What do you think?
Rate this book
Dirigent Mercenary Corps #1
Officer-Cadet
Another installment in the explosive new series of future warfare features a young soldier expelled from Earth, who seeks to prove his worthiness in the Dirigent Mercenary Corps, the most demanding and refined of military outfits. Original.
281 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
29 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 8, 2007
This book proves that it is possible to write a barely decent novel with cookie cutter characters, but an adequate plot and get published. This series proves that there is a male equivalent to fluffy chick lit. If you like that sort of thing then read the Dirigent Mercenary Corps series.
Still the series is a quick read, and while I occasionally like fluffy paranormal romance, this series is the first to fit my fluffy space opera fix (good space opera isn't fluffy in case you're curious). But if I were recommending good space opera, I'd suggest Elizabeth Moon, Lois McMaster Bujold, John Ringo, and David Weber way before this guy.
Still the series is a quick read, and while I occasionally like fluffy paranormal romance, this series is the first to fit my fluffy space opera fix (good space opera isn't fluffy in case you're curious). But if I were recommending good space opera, I'd suggest Elizabeth Moon, Lois McMaster Bujold, John Ringo, and David Weber way before this guy.
March 31, 2024
Maybe that was the plan. Get me so mad that I’d forget to be scared.
Full Metal Jacket does Agincourt. Mercenary infantry space opera procedural. (see below) Scanty space. Little science fiction. Lots of imagined mercenary tactics. OCR faults disrupted the text.
Conscious thought was virtually absent. His training carried him and his comrades—as it was meant to do.
Ridiculous premise: interstellar mercenary infantry supported only by orbit-based shuttles. No tactical air, reconnaissance, airlift and medivac, close air support, or counter air. (Published in 1998 before drones came into their own.)
“How do you feel?” “I’ve felt better.”
Full Metal Jacket does Agincourt. Mercenary infantry space opera procedural. (see below) Scanty space. Little science fiction. Lots of imagined mercenary tactics. OCR faults disrupted the text.
Conscious thought was virtually absent. His training carried him and his comrades—as it was meant to do.
Ridiculous premise: interstellar mercenary infantry supported only by orbit-based shuttles. No tactical air, reconnaissance, airlift and medivac, close air support, or counter air. (Published in 1998 before drones came into their own.)
“How do you feel?” “I’ve felt better.”
August 12, 2020
This is the first book in the Dirigent Mercenary Corps series by Rick Shelley. This book is pretty standard fare for this type of Military Science Fiction. A young man about to graduate from a military academy with honors is suddenly kicked out and has to pursue a career in the military in another fashion. The main twist in this story is that the young man, Lon Nolan, gets himself kicked out on purpose. He then proceeds to leave Earth and join the Dirigent Mercenary Corps. The Dirigent Mercenary Corps is a band of mercenaries who hire out to settle disputes on planets all-around human space. He is thrown into the thick of it on his very first assignment but survives to continue his career in the following books in this series. A fairly good read but I probably won't read the rest of this series.
December 29, 2021
So first off, I just want to point out that I bought this book way back in 1998 and aside from one failed attempt back then, did not read it until now. This thing's been chunking around with me for 23 years!
Review-wise, I was originally going to give it 3 stars, but realized that that would be overly-generous, so I'm going to settle on somewhere between 2.7 - 2.8 stars. I didn't hate it, but it also isn't making onto any "Best of" list. The book just has too many issues to climb above that.
First off, the book felt dated even for something published in 1998 and I've long suspected that it was written much, much earlier, like maybe the early 90s or even the 80s. For example, the computers are referred to as "compunits" and the description evokes those table-mounted computers from the original Star Trek.
