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Fallen Empire #4
Relic of Sorrows
Captain Alisa Marchenko finally has a lead on finding her daughter, but her passengers want her to take them on their quest instead. Even though the Star Nomad is her ship, they have power she cannot fight, and she finds herself with no choice but to accept another detour.
But the ancient relic they seek has the ability to destroy worlds and is coveted by many. The path leading to it is riddled with competitors and littered with the dead, and even a cyborg and a Starseer may not be strong enough to fight the obstacles in the way.
Swept up in a fate she never chose, Alisa must find a way to survive against impossible odds, knowing that if her passengers succeed, they will change the course of history—maybe not for the better.
But the ancient relic they seek has the ability to destroy worlds and is coveted by many. The path leading to it is riddled with competitors and littered with the dead, and even a cyborg and a Starseer may not be strong enough to fight the obstacles in the way.
Swept up in a fate she never chose, Alisa must find a way to survive against impossible odds, knowing that if her passengers succeed, they will change the course of history—maybe not for the better.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2016
424 people are currently reading
1296 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Buroker
197 books6,236 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
May 18, 2020
Surprisingly, this series seems to get better as it progress. That, or I'm just growing acustomed to the style, narrative and pace of "The fallen empire".
Yes, the characters, or at least all of them bar two leads, are thin as paper, but the plot is decent and quite fun and, frankly, I'm already intrigued where it would develop further.
While looking up the author herself, I noticed that she's much more prolific in fantasy than sci-fi, and that actually made some issues much more clear for me, like, ummm... Space elves. Ok, that is a joke, but when one of the characters is tall, lean, very handsome, has long braided hair, carries himself around with grim arrogance and, on top of that, has a powerful staff and psychic powers... One cannot help but wonder is it, by chance, a relic of that fantasy background. Nothing bad with it, just worth mentioning, I guess.
A solid 7/10, meaning I'll round it up to 4*.
Yes, the characters, or at least all of them bar two leads, are thin as paper, but the plot is decent and quite fun and, frankly, I'm already intrigued where it would develop further.
While looking up the author herself, I noticed that she's much more prolific in fantasy than sci-fi, and that actually made some issues much more clear for me, like, ummm... Space elves. Ok, that is a joke, but when one of the characters is tall, lean, very handsome, has long braided hair, carries himself around with grim arrogance and, on top of that, has a powerful staff and psychic powers... One cannot help but wonder is it, by chance, a relic of that fantasy background. Nothing bad with it, just worth mentioning, I guess.
A solid 7/10, meaning I'll round it up to 4*.
July 7, 2016
Fabio In Space Syndrome?
Book 4, "Relic of Sorrows," continues the series of "Fallen Empire." It's in the main still entertaining and well written. The writing skill set is there, as well as both editing and proofreading. What is also there unfortunately, is the diminishing of the storyline and plot, replaced by the "Fabio" syndrome-intrepid and interesting heroine character, obsessing over male muscles. The story deserves better and frankly, it appears to be a lazy method of writing.
The female/male banter is great, when it enhances dimensions of characterizations (Tracy-Hepburn, Bogart-Bacall/Hepburn, Powell-Loy: interplay of intelligence, humor, romance, attraction, strength, and tension) but, not if it marginalizes the main story. Lead character is a newly widowed, combat pilot, war vet, mother, whose eight (8) year old daughter has been kidnapped. The lack of urgency in the quest to save her daughter is astonishing. Any parent, but especially one who is combat tested, would never, never have such a cavalier attitude, while their child was in harm's way. This glaring flaw made the rating a coin flip between 2 or 3 stars.
It's disappointing, as the previous books, and even this one are entertaining. The storylines and plots are becoming too shallow.
Book 4 is narrowly recommended.
Read fully via Kindle Unlimited.
Book 4, "Relic of Sorrows," continues the series of "Fallen Empire." It's in the main still entertaining and well written. The writing skill set is there, as well as both editing and proofreading. What is also there unfortunately, is the diminishing of the storyline and plot, replaced by the "Fabio" syndrome-intrepid and interesting heroine character, obsessing over male muscles. The story deserves better and frankly, it appears to be a lazy method of writing.
The female/male banter is great, when it enhances dimensions of characterizations (Tracy-Hepburn, Bogart-Bacall/Hepburn, Powell-Loy: interplay of intelligence, humor, romance, attraction, strength, and tension) but, not if it marginalizes the main story. Lead character is a newly widowed, combat pilot, war vet, mother, whose eight (8) year old daughter has been kidnapped. The lack of urgency in the quest to save her daughter is astonishing. Any parent, but especially one who is combat tested, would never, never have such a cavalier attitude, while their child was in harm's way. This glaring flaw made the rating a coin flip between 2 or 3 stars.
It's disappointing, as the previous books, and even this one are entertaining. The storylines and plots are becoming too shallow.
Book 4 is narrowly recommended.
Read fully via Kindle Unlimited.
August 6, 2016
Another solidly enjoyable read in this light science fiction series.
June 25, 2016
Alisa seriously needs to put her foot down – but what can a girl do? The man with the mind control powers seems to hold all the cards, especially when his destination, if not his mission, is the same as the druid's. The mystery of the dead ship on the way to the middle of nowhere leaves the crew and passengers of the Star Nomad befuddled, and the answer to the question of why there seems to be nothing at the coordinates to which they are led is surprising.
The Fallen Empire series has been a fun read from the beginning, but it gets more complex and exciting as it goes along. I love that the author has kept certain characters, even though they are perfectly unlikable and contentious. These characters also gain depth, and add an interesting element to the storyline, as well as to the relationships between the original members of the group.
I have been a fan of Ms. Buroker's work since I picked up the first The Emperor's EdgeEmperor's Edge novel, and have voraciously read all of her other works since. This space opera series is a departure from her usual steam punk fare, and I love it. I do have to say, however, that if you're looking for "hard core sci-fi" with a bunch of science-y stuff, iron the wrinkles out of your undies and enjoy it anyway! This is light-hearted reading with fun and fascinating characters, space travel, and tongue-in-cheek humor.
Lindsay Buroker has a reputation for creating fun, snarky characters, and Alisa Marchenko fits the bill – though I have to say that I think the engineer is a bowl full of irreverence herself, and I love it. Relic of Sorrows is a great weekend read – but I have to admit I couldn't wait until the weekend, and read it in bed until I fell asleep on my tablet. WORTH IT!
The Fallen Empire series has been a fun read from the beginning, but it gets more complex and exciting as it goes along. I love that the author has kept certain characters, even though they are perfectly unlikable and contentious. These characters also gain depth, and add an interesting element to the storyline, as well as to the relationships between the original members of the group.
I have been a fan of Ms. Buroker's work since I picked up the first The Emperor's EdgeEmperor's Edge novel, and have voraciously read all of her other works since. This space opera series is a departure from her usual steam punk fare, and I love it. I do have to say, however, that if you're looking for "hard core sci-fi" with a bunch of science-y stuff, iron the wrinkles out of your undies and enjoy it anyway! This is light-hearted reading with fun and fascinating characters, space travel, and tongue-in-cheek humor.
Lindsay Buroker has a reputation for creating fun, snarky characters, and Alisa Marchenko fits the bill – though I have to say that I think the engineer is a bowl full of irreverence herself, and I love it. Relic of Sorrows is a great weekend read – but I have to admit I couldn't wait until the weekend, and read it in bed until I fell asleep on my tablet. WORTH IT!
December 29, 2023
So many plot holes and yet I can't stop reading it. Loving this.
January 21, 2017
Relic of Sorrows continues the upwards trend that started in the previous book, in large part thanks to the addition of Abelardus to the team and the reappearance of Commander Tomich. I find myself liking both of them in spite of some questionable incidents - is it too much to ask for them to become official members of the Good Guys? Pretty please? In fact, for about 70% of the book, I was ready to elevate Abelardus and his surprisingly fun self to the top of my favorite character list and was delighted that he'd . And then it all fell apart, of course, but I still hold out hope that Abelardus and Tomich will both come through. They're some of the most interesting characters in the cast thus far.
Which leads me to our protagonist, Alisa, whom I'm unfortunately liking less with each book. I definitely don't dislike her and she has her charming moments, but she so often gives me second-hand embarrassment with her questionable choices and immature comments that I almost wish she was as similar to Amaranthe as she'd initially appeared in the first book.
I thought I'd find less to cringe about once there were more significant romantic developments and Leonidas began openly reciprocating feelings (it was bound to happen), but apparently not. I wanted to drop my face into my hands and weep every time Alisa either made suggestive comments or actually jumped Leonidas (, which just made it more embarrassing), because it screamed of a desperation that did not befit a widow of... 6 months? Who is supposed to be on a race-against-time mission to save her kidnapped daughter, by the way, and is also Leonidas' would-be employer. Leonidas is sweet, and his desire to protect her as well as extremely rare expressions of jealousy or possessiveness are cute, however, so hopefully things are looking up.
Plot-wise, we have more major (interesting) reveals about Alisa and her connection to the Starseers, Alejandro's mission and her daughter's kidnapper. While I wouldn't call this a cracking pace, I'm happy with the way things are going. The only improvement on the story front that I still find myself fervently wishing for is Alejandro's early demise - but I doubt I'll be granted that wish!
