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Halberd #1
Gallantry in Action
An action-packed military science fiction series from #1 Amazon Bestselling author John Spearman.
A New Captain. A Repurposed Cruiser. A Crew No One Wanted.
Fresh off a heroic tour on the frigate HMS Essex, Commander Jonah Halberd is rewarded with an unexpected promotion to Captain and an even bigger command of HMS Cumberland.
But this is no ordinary heavy cruiser.
The Cumberland is a captured enemy vessel with experimental technology, including powerful rail guns the Royal Navy abandoned a century ago.
Halberd's new command comes with more than just unfamiliar systems. His crew is a volatile mix of raw recruits fresh out of basic training and officers cast off from other ships—the ones nobody else wanted.
He must quickly whip this troubled crew into a fighting force to face the Rodinan Federation as they are sent deep into enemy territory to destroy a vital orbital station and rescue a high-profile political prisoner.
The odds are stacked against him, but good captains make good crews, and Halberd is determined to unlock the Cumberland's hidden potential.
Gallantry in Action is the first book in the thrilling Jonah Halberd Series. If you love classic military sci-fi with compelling characters, innovative tactics, and explosive space battles, you'll be captivated by John J. Spearman's fast-paced adventure.
Join HMS Cumberland on her maiden voyage and discover what it truly means to lead, to fight, and to win against impossible odds.
A New Captain. A Repurposed Cruiser. A Crew No One Wanted.
Fresh off a heroic tour on the frigate HMS Essex, Commander Jonah Halberd is rewarded with an unexpected promotion to Captain and an even bigger command of HMS Cumberland.
But this is no ordinary heavy cruiser.
The Cumberland is a captured enemy vessel with experimental technology, including powerful rail guns the Royal Navy abandoned a century ago.
Halberd's new command comes with more than just unfamiliar systems. His crew is a volatile mix of raw recruits fresh out of basic training and officers cast off from other ships—the ones nobody else wanted.
He must quickly whip this troubled crew into a fighting force to face the Rodinan Federation as they are sent deep into enemy territory to destroy a vital orbital station and rescue a high-profile political prisoner.
The odds are stacked against him, but good captains make good crews, and Halberd is determined to unlock the Cumberland's hidden potential.
Gallantry in Action is the first book in the thrilling Jonah Halberd Series. If you love classic military sci-fi with compelling characters, innovative tactics, and explosive space battles, you'll be captivated by John J. Spearman's fast-paced adventure.
Join HMS Cumberland on her maiden voyage and discover what it truly means to lead, to fight, and to win against impossible odds.
- GenresScience FictionFiction
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
757 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
John Spearman
48 books44 followersJohn Spearman is an award-winning author. In the past, he served a Latin teacher and coach at a prestigious New England boarding school. Before joining the world of academia, Spearman had been a sales and marketing executive for 25 years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 24, 2020
I'm a big fan of military space opera and I really liked this book. The characters were engaging, & the universe was interesting. The space battles were well written & the ships were well described. I'd recommend it to anyone who likes Honorverse, because it's that good (though not such an enormous series, yet).
December 24, 2024
I did not know how this book was going to pan out as it started a lot like C S Forrester's Horatio Hornblower 'Happy Return'. There was a definite Hornblower influence and as a great Hornblower fan I felt it was going to be another knock off book. Luckily I persevered and the book managed to find it own feel and story with enough divergence from the Hornblower series though retaining some of the quirks. The central character has a good foundation and the supporting characters help move the story along. A believable future where the story is set along with believable space travel and battles along with personal issues and development. I must admit I quite enjoyed the book and binge read the other 3 books in the series
January 13, 2026
Why haven't I heard of John Spearman?
This was am amazing start to what I have to believe will be a great series.
Deep, relatable characters, great military strategy, suspense, even a bit of romance for those who like that sort of thing.
Definitely can't wait to start book 2!
As is my custom, I will only review the first and the last of the series unless something changes my mind.
This was am amazing start to what I have to believe will be a great series.
