Shadow Corps

Shadow Corps #1

by Justin Sloan

Death isn’t so bad if it means saving the universe.

Samantha was badass even before she learned magic. Fending for herself in the cauldron of a planet torn apart by an alien invasion taught Samantha how to kill. Ruthlessly efficient, her abilities have caught the attention of the Shadow Corps.

A group comprised of deadly warriors who focus on galactic safety, using any means necessary.

A battle-hardened warlord causing you trouble? The Shadow Corps will ruin their day.

Her first mission puts her team up against a space dragon, death reapers, and the ultimate sorcerer.

Samantha had better learn to master her alien magic, or be forced to watch her world, and many others, burn.

Shadow Corps Series:

Shadow Corps
Shadow Worlds (November 2017)
Shadow Fleet (December 2017)
Shadow Mystic (May 2019)

A Seppukarian Universe Series

Genres: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Audiobook, Science Fiction Fantasy, Space, Amazon

265 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 5, 2017

About the author

JUSTIN SLOAN wrote video games before becoming a full-time author, with credits on such games as Game of Thrones, Tales from the Borderlands, Walking Dead, and Marvel and mobile games. Now you can find his military science fiction and space superheroes books on Amazon, KU, and Audible.com. He taught Muay Thai kickboxing and Marine Corps Martial Arts, and can play three songs on the bagpipes. Justin holds advanced degrees in international relations/economics and creative writing. Oh, and he acted in movies for a bit - all small roles though.

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Reviews

[DJay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not expect this to be a LITRPG, but was delightfully surprised at it. This book was written with just enough of action, adventure and intrigue to keep me entertained. I'm looking forward to getting the rest of the series to find out what happened. Be warned. The book starts in the middle, goes back to the beginning and then continues, but it leaves you wondering what happened. The main character Samantha is a delight as to how innocent she is, but also how determined she is. If you're looking for a strong female protagonist that is coming of age and dealing with it the best way she can while knee deep in the dead, this is the book for you. As mentioned before, it has the right amount of science and magic baked into to keep you interested, but not so much that they are stepping over each other. It is a pretty good mix of just enough without going over. Seriously, this is a must read.

[Chris Evans · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. The world building here is extremely clunky AND lacking, the characters are unlikable and flat, and the magic system is really basic. The writing is also in a Young Adult Novel style. There are some interesting ideas touched upon, but they're mostly stolen from Lovecraft and used poorly. All and all there's very little to recommend this. If you like Divergent (which I very much don't) you might like this.

[Nolly Frances Sepulveda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

I liked the Authors Reclaiming Honor series and thought I'd give this story a try, well I can honestly say it was a good choice on my part. Samantha is a kick ass character and has made friends with an interesting group of people who have skills of their own to bring to their Team. I like the action, the adventure and of course the humor, Sam is fighting to save the Universe and along the way she is also trying to find her past, though just a teenager she is gaining mad skills with every right and training session. The other characters bring with them good dynamics that help strengthen the team and create a good group of friends where there were once strangers. Looking forward to the next installment.

[Jim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full review: https://girlswithguns.org/shadow-corp...

Despite the copious amount of firefights and hand-to-hand battles, I never felt particularly concerned about the safety of Samantha, or any of the team. Maybe one or two minor characters could have been killed off to give a sense of danger which seemed oddly lacking, given the copious amounts of collateral damage? But the lack of emotional investment would still likely have capped any connection.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadow Corps - a review by Rosemary Kenny

This fascinating GameLit Space Opera by Prince of Sci-fi Fantasy Justin Sloan, introduces teen MC Samantha. Feisty and fit she makes a dynamic heroine in an Earth virtually destroyed by the alien Syndicate, who employ vast armies of huge enhanced insects, The Horde, to fulfil their ambition of galactic domination, in Shadow Corps, Book 1 in his Shadow Corps series, that's sure to be a 5-star winner!
Although thus far ignorant of her ancestry, Samantha's combative excellence draws her to the 'guardians of the galaxy' who are collectively known as Shadow Corps. They hasten to recruit Samantha to join their 'David and Goliath'-type battle to bring peace to all - whatever the cost to those they perceive as evilly-intentioned in that respect. Consisting of a powerful mix of human and alien fighters, they prove a beacon of hope for Samantha and the citizens of Earth and she integrates willingly to fight against alien dragons, an unstoppable wizard and even so-called Death Reapers - and that's just the beginning.
What the Corps doesn't know about yet (as she's not sure how to control them), is that Samantha has magical powers that could change the future for good - or if things go wrong, catastrophically badly!
Which will it be? You'll have to find out by reading Shadow Corps by Justin Sloan - and the next volumes in this exciting series - don't delay, the future is waiting!

[Soo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Notes:

Currently on Audible +

- This book gets to be the first one rated less than 3 stars for 2022.
I'm in two groups on Facebook for Gamelit/LitRPG. This was one of the books recommended on there. As a rec, it's a bit of a dud.

- Solid narration, but simplistic writing that would land between Middle School in writing style and high school for some content.

- While there is leveling in the story, it's not really LitRPG. I changed the genre for the book thrice. LitRPG to Fantasy to LitRPG and then Fantasy. Except, the story is some weird mashup of sci-fi, fantasy and tiny bit of litrpg.

- Straight forward story being told to the reader. There's little to guess or question. Not a lot happened for developing the setting or characters.

[Kiril Panchev · Rating 2 out of 5]

Expected not a chilish book from the title...

[Evil Secret Ninja · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an okay science fiction book I can't say that I was overly impressed but I enjoyed the world building and the overall story saving the universe. Of course there is a mystery surrounding the main character. I did not like the LitRPG portion but I have decided that books with leveling up annoy me a bit. Overall it was decent but I don't know if I will continue the series.

[Melinda · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF. Too convoluted and choppy.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book started off so good, then the more it went on the more annoyed I got. It was trying way too hard. I also felt it threw the ‘save the universe’ out there way too fast. Every time I heard them say that I just kept snorting. The book needed time to breath, it went from one thing to the next and then the next. It didn’t let you get to know the characters, it just threw them all together.

When the main character is pretty much invincible it takes away from what they can do. Oh killed a load of creatures? Easy. Shot laser beams from your butt? Easy. It takes the achievement of the training, getting better and just making it pointless.

The video game aspects were good to a degree. The leveling up the armor and weapons were unique and great. But then it just felt like again you get to a specific point and there is no danger involved. You don’t feel scared for the main character that they could possibly die.

Hands down to the narrator, them boom sounds were brilliant. Made me smile every time.

[2percentright · Rating 2 out of 5]

wasn't able to finish the book. couldn't get past the stupidity of the video game aspects being real.

[Joey · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 58%
First DNF I've ever logged on goodreads.
man this book was so promising and I can't even finish it because it sucks so bad. A lot of my dislike for this book can be chalked up to the genre (LitRPG?? didn't even know that was a genre.) not being my taste, though I love sci-fi so I was really disappointed in how... Disappointing this book is. The world-building is weird and the dialog is SO... BAD... Like it feels like dialog you'd find in a seventh grader's first draft. I feel like the author tried to make the stakes high at some points but the action and characters both fall super flat, so the stakes that were there didn't hit. And were they really even stakes if I wasn't afraid for the characters and knew they'd all make it out??
I really dislike all the comments made about Samantha being hit on when she's sixteen, even though most of them were like "Of course I'm not hitting on her/I'm not attracted to you/Kiddo" and stuff!! I DO like that Napalm WASN'T hitting on her, but I don't like that it was even... a thing needed to be brought up... the book felt so entirely gross.
Let's get this straight. I'm a queer woman. Carma sucked and made me uncomfortable. Why was she written so weirdly predatory???? Is that how the author views lesbians?? And the whole men/women civil war on her planet, where's the trans ppl in her species??? I know the book isn't about her and her species and stuff, but it still felt so weird and gross that there was a full civil war between men and women with basically zero nuance. Gross gross grossssss I was so excited when she was introduced as lesbian basically, and then quickly got disappointed the more we saw of her bc she was just... weird. Wish she wasn't written awful like that.
I was really excited to read this book because I felt like it'd be good to read sci-fi after three awful romances... Nahh, at least I could FINISH those three books. It felt like worse than pulling teeth to read this book. It was boring with boring characters and boring unbelievable dialog and relationships and. Mannnn the only chapter of this book that held my interest was the very first one when she was on earth, oddly enough!!
I would make a cleaner review if I cared enough, but considering I couldn't even force my way through the rest of the book, you get this rambly vent review. I didn't even cover all the things that I didn't like 🧍‍♀️. Whatever. Less than one star. So surface-level and boring and easy. Would be better if there was actual danger.

[Jay Kay · Rating 1 out of 5]

There’s no “Lit” in “LitRPG”

I was blissfully unaware of the term “LitRPG” until this book. Apparently, a lot of people seem to think the stories their teenage DMs made up on the fly during their DnD sessions turn into literature as soon as someone just writes them down. Reading this book, a quote by Leslie Lamport came to mind instead: “Writing is nature’s way of letting you know how sloppy your thinking is.” The only thing worthy to think about is how authors like Sloane became such cargo cultists. Are they really unaware that the skill systems in RPGs are a numerical approximation of the changes that the characters experience during their adventures? That they are meant to help people structure the stories instead of being the story?

I really tried hard to find something well done about this book, but it just falls short on every aspect, every spark of an interesting idea is smothered in bad execution, bad story telling, bad character development. Example: The “Shadow Corps” finds out the training simulations where they “level up” their weapons and armor (that idea is so stupid, but bear with me here) are actual portals that send them to far off worlds, where they indiscriminately slaughter aliens for XP. Sounds morally ambiguous? Like something that might throw some shade on the would-be saviors and their leader and lead to an interesting twist? Nah. “Kolack” are bad, and slaughtering them in their homes is perfectly fine, no worries.

Before you read this book, just go for a walk instead. Or clean the bathroom. Or, you know, whatever, your life’s too short for this crap.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Preparing to use the jump gate set up for Earth access, Hadrian had a flash vision of blasters and ships crashing, so he immediately informed the Captain that they should prepare for battle. Knowing that Hadrian could see possible future events, despite the empty space around them, the Captain gave the order to prepare for battle. Their surprise offensive maneuver gave no chance to the unprepared enemy to react and they left the ruin behind.

Samantha’s visions came in nightmares and flashes in her mind. She had seen an alien armada unlike anything they had fought in the past. The Syndicate would be crushed. She knew she would have a part to play somehow in what was to come. And those skills will put her in more danger. Is she ready to face what her future?

As always, this author is a powerful writer who can whisk the reader away into another world and build it up around him! Hadrian and Samantha immediately draw attention with an amazing skill that might give Earth and the galaxy some hope of survival against a mighty enemy threat. I highly recommend this one! You won’t want to miss the action and excitement that never lets up!

[John Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this story started off quite well. Started to lose me midway through where I really just wanted to rush it to end. But then finished up quite strong!
The characters are REALLY well done. The Main Character Sam is, thankfully, head strong and determined. Unlike alot of people who get suddenly forced into a strange new scenario with unique powers, Sam actually welcomes it and doesnt doubt her self. Shes quite refreshing.
The rest of the team, honestly, at first I didnt quite understand why THESE people were part of this "elite" save the galaxy group. Luckily by the time you get to the final battle they really show why theyre special.

Its probably not a sequel Id pick up, im pretty satisfied with how it ended even though its obvious theres more, i just enjoyed this part of the ride and think the rest will continue without me.

I definitely recommend though for a strong, no nonsesne, main character and a story that I think most will be engaged with and want to follow for a couple of books.

[Lasciel · Rating 2 out of 5]

There are some cool ideas in this book, cloaks with powers, magical armour and interesting space aliens. The story itself is lacking coherence, it doesn't flow very well or make much sense between action scenes.

There are LITRPG elements to this but they feel hollow and underdeveloped. This is also true of the characters, mainly due to pretty basic dialogue. The main character is meant to be a teenager, so a little simplicity in language is expected, but you'd expect the adults n the book to be a touch better spoken. Also if you're going to have character growth in a book it needs rationale, and not just "I'd do anything for my team".

Lack of danger is a prevalent theme here too. It feels like you're watching a video game. One of the main characters is injured severely, but this is brushed over so much he may as well have had a papercut. He was up and doing things with no delay.

Definitely needs work, but has the potential to be a good story.

[Tony Calder · Rating 2 out of 5]

What was I expecting from this book? For it to be the start of a series of action-adventure sci-fi stories about a small group of heroes fighting against overwhelming odds. Did it deliver? To an extent, but not very well.

What wasn't I expecting? For it to be a YA story and introduce LitRPG elements into the story. The story being at a YA level wasn't really a problem - I read a reasonable amount of YA stuff and it's ok, although this was pretty basic and lacking in nuance. I found the LitRPG elements - characters gaining skill points to spend, and powering up their armour and weapons - pretty clunky and really didn't fit well into the story, although it did become a major part of the story.

There is a five-book series that precedes but I don't think it's necessary to read it first (I haven't). The story sets up some big mysteries to be answered in the remaining 3 books of the series, but I'm not sure that I will continue with the series.

[Crissy Moss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to say this is more game-lit then litRPG since it has some game mechanics, but they are ancillary to the actual story. The game mechanics are the suits they wear. Buy killing creatures they level up their equipment and can gain skills.

The actual story and world building was interesting. A lot of subterfuge, questions, mysteries, and more questions, only some of which are answered by the end of the book. I felt like the guy they were fighting against was poorly fleshed out. The reason behind his actions never got explained very well, and it just ended up being "bad guy is doing bad things" instead of a more concrete reasoning behind everything. I know that's to make you want to read the next book, but it kind of didn't do that for me.

A good listen for what it was, but I don't know if I'll continue with this series.

[RJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hadrian believed he was the last of his kind. He was a powerful being commanding the power to manipulate matter. He has been called to save the world from The Syndicate. When one of his kind died, the other would absorb their power. Hadrian commanded much power. On Earth, Samantha Quinn was a member of the Last Remaining Resistance (LRR). Before the successful invasion of The Syndicate, the resistance had fought with The Space Corp of Marines, but now it was just the LRR. Samantha also had visions. Her’s were similar to Hadrian’s, as she foresaw another, larger Alien invasion coming and the part she must play to save the world. Samantha had powers as well, the ability to concentrate and manipulate matter. Samantha needs to get her magic on! Carstract and the giant Space Dragon would be greater combatants than anticipated. They must save the City of Elders.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a post-apocalyptic world, teenager Samantha learned to fight at an early age. She’s so skilled that she’s recruited to an elite team who must battle a formidable enemy bent on destroying the universe. Samantha’s reluctant to leave earth as a war for survival rages there as well. Once she agrees, however, she realizes that her training is just beginning.

Samantha’s one of the fiercest and most determined teenage warriors I’ve seen in young adult genre fiction and her teammates are equally strong. Secrets and a little backstory are nicely woven into this fast-paced story. It also contains some humorous banter. Although the main plot is resolved, secrets that will have a major impact on Samantha are not revealed, so readers will have to read the second installment, I expect. An enjoyable read.

[Leslie Baptiste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent first solo book from the author.

When I first started reading this book I realized I would not be able to put it down. I read the book into settings. The only reason why that was I had to get some sleep. I have read the authors collaborations as well. I found this fast-paced, refreshing, with a great list of characters. The armor and tech great, so is the main protagonist. Can’t wait for the next book I suggest anybody who likes science-fiction what a touch of magic space travel and great all-around characters will enjoy this book like I said eagerly await Ing the next one that’s why gave it five out of five.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great new follow on series

I wasnt too sure about the the previous seppukarian series as the ending was a little too forced for my liking.
However this has started off the same as the first seppurakarian series but had a more polished and narrow narrative focused on Sam , Quinn's daughter, this i think works out a lot better as this was my favourite character. No spoilers but the breadth of where this story can go is a lot better without being too confusing with time loops but fits into the universe wonderfully. Loving how this has started so planning on staying the course good job JS

[Kristoffer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting, and there were some cool gamelit like elements later on in the story. Despite there being a number of alien races in the book, they weren't very unique. They all acted like humans act. I read some Peter F Hamilton the other day, so perhaps I am just too used to extremely unique aliens. If you want to read about unique alien races, read his books, but if you want a fun story about a small group of individuals working to fight off a big evil, this book is for you. This book was a fun read, and I look forward to more books in the series.

[Jonathan Pettit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, action-packed sci-fi adventure! Samantha is a non-typical human teenager fighting in the war-torn zone of Earth against an alien invasion. She finds out that there is an even larger threat to the galaxy so she leaves Earth to help start a team to fight the menace. Lots of action and adventure resides in this novel. The characters are entertaining and each has their own quirks. This book was a good start to the series. I'll keep this one on my list. Great narration by Tess Irondale for the audible version.

[Michael Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Good EOTW/Galaxy Space Opera

This is an enjoyable romp as readers follow the adventures of 16 year old Samantha as she fights aliens as part of the last resistance on Earth and, later, as she fights evil throughout the galaxy. In some aspects, this is a Coming-of-Age novel; in others a sword and sorcery novel. As expected from any space opera novel, this book is action-packed excitement. More unusual for space opera is a female protagonist.
VERY GOOD CROSS-GENRE NOVEL

[Michelle VanDaley · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is based on the Audiobook. Shadow Corp follows Samantha's journey from earth and beyond. It is a thrilling action packed ride with in depth characters and descriptive world building. I was completely captivated from start to finish. My fave line being "Holy Eggo Waffle Balls". The narrator was fantastic bringing the characters and story to life. I look forward to more in this series and from this author.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

While much of this story is teen oriented, and much of the social/sexual interaction is couched in teenage blushing and innuendo, the story itself is very straightforward and easy to follow. It has a lot of action sequences and is filled with interesting fantasy abilities. The characters are well drawn and quite believable. A well written youths oriented sci-fi adventure, this novel will be an enjoyable read for any age. I received an ARC and this is my honest review of this novel.

[Vicky Camp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great action story.

This book is full of fighting and learning how to fight and why to fight. I liked the touch of gaming as well as the lack of a great big ego clash. The team is well put together and seems like it will stand the test of a full series. I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Cenna Lipscomb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!!!

Engaging, excellent world building. Characters are relatable and have unique personalities and their own issues to deal with. A lot of action which is right up my alley. No boring moments but a few questions left unanswered for my curious mind. Over all I recommend reading.

[Terry Marine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid three stars. Writer is good, but a little formulaic. Samantha is a little too narcissistic, and cocky. Story employs something like superhero powers, which like magic, move the story into a genre which is not my favorite. I don't think I'll read further into this series. If you like sci-fi action, check out M. D. Cooper. She's a little better than this Justin Sloan.