Which leads me to our protagonist, Alisa, whom I'm unfortunately liking less with each book. I definitely don't dislike her and she has her charming moments, but she so often gives me second-hand embarrassment with her questionable choices and immature comments that I almost wish she was as similar to Amaranthe as she'd initially appeared in the first book.
I thought I'd find less to cringe about once there were more significant romantic developments and Leonidas began openly reciprocating feelings (it was bound to happen), but apparently not. I wanted to drop my face into my hands and weep every time Alisa either made suggestive comments or actually jumped Leonidas (, which just made it more embarrassing), because it screamed of a desperation that did not befit a widow of... 6 months? Who is supposed to be on a race-against-time mission to save her kidnapped daughter, by the way, and is also Leonidas' would-be employer. Leonidas is sweet, and his desire to protect her as well as extremely rare expressions of jealousy or possessiveness are cute, however, so hopefully things are looking up.
Plot-wise, we have more major (interesting) reveals about Alisa and her connection to the Starseers, Alejandro's mission and her daughter's kidnapper. While I wouldn't call this a cracking pace, I'm happy with the way things are going. The only improvement on the story front that I still find myself fervently wishing for is Alejandro's early demise - but I doubt I'll be granted that wish!
May 11, 2019
With some series I don't really feel the need to read every novella, but with this one I have to read every little thing I can get my hands on! This extra little epilogue was fun to read, just like the rest of the series. I loved the brownie baking and that Leonidas and Beck are starting to get along.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Merged review:
Captain Alisa Marchenko finally has a lead on finding her daughter, but her passengers want her to take them on their quest instead. They have power she cannot fight, and she finds herself with no choice but to accept another detour.
But the ancient relic they seek has the ability to destroy worlds and is coveted by many. The path leading to it is riddled with competitors and littered with the dead, and even a cyborg and a Starseer may not be strong enough to fight the obstacles in the way.
The plot thickens in this fourth book in the series. There was tomb raiding in space, lots of action, progress with a relationship, and of course the wonderful banter between characters. I do think that the one thing that is lacking is a sense of urgency on Alisa's part to find her daughter. Sure, she is at the whim of Abelardus who refuses to help her until his quest is complete, but Alisa sits back and takes that way too easily. As a mother myself, I would be frantic with worry about my daughter, and the book just doesn't convey that at all about Alisa.
One of the best things about this book to me are that Beck and Leonidas are getting along. I hope to see a real camaraderie develop between them. The novella that follows this story helps to build on that. Then there is the step toward a romantic relationship between a couple of the characters. I like the way it is heading, but it looks like it will take a while to get there, for reasons I had already guessed, but will not divulge here.
Overall, another solid book, in a series that just keeps on entertaining. It's rip-roaring fun and I'm enjoying the heck out of it.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Merged review:
Captain Alisa Marchenko finally has a lead on finding her daughter, but her passengers want her to take them on their quest instead. They have power she cannot fight, and she finds herself with no choice but to accept another detour.
But the ancient relic they seek has the ability to destroy worlds and is coveted by many. The path leading to it is riddled with competitors and littered with the dead, and even a cyborg and a Starseer may not be strong enough to fight the obstacles in the way.
The plot thickens in this fourth book in the series. There was tomb raiding in space, lots of action, progress with a relationship, and of course the wonderful banter between characters. I do think that the one thing that is lacking is a sense of urgency on Alisa's part to find her daughter. Sure, she is at the whim of Abelardus who refuses to help her until his quest is complete, but Alisa sits back and takes that way too easily. As a mother myself, I would be frantic with worry about my daughter, and the book just doesn't convey that at all about Alisa.
One of the best things about this book to me are that Beck and Leonidas are getting along. I hope to see a real camaraderie develop between them. The novella that follows this story helps to build on that. Then there is the step toward a romantic relationship between a couple of the characters. I like the way it is heading, but it looks like it will take a while to get there, for reasons I had already guessed, but will not divulge here.
Overall, another solid book, in a series that just keeps on entertaining. It's rip-roaring fun and I'm enjoying the heck out of it.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
November 11, 2016
Another entertaining entry in this space-opera series, full of the banter that's such an enjoyable feature of Lindsay Buroker's books:
"Any trouble?"
"Nothing I can't handle," Alisa said.
"Or exacerbate," Leonidas murmured.
Or:
"It's never too early to be pessimistic."
Apart from an occasional "may" instead of "might" in past-tense narration, the editing is excellent, as usual.
