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Galaxy's Edge #1
Legionnaire
The Galaxy is a Dumpster Fire
A hot, stinking, dumpster fire. And most days I don't know if the legionnaires are putting out the flames, or fanning them into an inferno.
A hostile force ambushes Victory Company during a reconnaissance-in-force deep inside enemy territory. Stranded behind enemy lines, a sergeant must lead a band of survivors against merciless insurgents on a deadly alien world somewhere along the galaxy's edge. With no room for error, the Republic's elite fighting force must struggle to survive under siege while waiting on a rescue that might never come.
When you think you've surrounded the Legion... you've just made your last mistake.
A hot, stinking, dumpster fire. And most days I don't know if the legionnaires are putting out the flames, or fanning them into an inferno.
A hostile force ambushes Victory Company during a reconnaissance-in-force deep inside enemy territory. Stranded behind enemy lines, a sergeant must lead a band of survivors against merciless insurgents on a deadly alien world somewhere along the galaxy's edge. With no room for error, the Republic's elite fighting force must struggle to survive under siege while waiting on a rescue that might never come.
When you think you've surrounded the Legion... you've just made your last mistake.
276 pages, Hardcover
First published June 12, 2017
4064 people are currently reading
4231 people want to read
About the author
Jason Anspach
186 books839 followersJASON ANSPACH is the author of Galaxy's Edge, Wayward Galaxy, Forgotten Ruin. and more.
He lives in Puyallup, WA with his wife and their seven (not a typo) children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 558 reviews
July 23, 2018
Tense...and Xenophobic, Racist, Classist, Sexist, and Jingoistic
As a military tale, Legionnaire is old school. The sci-fi equivalent of a 1950s war film, the pacing and action relentless. The characters, standard archetypes differentiated by class, separated into two primary groups. Those the main character and his men consider to be real soldiers, the Legionnaires, and those who are not, which is everyone else. Trial by combat will judge who is worthy of the respect of the main character, a Legionnaire through and through.
There are hints early on that authors Jason Anspach and Nick Cole understand their story is populated by bigots, including their lead character. Foreshadowing a character arc in which he will confront his own very human prejudices. Anspach and Cole have no interest in that journey, as the introduction of the lone female character given anything to do, and an overly long epilogue, will definitively confirm.
This is a somber view of hyper masculinity as an admirable trait. A screed about the idiots in government prioritizing quick economic gain over the lives of good men. Good men sent to far away lands to die by the hands of an uncivilized, duplicitous other.
What's most disturbing is that Anspach and Cole are too damn good at pulling readers into the fray. We just don't want the Legionnaries to get the hell off of Kublar, we want them to kill as many Koobs as possible. Remove the sci-fi trappings, Kublar is Iraq. Afghanistan. Any place that is predominantly populated by brown and black peoples, and is in perpetual turmoil when viewed through a militarized and Western lens.
I wish I could give this more of a recommendation.
The battles in military sci-fi is often the descriptive slog one has to power through, if not outright skim, to get to the book's end. Hopefully, picking up on the information that is relevant to the plot and has impact on the characters along the way. Spatial relationships are near impossible to discern. The battles are repetitive, padding out the page count. Regardless of outcome, previous battles don't shape the ones that follow.
Anspach and Cole know how to build tension, sustain it, and not undercut it. Their action is clear. You know where characters are, what they are doing, and how their decisions influence the direction of the battle. And Each battle is distinct from the last. As the locations change--as the characters learn new information--so do the tactics. While the characters who aren't fleshed out, you know who is who, and you develop a vague sense of they are. It's enough to make every death sting, even if you immediately forget the name of the man who just died.
It is doubtful I could move on to the next book without feeling complicit in supporting an unquestioning view of the military. As a mundane, thankless job real men aren't afraid to do, cowards avoid, and the powerful elite exploit for their own ends. And a tacit thesis that militarized violence can be justified when the other is different in custom and language, strange in appearance, and a killable, disposable enemy based on nothing more than the word of a faceless authority.
As a military tale, Legionnaire is old school. The sci-fi equivalent of a 1950s war film, the pacing and action relentless. The characters, standard archetypes differentiated by class, separated into two primary groups. Those the main character and his men consider to be real soldiers, the Legionnaires, and those who are not, which is everyone else. Trial by combat will judge who is worthy of the respect of the main character, a Legionnaire through and through.
There are hints early on that authors Jason Anspach and Nick Cole understand their story is populated by bigots, including their lead character. Foreshadowing a character arc in which he will confront his own very human prejudices. Anspach and Cole have no interest in that journey, as the introduction of the lone female character given anything to do, and an overly long epilogue, will definitively confirm.
This is a somber view of hyper masculinity as an admirable trait. A screed about the idiots in government prioritizing quick economic gain over the lives of good men. Good men sent to far away lands to die by the hands of an uncivilized, duplicitous other.
What's most disturbing is that Anspach and Cole are too damn good at pulling readers into the fray. We just don't want the Legionnaries to get the hell off of Kublar, we want them to kill as many Koobs as possible. Remove the sci-fi trappings, Kublar is Iraq. Afghanistan. Any place that is predominantly populated by brown and black peoples, and is in perpetual turmoil when viewed through a militarized and Western lens.
I wish I could give this more of a recommendation.
The battles in military sci-fi is often the descriptive slog one has to power through, if not outright skim, to get to the book's end. Hopefully, picking up on the information that is relevant to the plot and has impact on the characters along the way. Spatial relationships are near impossible to discern. The battles are repetitive, padding out the page count. Regardless of outcome, previous battles don't shape the ones that follow.
Anspach and Cole know how to build tension, sustain it, and not undercut it. Their action is clear. You know where characters are, what they are doing, and how their decisions influence the direction of the battle. And Each battle is distinct from the last. As the locations change--as the characters learn new information--so do the tactics. While the characters who aren't fleshed out, you know who is who, and you develop a vague sense of they are. It's enough to make every death sting, even if you immediately forget the name of the man who just died.