Deep, relatable characters, great military strategy, suspense, even a bit of romance for those who like that sort of thing.
Definitely can't wait to start book 2!
As is my custom, I will only review the first and the last of the series unless something changes my mind.
February 12, 2025
A Ripping Space Yarn
One again John Spearman has started off a series with a first class story! He gives you a look at the characters and then proceeds to develop them. Fun to read and I cannot wait for book 2.
One again John Spearman has started off a series with a first class story! He gives you a look at the characters and then proceeds to develop them. Fun to read and I cannot wait for book 2.
January 26, 2024
Excellent job, hard to put down!
Story has the feel of a military personality and flows swiftly and smoothly. Tech is pretty good and not too detailed.
Story has the feel of a military personality and flows swiftly and smoothly. Tech is pretty good and not too detailed.
August 22, 2023
A solid 3 stars. Its worth the read if you are into Science Fiction.
Despite its many flaws and the constant feeling like you are reading a attempt to copy a David Weber/John Ringo book.
Honestly it feels like it was written by A.I that took what Weber Wrote in the Honor Harring series and slimmed it down, Changed names etc.. The plot is familiar.. The people are Familiar. The world/universe has downright spooky similarities to the Honor Harrington books. The political shenanigans etc are similar.. Even the main weapons are like they were taken from the Harrington series. IE Pod Missiles etc. The problem is .. That Weber's books draws you in and gives lots of detail about what is going on in the battle etc.. This book series is extremely short on that. Battles are a few paragraphs of text describing what happened in as little detail as possible.
The story itself isn't that bad. It just lacks..... a LOT of context and content.
Despite its many flaws and the constant feeling like you are reading a attempt to copy a David Weber/John Ringo book.
Honestly it feels like it was written by A.I that took what Weber Wrote in the Honor Harring series and slimmed it down, Changed names etc.. The plot is familiar.. The people are Familiar. The world/universe has downright spooky similarities to the Honor Harrington books. The political shenanigans etc are similar.. Even the main weapons are like they were taken from the Harrington series. IE Pod Missiles etc. The problem is .. That Weber's books draws you in and gives lots of detail about what is going on in the battle etc.. This book series is extremely short on that. Battles are a few paragraphs of text describing what happened in as little detail as possible.
The story itself isn't that bad. It just lacks..... a LOT of context and content.
November 20, 2025
I was really looking forward to reading this book. What a disappointment. Only about 10-15 percent is actually combat related. The rest is just mind numbing fluff. His date with the French model had more coverage than his first battle. It’s too bad the actual premise is good. I really don’t know how he could screw it up so badly.
July 16, 2020
Enjoyable and action packed
I found this from the recommendation of a friend. I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only criticism is that it could use a work-through with an experienced editor. Not enough to remove a star though. Great first novel!
I found this from the recommendation of a friend. I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only criticism is that it could use a work-through with an experienced editor. Not enough to remove a star though. Great first novel!
September 1, 2020
Worthy read
Bottom line, I enjoyed reading this book. The author was a little bit short on character development, and you had to suspend a bit of your belief on how fortunate our main character was in his battles. But the story clicked along and I had a good time reading it.
Bottom line, I enjoyed reading this book. The author was a little bit short on character development, and you had to suspend a bit of your belief on how fortunate our main character was in his battles. But the story clicked along and I had a good time reading it.
September 8, 2021
Off to a good start
The protagonist is relatable. Interested to see where the story goes. I am enjoying seeing strategies developing. Nice to see characters that aren't just straight up tropes.
The protagonist is relatable. Interested to see where the story goes. I am enjoying seeing strategies developing. Nice to see characters that aren't just straight up tropes.
June 1, 2020
Damon good book
This is a book I enjoyed reading. It keep me interested in the story line. And the characters. And the need to see what happening next.
This is a book I enjoyed reading. It keep me interested in the story line. And the characters. And the need to see what happening next.
September 23, 2021
I enjoyed this book
Very good story. Entertaining throughout. It is wide in scope with just about the best balance between politics, personalities an action.