Second, is that Rick Shelley really, really wanted the reader to know that the Dirigent Mercenary Corps is a 100% all beef, baby. There are no women mercenaries, something that Shelley drives home by repeatedly using the word "men" just in case you hadn't already figured out that the DMC is a sausage fest. Indeed, there are almost no women in the book at all. The one that does get mentioned is the wife of one of the mercs. It's just odd and funny because I believe at around the time Officer-Cadet was published, other military science fiction writers were including women in their books. That's one of the other reasons why I think this book is much older than its pub date.
Sidenote: For whatever reason, Shelley decided that that aforementioned merc should be a cuckhold who is not only fine with that the fact that his friends have had sex with his wife (who works as a waitress and sex worker) and encourages the main character, Lon Nolan, to do the same.
Yeaaah...
ANYWAYS, the other problem with the book is that for being one of the top mercenary companies in the galaxy, the Dirigent Mercenary Corps. is...not great. They have their own planet, but keep their entire military force located in one base. That's real convenient for anyone who attacks them, because all they'd have to do is hit one target instead of having to contend with multiple.
They also don't seem to have any ground vehicles because they don't take any with them to the planet they're deployed to. The only transportation they did bring are shuttles that have to pull the dual role of transports and close-air support. So what we get is a lot of walking. A lot of walking. Pretty much a good chunk of the book is just Lon and his unit traveling from place to place on foot. It's just incomprehensible that a military force would show up without ground vehicles.
I'm not sure they even brought machine guns either. They have rifles, grenade launchers, and beamers (directed energy weapons), but I don't recall there being any mention of machine guns. Same with sniper rifles. Really, it's almost like these guys showed up with no heavy weapons whatsoever and were like "YEAH! LET'S DO THIS! YEEHAW, MOTHERTRUCKERS!"
If I'm being honest and I'm trying not to come off as a jerk because the man's been dead for like 20 years, but I don't think Rick Shelley really knew up from down when it came to knowing how a military works.
One final gripe is that we don't find out the motivation of the rebels the MC and the rest of the mercs have been fighting until the end of the book, when it's revealed that they're the remnants of a hyper-fanatical religious cult that tried to take over the Earth, who were dumped on the planet after they lost. It felt like it was tacked on because Shelley needed to throw something in there.
Overall, Officer-Cadet was just okay. I didn't hate it, but I'm likely never going to re-read it again.
Review-wise, I was originally going to give it 3 stars, but realized that that would be overly-generous, so I'm going to settle on somewhere between 2.7 - 2.8 stars. I didn't hate it, but it also isn't making onto any "Best of" list. The book just has too many issues to climb above that.
First off, the book felt dated even for something published in 1998 and I've long suspected that it was written much, much earlier, like maybe the early 90s or even the 80s. For example, the computers are referred to as "compunits" and the description evokes those table-mounted computers from the original Star Trek.
Second, is that Rick Shelley really, really wanted the reader to know that the Dirigent Mercenary Corps is a 100% all beef, baby. There are no women mercenaries, something that Shelley drives home by repeatedly using the word "men" just in case you hadn't already figured out that the DMC is a sausage fest. Indeed, there are almost no women in the book at all. The one that does get mentioned is the wife of one of the mercs. It's just odd and funny because I believe at around the time Officer-Cadet was published, other military science fiction writers were including women in their books. That's one of the other reasons why I think this book is much older than its pub date.
Sidenote: For whatever reason, Shelley decided that that aforementioned merc should be a cuckhold who is not only fine with that the fact that his friends have had sex with his wife (who works as a waitress and sex worker) and encourages the main character, Lon Nolan, to do the same.
Yeaaah...
ANYWAYS, the other problem with the book is that for being one of the top mercenary companies in the galaxy, the Dirigent Mercenary Corps. is...not great. They have their own planet, but keep their entire military force located in one base. That's real convenient for anyone who attacks them, because all they'd have to do is hit one target instead of having to contend with multiple.
