Mistress Of The Ages (The First Empress, Book 3)

In Her Name #9

by Michael R. Hicks

In the final volume of THE FIRST EMPRESS Trilogy, the Kreelan warrior priesthoods, once charged with teaching and preserving the tenets of the Way, have sown the seeds of their own destruction by allying themselves with the Dark Queen and letting loose the ancient evil of Ka’i-Nur.

All that stands against the looming darkness is young Keel-Tath and a handful of surviving priests and priestesses of the Desh-Ka. Battered and bloodied from their own brief, vicious civil war, their honor and swords are now bound to the Child of Prophecy, come what may.

Genres: Science Fiction, Science Fiction Fantasy

438 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 10, 2015

About the author

Born in 1963, Michael Hicks grew up in the age of the Apollo program and spent his youth glued to the television watching the original Star Trek series and other science fiction movies, which continues to be a source of entertainment and inspiration. Having spent the majority of his life as a voracious reader, he has been heavily influenced by writers ranging from Robert Heinlein to David Weber, and many in between. Having finally retired from government service, Michael and his lovely wife, along with their Siberan cat, Nina, are enjoying life as expats in France.

Reviews

[Lisa Hapney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this book since I read the last page of the second book in The First Empress trilogy. As expected, the author did a fantastic job with this story. I’ve fallen in love with the universe and the characters he has created. Not only did I enjoy reading this story, but it couldn’t have come at a better time. I was really looking for some distraction and it fit the bill very nicely as it whisked me away to the Kreelan empire to watch as Keel-Tath prepared to confront her nemesis. It was also intriguing enough to drag me away from my summer fun for which I have to give it some credit. When a story starts traveling with me everywhere I go, I consider it a win.

In this story we get a lot of action as one would expect from a warrior race. This is a sweeping epic that casts you from one side of the universe to the other in the blink of an eye. Needless to say a lot of characters die given that Kreelan society is entirely a warrior society that follows The Way, the Kreelan code of conduct. The Dark Queen’s forces are blessed with overwhelming numbers as Keel-Tath’s forces prepare to respond to the threat offered in this latest installment of the series. I was surprised and pleased with the turns the story took, but don’t want to give away too much since we’re so far along in the series. Pretty much everything was well done. The foreshadowing for the very end wasn’t as subtle as I had expected and I had a pretty good idea what was going to happen with that, but it did leave the doorway open for another book in this quite enjoyable series.

Michael Hicks has done a great job. There’s battle, strategy, plotting, trickery, love and much more to keep you interested. I was pleased with the story and the outcome of the arc as a whole. I can’t wait to see what the next story in this epic series brings to the table. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Michael R. Hicks gives away the first book of the trilogies that start this series so if you want to check it out, it won’t cost you a thing.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book of a Trilogy. And that trilogy is one of 3 that set out the history of the Kreelan race. The first Trilogy actually tells the final story and includes Kreelan interaction with humanity. The second trilogy is a sort of prequel that tells the 'first contact' story of human with Kreelan. This final trilogy goes further back to explain why the Kreelan are the way they are when humanity encounters them.

I liked the first (though latest chronologically) trilogy the best; it got well into the characters and developed them thoroughly. The second was mostly space battles -- well told, but not my favorite thing. This one was, overall, more 'anthropological' regarding the Kreelan species.

It's been some time since I read the first two, though, and was a bit lost early on -- trying to recall which characters were good/bad and who'd done what. I would have liked a short 'what has gone before' summary. Lacking that, I'd say definitely reread the previous two before starting this one to get your bearings.

That said, it's a well told story that wraps things up well. Lots of battles, some fairly gory. For one who'd read the previous (though chronologically later) trilogies, I sort of knew where it was going. But a good wrap up to the overall story arc, though probably the weakest of the three.

[Tracy A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel was an excellent conclusion to its trilogy! It was packed with action, intrigue, honor, commitment, love, heartbreak, resignation, and resilience. Michael Hicks deserves the highest praise for Mistress of the Ages. I feel now like I need to re-read his original trilogy in this series!

[Mary Whitehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series

This series is addictive! I’m sorry I have now read all nine books and there are no more. For anyone who loves science fiction or fantasy, this series is a must. Be sure to read them in order to get full enjoyment from the series. Michael Hicks has constructed a strange and wonderful world which is totally engrossing. As a lifelong avid book reader who has red many good and not so good books, I can say with perfect honesty that this is one of the best sf series I have ever read

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't stop reading and re-reading

If you have read the first 6 books in thus long series, then you won't be disappointed here. Everything I ever wanted to know about Keel-taths beginnings and how the curse of her children came about is answered in this series. It is worth starting over chronologically once having read this book. I did, several times! I hope 'they' do not ruin this with a movie. Enjoy!

[Deryk Allan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book from Michael R Hicks, the final one in the nine book series, for any fans of sci-fi/fantasy these books are a must read, and a very easy read for those just starting out in this genre, these last three books can either be read last in the series or first, as the story jumps back 100,000 years to the first empress, i'd personally recommend reading them last.

[Allison Minjares · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting if you have to work do not pick up this book!

It took reading this book to get over Reza and his betrayal of earth. To look at the Kreelan as something more than cockroaches. Whether your a fan of scifi or not you will love the entire series. It has amazing love stories, horror, blood and guts.

[Martin Nunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have now completed all 9 books. I wasn't sure if the prequel (7, 8 & 9) would work as I kinda knew how it would end. But it was just as good as the first 6 books about the Human /Dreela wars. A blend of sci-fi and fantasy that sucks you in and gives you characters that you can believe in. Absolutely brilliantly written! Buy these books!!
Tin.

[Gary Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best

I have read all 9 of the books in the "in her name" series twice! And the best thing I can say is that I agree with all the glowing reviews that others have written. I only wish the author could continue on with this incredible civilization and tell us what and where they evolved to.

[Scott Lockwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Marvelous Series!

Michael Hicks "In Her Name" novels are a marvelous mixture of science fiction and sword & sorcery, with plenty of heroes and villains, bravery and sacrifice, twists and turns! Highly recommended!

[Chris Clausen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic space series

I have enjoyed all of the books in this series! It is fast paced and very exciting. I can't wait to finish this one so I can continue on to the next one.

[Bob Gage · Rating 1 out of 5]

Horrible ending

Words cannot describe my anger with your horrible ending I did not read all these books to wind with sadness at the end happy ending would have been great I will not waste my time on you in the future Mr Hicks

[H. T.]

I loved this series as a whole but this final book is incredibly boring to me. I read half and had to stop. I stopped caring about what happened to the characters because I never felt a connection to them.

[John Combs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome

Very exciting and full of action and drama. After reading all 8 of the other books in the series this was the best. I'm waiting now for #10 with bated breath.

[Gary Weinman · Rating 4 out of 5]

the 9th and final book in the series. I really enjoyed all of these books. My only complaint is I felt like the ending was a little rushed.

[Sunwyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Astonishing

This is the worthy climax of an amazing story. But I must admit I liked the first two trilogies better.

[Katherine Anne Lyons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantasy at its best

This series of nine books was addictive.. Shame that the first two books that started the tale came last though

[Jessica L Sherle · Rating 5 out of 5]

outstanding series

Such an outstanding series. A wonderful universe with powerful themes. Mr Hicks you are a terrific writer. I hope you continue.

[David Tooley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every book in this series. Actually all 3 series.

[Andrew Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been quite a wait for this, the final book in the Kreelan saga. Michael R. Hicks took a break to write a different series but he was still thinking of and creating this final book. Although the wait has been agonising for me, now I have finished it I am glad that he took his time.

It is clear that the author has taken care over this story and that nothing has been rushed. The previous book left us with the central figure, Keel-Tath, in a place of temporary safety and with a small band of loyal followers during a small lull of the war.

Having read the other, previous series' of In Her Name books, we knew the eventual outcome however it is the telling of HOW the end of this series came that is the joy. To put it another way it is the journey, not necessarily the destination that has made me happy.

The author managed to paint vivid pictures with his descriptions of places and events. The characters during to life from the pages and although not of them are human, he manages to allow us to empathise with them and feel every anguish and savour every joy that they feel.

The story holds twists and turns at every point, opening up unexpected vistas. Side plots are seamlessly joined with the main story, filling this satisfying story even further.

To me, this entire saga, from First Contact through to this, Mistress Of The Ages, is one of the finest science fiction stories ever written. Each character along the way has been believable, even if we know of them for just a few pages. I think that a party of this realism comes from Michaels' courage to kill off main characters when we least expect. On top of this, descriptions of characters, ships and places while being detailed are also succinct and never stop the story from progressing. The story never stops progressing, keeping you hooked, wanting to know what will happen next. A masterclass in how science fiction should be.

If you only ever read one science fiction series, make sure it's this one, you won't be disappointed.

[Jen C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable! I have to go through my nook now and make sure I've read all that are available in the series. I will wind up re-reading the rest again this year in chronological order. I originally started on the series as a whole because it was a free book through Nook and I liked the cover because sometimes that's just how I pick books to read.

I started that first book and yes it was a bit weird and sort of slow for me to get interested being a bit of a wary reader. But, after the first couple chapters I was hooked and it was great to read a free book offering that wasn't rife with spelling errors and other syntax or grammatical errors that run rampant in some other books. It flowed well and it was captivating. I actually gave up sleep to continue ahead a few more chapters. An act of craziness as a parent of three young children.

This is the third book in the trilogy of the first empress, Keel Tath. It is well written. Characters are well fleshed out. I do wish there was a bit more description for a few minor things but my imagination has done a fair job of creating decent mental images of scenery and creatures. I don't wish to spoil the books for anyone. Give them a try. Be open-minded. Give this sci-fi series a shot. You've got nothing to lose other than a few hours of hopefully enraptured quietude. Or, kids screaming at you for another grilled cheese after a bout of night terrors because you're a parent and quiet time to read doesn't exist. ;-)

[Mike Nemeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Hicks lured me into this series with his first book introducing the Kreelan race of unbelievably bloodthirsty women warriors. He just has a way of turning up the intensity of his storytelling when he describes the conflict that arises in the followers of a very complex and honor-based religion that is parts magic and high-tech. "Mistress of the Ages" is the third and final novel explaining the legend of Keel-Tath, the white-haired oddity who commanded the entire future of the Kreelan race to be free of males. This is the final installment in the "In Her Name" pantheon. At least for now. Keel-Tath is still beset by challenges and death at every turn. That she figures out a way to survive the onslaught of the Dark Queen, who has taken over all society with the exception of the Settlements, the distant planets colonized by the blue-skinned humanoids, is miraculous. Keel-Tath must make sacrifices, however. And they're not good. Nothing is optimal for the young warrior. And because the story is pre-ordained (this is a prequel), readers know how it ends. But Hicks injects it with enough sentiment and character to make readers care. He explains just how the Kreelan religion works and how powerful the sense of honor in the alien race can be.

[Shenika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just wow. Of course, if you've read the rest of the In Her Name books, you know how this story must end. The journey, though, makes this book a must-read.

The world-building was fantastic. When Keel-Tath and company were running through the desert, I got parched. That's how well it was described.

I love Keel-Tath. She wasn't perfect; she made mistakes. She had moments of self-doubt. She had to learn and grow. She stood strong, never sacrificing her beliefs. Even when departing the Way would have made life easier-would have given her victory, she still stayed true to the Way that she fought so hard to protect.

As I said, those who've read the rest of the In Her Name series know how this story ends. Reading it here still had a powerful impact. All I could think was "wow". it was beautifully done.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse you Michael Hicks for giving me what I asked for. Thank you for being such and excellent story teller. I loved this story and I hated it, (that it had to end). LOVE Keel-Tath and wanted her story which you did such a fantastic job of spinning but now I am so sad that it is over. I tortured myself, reading only a small amount each day because I didn't want it to end, but finally couldn't stand it any more and had to finish it. I loved the way you wove in the crystal at the end and the poem, oh heck I loved the whole thing! I've said this before and I truly mean it, you are one of my favorite authors! Right up there with Dean Koontz and Stephen King. Keep it up and I will keep buying them.

[Lizzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

i enjoyed the series but felt this book was not as tight as rhe first two. To me this was a combination of sci fi, mythology, and magic. not enough of the first and too much of the latter.

While this series explains the behavior of the Kreelans in the other two series and the source of many of theur beiefs and culture, getting there seemed to meander more in this conclusion to this trilogy. The plot moved slowly. The writing, especially as to the emotions between and growth of the characters was excellent.

11/26/15 I have since read all the books in the three trilogies and enjoyed them immensely. Reaching the end left me feeling sad that it was over. A question to the author indicates there will be future stories in this universe, which makes me very happy.

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been impatiently awaiting the arrival of this book. Now that I've devoured it, I'm sad the journey is over. This was a fantastic conclusion to an incredible series of books. It will be a series that I will no doubt reread again numerous times in future. Thank you, Michael R. Hicks, for delivering such a great story to us.

*Edit - Michael has confirmed that this is not the last tale in the "In Her Name" series. I'm eager to continue the journey.

[Paul Martin Schofield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant conclusion to an action packed trilogy about the rise and struggle of the first empress of the Kreelan Empire. Even though you know how it will end, the story is referred to in Final Battle the last book of the Redemption Series, Hicks' storytelling keeps you glued to each page. You want to read faster but you also hope it will never end. Alas, this great drama finally concludes and I only hope the author will continue his fantastic stories of this incredible alien race, the Kreela.

[Winter · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 Stars

This one took me a while to get into, but around half-way my interest picked up, and I ended up not being able to put it down the last pages. His best books are the ones that blend action with relations, which I think is actually what he writes best. This book has romance and tragedy and the things that he write's so extremely well.

[Laura Calamuci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second time reading this book.

I have been reading sci-fi and fantasy since I was 8 years old. While I grew up on Heinlein and Asimov and some Clarke too I have now added Hicks to my faces. This book goes in a new direction in sci-fi with some fantasy in it. I shall re-read the other books in the collection.

[Mike Foreman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the whole series and glad to have it finally finished. many elements of the story came together and the ending was OK. I thought that the author really wanted to wrap it up and finish it a little too fast. The rationale for all of the events at the end were strained.