
If you decide to give it a shot, I’d really appreciate it.
Hope you enjoy the ride.
—Nick
April 18, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Two older curmudgeon retired marines, who hate each other, get called back to duty to help fight an ancient alien race because they’re the only ones to have fought them and survived to tell the tale.
This had the feel of Aliens with the space marines landing on a planet to investigate and I enjoyed every minute.
I adored Frank and Martin. The banter between the two was hilarious. The Hollow, the ancient alien race, are a very unique type of alien, something I’ve never seen before. And very very deadly.
The action was non-stop, the future tech very cool… But the parts I couldn’t get enough of…!? Frank and Martin’s dogs!! Rex the Rottweiler and Cosmo the German Shepherd were extensions of their humans and, for me, I was more concerned about the dogs than any of the marines. Well, for most of the book. I did grow very attached to the motley crew of marines.
If you enjoy military scifi and the movie Aliens, I highly recommend Old Guns!
I just saw the cover for Young Guns, book 2 and I can’t wait to read this sequel. But in the meantime, I’m going to pick up The Gauntlet, the novella prequel, to get more Frank and Martin.
Two older curmudgeon retired marines, who hate each other, get called back to duty to help fight an ancient alien race because they’re the only ones to have fought them and survived to tell the tale.
This had the feel of Aliens with the space marines landing on a planet to investigate and I enjoyed every minute.
I adored Frank and Martin. The banter between the two was hilarious. The Hollow, the ancient alien race, are a very unique type of alien, something I’ve never seen before. And very very deadly.
The action was non-stop, the future tech very cool… But the parts I couldn’t get enough of…!? Frank and Martin’s dogs!! Rex the Rottweiler and Cosmo the German Shepherd were extensions of their humans and, for me, I was more concerned about the dogs than any of the marines. Well, for most of the book. I did grow very attached to the motley crew of marines.
If you enjoy military scifi and the movie Aliens, I highly recommend Old Guns!
I just saw the cover for Young Guns, book 2 and I can’t wait to read this sequel. But in the meantime, I’m going to pick up The Gauntlet, the novella prequel, to get more Frank and Martin.
March 27, 2026
I Loved it!
These are not your typical aliens, nor a typical alien invasion, not your typical Marines either. It’s more than that.
It’s terrifying,exciting, outrageous, with sarcastic humour sometimes, defying age, with heart pounding scenes, emotive moments, edge of seat electrifying action! What an immersive world building too.
Sometimes profound, others fun, this new series is complete, complex characters with revenge plot, gritty settings, trauma and redemption. Engrossing story, captivating rollercoaster of emotions, full of raw and edgy narrative and amazing plot twists.
Can’t wait for the release of book-2.
These are not your typical aliens, nor a typical alien invasion, not your typical Marines either. It’s more than that.
It’s terrifying,exciting, outrageous, with sarcastic humour sometimes, defying age, with heart pounding scenes, emotive moments, edge of seat electrifying action! What an immersive world building too.
Sometimes profound, others fun, this new series is complete, complex characters with revenge plot, gritty settings, trauma and redemption. Engrossing story, captivating rollercoaster of emotions, full of raw and edgy narrative and amazing plot twists.
Can’t wait for the release of book-2.
November 21, 2025
Thanks to netgallery for allowing me to have the chance to read this amazing scifi book which definately knew how to draw in the right audience to read it.
The books plot was outstanding loved every part of the book, along with the characters you got to meet throughout as well.
A do mean what a say about it being hard to put down.
The books plot was outstanding loved every part of the book, along with the characters you got to meet throughout as well.
A do mean what a say about it being hard to put down.
Did Not Finish
March 13, 2026DNF @ 30%.
Old Guns relies on the tried-and-true buddy cop formula, reuniting two retired Marines who used to be best friends until tragedy tore them apart. Frank is a bitter, combative alcoholic, while Martin has found zen as a gardener in the years since his wife left him and his kids stopped speaking to him. This information is delivered early and often, and is the most character develop either men are given. Even then, it's nearly impossible to tell them apart, they're so shallow and one-dimensional. The supporting cast doesn't fare any better and never rise above being cardboard cutouts.
