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Valley of Fire #1
Misplaced
Eric and his sister escaped a bloody past, finding refuge with a starship salvage yard owner who straddles the line between criminal and honorable. Now, after twelve years of hauling scrap, Eric is ready carve his own path. The streets don’t let go so easily, nor does the Solarian Empire. As Eric steps into manhood, his talents draw dangerous eyes—jealous rivals and shadowy forces who’d rather see him buried than rising. Two years after the fall of the Solarian Empire, the paranoia of a hunted life lingers, but Eric’s done running. In a kingdom where power burns bright and betrayal simmers, he’ll learn that standing tall means facing the fire head-on.
Misplaced —a tale of grit, loyalty, and defiance, set in the expansive universe of Wolfhounds. This is the full novel, compiled from the serials with extra bonus material included!
Misplaced —a tale of grit, loyalty, and defiance, set in the expansive universe of Wolfhounds. This is the full novel, compiled from the serials with extra bonus material included!
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2025
About the author
John Van Stry
49 books365 followersI've had a very varied life. I grew up in New York, on Long Island.
I went to school to become an Engineer, then joined the Air Force.
After that I worked first in Robotics, then in Aerospace as a Flight Test Engineer. I moved into the medical fields, then into more Technical markets working for a number of high tech companies where I became a Contractor.
I used to own and raise big cats. I love motorcycles and old cars. I'm a pilot and former martial arts instructor. I'm a fan of the Reno Air Races.
Then there's the stuff I'm not supposed to talk about, but that's another story.
I've seen a lot of interesting stuff go by, met a lot of interesting, wonderful, strange, or sometimes just psychotic people. I've had the opportunity to work on some truly game changing technologies. And while I've had some very bad things happen to me in my life, I've never let it stop me.
Keep smiling.
-John
I went to school to become an Engineer, then joined the Air Force.
After that I worked first in Robotics, then in Aerospace as a Flight Test Engineer. I moved into the medical fields, then into more Technical markets working for a number of high tech companies where I became a Contractor.
I used to own and raise big cats. I love motorcycles and old cars. I'm a pilot and former martial arts instructor. I'm a fan of the Reno Air Races.
Then there's the stuff I'm not supposed to talk about, but that's another story.
I've seen a lot of interesting stuff go by, met a lot of interesting, wonderful, strange, or sometimes just psychotic people. I've had the opportunity to work on some truly game changing technologies. And while I've had some very bad things happen to me in my life, I've never let it stop me.
Keep smiling.
-John
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 1, 2026
This is a very entertaining Science Fiction book from John Van Stry for Raconteur Press. It's set in John Van Stry Wolfhounds universe, but absolutely can be read as a standalone.
Raconteur Press has done an excellent job of cornering the "Mens Fiction" side of the publishing market. And this book might just be the best example of that. This book is very much a "Male Fantasy" book for Science Fiction in the same way that Jack Reacher kind of is in the thriller space. Not that this book is Fantasy (its clearly Sci-Fi), but it is about a character who in many ways is a "male fantasy" of what their life could be like: interesting locales, cool action sequences, lots of attractive women who are interested in our main character.
The story about Eric and his search for independence in the first third of the book was really entertaining, but then he joins up with a privateer group for the next two thirds. I worried this book would follow some Mil-Sci-Fi traps of focusing too much on description and military minutiae. However, John Van Stry instead focuses on the character and story so much that the book just breezed by.
The book has enough worldbuilding to hint at a larger universe, but never feels too descriptive or too nebulous. I really enjoyed the balance Van Stry did of relating what information on worldbuilding was needed and omitting what wasn't necessary.
I really enjoyed the interactions of Eric and Dar, as well as his relationship with Mariella, which is kind of creepy and sweet at the same time. (Although I will say that Dar's relationship with Candace in this book is just downright creepy and concerning).
The book may be 300 pages, but it absolutely is a quick read. I believe Raconteur tries to keep their books closer to 60,000-80,000 words, and this book I'm pretty sure fits that description.
There was a lot of R-rated material here, mostly relating to sexual content throughout. Van Stry isn't quite as descriptive as some of his Fantasy-Sci-Fi counterparts, but it was very much a large part of te story.
Overall, I really liked the story quite a bit. I'm very interested to see if book 2 is as entertaining, and how Stry handles the Military Sci-Fi elements as well as the political elements in it (not political as in worldview, but political as in political thriller). Overall, I'll give this book an 8.5 out of 10!
Raconteur Press has done an excellent job of cornering the "Mens Fiction" side of the publishing market. And this book might just be the best example of that. This book is very much a "Male Fantasy" book for Science Fiction in the same way that Jack Reacher kind of is in the thriller space. Not that this book is Fantasy (its clearly Sci-Fi), but it is about a character who in many ways is a "male fantasy" of what their life could be like: interesting locales, cool action sequences, lots of attractive women who are interested in our main character.
The story about Eric and his search for independence in the first third of the book was really entertaining, but then he joins up with a privateer group for the next two thirds. I worried this book would follow some Mil-Sci-Fi traps of focusing too much on description and military minutiae. However, John Van Stry instead focuses on the character and story so much that the book just breezed by.
The book has enough worldbuilding to hint at a larger universe, but never feels too descriptive or too nebulous. I really enjoyed the balance Van Stry did of relating what information on worldbuilding was needed and omitting what wasn't necessary.
I really enjoyed the interactions of Eric and Dar, as well as his relationship with Mariella, which is kind of creepy and sweet at the same time. (Although I will say that Dar's relationship with Candace in this book is just downright creepy and concerning).
The book may be 300 pages, but it absolutely is a quick read. I believe Raconteur tries to keep their books closer to 60,000-80,000 words, and this book I'm pretty sure fits that description.
There was a lot of R-rated material here, mostly relating to sexual content throughout. Van Stry isn't quite as descriptive as some of his Fantasy-Sci-Fi counterparts, but it was very much a large part of te story.
Overall, I really liked the story quite a bit. I'm very interested to see if book 2 is as entertaining, and how Stry handles the Military Sci-Fi elements as well as the political elements in it (not political as in worldview, but political as in political thriller). Overall, I'll give this book an 8.5 out of 10!
May 22, 2025
Great addition to the Wolfhounds 'verse!
I read the serialized version of Misplaced as they came out, and just reread the novel version.
This book gets better on the second read through. You can see more of how JVS weaves the elements together, and how he sets up not only this story but also those to come.
Wolf is a worthy hero in a world of questionable people, many corrupted bu power.
I'm looking forward to the next Valley of Fire book!
Disclaimer: I also write for Raconteur Press, but was not involved in this series as any other than a fan.
I read the serialized version of Misplaced as they came out, and just reread the novel version.
This book gets better on the second read through. You can see more of how JVS weaves the elements together, and how he sets up not only this story but also those to come.
Wolf is a worthy hero in a world of questionable people, many corrupted bu power.
I'm looking forward to the next Valley of Fire book!
Disclaimer: I also write for Raconteur Press, but was not involved in this series as any other than a fan.
March 30, 2025
Soothe great read
I really enjoy the works and characters brought to life through this and the wolfhound books. Can't wait for the next one.
I really enjoy the works and characters brought to life through this and the wolfhound books. Can't wait for the next one.
July 4, 2025
poor writing imo
I rolled my eyes out of my head at a lot of this cringy writing. Plus there are quite a bit of illogical writing and decisions. Little gems like “ Don’t ever pull your pistol unless you use it to kill. Never pull it to warn anyone, not ever. When you pull your pistol the fight is on and you both know it.” Next sentence: “ Go ahead and use your pistol to warn someone, as long as they are a little bit away from you, but only warn once! Never twice! Then it’s killing time.” That’s one example of the premium thinking in this book. Also, the MC is a scumbag. His friends are scumbags. His sister and and pedo guardian turned bed partner is a scumbag. Everyone on the ship he worked on is a scumbag. There is literally nobody worth rooting for in this book. I want my time back.
I rolled my eyes out of my head at a lot of this cringy writing. Plus there are quite a bit of illogical writing and decisions. Little gems like “ Don’t ever pull your pistol unless you use it to kill. Never pull it to warn anyone, not ever. When you pull your pistol the fight is on and you both know it.” Next sentence: “ Go ahead and use your pistol to warn someone, as long as they are a little bit away from you, but only warn once! Never twice! Then it’s killing time.” That’s one example of the premium thinking in this book. Also, the MC is a scumbag. His friends are scumbags. His sister and and pedo guardian turned bed partner is a scumbag. Everyone on the ship he worked on is a scumbag. There is literally nobody worth rooting for in this book. I want my time back.
July 4, 2025
Great story!
Like most of his books, the author presents a main character that edges on the hyper-masculine, close to the traditions created by classic greats such as Louis L'Amore. These stories harken back to the old west, when men were men and women were just as tough, if not tougher.
While not so mindful of keeping the science in science fiction, he doesn't try to create fake physics to explain the technology, it just is. However, his ability to incorporate the proper tactics and combat into the story, regardless of the tech involved makes you believe that its all the real deal. Well done!
Like most of his books, the author presents a main character that edges on the hyper-masculine, close to the traditions created by classic greats such as Louis L'Amore. These stories harken back to the old west, when men were men and women were just as tough, if not tougher.
While not so mindful of keeping the science in science fiction, he doesn't try to create fake physics to explain the technology, it just is. However, his ability to incorporate the proper tactics and combat into the story, regardless of the tech involved makes you believe that its all the real deal. Well done!
April 15, 2025
Gifted Orphan Formulaic, Stilted, and Sexually Obsessed Drivel
“Misplaced” is the all too familiar gifted late teen orphan formulaic, with stilted and ceaseless repetition (aka page-fill) that is saturated by a sexual obsession with rape, murder, swinging, and sundry other non-graphic narrative by Mr.Van Sty, the author. It’s all very juvenile, not in the sense of being young adult, rather it’s the immature deviance fantasies of another scifi genre/ military sub genre author on display.
“Misplaced” is the all too familiar gifted late teen orphan formulaic, with stilted and ceaseless repetition (aka page-fill) that is saturated by a sexual obsession with rape, murder, swinging, and sundry other non-graphic narrative by Mr.Van Sty, the author. It’s all very juvenile, not in the sense of being young adult, rather it’s the immature deviance fantasies of another scifi genre/ military sub genre author on display.
April 10, 2025
Just good reading
Well written as are all of the authors work. This takes place in the Wolfhounds' universe, where the MC and his sister are orphaned nobles during the PRC coup. The story was engaging as the MC went from a path of crime to privateer. Its unknown at this time who his parents were, but they named him "Wolf". Its also unclear who his paramour is, just that she's a very high ranked noble.
I look forward to the next installment of both series.
Well written as are all of the authors work. This takes place in the Wolfhounds' universe, where the MC and his sister are orphaned nobles during the PRC coup. The story was engaging as the MC went from a path of crime to privateer. Its unknown at this time who his parents were, but they named him "Wolf". Its also unclear who his paramour is, just that she's a very high ranked noble.
I look forward to the next installment of both series.
September 27, 2025
Excellent Story
Another great tale from John Van Stry. I know, if you've read his work before it doesn't surprise you.
Good characters and world building. Excellent story with a good plot lines and a rollercoaster ride. You get the highs and lows and a good emotional engagement with the MC. He doesn't start Over Powered and grows. Looking forward to seeing where the series goes!!
Another great tale from John Van Stry. I know, if you've read his work before it doesn't surprise you.
Good characters and world building. Excellent story with a good plot lines and a rollercoaster ride. You get the highs and lows and a good emotional engagement with the MC. He doesn't start Over Powered and grows. Looking forward to seeing where the series goes!!
March 11, 2026
Rousing new series
Alternate universe, advanced technology, AI tech, interstellar societies
Eric and his older sister, Candace, barely escaped with their lives, and they end up in the care on a salvage yard owner who's also street savvy. Candace decides their guardian is the man she wants. Eric, gets into trouble, and so it's arranged for his to join the crew, using part of his middle name as his new alias. Wolf. Excellent editing. Enjoyed.
Alternate universe, advanced technology, AI tech, interstellar societies
Eric and his older sister, Candace, barely escaped with their lives, and they end up in the care on a salvage yard owner who's also street savvy. Candace decides their guardian is the man she wants. Eric, gets into trouble, and so it's arranged for his to join the crew, using part of his middle name as his new alias. Wolf. Excellent editing. Enjoyed.
March 23, 2026
Sophomoric effort
"Royal orphan abandoned to a blue collar life that leads to crime which forces him to abandon his sister and guardian" is an effective trope. The "Hot stud bangs all the hotties, runs into a runaway royal hottie and wins her over with violence" was a bit much for even my sci fi pulp fiction tastes. Too, very limited character development put further damper on my reading enjoyment. I wish the author well and hope he keeps plugging away at his craft.
"Royal orphan abandoned to a blue collar life that leads to crime which forces him to abandon his sister and guardian" is an effective trope. The "Hot stud bangs all the hotties, runs into a runaway royal hottie and wins her over with violence" was a bit much for even my sci fi pulp fiction tastes. Too, very limited character development put further damper on my reading enjoyment. I wish the author well and hope he keeps plugging away at his craft.
Read
March 29, 2025Another great series on the way!
This is going to be another hit! I hope there is more than just a trilogy here. He has plenty of world building done to make followup series with relatives or descendants(much like shannara does). the two series in this universe have alot parallels between characters development and storyline.
This is going to be another hit! I hope there is more than just a trilogy here. He has plenty of world building done to make followup series with relatives or descendants(much like shannara does). the two series in this universe have alot parallels between characters development and storyline.
April 12, 2025
This was good! Edge of your seat, hold onto your hat, very good!
Entertainment from the get-go, I had no complaints about the editing, the plot, or the action. Very very well written book but I cannot wait for the sequels. I'm going to have to read the wolfhound series 1st as I weighed. Enjoy! Add up to
Entertainment from the get-go, I had no complaints about the editing, the plot, or the action. Very very well written book but I cannot wait for the sequels. I'm going to have to read the wolfhound series 1st as I weighed. Enjoy! Add up to
April 4, 2026
A fun romp in an established universe
This is a fun successor to the Wolfhounds series, and gives the reader a better view of the planets and nations outside of the Solarian Empire.
The tech is a bit better fleshed out. More detailed descriptions, for those of you who enjoy such things.
It's an interesting take on what government sponsored privateers might look like.
This is a fun successor to the Wolfhounds series, and gives the reader a better view of the planets and nations outside of the Solarian Empire.
The tech is a bit better fleshed out. More detailed descriptions, for those of you who enjoy such things.
It's an interesting take on what government sponsored privateers might look like.
March 30, 2025
This is a great read!
If you enjoyed the Wolfhound series, you will definitely enjoy this book, and I look forward to the remaining books in the series! The characters are interesting, and very well crafted and believable.
If you enjoyed the Wolfhound series, you will definitely enjoy this book, and I look forward to the remaining books in the series! The characters are interesting, and very well crafted and believable.
April 13, 2025
Great addition to this Universe 👏
Love this author's world building, the last Series was more top down structure of story telling. Where this Series starts out from the bottom looking up, I am eager to see what the tale goes to. Can not wait for the NEXT book to come out.
Love this author's world building, the last Series was more top down structure of story telling. Where this Series starts out from the bottom looking up, I am eager to see what the tale goes to. Can not wait for the NEXT book to come out.
April 16, 2025
Another great installment in the Wolfhound Universe
I love this authors works. This is another great book, and I can't wait to read the next in the series. I like the perspective it gives from outside the empire, but still references all the history from the Wolfhound series.
I love this authors works. This is another great book, and I can't wait to read the next in the series. I like the perspective it gives from outside the empire, but still references all the history from the Wolfhound series.
April 20, 2025
Excellent side arc
As is typical of the author, this first of a new arc in the Wolfhounds universe is well written, with good characterizations, great story, and interesting people. Recommended!
As is typical of the author, this first of a new arc in the Wolfhounds universe is well written, with good characterizations, great story, and interesting people. Recommended!
April 21, 2025
what valley?
Where the main series was giant mech/spaceship battles this was grounded combat of leash and blood. Sort felt let down has I gave to preconceived notions of what was going to happen, I hope the next book will be better.
Where the main series was giant mech/spaceship battles this was grounded combat of leash and blood. Sort felt let down has I gave to preconceived notions of what was going to happen, I hope the next book will be better.
April 22, 2025
Enjoyed
Loved the characters and their progression through the book. Plot develops in an interesting way and stays consistent without being predictable. Looking forward to the next book!
.
Loved the characters and their progression through the book. Plot develops in an interesting way and stays consistent without being predictable. Looking forward to the next book!
.
April 28, 2025
A great start to a new series in the Wolfhound universe
Nice beginning, good character development for a first book. Looking forward to the continuing story and learning more about the characters history.
Nice beginning, good character development for a first book. Looking forward to the continuing story and learning more about the characters history.
June 11, 2025
What a great read!
I have loved this author The 1st wolfhounds Story! This 1 is in the same universe Makes for Makes for good reading there's action there Makes for good reading action I hi Makes for good reading action I highly recommend it
I have loved this author The 1st wolfhounds Story! This 1 is in the same universe Makes for Makes for good reading there's action there Makes for good reading action I hi Makes for good reading action I highly recommend it
June 12, 2025
Fun adventure
Something about this universe makes the story fun. Barbaric and futuristic, while the characters are a bit dark and primitive at times, the is always something happening. It you like men's adventure stories, this series is off to a great start.
Something about this universe makes the story fun. Barbaric and futuristic, while the characters are a bit dark and primitive at times, the is always something happening. It you like men's adventure stories, this series is off to a great start.
October 5, 2025
Captivating.
Started slow, but grew into a page turner. Good, well drawn characters, good plot lines, gets gripping. I want more from this author and thinking I will enjoy future works.
Started slow, but grew into a page turner. Good, well drawn characters, good plot lines, gets gripping. I want more from this author and thinking I will enjoy future works.
November 14, 2025
An excellent read. I'm into this adventure.
This is a well written tale that pulls you in and makes you a part of believable, exciting universe. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
This is a well written tale that pulls you in and makes you a part of believable, exciting universe. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
February 10, 2026
Loyalty Personified
A great read that truly underscores the importance of all interactions one does. Regardless of any circumstances encountered honoring and loyalty are required if one is to succeed.
In addition to these important qualities, this was a great SciFy novel.
A great read that truly underscores the importance of all interactions one does. Regardless of any circumstances encountered honoring and loyalty are required if one is to succeed.
In addition to these important qualities, this was a great SciFy novel.
March 27, 2026
Good read
It’s been a while since I’ve picked up anything from this author. The story starts a bit slow but gives the MC a solid foundation in the end. The book just kept improving and I look forward to reading more. Recommended.
It’s been a while since I’ve picked up anything from this author. The story starts a bit slow but gives the MC a solid foundation in the end. The book just kept improving and I look forward to reading more. Recommended.
April 16, 2026
My least favorite read of the year. Story was unexciting, and did not keep my attention. I did not like the ending of the book, on the last ship. The whole premise was very far fetched for me, even for “science fiction “.
March 27, 2025
Great read
Enjoyed the book, it has great pacing. Looking forward to more in this universe. Like seeing it from a different perspective
Enjoyed the book, it has great pacing. Looking forward to more in this universe. Like seeing it from a different perspective
March 31, 2025
A great new series
It's a great news series in the wolfhounds universe. Really looking forward to book 2 hopefully it won't be a long wait.
It's a great news series in the wolfhounds universe. Really looking forward to book 2 hopefully it won't be a long wait.
April 11, 2025
fun space opera
The characters and situations bear considerable resemblance to those in the Wolfhounds series but I found that I didn’t mind at all.
The characters and situations bear considerable resemblance to those in the Wolfhounds series but I found that I didn’t mind at all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews