Scars of Rebellion

by Anthony J Melchiorri

He’ll defy the Overlords. He’ll risk the rebellion. To save one life, he might doom them all.

The forces of Rising Dawn are scattered across the stars. Someone has betrayed the rebellion. Surrounded by suspicion and deceit, Jace Hawthorne must decide who he can still trust, including their newest an Eldra’kaarn warrior resurrected from the ruins of a long-dead alien civilization.

When Jace reunites with his brother and rebel leader, Connor Hawthorne, he receives a mission that will change everything. The Revenant must return to Jace’s homeworld to infiltrate a Lumina Dominion research facility—one conducting horrific experiments in service to the Overlords.

But buried within that fortress lies something far more personal than alien technology or military secrets. One who Jace despereately hopes to save. His mother.

Haunted by loss and hunted by those he once trusted, Jace is about to discover that every victory demands a sacrifice. Sometimes the darkest enemy is the one you carry inside.

Scars of Rebellion is the third book in the Shadow of War series. If you love military space opera with mysterious spaceships, alien technology, underdog rebellions, and heroes forged in the fires of war, you’ll be riveted by this tale of humanity’s fight for survival—perfect for fans of J.N. Chaney, M.R. Forbes, and Red Rising.

Genres: Science Fiction

450 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 8, 2026

Reviews

[Travis]

Scars of Rebellion is already published in ebook form, but I guess since the audible version isn't released yet, I have to select something for where I got the book, and kindle unlimited isn't on the list, so ....
Amazon, fix your buggy system.
In any case, this is probably the best book in the series so far. There is some serious progress made towards the freeing of humans, though there's no real tangible results just yet, but they're coming to be sure. Liked this one, and I'm certainly looking forward to the next one in the series, which looks like it will be in April.

[Juliana]

The story arc of this series where humanity and other alien races are subjugation by a tyrannical race continues as rebellion breaks out and starts organizing. The protagonist, Jace, a young human who has been sucked into this rebellion, continues to evolve due to microbes he was contaminated with in the first installment.

Each book is objective oriented as are the subsequent books. The external objectives continue throughout as does Jace's evolution which is gritty and visceral. Beautiful balance and scripted dialogue and narration. An exquisite page turner packed with action and unpredictable twists.

[Michael Keller]

The Son of the Lion and the Rising Dawn take the fight to the Overlords

Jace Hawthorne, the Son of the Lion of Sevron, is leading Rising Dawn against the Overlords and their minions. Particularly, they organize an attack on an Overlord station containing several thousand prisoners including Jace's mother. The station is run by Petrov, who killed Jace's father, the legendary Lion of Sevron. Rescue the prisoners, save his mother, kill Petrov. Jace has his priorities, now all he has to do is live long enough to meet his goals. This amazing book is a fantastic read!

[Aaron Rhoads]

This series continues to get better and better. Anthony’s writing is suspenseful and engaging while providing a touch of comedic relief that brings levity to his stories. Jace is a compelling but realistic (well as realistic as a sci fi character can be) protagonist and the supporting characters are well developed.

[Lynn Hallbrooks]

This third book in the ongoing space-faring, alien versus humans, science fiction series did not disappoint. As a matter of fact, it upped its previous game by a factor of 10. The clear overall message, "We're tired of taking what you've been giving, Overlords. When we figure out how to make you pay for your actions, watch out."

[Michael Hackerott]

Worth Reading

I like a lot about this book and series. However, i am struggling with the “hero”. His sole motivation is anger and rage which results in REALLY bad decisions and actions. HOWEVER, no matter how foolish he acts it all works out in the end. I find the character really frustrating. However, i still recommend the book and series.

[Ken Lerner]

the best science fiction of war and earning freedom

Can’t put it down! Reading long into the night
Winning against all odds against traitors and monsters in a future world of chaos

[Emmanuel Obi]

Worth the read

This series got me hooked and its not letting up. Truly an interesting takeover space oparas and very original storytelling. Looking forward to the next book in the series as the adventure progresses.

[Ray Schaeffer]

saga continues

As the rebellion continues. Our hero and accomplices search for more of the alien microbes. Red Dawn has more recruits .

[Gary Davis]

Excellent

I'm always impressed with an author who can keep the conversations going on and on. Wow,how does his mind work?

[Brian Everson]

Recognition

Thanks to the author we have another great book that is action packed and filled with subtle hints of things that could come that mankind can truly rise out of a dirt

[Kurt Eggert]

excellent written could not put the book down

My one hour reading time I always set aside each day with this book never was less than 2 1/2 hours

[Stacey Lotshaw]

Best book of series so far

More interaction between characters, less jumping from one battle to another with no letup. Great story concept, to little character interaction.

[Beth]

Great series

For me, these three books were page turners! Hopefully there are more books coming in the near future. Will be looking for continuation series!

[Anthony Harrison]

Anther great book

Can't wait for book four. Already have it pre-ordered. Should be a great conclusion and interesting battles. There are lots of ways it could go, but the author comes up with unexpected twists.

[Ron Pendley]

Available on Kindle