A third of the way in, this book grew far too tiresome to bother with anymore. Frank and Martin are alleged to be in their mid-50s, but they act like children. Their constant bickering is boring. When they're not bickering over whether or not Martin is responsible for the death of Frank's family in an op gone wrong, they're trading insults over one's weight and the other's baldness. It's all grade-school shenanigans with these two.
Supposedly there's an alien threat to contend with, but the focus is centered more on how lame and juvenile these two are. Me, I'm rooting for the aliens.
Old Guns relies on the tried-and-true buddy cop formula, reuniting two retired Marines who used to be best friends until tragedy tore them apart. Frank is a bitter, combative alcoholic, while Martin has found zen as a gardener in the years since his wife left him and his kids stopped speaking to him. This information is delivered early and often, and is the most character develop either men are given. Even then, it's nearly impossible to tell them apart, they're so shallow and one-dimensional. The supporting cast doesn't fare any better and never rise above being cardboard cutouts.
A third of the way in, this book grew far too tiresome to bother with anymore. Frank and Martin are alleged to be in their mid-50s, but they act like children. Their constant bickering is boring. When they're not bickering over whether or not Martin is responsible for the death of Frank's family in an op gone wrong, they're trading insults over one's weight and the other's baldness. It's all grade-school shenanigans with these two.
Supposedly there's an alien threat to contend with, but the focus is centered more on how lame and juvenile these two are. Me, I'm rooting for the aliens.
November 5, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
Old Guns follows Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin as they are called in for one more mission despite being retired. Both have been struggling in retirement due to events that happened a decade before.
Frank and Martin are my favourite type of Military Hero. Deeply flawed, but they are aware of those flaws and know they are a problem but they try their best.
Both Marines are called back due to surviving two contacts with an alien species called the Hollow. They are sent to a planet showing signs of Hollow contact to find something completely unexpected. What follows is a desperate fight for survival and to bring back the intelligence they discovered.
It was a wild ride from beginning to end. The fight scenes were great, seeing Frank and Martin grudgingly work together, and the drip feed of info about the Hollow was all all super engrossing.
I will say that sometimes Frank and Martin felt a little samey, and there were a few incidents that happened and then immediately cut to after they dealt with it. At one point I thought I had somehow skipped a page.
Old Guns follows Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin as they are called in for one more mission despite being retired. Both have been struggling in retirement due to events that happened a decade before.
Frank and Martin are my favourite type of Military Hero. Deeply flawed, but they are aware of those flaws and know they are a problem but they try their best.
Both Marines are called back due to surviving two contacts with an alien species called the Hollow. They are sent to a planet showing signs of Hollow contact to find something completely unexpected. What follows is a desperate fight for survival and to bring back the intelligence they discovered.
It was a wild ride from beginning to end. The fight scenes were great, seeing Frank and Martin grudgingly work together, and the drip feed of info about the Hollow was all all super engrossing.
I will say that sometimes Frank and Martin felt a little samey, and there were a few incidents that happened and then immediately cut to after they dealt with it. At one point I thought I had somehow skipped a page.
March 31, 2026
Excellent.. it had me hooked from the very beginning to the very end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really fun military sci-fi book. The two lead characters are a crackup. Their banter with each other is excellent, and their relationship is complicated. Excellent action, interesting enemies, and some really good twists! Can't wait to continue this series!
March 24, 2026
Frank and Martin thought their friendship and their time in the Marines were over. They thought wrong. When an old enemy resurfaces, their expertise as the only survivors of the last atrocity is required. They’re pulled out of retirement, dusted off, and sent to an alien world before they fully realize what’s happening. Unfortunately for them, a few details escaped their orientation.
If you enjoyed the movie RED, and like the idea of swapping retired spies for Marines and the US for alien worlds, Old Guns will be right up your alley.