They also don't seem to have any ground vehicles because they don't take any with them to the planet they're deployed to. The only transportation they did bring are shuttles that have to pull the dual role of transports and close-air support. So what we get is a lot of walking. A lot of walking. Pretty much a good chunk of the book is just Lon and his unit traveling from place to place on foot. It's just incomprehensible that a military force would show up without ground vehicles.
I'm not sure they even brought machine guns either. They have rifles, grenade launchers, and beamers (directed energy weapons), but I don't recall there being any mention of machine guns. Same with sniper rifles. Really, it's almost like these guys showed up with no heavy weapons whatsoever and were like "YEAH! LET'S DO THIS! YEEHAW, MOTHERTRUCKERS!"
If I'm being honest and I'm trying not to come off as a jerk because the man's been dead for like 20 years, but I don't think Rick Shelley really knew up from down when it came to knowing how a military works.
One final gripe is that we don't find out the motivation of the rebels the MC and the rest of the mercs have been fighting until the end of the book, when it's revealed that they're the remnants of a hyper-fanatical religious cult that tried to take over the Earth, who were dumped on the planet after they lost. It felt like it was tacked on because Shelley needed to throw something in there.
Overall, Officer-Cadet was just okay. I didn't hate it, but I'm likely never going to re-read it again.
January 30, 2024
"Officer-Cadet" by Rick Shelley: A Captivating Journey of Leadership and Growth
"Officer-Cadet" by Rick Shelley is a compelling military science fiction novel that explores themes of leadership, camaraderie, and the challenges of training to become an officer. The book follows the journey of protagonist Lon Nolan as he navigates the rigorous training at the Space Academy, facing both physical and mental challenges.
One of the strengths of "Officer-Cadet" is its well-crafted characters. Rick Shelley brings Lon Nolan to life with a blend of vulnerability and determination. Nolan's internal struggles and growth throughout the story make him a relatable and dynamic protagonist. The supporting cast of characters, including fellow cadets and instructors, adds depth to the narrative, each contributing to the overall richness of the story.
The novel excels in depicting the intensity and complexity of military training. The author's attention to detail creates a vivid portrayal of the Space Academy's demanding curriculum, realistic simulations, and the intricate dynamics among the cadets. This realism adds authenticity to the narrative, immersing the reader in the challenges faced by those striving to become officers in a futuristic space military setting.
The pacing of the plot is well-executed, with a balanced mix of training sequences, interpersonal dynamics, and moments of action. Shelley skillfully builds tension throughout the story, keeping readers engaged and invested in Nolan's journey. The book's structure allows for a gradual exploration of Nolan's character, ensuring a satisfying and meaningful resolution.
The world-building in "Officer-Cadet" is commendable. Rick Shelley crafts a futuristic universe with believable technology and societal structures. The attention to detail in describing the space academy, spacecraft, and interstellar settings enhances the overall reading experience, providing a backdrop that feels both imaginative and plausible.
While the novel boasts numerous strengths, there are areas where it could have been more ambitious. Some plot elements and character arcs, though well-executed, might feel somewhat predictable to readers familiar with the military science fiction genre. Exploring more unconventional aspects could have elevated the narrative and added an extra layer of complexity.
Despite this, "Officer-Cadet" is an engaging and thought-provoking read. Rick Shelley's writing style is accessible yet evocative, making the book suitable for both seasoned science fiction enthusiasts and those new to the genre. The themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the human experience are universal, transcending the futuristic setting and resonating with readers on a personal level.
In conclusion, "Officer-Cadet" earns a solid four-star rating. Its strengths lie in well-developed characters, immersive world-building, and a compelling depiction of military training. While it could have pushed the boundaries of its genre a bit further, the novel remains a noteworthy addition to the realm of military science fiction, leaving readers eager to explore the subsequent chapters of Lon Nolan's journey.
"Officer-Cadet" by Rick Shelley is a compelling military science fiction novel that explores themes of leadership, camaraderie, and the challenges of training to become an officer. The book follows the journey of protagonist Lon Nolan as he navigates the rigorous training at the Space Academy, facing both physical and mental challenges.