Very good story. Entertaining throughout. It is wide in scope with just about the best balance between politics, personalities an action.
June 25, 2018
This is my first review on Gr in a few years, so forgive me if the details are lacking, and the analysis is somewhat lacklustre. Firstly, as you can see from the rating, I rather liked this first entry into a hopefully long running and successful series. While it is no Weber, which in some people's mind may be a good thing, it is nevertheless an excellent start to a series. As far as I know, this is the author's first novel. I haven't done much research into him, so please correct me if I'm wrong.
Now, let's see if I can still remember how to write a decent review.
On the military aspect of the novel, I can't find anything major to complain about. As someone who is neither a scientist, or a military expert, the tactics and science seem okay at first glance.
Now, let's get to the characterisation and other miscellaneous aspects of the novel. As in all military novels, people die, obviously the nature of war demands casualties. Our intrepid hero doesn't seem to be affected majorly by the casualties around him. I know as a military man, he has to have a coping mechanism when losing friends and subordinates. However, I feel a deeper look at the emotional affect of a war would enhance this novel greatly. I imagine the intent was to write an action-filled and exciting novel. But, I feel adding further depth to the experience would add further appeal to the novel.
What did slightly irritate me however was the romance which was shoehorned into the plot. While I like the fact that the romantic subplot was actually done with an end goal of character growth, I feel it was rather clunky, and could have been done better. I have nothing against romantic subplots, but I feel that it was unnecessary and rather forced.
However, as a first time author, this entry into what is looking like an excellent series is nevertheless well done. My gripes aside, I still enjoyed the story.
Hopefully, this review is coherent and understandable. Here's to a hopefully more regular participation in the community.
Now, let's see if I can still remember how to write a decent review.
On the military aspect of the novel, I can't find anything major to complain about. As someone who is neither a scientist, or a military expert, the tactics and science seem okay at first glance.
Now, let's get to the characterisation and other miscellaneous aspects of the novel. As in all military novels, people die, obviously the nature of war demands casualties. Our intrepid hero doesn't seem to be affected majorly by the casualties around him. I know as a military man, he has to have a coping mechanism when losing friends and subordinates. However, I feel a deeper look at the emotional affect of a war would enhance this novel greatly. I imagine the intent was to write an action-filled and exciting novel. But, I feel adding further depth to the experience would add further appeal to the novel.
What did slightly irritate me however was the romance which was shoehorned into the plot. While I like the fact that the romantic subplot was actually done with an end goal of character growth, I feel it was rather clunky, and could have been done better. I have nothing against romantic subplots, but I feel that it was unnecessary and rather forced.
However, as a first time author, this entry into what is looking like an excellent series is nevertheless well done. My gripes aside, I still enjoyed the story.
Hopefully, this review is coherent and understandable. Here's to a hopefully more regular participation in the community.
December 25, 2021
The only thing that pissed me off is that it ended..
And the next book is being recorded, and I was furious...
So I had to calm down before I wrote a review..
Total disclaimer again, I've known the author since kindergarten, so I'm reading all his books for free copies to review.. Grade school pics available on request.
So I also know that this is his first book..
Wait, what, THIS is the one he wrote after reading some drivel and thinking he could do better?!
Again, still, I love his stories, characters, and the romance parts dont get in the way.. Adults having some fun before they might die, then going to work, not pining and moaning? Finally!
He calls it space opera, but there's sure no soap opera stuff going on. Decent people doing their jobs competently.. I frankly love it.. Life's hard enough without throwing a Dr Smith in the mix..
I did like that the enemy they're fighting aren't shown as horrible people..
The main dude, Jonah, going home on leave to pleasantness and parties is a bit jarring.. But you know what's jarring also? Any military people going home on leave after leaving war zones..
Again I like what I'd consider realism in military space novels... It's not all Powie ! Zowie! PewPewPew!
You blast the enemy because you can't turn the ship, the battle is over, count your dead, and write a report..
These are books for those of us who preferred the movie Deep Impact over Armageddon.. I want my space soldiers quiet quick thinkers..
And the next book is being recorded, and I was furious...
So I had to calm down before I wrote a review..
Total disclaimer again, I've known the author since kindergarten, so I'm reading all his books for free copies to review.. Grade school pics available on request.
So I also know that this is his first book..
Wait, what, THIS is the one he wrote after reading some drivel and thinking he could do better?!
Again, still, I love his stories, characters, and the romance parts dont get in the way.. Adults having some fun before they might die, then going to work, not pining and moaning? Finally!
He calls it space opera, but there's sure no soap opera stuff going on. Decent people doing their jobs competently.. I frankly love it.. Life's hard enough without throwing a Dr Smith in the mix..
I did like that the enemy they're fighting aren't shown as horrible people..
The main dude, Jonah, going home on leave to pleasantness and parties is a bit jarring.. But you know what's jarring also? Any military people going home on leave after leaving war zones..
Again I like what I'd consider realism in military space novels... It's not all Powie ! Zowie! PewPewPew!
You blast the enemy because you can't turn the ship, the battle is over, count your dead, and write a report..
These are books for those of us who preferred the movie Deep Impact over Armageddon.. I want my space soldiers quiet quick thinkers..
March 9, 2026
“Gallantry in Action”, first in the 'Halberd' series, is an enjoyable read but too reminiscent of similar Space Opera novels.
Commander Jonah Halberd is a futuristic McGyver who can find a way to victory even in the most desperate circumstances.
And, as luck would have it, his successes make him a media star and hero of the people.
Which, in turn, brings him into the political arena - even though all he wants is to get back into the fray.
Unusually, he's got a private life even if his dealings with women is cack-handed to say the least.
Behind the mask he's a bundle of uncertainties where matters of the heart are concerned.
He's at his best when the missiles are firing and death awaits at every turn.
However, he does have a bad habit of losing his ships.
It's good fun but I kept thinking that I had read it before (even though I am sure that I haven't).
3 Stars.
Commander Jonah Halberd is a futuristic McGyver who can find a way to victory even in the most desperate circumstances.
And, as luck would have it, his successes make him a media star and hero of the people.
Which, in turn, brings him into the political arena - even though all he wants is to get back into the fray.
Unusually, he's got a private life even if his dealings with women is cack-handed to say the least.
Behind the mask he's a bundle of uncertainties where matters of the heart are concerned.
He's at his best when the missiles are firing and death awaits at every turn.
However, he does have a bad habit of losing his ships.
It's good fun but I kept thinking that I had read it before (even though I am sure that I haven't).
3 Stars.
February 10, 2026
Good naval sci fi - could be a little less clinical though
I enjoyed this book. It is a little “clinical” in the way it describes battles, though. There is enough detail about what the ships and/or fleets are doing. Not a lot of detail about what the characters are doing, thinking, or feeling during battles, which I think is a flaw. This isn’t a history book; it’s a novel. There is better character development when fighting isn’t happening, although almost exclusively between the MC and women he comes across. There is almost no exploration of male friendships or personalities. One thing I liked was the inclusion of strong leadership “soft” skills that the Captain employs with his crew. I will read the next installment.
I enjoyed this book. It is a little “clinical” in the way it describes battles, though. There is enough detail about what the ships and/or fleets are doing. Not a lot of detail about what the characters are doing, thinking, or feeling during battles, which I think is a flaw. This isn’t a history book; it’s a novel. There is better character development when fighting isn’t happening, although almost exclusively between the MC and women he comes across. There is almost no exploration of male friendships or personalities. One thing I liked was the inclusion of strong leadership “soft” skills that the Captain employs with his crew. I will read the next installment.
July 10, 2020
This rating does not really have anything to do with quality as shown by the positive ratings. It is a strictly military story which does not interest me. I did a lot of skipping with the battle scenes only cause of my own indifference to this type. The writing itself was well done and if I was offered another type of story by this author I would try it.
May 2, 2023
4 stars. This was a pretty good book. Nothing fancy, deep, or complicated, just a straightforward space-based military adventure. The action is continuous. It reminded me of a lighter version of Honor Harrington; in fact, some of the plot points were very reminiscent of those in Honor Harrington novels. I;ll read the next in series.
March 12, 2026
Held my attention all the way through...
Very good story line and many very thought provoking battles..
Big and lesser engagements.
Several - Unexspecteds - thrown in along the way....
Excellent characters - through out...
Lot happens in book one.
I'm moving on to book 2 now... Happy reading continues......
Charles R
Very good story line and many very thought provoking battles..
Big and lesser engagements.
Several - Unexspecteds - thrown in along the way....
Excellent characters - through out...
Lot happens in book one.
I'm moving on to book 2 now... Happy reading continues......
Charles R
February 19, 2022
Lots of action and some interesting characters.
We have another space war story with some different political systems at war. The main characters are believable and likable. Going to book 2. Good read!
We have another space war story with some different political systems at war. The main characters are believable and likable. Going to book 2. Good read!
February 22, 2022
Action filled and well written!
Excellent space opera novel well written and obviously decently researched. This book stands out clearly from many others. Strongly recommended. Hobby indeed. Well done Jake!
Excellent space opera novel well written and obviously decently researched. This book stands out clearly from many others. Strongly recommended. Hobby indeed. Well done Jake!
January 4, 2023
We are proud to announce that GALLANTRY IN ACTION by John Spearman has been honored with the B.R.A.G.Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG.
December 11, 2025
HMS
That was fun. An excellent naval military novel. Action,adventure,romance,politics and the Royal Navy and being in the UK very appealing to me,but loved the characters and work building forward to the sequals.First time reading this author but not the last time
That was fun. An excellent naval military novel. Action,adventure,romance,politics and the Royal Navy and being in the UK very appealing to me,but loved the characters and work building forward to the sequals.First time reading this author but not the last time
January 6, 2026
Great War story
Interesting cast of characters with a realistic description of their training and experience as they become competent warriors with subplots of heroes and cowards. Interesting descriptions of space warfare tactics.
Interesting cast of characters with a realistic description of their training and experience as they become competent warriors with subplots of heroes and cowards. Interesting descriptions of space warfare tactics.
February 2, 2026
enjoyable book
Interesting characters. Good plot line. Some of the romantic subplots seem a little unrealistic. The lead character is an amazing tactician who uses ideas from anyone and everyone on his vessel. He is generous with his praise
Interesting characters. Good plot line. Some of the romantic subplots seem a little unrealistic. The lead character is an amazing tactician who uses ideas from anyone and everyone on his vessel. He is generous with his praise
February 26, 2026
My guess is that the author took the Jeffrey Haskell Grimm series, ran it through AI, and generated this book. The plot is remarkably similar, the characters are shadows of the Grimm series characters, and the technologies are basically the same. Except this book is nowhere near as compelling.
February 28, 2026
hail Britannia, Britannia rules the galaxy!
What a crock. Basically it’s Master and Commander in the next millennium. Not particularly well written and the UK centric version of history is not credible. King Edward VIII and £ pounds sterling as the monetary system. Seriously?
What a crock. Basically it’s Master and Commander in the next millennium. Not particularly well written and the UK centric version of history is not credible. King Edward VIII and £ pounds sterling as the monetary system. Seriously?
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November 12, 2020fascinating !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 27, 2021
Really enjoyed
I really do like these type of stories, that encompass such values of Honor and Integrity. It was well done for one who reads purely for enjoyment.
I really do like these type of stories, that encompass such values of Honor and Integrity. It was well done for one who reads purely for enjoyment.
February 4, 2022
Solid
Good solid military sci fi . likeable and hate able characters . plot seemed well written I will be reading the next in the series
Good solid military sci fi . likeable and hate able characters . plot seemed well written I will be reading the next in the series
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews