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A Captain's Crucible #1
Flagship
Captain Jonathan Dallas, commodore of Battle Unit 72, investigates the disappearance of a military research vessel on the fringes of known space. When the unit is ambushed by a threat that endangers not only the fleet but also all of humanity itself, Jonathan must somehow find the resources to fight back. Cut off from Central Command and faced with impossible odds, can Jonathan overcome his demons to save humanity and, more importantly, can he save himself? where captains are made. Or broken.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2016
174 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Isaac Hooke
102 books508 followersIsaac Hooke is the best-selling author of the Ethan Galaal series of thriller novels, as well as the SF-themed ATLAS trilogy. When Isaac isn't writing, publishing, and blogging, he's busy cycling and taking pictures in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He has a degree in Engineering Physics.
You can follow Isaac on Twitter @IsaacHooke and his website http://IsaacHooke.com.
You can follow Isaac on Twitter @IsaacHooke and his website http://IsaacHooke.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 27, 2017
My original FLAGSHIP audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Captain Jonathan Dallas is a complicated fellow. He lives with the nagging guilt that he could have saved a dying mountain climber and holds a simmering hatred for his admiral who wouldn’t help. Now he must face the moral dilemma of following orders to destroy an entire star system and its billions of human inhabitants or face down his past demons and do what he knows is right.
An unknown force has attacked the armada. They could be their human enemies, but more likely an alien force never encountered before. If alien, humanity will need everyone united to stand up to even have a fighting chance.
The action is nearly continuous throughout the novel as star-ships collide. It is a military Sci Fi novel after all and fans shouldn’t be disappointed. Set several years after the Atlas series, an older, wiser and bitter Rade Gallal makes a cameo appearance. Captain Dallas and his first officer are clearly the main characters though, and their friendship is the sub-plot that gives the story a human element.
The novel is performed by Peter Berkrot, who does an excellent job. Like all great narrators, he adds his interpretation to the drama. You will either love his performance or find it intrusive, but that’s why you listen to audiobooks and not computer generated readings. In this listener’s opinion, he added greatly to the story once you get used to his style.
You may enjoy listening to the Atlas series as a prequel to Flagship, but it is by no means necessary to its enjoyment. This is a new series and stands on its own. If you enjoy space battles with a little human drama thrown in for effect, you should put this one on your short list. It is a good listen with plenty of action. You’ll be looking forward to book two when available.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
Captain Jonathan Dallas is a complicated fellow. He lives with the nagging guilt that he could have saved a dying mountain climber and holds a simmering hatred for his admiral who wouldn’t help. Now he must face the moral dilemma of following orders to destroy an entire star system and its billions of human inhabitants or face down his past demons and do what he knows is right.
An unknown force has attacked the armada. They could be their human enemies, but more likely an alien force never encountered before. If alien, humanity will need everyone united to stand up to even have a fighting chance.
The action is nearly continuous throughout the novel as star-ships collide. It is a military Sci Fi novel after all and fans shouldn’t be disappointed. Set several years after the Atlas series, an older, wiser and bitter Rade Gallal makes a cameo appearance. Captain Dallas and his first officer are clearly the main characters though, and their friendship is the sub-plot that gives the story a human element.
The novel is performed by Peter Berkrot, who does an excellent job. Like all great narrators, he adds his interpretation to the drama. You will either love his performance or find it intrusive, but that’s why you listen to audiobooks and not computer generated readings. In this listener’s opinion, he added greatly to the story once you get used to his style.
You may enjoy listening to the Atlas series as a prequel to Flagship, but it is by no means necessary to its enjoyment. This is a new series and stands on its own. If you enjoy space battles with a little human drama thrown in for effect, you should put this one on your short list. It is a good listen with plenty of action. You’ll be looking forward to book two when available.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
April 1, 2016
Superficial space opera
I wanted to like this story however the characters were were too superficial. Unrelated facts to the current gist of the storyline were introduced over and over again to be related to some future decision made by a character or explain a set actions by the main characters. A decent story plot but lack of character development and simplistic storyline left me wanting more from the book.
I wanted to like this story however the characters were were too superficial. Unrelated facts to the current gist of the storyline were introduced over and over again to be related to some future decision made by a character or explain a set actions by the main characters. A decent story plot but lack of character development and simplistic storyline left me wanting more from the book.