One of the strengths of "Officer-Cadet" is its well-crafted characters. Rick Shelley brings Lon Nolan to life with a blend of vulnerability and determination. Nolan's internal struggles and growth throughout the story make him a relatable and dynamic protagonist. The supporting cast of characters, including fellow cadets and instructors, adds depth to the narrative, each contributing to the overall richness of the story.
The novel excels in depicting the intensity and complexity of military training. The author's attention to detail creates a vivid portrayal of the Space Academy's demanding curriculum, realistic simulations, and the intricate dynamics among the cadets. This realism adds authenticity to the narrative, immersing the reader in the challenges faced by those striving to become officers in a futuristic space military setting.
The pacing of the plot is well-executed, with a balanced mix of training sequences, interpersonal dynamics, and moments of action. Shelley skillfully builds tension throughout the story, keeping readers engaged and invested in Nolan's journey. The book's structure allows for a gradual exploration of Nolan's character, ensuring a satisfying and meaningful resolution.
The world-building in "Officer-Cadet" is commendable. Rick Shelley crafts a futuristic universe with believable technology and societal structures. The attention to detail in describing the space academy, spacecraft, and interstellar settings enhances the overall reading experience, providing a backdrop that feels both imaginative and plausible.
While the novel boasts numerous strengths, there are areas where it could have been more ambitious. Some plot elements and character arcs, though well-executed, might feel somewhat predictable to readers familiar with the military science fiction genre. Exploring more unconventional aspects could have elevated the narrative and added an extra layer of complexity.
Despite this, "Officer-Cadet" is an engaging and thought-provoking read. Rick Shelley's writing style is accessible yet evocative, making the book suitable for both seasoned science fiction enthusiasts and those new to the genre. The themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the human experience are universal, transcending the futuristic setting and resonating with readers on a personal level.
In conclusion, "Officer-Cadet" earns a solid four-star rating. Its strengths lie in well-developed characters, immersive world-building, and a compelling depiction of military training. While it could have pushed the boundaries of its genre a bit further, the novel remains a noteworthy addition to the realm of military science fiction, leaving readers eager to explore the subsequent chapters of Lon Nolan's journey.
May 7, 2019
Shelley, Rick. Officer-Cadet. Dirigent Mercenary Corps. No. 1. Ace, 1998.
Rick Shelley was a specialist in military science fiction, but you cannot tell it from this book. The plot chugs along at an unremittingly slow pace, giving us detailed descriptions of battles we have no emotional reason to care about. The characters and story line are modeled—as are many military science fiction novels—on C. S. Forester’s Hornblower saga. At one point, our hero adopts the hands-clasped-behind-the-back pose both he and Hornblower use to hide their tension from the crew. Unfortunately, the protagonist does not develop as Hornblower always does. We learn almost nothing of his emotional life or what her learns from the battles in which he is engaged. Fan that I am of the genre, I cannot recommend this book. They story seems phoned in.
Rick Shelley was a specialist in military science fiction, but you cannot tell it from this book. The plot chugs along at an unremittingly slow pace, giving us detailed descriptions of battles we have no emotional reason to care about. The characters and story line are modeled—as are many military science fiction novels—on C. S. Forester’s Hornblower saga. At one point, our hero adopts the hands-clasped-behind-the-back pose both he and Hornblower use to hide their tension from the crew. Unfortunately, the protagonist does not develop as Hornblower always does. We learn almost nothing of his emotional life or what her learns from the battles in which he is engaged. Fan that I am of the genre, I cannot recommend this book. They story seems phoned in.
May 8, 2017
I feel I like Shelley's universe more then I like a lot of his work, and I wish that more would have been done with it. Still, this is a fun series, and with a space mercenary army traipsing around the galaxy you see a lot out of a decently designed universe, full of jerks shooting at each other for somewhat non-stupid reasons. I just wish that Shelley had dug more into his universe, and really allowed us to see more of it, rather then bite sized chunks at a time.
