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Omega Force #5
Return of the Archon
Listening length: 9 hours
Each member of Omega Force carries his own baggage. Most of them are running from their pasts or simply trying to forget them. One member of the small mercenary crew is not who he claims to be, however. When his former life collides with his current one, the team is drawn into a conflict that could have profound consequences for the future of an entire species. Captain Jason Burke struggles to find answers as the tight cohesion of his crew seems to dissolve. No matter the outcome of the mission, can Jason keep Omega Force together once the dust settles?
Each member of Omega Force carries his own baggage. Most of them are running from their pasts or simply trying to forget them. One member of the small mercenary crew is not who he claims to be, however. When his former life collides with his current one, the team is drawn into a conflict that could have profound consequences for the future of an entire species. Captain Jason Burke struggles to find answers as the tight cohesion of his crew seems to dissolve. No matter the outcome of the mission, can Jason keep Omega Force together once the dust settles?
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2014
574 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 30, 2015
Getting better...
Although the stories remain very similar they are getting a bit more interesting. Now that we've come to know the characters, as implausible as the first book was when they all came together, the author is building them up quite nicely.
Although the stories remain very similar they are getting a bit more interesting. Now that we've come to know the characters, as implausible as the first book was when they all came together, the author is building them up quite nicely.
January 30, 2017
This is a very entertaining series. I needed something like this after reading some pretty bloody and gory books lately. They were more like science fiction horror than anything else. This book and those in this series are definitely military science fiction and a joy to read. There’s some fighting in space and on the ground, but only when necessary. The Omega Force, which is not necessarily a military outfit, is a collection of like-minded aliens who have set out to help the common being when needed. They try to right some wrongs being forced on people who can’t fight back. These guys are not white knights coming to the rescue, but they will get in and get dirty when needed. They also expect to make money doing what they do and if not from those they help, then from their benefactor, Crisstof Dalton, a very wealthy individual who believes in their cause.
This time they have found out something pretty special about one of the Omega Force. Crusher, a Galvetic Warrior, is a huge alien that has the strength of several men. He stands taller than most men and has a fearsome disposition when riled. Now, he’s also know a Lord Felex Tezakar, the Guardian Archon of Galvetor, although none of the other Omega Force members knew of this until they met with three others of Crusher’s kind who were looking for him. They need the Lord Archon to return to Galvetor to hold off an internal civil war between the warrior class and the others of the gelten race. Still, Crusher or Lord Tezakar, was banished from Galvetor, and told never to return under penalty of death. So, it doesn’t look like he’s going back anytime soon, or does it?
This story has some political intrigue which, fortunately, isn’t really all that detailed or dwelled on. The warrior class feels they’ve been deemed second class citizens and ostricized to their own planet, Restaria, which is almost an exact duplicate of Galvetor. It was felt that the normal non-warrior class of geltens would feel safer if their warriors were off-planet instead of causing problems on the homeworld. Anyway, Crusher’s new found background could mean the end of his membership in Omega Force. If he returns to where he was born and raised and to the position for which he was groomed all his life, that will leave the Omega Team without a significant hole in their ranks, or will it?
The story is written really well. I like they way the characters have been created and while we don’t know everything about each one, we’re learning more and more during each book. The team finds itself severely challenged when two of it’s lesser capable members are captured by unknown aliens and subjected to some unreasonable torture. One is near death and the other is likely to follow if they are not found and rescued. The only problem is that the Phoenix, the Omega Force’s ship, was also captured. Several things going on in this book and they are all not all brought to a complete conclusion.
I’ve already bought the next book, “Omega Force: Secret of the Phoenix (Omega Force, Book Six)” and I know there is already a seventh and eighth book out there. Such great reading, it is hard not to buy all of them at once.
This time they have found out something pretty special about one of the Omega Force. Crusher, a Galvetic Warrior, is a huge alien that has the strength of several men. He stands taller than most men and has a fearsome disposition when riled. Now, he’s also know a Lord Felex Tezakar, the Guardian Archon of Galvetor, although none of the other Omega Force members knew of this until they met with three others of Crusher’s kind who were looking for him. They need the Lord Archon to return to Galvetor to hold off an internal civil war between the warrior class and the others of the gelten race. Still, Crusher or Lord Tezakar, was banished from Galvetor, and told never to return under penalty of death. So, it doesn’t look like he’s going back anytime soon, or does it?
This story has some political intrigue which, fortunately, isn’t really all that detailed or dwelled on. The warrior class feels they’ve been deemed second class citizens and ostricized to their own planet, Restaria, which is almost an exact duplicate of Galvetor. It was felt that the normal non-warrior class of geltens would feel safer if their warriors were off-planet instead of causing problems on the homeworld. Anyway, Crusher’s new found background could mean the end of his membership in Omega Force. If he returns to where he was born and raised and to the position for which he was groomed all his life, that will leave the Omega Team without a significant hole in their ranks, or will it?
The story is written really well. I like they way the characters have been created and while we don’t know everything about each one, we’re learning more and more during each book. The team finds itself severely challenged when two of it’s lesser capable members are captured by unknown aliens and subjected to some unreasonable torture. One is near death and the other is likely to follow if they are not found and rescued. The only problem is that the Phoenix, the Omega Force’s ship, was also captured. Several things going on in this book and they are all not all brought to a complete conclusion.
I’ve already bought the next book, “Omega Force: Secret of the Phoenix (Omega Force, Book Six)” and I know there is already a seventh and eighth book out there. Such great reading, it is hard not to buy all of them at once.
October 15, 2015
Another great addition to the Omega force series. This novel sees the team backing up one of there own on his home world. And he's not who he claims to be. When his life clashes it makes for an interesting story.
Having been previously alluded to, this was not an unexpected turn to the series. Personally, I feel that it's important in a series like this to delve into each character more thoroughly. The culture, and background show more of how characters tick, and this novel helps us do that for an important character.
However, I have a few misgivings. I find it annoying that the author choose to work up one of the relationships from the start, and then them get together in such and uninteresting way. Whilst the relationship has been told its been developing through previous books, there hasn't been as been much evidence of this and I was a little let down at how much he glossed over. Furthermore I found myself anticipating throughout the book for a sparring round or something now that the main character has been enhanced. Multiple times, the enhancements get away from him in hand to hand combat, but in other high risk situations (piloting), it seems to be unaffected? It doesn't make sense, and the author doesn't make sense of it.
Whilst I had a few misgivings that made me enjoy the book less, I still gave the book 3.5 stars. I rounded this up hoping the authors next book will improve further.
Having been previously alluded to, this was not an unexpected turn to the series. Personally, I feel that it's important in a series like this to delve into each character more thoroughly. The culture, and background show more of how characters tick, and this novel helps us do that for an important character.
However, I have a few misgivings. I find it annoying that the author choose to work up one of the relationships from the start, and then them get together in such and uninteresting way. Whilst the relationship has been told its been developing through previous books, there hasn't been as been much evidence of this and I was a little let down at how much he glossed over. Furthermore I found myself anticipating throughout the book for a sparring round or something now that the main character has been enhanced. Multiple times, the enhancements get away from him in hand to hand combat, but in other high risk situations (piloting), it seems to be unaffected? It doesn't make sense, and the author doesn't make sense of it.
Whilst I had a few misgivings that made me enjoy the book less, I still gave the book 3.5 stars. I rounded this up hoping the authors next book will improve further.
November 4, 2017
I truly love these Omega Force books! Every time I read one, I know I'll have a fun time, and they never disappoint! The pages fly by as if you're watching a movie! This story was very interesting because we got to learn about Crusher and his home planet - lots of fun surprises there! Probably what I love most about this series is that the bad guys are bad and get what they deserve, and the good guys are good and noble and honorable - none of the annoying gray space that so many movies and books now live in where truly awful and evil people are really just misunderstood - ugh. Can't wait to read the next in the series, especially if we do indeed learn the secret of the Phoenix! (Clearly I really like these books by my total overuse of exclamation points! LOL)
March 18, 2022
I really enjoyed this one. Jason and his crew had so many problems it was crazy. First they had to go to Crusher's home-world and break Crusher's mentor out of prison, and to find out Crusher was like a king to his people. Then Jason's ship, the Phoenix, was stolen, along with Twingo and Doc. Then Crusher was stabbed in the chest. If it wasn't one thing it was another!