January 18, 2017
2.5 étoiles pour cette flotte confrontée à un mystérieux ennemi Une bataille spatiale crédible me semble t il, des AI et des équipages de vaisseaux plongés dans la virtualité Une éternelle guerre latente entre les descendants de USa et Chine Bref de quoi réjouir l'amateur de space opéra sauf que les personnages sont plats et même les séquences les plus difficiles m'ont laissé indifférent L'épisode télépathe m'a même fait mourir de rire ... Dommage car je suis plutôt bon public pour tout ce qui est space opéra Désolé Capitaine Jonathan, lire la suite de vos aventures ne sera pas ma priorité
June 12, 2016
I’ve really read a bunch of great military science fiction books lately. This one is from a, new to me, author. I think I’ll be reading a lot more his books. “Flag Ship” starts off a little different in that the Captain Jonathan Dallas of the United Systems Ship (USS) Callaway is contemplating mutiny! Yeah, he’s part of a task force headed by his former friend and now Admiral Hartford Knox. They are on a mission which up until recently was highly classified and very dangerous to not only this fleet, but to humanity. Admiral Knox’s orders told him to send a planet-killer bomb through a warp gate into the sun that supported a Sino-Korean system. That explosion would definitely kill that sun and most likely about 5 billion Sino-Koreans.
There would definitely be a galactic war as a results of that attack. Even though the Sino-Korean Navy would have been severely reduced in strength, they would have a gigantic reason to fight back against the United Systems. Whether they would use planet-killers is probably a certainty. Humanity might not survive this terrible war. Captain Dallas wasn’t all that certain that the bomb needed to be used. He was certain, that is, until this recent event in which he is involved. He has a small part of the task force that has been checking out a couple of moons orbiting one of the gas giants in this system. One of his ships has failed to report in and he’s going to go look for it. Several recon drones have been launched and none have came back from the back side of this moon.
When he finally gets his ship around to the back side, he spots some wreckage and then a swarm of unknown alien spacecraft begin what appears to be an attack run on his small fleet. One of his ships is suddenly sliced length-wised completely in to. So he has a fight on his hands while he attempts to sling-shot the USS Callaway and the rest of his ships around the gas giant and back towards the main fleet. He looses several of his escorts but manages to close with the main part of the fleet heading towards the launch gate where they are to release the planet-killer. In the meantime, Captain Dallas has brought his XO/First Officer, Commander Robert Cray, into his confidences about his planned mutiny. Captain Dallas now feels more than ever that it will be the absolute wrong thing to kill billions of humans now that they have positively identified and hostile alien threat in this system. There is a slipstream gate leading directly back to Primus-3 which then leads back to the Sol System. If they fail to protect this gate or fail to protect the gate in the Primus-3 system, Earth and the Solar System could be completely destroyed. He doesn’t believe that it’s in the best interest of the United Systems or humanity to be fighting an internal war while also trying to fight an unknown alien. Therefore, he’s trying to convince other Captains within the fleet that Admiral Knox’s mission is wrong and they should not follow the Admiral. He plans to bring up a vote of No-Confidence at the next Captain’s meeting which would then remove the Admiral from command. He’s now got the backing of his XO, who also doesn’t want to destroy 5 billion humans just on that principle alone.
When they report back to the fleet their encounter with the aliens, the Admiral doesn’t believe their story! Even with some captured material from one of the enemy’s fighter craft, the Admiral believes it’s the Sino-Koreans who have gotten wind of his mission and are trying to stop them. Even with video evidence that the ships just encountered by the USS Callaway are alien enemies! So, Captain Dallas asks for a vote of No-Confidence which fails miserably! The Admiral found out about Captain Dallas’ plans through the USS Callaway’s AI, Maxwell. He then arrest Captain Dallas and has him placed in the brig. His XO is left in position since they have no positive proof that he was not just following orders, but the Admiral doesn’t trust him enough to put him in command.
The a day out from the launch point for the planet-killer, the aliens do attack the fleet in force. They have very powerful weapons especially when close in and decimate the fleet pretty quickly. They also detonate the planet-killer ship which effectively ends that mission although the mission ended when the Admiral’s flag ship was destroyed with all hands aboard. The senior most Captain in the smaller fleet is now Captain Jonathan Dallas. The USS Callaway becomes the Flag Ship and the story really begins!
A lot going on, that’s for sure. I like the writing. It’s pretty direct and to the point. There’s also not a lot of external stuff going on although the space battles take a little thinking to get an idea of what’s going on. There are civilians aboard the USS Callaway, mostly scientist and maintenance types, plus some of the crews family is aboard to make the extremely long voyages more tolerable. What I don’t understand is how the United Systems organization think that killing 5 billion humans would remotely be OK with anybody! They’re not even at war with the Sino-Koreans! That kind of scenario would be cause for any starship Captain to question why he was involved in such a heinous crime when they weren’t even at war. We’re supposed to be the good guys right?
