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Four Horsemen Tales #1
Legend
In the era of the original Four Horsemen, there comes a Legend.
At a time when Humans were just starting to venture forth into the Galactic Union as mercenaries, Martin Quincy survived long enough to do something no one else had—he retired.
There was only one problem. He got bored.
After battling aliens for many years—killing aliens and getting paid—retirement didn’t suit him, and he decided to strap on the combat armor and go back to the stars. Along with his old friend Kal, Martin joined Cartwright’s Cavaliers, humanity’s best merc company. Life was exciting!
But he got bored. Again.
What does a ‘Legend’ do when even the merc life gets boring? He starts his own company! Can Martin form a merc company out of non-merc races and stand up for the downtrodden of the galaxy, or has his long string of good luck finally run out? One thing is for sure—with Torvasi and Andori troopers, and a Sirra’Kan princess as his partner, he won’t get bored again!
At a time when Humans were just starting to venture forth into the Galactic Union as mercenaries, Martin Quincy survived long enough to do something no one else had—he retired.
There was only one problem. He got bored.
After battling aliens for many years—killing aliens and getting paid—retirement didn’t suit him, and he decided to strap on the combat armor and go back to the stars. Along with his old friend Kal, Martin joined Cartwright’s Cavaliers, humanity’s best merc company. Life was exciting!
But he got bored. Again.
What does a ‘Legend’ do when even the merc life gets boring? He starts his own company! Can Martin form a merc company out of non-merc races and stand up for the downtrodden of the galaxy, or has his long string of good luck finally run out? One thing is for sure—with Torvasi and Andori troopers, and a Sirra’Kan princess as his partner, he won’t get bored again!
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2018
554 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 22, 2021
I put this on a lot of shelves. I mean here we get humans involved in a larger universe and (again) about all we have to offer is our proclivity for violence. Well...our proclivity for violence and the fact that we're really, really good at it.
Look, brain-candy. We get a hero who fights like mad and inspires fanatical loyalty in those who fight with him. I really enjoyed it (and that's what it's for). My only regret here is that other books in the series are about other characters, at least so far.
Recommended, enjoy.
Look, brain-candy. We get a hero who fights like mad and inspires fanatical loyalty in those who fight with him. I really enjoyed it (and that's what it's for). My only regret here is that other books in the series are about other characters, at least so far.
Recommended, enjoy.
February 3, 2022
Notes:
Currently on Audible Plus
Solid, military SF with a great main character. It's like a series of short stories about Martin Quincy. Nice dash of humor and space weird.
Currently on Audible Plus
Solid, military SF with a great main character. It's like a series of short stories about Martin Quincy. Nice dash of humor and space weird.
November 21, 2018
This is a very good book by an author that is new to me. I haven’t read a military science fiction book as good as this one in quite awhile. It contains a lot of human and alien characters. In this universe, the Earth is part of the Galactic community albeit a lowly, young member. The only export and contribution to this galactic community is mercenary armies. Some would question if that’s not a commodity that Earth should want to be known for, but the Earth is technologically behind the rest of the galaxy. The only thing we can excel in is military technology and our ability to think while on the battlefield. Yes, human mercenaries are in demand if they can get the attention of those who are issuing contracts.
At the beginning, our main guy is Martin Quincy. He’s been a mercenary for a long time, but not long enough that he’s ready to quit. He’s a member of the Cavaliers, a mercenary outfit based out of Wichita (Kansas?). They have been through some pretty tough contracts which is the same thing as saying battles. Quincy seems to have a unique skill set that makes him excel on the battlefield. He did so well on one particular planet that the Sirra’Kan now call him the Koreverone or “Legend”. Of course, the other members of the Cavaliers are duly impressed with Qunicy’s new moniker so they remind him of it often. His best friend is always spouting off about the great exploits of the “Legend” which aggravates Martin Quincy to no end. He’s just doesn’t feel like a “Legend” and says he’s just doing his job. Fact is, Quincy has come up against some of the more dangerous and aggressive alien mercenaries in the galaxy. He has been captured on video while killing two of these alien monsters in hand-to-hand combat. So now he has to live with the title of Legend or “Gorestole” in Andori, “Torkanto" in Grawwl, “Daksada" in Torvasi as well as the previously mentioned “Koreverone” in Sirra’Kan.
While Martin Quincy is a pretty good fighter, he also has a knack with the women. And I’m not just talking about human women, either! Rumor has it that while on Te’Warri, Quincy came to the attention of the Prime’s second youngest daughter. Now, the Sirra’Kan are very similar to humans in that they are bipedal and humanoid. They do have nice soft fur covering most of their body. Their world is gravity-heavy which means these aliens are very, very muscle-bound and as strong as ten humans or so. Anyway, to be favored by a Sirra’Kan female is to be very, very careful when or if playing around. Quincy has found that out the hard way.
So, now he’s just recovered from a recent contract and is escorting his boss to the planet Karam to find more contracts for the Cavaliers. He is met by a squad of Torvasi who are accompanying one Kor’Tanna, eldest daughter of the Prime of the Sirra’Kan. As surprising as it seems, she wants to join with Martin Quincy in business to start their own mercenary company! Quincy had not thought of doing that on his own, but with the backing of the Princess and with the accumulated funds he had put together over the years, he though the idea was very doable. Only thing is, Martin Quincy is going to hire not only humans, but a lot of very strong and tough aliens that haven’t actually fought with humans before. Yet, due to his people or alien skills, he’s formed some strong friendships with several alien races. Those races have almost vowed to follow Quincy into any battle he might take them. So, he’s got the beginnings of a pretty strong mercenary company and it soon becomes evident that’s his bunch is going to be very hard to defeat and they all are going to get very, very rich. Of course they have to stay alive to spend that wealth.
This book has a lot of fighting, but most of it is short and to the point. The language is just raw enough to be natural without going overboard. The character building is excellent even with the alien characters. I hope that Mr. Woods decides to write many more stories with Martin Quincy as the lead character. And I would very much enjoy seeing the rest of the characters in this book as well. Great writing!
At the beginning, our main guy is Martin Quincy. He’s been a mercenary for a long time, but not long enough that he’s ready to quit. He’s a member of the Cavaliers, a mercenary outfit based out of Wichita (Kansas?). They have been through some pretty tough contracts which is the same thing as saying battles. Quincy seems to have a unique skill set that makes him excel on the battlefield. He did so well on one particular planet that the Sirra’Kan now call him the Koreverone or “Legend”. Of course, the other members of the Cavaliers are duly impressed with Qunicy’s new moniker so they remind him of it often. His best friend is always spouting off about the great exploits of the “Legend” which aggravates Martin Quincy to no end. He’s just doesn’t feel like a “Legend” and says he’s just doing his job. Fact is, Quincy has come up against some of the more dangerous and aggressive alien mercenaries in the galaxy. He has been captured on video while killing two of these alien monsters in hand-to-hand combat. So now he has to live with the title of Legend or “Gorestole” in Andori, “Torkanto" in Grawwl, “Daksada" in Torvasi as well as the previously mentioned “Koreverone” in Sirra’Kan.
While Martin Quincy is a pretty good fighter, he also has a knack with the women. And I’m not just talking about human women, either! Rumor has it that while on Te’Warri, Quincy came to the attention of the Prime’s second youngest daughter. Now, the Sirra’Kan are very similar to humans in that they are bipedal and humanoid. They do have nice soft fur covering most of their body. Their world is gravity-heavy which means these aliens are very, very muscle-bound and as strong as ten humans or so. Anyway, to be favored by a Sirra’Kan female is to be very, very careful when or if playing around. Quincy has found that out the hard way.
So, now he’s just recovered from a recent contract and is escorting his boss to the planet Karam to find more contracts for the Cavaliers. He is met by a squad of Torvasi who are accompanying one Kor’Tanna, eldest daughter of the Prime of the Sirra’Kan. As surprising as it seems, she wants to join with Martin Quincy in business to start their own mercenary company! Quincy had not thought of doing that on his own, but with the backing of the Princess and with the accumulated funds he had put together over the years, he though the idea was very doable. Only thing is, Martin Quincy is going to hire not only humans, but a lot of very strong and tough aliens that haven’t actually fought with humans before. Yet, due to his people or alien skills, he’s formed some strong friendships with several alien races. Those races have almost vowed to follow Quincy into any battle he might take them. So, he’s got the beginnings of a pretty strong mercenary company and it soon becomes evident that’s his bunch is going to be very hard to defeat and they all are going to get very, very rich. Of course they have to stay alive to spend that wealth.
This book has a lot of fighting, but most of it is short and to the point. The language is just raw enough to be natural without going overboard. The character building is excellent even with the alien characters. I hope that Mr. Woods decides to write many more stories with Martin Quincy as the lead character. And I would very much enjoy seeing the rest of the characters in this book as well. Great writing!
July 24, 2018
His strength is that of 10, because his heart is pure. No, really it IS pure!
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
"Legend" is an expansion of a character in a short story in the Four Horseman Universe collection "For A Fistful of Credits." Under normal circumstances, I would re-read that short story to provide background for a review, but in this case, "legend" is at the TOP of my reading list, ad I have all 10 of my KU slots occupied. Alas.The best I could do is go back and read my review of the story, and that was really no help.
Not needed, at any rate, because everything you need to know is contained in this volume. Martin Quincy doesn't really WANT to be a merc, even though he is very, very good at what he does. He also doesn't want to command a merc company. Nobody seems to care.
He is NOT one of those guys you run into who are full of stories: "No kidding, there I was,all alone on the Plain, with nothing but a gnawed antelope thighbone...." His defect runs the other way. He much prefers to stay in the background when there is no active fighting going on, so he dislikes it when OTHERS tell his war stories. And many of those stories exist, too, because he most decidedly does NOT stay in the background when it drops into the pot.
Along the way, he picks up what may be regarded as Boon Companions; mercs who share his approach to the ethics of warfare. They like being on the side of the Good Guys; that isn't always apparent at the beginning of their contracts, in the earliest days of Earth mercs, but the wisdom gathered by participating in a number of battles finely hones his sense for the team he wants to play for. That isn't always a good move, either financially or in terms of personal survival, but it's the path he chooses, and his team goes where he goes.
Even if one of them only does it so he can kill Martin when the time is right.
I have two objections to make, and one of them is slightly ridiculous.
Slightly ridiculous objection: sex with aliens? Nah. Ain't never gonna happen. Human sexual response is primarily determined EARLY in life. Now, PERHAPS the resemblance of one of the species to a sexualized cartoon characters of the mid-80's is a factor here, but otherwise, I'm not buying it. That's ridiculous, because how you gonna have a modern hero without a romance, and I've already accepted 10 other impossible things, but I still don't buy the concept.
The second objection I have is to the lack of place/time designations in the story. The book is laid out in a series of flash-forwards / flash-backwards, and it was a little bit difficult to keep up with where certain events took place in the story. This one may also be slightly ridiculous, because I tend to skip past those labels as I read, but if they are THERE, then at least I can refer back to them if I get confused. I wish that there were clear cues: '10 years earlier, on Planet Yeep....'
Having said that, I devoured the entire book as fast as I could. It was delicious. I have been a fan of Christopher Woods work for a year or two, and my one regret is that he wasn't able to put a Checkers hamburger joint on Planet Karma. The Greek diner will have to do.
AND I EDIT THIS TO ADD!!!
The banter between Martin and his buddies is delightful. Lots of running gags, loads of snark. You'll love it.
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
"Legend" is an expansion of a character in a short story in the Four Horseman Universe collection "For A Fistful of Credits." Under normal circumstances, I would re-read that short story to provide background for a review, but in this case, "legend" is at the TOP of my reading list, ad I have all 10 of my KU slots occupied. Alas.The best I could do is go back and read my review of the story, and that was really no help.
Not needed, at any rate, because everything you need to know is contained in this volume. Martin Quincy doesn't really WANT to be a merc, even though he is very, very good at what he does. He also doesn't want to command a merc company. Nobody seems to care.
He is NOT one of those guys you run into who are full of stories: "No kidding, there I was,all alone on the Plain, with nothing but a gnawed antelope thighbone...." His defect runs the other way. He much prefers to stay in the background when there is no active fighting going on, so he dislikes it when OTHERS tell his war stories. And many of those stories exist, too, because he most decidedly does NOT stay in the background when it drops into the pot.
Along the way, he picks up what may be regarded as Boon Companions; mercs who share his approach to the ethics of warfare. They like being on the side of the Good Guys; that isn't always apparent at the beginning of their contracts, in the earliest days of Earth mercs, but the wisdom gathered by participating in a number of battles finely hones his sense for the team he wants to play for. That isn't always a good move, either financially or in terms of personal survival, but it's the path he chooses, and his team goes where he goes.
Even if one of them only does it so he can kill Martin when the time is right.
I have two objections to make, and one of them is slightly ridiculous.
Slightly ridiculous objection: sex with aliens? Nah. Ain't never gonna happen. Human sexual response is primarily determined EARLY in life. Now, PERHAPS the resemblance of one of the species to a sexualized cartoon characters of the mid-80's is a factor here, but otherwise, I'm not buying it. That's ridiculous, because how you gonna have a modern hero without a romance, and I've already accepted 10 other impossible things, but I still don't buy the concept.
The second objection I have is to the lack of place/time designations in the story. The book is laid out in a series of flash-forwards / flash-backwards, and it was a little bit difficult to keep up with where certain events took place in the story. This one may also be slightly ridiculous, because I tend to skip past those labels as I read, but if they are THERE, then at least I can refer back to them if I get confused. I wish that there were clear cues: '10 years earlier, on Planet Yeep....'
Having said that, I devoured the entire book as fast as I could. It was delicious. I have been a fan of Christopher Woods work for a year or two, and my one regret is that he wasn't able to put a Checkers hamburger joint on Planet Karma. The Greek diner will have to do.
AND I EDIT THIS TO ADD!!!
The banter between Martin and his buddies is delightful. Lots of running gags, loads of snark. You'll love it.
March 4, 2020
An even 3 stars. Still not entirely sure what I'm missing here, particularly with all the exuberant reviews populating this title ... and thus make me feel like I've somehow decided to overthrow a planet of particularly peaceful kittens. But honestly, even after stopping reading for a while just to look it up on Wikipedia, I have no clue WHAT an LitRPG is nor do I understand why this book would be considered as such. It's military sci-fi, full stop and it's kind of shallow at that even if it keeps you reading anyway.
It's not bad but, well, you can't say there's no meat here because it's ALL basically meat and bones. Like a bare your teeth and cozy up to the table rack of meat covered in testosterone sauce. Vegetables? Fudge that! But it zooms along at a pace, that's for sure, even if I think a lot of that is owing to the choppy back and forth between our dear Brothers and Sisters in arms! Put it this way: it's a just under 300 page book that reads like it's only 150 to 200 pages long AT MOST. There is no structure beyond being a story that rotates around a couple of teams of galactic mercenaries that themselves are caught in the orbit of the man known in several languages as Legend. And that's probably a huge spoiler though I'm not even sure how.
Sure, while all this is going on, we get to meet dozens of new species (could NOT keep them all straight btw) and watch them either be killed, rescued or even shagged. And in the vaguest way, if I had to compare it I could say there's a trace of John Scalzi's 'Old Man's War' series in all this. Having said that those, Scalzi's books have depth and structure and something other than dialogue and action sequences that ended a few sentences past the first shot being fired. After a while I was yawning more than anything else, even with some (often repeated far too many times) humorous bits added in. VD jokes anyone? I know you're ... hee hee... itching to hear some! But even the climatic kidnapping bit just kind of peters out because let's face it, once the meat sweats start, you need to push away.
I'm also not crazy about this whole 'humans are the most amazing species we've never encountered before even though many of us hate them' because I do believe in my heart of hearts that when and if we're ever contacted by other beings, we will find we're not that great nor unique nor really all that sturdy either. Yes, I had the same problem when Scalzi kind of pushed this, too. And yes, we like killing and love our guns, but you really expect us to be known for great courage, intelligence or empathy? And even after reading about this group, I think only rarely will we be able to present individuals of what any living creature throughout the cosmos will deem to be any decency either.
Bottom-line is that A LOT of what could have been really interesting bits and subplots and more were just either handled too quickly and/or with no build-up of any mention. But it was a lot more entertaining - that's the secret ingredient here - than the plethora of two star books I've read lately so 3 stars it is.
It's not bad but, well, you can't say there's no meat here because it's ALL basically meat and bones. Like a bare your teeth and cozy up to the table rack of meat covered in testosterone sauce. Vegetables? Fudge that! But it zooms along at a pace, that's for sure, even if I think a lot of that is owing to the choppy back and forth between our dear Brothers and Sisters in arms! Put it this way: it's a just under 300 page book that reads like it's only 150 to 200 pages long AT MOST. There is no structure beyond being a story that rotates around a couple of teams of galactic mercenaries that themselves are caught in the orbit of the man known in several languages as Legend. And that's probably a huge spoiler though I'm not even sure how.
Sure, while all this is going on, we get to meet dozens of new species (could NOT keep them all straight btw) and watch them either be killed, rescued or even shagged. And in the vaguest way, if I had to compare it I could say there's a trace of John Scalzi's 'Old Man's War' series in all this. Having said that those, Scalzi's books have depth and structure and something other than dialogue and action sequences that ended a few sentences past the first shot being fired. After a while I was yawning more than anything else, even with some (often repeated far too many times) humorous bits added in. VD jokes anyone? I know you're ... hee hee... itching to hear some! But even the climatic kidnapping bit just kind of peters out because let's face it, once the meat sweats start, you need to push away.
I'm also not crazy about this whole 'humans are the most amazing species we've never encountered before even though many of us hate them' because I do believe in my heart of hearts that when and if we're ever contacted by other beings, we will find we're not that great nor unique nor really all that sturdy either. Yes, I had the same problem when Scalzi kind of pushed this, too. And yes, we like killing and love our guns, but you really expect us to be known for great courage, intelligence or empathy? And even after reading about this group, I think only rarely will we be able to present individuals of what any living creature throughout the cosmos will deem to be any decency either.
Bottom-line is that A LOT of what could have been really interesting bits and subplots and more were just either handled too quickly and/or with no build-up of any mention. But it was a lot more entertaining - that's the secret ingredient here - than the plethora of two star books I've read lately so 3 stars it is.
June 30, 2024
Humanity is brought into the fold of interstellar societies, lo and behold, humanity is the equivalent to a backwater trailer camp. With nothing to offer to interstellar trade but the human corruption and proclivity towards violence humanity doubles down. This is the big plot revealed in the background. In the foreground a group of human mercenaries is trying to make ends meet and secure a piece of the pie in the interstellar mercenary trade.
Humans are portrayed in all their ugly beauty. Barely better than out great ape ancestors thanks to the socialization skills and more brain space for nonessential physiological activity but with all the proclivity for violence and sexual, short term gratification. In an interstellar community of conscious species where majority look to outsource manual labor, humanity is the perfect candidate. Having had the corruption forcefully eradicated by the audit from the interstellar community from other species, all that know-how isn't lost, instead being directed to the said community.
Primary story, following the group of human mercenaries who are physically weaker than some and intellectually below others, humans have an infamy to maintain for the survival of the species. Mercenary story is full of action and inconsistency, one scene introducing a marvel of a sci-fi genre weapons and the next engaging in melee brawl.
Conclusion: 3/5. Listened on Audible included in plus catalogue. Narrated by: Marc Vietor. The background plot of humans are the space orcs type setting is little explored and feeds into the readers knowledge of human propensity for evil. Legend could have been a great start to the series, unfortunately, having followed up on book 2 & 3, the series doesn't come to fruition. Instead each book focuses on mutually unrelated characters in the same universe. DNR, as story leaves many unanswered questions and series could as well been individual works. Terrible value for the length of the book - 3.73 $/hour ( 29.99$ / 08 hrs 03 mins ).
Values:
Terrible: >1.66 $/hour
Bad: 1 - 1.66 $/hour
Good: <1 $/hour
Dream: 0.4 - 0.27 $/hour
Humans are portrayed in all their ugly beauty. Barely better than out great ape ancestors thanks to the socialization skills and more brain space for nonessential physiological activity but with all the proclivity for violence and sexual, short term gratification. In an interstellar community of conscious species where majority look to outsource manual labor, humanity is the perfect candidate. Having had the corruption forcefully eradicated by the audit from the interstellar community from other species, all that know-how isn't lost, instead being directed to the said community.
Primary story, following the group of human mercenaries who are physically weaker than some and intellectually below others, humans have an infamy to maintain for the survival of the species. Mercenary story is full of action and inconsistency, one scene introducing a marvel of a sci-fi genre weapons and the next engaging in melee brawl.
Conclusion: 3/5. Listened on Audible included in plus catalogue. Narrated by: Marc Vietor. The background plot of humans are the space orcs type setting is little explored and feeds into the readers knowledge of human propensity for evil. Legend could have been a great start to the series, unfortunately, having followed up on book 2 & 3, the series doesn't come to fruition. Instead each book focuses on mutually unrelated characters in the same universe. DNR, as story leaves many unanswered questions and series could as well been individual works. Terrible value for the length of the book - 3.73 $/hour ( 29.99$ / 08 hrs 03 mins ).
Values:
Terrible: >1.66 $/hour
Bad: 1 - 1.66 $/hour
Good: <1 $/hour
Dream: 0.4 - 0.27 $/hour
March 31, 2021
One of my favorite things in life is discovering something new that I love. I try a lot of the books that come with the audible membership and give them a few chapters - a real chance - before deciding to keep going, or move on. I have moved on far more than I’ve kept going. The strength of this book is its sense of humor. It comes from the interplay between the main character and those around him - mostly through dialogue that has been carefully crafted and edited to make me laugh.
The story is neither deep nor terribly meaningful, but it carries you along comfortably. The characters are not deep enough to feel like “I know this person, and I could pull up a stool at the bar and have a real conversation with him (or her)”. But they are developed enough not to put a cardboard taste in your mouth. The world building is tongue in cheek and seems stolen from the D&D monster manual, but it’s acknowledged and doesn’t get in the way because it doesn’t take itself over seriously. The musical references help too, it seems I have something in common with the author. Hail to the King!
So Why did I love it? I truly enjoy following a character that strives to be good treating those around him with respect even when under duress. But more than anything, if you make me laugh as many times as Woods did in this book, you win.
The narration was very, very good as well. That can make or break a book in audible form.
The story is neither deep nor terribly meaningful, but it carries you along comfortably. The characters are not deep enough to feel like “I know this person, and I could pull up a stool at the bar and have a real conversation with him (or her)”. But they are developed enough not to put a cardboard taste in your mouth. The world building is tongue in cheek and seems stolen from the D&D monster manual, but it’s acknowledged and doesn’t get in the way because it doesn’t take itself over seriously. The musical references help too, it seems I have something in common with the author. Hail to the King!
So Why did I love it? I truly enjoy following a character that strives to be good treating those around him with respect even when under duress. But more than anything, if you make me laugh as many times as Woods did in this book, you win.
The narration was very, very good as well. That can make or break a book in audible form.
January 19, 2019
Yet another awesome entry in the 4HU series. This book is set a little bit after the Alpha Contracts that began it all, and a little bit earlier than Cartwright's Cavaliers, which is the first book in the series.
Martin Quincy kills a man on Earth, and thanks to a kindly judge, gets to serve his time in a Mercenary unit instead of jail. He survives the 10 years, earning a nickname of "Legend" for his fighting exploits.
The rest of the book is more legendary exploits, including defeating a company of Besquith, which had never been done before.
It was nice to read a book that showed the human Mercs as still learning their trade, and that to the aliens of the Galactic Union, they are oddities that are not understood, and seen as curiosities. We also get to meet a large number of aliens that haven't been heard of before, along with some we have, but in different ways.
I wonder if that human restaurant is still on Karma in the present where humans are under attack by Peepo, and the Guild.
Martin Quincy kills a man on Earth, and thanks to a kindly judge, gets to serve his time in a Mercenary unit instead of jail. He survives the 10 years, earning a nickname of "Legend" for his fighting exploits.
The rest of the book is more legendary exploits, including defeating a company of Besquith, which had never been done before.
It was nice to read a book that showed the human Mercs as still learning their trade, and that to the aliens of the Galactic Union, they are oddities that are not understood, and seen as curiosities. We also get to meet a large number of aliens that haven't been heard of before, along with some we have, but in different ways.
I wonder if that human restaurant is still on Karma in the present where humans are under attack by Peepo, and the Guild.
April 17, 2023
This book starts out with such a jumble of changing tenses, viewpoints, etc. that for the first few chapters, you have no idea who the main character is. Not name, not anything. It's not a technique, it's just a failure to read his own book and edit or to have an editor tell the author to rewrite it. Then, at some point, the author starts writing competently. In general, this book shouldn't really be considered science-fiction and especially not military science-fiction. It's a mix of fantasy and space-opera, with emphasis on the latter. The influence of Star Trek and Captain Kirk as well as Saturday morning cartoons is fairly obvious. It doesn't make for a better book.
Not recommended.
Not recommended.
November 2, 2018
I’d give it more stars if I could!!!
I truly, thoroughly and deeply enjoyed the heck outta this book! It gets a little confusing, for me anyway, because there are so many names, races and planets to remember. But, omg when I realized I was at the end of the book, I was shocked and disappointed because I didn’t want it to end! Then I remembered...this is a series, so no more tears!! Just ready to start the next book! If you like sci-fi, stories that transport you and take you to new and exciting places, and love imagination and truly fantastic story telling, then this is the book series you need to read!
I truly, thoroughly and deeply enjoyed the heck outta this book! It gets a little confusing, for me anyway, because there are so many names, races and planets to remember. But, omg when I realized I was at the end of the book, I was shocked and disappointed because I didn’t want it to end! Then I remembered...this is a series, so no more tears!! Just ready to start the next book! If you like sci-fi, stories that transport you and take you to new and exciting places, and love imagination and truly fantastic story telling, then this is the book series you need to read!
July 24, 2023
Christopher Woods is a house carpenter who moonlights writing military science fiction. Or maybe it’s the other way around. His four Horsemen universe is well conceived. Humans are new to the interstellar community but are one of the few races authorized to serve as mercenaries. That means we have humans and aliens pitted against other humans and aliens. Our hero is Martin Quincy, a veteran with all the warrior skills and a berserker mode when he needs it. He considers himself a soldier just doing his job, but he is called “Legend” in several alien tongues. In the Audible edition, Marc Vietor offers appropriately grizzled narration.
April 5, 2019
A CW. SYFY. Novel (FHTB. - 1)/Interplanetary Mercenaries
CW. has. penned a SYFY. novel. which introduces the Four Horsemen a mercenaries group that accepts assignments across the galaxy. They are hired mercenaries to do the bidding of the contractors. The money is excellent but the life of the mercenaries is short when committed to combat. One such mercenary is known throughout the galaxy. The weapons are the current available ones and there are adequate forms of transportation. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
CW. has. penned a SYFY. novel. which introduces the Four Horsemen a mercenaries group that accepts assignments across the galaxy. They are hired mercenaries to do the bidding of the contractors. The money is excellent but the life of the mercenaries is short when committed to combat. One such mercenary is known throughout the galaxy. The weapons are the current available ones and there are adequate forms of transportation. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
February 24, 2022
It is all about shooting stuff, very little character building, you barely even think about any other character except for the main character. The worlds are so horribly described, you don't know if the main character is fighting in a desert dungeon, or in skyscraper metropolis city. It is honesty just
dull, boring, and definitely not for me!
It could be that, the whole Sci-Fi military Genre is not for me, but I don't think that is the only reason, it isn't the worst book I have read though.
dull, boring, and definitely not for me!
It could be that, the whole Sci-Fi military Genre is not for me, but I don't think that is the only reason, it isn't the worst book I have read though.
August 18, 2023
Excellent book with a new hero
We met the four horseman in the earlier books and each had a uniqueness to them. We first were introduced to Marty in a short story that was provided insights to his background and his "origin story". Like all heroes, his origin story was fraught with challenges that he overcame to be the "legend ". This is a masterful writing with excellent world building and meaningful, exciting fight scenes.
Highly recommend and look forward to reading more about this character, his motley team, and their adventures.
We met the four horseman in the earlier books and each had a uniqueness to them. We first were introduced to Marty in a short story that was provided insights to his background and his "origin story". Like all heroes, his origin story was fraught with challenges that he overcame to be the "legend ". This is a masterful writing with excellent world building and meaningful, exciting fight scenes.
Highly recommend and look forward to reading more about this character, his motley team, and their adventures.
October 31, 2021
This book... This book! When I get frustrated trying to hunt a new sci-fi I go back and read this one. I love the Horseman Chronicles and tales but this one is truely legendary.The characters, the humor, the tech, and awesome aliens ensure there's no dull moment. If you give this one a shot do yourself a favor and imagine Martin Quincy as a young Clint Eastwood. Lol you'll see.
And the Audible version is perfect.
And the Audible version is perfect.
May 20, 2018
Legendary!
Absolutely bloody brilliant! This follows on from a short story called Legend.The characters are great and the dialogue is snappy and amusing.
Also liked the use of Heavy Metal music and it's inspiration for the aliens and the mention of my little pony brought a smile to my face.
A cracking start to a new series in the Four Horsemen Universe! Can't praise this enough!
Absolutely bloody brilliant! This follows on from a short story called Legend.The characters are great and the dialogue is snappy and amusing.
Also liked the use of Heavy Metal music and it's inspiration for the aliens and the mention of my little pony brought a smile to my face.
A cracking start to a new series in the Four Horsemen Universe! Can't praise this enough!
October 15, 2019
A second series in my favorite shared world
Christopher Woods has definitely woon meer over as a fan. I expect professional writing and editing from this series, but his characterization, user of humor and alien creation skills are top-notch as well. I had a hard time putting this book down long enough to do my work.
Christopher Woods has definitely woon meer over as a fan. I expect professional writing and editing from this series, but his characterization, user of humor and alien creation skills are top-notch as well. I had a hard time putting this book down long enough to do my work.
October 15, 2020
Outstanding - Maybe best in the series
Over the last two months, I've read 49 books in the Four Horsemen Universe in the order specified on their website. This, book #49 in the recommended order, is quite possibly the best. Certainly in the top 5. Funny, great characters, and well written.
Over the last two months, I've read 49 books in the Four Horsemen Universe in the order specified on their website. This, book #49 in the recommended order, is quite possibly the best. Certainly in the top 5. Funny, great characters, and well written.
March 7, 2021
Fantastic military sci-fi
Loved the world building, the interactions between the characters, the aliens. It was great all around. My favorite character was the one who kept getting so comically unsettled by the bigger, scarier aliens laughing or smiling. It was hilarious.
Definitely wish they went more into detail with the action but there was still plenty to sink my teeth into.
Loved the world building, the interactions between the characters, the aliens. It was great all around. My favorite character was the one who kept getting so comically unsettled by the bigger, scarier aliens laughing or smiling. It was hilarious.
Definitely wish they went more into detail with the action but there was still plenty to sink my teeth into.
December 19, 2021
Some very excellent military science fiction. If you're looking for some action packed alien encounters, and a bit of humor mixed in, then you've come to the right place. This book was great fun. I'm certainly looking for more from this author, and/or in this universe, since I've liked the others I've read in this universe before.
February 17, 2023
Pure Delight
I’ve read 69/71 of the 4HU mainline plot and all but a handful of the offline novels and Legend just may be THE most delightful of them all. Chock full of humor and a surprising dash of inter-species romance this read will make you smile again and again at the antics of the man called “Legend.”
I’ve read 69/71 of the 4HU mainline plot and all but a handful of the offline novels and Legend just may be THE most delightful of them all. Chock full of humor and a surprising dash of inter-species romance this read will make you smile again and again at the antics of the man called “Legend.”
February 21, 2023
Action and laughter. Fantastic
Loved this, made me laugh and smile l. Some science fiction gets high brow or technical, but not in this case, although that's not to say it has been dumbed down. Shows some of the best attributes of what it is to be human. A highly entertaining read.
Loved this, made me laugh and smile l. Some science fiction gets high brow or technical, but not in this case, although that's not to say it has been dumbed down. Shows some of the best attributes of what it is to be human. A highly entertaining read.
September 22, 2023
A great listen.
A fun story - not very complex in plot or characters but an easy and enjoyable listen with characters who are varied and mostly edifying or otherwise entertaining to hear about.
Narration is very good, I never was taken out of the story. It seems very natural and enhances the story.
A fun story - not very complex in plot or characters but an easy and enjoyable listen with characters who are varied and mostly edifying or otherwise entertaining to hear about.
Narration is very good, I never was taken out of the story. It seems very natural and enhances the story.
May 18, 2018
Amazing!!!!!
Nothing better than a reluctant Legend. Battles, bantering, bad kitties, and lots of booms and breaking of things. Excellent story, exciting situations, and extraordinary characters. Looking forward to the next piece of a Legend!!
Nothing better than a reluctant Legend. Battles, bantering, bad kitties, and lots of booms and breaking of things. Excellent story, exciting situations, and extraordinary characters. Looking forward to the next piece of a Legend!!
May 19, 2018
A parallel story line from when Casper's were new ...
A fast paced, action packed parallel storyline. Looking forward to the next book in this story line and a further fleshing out of the Four Horseman universe.
A fast paced, action packed parallel storyline. Looking forward to the next book in this story line and a further fleshing out of the Four Horseman universe.
May 24, 2018
This is funny!
I found the short story about the protagonist in the "Fistful of Credits" amusing, but this... This is just hilarious. A touch of "Marty Sue" to the character, but done so light heatedly, that I just can't stop turning the pages. Good reads, this one.
I found the short story about the protagonist in the "Fistful of Credits" amusing, but this... This is just hilarious. A touch of "Marty Sue" to the character, but done so light heatedly, that I just can't stop turning the pages. Good reads, this one.
July 18, 2018
It tried to get my attention, just didn't take off.
About 10% into the book. And it is all "I'm a bad ass!". The single point of view, with no inner monologue, was a little off putting compared to the other stories in the series.
About 10% into the book. And it is all "I'm a bad ass!". The single point of view, with no inner monologue, was a little off putting compared to the other stories in the series.
August 1, 2018
Fun, Fast, Entertaining
I'm beginning to look forward to Christopher Woods' work. "Legend" is a great piece of work in the Four Horsemen world. The characters a solid and interesting. The action is well plotted and nonstop
I am so looking forward to more!
I'm beginning to look forward to Christopher Woods' work. "Legend" is a great piece of work in the Four Horsemen world. The characters a solid and interesting. The action is well plotted and nonstop
I am so looking forward to more!
September 22, 2018
Enjoyable
A really fun and entertaining read, it moves pretty fast and has some cool characters and action. Surprisingly profound at times, character dialogue and development could be improved a bit to be more nuanced and fluid, but still a good read.
A really fun and entertaining read, it moves pretty fast and has some cool characters and action. Surprisingly profound at times, character dialogue and development could be improved a bit to be more nuanced and fluid, but still a good read.
January 18, 2019
A wonderful read!
This is a must read for lovers of the FH Universe., Fun,fairly quick read that tells us quite a bit more about our dear Martin Quincy. There's action,humour,drama and some romance too. A brilliant read.
This is a must read for lovers of the FH Universe., Fun,fairly quick read that tells us quite a bit more about our dear Martin Quincy. There's action,humour,drama and some romance too. A brilliant read.
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