Just a mention of romance between Jason and Kellea and the F-bomb was used 7 times.
As for the narration: Paul Heitsch does such a fantastic job. Everyone has their own distinct voice.
Just a mention of romance between Jason and Kellea and the F-bomb was used 7 times.
As for the narration: Paul Heitsch does such a fantastic job. Everyone has their own distinct voice.
March 8, 2018
Another OK, Fast Reading Series Story
“...Return of the Archon (Omega Force 5),” authored by Mr. Joshua Dalzelle, is another in the series, which reads quickly and is a basic, no frills, fun read.
After reading the first five (5) books of the “Omega Force” series, it is apparent that a reader will either enjoy the interplay among the mixed crew of the “Phoenix,” or if not, pretty much disdain the series. It is both a result of a reader’s individual tastes and a reader’s reading needs. If a reader just wants a basic, brisk, character based SciFi read, with humorous interplay and fast moving action, no brain power required, “Omega Force,” will fill the bill. Contrarily, if a reader wants a challenging, engrossing, high level storyline and narrative, with complexity, this isn’t it. Think of your favorite comfort food from childhood versus fine dining of adulthood; “Omega Force” is the former.
Mr. Dalzelle, does write reasonably well, though the incessant use of certain words and/or phrases (i.e. “...of course...”), baffling. How does an author, who otherwise writes well, continually fail to read his own work self-critically and edit out the obvious flaws? Better yet, how does the editorial services listed, fail book after book to address an author’s apparent blindness to these issues?
“Omega Force: Return of the Archon (OF5),” is recommended and was fully read via Kindle Unlimited.
“...Return of the Archon (Omega Force 5),” authored by Mr. Joshua Dalzelle, is another in the series, which reads quickly and is a basic, no frills, fun read.
After reading the first five (5) books of the “Omega Force” series, it is apparent that a reader will either enjoy the interplay among the mixed crew of the “Phoenix,” or if not, pretty much disdain the series. It is both a result of a reader’s individual tastes and a reader’s reading needs. If a reader just wants a basic, brisk, character based SciFi read, with humorous interplay and fast moving action, no brain power required, “Omega Force,” will fill the bill. Contrarily, if a reader wants a challenging, engrossing, high level storyline and narrative, with complexity, this isn’t it. Think of your favorite comfort food from childhood versus fine dining of adulthood; “Omega Force” is the former.
Mr. Dalzelle, does write reasonably well, though the incessant use of certain words and/or phrases (i.e. “...of course...”), baffling. How does an author, who otherwise writes well, continually fail to read his own work self-critically and edit out the obvious flaws? Better yet, how does the editorial services listed, fail book after book to address an author’s apparent blindness to these issues?
“Omega Force: Return of the Archon (OF5),” is recommended and was fully read via Kindle Unlimited.
February 10, 2023
We learn more about Crusher
The story of course has the expected amount of snarky comments & life threatening action.
While Dalzelle gets us up to date on the latest developments in the lives of Jason & Kage we are still treated to the fun of what happens when Crusher & the others are let off their leashes. After that we start finding out more about Crusher & his world as they are (of course) thrown into more chaos than even their usual level. They begin to discover that someone is behind the scenes working against them but not enough details to form more than a nebulous plan. In fact the reader is given a direct glimpse of unknown beings who are both fomenting violence as well as working directly against Omega Force but of course we’re not sure of any other details.
The story of course has the expected amount of snarky comments & life threatening action.
While Dalzelle gets us up to date on the latest developments in the lives of Jason & Kage we are still treated to the fun of what happens when Crusher & the others are let off their leashes. After that we start finding out more about Crusher & his world as they are (of course) thrown into more chaos than even their usual level. They begin to discover that someone is behind the scenes working against them but not enough details to form more than a nebulous plan. In fact the reader is given a direct glimpse of unknown beings who are both fomenting violence as well as working directly against Omega Force but of course we’re not sure of any other details.
August 26, 2018
Before you start this book, please realize it is the fifth title in the series: you will need to read the previous books in the series in order to understand the back story and the characters.
Without having a spoiler, if you enjoyed the previous books in the series you will like this one as the author concentrates on Crusher’s backstory. I picked this up for 99 cents during a Kindle promotion vs. the normal price of $3.99, and I believe I received more than $3.99 worth of entertainment value out of it: if you enjoyed the first book of this series I am confident you will like this one, also.
Without having a spoiler, if you enjoyed the previous books in the series you will like this one as the author concentrates on Crusher’s backstory. I picked this up for 99 cents during a Kindle promotion vs. the normal price of $3.99, and I believe I received more than $3.99 worth of entertainment value out of it: if you enjoyed the first book of this series I am confident you will like this one, also.
January 31, 2020
Another solid installment in the Omega Force series. We see many things come about in this book. First we learn more of the history of Crusher and see some decent development of his character. We also start to see more of the interest in the Phoenix that was hinted at by Deetz in the end of book two. We also see development of Captain Colleren as a character and the beginnings of an adult relationship. Through it all the crew grows in the face of danger and continues to have fun with each other. Another good read.
May 12, 2018
Another great story!
I have no idea how he thinks of these eliciting stories. Yes, there are some quips: editing could be better, don't end a sentence with a preposition, etc. Sci-fi requires many leaps of logic, which if exceeded cause disruption. For me, the major flaw in this regard is the time in space these men spend without much more than a hint of a male/female relationship. It's just not natural!
I have no idea how he thinks of these eliciting stories. Yes, there are some quips: editing could be better, don't end a sentence with a preposition, etc. Sci-fi requires many leaps of logic, which if exceeded cause disruption. For me, the major flaw in this regard is the time in space these men spend without much more than a hint of a male/female relationship. It's just not natural!
January 31, 2019
8/10: Excellent read, well written, fell right into the fictional world created.
“But hey! This is fun … just the two of us, flying out to meet the enemy head on.”
Oooh, this one had a lovely moment of feels near the end(ish). It almost had me giving it five stars. I'm holding out because I'm pretty sure there's some more goodness to come.
So, onto the next and fingers crossed for some tears. Mine not the macho characters!
“But hey! This is fun … just the two of us, flying out to meet the enemy head on.”
Oooh, this one had a lovely moment of feels near the end(ish). It almost had me giving it five stars. I'm holding out because I'm pretty sure there's some more goodness to come.
So, onto the next and fingers crossed for some tears. Mine not the macho characters!
June 17, 2019
Ok, this is not great writing. It's strictly paint by numbers. I doubt it takes much longer to write these books than it does to read them. But, fun characters, quick adventures, easy reads. We get more background on one important part of the squad. I wouldn't pay much for the books, but they are a pleasant enough read. Thank goodness there is also great writing out there, not just this fluff.
October 17, 2022
I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
March 13, 2019
You've been...
Thunderstruck..nice little drop in. Added just a bit of fun into an already good book and a great series so far. The series has been a great read. Stories are fairly solid and the characters are pretty well thought out. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thunderstruck..nice little drop in. Added just a bit of fun into an already good book and a great series so far. The series has been a great read. Stories are fairly solid and the characters are pretty well thought out. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 28, 2023
I am really enjoying these books and they are getting better. These books are easy escapism sci-fi. Well written and plotted like an episodic TV show. In fact I think they would make a great TV show if it were possible to get anything sci-fi made anymore that isn't super heroes. I look forward to what's coming.
November 20, 2023
Great Read.
This book was a great read. There was plenty of action right from the start , both space and land battles . I found the book hard to put down and I think this is a great series so far. I hope it keeps getting better . The future space ship or war ship is pretty amazing. Off to the next one.
This book was a great read. There was plenty of action right from the start , both space and land battles . I found the book hard to put down and I think this is a great series so far. I hope it keeps getting better . The future space ship or war ship is pretty amazing. Off to the next one.