From the first few pages, I was emotionally invested and hurting. What Frank and Martin go through is rough; their reactions, believable. It isn’t an easy read, but that hardship is the backbone of the story. The arc of their relationship is methodical and intense—forged in a crucible.
Who they are and why they are the way they are is thoroughly developed. Something interesting happens with the secondary characters, however. There are a few standouts, but they mostly congeal into a faceless lump. Early on, it strikes me as fairly realistic. They’re on a mission and tasked with protecting civilian scientists. Their view of these scientists is rather one-dimensional, but Marines need to evaluate people and situations quickly. The diagnosis is a familiar stereotype: brilliant minds with no sense. It lacks nuance, but two of them certainly earn it. Later, we’re introduced to a few military scientists—still brilliant, but less likely to accidentally kill themselves.
We spend a fair bit of time with this second batch, but again, they tend to clump together. Oddly enough, it doesn’t particularly bother me. They are recent acquaintances of Frank and Martin’s—coworkers, more or less, and they serve their purpose well enough. N’Joku does distinguish himself, as does Grommet. One character, who gets very little page time but uses it efficiently, becomes admirably hateable.
The story is interesting, keeping the reader uncertain about what they actually know and what they think they know. The pacing does drag a bit in places, but the action is lively and suspenseful. There are frequent and abrupt shifts in the point of view; it can be a little jarring. The ending does not resolve the conflict—it isn’t a cliffhanger, but it keeps the tension taut.
Old Guns lives up to its title; Martin and Frank are wonderful characters in a story that is anything but cookie-cutter. It has action, it has suspense, and more than a few emotional gut punches—making it a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Thank you, Podium Entertainment, for the opportunity to read Old Guns. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I am writing this review voluntarily.
If you enjoyed the movie RED, and like the idea of swapping retired spies for Marines and the US for alien worlds, Old Guns will be right up your alley.
From the first few pages, I was emotionally invested and hurting. What Frank and Martin go through is rough; their reactions, believable. It isn’t an easy read, but that hardship is the backbone of the story. The arc of their relationship is methodical and intense—forged in a crucible.
Who they are and why they are the way they are is thoroughly developed. Something interesting happens with the secondary characters, however. There are a few standouts, but they mostly congeal into a faceless lump. Early on, it strikes me as fairly realistic. They’re on a mission and tasked with protecting civilian scientists. Their view of these scientists is rather one-dimensional, but Marines need to evaluate people and situations quickly. The diagnosis is a familiar stereotype: brilliant minds with no sense. It lacks nuance, but two of them certainly earn it. Later, we’re introduced to a few military scientists—still brilliant, but less likely to accidentally kill themselves.
We spend a fair bit of time with this second batch, but again, they tend to clump together. Oddly enough, it doesn’t particularly bother me. They are recent acquaintances of Frank and Martin’s—coworkers, more or less, and they serve their purpose well enough. N’Joku does distinguish himself, as does Grommet. One character, who gets very little page time but uses it efficiently, becomes admirably hateable.
The story is interesting, keeping the reader uncertain about what they actually know and what they think they know. The pacing does drag a bit in places, but the action is lively and suspenseful. There are frequent and abrupt shifts in the point of view; it can be a little jarring. The ending does not resolve the conflict—it isn’t a cliffhanger, but it keeps the tension taut.
Old Guns lives up to its title; Martin and Frank are wonderful characters in a story that is anything but cookie-cutter. It has action, it has suspense, and more than a few emotional gut punches—making it a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Thank you, Podium Entertainment, for the opportunity to read Old Guns. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I am writing this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2026
Two old Marines return to active duty to fight the Hollow
Master Gunnery Sergeants (Retired) Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin haven't spoken in years. In fact, they hate each other. But they weren't given a choice. They were healed, cured, fixed, upgraded and updated their cybernetics and put to work training a new elite unit to investigate new sightings of the Hollow, mankind's worst threat. The Hollow pulse in and out of our reality, part energy, part matter of some type, every encounter with humanity has resulted in destruction and massive loss of life.
Two old gunnies and a crew of young hotshots make for great interactions, some bruises and humor. The characters are amazing with great dialogue. The storyline is intriguing and entertaining with near constant action. This is a great read!
Master Gunnery Sergeants (Retired) Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin haven't spoken in years. In fact, they hate each other. But they weren't given a choice. They were healed, cured, fixed, upgraded and updated their cybernetics and put to work training a new elite unit to investigate new sightings of the Hollow, mankind's worst threat. The Hollow pulse in and out of our reality, part energy, part matter of some type, every encounter with humanity has resulted in destruction and massive loss of life.
Two old gunnies and a crew of young hotshots make for great interactions, some bruises and humor. The characters are amazing with great dialogue. The storyline is intriguing and entertaining with near constant action. This is a great read!
March 30, 2026
Great start to a new series. Constant action and interesting bad guys. Two old, washed up marines who still have the experience to do the job. I'm interested to see where this goes.
And of course RC Bray.
And of course RC Bray.
March 24, 2026
great read!
Once I started I couldn’t put it down, superbly put together and well written. If you have read any of the Authors other books you know how good they are. I fully recommend Old Guns and can’t wait for the next installment
Once I started I couldn’t put it down, superbly put together and well written. If you have read any of the Authors other books you know how good they are. I fully recommend Old Guns and can’t wait for the next installment
April 1, 2026
Good story with interesting twist.
March 25, 2026
Really enjoying listenint to book 1! The main characters, Frank and Martin, are funny and then there’s Cosmo! Love the narration by RC Bray. Story and characters are great! Highly recommended.
April 11, 2026
If somebody told me last year that I would be crying over a sci-fi book in April 2026, I would have laughed in their face... but now? What did I just read?
I loved this!
Confession: I haven't read a lot of sci-fi; in fact, I only recently started reading it. The main reason for this is because I felt intimidated by it, but this proved that I could love it if I find my little niche in it.
Reading this book literally felt like I was watching a movie. The writing was so good.
I also loved the characters, they have my heart. Going into this I was skeptical, but the characters had a lot of depth - more than I initially expected and the more time I spent reading about them, the more I liked them. Watching Martin and Frank slowly put the past behind them and starting to heal their friendship was something I didn't expect going into this, and it tore out my heart. Also, I didn't love N'Joku at the beginning, but by the end of the book I wanted to wrap him in a warm cocoon and keep him safe from the outside world.
And the plot?
This was fun, fast-paced, epic, heart-wrenching... I could keep going, but then we'd be here forever. I need more books like this.
Not once in this book did I feel like any aspect of it was slacking or just not holding my interest. I was sat, so standing ovation.
Thank you to Netgalley and Podium Entertainment for the advanced reader copy.
I loved this!
Confession: I haven't read a lot of sci-fi; in fact, I only recently started reading it. The main reason for this is because I felt intimidated by it, but this proved that I could love it if I find my little niche in it.
Reading this book literally felt like I was watching a movie. The writing was so good.
I also loved the characters, they have my heart. Going into this I was skeptical, but the characters had a lot of depth - more than I initially expected and the more time I spent reading about them, the more I liked them. Watching Martin and Frank slowly put the past behind them and starting to heal their friendship was something I didn't expect going into this, and it tore out my heart. Also, I didn't love N'Joku at the beginning, but by the end of the book I wanted to wrap him in a warm cocoon and keep him safe from the outside world.
And the plot?
This was fun, fast-paced, epic, heart-wrenching... I could keep going, but then we'd be here forever. I need more books like this.
Not once in this book did I feel like any aspect of it was slacking or just not holding my interest. I was sat, so standing ovation.
Thank you to Netgalley and Podium Entertainment for the advanced reader copy.
March 27, 2026
OLD GUNS was everything I hoped it'd be! Loved the concept of two old, crusty, grumpy Marines getting reactivated. So. Much. Fun--but also, malevolent aliens. The banter between Frank and Martin was feral, and I loved it! NSS and Chaney created a brilliant and terrifying alien life-form in the Hollow, and I found myself holding my breath more than once. I adore Cosmo and Rex, their K9 companions who brought so much humanity to this alien space adventure! I can't wait for the next installment!
Notes: language, violence, feral banter
I purchased the audiobook so I could hear the unparalleled RC Bray voice these grumpy heroes, but also thanks to Podium Entertainment and Nicholas Sansbury Smith for a copy of the paperback.
Notes: language, violence, feral banter
I purchased the audiobook so I could hear the unparalleled RC Bray voice these grumpy heroes, but also thanks to Podium Entertainment and Nicholas Sansbury Smith for a copy of the paperback.
March 25, 2026
I read everything Nicholas Sansbury Smith puts out. R. C. Bray narrating? Icing on the cake. This is my first introduction to J.N. Chaney and you can bet I'll be looking into more of his work.
I always expect big things from NSS and when he starts a new series I can't wait to dive into the new world. I was absolutely not disappointed. Martin and Frank thought their days in armor were over. Boy could they not have been more wrong. I loved these rich, relatable characters. Their relationships with each other, and the others in the group, was lively and entertaining. I swear I served with these guys.
It's amazing how quickly I blew through this book. I couldn't put it down. You won't be able to either.
I always expect big things from NSS and when he starts a new series I can't wait to dive into the new world. I was absolutely not disappointed. Martin and Frank thought their days in armor were over. Boy could they not have been more wrong. I loved these rich, relatable characters. Their relationships with each other, and the others in the group, was lively and entertaining. I swear I served with these guys.
It's amazing how quickly I blew through this book. I couldn't put it down. You won't be able to either.
March 27, 2026
Old Guns: A Military Sci-fi Adventure - a very difficult book to put down.
Another excellent adventure by two of the best Sci-Fi writers in the business, J.N. Chaney and Nicholas Sansbury, Mr. 'Hell Diver,' himself. Add to this dynamic writing duo, the voice of R.C. Bray, and you've got a trifecta of talent.
The book 'Old Guns' reunites a couple of basically, 'mothballed' spacers who have an uncomfortable history. When duty calls, like it or not, their experiences are required. 'Old Guns' takes the reader to a unique region of space where an unsettling discovery will test everything this crew has ever encountered. -Mr.Bill
Another excellent adventure by two of the best Sci-Fi writers in the business, J.N. Chaney and Nicholas Sansbury, Mr. 'Hell Diver,' himself. Add to this dynamic writing duo, the voice of R.C. Bray, and you've got a trifecta of talent.
The book 'Old Guns' reunites a couple of basically, 'mothballed' spacers who have an uncomfortable history. When duty calls, like it or not, their experiences are required. 'Old Guns' takes the reader to a unique region of space where an unsettling discovery will test everything this crew has ever encountered. -Mr.Bill
April 6, 2026
First, thank you to author Nicholas Sansbury Smith for a copy to review!
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Military scifi featuring two retired old marines being thrown back into the fray. They have to deal with the falling out they had years ago and work together again against an enemy they barely understand.
My favorite character archetype (grumpy old man), and theres two of them. Gotta love it. But what I loved most was the friendship between Frank and Martin.
Of course, with military scifi youre going to get a lot of fighting and talk of armor and weaponry. I love that.
Truly enjoyed the mystery of the alien threat. The ending has set up for an intense second book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Military scifi featuring two retired old marines being thrown back into the fray. They have to deal with the falling out they had years ago and work together again against an enemy they barely understand.
My favorite character archetype (grumpy old man), and theres two of them. Gotta love it. But what I loved most was the friendship between Frank and Martin.
Of course, with military scifi youre going to get a lot of fighting and talk of armor and weaponry. I love that.
Truly enjoyed the mystery of the alien threat. The ending has set up for an intense second book.
March 24, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
Old Guns is the kind of book that reminds you of all the things you can become when life has seasoned you with experience. It’s gruff, it’s warm, it’s unexpectedly funny — and the leads embody that perfect blend of grumpy charm and hard‑earned wisdom that only well‑developed characters can pull off.
The story itself feels timeless, but it’s told with the sharp, grounded perspective Nicholas Sansbury Smith brings to all his work. You can feel his signature style in the pacing, the grit, and the emotional undercurrent that runs through every chapter.
This isn’t just a tale about older heroes; it’s a celebration of resilience, humor, and the kind of strength that doesn’t fade with age — it just changes shape. A fantastic read and a strong start to what I hope becomes a long‑running series.
Old Guns is the kind of book that reminds you of all the things you can become when life has seasoned you with experience. It’s gruff, it’s warm, it’s unexpectedly funny — and the leads embody that perfect blend of grumpy charm and hard‑earned wisdom that only well‑developed characters can pull off.
The story itself feels timeless, but it’s told with the sharp, grounded perspective Nicholas Sansbury Smith brings to all his work. You can feel his signature style in the pacing, the grit, and the emotional undercurrent that runs through every chapter.
This isn’t just a tale about older heroes; it’s a celebration of resilience, humor, and the kind of strength that doesn’t fade with age — it just changes shape. A fantastic read and a strong start to what I hope becomes a long‑running series.
March 31, 2026
J.N. Chaney and Nicholas Sansbury Smith start a fun future tale of two retired gunnery sergeants who are reinstated to face the hollow; strange aliens who can float through matter. These two Old Guns (paper from Podium Publishing) have to help train a team to face the aliens. Unfortunately Frank Cage and Martin Kelvin find out more than they should, including corruption in the high command and an ancient alien civilization known for killing all other intelligent species. Can humanity survive these aliens? Find out in the second book.
April 2, 2026
Well he has done it again. What a story. It's a cross between Grumpy Old Men+Band of Brother's+And something I have never "seen". The world makes the imagination fire on all 8. The character development is so good by the time I hit chapter 3 I felt like I was reading a letter from a long lost friend. Can't wait to see what this too "Old Gun's" do.
April 6, 2026
I read everything Nicholas Sansbury Smith writes! I love the characters and worlds that he creates. Old Guns is no different! I'm already love Frank and Martin! I have this perfect combination of curmudgeonly old man and bad ass seasoned warrior. I honestly can't wait to see where these guys go. I love the mix of of other planets and alien species with the military aspect.
March 29, 2026
Fun exciting new series!
Two old space dogs, recalled in the service.It makes a very interesting book with lots of excitement and some humerous parts. Well written and making me anxious to read the next book.
Two old space dogs, recalled in the service.It makes a very interesting book with lots of excitement and some humerous parts. Well written and making me anxious to read the next book.
April 8, 2026
Great book! I loved the premise of retired military soldiers being called back up to teach the young
Soldiers how to fight. I listened to that audiobook. It was narrated by RC Bray and was excellent a narration.
Soldiers how to fight. I listened to that audiobook. It was narrated by RC Bray and was excellent a narration.
April 10, 2026
Exceptional and Fun
Really enjoyed this sci fi adventure with a couple of grumpy old marines. Such cool characters and great story telling from two of the best going around. If you love a ripping yarn, do yourself a favour and read this. Brilliant.
Really enjoyed this sci fi adventure with a couple of grumpy old marines. Such cool characters and great story telling from two of the best going around. If you love a ripping yarn, do yourself a favour and read this. Brilliant.
April 18, 2026
Totally enjoyed this book. If you are a retired member of the military, you will definitely enjoy the back-and-forth action between the characters. Took me back to the memories of comrade we had in the service.
March 28, 2026
long read but it's good
Good story line and enjoyable but very wordy. I wish that much of the filler words were left out and it would be a better read
Good story line and enjoyable but very wordy. I wish that much of the filler words were left out and it would be a better read
March 29, 2026
Man, that was tense and exciting….and fun.
Makes me want to go out and get a German Shepherd or a Rottweiler. A great start to what hopefully will be a continuing saga.
Makes me want to go out and get a German Shepherd or a Rottweiler. A great start to what hopefully will be a continuing saga.
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