Ok, so on to book two, which I’m happy to say is readily available. I’m already well into “Test of Mettle (A Captain’s Crucible - Book Two)” and enjoying it just as much. I’ve also found the “Atlas” series which involves a MOTH (read the book) and how he came to be or the start of something new.
There would definitely be a galactic war as a results of that attack. Even though the Sino-Korean Navy would have been severely reduced in strength, they would have a gigantic reason to fight back against the United Systems. Whether they would use planet-killers is probably a certainty. Humanity might not survive this terrible war. Captain Dallas wasn’t all that certain that the bomb needed to be used. He was certain, that is, until this recent event in which he is involved. He has a small part of the task force that has been checking out a couple of moons orbiting one of the gas giants in this system. One of his ships has failed to report in and he’s going to go look for it. Several recon drones have been launched and none have came back from the back side of this moon.
When he finally gets his ship around to the back side, he spots some wreckage and then a swarm of unknown alien spacecraft begin what appears to be an attack run on his small fleet. One of his ships is suddenly sliced length-wised completely in to. So he has a fight on his hands while he attempts to sling-shot the USS Callaway and the rest of his ships around the gas giant and back towards the main fleet. He looses several of his escorts but manages to close with the main part of the fleet heading towards the launch gate where they are to release the planet-killer. In the meantime, Captain Dallas has brought his XO/First Officer, Commander Robert Cray, into his confidences about his planned mutiny. Captain Dallas now feels more than ever that it will be the absolute wrong thing to kill billions of humans now that they have positively identified and hostile alien threat in this system. There is a slipstream gate leading directly back to Primus-3 which then leads back to the Sol System. If they fail to protect this gate or fail to protect the gate in the Primus-3 system, Earth and the Solar System could be completely destroyed. He doesn’t believe that it’s in the best interest of the United Systems or humanity to be fighting an internal war while also trying to fight an unknown alien. Therefore, he’s trying to convince other Captains within the fleet that Admiral Knox’s mission is wrong and they should not follow the Admiral. He plans to bring up a vote of No-Confidence at the next Captain’s meeting which would then remove the Admiral from command. He’s now got the backing of his XO, who also doesn’t want to destroy 5 billion humans just on that principle alone.
When they report back to the fleet their encounter with the aliens, the Admiral doesn’t believe their story! Even with some captured material from one of the enemy’s fighter craft, the Admiral believes it’s the Sino-Koreans who have gotten wind of his mission and are trying to stop them. Even with video evidence that the ships just encountered by the USS Callaway are alien enemies! So, Captain Dallas asks for a vote of No-Confidence which fails miserably! The Admiral found out about Captain Dallas’ plans through the USS Callaway’s AI, Maxwell. He then arrest Captain Dallas and has him placed in the brig. His XO is left in position since they have no positive proof that he was not just following orders, but the Admiral doesn’t trust him enough to put him in command.
The a day out from the launch point for the planet-killer, the aliens do attack the fleet in force. They have very powerful weapons especially when close in and decimate the fleet pretty quickly. They also detonate the planet-killer ship which effectively ends that mission although the mission ended when the Admiral’s flag ship was destroyed with all hands aboard. The senior most Captain in the smaller fleet is now Captain Jonathan Dallas. The USS Callaway becomes the Flag Ship and the story really begins!
A lot going on, that’s for sure. I like the writing. It’s pretty direct and to the point. There’s also not a lot of external stuff going on although the space battles take a little thinking to get an idea of what’s going on. There are civilians aboard the USS Callaway, mostly scientist and maintenance types, plus some of the crews family is aboard to make the extremely long voyages more tolerable. What I don’t understand is how the United Systems organization think that killing 5 billion humans would remotely be OK with anybody! They’re not even at war with the Sino-Koreans! That kind of scenario would be cause for any starship Captain to question why he was involved in such a heinous crime when they weren’t even at war. We’re supposed to be the good guys right?
Ok, so on to book two, which I’m happy to say is readily available. I’m already well into “Test of Mettle (A Captain’s Crucible - Book Two)” and enjoying it just as much. I’ve also found the “Atlas” series which involves a MOTH (read the book) and how he came to be or the start of something new.
March 4, 2017
Adds New Twists
Admitting that I obtained this book free by being an Amazon Prime customer, I really don't have much right in complaining about getting my money's worth. Most of Amazon's Kindle novels are reasonably priced, compared to printed paper books. After all, the cost of virtual printing is minuscule compared to actual book printing. All that being said, I enjoyed, no, devoured this first in what I hope to be a four or five novel story.
Interesting, fairly well developed characters, in a scenario that incorporates a few original ideas make for an entertaining read.
And, after all, we read to be entertained. Don't we?
Admitting that I obtained this book free by being an Amazon Prime customer, I really don't have much right in complaining about getting my money's worth. Most of Amazon's Kindle novels are reasonably priced, compared to printed paper books. After all, the cost of virtual printing is minuscule compared to actual book printing. All that being said, I enjoyed, no, devoured this first in what I hope to be a four or five novel story.
Interesting, fairly well developed characters, in a scenario that incorporates a few original ideas make for an entertaining read.
And, after all, we read to be entertained. Don't we?
October 28, 2016
Not bad, but one line made the book 3 stars instead of 5.
"So you'd rather abort the child, murder her, than give her a chance at life." This is a line the "hero" says to a pregnant woman who had just confided in him that she was in the family way and was considering having an abortion. Somehow, she managed to not slap him or even get slightly upset at this. It doesn't matter what your personal views on abortion are, this is insensitive and demeaning.
Other than this scene, book is decent space opera. I would look for more in the series, but I'm afraid of coming across more preachy episodes like the one described above.
"So you'd rather abort the child, murder her, than give her a chance at life." This is a line the "hero" says to a pregnant woman who had just confided in him that she was in the family way and was considering having an abortion. Somehow, she managed to not slap him or even get slightly upset at this. It doesn't matter what your personal views on abortion are, this is insensitive and demeaning.
Other than this scene, book is decent space opera. I would look for more in the series, but I'm afraid of coming across more preachy episodes like the one described above.
January 31, 2017
Not bad as far as current SciFi goes, but I still found some of the parts lacking in needed study. Also, at times the actions of the characters felt a little out of place. Most of the women a little too subservient and other issues.
****Spoiler****
In one particular scene, the crew cornered an alien on the ship. They appear to have enough time to construct a container to hold the creature. This after making sure they could contain it in such a structure.
Other parts seem a little more far-fetched and off centre with what you would expect. These contributed to the drop in rating.
****Spoiler****
In one particular scene, the crew cornered an alien on the ship. They appear to have enough time to construct a container to hold the creature. This after making sure they could contain it in such a structure.
Other parts seem a little more far-fetched and off centre with what you would expect. These contributed to the drop in rating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2021
Soft, character-driven sci-fi. The self-doubting of the lead character is somewhat depressing. The author has a good working grasp of existing information technology, probably from social media. On the space-faring tech he is somewhat vague, and relies heavily on unobtainium material. He also mixes telepathy, even on robots(!). Human military tech is near future, with familiar names. Strategy is soft as well, but has its nice moments.
Definitely soft sci-fi with a pessimistic hue. Not my cup of tea.
Definitely soft sci-fi with a pessimistic hue. Not my cup of tea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2021
Interesting Space Action
Action-packed space combat adventure. Human political intrigue mixed with alien attack, and the identity and powers of the aliens are unknown. At the same time, the story explores the mental vulnerability of the captain and the experience that haunts him now, years later. Will the human squadron pull together and survive the new threat? Refreshing to see the value placed on human life, including a bold advocacy against abortion.
Action-packed space combat adventure. Human political intrigue mixed with alien attack, and the identity and powers of the aliens are unknown. At the same time, the story explores the mental vulnerability of the captain and the experience that haunts him now, years later. Will the human squadron pull together and survive the new threat? Refreshing to see the value placed on human life, including a bold advocacy against abortion.
October 8, 2018
2.5 stars. Almost DNF. Story was sorta OK but the sometimes jarring ignorance of military matters and similarly jarring repeated cosmology and physics mistakes made the book almost unreadable. Won't read the next in series.
June 14, 2019
Story is chopped up and hard to follow sometimes!
I found it hard to follow the story as it was broke up into different views . On the other hand it was still a good sci fi story based in real science laws.
I found it hard to follow the story as it was broke up into different views . On the other hand it was still a good sci fi story based in real science laws.
May 9, 2017
Great book!
It was an overall great book and easy read. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Star Trek type shows.
It was an overall great book and easy read. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Star Trek type shows.
September 18, 2019
Quite the interesting story. I liked it.
October 8, 2020
Outstanding
Another outstanding series by isaac Hooke. If you're into military scifi I highly recommend this series. Although it isn't necessary, I recommend the Atlas, Alien War, Mech and the Argonauts series first.
Another outstanding series by isaac Hooke. If you're into military scifi I highly recommend this series. Although it isn't necessary, I recommend the Atlas, Alien War, Mech and the Argonauts series first.
September 20, 2016
Flagship (A Captain's Crucible Book 1) by Isaac Hooke is a sci-fi novel that really blew me away. This was awesome! I love his spy books but these are even better! So much action, battle scenes, intrigue, suspense, aliens, and a powerful psychic. Love it! He is an awesome writer anyway and I love the Forever Gate books that I have read so far but these are better. Wow. Must read books! Surprises, twists, and great characters to go with the awesome plot, what more do you need? Loved it.
February 22, 2017
Very well written
And enjoyable. Hope the author will continue his efforts and give us more of the same. Well done to the author.
And enjoyable. Hope the author will continue his efforts and give us more of the same. Well done to the author.
February 22, 2016
 "You wouldn't be planning a mutiny of some sort?"
It starts with the mysterious disappearance of the crew of a research ship, part of a fleet in a lesser charted area of space; then a drone sent to find out why they weren't responding to signals is destroyed and a strange, ancient artifact (ship?) Is spotted on the landmass below. And then the whole fleet under starship captain Jonathan finds itself under attack by unknown vessels, unlike anything previously seen. The order is given for a massive retaliation which would cause the deaths of billions.
But Jonathan is not convinced that the right enemy is to be targeted and, being the sort of person who is always right (yes, I didn't like him much as a person but, hey, he's a starship captain I don't need to like him - and all credit to the author for drawing sufficiently strong characters to elicit any feelings for them), he decides to take on his own side as well as the attackers.
All space battles have, essentially, the same ingredients - fire this, defend that, chase something, patch up bits that blew off and, sometimes, abandon ship. In that, this story is no different BUT I can honestly say that this was the most exciting and enthralling clash of the space battle fleets I have read: I could feel the terror of the crews facing apparent impossible odds where the consequences of failure were intolerable and the decisions made by the officers aboad carried with them a legacy of fear and guilt.
There were a couple of aspects I found irritating such as the military and scientific jargon and explanations, plus there were a couple of minor characters whose own (fortunately brief) background story could easily have been omitted without any loss to the novel. But these are but small quibbles. Overall, an exhilarating read.
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of, Flagship, in return for an honest review. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
It starts with the mysterious disappearance of the crew of a research ship, part of a fleet in a lesser charted area of space; then a drone sent to find out why they weren't responding to signals is destroyed and a strange, ancient artifact (ship?) Is spotted on the landmass below. And then the whole fleet under starship captain Jonathan finds itself under attack by unknown vessels, unlike anything previously seen. The order is given for a massive retaliation which would cause the deaths of billions.
But Jonathan is not convinced that the right enemy is to be targeted and, being the sort of person who is always right (yes, I didn't like him much as a person but, hey, he's a starship captain I don't need to like him - and all credit to the author for drawing sufficiently strong characters to elicit any feelings for them), he decides to take on his own side as well as the attackers.
All space battles have, essentially, the same ingredients - fire this, defend that, chase something, patch up bits that blew off and, sometimes, abandon ship. In that, this story is no different BUT I can honestly say that this was the most exciting and enthralling clash of the space battle fleets I have read: I could feel the terror of the crews facing apparent impossible odds where the consequences of failure were intolerable and the decisions made by the officers aboad carried with them a legacy of fear and guilt.
There were a couple of aspects I found irritating such as the military and scientific jargon and explanations, plus there were a couple of minor characters whose own (fortunately brief) background story could easily have been omitted without any loss to the novel. But these are but small quibbles. Overall, an exhilarating read.
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of, Flagship, in return for an honest review. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
December 14, 2016
‘Flagship – Captain’s Crucible is another great story by Isaac Hooke expanding the universe he previously established in the ‘Atlas’ series. ‘Flagship’ takes place seventy years after the events of ‘Atlas’ and follows Captain Jonathan Dallas, commanding officer of the USS Callaway, as he struggles with his inner demons while confronting a new threat to humanity and the ingrained and unbending mindset of a superior officer and an established order.
The story opens revolving around the opposing ideas of the worth of human life. Is it okay to ignore the opportunity to save a person’s life in order to reach a personal goal, or in a wider view, is it okay to sacrifice millions of people in order to make a preemptive strike on a possible future threat? As Jonathan struggles with these ideas, his task force is confronted with a much larger threat to humanity.
Cut off from Central Command and facing a commanding officer too close-minded to consider the possibilities and implications of facing a new hostile species, Jonathan’s struggle suddenly encompasses not only his personal beliefs, but also the prospect that his actions might influence the fate of all humanity.
As with Mr. Hooke’s other books, the technical details of this story are well laid out and explained in detail, the world building is well thought out and consistent, and the Characters are well developed, though I would have liked to find out a bit more about the relationships and history between some of them. The story sucked me in, with the action and suspense keeping me on the edge and reading on, and I finished the book in one sitting. Overall this is a very good story and I am looking forward to reading its next installment
The story opens revolving around the opposing ideas of the worth of human life. Is it okay to ignore the opportunity to save a person’s life in order to reach a personal goal, or in a wider view, is it okay to sacrifice millions of people in order to make a preemptive strike on a possible future threat? As Jonathan struggles with these ideas, his task force is confronted with a much larger threat to humanity.
Cut off from Central Command and facing a commanding officer too close-minded to consider the possibilities and implications of facing a new hostile species, Jonathan’s struggle suddenly encompasses not only his personal beliefs, but also the prospect that his actions might influence the fate of all humanity.
As with Mr. Hooke’s other books, the technical details of this story are well laid out and explained in detail, the world building is well thought out and consistent, and the Characters are well developed, though I would have liked to find out a bit more about the relationships and history between some of them. The story sucked me in, with the action and suspense keeping me on the edge and reading on, and I finished the book in one sitting. Overall this is a very good story and I am looking forward to reading its next installment
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2016
This book has everything I could want in a Sci-If story that looks like the start of a great series. What I liked best were the emotions and anxieties that affect everyone, especially those on "life and death" missions. Here we have the Captains & Commanders of Spaceships as well as the Fleet Admiral that are part of a Battle-group (Fleet) tasked with a controversial mission that loses contact with Central Command just as a "Go, No Go" message is lost. The Admiral of the Flagship is Hell-Bent on taking an action that will be horrifically costly in lives (Human and Alien) and probably jeopardize relationships with a just discovered Alien Species whose intentions and capabilities are unknown.
One highly respected Captain attempts to rally other Captains to a less destructive course of action. Problem is, who is the on-board AI most loyal to? Is it the Ship's Captain? The Fleet Admiral? The Mission? Central Command? And, can it be trusted to not record when it's instructed to not record.
That's just a small part of the intrigue addressed in the story. There is so much going on here that it is a great credit to the Author that we are able to keep track of all the characters, events, motivations, etc. when dealing with a variety of unknowns. One recommendation I would make, as I often do; I believe the reader would be helped if the Author would provide a Glossary of the more involved characters to help us better understand who's who during the action. There is a lot of tension, surprises and cliffhangers to keep your pulse racing and breathing heavy.
Review by: THE HOLEY ONE
One highly respected Captain attempts to rally other Captains to a less destructive course of action. Problem is, who is the on-board AI most loyal to? Is it the Ship's Captain? The Fleet Admiral? The Mission? Central Command? And, can it be trusted to not record when it's instructed to not record.
That's just a small part of the intrigue addressed in the story. There is so much going on here that it is a great credit to the Author that we are able to keep track of all the characters, events, motivations, etc. when dealing with a variety of unknowns. One recommendation I would make, as I often do; I believe the reader would be helped if the Author would provide a Glossary of the more involved characters to help us better understand who's who during the action. There is a lot of tension, surprises and cliffhangers to keep your pulse racing and breathing heavy.
Review by: THE HOLEY ONE
February 22, 2016
Friends of mine know that I read anything and everything I can get my hands on. I've always been a bit more cautious with SciFi books though as I was introduced to the genre by reading some of the best. I quickly found that there is a rare breed who can write SciFi and do it well but I really think Mr. Hooke is off to a great start in this series. Having read the author before, I was looking forward to his version and I was not disappointed. While I'm not sure this is the next big thing in the genre, it is definitely not to be passed over. I love the character development, especially in regards to the AI and the captain. I think the science rounded out pretty well overall, although it did get a bit too much explanation at times. That is just my personal view though- I know many who would have wanted to see more. I'm almost sad to be in the preview reading group for this one as I now have to wait longer than I would had I waited and purchased the book on schedule and I now must be patient for more in the series. All in all, don't wait. It's a fun read. Also if you've read the mystery series by the author, there might be an Easter egg or two. Enjoy!
April 21, 2016
Not as good as I expected...
After having been thrilled with the Atlas series I had very high hopes For this book. In Atlas, the author had a terrific handle on the world of the 'ground pounder'. Now, having transferred to world of the space faring naval vessel, things didn't seem to ring as true. The interactions between officers and crew felt somehow, unrealistic. Naval vessels, either now or hundreds of years in the future must by their very nature run on strict discipline. That discipline was lacking. Then there's the AI. I suppose the author was trying to do something different with a common space opera meme, but it just turned out to be annoying.
The fact that I didn't care as much for this book as the previous ones doesn't remove Mr. Hooke from my current list of favorite authors and I will try the next one on for size when it comes out. While I gardedly recommend this book, taken one it's own it may turn some people off, so definitely read Atlas first.
After having been thrilled with the Atlas series I had very high hopes For this book. In Atlas, the author had a terrific handle on the world of the 'ground pounder'. Now, having transferred to world of the space faring naval vessel, things didn't seem to ring as true. The interactions between officers and crew felt somehow, unrealistic. Naval vessels, either now or hundreds of years in the future must by their very nature run on strict discipline. That discipline was lacking. Then there's the AI. I suppose the author was trying to do something different with a common space opera meme, but it just turned out to be annoying.
The fact that I didn't care as much for this book as the previous ones doesn't remove Mr. Hooke from my current list of favorite authors and I will try the next one on for size when it comes out. While I gardedly recommend this book, taken one it's own it may turn some people off, so definitely read Atlas first.
May 30, 2016
Action packed futuristic space age space-war novel with alien attacks and warfare strategy, internal human politics, leadership, internal past demons, relationships, emotional elements, betrayals and intelligent AIs (Artificial Intelligence) and of course, the surprise Telepath.
That's all there in Flagship ...
Isaac has roped in some nice set of strong impressive characters and this can be another potential series. He opens up a world of possibilities with the story in Flagship and it would be fun to read more about the universe created.
There are so many aspects of the story which can be explored further into multiple threads and of course the aliens are expected to return with more fire-power. The aliens themselves are a mystery and in this novel, their true form and nature has not been revealed so further books can exploit that too.
I would look forward to further books in the Flagship series. Its been a while since I have read sci-fi space-age books.
That's all there in Flagship ...
Isaac has roped in some nice set of strong impressive characters and this can be another potential series. He opens up a world of possibilities with the story in Flagship and it would be fun to read more about the universe created.
There are so many aspects of the story which can be explored further into multiple threads and of course the aliens are expected to return with more fire-power. The aliens themselves are a mystery and in this novel, their true form and nature has not been revealed so further books can exploit that too.
I would look forward to further books in the Flagship series. Its been a while since I have read sci-fi space-age books.
February 26, 2016
I was provided a pre-release copy of this book by the author with the understanding that I would write an unbiased review.
Let me start by saying that I really like Isaac Hooke's writing. A lot. I've read his science fiction books and espionage type books and the quality and storytelling skills are solid across the board.
This book is listed as a "Book 1" which is good news indeed. There's going to be more! I can't wait!
Captain Jonathan Dallas, a man haunted by some very disturbing events in his past, has to battle these past ghosts while dealing with the disappearance of a ship, the possibility of a war, trying to determine who the actual enemy is, and senior officers who are, to be blunt, idiots. All in a day's work... The story is well written and a page-turner. I couldn't put it down.
I am anxiously awaiting sequels (hint, hint).
Let me start by saying that I really like Isaac Hooke's writing. A lot. I've read his science fiction books and espionage type books and the quality and storytelling skills are solid across the board.
This book is listed as a "Book 1" which is good news indeed. There's going to be more! I can't wait!
Captain Jonathan Dallas, a man haunted by some very disturbing events in his past, has to battle these past ghosts while dealing with the disappearance of a ship, the possibility of a war, trying to determine who the actual enemy is, and senior officers who are, to be blunt, idiots. All in a day's work... The story is well written and a page-turner. I couldn't put it down.
I am anxiously awaiting sequels (hint, hint).
March 6, 2016
A sequel of sorts to his popular Atlas books, this book takes place 70 years or so after the events in Atlas 3. While the story does include a much older Rade Galaal, and even his daughter with Shaw Chopra, now a starship captain herself, this is really more like Jack Campbell's Lost Fleet in tone, dealing with a starship captain and his actions against an alien menace. There is some well plotted space combat, some powerful, mysterious aliens, and some swashbuckling seat of the pants heroics from various characters. There is also some realistic fleet politics, and a backstory for the Captain that makes him a very sympathetic character. Well paced, well written, and with good continuity to the previous books, I cant recommend this highly enough. Any fan of Jack Campbell or H. Paul Honsinger should enjoy this book.
February 22, 2016
If you liked the Atlas series you will love this. Flagship is a new series that continues in the Atlas universe. It happens years after the Atlas books. Flagship does not follow the MOTHs but follows the Navy Fleet. Although everyone's favorite MOTH is on board and gets into the action.
The book is action packed and fast paced. The characters are well defined and you can sense their personalities. From their flaws to their triumphs. Old injuries both mental and physical. If out like SciFi with all of the technical parts you will be disappointed. This is more like Star Trek style of stories where the characters and plot are brought to the front instead. I like that kind of story it is not weighed down. You won't want to put this book down after you start it.
The book is action packed and fast paced. The characters are well defined and you can sense their personalities. From their flaws to their triumphs. Old injuries both mental and physical. If out like SciFi with all of the technical parts you will be disappointed. This is more like Star Trek style of stories where the characters and plot are brought to the front instead. I like that kind of story it is not weighed down. You won't want to put this book down after you start it.
May 5, 2016
Hm. Reasonably enjoyable, first. Second, refreshingly more realistic than most SF books or movies about how a space battle would actually go with anything like technology we can realistically foresee. Also shows clever and novel consideration of what the bridge and berths of a real spaceship are likely to look like. Similarly, a reasonably plausible idea of how someone could enhance telepathy (it is fiction, after all).
As for negatives? About a dozen misspellings, some sense that characters are a little too unidimensional, and a straw-man view of the pro-[maternal]-choice side of the abortion debate.
As for negatives? About a dozen misspellings, some sense that characters are a little too unidimensional, and a straw-man view of the pro-[maternal]-choice side of the abortion debate.
March 17, 2016
Military space sci fi
This first book has some good main character development, a lot of detailed space battle scenes, and some social and philosophic elements. I think it works well, though it is not entirely my preferred style. There are a few editing errors, but not bad at all. The action is well paced, but the universe building is low and the politics are rather heavy handed. The politics also are too thinly veiled references to current world issues for my taste. The touch idealism and hope is nice.
This first book has some good main character development, a lot of detailed space battle scenes, and some social and philosophic elements. I think it works well, though it is not entirely my preferred style. There are a few editing errors, but not bad at all. The action is well paced, but the universe building is low and the politics are rather heavy handed. The politics also are too thinly veiled references to current world issues for my taste. The touch idealism and hope is nice.
May 21, 2016
**NOTE** I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FROM THE AUTHOR FOR FREE BUT WITH NO COMMITMENT TO REVIEW.
I didn't know what to expect (as I am new to space operas) from Flagship, but as it would turn out I actually enjoyed the writing and pacing of the book. The only thing I would have liked to see more of from this book is character development, as I felt it was a bit lacking. Overall, Flagship was better than average and enjoyable.
I didn't know what to expect (as I am new to space operas) from Flagship, but as it would turn out I actually enjoyed the writing and pacing of the book. The only thing I would have liked to see more of from this book is character development, as I felt it was a bit lacking. Overall, Flagship was better than average and enjoyable.
June 6, 2016
Interesting start
This is the first book l have read by this author, l have enjoyed following the struggles of Captain Dallas. We see that as captain of the Callaway he has to fight his own problems. But also the closed mind of his superior officer. He has to lead the remaining ships of this task force against a new enemy hoping that they will win out, and be able to inform central command.
This is the first book l have read by this author, l have enjoyed following the struggles of Captain Dallas. We see that as captain of the Callaway he has to fight his own problems. But also the closed mind of his superior officer. He has to lead the remaining ships of this task force against a new enemy hoping that they will win out, and be able to inform central command.
March 25, 2024
Another great series!
I finished the Alien War Trilogy from Isaac and then had to start reading more from this author. This one is just as good as the last series. Great action and an amazing story, I'd love to write more of a review but I gotta go download the next book and start reading it to see what happens next. If you like military sci-fi definitely try out this author. You won't be disappointed.
I finished the Alien War Trilogy from Isaac and then had to start reading more from this author. This one is just as good as the last series. Great action and an amazing story, I'd love to write more of a review but I gotta go download the next book and start reading it to see what happens next. If you like military sci-fi definitely try out this author. You won't be disappointed.
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