May 22, 2017
Another gem in the series and sets up for another great adventure in the series which I am greatly looking forward for it. This book was perfect overthought it got bit boring the middle chapters but swiftly after it picked up it's pace.
now going on to the next one.
now going on to the next one.
February 5, 2018
I am really hooked on this series, kind of burning through the books. Light romance, consistent personalities, interesting missions, decent combat, not too much dialog. I'm going to be really upset when I finish.
August 11, 2018
Return of the Archon (Omega Force, #5) by Joshua Dalzelle is the latest book in my binge reading session. I got started on the Omega Force series and can't put it down. Great series, great characters and a thoroughly enjoyable read.
February 21, 2019
Very good
The OF continues to surprise and amaze. One or two editing errors. I assume that all the commas were correct cause I don't know where they go either😁. Looking forward to the next book.
The OF continues to surprise and amaze. One or two editing errors. I assume that all the commas were correct cause I don't know where they go either😁. Looking forward to the next book.
March 17, 2019
These books should be a series on Netflix
These books should be a movie...not SERIES of movies. I enjoy the characters, the missions, and to know there are other serious players in the mix....awesome
These books should be a movie...not SERIES of movies. I enjoy the characters, the missions, and to know there are other serious players in the mix....awesome
July 20, 2019
Enjoyed....
I am so enjoying the books in this series! The banter between the crewmembers is SO funny sometimes I laugh out loud!!!! And I Love that I can be reading something that can do that to me.
I am so enjoying the books in this series! The banter between the crewmembers is SO funny sometimes I laugh out loud!!!! And I Love that I can be reading something that can do that to me.
May 2, 2020
The adventure continues
This series has proven yet again its quality and strength of storyline. I enjoyed it’s originality and the unpredictable path it has taken as it keeps me guessing as to what is going to happen next.
This series has proven yet again its quality and strength of storyline. I enjoyed it’s originality and the unpredictable path it has taken as it keeps me guessing as to what is going to happen next.
December 18, 2022
Another good instalment of Omega Force
I enjoyed this book, especially as it featured around one of my favourite crew members. There were a few unanswered questions, which left a bit of mystery. Ready for book 6.
I enjoyed this book, especially as it featured around one of my favourite crew members. There were a few unanswered questions, which left a bit of mystery. Ready for book 6.
October 29, 2023
Loving this series.
I am really enjoying the Omega force series.
I have read a few lately, The Grimm books, Backyard spaceship, etc, and this series rates just as highly.
Loving Jason and his motley crew. Looking forward to the rest of the adventures.
I am really enjoying the Omega force series.
I have read a few lately, The Grimm books, Backyard spaceship, etc, and this series rates just as highly.
Loving Jason and his motley crew. Looking forward to the rest of the adventures.
July 31, 2024
Different
No that was a very interesting read, all but a civil war and the right way to see into the other’s of the Omega Force team. And alway’s keeping you interested in wanting more by how well the epilogue is written.
No that was a very interesting read, all but a civil war and the right way to see into the other’s of the Omega Force team. And alway’s keeping you interested in wanting more by how well the epilogue is written.
October 21, 2024
omega force return of the archer
Really good book like all of them keeps you very interested in and keep to reading. I’m looking forward to read the rest of the series have fun. It’s a good book.
Really good book like all of them keeps you very interested in and keep to reading. I’m looking forward to read the rest of the series have fun. It’s a good book.
October 30, 2017
Possibly the most character driven book of the series so far, the pacing was far better than the earlier books and the intrigue and plot drove the narrative. Very enjoyable.
September 9, 2018
Treason and treachery
A high ranking warrior class and senior official plan a coup. The omega force tries to figure out the plan and save the day. Off to book 6.
A high ranking warrior class and senior official plan a coup. The omega force tries to figure out the plan and save the day. Off to book 6.
September 25, 2018
Excellent
Good book. Quite the page Turner. Highly recommended to anyone that likes hard SF. Can' t wait to get started on the next boo in the series.
Good book. Quite the page Turner. Highly recommended to anyone that likes hard SF. Can' t wait to get started on the next boo in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews