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Undying Mercenaries #9
Dark World
Two expanding interstellar powers are about to meet in battle. After the collapse of the Cephalopod Kingdom, Humanity claimed the three hundred rebellious worlds they left behind. But many light years away on the far side of the disputed region, a rival power has begun to move. They're stealing our planets, one at a time. Earth Command decides to invade the center of the frontier to set up an advanced base. The mission to DARK WORLD is highly classified and deadly. Legion Varus spearhead’s the effort, and James McGill journeys to the stars again. How many ships do they have? How advanced is their tech? No one knows, but the campaign takes an unexpected turn immediately. What was supposed to be a snatch-and-grab turns into a bloodbath. McGill dies over and over again, but some battles must be won, even if it means perma-death. DARK WORLD is the ninth book in the Undying Mercenaries Series.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2018
1319 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
B.V. Larson
134 books1,529 followersBrian Larson is an American science fiction and fantasy author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 17, 2018
Whenever I want to take a break from the very serious nature of space warfare and all that rigid military organizational stuff, I read one of these Undying Mercenaries books. They are so different from most other stories that I would have to admit that this series is one of my most favorite.
To my delight, we’re back with Centurion James McGill, Legion Varus warrior. Now that does sound impressive, especially when you realize that after all the stuff James McGill has gotten himself into and out of, he’s still an officer in the Legion. If you’ve followed this series at all, you know that McGill does what he thinks is right in situations where he has no choice but to rely on his own thinking. Most of the decisions he makes in those instances, are disastrous, for him and every one else, but they do work out better than the original choice!
This time, it’s not going to go any different. Right off the bat, McGill finds himself on the wrong side of the former Imperator Galina Turov. Having just come from a mass Legion Varus officers call, he saw Drusus, his long time friend, promoted to Praetor, a rank that would take him out of direct command of the Legion, but would allow him to appoint whomever he desired to the leadership of said Legion. To everyone’s surprise, he demoted Imperator Turov down to Tribune and promoted Tribune Deech up to Imperator, clearly switching their previous roles. Whatever his reasoning, it was terribly wrong. Unfortunately, our James McGill couldn’t see how wrong it was so he was one of the loudest in cheering the announcements of these changes by Drusus.
So, the first thing McGill gets to do is go see his new (old) Tribune, Galina Turov. She’s obviously not happy with the turn of events so she does what she usually does and takes it out on those around her. In a private meeting with Winslade, Evelyn Thompson, and McGill, Tribune Turov gives out her punishment by using rank awards. What she does to each is somewhat surprising, but not clearly so. Anyway, I will tell you that James McGill didn’t come out on the good end. He’s now back to an Adjunct from his previous Centurion position. But, McGill isn’t as enamored with rank as is Tribune Turov and the rest of the brass. He always does what he wants to do even though it might be way above his authority. And this story doesn’t work any differently.
Legion Varus has a secret mission that only their Legion is involved in or knows anything about. It’s so secret that Praetor Drusus told all the Legion Varus officers about it at the same time and also told them that if the mission details were leaked, everyone of the Legion Varus officers would be permed. For those of you who don’t remember, Earth has a “revival” machine. It’s alien tech that allows soldiers to be “re-born” or re-created out of bio-mass and recorded memory engrams. As in all these stories, Legion soldiers who get killed, no matter how gruesome, are brought back to life as long as they can be certified as dead. Of course, senior officers have the authority as to who and when a soldier gets revived and if a soldier has done something really, really bad, they don’t get revived, ever and are considered permed or permanently dead. Jame McGill was supposed to have been permed so many times I’ve lost count. That count does go up in this book!
Now, don’t get the idea that Adjunct McGill is a bad soldier, far from it. He’s the one you want in a tight situation because he’ll figure a way out. He takes very good care of his men and doesn’t have a problem terminating anyone that gets in his way (knowing that they’ll be revived somewhere else!). Yet he always finds himself getting the blame for the worst disasters that happen in the Legion. This time he’s accused of permanently wiping an entire Legion; no not Legion Varus, but Legion Iron Eagles. He’s also accused of almost destroying an entire planet, but that’s a bit of a stretch. He’s sentenced to be permed once again, but, as usual, Jame McGill has some interesting videos of his actions that just might save his butt again, or maybe not!
There is certain humor in these stories that I really like. You don’t often get to read about someone realizing that their death would be a good outcome of a battle or action. Additionally, this revival machine is an incredibly marvelous alien piece of technology. The actual process of getting revived is pretty messy, but so is actual birth. Still, I can’t say I’d be happy to the fact I had a new body and I was going to go right back into the meat-grinder that got me revived in the first place. I don’t know if these guys and gals have detailed memories of their dying because some die very horribly; like being eaten alive by bugs. So how do you mentally reconcile with that recent memory knowing they expect you to go right back into the fight you just died from? Strange world. Glad it’s only science fiction!
I truly hope there will be more books, but nine is a lot of different worlds. The author is always looking for new worlds to write about so those of you with vivid and warped imaginations need to provide some ideas. Hopefully that will lead to more books in the series and very soon.
To my delight, we’re back with Centurion James McGill, Legion Varus warrior. Now that does sound impressive, especially when you realize that after all the stuff James McGill has gotten himself into and out of, he’s still an officer in the Legion. If you’ve followed this series at all, you know that McGill does what he thinks is right in situations where he has no choice but to rely on his own thinking. Most of the decisions he makes in those instances, are disastrous, for him and every one else, but they do work out better than the original choice!
This time, it’s not going to go any different. Right off the bat, McGill finds himself on the wrong side of the former Imperator Galina Turov. Having just come from a mass Legion Varus officers call, he saw Drusus, his long time friend, promoted to Praetor, a rank that would take him out of direct command of the Legion, but would allow him to appoint whomever he desired to the leadership of said Legion. To everyone’s surprise, he demoted Imperator Turov down to Tribune and promoted Tribune Deech up to Imperator, clearly switching their previous roles. Whatever his reasoning, it was terribly wrong. Unfortunately, our James McGill couldn’t see how wrong it was so he was one of the loudest in cheering the announcements of these changes by Drusus.
So, the first thing McGill gets to do is go see his new (old) Tribune, Galina Turov. She’s obviously not happy with the turn of events so she does what she usually does and takes it out on those around her. In a private meeting with Winslade, Evelyn Thompson, and McGill, Tribune Turov gives out her punishment by using rank awards. What she does to each is somewhat surprising, but not clearly so. Anyway, I will tell you that James McGill didn’t come out on the good end. He’s now back to an Adjunct from his previous Centurion position. But, McGill isn’t as enamored with rank as is Tribune Turov and the rest of the brass. He always does what he wants to do even though it might be way above his authority. And this story doesn’t work any differently.
Legion Varus has a secret mission that only their Legion is involved in or knows anything about. It’s so secret that Praetor Drusus told all the Legion Varus officers about it at the same time and also told them that if the mission details were leaked, everyone of the Legion Varus officers would be permed. For those of you who don’t remember, Earth has a “revival” machine. It’s alien tech that allows soldiers to be “re-born” or re-created out of bio-mass and recorded memory engrams. As in all these stories, Legion soldiers who get killed, no matter how gruesome, are brought back to life as long as they can be certified as dead. Of course, senior officers have the authority as to who and when a soldier gets revived and if a soldier has done something really, really bad, they don’t get revived, ever and are considered permed or permanently dead. Jame McGill was supposed to have been permed so many times I’ve lost count. That count does go up in this book!
Now, don’t get the idea that Adjunct McGill is a bad soldier, far from it. He’s the one you want in a tight situation because he’ll figure a way out. He takes very good care of his men and doesn’t have a problem terminating anyone that gets in his way (knowing that they’ll be revived somewhere else!). Yet he always finds himself getting the blame for the worst disasters that happen in the Legion. This time he’s accused of permanently wiping an entire Legion; no not Legion Varus, but Legion Iron Eagles. He’s also accused of almost destroying an entire planet, but that’s a bit of a stretch. He’s sentenced to be permed once again, but, as usual, Jame McGill has some interesting videos of his actions that just might save his butt again, or maybe not!
There is certain humor in these stories that I really like. You don’t often get to read about someone realizing that their death would be a good outcome of a battle or action. Additionally, this revival machine is an incredibly marvelous alien piece of technology. The actual process of getting revived is pretty messy, but so is actual birth. Still, I can’t say I’d be happy to the fact I had a new body and I was going to go right back into the meat-grinder that got me revived in the first place. I don’t know if these guys and gals have detailed memories of their dying because some die very horribly; like being eaten alive by bugs. So how do you mentally reconcile with that recent memory knowing they expect you to go right back into the fight you just died from? Strange world. Glad it’s only science fiction!
I truly hope there will be more books, but nine is a lot of different worlds. The author is always looking for new worlds to write about so those of you with vivid and warped imaginations need to provide some ideas. Hopefully that will lead to more books in the series and very soon.
June 26, 2018
I can not quite analyze why this last part of the undying mercenaries pleased me less than the previous ones. Maybe because its content is too close to the previous ones, maybe because it's a bit too long, maybe because the twists of the plot are less surprising and less original.
There is probably a little bit of all of it. It's still a good entertainment but after Blood World and Home World I was expecting a little more material, this book looks too much like an ordinary episode in the adventures of James McGuill!
The galactic plot is not progressing enough to my taste.
Still, I will read the next one, no doubt!
There is probably a little bit of all of it. It's still a good entertainment but after Blood World and Home World I was expecting a little more material, this book looks too much like an ordinary episode in the adventures of James McGuill!
The galactic plot is not progressing enough to my taste.
Still, I will read the next one, no doubt!
December 7, 2023
“Dark World” is the ninth installment in the Undying Mercenaries series by B V Larson, a prolific and popular author of science fiction and fantasy novels. The series follows the adventures of James McGill, a soldier in the Legion Varus, a mercenary force that serves Earth in a hostile and competitive galaxy. McGill is a witty, charming, and reckless protagonist who often finds himself in trouble with his superiors, his enemies, and his lovers. He is also one of the few humans who can regenerate from death, thanks to the alien technology of the Galactics, the mysterious and powerful rulers of the galaxy.
In “Dark World,” McGill and his comrades are sent to a remote and dangerous planet in the disputed region of space, where a rival power has been stealing human colonies. Their mission is to establish a base and secure the planet for Earth, but they soon discover that the enemy is not what they expected. They face a formidable foe that has superior technology, deadly traps, and a mysterious agenda. McGill has to use his cunning, courage, and charisma to survive and win the war, while also dealing with his personal issues, such as his complicated relationship with his commander, Natasha Turov, and his rivalry with his friend, Carlos Graves.
The audiobook is narrated by Mark Boyett, who does a superb job of bringing the characters and the story to life. He captures the tone, the humor, and the emotion of the book, and gives each character a distinct and fitting voice. He also handles the various accents, languages, and alien sounds with ease and skill. He makes the listener feel immersed in the world of the book, and adds to the enjoyment and excitement of the story.
“Dark World” is a fast-paced, action-packed, and entertaining book that will appeal to fans of military science fiction, space opera, and adventure. It is full of twists, turns, surprises, and humor, and it explores themes such as loyalty, friendship, love, war, and death. It is also a book that can be enjoyed as a standalone, or as part of the series, as it provides enough background information and references to the previous books. It is a book that will keep the listener engaged, entertained, and satisfied, and it will leave them wanting more of McGill's exploits.
In “Dark World,” McGill and his comrades are sent to a remote and dangerous planet in the disputed region of space, where a rival power has been stealing human colonies. Their mission is to establish a base and secure the planet for Earth, but they soon discover that the enemy is not what they expected. They face a formidable foe that has superior technology, deadly traps, and a mysterious agenda. McGill has to use his cunning, courage, and charisma to survive and win the war, while also dealing with his personal issues, such as his complicated relationship with his commander, Natasha Turov, and his rivalry with his friend, Carlos Graves.
The audiobook is narrated by Mark Boyett, who does a superb job of bringing the characters and the story to life. He captures the tone, the humor, and the emotion of the book, and gives each character a distinct and fitting voice. He also handles the various accents, languages, and alien sounds with ease and skill. He makes the listener feel immersed in the world of the book, and adds to the enjoyment and excitement of the story.
“Dark World” is a fast-paced, action-packed, and entertaining book that will appeal to fans of military science fiction, space opera, and adventure. It is full of twists, turns, surprises, and humor, and it explores themes such as loyalty, friendship, love, war, and death. It is also a book that can be enjoyed as a standalone, or as part of the series, as it provides enough background information and references to the previous books. It is a book that will keep the listener engaged, entertained, and satisfied, and it will leave them wanting more of McGill's exploits.
June 16, 2018
Audible audio book is now available so I'm listening now.
Book 1 is Steel World. First review is there.
I can't get enough of this series. This is a another solid entry. It's developed some interstellar political intrigue and epic intergalactic possibilities of war and destruction. And there are so many beloved characters as well as a new edition, Recruit Cooper, who really gives Carlos a run for his money in the a-hole department. Also we've got an inter-species army now that makes for some great fun.
I'd like to see McGill on a planet inside the Frontier. I'd love to see more about Etta. What a surprise she's turning out to be. I'd love to read another edition about Earth and Claver and that book. Anything you write about McGill will make me happy. He's one of my favorite characters EVER.
Book 1 is Steel World. First review is there.
I can't get enough of this series. This is a another solid entry. It's developed some interstellar political intrigue and epic intergalactic possibilities of war and destruction. And there are so many beloved characters as well as a new edition, Recruit Cooper, who really gives Carlos a run for his money in the a-hole department. Also we've got an inter-species army now that makes for some great fun.
I'd like to see McGill on a planet inside the Frontier. I'd love to see more about Etta. What a surprise she's turning out to be. I'd love to read another edition about Earth and Claver and that book. Anything you write about McGill will make me happy. He's one of my favorite characters EVER.
January 17, 2024
Re-read: Still fun. A bit all over the place.
This one was a slog. No, not the story. The characters are forced through the toughest meat grinder yet, with some good politicing and intrigue. Exploits come back to bite them, and the battles are fun.
This one was a slog. No, not the story. The characters are forced through the toughest meat grinder yet, with some good politicing and intrigue. Exploits come back to bite them, and the battles are fun.
July 11, 2018
I started this book and was thinking at the beginning that it might be time for Larson to wrap the series up. I couldn't have been more wrong. Once I got into the story a bit I realized the errors of my earlier thoughts.
Another great entry into the Undying Mercenaries series. McGill is back at it again and I continue to enjoy our main character. Some Revelations come out in this book that feel like Larson does have a plan of where this is all heading. The relationships with all if the characters introduced at this point is truly fun to watch play out. I do wish that there where 2 characters that I specifically would like to see get more "screen time" but we can't always get our way.
I once again am waiting for the next entry with a smile on my face of where this left off.
Another great entry into the Undying Mercenaries series. McGill is back at it again and I continue to enjoy our main character. Some Revelations come out in this book that feel like Larson does have a plan of where this is all heading. The relationships with all if the characters introduced at this point is truly fun to watch play out. I do wish that there where 2 characters that I specifically would like to see get more "screen time" but we can't always get our way.
I once again am waiting for the next entry with a smile on my face of where this left off.
May 21, 2024
I think these books are starting to wear me down. They have big problems but I have read so many of them now I just let that issues wash over me. Don't read this series if you can help it, but now I feel like I'll probably just end up finishing it.
November 2, 2023
Another fun book in the series, but a little too silly with the ditzy command leadership reactions and sleeping around, but still fun nonetheless.
June 25, 2018
All the usual stuff. Although, I did get a little excited when I realized it was getting close to the end of the book without an appearance from Claver. That character always drags the story line down to comic book arch-villain level, so I keep hoping he'll get "permed".
April 30, 2020
Bad, farfetched, not developmentally edited at all. One illustrative example from the beginning to the story: Tourov gets demoted. She subsequently demotes McGill. They then have sex in her office. Then they are interrupted by hog MPs, one of whom McGill kills for no reason. Then he is taken to jail and released for no reason. For some reason every high-ranking female officer gets their position by sleeping with someone else and all of them are incompetent. Character behaviors are wildly incongruent. Drusis (who has been consistently shown as the consummate professional in earlier books) is having an amorous relationship with another officer. He even promotes her because of it. McGill’s solution to getting past any guard is to beat them up (you’d think they would figure it out after the 100th time). The ending is totally absurd. McGill is on trial to be executed. Drusis almost orders him permed prematurely so he can have sex with another officer in the room.
Does anybody even edit these novels before they are released? Does anybody tell BV Larson how idiotic these storylines have become? He needs to slow down and go through beta reader phases before release. The characters are totally incongruent.
Does anybody even edit these novels before they are released? Does anybody tell BV Larson how idiotic these storylines have become? He needs to slow down and go through beta reader phases before release. The characters are totally incongruent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2018
This is among my favorite series of books, the humor and camaraderie of the Varus legion get me every time. James McGill is one of the biggest screwups in the legion, but he always seems to be at the heart of every critical moment by some twist of fate. His ability to BS is legendary and he is able to charm almost anyone with his ability to lie about anything and make it believable. The legion is back in the thick of a no-win contest again thanks to a lot of political stupidity and James manages to stomp his way through and make a mess of everything as usual.
April 11, 2018
Always a fun read
So take a pot, into it put measures of
The stainless steel rat By Harry harrison
Bill the Galactic hero
Dirk Pit by Clive Cussler
Lazarus Long by R Heineken
Casanova
Buck Rogers
Jack Reacher by Lee Child
John Winger (Bill Murry) film Stripes
The list goes on.
Give it a big stur, then you have James McGill .
If you want a fun read, with humour, fighting, intrigue, aliens, Sci - fi, spaceships, all rolled up with adventure, and bad guys, then this is for you..
So take a pot, into it put measures of
The stainless steel rat By Harry harrison
Bill the Galactic hero
Dirk Pit by Clive Cussler
Lazarus Long by R Heineken
Casanova
Buck Rogers
Jack Reacher by Lee Child
John Winger (Bill Murry) film Stripes
The list goes on.
Give it a big stur, then you have James McGill .
If you want a fun read, with humour, fighting, intrigue, aliens, Sci - fi, spaceships, all rolled up with adventure, and bad guys, then this is for you..
April 8, 2018
Great addition to a fun series!
I usually wait for the Audible versions but I have come to enjoy this series so much that I just had to get my next Undying fix as soon as I saw it was out.
I like how the McGill creature has developed since the beginning and the direction that this story is headed.
I look forward to listening to the Audible version because I know it will be even better if Mark Boyett reads it to me.
I usually wait for the Audible versions but I have come to enjoy this series so much that I just had to get my next Undying fix as soon as I saw it was out.
I like how the McGill creature has developed since the beginning and the direction that this story is headed.
I look forward to listening to the Audible version because I know it will be even better if Mark Boyett reads it to me.
March 25, 2018
James McGill....keep the story going!!!
I must say the “Undying Mercenaries” series is one of my favorite and I hope the Publisher’s give BV Larson a nice fat check and a time bonus to crank out many more installments as fast as possible!!! Great book, better cast, and incredible series!!!!
I must say the “Undying Mercenaries” series is one of my favorite and I hope the Publisher’s give BV Larson a nice fat check and a time bonus to crank out many more installments as fast as possible!!! Great book, better cast, and incredible series!!!!
November 7, 2018
In his novel Dark World Brian Larson starts out with promising ideas of interesting technology and a daring operation but in the end presents a fast-paced story with shallow scheming characters as part of a caricature of a military organization committed to useless actions.
To begin with I have to admit to have read this part 9 of the story arc without knowledge of the previous books, although this is no hindrance to follow the story. What intrigued me about the book was the strategic and technological framework of Earth being part of a wider alien empire with the technological ability to transfer consciousness into new bodies and thus render death powerless. Having said this the author sadly completely fails in fleshing out this framework with details or go into the effects of this technology.
The protagonist starts out as shallow, ignorant and sly and does not develop during the novel at all. The other characters remain equally shallow and either scheme for personal power or just try to make it through the day. As the protagonist relaying the story most often did not listen to speeches or briefings and does not understand what happens the story line develops like a computer game with objectives emerging to be accomplished before a sudden twist makes a new objective emerge to be accomplished. Equally like in computer games there is an abundance of enemies to shoot and getting killed is treated like a time-penalty before getting back into the game.
Most disappointing is Larson’s failure to describe the military organization of the Legion’s convincingly. Not only does this organization mainly consist of infantry with the next heavier weapon being orbital bombardment, promotions and demotions are apparently based on personal relations with commanding officers and no training or performance requirements. New recruits are also not trained per se but put into combat situations to gain experience although they frequently die in the process. As being killed effectively equals getting a day off, discipline appears to be optional it is hardly enforced. While the author goes to great lengths to explain how big the military headquarters on Earth was and how the protagonist wanders in brass territory, one wonders what all the space is needed for and who the “brass” was. The whole chain of command between a lieutenant and the commander of all forces appear to be four people, making operational and strategic decisions on their own without any staff to prepare or plan. It is clear to see the author only describes enough of the military organization and equipment to support his storyline but this outfit is so ridiculously bad organized and does not exploit its technological advantages at all, it is comical.
Overall the novel is fast-paced, humorous and entertaining but remains shallow and unconvincing to a reader thinking about the content.
To begin with I have to admit to have read this part 9 of the story arc without knowledge of the previous books, although this is no hindrance to follow the story. What intrigued me about the book was the strategic and technological framework of Earth being part of a wider alien empire with the technological ability to transfer consciousness into new bodies and thus render death powerless. Having said this the author sadly completely fails in fleshing out this framework with details or go into the effects of this technology.
The protagonist starts out as shallow, ignorant and sly and does not develop during the novel at all. The other characters remain equally shallow and either scheme for personal power or just try to make it through the day. As the protagonist relaying the story most often did not listen to speeches or briefings and does not understand what happens the story line develops like a computer game with objectives emerging to be accomplished before a sudden twist makes a new objective emerge to be accomplished. Equally like in computer games there is an abundance of enemies to shoot and getting killed is treated like a time-penalty before getting back into the game.
Most disappointing is Larson’s failure to describe the military organization of the Legion’s convincingly. Not only does this organization mainly consist of infantry with the next heavier weapon being orbital bombardment, promotions and demotions are apparently based on personal relations with commanding officers and no training or performance requirements. New recruits are also not trained per se but put into combat situations to gain experience although they frequently die in the process. As being killed effectively equals getting a day off, discipline appears to be optional it is hardly enforced. While the author goes to great lengths to explain how big the military headquarters on Earth was and how the protagonist wanders in brass territory, one wonders what all the space is needed for and who the “brass” was. The whole chain of command between a lieutenant and the commander of all forces appear to be four people, making operational and strategic decisions on their own without any staff to prepare or plan. It is clear to see the author only describes enough of the military organization and equipment to support his storyline but this outfit is so ridiculously bad organized and does not exploit its technological advantages at all, it is comical.
Overall the novel is fast-paced, humorous and entertaining but remains shallow and unconvincing to a reader thinking about the content.
February 3, 2023
PopKulturowy Kociołek:
James McGill to bohater, obok którego nie można przejść obojętnie. Jedni będą nim zachwyceni, inni zaś szczerze będą go nienawidzić. Nie chodzi tutaj tylko o samych czytelników, ale również inne postacie z uniwersum B.V. Larsona. W niezwykły sposób potrafi on bowiem przyciągać do siebie niektórych współpracowników (szczególnie żeńską stronę), jednocześnie nawet się specjalnie nie starając powiększając swoją grupę wrogów, którzy z wielką przyjemnością chcieliby się go ostatecznie pozbyć (nie chodzi tu tylko o ludzi). On jednak niezrażony całą gamą szalonych wydarzeń, których był uczestnikiem i niezliczoną ilością zgonów, nadal jest „sobą” i pakuje się w coraz to gorsze kłopoty. Tak też jest w tytułowym Świecie Ciemności, gdzie zostaje wysłany jego Legion. Tym razem James nie występuje w roli zwykłego trepa, a kogoś, kto może podejmować decyzje, od których zależeć będzie nie tylko los żołnierzy, ale również całej planety. Co może pójść nie tak, jeśli da się pewną władzę komuś, kto zawsze podąża własnymi ścieżkami i nie zważa na żadne konsekwencje swoich czynów? O tym każdy fan serii będzie musiał przekonać się samemu.
Seria Legion Nieśmiertelnych (podobnie jak wspomniany bohater) potrafi budzić naprawdę różne emocje. Jedni z zachwytem pochłaniają kolejne pojawiające się książki, inni dostrzegają wtórność całej opowieści. Nie ma bowiem co ukrywać, że B.V. Larson w kolejnych odsłonach stosuje pewnego rodzaju „recykling” scenariuszowy (nie chodzi tylko o „nieśmiertelne” postacie). Kolejny niezwykły świat, do którego udają się ludzie, kolejne kłopoty, w które pakuje się główny bohater i kolejne międzygalaktyczne intrygi. Są to trzy podstawowe elementy, na których opierają się wszystkie książki z cyklu. Ich powtarzalność potrafi być troszkę nużąca, jednocześnie jednak drzemie w nich pewien „urok”, któremu naprawdę trudno jest się oprzeć.
Rozrywkowo-widowiskowo-humorystyczno-intrygująca warstwa scenariusza utrzymana jest również w recenzowanej dziewiątej odsłonie. Pierwsza połowa książki służy autorowi do zarysowania nowej intrygi (włącznie z dobrze nakreślonymi wątkami galaktycznej polityki i gigantycznymi ambicjami co niektórych postaci). Widzimy McGilla w nowej dla siebie roli, który pamięta jednak jak to jest być zwykłym “żołnierzem” i stara się wchodzić w interakcje ze swoimi podwładnymi (na różnym poziomie). Sporo miejsca poświęcone zostaje tutaj na dialogi. Fabuła nie jest jednak przegadana, a prowadzone dyskusje potrafią być nawet dosyć ciekawe. Prawdziwe oblicze serii książka prezentuje jednak dopiero po przeczytaniu pewnej ilości stron. Wtedy to też na pierwsze miejsce wysuwa się mocna kosmiczna akcja, która będzie trzymać czytelnika w napięciu do ostatniego akapitu.
https://popkulturowykociolek.pl/recen...
James McGill to bohater, obok którego nie można przejść obojętnie. Jedni będą nim zachwyceni, inni zaś szczerze będą go nienawidzić. Nie chodzi tutaj tylko o samych czytelników, ale również inne postacie z uniwersum B.V. Larsona. W niezwykły sposób potrafi on bowiem przyciągać do siebie niektórych współpracowników (szczególnie żeńską stronę), jednocześnie nawet się specjalnie nie starając powiększając swoją grupę wrogów, którzy z wielką przyjemnością chcieliby się go ostatecznie pozbyć (nie chodzi tu tylko o ludzi). On jednak niezrażony całą gamą szalonych wydarzeń, których był uczestnikiem i niezliczoną ilością zgonów, nadal jest „sobą” i pakuje się w coraz to gorsze kłopoty. Tak też jest w tytułowym Świecie Ciemności, gdzie zostaje wysłany jego Legion. Tym razem James nie występuje w roli zwykłego trepa, a kogoś, kto może podejmować decyzje, od których zależeć będzie nie tylko los żołnierzy, ale również całej planety. Co może pójść nie tak, jeśli da się pewną władzę komuś, kto zawsze podąża własnymi ścieżkami i nie zważa na żadne konsekwencje swoich czynów? O tym każdy fan serii będzie musiał przekonać się samemu.
Seria Legion Nieśmiertelnych (podobnie jak wspomniany bohater) potrafi budzić naprawdę różne emocje. Jedni z zachwytem pochłaniają kolejne pojawiające się książki, inni dostrzegają wtórność całej opowieści. Nie ma bowiem co ukrywać, że B.V. Larson w kolejnych odsłonach stosuje pewnego rodzaju „recykling” scenariuszowy (nie chodzi tylko o „nieśmiertelne” postacie). Kolejny niezwykły świat, do którego udają się ludzie, kolejne kłopoty, w które pakuje się główny bohater i kolejne międzygalaktyczne intrygi. Są to trzy podstawowe elementy, na których opierają się wszystkie książki z cyklu. Ich powtarzalność potrafi być troszkę nużąca, jednocześnie jednak drzemie w nich pewien „urok”, któremu naprawdę trudno jest się oprzeć.
Rozrywkowo-widowiskowo-humorystyczno-intrygująca warstwa scenariusza utrzymana jest również w recenzowanej dziewiątej odsłonie. Pierwsza połowa książki służy autorowi do zarysowania nowej intrygi (włącznie z dobrze nakreślonymi wątkami galaktycznej polityki i gigantycznymi ambicjami co niektórych postaci). Widzimy McGilla w nowej dla siebie roli, który pamięta jednak jak to jest być zwykłym “żołnierzem” i stara się wchodzić w interakcje ze swoimi podwładnymi (na różnym poziomie). Sporo miejsca poświęcone zostaje tutaj na dialogi. Fabuła nie jest jednak przegadana, a prowadzone dyskusje potrafią być nawet dosyć ciekawe. Prawdziwe oblicze serii książka prezentuje jednak dopiero po przeczytaniu pewnej ilości stron. Wtedy to też na pierwsze miejsce wysuwa się mocna kosmiczna akcja, która będzie trzymać czytelnika w napięciu do ostatniego akapitu.
https://popkulturowykociolek.pl/recen...
February 23, 2025
"Świat ciemności" jest 9 tomem serii "Legion Nieśmiertelnych". Po raz kolejny towarzyszymy McGillowi w jego kosmicznych przygodach.
Legion Varus zostaje wysłany na ściśle tajną misję. Ze względu na zagrożenie ze strony wrogiego mocarstwa Ziemia planuje utworzenie bazy na granicy kontrolowanych terenów. Misja jest bardzo niebezpieczna, ponieważ nikt nie wie jaką siłą dysponują wrogowie. W ten sposób Legion Varus trafia na Świat Ciemności. Legioniści za wszelką cenę próbują wypchnąć Vulbitów i zająć kompleks orbitalny. Przechodzą kolejne wskrzeszenia, ale mimo to się nie poddają. Wiedzą, że powodzenie tej misji jest kluczowe dla zapewnienie bezpieczeństwa Ziemi, nawet jeśli przyjdzie im zapłacić za to permanentną śmiercią. McGill ginie wiele razy, ale się nie poddaje. Po raz kolejny ryzykuje wiele sięgając po niestandardowe rozwiązania. Oprócz tego mierzy się z kolejnymi problemami związanymi z kobietami w jego życiu, w tym także z tymi, które przysparza mu własna córka. Czy Legionowi Varus uda się wykonać misję czy może jednak Ziemia będzie musiała mierzyć się z konsekwencjami porażki?
Książkę czytało mi się bardzo dobrze. Mimo, że to już 9 tom przygód naszego bohatera, autor nadal trzyma poziom. Książkę czyta się przyjemnie. McGill mimo tylu lat w służbie legionowi nic się nie zmienił. Nadal podejmuje się niekonwencjonalnych działań, za które obrywa mu się od przełożonych. Wie on jednak, że tylko w ten sposób może zapewnić powodzenie misji. Na początku tego tomu następują zmiany w stopniach niektórych bohaterów, co sprawia, że większy udział w tej historii ma pewien bohater. I muszę przyznać, że jest to powrót, z którego się ucieszyłam. Nie będę tutaj zdradzać kto jest tym bohaterem. Tego dowiecie się już czytając książkę. Mam nadzieję, że kolejne tomy tej historii nadal będą tak samo wciągające. Na chwilę obecną na pewno sięgnę po kolejną część.
Moja ocena 4⭐/5
Legion Varus zostaje wysłany na ściśle tajną misję. Ze względu na zagrożenie ze strony wrogiego mocarstwa Ziemia planuje utworzenie bazy na granicy kontrolowanych terenów. Misja jest bardzo niebezpieczna, ponieważ nikt nie wie jaką siłą dysponują wrogowie. W ten sposób Legion Varus trafia na Świat Ciemności. Legioniści za wszelką cenę próbują wypchnąć Vulbitów i zająć kompleks orbitalny. Przechodzą kolejne wskrzeszenia, ale mimo to się nie poddają. Wiedzą, że powodzenie tej misji jest kluczowe dla zapewnienie bezpieczeństwa Ziemi, nawet jeśli przyjdzie im zapłacić za to permanentną śmiercią. McGill ginie wiele razy, ale się nie poddaje. Po raz kolejny ryzykuje wiele sięgając po niestandardowe rozwiązania. Oprócz tego mierzy się z kolejnymi problemami związanymi z kobietami w jego życiu, w tym także z tymi, które przysparza mu własna córka. Czy Legionowi Varus uda się wykonać misję czy może jednak Ziemia będzie musiała mierzyć się z konsekwencjami porażki?
Książkę czytało mi się bardzo dobrze. Mimo, że to już 9 tom przygód naszego bohatera, autor nadal trzyma poziom. Książkę czyta się przyjemnie. McGill mimo tylu lat w służbie legionowi nic się nie zmienił. Nadal podejmuje się niekonwencjonalnych działań, za które obrywa mu się od przełożonych. Wie on jednak, że tylko w ten sposób może zapewnić powodzenie misji. Na początku tego tomu następują zmiany w stopniach niektórych bohaterów, co sprawia, że większy udział w tej historii ma pewien bohater. I muszę przyznać, że jest to powrót, z którego się ucieszyłam. Nie będę tutaj zdradzać kto jest tym bohaterem. Tego dowiecie się już czytając książkę. Mam nadzieję, że kolejne tomy tej historii nadal będą tak samo wciągające. Na chwilę obecną na pewno sięgnę po kolejną część.
Moja ocena 4⭐/5
June 22, 2018
After the invasion of earth I was starting to think these books should end, or I should stop reading. I decided to keep reading anyways since it popped up in my search for sci-fi. Glad I did.
I though the book was getting a bit dark, and some characters unlikable. Galina Turov went from thorn in the side of James to selling earth to slavers, torture, and perming people. Characters like Natasha ask James to investigate something then blame him for the results of the investigations.
The recent books have moved on from that. James still gets blamed for taking action, but there is more acknowledgement from others that he did the right thing. When James loses command those he commanded want him back in charge. When he makes the call to bombard the planet others knows that it had to be done, they just to cowardly to do it. We also get a satisfying scene with Drusses asking James why he thinks everything went wrong.
Its a bit formulaic but in a good way.
I though the book was getting a bit dark, and some characters unlikable. Galina Turov went from thorn in the side of James to selling earth to slavers, torture, and perming people. Characters like Natasha ask James to investigate something then blame him for the results of the investigations.
The recent books have moved on from that. James still gets blamed for taking action, but there is more acknowledgement from others that he did the right thing. When James loses command those he commanded want him back in charge. When he makes the call to bombard the planet others knows that it had to be done, they just to cowardly to do it. We also get a satisfying scene with Drusses asking James why he thinks everything went wrong.
Its a bit formulaic but in a good way.
December 26, 2020
James McGill
James McGill, superhero, Mr. America, Superman, Ironman, 007? All of these yet none of these. Liar, cheater, womanizer, thief, killer, monster? All of these yet none either. He is somebody hat he is, an enormously captivating man in an unexplainable way. He is somebody you want to like and yet hate at the same time. Oten faced with problems that he hopes nobody asks, he has solutions that nobody wants to talk about, much less actually perform. I think that is his attraction. In our own lives we are often faced with problems that we hoped would not even have to be considered. He overcomes them in his own way. B. V. Larson is a master-craftsman storyteller. I hope you enjoy Dark World in this captivating noir thriller as much as I did.
James McGill, superhero, Mr. America, Superman, Ironman, 007? All of these yet none of these. Liar, cheater, womanizer, thief, killer, monster? All of these yet none either. He is somebody hat he is, an enormously captivating man in an unexplainable way. He is somebody you want to like and yet hate at the same time. Oten faced with problems that he hopes nobody asks, he has solutions that nobody wants to talk about, much less actually perform. I think that is his attraction. In our own lives we are often faced with problems that we hoped would not even have to be considered. He overcomes them in his own way. B. V. Larson is a master-craftsman storyteller. I hope you enjoy Dark World in this captivating noir thriller as much as I did.
July 2, 2021
The Undying Mercenaries series is a guilty pleasure of mine. As usual I listened to the Audio book version with Mark Boyett doing his usual great job narrating.
Each book in the series expands the major plot line with each book being a self-contained book of its own. This time around James McGill and Legion Veras are tasked with taking over a planet that has one of the largest manufacturing facilities in their region of space.
Sure it is repetative but favorite characters reappear as the shit hits the fan. I call it a guilty pleasure since I tend to read one of the Undying Mercenaries as a change. McGill keeps getting himself in shit with the legion and with the ladies, but always manages to dig himself out from both.
Good popcorn book.
Each book in the series expands the major plot line with each book being a self-contained book of its own. This time around James McGill and Legion Veras are tasked with taking over a planet that has one of the largest manufacturing facilities in their region of space.
Sure it is repetative but favorite characters reappear as the shit hits the fan. I call it a guilty pleasure since I tend to read one of the Undying Mercenaries as a change. McGill keeps getting himself in shit with the legion and with the ladies, but always manages to dig himself out from both.
Good popcorn book.
July 24, 2018
It's the same story, again and again and again...
In most cases I would already be bored and the rating would get lower. However, can't explain why, on this series I am just happy to consume every episode, knowing it will be a rehash of the previous book.
That said, this new book opens up some issues about Cleaver, about the Galactics and about the book everyone was looking for a few episodes back. So, it is not the exact same story... Just a very similar one. :)
As a disclaimer, the main character continues to be violent, womanizer, sex addict and with no care for the established moral. He is a bastard, and also the soul of the entire series.
In most cases I would already be bored and the rating would get lower. However, can't explain why, on this series I am just happy to consume every episode, knowing it will be a rehash of the previous book.
That said, this new book opens up some issues about Cleaver, about the Galactics and about the book everyone was looking for a few episodes back. So, it is not the exact same story... Just a very similar one. :)
As a disclaimer, the main character continues to be violent, womanizer, sex addict and with no care for the established moral. He is a bastard, and also the soul of the entire series.
August 16, 2019
I enjoyed this read. I might have given it another half star, but this series seems like more of the same as it continues toward some unspecified end. I wasn't sure what the point was of attacking Dark World. A reason was given, but it didn't seem sufficient. Also it seemed as if the author was shuffling the characters around in order to set them up for the next book in the series. This often happens in a military series. The author's characters get promoted in rank too quickly, and they are moved out of the action to sit in an office somewhere when the author could really use them on the front lines.
Despite my complaints, I enjoyed the ride.
I will probably read this book again.
Despite my complaints, I enjoyed the ride.
I will probably read this book again.
March 19, 2018
Now we wait for book 10!!!!!!
Political machinations galore! Not only do we get some amazing battles, some man on squid action, and get to meet the new enemy, we see good ole James fall and rise once more!
We also get some good death count numbers! Haha.
What’s so amazing is that we have had 9 books and we have a cast of characters that we LOVE!! And now we will get to see them in battles for hopefully at least another 9 book for the Rigel conflict. And then we will have Varus vs ????? Oh yes!!!
Political machinations galore! Not only do we get some amazing battles, some man on squid action, and get to meet the new enemy, we see good ole James fall and rise once more!
We also get some good death count numbers! Haha.
What’s so amazing is that we have had 9 books and we have a cast of characters that we LOVE!! And now we will get to see them in battles for hopefully at least another 9 book for the Rigel conflict. And then we will have Varus vs ????? Oh yes!!!
June 13, 2018
Another enjoyable read.
Larson has created characters with strengths and flaws that flow from those strengths. Underlying all of his main characters actions is a strong sense of family. Everything he does is in defense or in protection of those he loves, and he never wavers from that goal. Larson brings into reality the idea of, if I only knew then what I know now. These soldiers have the ability to have both the wisdom that age brings and the youthfulness to enjoy every moment of it.
Larson has created characters with strengths and flaws that flow from those strengths. Underlying all of his main characters actions is a strong sense of family. Everything he does is in defense or in protection of those he loves, and he never wavers from that goal. Larson brings into reality the idea of, if I only knew then what I know now. These soldiers have the ability to have both the wisdom that age brings and the youthfulness to enjoy every moment of it.
July 10, 2018
*Yawn* Here we go again, McGill's folksy self-deprecating wit goes on another skirt chasing adventure. There's some new bear like aliens, lot of bugs, a risk of getting permed and toying with the idea that McGill and Turov are meant for each other, as both are self serving and hedonistic.
At least this go-around in McGill's stable of herem entries, we're limited entirely to past conquests, and the woman that seems meant for him is the same lady capable of putting a bullet in him. This series is on auto-pilot.
I'll give it one last book and I'm out.
At least this go-around in McGill's stable of herem entries, we're limited entirely to past conquests, and the woman that seems meant for him is the same lady capable of putting a bullet in him. This series is on auto-pilot.
I'll give it one last book and I'm out.
May 3, 2022
I always enjoy a classic "Old James McGill" tale. The author has done a great job with this series.
In this installment I liked that he went for the "if I can't have it then neither can you" option. My take-away from this is McGill has a way to get under everyone's skin but yet comes out the savior.
Old Silver is back and annoying as ever. I'm starting to think that I could make a drinking game out of his death at the hands of McGill. He is a constant source of chaos.
I look forward to seeing how the earth-man deals with the Rigellians and his crafty teenage daughter?
In this installment I liked that he went for the "if I can't have it then neither can you" option. My take-away from this is McGill has a way to get under everyone's skin but yet comes out the savior.
Old Silver is back and annoying as ever. I'm starting to think that I could make a drinking game out of his death at the hands of McGill. He is a constant source of chaos.
I look forward to seeing how the earth-man deals with the Rigellians and his crafty teenage daughter?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2018
Excellent as always
I always eagerly awaits the next book in the series I absolutely love it you're the has created the universe on reach fascinating and ruthless characters that always keep me interested and engaged by book 9 the author has created the universe that I truly love to immerse myself in even though the books are getting longer and longer I never feel there long enough I truly love this series and strongly recommend it to anybody loves a good space opera
I always eagerly awaits the next book in the series I absolutely love it you're the has created the universe on reach fascinating and ruthless characters that always keep me interested and engaged by book 9 the author has created the universe that I truly love to immerse myself in even though the books are getting longer and longer I never feel there long enough I truly love this series and strongly recommend it to anybody loves a good space opera
July 1, 2018
This was a quick listen, but enjoyable nonetheless. I enjoy following James McGill's exploits. Mark Boyett does a great job portraying all of the characters. One of the things I really enjoy about this series is how multidimensional all the characters are. They aren't just one way or they other, they adapt based on the situation and no one fits in one box with a single label.
This book is no exception and James charms his way all the way through till the end.
This book is no exception and James charms his way all the way through till the end.
August 7, 2018
I enjoyed the book. But honestly, the biggest disappointment was when the author skimmed over James was being honest with Drusis. I savour when someone gets slammed with the hard truth that they fucked up, they did wrong and this is define proof as to why. Its a small part of where James is actually honest with someone. And to actually miss that side when we rarely get to see it is disheartening because it shows he does actually give a shit about earth and making sure it's safe.
November 13, 2018
Very satisfying read!
This was a real jewel, I finished it as soon as possible once I started it. The main character is hilarious and well rounded, he has depth when he needs it and shallowness when it's warranted.
All the other characters are very interesting and developed. Also there is ass kicking to be had all over the place. If you enjoy sci fi, space opera, or just fiction in general then this series is a must. Read this!
This was a real jewel, I finished it as soon as possible once I started it. The main character is hilarious and well rounded, he has depth when he needs it and shallowness when it's warranted.
All the other characters are very interesting and developed. Also there is ass kicking to be had all over the place. If you enjoy sci fi, space opera, or just fiction in general then this series is a must. Read this!
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