It is doubtful I could move on to the next book without feeling complicit in supporting an unquestioning view of the military. As a mundane, thankless job real men aren't afraid to do, cowards avoid, and the powerful elite exploit for their own ends. And a tacit thesis that militarized violence can be justified when the other is different in custom and language, strange in appearance, and a killable, disposable enemy based on nothing more than the word of a faceless authority.
June 17, 2017
A work of military science fiction so detailed you can feel the equipment and choke on the dust. Elite troops find themselves cut off in enemy-occupied territory, and as the saying goes: "They've got us surrounded, they can't get away"
The story has some inspiration in games like Halo and the Clone Wars, but the authors' write a tale all their own, full of grit, realism and the warrior ethos that remains unchanged no matter the landscape and equipment. It also serves as a prime instruction manual for authors of science fiction wishing to depict combat on an alien sphere. The quality is high and the action doesn't let up.
The story has some inspiration in games like Halo and the Clone Wars, but the authors' write a tale all their own, full of grit, realism and the warrior ethos that remains unchanged no matter the landscape and equipment. It also serves as a prime instruction manual for authors of science fiction wishing to depict combat on an alien sphere. The quality is high and the action doesn't let up.
August 31, 2017
Summary:
First, let me say that none of what I’ll say in this section couldn’t be found on the back copy of the novel. Heck, I cribbed this summary from the back, and then I add my own twist! And not even much of one, since most of the books I read have kick butt descriptions (aka blurbs). If the blurb doesn’t catch my eye, then I tend to skip the book unless a friend recommends it. Generally speaking, my goal is to provide a spoiler free review, so here goes nothing!
The Legionnaire understands that the galaxy is a dumpster fire, a hot, stinking, dumpster fire. And most of the troops don’t know if they’re putting out the flames or fanning them into an inferno. What started out as a three-hour tour, okay…wrong story. What started out as a basic political meet-and-greet mission turns deadly when a hostile force ambushes Victory Company. What should’ve been a reconnaissance-in-force, deep inside enemy territory to secure a political alliance gets ugly fast. Stranded behind enemy lines, a sergeant must lead his band of survivors against merciless insurgents on a deadly alien planet. A world somewhere along the galaxy’s edge, where even the gods fear to tread. With no room for error, the Republic’s elite fighting force must struggle to survive under siege, while waiting for a rescue that might never come. When you think you’ve surrounded the Legion… you’ve just made your last mistake.
If you like epic space opera, with a side of military science fiction, you should read this series. Plenty of explosions, with authentically gritty combat. If this sounds like your flavor of badassery, then you’ve come to the right place! This novel is a brilliant introduction to the Galaxy’s Edge Universe, where they fix everything George Lucas broke in this Star-Wars-Not-Star-Wars adventure. I wish I could give you an easy comparison, if you enjoyed Book X, buy this book… but I really feel like Nick and Jason broke new ground here. They’ve revived that sense of newness and fun that we loved as children, that brought most of us to the science fiction genre! There are other military sci-fi books out there, but none quite like this!
Characters:
In this novel, we meet a diverse group of Legionnaires, regular army, and political appointees but the main character is Legionnaire Sergeant Cohen Chhun. He’s a grizzled veteran of the numerous campaigns, but he felt real and not one of those stereotypical military killers. He was badass, a consummate professional and genuinely good NCO for his troops. He’s the kind of guy you’d want on your side in a firefight, though he’s a bit of an ass to his own subordinates. However, in this instance, it just seems to be a part of the larger Legionnaire culture. They’re hard men and women, in a dangerous universe, protecting the Republic from rebel scum! You don’t see a lot of character growth from him in this book, but you don’t feel left out. Instead, it seems like they’re building something huge, and you end up hopeful that you’ll get to see big things from him in the future. Even with a somewhat static view of Chhun, in a very brief period of time, you get the sense that he’s a deeply complex man. Overall, I really liked him.
In addition to the main character, there were other Legionnaires in Victory Company that we meet as well. All of these warriors felt flushed out and three-dimensional. They all added to what is clearly a vast and expansive universe. All of the characters were a lot of fun to get to know and made me feel like I was back in the Army again. I felt like I could relate to them as people, and I would love to hang out and drink a beer with them.
Overall, I will give these characters 5 out of 5 Grenades and can’t wait to see where the author takes this character throughout this new series!
Plot:
Like most of the military fiction, I love to read, this was an action-packed novel. The story is set in a galaxy far, far away when humanity is post-Sol System. The premise for this series was to take the kind of Star Wars stories we used to love, strip out all of the political messaging, and just tell fun tales. Escapism and enjoyment, under the banner of intergalactic science fiction. We get to see the world through a first person point-of-view which took some getting used to, but let you feel the chaos and confusion that combat brings. We see the world only via Chhun’s eyes, which I would’ve thought might limit a book, but with this one, once I got used to it I didn’t notice. I never felt cheated, or like I should’ve seen bits that happened off screen. It was a good set-up and well-executed premise that held my interest from the first sentence. The plot grew and expanded, and I can only image bigger things coming from the Galaxy’s Edge world. The author balanced the action, with the exposition and world building, so the story never felt flat. At times it was confusing, as there were a lot of words and expressions that didn’t make sense. It felt like there would be forthcoming explanations, so it didn’t knock me out of the story. I think that I’ve become conditioned to these large expansive worlds because of the copious amounts of space opera that I read. Maybe your mileage will vary, but it’s definitely worth checking this book out. As you can tell by the gushing, I really got into this book. I couldn’t put it down, the plot was that compelling. I really loved the premise, and more importantly, I enjoyed how the execution. The pacing was excellent, and there was never a slow moment. I couldn’t ask for anything more; a unique premise, perfect execution, and incredible pacing! I again give Cole/Anspach 5 out of 5 Grenades!
World Building:
This is the first book in the Galaxy’s Edge Series, and I absolutely loved it. Can I say that enough? Okay, back to the nitty gritty of the review. This novel had a very flushed out world that was consistent, made sense and sucked you in. I loved the way they handled inserting new tidbits about the larger universe and history in such a way that you didn’t even notice. They did it so well that you never felt like you were missing anything important. There were parts that weren’t there, but rather than detract from the world building, it made the universe feel that much larger. It definitely made me want to become part of the larger world. Seriously, when can I buy some Galaxy’s Edge swag? I was hooked, and now I want to know it all! I definitely see room for CosPlay and a fandom for this world, and can’t wait for my own Legionnaire armor! They described the world with plenty of details, and there wasn’t a scene where I couldn’t picture it. They didn’t reinvent the wheel and built on the existing troupes of science fiction. They just made it sexier! The most exciting part was the creation of his own Legion since as a kid I grew up watching Star Wars and always wanted to join the Storm Troopers. And yeah, we all know Han shot first! But who needs Han, when they gave us Galaxy’s Edge? The nameless, faceless troopers became real, and one of those “use at your own risk” type of tools for the Republic. The MCR rebel scum doesn’t stand a chance! Overall, the world building was well done, and I was sold on the way it happened. It felt believable, and the characters fit within the universe Cole/Anspach created. It was a fun ride that made me wanna suit up…which is the goal of action/adventure authors! Like most of the stories I read, this one didn’t take itself too seriously, which allowed you to focus on the fun which is why I read in the first place. I give the world building 5 out of 5 Grenades. In fact, I almost want to redo my ranking system so I can give it an even better score!
Description:
I have to give it to the authors, this novel was chalk full of visualization, and you could definitely imagine yourself in this world. He described things across the sensory spectrum; sights, sounds, smells and even how the world felt. This is how it’s done, and I hope to get that good some day. While I could visualize all of the worlds, I would still love it if the authors shared artists renderings from this immersive world! If it’s only a tenth as cool as what I pictured in my head, it would be worth every penny. Like many authors, this duo went lite on the details on how everyone looked, but you got around it because of the combat armor. I was too busy picturing them as Storm-Troopers-Not-Storm-Troopers. I know this is the current trend, so I reluctantly accept it, but I don’t personally like it. And at least with this book, you hardly notice since you imagine their iconic slate gray armor. A huge plus for me was Nick Cole and Jason Anspach’s descriptive use of language, they balanced the explanation of this new world with the need to move a story along. This book didn’t have a single place where I couldn’t picture the scenery and the equipment, which added to the world that felt tangible and I enjoyed it. The author’s description of their universe was evocative, and converted me into an uber fan! The only slight draw back of how descriptive they were, it was was a little bit distracting. Seriously, it made you wanna take a moment and explore every nook and cranny, but that’s a sign of an amazingly built universe. And a little birdy told me that they DO intend to explore those nooks and crannies! In summary, I didn’t find any issues with the descriptions and was impressed by the literary skills of the authors. The action was gripping, and the story was fun. If you want the action, the adventure, and the PEW PEW, then this is the book for you! Nick Cole and Jason Anspach brought it, they were definitely their A game. I give them 5 out of 5 grenades in this category.
Overall:
I really loved this book, it was a lot of fun to read. It brought back the epic space romps I read and loved as a kid. No deep messages, or political themes, just good clean fun. I even found myself hiding in the bathroom so I could read this book while I was supposed to be editing my own book! Shh, don’t tell Boss Man! The story was compelling and made me want to join the Legion. Let’s be real, my fighting days are over, but I could forget that while I read this book. I could be young and spry again, capable of chewing lead, spitting out bullets and walking through fire. Definitely gave me a case of the feels, and I found myself wanting to be a part of it all. I couldn’t afford to be a paying member of the Galactic Legion, but at least I could serve in an auxiliary role by spreading the word. I don’t want to come on too strong, but I loved this book. It’s right up there with Terry Mixon’s Empire of Bones series. Maybe there’s just something about a few old Army guys telling stories that I love?
When I read this book, I mourned the loss of the brave warriors killed in battle. I raised my micro-brewed beer, toasting in their honor! This was my first Nick Cole and Jason Anspach novel, and I’m sold. The first thing that caught my eye was the fantastic cover, it was amazingly compelling. Seriously, if I weren’t color blind and art dumb, I’d add a section to the book review template on the covers because so many of them are kicking butt these days! I know I said this about Scott Bartlett’s cover too, but the caliber of covers is certainly improving, and this book just kicks Awesome up a notch! They reminded me of the fun comic images I loved, or movie posters from the action adventures I read when I was supposed to be studying. When I finally have a dedicated office or man cave, I’m decorating it with these covers! And whenever they sell swag, that too!
So, onto the book itself. The military culture shown was spot on, just what I’d expect from an Army veteran. That’s right, Nick Cole served in the US Army, and it showed in his understanding of the culture of the grunt! Nick and Jason made it clear that their world was flushed out, and didn’t fall into some of the traps most military sci fi did. The troops run out of ammo, dumb luck happens, and good soldiers still die. Moving right along, the ground combat described was primal, and immersive. It was everything you want from the genre. The battle scenes were believable, gripping and I never felt like the author missed a chance to get creative with the tactics. It was text book KTF, the mantra of the Legionnaire! Kill them first! Such a detailed portrayal of the tactics is rare. It was nice to add another universe to the list!
Seriously, I realize I’ve gone full fanboy, but the authors have definitely raised the bar for military science fiction authors everywhere. I was hooked from the first page! They wove the action in such a compelling way that you wanted to jump into the Legionnaire Armor myself. Basically, they had me hooked from the beginning and kept it going throughout the whole novel. This is a book I would happily recommend, and an author I will definitely read again. Buy the novel! But hey, it’s easy to spend someone else’s money! I give this novel a 5 out of 5 grenades! If it weren’t cheating, I’d give it 6 grenades!
If this book sounds like it’s right up your alley, check it out, you won’t regret it! Well, unless it inspired you to serve the Legion. And you enlist, get kitted up, only to realize that your armor is made of wax paper. Then you’re put on the front lines, getting to be on the tip of the spear. In your first fire fight, you’ll realize that the pretty uniforms won’t save you. And then the other shoe drops, you figure out that the weapons aren’t calibrated, and you can’t hit the broad side of a barn. But, alas, every rebel scum is a crack shot. Well yeah, I guess this could be bad for you. Or maybe you’ll be okay? I mean, you could be the first trooper to make it out alive? On second thought, be warned, fanboy/fangirl syndrome just MIGHT kill you. Be wary, you were warned and if you have to go out like that at least enjoy the view from the end times!
First, let me say that none of what I’ll say in this section couldn’t be found on the back copy of the novel. Heck, I cribbed this summary from the back, and then I add my own twist! And not even much of one, since most of the books I read have kick butt descriptions (aka blurbs). If the blurb doesn’t catch my eye, then I tend to skip the book unless a friend recommends it. Generally speaking, my goal is to provide a spoiler free review, so here goes nothing!
The Legionnaire understands that the galaxy is a dumpster fire, a hot, stinking, dumpster fire. And most of the troops don’t know if they’re putting out the flames or fanning them into an inferno. What started out as a three-hour tour, okay…wrong story. What started out as a basic political meet-and-greet mission turns deadly when a hostile force ambushes Victory Company. What should’ve been a reconnaissance-in-force, deep inside enemy territory to secure a political alliance gets ugly fast. Stranded behind enemy lines, a sergeant must lead his band of survivors against merciless insurgents on a deadly alien planet. A world somewhere along the galaxy’s edge, where even the gods fear to tread. With no room for error, the Republic’s elite fighting force must struggle to survive under siege, while waiting for a rescue that might never come. When you think you’ve surrounded the Legion… you’ve just made your last mistake.
If you like epic space opera, with a side of military science fiction, you should read this series. Plenty of explosions, with authentically gritty combat. If this sounds like your flavor of badassery, then you’ve come to the right place! This novel is a brilliant introduction to the Galaxy’s Edge Universe, where they fix everything George Lucas broke in this Star-Wars-Not-Star-Wars adventure. I wish I could give you an easy comparison, if you enjoyed Book X, buy this book… but I really feel like Nick and Jason broke new ground here. They’ve revived that sense of newness and fun that we loved as children, that brought most of us to the science fiction genre! There are other military sci-fi books out there, but none quite like this!
Characters:
In this novel, we meet a diverse group of Legionnaires, regular army, and political appointees but the main character is Legionnaire Sergeant Cohen Chhun. He’s a grizzled veteran of the numerous campaigns, but he felt real and not one of those stereotypical military killers. He was badass, a consummate professional and genuinely good NCO for his troops. He’s the kind of guy you’d want on your side in a firefight, though he’s a bit of an ass to his own subordinates. However, in this instance, it just seems to be a part of the larger Legionnaire culture. They’re hard men and women, in a dangerous universe, protecting the Republic from rebel scum! You don’t see a lot of character growth from him in this book, but you don’t feel left out. Instead, it seems like they’re building something huge, and you end up hopeful that you’ll get to see big things from him in the future. Even with a somewhat static view of Chhun, in a very brief period of time, you get the sense that he’s a deeply complex man. Overall, I really liked him.
In addition to the main character, there were other Legionnaires in Victory Company that we meet as well. All of these warriors felt flushed out and three-dimensional. They all added to what is clearly a vast and expansive universe. All of the characters were a lot of fun to get to know and made me feel like I was back in the Army again. I felt like I could relate to them as people, and I would love to hang out and drink a beer with them.
Overall, I will give these characters 5 out of 5 Grenades and can’t wait to see where the author takes this character throughout this new series!
Plot:
Like most of the military fiction, I love to read, this was an action-packed novel. The story is set in a galaxy far, far away when humanity is post-Sol System. The premise for this series was to take the kind of Star Wars stories we used to love, strip out all of the political messaging, and just tell fun tales. Escapism and enjoyment, under the banner of intergalactic science fiction. We get to see the world through a first person point-of-view which took some getting used to, but let you feel the chaos and confusion that combat brings. We see the world only via Chhun’s eyes, which I would’ve thought might limit a book, but with this one, once I got used to it I didn’t notice. I never felt cheated, or like I should’ve seen bits that happened off screen. It was a good set-up and well-executed premise that held my interest from the first sentence. The plot grew and expanded, and I can only image bigger things coming from the Galaxy’s Edge world. The author balanced the action, with the exposition and world building, so the story never felt flat. At times it was confusing, as there were a lot of words and expressions that didn’t make sense. It felt like there would be forthcoming explanations, so it didn’t knock me out of the story. I think that I’ve become conditioned to these large expansive worlds because of the copious amounts of space opera that I read. Maybe your mileage will vary, but it’s definitely worth checking this book out. As you can tell by the gushing, I really got into this book. I couldn’t put it down, the plot was that compelling. I really loved the premise, and more importantly, I enjoyed how the execution. The pacing was excellent, and there was never a slow moment. I couldn’t ask for anything more; a unique premise, perfect execution, and incredible pacing! I again give Cole/Anspach 5 out of 5 Grenades!
World Building:
This is the first book in the Galaxy’s Edge Series, and I absolutely loved it. Can I say that enough? Okay, back to the nitty gritty of the review. This novel had a very flushed out world that was consistent, made sense and sucked you in. I loved the way they handled inserting new tidbits about the larger universe and history in such a way that you didn’t even notice. They did it so well that you never felt like you were missing anything important. There were parts that weren’t there, but rather than detract from the world building, it made the universe feel that much larger. It definitely made me want to become part of the larger world. Seriously, when can I buy some Galaxy’s Edge swag? I was hooked, and now I want to know it all! I definitely see room for CosPlay and a fandom for this world, and can’t wait for my own Legionnaire armor! They described the world with plenty of details, and there wasn’t a scene where I couldn’t picture it. They didn’t reinvent the wheel and built on the existing troupes of science fiction. They just made it sexier! The most exciting part was the creation of his own Legion since as a kid I grew up watching Star Wars and always wanted to join the Storm Troopers. And yeah, we all know Han shot first! But who needs Han, when they gave us Galaxy’s Edge? The nameless, faceless troopers became real, and one of those “use at your own risk” type of tools for the Republic. The MCR rebel scum doesn’t stand a chance! Overall, the world building was well done, and I was sold on the way it happened. It felt believable, and the characters fit within the universe Cole/Anspach created. It was a fun ride that made me wanna suit up…which is the goal of action/adventure authors! Like most of the stories I read, this one didn’t take itself too seriously, which allowed you to focus on the fun which is why I read in the first place. I give the world building 5 out of 5 Grenades. In fact, I almost want to redo my ranking system so I can give it an even better score!
Description:
I have to give it to the authors, this novel was chalk full of visualization, and you could definitely imagine yourself in this world. He described things across the sensory spectrum; sights, sounds, smells and even how the world felt. This is how it’s done, and I hope to get that good some day. While I could visualize all of the worlds, I would still love it if the authors shared artists renderings from this immersive world! If it’s only a tenth as cool as what I pictured in my head, it would be worth every penny. Like many authors, this duo went lite on the details on how everyone looked, but you got around it because of the combat armor. I was too busy picturing them as Storm-Troopers-Not-Storm-Troopers. I know this is the current trend, so I reluctantly accept it, but I don’t personally like it. And at least with this book, you hardly notice since you imagine their iconic slate gray armor. A huge plus for me was Nick Cole and Jason Anspach’s descriptive use of language, they balanced the explanation of this new world with the need to move a story along. This book didn’t have a single place where I couldn’t picture the scenery and the equipment, which added to the world that felt tangible and I enjoyed it. The author’s description of their universe was evocative, and converted me into an uber fan! The only slight draw back of how descriptive they were, it was was a little bit distracting. Seriously, it made you wanna take a moment and explore every nook and cranny, but that’s a sign of an amazingly built universe. And a little birdy told me that they DO intend to explore those nooks and crannies! In summary, I didn’t find any issues with the descriptions and was impressed by the literary skills of the authors. The action was gripping, and the story was fun. If you want the action, the adventure, and the PEW PEW, then this is the book for you! Nick Cole and Jason Anspach brought it, they were definitely their A game. I give them 5 out of 5 grenades in this category.
Overall:
I really loved this book, it was a lot of fun to read. It brought back the epic space romps I read and loved as a kid. No deep messages, or political themes, just good clean fun. I even found myself hiding in the bathroom so I could read this book while I was supposed to be editing my own book! Shh, don’t tell Boss Man! The story was compelling and made me want to join the Legion. Let’s be real, my fighting days are over, but I could forget that while I read this book. I could be young and spry again, capable of chewing lead, spitting out bullets and walking through fire. Definitely gave me a case of the feels, and I found myself wanting to be a part of it all. I couldn’t afford to be a paying member of the Galactic Legion, but at least I could serve in an auxiliary role by spreading the word. I don’t want to come on too strong, but I loved this book. It’s right up there with Terry Mixon’s Empire of Bones series. Maybe there’s just something about a few old Army guys telling stories that I love?
When I read this book, I mourned the loss of the brave warriors killed in battle. I raised my micro-brewed beer, toasting in their honor! This was my first Nick Cole and Jason Anspach novel, and I’m sold. The first thing that caught my eye was the fantastic cover, it was amazingly compelling. Seriously, if I weren’t color blind and art dumb, I’d add a section to the book review template on the covers because so many of them are kicking butt these days! I know I said this about Scott Bartlett’s cover too, but the caliber of covers is certainly improving, and this book just kicks Awesome up a notch! They reminded me of the fun comic images I loved, or movie posters from the action adventures I read when I was supposed to be studying. When I finally have a dedicated office or man cave, I’m decorating it with these covers! And whenever they sell swag, that too!
So, onto the book itself. The military culture shown was spot on, just what I’d expect from an Army veteran. That’s right, Nick Cole served in the US Army, and it showed in his understanding of the culture of the grunt! Nick and Jason made it clear that their world was flushed out, and didn’t fall into some of the traps most military sci fi did. The troops run out of ammo, dumb luck happens, and good soldiers still die. Moving right along, the ground combat described was primal, and immersive. It was everything you want from the genre. The battle scenes were believable, gripping and I never felt like the author missed a chance to get creative with the tactics. It was text book KTF, the mantra of the Legionnaire! Kill them first! Such a detailed portrayal of the tactics is rare. It was nice to add another universe to the list!
Seriously, I realize I’ve gone full fanboy, but the authors have definitely raised the bar for military science fiction authors everywhere. I was hooked from the first page! They wove the action in such a compelling way that you wanted to jump into the Legionnaire Armor myself. Basically, they had me hooked from the beginning and kept it going throughout the whole novel. This is a book I would happily recommend, and an author I will definitely read again. Buy the novel! But hey, it’s easy to spend someone else’s money! I give this novel a 5 out of 5 grenades! If it weren’t cheating, I’d give it 6 grenades!
If this book sounds like it’s right up your alley, check it out, you won’t regret it! Well, unless it inspired you to serve the Legion. And you enlist, get kitted up, only to realize that your armor is made of wax paper. Then you’re put on the front lines, getting to be on the tip of the spear. In your first fire fight, you’ll realize that the pretty uniforms won’t save you. And then the other shoe drops, you figure out that the weapons aren’t calibrated, and you can’t hit the broad side of a barn. But, alas, every rebel scum is a crack shot. Well yeah, I guess this could be bad for you. Or maybe you’ll be okay? I mean, you could be the first trooper to make it out alive? On second thought, be warned, fanboy/fangirl syndrome just MIGHT kill you. Be wary, you were warned and if you have to go out like that at least enjoy the view from the end times!
September 11, 2022
Charles van Buren
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
Good combat story
January 13, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
Decent military sci-fi with the emphasis on military. The same story could have been set in a British colonial war, the French colonies in North Africa, U.S. Wars in Vietnam, Korea, Afghanistan or the various American Indian wars. Real soldiers, their actions and reactions, their loyalty to each other, do not really change with advances in technology.
Just for fun, here's a quote from another review on a forum other than Amazon, "Tense...and Xenophobic, Racist, Classist, Sexist and Jingoistic." He didn't like it. Doesn't seem to like the real world much either. If you don't understand that in most wars, most soldiers dehumanize their opponents because it makes killing them more palatable, not palatable but more palatable, then you should avoid this book like the plague. Stick to politically correct pap.
I do agree somewhat with the complaints about a weak ending. On the other hand, it could be regarded as a thoughtful ending. Nothing ever really changes. Human nature is a constant.
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
Good combat story
January 13, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
Decent military sci-fi with the emphasis on military. The same story could have been set in a British colonial war, the French colonies in North Africa, U.S. Wars in Vietnam, Korea, Afghanistan or the various American Indian wars. Real soldiers, their actions and reactions, their loyalty to each other, do not really change with advances in technology.
Just for fun, here's a quote from another review on a forum other than Amazon, "Tense...and Xenophobic, Racist, Classist, Sexist and Jingoistic." He didn't like it. Doesn't seem to like the real world much either. If you don't understand that in most wars, most soldiers dehumanize their opponents because it makes killing them more palatable, not palatable but more palatable, then you should avoid this book like the plague. Stick to politically correct pap.
I do agree somewhat with the complaints about a weak ending. On the other hand, it could be regarded as a thoughtful ending. Nothing ever really changes. Human nature is a constant.
March 19, 2018
Coming from where I’m from I can’t enjoy a book glorying in the subjugation and manipulation of native people by a more technologically advanced colonial interloper. I’ve just started listening to this book and I am finding the point of view of these colonisers very unpleasant. Thank the gods I can return books on Audible. I really don’t like the idea of my money supporting authors who paint these tools of oppression as heroes.
If the author showed some sympathy towards the indigenous beings of this planet it would be much better. But no. Our heroes motto is “KTF: Kill them first”. WTF is that?!
If the author showed some sympathy towards the indigenous beings of this planet it would be much better. But no. Our heroes motto is “KTF: Kill them first”. WTF is that?!
November 3, 2017
The thing that bugged me about this book was the arrogance of the legionaires going to a planet to take it over from the indigenous race, just to take over the natural resources of the planet. Sound familiar? I didn’t feel sorry for the legionaires who lost their lives in an attempt to take something that wasn't theirs. The legionaires calling the indigenous people by durogatory nicknames--like American forces did with the Japanese in WW II--made me even less sympathetic to them.
October 19, 2017
Unfortunately I've been concentrating on my own writing recently so it took me a long time to finish this book. That is in no way a reflection on it though. I really enjoyed this read, something different to my norm. It's evident to me that the author has a military background, his understanding of tactics and camaraderie comes through in masses to anyone who has served, something I really like in a book about war (write what you know!) I will definitely continue with the series and highly recommend this read.
June 16, 2017
"The good old days ... weren't. Simple as that."
Simply superb and not a full moment from start to finish, despite the old adage that a legionnaires life is mostly ,"inactivity. Boredom. Routine." No boredom here, though, as the reader is immediately drawn into the seemingly straightforward mission to solidify a treaty with the 'friendly' locals. Instead, Victory company is attacked and the expectation is that "We're all going to die."
Seen from the perspective of Sergeant, later acting lieutenant Chhun, we are plunged into their desperate attempts to return to safety despite not only the overwhelming force of their enemies but also the actions of one of their own officers. The battling is visual and visceral, the characterisations leave the reader feeling that these are actual people known, so real do they feel, and the book simply builds with ever increasing tensions to the explosive ending, and the epilogue, a bonus short story set some years before the time of this particular Galaxy's Edge tale.
Very well written with great characters, dialogue and exciting fight scenes, this is an absolute must read for anyone who enjoys military science fiction but goes way beyond that: it is human in a way so many of this genre are not. Highly recommended
Simply superb and not a full moment from start to finish, despite the old adage that a legionnaires life is mostly ,"inactivity. Boredom. Routine." No boredom here, though, as the reader is immediately drawn into the seemingly straightforward mission to solidify a treaty with the 'friendly' locals. Instead, Victory company is attacked and the expectation is that "We're all going to die."
Seen from the perspective of Sergeant, later acting lieutenant Chhun, we are plunged into their desperate attempts to return to safety despite not only the overwhelming force of their enemies but also the actions of one of their own officers. The battling is visual and visceral, the characterisations leave the reader feeling that these are actual people known, so real do they feel, and the book simply builds with ever increasing tensions to the explosive ending, and the epilogue, a bonus short story set some years before the time of this particular Galaxy's Edge tale.
Very well written with great characters, dialogue and exciting fight scenes, this is an absolute must read for anyone who enjoys military science fiction but goes way beyond that: it is human in a way so many of this genre are not. Highly recommended
May 9, 2019
A new author to me and what appears to be a new series. This book is a well written military science fiction book. It is just the kind that I like. The story is from the first person of Sergeant C. Chhun, a Squad Leader in Victory Company, 131st Republic Legionnaires. They are paired up with a regular Republic Army unit on a joint “diplomatic” mission to Kublar village. Unfortunately, the Republic Army leadership is pretty bad, very bad. One specifically bad leader is Captain Devers, Republic Army. He is an appointee who has minimal tactical training, but a lot of political clout. That’s the way it is with these Army types, at least the officers. They have to have some kind of seemingly important military career to later excel in the political arena. They usually get a lot of soldiers killed.
As it is on this mission, the OIC is Major “Pappy” Hilbert, a grizzled veteran Legionnaire with a lot of battles behind him. He is firmly in command of the overall operation and his second in command is Lieutenant Ford, a.k.a. Wraith, not Captain Devers! Of course that doesn’t sit well with Captain Devers, but it works real well with the Legionnaires since they all want to live and get back home.
As usual, HQ said this would be a simple “diplomatic” mission to talk to the local Kublaren Chief of the Moona Village. And as usual, HQ Intel sucks. The convoy is attacked on the way in a pre-positioned ambush. Someone knew they were coming and were setup to wipe them all out; except Legionnaires don’t die easily. This battle is described very well as are the rest of the battles. There’s a lot of killing, but nothing that is really graphic, just business as usual for the Legionnaires. You’ll find out that they survive this encounter, although not without significant casualties. You’ll also find out that it’s not just the “Koobs” they are fighting, but a mix of Kimbrin and human. The human is from the Mid-Core Rebels and wasn’t expected to be anywhere near Kublar.
Ok, so I don’t want to re-write the whole story. Things get even better as you get further into the book. Well, “better” isn’t the right word if you’re a Legionnaire, but you’ll find out what I mean. There is a lot of jargon in this book that you have get used to. In particular, the Legionnaires refer to themselves as leejs which I have never heard before. This might just be something make up by the author so as not to have to type “Legionnaires” every time he wanted say something about them; makes sense to me.
As I mentioned, this appears to be the start of a new series, but it also appears the authors have written several books with the Galactic Outlaws title. I don’t know if I’m going to read that series. I believe it strays from this military science fiction genre so it’s probably not for me. I suggest you sign-up to the website and find out all the authors have to offer. They are good writers.
As it is on this mission, the OIC is Major “Pappy” Hilbert, a grizzled veteran Legionnaire with a lot of battles behind him. He is firmly in command of the overall operation and his second in command is Lieutenant Ford, a.k.a. Wraith, not Captain Devers! Of course that doesn’t sit well with Captain Devers, but it works real well with the Legionnaires since they all want to live and get back home.
As usual, HQ said this would be a simple “diplomatic” mission to talk to the local Kublaren Chief of the Moona Village. And as usual, HQ Intel sucks. The convoy is attacked on the way in a pre-positioned ambush. Someone knew they were coming and were setup to wipe them all out; except Legionnaires don’t die easily. This battle is described very well as are the rest of the battles. There’s a lot of killing, but nothing that is really graphic, just business as usual for the Legionnaires. You’ll find out that they survive this encounter, although not without significant casualties. You’ll also find out that it’s not just the “Koobs” they are fighting, but a mix of Kimbrin and human. The human is from the Mid-Core Rebels and wasn’t expected to be anywhere near Kublar.
Ok, so I don’t want to re-write the whole story. Things get even better as you get further into the book. Well, “better” isn’t the right word if you’re a Legionnaire, but you’ll find out what I mean. There is a lot of jargon in this book that you have get used to. In particular, the Legionnaires refer to themselves as leejs which I have never heard before. This might just be something make up by the author so as not to have to type “Legionnaires” every time he wanted say something about them; makes sense to me.
As I mentioned, this appears to be the start of a new series, but it also appears the authors have written several books with the Galactic Outlaws title. I don’t know if I’m going to read that series. I believe it strays from this military science fiction genre so it’s probably not for me. I suggest you sign-up to the website and find out all the authors have to offer. They are good writers.
March 16, 2019
This book is awful. I legitimately had a hard time finishing it. Every character in it is a stereotype, a moron, or both.
This is basically a brand new Army Private’s dream of what he thinks combat will be like based on what he’s read about Afghanistan and played in Call of Duty. Every time anyone does something “badass” in this book, it’s usually just a stupid decision. Officers are comically stupid in ways that don’t even make sense and the NCOs are so awesome that it’s no big deal when they do something stupid because it was “badass.” The whole Army in this book is basically filled with Privates with stripes.
That and it takes a combat deployment from 10 years ago and plops it into a sci-fi story with only the thinnest veneer of originality. The Soldiers watch the “Galactic Fighting Championship,” they interact with duplicitous alien “tribal leaders” who have tea drinking rituals, one of the units is the 101st “Screaming Raptors,” and for some reason (ie. lazy writing) the equipment and tactics for combat just happen to look exactly like a caricature of Iraq and Afghanistan despite this supposedly taking place thousands of years in the future.
It’s horrible, and might be the most unoriginal book I’ve ever read.
Stay away.
This is basically a brand new Army Private’s dream of what he thinks combat will be like based on what he’s read about Afghanistan and played in Call of Duty. Every time anyone does something “badass” in this book, it’s usually just a stupid decision. Officers are comically stupid in ways that don’t even make sense and the NCOs are so awesome that it’s no big deal when they do something stupid because it was “badass.” The whole Army in this book is basically filled with Privates with stripes.
That and it takes a combat deployment from 10 years ago and plops it into a sci-fi story with only the thinnest veneer of originality. The Soldiers watch the “Galactic Fighting Championship,” they interact with duplicitous alien “tribal leaders” who have tea drinking rituals, one of the units is the 101st “Screaming Raptors,” and for some reason (ie. lazy writing) the equipment and tactics for combat just happen to look exactly like a caricature of Iraq and Afghanistan despite this supposedly taking place thousands of years in the future.
It’s horrible, and might be the most unoriginal book I’ve ever read.
Stay away.
August 13, 2017
Wow. I haven't read a book this fast in ages! Jason and Nick have written something that reads like a battle in Afghanistan being fought now, but it's set in a futuristic world that they have based on Star Wars, but isn't. I've never read any of the Star Wars books, but this is an awesome book. It's detailed, it's got characters you WANT to see succeed, and it's got a character that you hate, and want to see die. The end is not what I expected, but it's not a total disappointment, because it fills in a detail that might not have made it in another book.
Jason and Nick have a plan to release books once a month or so, and I really hope they can keep up the pace, because if the others are like this, it's going to be a fantastic ride!
Jason and Nick have a plan to release books once a month or so, and I really hope they can keep up the pace, because if the others are like this, it's going to be a fantastic ride!
July 9, 2017
Nick Cole and Jason Anspach deliver on their promises. Reviewers describing this series as "Star Wars in Afganistan" are correct. Blaster cannons, alien landscapes, and rocket sleds aside, this is a story of courage under fire, loyalty to your fellow soldiers, and the person you want to be when death is coming for you. I blazed through the book in a couple of days. I'm ready for the next action-packed space adventure.
September 30, 2017
3 Stars
This is a decent military science fiction that has plenty of action, cool fights, and weaponry but it suffers from some pacing issues and more. I never connected with the characters or the world but liked the writing and the story nonetheless.
Decent.
This is a decent military science fiction that has plenty of action, cool fights, and weaponry but it suffers from some pacing issues and more. I never connected with the characters or the world but liked the writing and the story nonetheless.
Decent.
September 22, 2025
No a bad Military SiFi story. I think once the writer gets more comfortable with the subject it will polish up nicely. Recommended
dnf
May 15, 2021DNF @ 50%
As I said in my last update for this, it has become rather dull and repetitive. My investment in it and my interest in finding out what happens have evaporated and I certainly can’t see myself reading the other 10+ books in the series. I’ve got plenty of better sci-fi to read.
As I said in my last update for this, it has become rather dull and repetitive. My investment in it and my interest in finding out what happens have evaporated and I certainly can’t see myself reading the other 10+ books in the series. I’ve got plenty of better sci-fi to read.
August 17, 2017
Gritty, Foxhole Sci-Fi. Legionnaires on the edge of the galaxy in an unwinnable battle against superior numbers. Battle buddies, camaraderie, esprit de corps... Captures battle-weary mindset of guys who are in it to save each other - not because of some lofty goal or political outcome. A nice bonus story in the epilogue too. My only complaint... too short! So I'll pick up the next in the series.
September 13, 2018
I'd write a lengthy review, but what I'd mean to say already was so much better said here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
And here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
In short: this was disgusting and unfortunately I couldn't even return this dreck.
June 15, 2017
A real dumpster fire.
A great example of heart stopping, pulse racing military sci-fi that had me on the edge of my seat many times. There were power struggles between the separate forces which made total sense and had me gritting my teeth at the idiocy of some CO's. A great story that I would recommend for fans of this genre and sci-fi in general.
A great example of heart stopping, pulse racing military sci-fi that had me on the edge of my seat many times. There were power struggles between the separate forces which made total sense and had me gritting my teeth at the idiocy of some CO's. A great story that I would recommend for fans of this genre and sci-fi in general.
May 16, 2018
Though I stand in the minority, I'm not a huge Star Wars fan, and I knew going in to Legionnaire that the authors refer to their Galaxy's Edge series as "Star Wars, Not Star Wars." When it comes to reading spacefaring science fiction, I like things like Peter F. Hamilton's Commonwealth Saga, the Priscilla Hutchins series by Jack McDevitt, and the Expanse books by James S.A. Corey (and Dune, too...can't forget that series!). Big, sweeping, intergalactic sagas, I guess you could say. I've read a few military sci-fi books, but I prefer the former. Yet Legionnaire by Anspach and Cole grabbed my non-Star Wars loving imagination and wouldn't let go! I usually like to know what's going on in the wider scope of things, but with Legionnaire, we get just a hint of this universe, at least in this first book in the Galaxy's Edge series. And if this is just the beginning, I can't wait to see what comes next!
September 10, 2021
That was a really fun military sci-fi book. It was nothing fancy, just well executed entertainment. The character building may have been a little light but the action was fantastic. The world building was seamless and I loved that the technology felt grounded. The author (Authors? Not sure really.) did a great job building tension. The ending felt a bit abrupt but it’s a fairly minor compliant. The story itself was pretty self contained though it hinted at a broader narrative, enough to make me interested to know more.
I was looking for some popcorn sci-fi and this book delivered.
I was looking for some popcorn sci-fi and this book delivered.
June 17, 2017
A light, refreshing, fast paced military sci-fi. It is nice to sometimes read a book that is not so loaded down with futuristic technical jargon where you can just enjoy the fast paced military aspect of it. This book provided that. The story line was good and it kept my attention from beginning to end. Highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys military sci-fi.
August 9, 2017
If you space marine groundpounder view is your cup of tea, this is a definite recommendation. I'm personally more of a space fleet combat person when it comes to my military scifi; however, i can definitely appreciate this tale. 1st person view of a ranger type groundpounder struggling to survive in a distant (light years distant) land alongside the only people who matter, those next to him.
June 15, 2017
I want to be a legionnaire
This is one of those stories that takes you back to the excitement of sci-fi from your childhood. I loved it. And I can't wait for the next one!
This is one of those stories that takes you back to the excitement of sci-fi from your childhood. I loved it. And I can't wait for the next one!
February 26, 2019
Wow! A combination of Aliens, Blackhawk Down, and Fury. Really enjoyed this clustereff!
January 15, 2020
Smash face hi tech sci fi.
Ripping read. Feels like marines vs Muj. A nice metaphor and some solid descriptive writing. Pulls on the classic internal tension between grunt and privileged officer class. The worlds re built well and the tech feels solid.
Ripping read. Feels like marines vs Muj. A nice metaphor and some solid descriptive writing. Pulls on the classic internal tension between grunt and privileged officer class. The worlds re built well and the tech feels solid.
July 4, 2017
Loyalty and brotherhood to the end!
Action and excitement from beginning to end!
Well developed characters and intriguing plotlines!
I enjoyed this book and can't wait to start the next episode.
Action and excitement from beginning to end!
Well developed characters and intriguing plotlines!
I enjoyed this book and can't wait to start the next episode.
July 17, 2017
A legionnaire is a combination of a Navy Seal, a Green Beret and some Delta Force thrown in for extra toughness! Follow the exploits of a group of legionnaires with the mandate of KTF, kill them first! Death, destruction and a taste of victory make this a terrific read!
August 1, 2017
A thrilling and action-packed military sci-fi which has provided me with some much needed guidance for the genre. While slightly confusing in the beginning due to the frenetic action, it does smooth out as the book progresses, revealing a great story of brothers-in-arms as they overcome the odds.
August 15, 2017
The thing that really surprised me about this book was the gritty realism of military life. Several times, after reading the various battles, or even the infighting between the brass and the grunts, I was reminded of great war novels like Matterhorn and Junior Officers Reading Club.
And, for a work of fiction, that's an amazing comparison.
The Legionnaires may not be real, but after reading this book you will wonder if the authors are perhaps writing about their past lives.
If you enjoy military books, and you enjoy Sci Fi, you won't be able to put this down. I picked it up last night and finished it within less than 24 hours. I can think of no greater complement for a book.
And, for a work of fiction, that's an amazing comparison.
The Legionnaires may not be real, but after reading this book you will wonder if the authors are perhaps writing about their past lives.
If you enjoy military books, and you enjoy Sci Fi, you won't be able to put this down. I picked it up last night and finished it within less than 24 hours. I can think of no greater complement for a book.
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