Anyways, this novel is a fun romp that you can jump through in an afternoon or two and leave feeling entertained.
Anyways, this novel is a fun romp that you can jump through in an afternoon or two and leave feeling entertained.
June 20, 2017
I wish I could give 3.5 stars...
Nice space-marine mercenary type combat book. I'm happy to read the next one in the series when I can find it. Not much character development, but the reluctant hero works for this installment.
Nice space-marine mercenary type combat book. I'm happy to read the next one in the series when I can find it. Not much character development, but the reluctant hero works for this installment.
April 22, 2019
3.5 star
February 23, 2019
This was very dry and hard to get through. Also, I’ll be honest, I was really hoping this was about John Cadet and his quest to become an officer.
September 28, 2015
I was browsing through the shelves of a local charity shop when 'Officer Cadet' caught my eye. The premise is of a young trainee officer in a Mercenary Corps sent out on his first campaign and having to learn a lot about battle and about leadership. I thought I'd give it a go.
It's never going to be a classic, but its enjoyable enough and doesn't take itself too seriously. The best way for me to describe 'Officer Cadet' is as 'Sharpe' set in the future. The following books - with titles such as 'Captain' & 'Major' - obviously suggest following protagonist Lon Nolan through the ranks of Dirigent's Mercenary Corps.
I had ordered the second book in the series even before I had finished this one!
It's never going to be a classic, but its enjoyable enough and doesn't take itself too seriously. The best way for me to describe 'Officer Cadet' is as 'Sharpe' set in the future. The following books - with titles such as 'Captain' & 'Major' - obviously suggest following protagonist Lon Nolan through the ranks of Dirigent's Mercenary Corps.
I had ordered the second book in the series even before I had finished this one!
November 10, 2011
(Original review, Sep 2005)
A young cadet on his first tour faces a not-very-mysteriously-motivated civil conflict. Slogging ensues. Unlike most military SF, this tale has neither moral quandaries, exciting tech, bloody melodrama, nor philosophical musings. Or, for that matter, interesting characters, compelling plotting, or much reason to finish it, let alone pick up the succeeding editions of the Dirigent Mercenary Corps series. Not bad, just numbingly pedestrian and routine in both tone and story.
A young cadet on his first tour faces a not-very-mysteriously-motivated civil conflict. Slogging ensues. Unlike most military SF, this tale has neither moral quandaries, exciting tech, bloody melodrama, nor philosophical musings. Or, for that matter, interesting characters, compelling plotting, or much reason to finish it, let alone pick up the succeeding editions of the Dirigent Mercenary Corps series. Not bad, just numbingly pedestrian and routine in both tone and story.
April 20, 2009
I must confess to never having read about mercenaries in anything other than a holy negative light before now, but this one changes that around entirely. They are, if not the good guys, just doing their jobs, and doing them professionally and fulfilling their contracts. Grist for the mill, maybe - not exactly a five-star sci-fi wonder, but enjoyable enough to at least keep the remaining titles on the shelf for a rainy day.
July 17, 2012
First in a series which folows the young mercenary in the future in his career as an officer.
Unlike a lot of sci fi military books, this one doesn't depend on a lot of high tech weaponry. Battle is about on the same level with Viet Nam era based on my readings as I have no military background. Enjoyable. I will complete the series over time.
Unlike a lot of sci fi military books, this one doesn't depend on a lot of high tech weaponry. Battle is about on the same level with Viet Nam era based on my readings as I have no military background. Enjoyable. I will complete the series over time.
November 16, 2015
Not a bad book as Military SciFi books go but not an incredible book. You end up liking the protagonist but you feel as if the author was just going through the motions of telling a story. It lacks any form of social commentary. If it had that I think it would be a better story. Maybe the rest of the series has that.
Read
March 12, 2009to read
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews