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Kill the bad guys. Save the Galaxy. All in a hard day’s work.

Eddie and Julianna are hell bent on tracking down Vas and making him pay for his crimes. He’s armed and dangerous, and to make matters worse, he’s on the hunt for a devastating weapon that could bring destruction to the Federation and all its people.

Someone has to stop him.

Eddie and Julianna, along with her trusty E.I. named Pip, must seek out the expertise of specialists who can break into the enemy’s network. That’s the key to beating Vas. They’ll also need more pilots and better ships. 

But as Ghost Squadron grows, so do the dangers on the fringe of Federation space. They still don’t know who is behind all the attacks—the one pulling the Brotherhood’s strings—but no matter what, they’re going to bring this faceless enemy down. 

Whatever it takes. 

Experience this exciting military sci-fi saga and the latest addition to the expanded Kurtherian Gambit Universe. If you’re a fan of Mass Effect, Firefly, or Star Wars, you’ll love this riveting new space opera.

*NOTE: If cursing is a problem, then this might not be for you.


218 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 3, 2017

219 people are currently reading
152 people want to read

About the author

Sarah Noffke

234 books1,478 followers
Sarah Noffke is a prolific USA Today Best-Selling Author, who writes YA and NA science fiction, fantasy, paranormal and urban fantasy. Most of her stories draw on her experiences living on the West Coast, growing up in Texas or traveling the world.

Her passion for art, culture and literature drives her to create stories that are full of whimsey, humor and philosophy. Her books appeal to readers who enjoy an escape, a bit of magic mixed with science and the unexpected--like a dragon who tells bad jokes and has a video game addiction, but fights for justice.

Noffke's books are top rated and best-sellers on Amazon. Her books are available in paperback, audio and in Spanish, Portuguese, German, Dutch and Italian.

To stay up to date with Sarah, please visit her website and subscribe to her newsletter: www.sarahnoffke.com

For a complete list of books by Sarah and a suggested reading order, please see: www.sarahnoffke.com/reading-guide/

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Ms. Just One More Book  (Kris Miller).
154 reviews16 followers
December 5, 2017
The Brotherhood's galactic war rages on, leaving casualties in its wake, with innocent civilians either being killed or enslaved. Having successfully evaded being captured, Vas is reassembling the Brotherhood to secure a weapon that could take out the Federation forever. Meanwhile, Ghost Squadron is hot on his trail, traveling to planets overrun by outlaw gangs and planning the heist of the century. The second book in the Ghost Squadron series hits the ground running from the get-go. Witty dialogue along with a true sense of camaraderie amongst the crew, makes for an organic setting. The addition of new characters, and further development of previous ones, creates a well rounded cast. Fast- paced with tons of action, EXPLORATION: Age of Expansion is a captivating space adventure that will leave you begging for more!

~ Kris Miller, TopShelf Reviews
Profile Image for Jim.
1,229 reviews50 followers
February 4, 2018
Something is just off in these two books. I don’t know what it is, but it’s just kind of irritating reading them some times. Oh, there’s nothing wrong with the writing and that may be the problem. The two main characters, Edward (Eddie) Teach and Julianna Fregin are just too perfect or something. Teach is an ex-Federation Marine or something like that while Julianna is some what of a mystery. She’s almost a cyborg, part machine and part human. She also hundreds of years old, but doesn’t look much older, if that, than Eddie Teach. The cover of the book shows Eddie looking older if I was to guess, but Julianna can run rings around Teach and never loses a fight.

These two have been taken in by General Lance Reynolds. He’s the commander of the Federation’s military, but finds himself caught in a unreasonable Alliance agreement which makes it impossible for him to use the Federation military to stop what he knows as upcoming trouble for the Federation and it’s allies. So, he’s formed the Ghost Squadron consisting of two, now four people, Eddie, Julianna, Lars (a former Trid Brotherhood member), and Doctor A’Din Hatcherik, an alien resembling a squid. They are now going about recruiting additional members to their Ghost Squadron while at the same time trying to accomplish some highly dangerous missions.

And that’s what’s so unusual about this story. They accomplish every single mission they set out to do with little or no trouble. They have an invisibility cloak for their “Q-Ship” which happens to be faster than anything in known space, they have personal invisibility cloaks and tiny marble sized hand-grenades all made by Dr. Hatcherik, a mechanical/scientific genius. Every time Eddie and Julianna go on a mission, they have very little trouble. It’s in, grab what they want and back out to their invisible ship, then back home to their home base aboard the ArchAngel. Mission accomplished, let’s go have a beer!

The conversations between all the main characters is always very civil. They seldom cuss nor really get angry at each other. Eddie and Julianna are always together on a mission, and then back home on the ArchAngel, but they never seem to notice that one is a guy and the other is a girl. It’s like they’re brother and sister and that’s boring. Oh, and now, they have bullet proof armor courtesy of Dr. Hatcherik.

People that do this kind of work for a living aren’t normal. They kill without remorse and they don’t seem to worry about each other getting killed. They just do the mission, always successful or they claim it’s successful and then go about doing whatever comes next. I think it’s just too clean! There’s just too much apple pie and I’m good; you’re good in these stories. It makes me uncomfortable.

I don’t know if I’ll be reading more in this series. It seems that whatever General Lance Reynolds wants done, will get done and everybody will live happily ever after. Not the real way things happen.
Profile Image for Rabid Reader.
959 reviews16 followers
December 5, 2017
This is a great second book in the Ghost Squadron series. There is lots of action, humorous repartee and a wide range of unusual characters. The crew continues to grow both in size and complexity. Pip is one of my favourite characters and I look forward to seeing how Hatch will help him evolve in the future. Eddie is a somewhat immature, laissez-faire character but he is talented, has his teams back and manages to find solutions to gets the job done. He contrasts nicely with the seriousness of the rest of the crew and his less than perfect personality adds a touch of realism. Each member is growing in depth and you can’t help but be invested in their success. I look forward to more in this series
Profile Image for Stephanie Runion.
358 reviews
December 15, 2017
Great follow up to the first book in this series. The Ghost Squadron Series is a fast paced story with interesting characters that are full of quirks.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,494 reviews10 followers
April 13, 2022
When I started reading this, book two of the Ghost Squadron, I actually breathed a sigh of relief - because, within the first few words I really engaged with the characters!

I'm not sure what it was about book one that wouldn't let me do that, especially as the plot line was so good, but I'm just so happy that, in this book, I have that mojo back again.

I've been trying to do as Sarah Noffke, the main author, asked in her notes, and think who my favourite characters are, and why, and I had to agree with so many of her other fans, when I say that Hatch is top of the list!

I don't know whether it's because he's such an awesome scientist, or whether it's because he's so vulnerable, emotionally., that he appeals to me - or, maybe, because both are so true of him.

The fact that he resembles one of Earth's Octopus or Squid, makes him more interesting to me, especially when he can do so many different things at once - well, when he doesn't think he's being observed, that is.

He plays at being a little standoffish, but he is really eager to fit in, to be one of the gang - which, of course, he's an integral part of, even if he doesn't see it at all! Lol

Next in line, is Julianna, who I read about originally, when she was partnered with the AI, Ricky Bobby - I'd really love to know what happened with him - as she shows a great sense of humour, without going over the top, and knows how, and when, to relax from the pressures of her job. But she's also totally serious about keeping her fellow team safe, while making sure as many baddies get their comeuppance.

I've really got to like Lars, too, with his determination to be as good as possible, to help his fellow team members do their job, and protect the Federation., despite how he had started on the baddies' side, He might be new at the game, but is determined to give his all.

Next in line comes Harley. Yes, I know he's 'just' a dog, but he does vital work on the ship, keeping the crew happy, while living his best doggy life.

Next comes Eddie. I know, he's behind the dog, but there's still something about his character that just grates on me! Yes, he's loyal, courageous, and determined to do his best, so I admire him for that. But his overly carefree attitude tends to grate a little - or, maybe, it's his version of humour? I'm not sure, but it's put him behind the cute dog in my eyes! Lol

Chester and Mollie, although new on the team, seem to be perfect examples of their types, and I'm looking forwards to - hopefully - learning more about them, as I think they are great additions to the team.

Then, finally, there's Jack.

Jack is someone I still know too little about to really know what to think of him, as yet. I'm hoping that other books will give us more background on him, and also that he really, genuinely, is as trustworthy as Lance believes!

So, now that I've finished, and thoroughly enjoyed, this second book of the series, my reading list tells me that I can go straight on to book three of this series: Evolution!

Hopefully, some of the questions I have about the team will be answered there 😉
1,065 reviews11 followers
July 31, 2018
Title: Exploration: Age of Expansion
Author: Sarah Noffke and Michael anderle
Publisher: LMBPN Publishing
ISBN: b077XKPWNK
Buy Link: https://www.audible.com/pd/Sci-Fi-Fan...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Ghost Squadron 2
Kill the bad guys. Save the Galaxy. All in a hard day’s work. 
Eddie and Julianna are hell-bent on tracking down Vas and making him pay for his crimes. He’s armed and dangerous, and to make matters worse, he’s on the hunt for a devastating weapon that could bring destruction to the Federation and all its people.
Someone has to stop him.
Eddie and Julianna, along with her trusty E.I. named Pip, must seek out the expertise of specialists who can break into the enemy’s network. That’s the key to beating Vas. They’ll also need more pilots and better ships.
But as Ghost Squadron grows, so do the dangers on the fringe of Federation space. They still don’t know who is behind all the attacks - the one pulling the Brotherhood’s strings - but no matter what, they’re going to bring this faceless enemy down. 

Total Score: 5/5


Summary:
They have down it again. I love the interaction between Edward (Blackbeard) and Julianna (Strongarm) as they along with their teammates to protect humans against others who would hurt or destroy them. Eddie’s irreverent almost comical behavior at first seems at odds with his superman like belief in protecting other, but the they combine into a fascinating character who leads the plot as it unfolds. Don’t forget Lars who joined the crew when he turned against the Brotherhood to help them thus making a place for himself in the crew. Not to forget PIP, an EI, and the rest of the unique crew rounding out this fun sci-fi book and series.

Loved the audiobook and can’t wait to see what happens next. The narrator does a wonderful job capturing the unique flare of each character.
Profile Image for Elena Alvarez Dosil.
869 reviews14 followers
June 23, 2018
My original Exploration: Age of Expansion audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

The Ghost Squadron has new needs and therefore more members are required. Their new mission is finding Vas and the truth about a powerful weapon that could bring the Federation to its knees.

This was another exciting and fast-paced story. We meet again the same characters as in the previous book, but there are also new additions. They all have different personalities and different quirks, but one thing is for sure: there will not be a moment of respite… except for when they take a break and enjoy some strong drinks.

The mood is again a light one, courtesy of Eddie, and the never-ending banter among the crew, but will not impede the evolution of some of the characters. I especially enjoyed Pip’s remarks and his contributions to the team.

It was a funny and entertaining listen but I missed some more character development, which would have allowed me to connect better to the characters. I think this book may work great for those in search of adventures and a light read, but for those who like the stories focused on the characters, there are some things lacking.

Chris Abernathy’s narration is perfect for this series. His casual style matches the lightness of the story, even though there are very serious things at stake here. I am glad that we see less of General Lance Reynolds, since Abernathy’s screaming when interpreting the General was a bit too irritating for me. For the rest, the character’s interpretations were spot on, and they all were distinguishable and brought to life thanks to Abernathy’s talent.
229 reviews3 followers
December 10, 2018
This is the second book I’ve read/listened to by the collaboration of these authors. This book is much better than the first. Apparently Sara Noffke has more involvement in this book and the remainder of the series.

Julianna is an enhanced human soldier and she’s kick ass. She’ll let others have their share of the action, but once they are ineffective, she cleans up. Eddie is a sarcastic, fly by seat of his pants kinda guy. Hatch is an Octopus-like being who’s the innovator and builds them all kinds of ships and weapons that are unmatched. There are other equally, diverse characters in their crew. They all get into many conflicts and squeeze out of them due to their expertise, luck, and Hatch’s toys. Which is good, because it’s up to them to stop Vas and save the galaxy.

This is the second book I’ve listened to by this narrator ( Chris Abernathy) there was improvement with the narration too. Eddie does not yell as much when talking. Hatch’s voice is still gravelly and sounds like he’s yelling but it seemed more subdued. It seems whenever Chris uses the gravelly style voice, the character also has the drill-Sargent yell. Julianna’s voice isn’t always distinct, so occasionally I’d think it was Eddie speaking. He has good cadence when reading, but the voices need work. This won’t stop me from listening to more in this series. I am enjoying the story.

There are no explicit sex scenes, or excessive violence. There is some swearing.

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Please feel free to comment on whether you found my review helpful.

Story 4/5
Narration 3/5
Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
596 reviews8 followers
April 15, 2018
Whatever needs to get done, will get done! I am really engaged in this series. The first book had me hooked at the beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed Exploration with all the crazy stunts and gadgets that the crew continues to get. There are lots of over the top stunts and it is very action packed which, if you are like me, will keep you glued to a book. The difference between this book and the previous is that there are a bunch of “smaller” type missions that the crew has to carry out to gather more intel and additional crew members. While these kept me on my toes I felt it was missing a little something with the buildup of the “big” mission. The crew members are all different and the witty banter between them all is incredible. The writing is awesome and the world building, or space building, is incredible. You can feel how close the crew are coming together and being more of a family unit. I am in no way discouraged about how the series will continue and am jumping into the next book soon. I can’t wait to see what happens with this rag tag Ghost Squadron and the crazy stunts that they are sure to get in to!
3,970 reviews14 followers
September 9, 2018
( Format : Audiobook )
"Falling down is key, as well as getting up."
Although billed as military science fiction, and, yes, the crew of Archangel are fighting their way through the multiverse, this has the feel more of a space romp. Captained by a rather juvenile personality, even if he's a dependable, hard fighting, hard drinking rogue, and an exceedingly old, but ever young and beautiful, genetically modified woman, given the right weapons they can conquer with ease any foe they encounter. And given the weapons they are. The hardware comes virtue of a genius, eight armed inventor engineer and more cerebral assistance is boosted in this episode with the addition of two new recruits: a super hacker and a female archeologist with a knowledge of numerous intergalactic languages. There are battles but concentration is on fun characters and lots of drinks at the bar in between.

Narration by Chris Abernathy is very good, with many character voices to perform, each one individual and sometimes outrageous. He moves along at a fine pace, echoing the text faithfully.
This is a fun series to hear. So get out the nachos and settle down for a relaxing, galaxy saving listen.
Profile Image for Beverly Laude.
2,258 reviews45 followers
July 15, 2018
What a fun, entertaining book! I love Sarah Noffke's books and was eager to see what she would do with a sci-fi series. I haven't been disappointed!

Edward Teach (Blackbeard) and Juliana (Strongarm) are in search of more team members to add to the Ghost Squadron in order to battle bad guys and save the universe! Lots of quick and witty repartee, tons of action and wonderful world building abound! Adventure, aliens, distant worlds, a genetically enhanced human, AI, card games and drinks.....need I say more?

The Squadron is still in search of the villainous Vas and enlist the help of a linguist/communications officer and a computer hacker to find and stop him. And, now we have a pet/mascot, Harley! But, where's the cat? Lars and Hatch are still an important part of the group, as well as Pip and Archangel. I feel like I am a part of their little group and look forward to continuing this series!

The narrator does a great job and his work really adds a lot to the enjoyment of the book.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
2,097 reviews22 followers
May 10, 2019
More danger, fast action, adventure as the crew takes on a new member, things don’t always look as they seem. There never seems to be an end to the brotherhood as they try to take over making slaves out of good man. This was thrilling, exciting and at times keeps you on the edge of your seat. Many surprises some good, some not so good as Eddie and Jewels take on the Trid helping the underdog that they have control over.

The narrator does a good job, I really like his character voices and the emotion he brings to the audio. The characters voices go well and seem to fit the characters. I can really hear the power they hold, true emotions and the danger they are going through. No repeating of voice, no volume changes, no background noises. His normal voice is very pleasant to listen to, he knows how to really pull the listener in bring excitement and thrills to the audio.
Profile Image for 〰️Beth〰️.
815 reviews62 followers
December 10, 2017
Three and a half stars

It is still early in this off shoot series in the KG universe but normally I read KG books front to back in a sitting. I could not keep focused on this one, partly due to lack of interest in characters and slow plot. Also if in the past there were implants for languages then why can't anyone especially Jules not talk to Harley...no speaking parts but best character.
Profile Image for Holly Lenz.
928 reviews2 followers
August 1, 2018
Exploration is an entertaining space opera that is part of the Kurtherian universe. It is a fun story- think Star Trek with cursing. This is the second book in the series, and while it's better if you read the first book first, you can enjoy this book independently as well. The narrator of the audiobook does a pretty good job, even though he can't pull off a female voice. His narration brings out the humor in the story.
223 reviews2 followers
September 24, 2021
Another interesting addition

This one follows the pattern adopted by the authors of advancing the overall story while giving you a good tale, showing growth of the characters, both human, alien, and electronic, of providing interesting characterizations, locations, etc.
They have found a formula which works, and manage to keep you returning to see what new twists or turns they may create
165 reviews
December 5, 2017
Woohoo!

I was a bit confused about Ricky Bobby but the author notes cleared it up. Wow I am really liking this series and I can't wait till Hatch figures out that shield. I'm also hoping that the man in the hat finally gets his come uppins. Thanks for another great installment. BTW my favorite character is Archangel AI.
Profile Image for Roger.
5,608 reviews28 followers
April 24, 2018
My second read from the collaborative efforts of authors Sarah Noffke & Michael Anderle. In the beginning, the pace slows down but the tension ramps up only to speed up again. Well-written with well-developed, memorable characters. An exciting, enjoyable read. Narrator Chris Abernathy again adds greatly to the book’s enjoyment. I can’t wait for Ghost Squadron #3.
Profile Image for Gaileen Crowell.
171 reviews
May 19, 2018
This is the bomb!

Love the great characters and their interactions. My favorite is Teach with is slam hang attitude, and his sneaky care for others That he tries to keep hidden. Recommended for anyone who loves space opera and beating snarky aliens at their own games. Happy reading.





Profile Image for Julie.
938 reviews
July 5, 2018
Lots of action

This series is great. It is so full of action that it never gets boring. I really enjoy the characters and the way all the new ones are getting pulled in. So far my favorites are Eddie and Harley. I am very much looking forward to the next story to see who else they pull and if they catch the bad guy.
278 reviews
March 16, 2022
A Great Read

I'm loving this series. The development of the characters and great action only leave you wanting more. I am truly excited to continue this series and eventually go back to the beginning of the Kutherian Gambit. Looks like I'll be busy for a while. Thanks to Sarah for recommending I start here.
Profile Image for George  Lawson.
515 reviews1 follower
December 5, 2017
Great story and characters

Love interplay between Jules and Eddy. Well developed characters with strong personalities. The addition and Lars is plus. Looking forward to more from this bunch.
49 reviews
December 10, 2017
I love a good adventure

Really enjoyed. Book two is even better than one. The new characters, Chester and Marilla, are good adds. The chase scene with Chester was hilarious. As to my favorite it is a toss-up between Juliana and Hatch.
24 reviews2 followers
December 14, 2017
The Adventure Continues

My favorite character is Lars. He is making the greatest progress as a character, of course he also has the furthest to go. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Veronica.
1,013 reviews5 followers
May 7, 2018
Action delivered!

Sarah has delivered another action-packed novel with some interesting twists and turns. Who is behind all these attacks and plans against the Federation? The ends book is going o be crazy, I'm sure. Crazy in a good way!
Profile Image for Tora Williamsen-berry.
15 reviews
April 30, 2018
New and Shiney

Great fun in a well established alternative universe.

Now I’m going to have to actually make a Baba Yaga’s Revenge to drink - the author has much to answer for.

Oh, and why has Harley not been Nanocyte upgraded?

Y’all need to read this with drinks and Nachos.
Profile Image for Debra Stubbins.
334 reviews
March 28, 2022
10 Stars

A very thrilling and captivating read that sucks you in you the very last word. Action, fighting, shooting, explosions… what more could you ask for!
Absolutely recommend reading. Bring on book 3
543 reviews2 followers
December 4, 2017
Great story

Thanks for another great story. I can't wait to read book 3. Best wishes for the continued success of The Ghost Squadron series .
Profile Image for Alastar.
510 reviews
December 8, 2017
Enjoyable

This story did have more fun and Julianna got a little more screen time, she is still not flying cause it might just Eddie's feelings. I have enjoyed reading Hatch insult Eddie. I keep hoping that eventually Julianna will return to herself and stop acting like a happy sidekick and being the squads muscle. She was a damn good fighter pilot not some tag-a-along.
Profile Image for Wanda binz.
817 reviews6 followers
December 7, 2017
Bravo

Bravo you guys rock! Fantastic story great writing wonderful characters. My favorite is Lars or Eddie. Julianna is my hero. The intrigue has just gotten goooodd. So ENJOY
Profile Image for Lois Alston.
1,864 reviews3 followers
December 9, 2017
Outstanding story

Full of excitement, adventure, discovery, and new friends. The maturation of Pip. Finally finding your true enemy and getting a new boss.
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