I am starting to feel that the issue that's driving the main character - the search for her daughter - isn't driving her hard enough, or leading to as much conflict as it could between pilot Alisa and her annoying and difficulty-causing passengers. She goes along a little too easily with their agendas, even when that distracts from her own quest, serves the cause that she fought against, and sets her in opposition to her own former side. It seems like a case of plot starting to drive character behaviour, rather than arising from clear character motivations. Hopefully that will start to change in the later books in the series; I turn to these whenever I'm ho-hum about other books in my reading queue and need something reliably entertaining.
"Any trouble?"
"Nothing I can't handle," Alisa said.
"Or exacerbate," Leonidas murmured.
Or:
"It's never too early to be pessimistic."
Apart from an occasional "may" instead of "might" in past-tense narration, the editing is excellent, as usual.
I am starting to feel that the issue that's driving the main character - the search for her daughter - isn't driving her hard enough, or leading to as much conflict as it could between pilot Alisa and her annoying and difficulty-causing passengers. She goes along a little too easily with their agendas, even when that distracts from her own quest, serves the cause that she fought against, and sets her in opposition to her own former side. It seems like a case of plot starting to drive character behaviour, rather than arising from clear character motivations. Hopefully that will start to change in the later books in the series; I turn to these whenever I'm ho-hum about other books in my reading queue and need something reliably entertaining.
August 15, 2021
While I'm enjoying this series, it's also very, very frustrating. I quite liked the progress that was made in this particular book. We got to see more bonding between Alisa and Leo which I'm always happy to see. We also saw Leo officially discuss his "issue", I'd love to see where that all leads within the series. Oh, also really loved how we're starting to explore Alisa's lineage and how that affects the story.
I'm glad that it seems in the next book, we might finally make some progress/just effort into finding Jelena. One thing I don't like about this series is the fact that finding her feels like a secondary adventure. Don't get me wrong, I'm fine with the whole interlocking stories, the whole thing with the orb and also finding Jelena, but I just wish that the Jelena storyline would be the one taking precedent. Alisa is our main protagonist, the priority should be on her story, not that of those around her.
Anyways, I'm also starting a petition to bin off both Alejandro and Abelardus. Although, I would quite like to see a lil something in Abe's POV just because I just can't comprehend what's going on in that mans head.
Onto the next one I suppose!
I'm glad that it seems in the next book, we might finally make some progress/just effort into finding Jelena. One thing I don't like about this series is the fact that finding her feels like a secondary adventure. Don't get me wrong, I'm fine with the whole interlocking stories, the whole thing with the orb and also finding Jelena, but I just wish that the Jelena storyline would be the one taking precedent. Alisa is our main protagonist, the priority should be on her story, not that of those around her.
Anyways, I'm also starting a petition to bin off both Alejandro and Abelardus. Although, I would quite like to see a lil something in Abe's POV just because I just can't comprehend what's going on in that mans head.
Onto the next one I suppose!
July 2, 2016
It's not often that I'm still fan-girling by book four of the series. What's even less frequent? When I decide to break my ban on unnecessary emails and sign up for the author's email list just so I can download a free novella.
Relic of Sorrows is the book that broke both rules. It's a solid addition to the series, providing more of what we already loved --- the reluctant comradeship of an unlikely crew, the space adventures, the fun world-building reminiscent of Star Wars but more interesting. (Of *course* the Jedis would actually be semi-bad guys with those mind powers!)
But then Buroker took it up a notch with a very unconventional romantic hurdle and a scarily good external dilemma (complete with maybe-good/maybe-bad antagonist).
In the end, I was left craving more, more, more! I can hardly wait for book five.
Relic of Sorrows is the book that broke both rules. It's a solid addition to the series, providing more of what we already loved --- the reluctant comradeship of an unlikely crew, the space adventures, the fun world-building reminiscent of Star Wars but more interesting. (Of *course* the Jedis would actually be semi-bad guys with those mind powers!)
But then Buroker took it up a notch with a very unconventional romantic hurdle and a scarily good external dilemma (complete with maybe-good/maybe-bad antagonist).
In the end, I was left craving more, more, more! I can hardly wait for book five.
March 17, 2017
I have read the first four books in this series in 5 days, and I'm having to physically restrain myself from launching into the fifth book. I love the characters, the pace is fast, and I'm completely hooked.
June 30, 2016
Another excellent installment in this series. One month till the next one!
January 11, 2020
Captain Alisa Marchenko and her rag-tag crew, friends and passengers now include a Starseer. Desperate to find her daughter she is yet again diverted by her passengers in their quest to find Alcyone's staff. Their travels take them to a supposedly empty part of space where they encounter further adventures and Alisa learns more about the Starseers and the cyborg Leonidas.
Ancient relics, cyborgs, Alliance rebels, Imperial sympathisers, secret societies and plenty of humour make this an enjoyable successor to the free omnibus. Can't wait for the next one.
Ancient relics, cyborgs, Alliance rebels, Imperial sympathisers, secret societies and plenty of humour make this an enjoyable successor to the free omnibus. Can't wait for the next one.
January 19, 2018
On the one hand, it's good that Alisa is starting to think more through the repercussions of her actions than in the first 3 books. On the other hand, the way Alisa (and I guess Buroker) handle Leonidas' problem is frustrating to say the least.
Rant incoming...
To say I'm disappointed is an understatement.
Merged review:
Adorable!
Rant incoming...
To say I'm disappointed is an understatement.
Merged review:
Adorable!
June 12, 2018
A great read continuing the saga of the small band of mistmatched crew and passengers on the Star Nomad as they're drawn into another perilous mission for the Staff of Lore, the last original staff of the Starseers.
Captain Alisa Marchenko is drawn even further into the conflict and search for this strange artifact, the crew placed in danger from a new enemy and the Alliance proving to be as distrustful as the old Empire used to be.
Having a starseer on board from their last adventure, who regularly causes friction between various crew members and especially with Leonidas adds to the melting pot and then just when there seems to be a way to escape being embroiled things take another turn...
Another well written book in the Fallen Empire series, and the lives of the characters are devloping well with more details being revealed about their pasts that help bring both understanding and for some, closer together
Captain Alisa Marchenko is drawn even further into the conflict and search for this strange artifact, the crew placed in danger from a new enemy and the Alliance proving to be as distrustful as the old Empire used to be.
Having a starseer on board from their last adventure, who regularly causes friction between various crew members and especially with Leonidas adds to the melting pot and then just when there seems to be a way to escape being embroiled things take another turn...
Another well written book in the Fallen Empire series, and the lives of the characters are devloping well with more details being revealed about their pasts that help bring both understanding and for some, closer together
January 18, 2018
I loved this little short. It was a good insight into how Leonidas thinks about the captain.
Merged review:
I just wanted to preface this with Ms. Buroker is awesome and I have loved pretty much everything I’ve read of hers over the years and adore how she writes in a few different genres.
Everyone should try one of her books at one point in their lives….
Leonidas is bad ass, I love the action scenes. The extra star seer surprises were … surprising and I look forward to seeing how things will unfold now that this part of the mission has been completed.
Merged review:
I just wanted to preface this with Ms. Buroker is awesome and I have loved pretty much everything I’ve read of hers over the years and adore how she writes in a few different genres.
Everyone should try one of her books at one point in their lives….
Leonidas is bad ass, I love the action scenes. The extra star seer surprises were … surprising and I look forward to seeing how things will unfold now that this part of the mission has been completed.
December 23, 2022
IT TOOK THEM FOUR BOOKS TO KISS!!!
This is quite literally an enemies-to-lovers. They were on opposing sides during the war. It's such a fun series, especially the slow burn! Ugh, I love this author.
This is quite literally an enemies-to-lovers. They were on opposing sides during the war. It's such a fun series, especially the slow burn! Ugh, I love this author.
July 12, 2016
Love this series.
I love this series and can't wait for book 5. The author keeps things interesting. Easy reading and fun. Wonder what their next adventure will be.
I love this series and can't wait for book 5. The author keeps things interesting. Easy reading and fun. Wonder what their next adventure will be.
August 27, 2019
I've been really enjoying the Fallen Empire series by Lindsay Buroker and this fourth book in the series is no exception. Filled with action, great characters, an interesting universe and some great twist and turns I would recommend this series to those who love sci-fi books.
In Relic of Sorrows the search is on for the relic. They finally have a clue where it is and three of her passengers want to visit so Alisa ends up bringing them there. They also have a new passenger onboard, Abelardus. Who complicates things, but who might also be a valuable source of information as he knows the person who kidnapped her daughter. It's another great read that kept my attention. The pace is well done and there's plenty of action, while also enough room for a bit of character depth.
This book felt a bit like a search for hidden treasure and I quite liked that vibe. Even though I was unsure about this whole relic and whether they should have it in the first place, it was a lot of fun to follow them along their quest to find it. And it's complete with complications, booby traps and other people who are after the relic as well as some interesting twists.
I also keep being impressed with how even with the amount of action and things going badly for the characters, things happen slightly different every time, so it never feels repetitive. It also keeps having this positive vibe that I love, you know the characters will eventually come out alright form whatever trouble they're in.
There are also some interesting twists and reveals in this book. I feel like in every book it becomes clearer what happened to Jelena and while in this one they don't make any physical steps to being closer to finding her, there are some pieces of information that come to light that bring the events in a slightly different light and offer another possible motive for the kidnapper or offer more depth to the current motive.
I enjoy reading about these characters. They all have their own personality. I like Alisa's brand of humor and seeing how Leonidas reacts to it. There also is some development in the romance and a reveal surrounding Leonidas' quest which sheds more light on his character and goals. Alisa and Leonidas continue to be the most interesting and likable of the group.
Yumi is a bit more to background in this one with few important scenes. Mica sticks to her side character role the same as in previous books with her being important, but not very present most of the time. Abelardus is a bit hard to get a grip on at first and the more we learn about him the more I dislike him, he does something in this book that crossed a line and I thought he got off easily. I do find his character interesting and how he adds the Starseer perspective to the group. Alejandro has a bigger role in this book as the relic is his quest. He still dislikes Alisa a lot, so I find it hard to believe at times why he either doesn't grow to like her more or find another ship. There is some interesting dynamics between him and Abelardus as they both are after the same relic.
This book also addresses the different motives and goals of the characters again and at times I struggle to understand why they all stick together. Although I am glad that they do as it makes for interesting adventures. I also liked to see Leonidas expressing curiosity about why Alisa joined the Alliance and I feel that both she and Leonidas are getting a bit softer in their views. This book continues the show the more grey side of the alliance as well.
There are some new things we learn about the world as well. Mostly pieces that flesh things out a bit more. A bit about the relic and Alycone. I also realized the galaxy is a bit smaller than I initially thought and now I kinda want a map to be able to visualize things better and get a feel for the planets and such in this part of the galaxy.
To summarize: This was another fun read. This book having a bit of a search for the hidden treasure vibe, which was quite fun. There is again plenty of action as well. I liked the few twists and reveals this book brought and how we learn more about Alisa and Leonidas. Their romance progresses a bit too, which I was happy to see. The group of character is interesting and they all seem to want different things. At times it's a bit hard to believe they all stick together, but I am glad they do as it makes for some great adventures. And with everything that happens in this book I am curious to see what the next book will bring.
In Relic of Sorrows the search is on for the relic. They finally have a clue where it is and three of her passengers want to visit so Alisa ends up bringing them there. They also have a new passenger onboard, Abelardus. Who complicates things, but who might also be a valuable source of information as he knows the person who kidnapped her daughter. It's another great read that kept my attention. The pace is well done and there's plenty of action, while also enough room for a bit of character depth.
This book felt a bit like a search for hidden treasure and I quite liked that vibe. Even though I was unsure about this whole relic and whether they should have it in the first place, it was a lot of fun to follow them along their quest to find it. And it's complete with complications, booby traps and other people who are after the relic as well as some interesting twists.
I also keep being impressed with how even with the amount of action and things going badly for the characters, things happen slightly different every time, so it never feels repetitive. It also keeps having this positive vibe that I love, you know the characters will eventually come out alright form whatever trouble they're in.
There are also some interesting twists and reveals in this book. I feel like in every book it becomes clearer what happened to Jelena and while in this one they don't make any physical steps to being closer to finding her, there are some pieces of information that come to light that bring the events in a slightly different light and offer another possible motive for the kidnapper or offer more depth to the current motive.
I enjoy reading about these characters. They all have their own personality. I like Alisa's brand of humor and seeing how Leonidas reacts to it. There also is some development in the romance and a reveal surrounding Leonidas' quest which sheds more light on his character and goals. Alisa and Leonidas continue to be the most interesting and likable of the group.
Yumi is a bit more to background in this one with few important scenes. Mica sticks to her side character role the same as in previous books with her being important, but not very present most of the time. Abelardus is a bit hard to get a grip on at first and the more we learn about him the more I dislike him, he does something in this book that crossed a line and I thought he got off easily. I do find his character interesting and how he adds the Starseer perspective to the group. Alejandro has a bigger role in this book as the relic is his quest. He still dislikes Alisa a lot, so I find it hard to believe at times why he either doesn't grow to like her more or find another ship. There is some interesting dynamics between him and Abelardus as they both are after the same relic.
This book also addresses the different motives and goals of the characters again and at times I struggle to understand why they all stick together. Although I am glad that they do as it makes for interesting adventures. I also liked to see Leonidas expressing curiosity about why Alisa joined the Alliance and I feel that both she and Leonidas are getting a bit softer in their views. This book continues the show the more grey side of the alliance as well.
There are some new things we learn about the world as well. Mostly pieces that flesh things out a bit more. A bit about the relic and Alycone. I also realized the galaxy is a bit smaller than I initially thought and now I kinda want a map to be able to visualize things better and get a feel for the planets and such in this part of the galaxy.
To summarize: This was another fun read. This book having a bit of a search for the hidden treasure vibe, which was quite fun. There is again plenty of action as well. I liked the few twists and reveals this book brought and how we learn more about Alisa and Leonidas. Their romance progresses a bit too, which I was happy to see. The group of character is interesting and they all seem to want different things. At times it's a bit hard to believe they all stick together, but I am glad they do as it makes for some great adventures. And with everything that happens in this book I am curious to see what the next book will bring.
June 2, 2022
I can't remember if this is the book where the character who doesn't respect the MC's boundaries in regards to telepathy is introduced or not, but for me the story takes a steep decline when that character comes aboard. The MC's inability to police her boundaries effectively irritates me and makes me less amused by her. I realize that if I were the MC the story would be over because the second time dude invaded my.mind uninvited I would have thrown him out an airlock. Her not doing so feels contrived and like author pacing bullshit to me. That is following me through to book 7, which I am just now starting.
July 30, 2021
OH THIS BOOK I LIKED. i think this is definitely my favourite so far. so much happened in this one, i enjoyed the addition of the starseer to their team, it made things interesting and he was definitely helpful. also it was nice to read about alisa interracting with tomich and the alliance. ALSO LEONIDAS AND ALISA. THE KISS. FINALLY. it was so short but it was everything to me. cant wait for more between them. im really excited to get into the rest now bc they can finally put their focus towards finding jelena which i have been waiting for!
August 9, 2019
These characters have really grown on me. I loved the action and adventure of going into this space station in the middle of nowhere. Looking forward to seeing this story unfold more in the next book.
March 5, 2022
4.25 stars
June 1, 2022
I really love this series! This was another great book in a great series. I love the humor, the dash of romance, and the non stop action!
April 1, 2024
Another enjoyable quick read. I love the character interactions, they make this a fun read along with action and story
November 29, 2025
Eventually I skipped to the epilogue. Curious to follow the tale but weary of all the obstacles and the sarcasm like clockwork from the main protagonist.
February 3, 2022
3.5 stars.
I do like that Alisa is so quick to think on her feet, even though things never seem to work out as she hoped.
I do like that Alisa is so quick to think on her feet, even though things never seem to work out as she hoped.
December 13, 2017
http://delivreenlivres.blogspot.fr/20...
Un épisode vraiment plein de mystère.
Alisa aimerais bien foncer vers l'endroit ou sa fille est retenue, mais malheureusement la personne qui détient l'info dont elle a besoin ne la lui donne pas gratuitement, il demande avant à ce qu'ils se dirigent vers une série de coordonnées qui se trouvent sur leur chemin et qui semblent donner sur ... rien du tout, un point dans le vide de l'espace.
Une fois arrivé dans la zone c'est la que les choses bizarre commencent à arriver, entre le sauvetage d'un vaisseau de pèlerins hautement irradiés, la zone de quarantaine sans raison, les pirates qui attaquent tout sans raison et la haute densité de vaisseaux de l'alliance, il est clair que ce point a une haut importance, mais pourquoi? que ce passe-t-il au milieu de rien?
Ce tome est à la fois très important pour l'histoire et en même temps un peu à coté car il concerne les personnages secondaires et plus vraiment la quête d'Alisa.
Je comprends la frustration d'Alisa, en fait dans tout ce tome on a l'impression qu'elle fait tout pour que tout se déroule de la façon la plus rapide possible, tellement elle a hâte de continuer à chercher sa fille, mais elle n'a pas le choix ici et elle est bien obligé d'aider ses passagers, non seulement pour avoir l'info sur le camp ou serait sa fille, mais aussi parce qu'il faut bien payer le carburant et les autres denrées nécessaire au voyage.
C'est sur que cette série ne plaira pas aux personnes qui cherchent de la SF hardcore ou des machins scientifiques à tout bout de champ. Ici le coté SF n'est qu'une excuse à l'aventure, et on ne se pose pas du tout de questions sur le fonctionnement des vaisseaux ou autre, ni sur la technologie des armes.
Et je crois que c'est aussi pour ça que je l'aime bien, parce que ça repose comparé à la grande majorité de la SF actuelle qui aime bien entrer dans les détails à ces sujets.
Après oui, c'est sur que c'est léger, les personnages sont bien représentés et sont vraiment au centre de l'histoire. C'est vraiment leurs interactions, les envies et besoin de chacun qui font l’intérêt et qui me donnent envie de lire la suite. J'aime bien aussi le fait que la seule romance possible ai été totalement désamorcée et du coup ça met un petit pied de nez à ceux qui s'imaginaient que ça serait l'histoire principale sous prétexte que c'est léger et humain.
Encore un bon tome, je ne me lasse pas et j'ai hâte d'avancer dans l'histoire ^^
16.5/20
Un épisode vraiment plein de mystère.
Alisa aimerais bien foncer vers l'endroit ou sa fille est retenue, mais malheureusement la personne qui détient l'info dont elle a besoin ne la lui donne pas gratuitement, il demande avant à ce qu'ils se dirigent vers une série de coordonnées qui se trouvent sur leur chemin et qui semblent donner sur ... rien du tout, un point dans le vide de l'espace.
Une fois arrivé dans la zone c'est la que les choses bizarre commencent à arriver, entre le sauvetage d'un vaisseau de pèlerins hautement irradiés, la zone de quarantaine sans raison, les pirates qui attaquent tout sans raison et la haute densité de vaisseaux de l'alliance, il est clair que ce point a une haut importance, mais pourquoi? que ce passe-t-il au milieu de rien?
Ce tome est à la fois très important pour l'histoire et en même temps un peu à coté car il concerne les personnages secondaires et plus vraiment la quête d'Alisa.
Je comprends la frustration d'Alisa, en fait dans tout ce tome on a l'impression qu'elle fait tout pour que tout se déroule de la façon la plus rapide possible, tellement elle a hâte de continuer à chercher sa fille, mais elle n'a pas le choix ici et elle est bien obligé d'aider ses passagers, non seulement pour avoir l'info sur le camp ou serait sa fille, mais aussi parce qu'il faut bien payer le carburant et les autres denrées nécessaire au voyage.
C'est sur que cette série ne plaira pas aux personnes qui cherchent de la SF hardcore ou des machins scientifiques à tout bout de champ. Ici le coté SF n'est qu'une excuse à l'aventure, et on ne se pose pas du tout de questions sur le fonctionnement des vaisseaux ou autre, ni sur la technologie des armes.
Et je crois que c'est aussi pour ça que je l'aime bien, parce que ça repose comparé à la grande majorité de la SF actuelle qui aime bien entrer dans les détails à ces sujets.
Après oui, c'est sur que c'est léger, les personnages sont bien représentés et sont vraiment au centre de l'histoire. C'est vraiment leurs interactions, les envies et besoin de chacun qui font l’intérêt et qui me donnent envie de lire la suite. J'aime bien aussi le fait que la seule romance possible ai été totalement désamorcée et du coup ça met un petit pied de nez à ceux qui s'imaginaient que ça serait l'histoire principale sous prétexte que c'est léger et humain.
Encore un bon tome, je ne me lasse pas et j'ai hâte d'avancer dans l'histoire ^^
16.5/20
July 14, 2021
They bring an antique freighter to a battle with warships. At least the "crew" has a good mix of skillsets, but leadership is always in question and acting as a unit is always sporadic. The multiple enemies somehow end up helping by fighting each other instead of demolishing Alisa's team. The characters evolve based on events in the story. Each book has a story that is complete, although with many of the same characters.
August 20, 2016
There are things I really like about this book series. The pacing is quick and nimble which makes it a fast read. The secondary characters are fully fleshed out and you like the interaction between them even if you dislike the character themselves. The world building is excellent and easy to follow. You never feel like the author had to invent something to cover a poor plot point.
There are also weak points in the series that are starting to show up. It starting to fall into a predictable rhythm. First they get into a seemingly impossible situation followed by a rescue by Leonidas. Repeat. Repeat again. This makes Alisa seem slightly incompetent and I was glad to see her become slightly more proactive by book four. I hope this trend continues. Also the overall story arc (finding her lost daughter) is moving way to slowly. It's book four and they're still working on the same lead from book one. It's moving along at the same pace as the romance where we finally get our first kiss. In book FOUR! In case that was too fast for you the author threw in another impediment between them that will have to be resolved.
These points seem minor and I still love the series and will stick with it to see some resolution (hopefully) on some of the issues. If you like the Kate Daniels series you should like this (although Kate walks the walk better). Great job on this installment.
There are also weak points in the series that are starting to show up. It starting to fall into a predictable rhythm. First they get into a seemingly impossible situation followed by a rescue by Leonidas. Repeat. Repeat again. This makes Alisa seem slightly incompetent and I was glad to see her become slightly more proactive by book four. I hope this trend continues. Also the overall story arc (finding her lost daughter) is moving way to slowly. It's book four and they're still working on the same lead from book one. It's moving along at the same pace as the romance where we finally get our first kiss. In book FOUR! In case that was too fast for you the author threw in another impediment between them that will have to be resolved.
These points seem minor and I still love the series and will stick with it to see some resolution (hopefully) on some of the issues. If you like the Kate Daniels series you should like this (although Kate walks the walk better). Great job on this installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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