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Terran Scout Fleet #1
Marine
2019 Dragon Award Finalist for Best Military Science Fiction or Fantasy Novel Aliens exist... and, as it turns out, most of them aren't that friendly.Jacob Brown wasn't even born yet the first time they attacked Earth.He was only fourteen the second time it happened.When Earth finally came together and fielded its first spaceborne military, Jacob didn't hesitate to volunteer. Serving aboard a mighty starship, he'd be able to defend his planet--and his family--when, inevitably, they came again.Just as he's about to graduate training, however, Jacob is approached by an officer from Naval Special Operation Command and given a volunteer for a risky mission to a dangerous, lawless world, or give up his dream of serving in the military and go home. He has no idea why he's being singled out in such an unusual manner, but now it's either agree to their demands or give up his dream of being on a starship.Soon, getting his career back on the right track will be the least of his concerns when it seems like everyone--and everything--he meets is trying to kill him. When he stumbles upon a secret most people on Earth are blissfully unaware of he realizes it's not just the aliens he needs to be worried about."Marine" is the first book in the Terran Scout Fleet Series by the bestselling author of the Omega Force Series and Black Fleet Trilogy.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
October 10, 2020
"This may not be what you think you want, but believe me, if you want to make a difference—really make a difference—you want to be in Scout Fleet," Mosler said."
Jacob Brown is the young man we follow as he is ‘railroaded” into an elite group of marines.
"Now, raise your right hand and repeat after me," (Admiral) Cornett yawned. Jacob went through his Oath of Office, feeling humiliated and cheated as he stood there alone. The universe had once again decided to shit on Jacob Brown. It just wasn't fair, damnit."
He is a product of the new United Earth.
"The cadet did as instructed, flanked on either side by the United Earth and Terranovus flags…The normal tradition for a graduating class was to fly back to Earth and hold the ceremony there so that families could be in attendance so that Fleet PR could really sell the idea of a spaceborne military to a public still having a hard time adjusting to their new reality. Instead of standing tall, resplendent in his service dress with his grandparents watching on, Jacob would be sworn in by a reluctant Admiral, into a branch he didn't really want to be in, and handed over to a commanding officer who made him extremely nervous."
The universe isn’t friendly to United Earth, a bit player among the other powers and species.
This is a conventional space navy / space opera novel. It boasts no groundbreaking imaginative feats or writing that will make your jaw drop. It does an adequate job of world building and technology description and a less than stellar job (pun intended) of describing other species and making that a focus. What it does have is: an interesting mission; almost non-stop action; and an ability to twist every expectation.
""I've been running with Obsidian for the better part of two years," MG said. "This job is mostly hours and hours of boring observation and plodding in the Corsair to one place or another and just watching the sensors ahead of a Fleet movement. On the few times we've been sent as a tactical asset to secure an objective, it's never been loaded with so many inexplicable coincidences. I can't really explain it past that. Just a gut feeling that we're either chasing the wrong thing or we're missing something significant in the big picture.""
If you are in an escapist SF mood, this might be as good for you as it was for me. 3.5*
Jacob Brown is the young man we follow as he is ‘railroaded” into an elite group of marines.
"Now, raise your right hand and repeat after me," (Admiral) Cornett yawned. Jacob went through his Oath of Office, feeling humiliated and cheated as he stood there alone. The universe had once again decided to shit on Jacob Brown. It just wasn't fair, damnit."
He is a product of the new United Earth.
"The cadet did as instructed, flanked on either side by the United Earth and Terranovus flags…The normal tradition for a graduating class was to fly back to Earth and hold the ceremony there so that families could be in attendance so that Fleet PR could really sell the idea of a spaceborne military to a public still having a hard time adjusting to their new reality. Instead of standing tall, resplendent in his service dress with his grandparents watching on, Jacob would be sworn in by a reluctant Admiral, into a branch he didn't really want to be in, and handed over to a commanding officer who made him extremely nervous."
The universe isn’t friendly to United Earth, a bit player among the other powers and species.
This is a conventional space navy / space opera novel. It boasts no groundbreaking imaginative feats or writing that will make your jaw drop. It does an adequate job of world building and technology description and a less than stellar job (pun intended) of describing other species and making that a focus. What it does have is: an interesting mission; almost non-stop action; and an ability to twist every expectation.
""I've been running with Obsidian for the better part of two years," MG said. "This job is mostly hours and hours of boring observation and plodding in the Corsair to one place or another and just watching the sensors ahead of a Fleet movement. On the few times we've been sent as a tactical asset to secure an objective, it's never been loaded with so many inexplicable coincidences. I can't really explain it past that. Just a gut feeling that we're either chasing the wrong thing or we're missing something significant in the big picture.""
If you are in an escapist SF mood, this might be as good for you as it was for me. 3.5*
August 12, 2019
I started reading “Marine,” by Joshua Dalzelle, last night after completing some required admin/maintenance duties. Maybe around 8:30, or so. , I finished it in the wee hours this morning. Could NOT put it down, and I TRIED, several times, so be warned. It could happen to YOU!
I can't give you a precise timeline, but internal evidence points to a not-too-distant future. Earth has been attacked twice by aliens, and miraculously saved each time. Now Earth is a minor player in a dangerous universe, where almost every other civilization is more powerful. With some assistance from interstellar allies, the humans are trying to build a military and trade presence. The most powerful players set limits on what technology transfer is permitted.
I'm not familiar with the other works of the author, but a SLIGHT use of my Google-fu reveals that (at least) one of his prior series, “Omega Force,” provides the background to “Marine.” However, I was struck by how well the author lays the necessary foundation without seeming to do so. The only section of the book devoted to backstory is found in the Prologue, and THAT is written in the Protagonist's voice, and it comes across as HIS backstory, not that of the series. There are a LOT of ways I've seen authors bring new readers into the middle of an existing story arc, but I've never seen one I can say is superior to this.
The protagonist is a young man, going by the name of Jacob Brown. Except for the Prologue, when we meet him he is in his early 20's, enduring the rigors of the last months of humanity's premier (only) off-planet military academy. At the precise moment of introduction, he is crawling in the weeds on a recon mission; we later discover it's a field problem set for the assessment of the ability of cadets to lead small units. And it is the course of this exercise that we are SHOWN, and not told, a key bit of information about Jacob Brown:
It's so casually done, that I read right past it at first. Then the tickle in the back of the brain:
“wait... 30 feet...that's the height of a three-story building... “
And it is PRECISELY with that casual, throw-away reference, that the author lets us know that there is Something About Jacob.
He also doesn't leave irritating character defects ignored, until you wind up hating the people you are not supposed to hate. I grimace while reading about a character who just can't get over...whatever. While I have never used the therapeutic technique of punching someone in the face as a means of helping them become more mature, I rejoice that the author both SEES that persistent whining is an issue, and that he USES the skill-sets appropriate for the setting. I speak theoretically, of course.
There IS quite a bit of familiar territory covered here: young man making his own way, coerced to do something he doesn't want to do out of loyalty, must earn respect of comrades, overcome impossible odds, discover Injun Joe's buried treasure in a cave, slay the dragon, and close with persecutor rolling ball-bearings in hand while mumbling about strawberries. See? That's EASY! Anybody can do THAT, right?
Wrong. Any cook (or anyone with a fork) will tell you that there is a huge difference between the recipe and the cake. Dalzelle has taken the basics, treated them with all the respect they deserved, and served up something that is a delight for anyone who loves military science fiction.
I can't give you a precise timeline, but internal evidence points to a not-too-distant future. Earth has been attacked twice by aliens, and miraculously saved each time. Now Earth is a minor player in a dangerous universe, where almost every other civilization is more powerful. With some assistance from interstellar allies, the humans are trying to build a military and trade presence. The most powerful players set limits on what technology transfer is permitted.
I'm not familiar with the other works of the author, but a SLIGHT use of my Google-fu reveals that (at least) one of his prior series, “Omega Force,” provides the background to “Marine.” However, I was struck by how well the author lays the necessary foundation without seeming to do so. The only section of the book devoted to backstory is found in the Prologue, and THAT is written in the Protagonist's voice, and it comes across as HIS backstory, not that of the series. There are a LOT of ways I've seen authors bring new readers into the middle of an existing story arc, but I've never seen one I can say is superior to this.
The protagonist is a young man, going by the name of Jacob Brown. Except for the Prologue, when we meet him he is in his early 20's, enduring the rigors of the last months of humanity's premier (only) off-planet military academy. At the precise moment of introduction, he is crawling in the weeds on a recon mission; we later discover it's a field problem set for the assessment of the ability of cadets to lead small units. And it is the course of this exercise that we are SHOWN, and not told, a key bit of information about Jacob Brown:
“Satisfied with his preparations, Jacob stepped off the edge of the outcropping and dropped thirty feet to a ledge below.” (Dalzelle, Joshua. Marine (Terran Scout Fleet Book 1) (p. 9). Kindle Edition. )
It's so casually done, that I read right past it at first. Then the tickle in the back of the brain:
“wait... 30 feet...that's the height of a three-story building... “
And it is PRECISELY with that casual, throw-away reference, that the author lets us know that there is Something About Jacob.
He also doesn't leave irritating character defects ignored, until you wind up hating the people you are not supposed to hate. I grimace while reading about a character who just can't get over...whatever. While I have never used the therapeutic technique of punching someone in the face as a means of helping them become more mature, I rejoice that the author both SEES that persistent whining is an issue, and that he USES the skill-sets appropriate for the setting. I speak theoretically, of course.
There IS quite a bit of familiar territory covered here: young man making his own way, coerced to do something he doesn't want to do out of loyalty, must earn respect of comrades, overcome impossible odds, discover Injun Joe's buried treasure in a cave, slay the dragon, and close with persecutor rolling ball-bearings in hand while mumbling about strawberries. See? That's EASY! Anybody can do THAT, right?
Wrong. Any cook (or anyone with a fork) will tell you that there is a huge difference between the recipe and the cake. Dalzelle has taken the basics, treated them with all the respect they deserved, and served up something that is a delight for anyone who loves military science fiction.
February 10, 2020
I need to qualify this, I came to Joshua Dalzelle through "The Black Fleet Trilogy" and not "Omega Force". When I saw a "new" trilogy I was ready to dive in. This is new but it takes place firmly in the "Omega Force" universe. Having not read this series I felt like I was missing half the story. There is background and history that are not divulged in this book and it left me scrambling.
I like the overall story and the primary characters are interesting. Dalzelle tells a good tale and keeps his characters largely realistic. This particular edition was rife with editing misses. Misused and double words abound. Good but not great. I think I'll finally dive into "Omega Force" before I tackle the next book. I will definitely be reading both.
Update Feb 2020 -
I have read all of Omega Force so far (11 books) and then decided to give this another chance. I raised my rating to three and three quarter stars. That is mostly on the improved editing. I still can't give four stars to a book that relies so heavily on a whole different series to give it context. It certainly made a great deal more sense, but there just isn't enough meat for it to stand on it's own.
I like the overall story and the primary characters are interesting. Dalzelle tells a good tale and keeps his characters largely realistic. This particular edition was rife with editing misses. Misused and double words abound. Good but not great. I think I'll finally dive into "Omega Force" before I tackle the next book. I will definitely be reading both.
Update Feb 2020 -
I have read all of Omega Force so far (11 books) and then decided to give this another chance. I raised my rating to three and three quarter stars. That is mostly on the improved editing. I still can't give four stars to a book that relies so heavily on a whole different series to give it context. It certainly made a great deal more sense, but there just isn't enough meat for it to stand on it's own.
March 26, 2022
Many books about the military start with a young recruit who has a lot to learn before the end of the book. Jacob Brown is certainly that. He’s also really enduringly stupid, spoiled, unmotivated, and did I mention, really dumb. On the bright side, he’s got some screwy DNA that makes him superhuman which goes a long way to protecting him from his own stupidity.
If it was just Brown who was so dumb, the book might have survived it. But it turns out the whole military is just as dumb. For example, Brown is graduated early from military school where he did just well enough to keep from getting kicked out. He’s commissioned as a lieutenant in the marines (something he didn’t train for and doesn’t want to do) and sent on a covert, intelligence gathering mission for which he has been given absolutely no training. Then, thanks to an assassination, he ends up in charge of said mission where the stakes are extraordinary. In theory, these elements could have produced a great story, but it frankly didn’t work for me.
This book is the first in a spinoff series from Dalzelle’s Omega’s Force. I haven’t read that series, but the hero of this one is the son of the hero of that one. Perhaps it would have helped to be familiar with those books before trying this one.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
If it was just Brown who was so dumb, the book might have survived it. But it turns out the whole military is just as dumb. For example, Brown is graduated early from military school where he did just well enough to keep from getting kicked out. He’s commissioned as a lieutenant in the marines (something he didn’t train for and doesn’t want to do) and sent on a covert, intelligence gathering mission for which he has been given absolutely no training. Then, thanks to an assassination, he ends up in charge of said mission where the stakes are extraordinary. In theory, these elements could have produced a great story, but it frankly didn’t work for me.
This book is the first in a spinoff series from Dalzelle’s Omega’s Force. I haven’t read that series, but the hero of this one is the son of the hero of that one. Perhaps it would have helped to be familiar with those books before trying this one.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
September 14, 2022
DO NOT READ THIS BOOK OR SERIES IF YOU HAVE NOT READ OMEGA FORCE!!!!!!! (More on that after my review)
This is a great start to a good series. This is more of my review on the entire series as of book 4. I'd highly recommend it, If you like the Omega Force series, this is a no brainer and probably mandatory as the author is mixing the stoylines and not telling the readers. There are some things you'll just be lost on in both series' if you skip one or the other.
The good: Its a great off-shoot of the OF series and is very similar. I thinkk most SciFi fans will love it. The audio versions are very good as well. That can be hit or miss but I really like this narrator.
The bad:
- The author was in the Air Force during the same period I was (for a shorter time) and I don't know where he got the idea that military members spend every minute wondering if every action will land them in prison. JD does this in both of his universes for virtually every military member that has a view point. Every decision, or bad luck situation, is a reason for a military member to fear being charged with something and locked up, sometimes for minute things that make no sense. JD has to get away from that, as it's often enough that it's distracting now.
- Flick. JD, please stop it with the word "flick"...please. He uses it constantly, and often when it should be "flipped". This is another one he does in both of his universes, though much worse in this one. I would not be surprised if I had the e-book rather than audio to find that the work "flick" or some variation is used several hundred times in these short books. Again, it's enough to take you out of the story for a brief moment.
In the end, this is a great series that is more light hearted but still has high stakes. Highly recommend it.
****************************
THE MARINE AND THE TERRAN SCOUT FLEET ARE IN THE SAME UNIVERSE AS OMEGA FORCE AND WILL SPOIL THAT SERIES!!!
About half way through this book for the first time, I realized the entire book up to that point was largely relaying events in Omega Force. I immediately stopped, but there are some very huge story lines in Omega force that I already know the outcome of and it really put a dent in that series for me. I'm going onto Omega Force book 9 and I know I still have at least 3 major story lines coming up that are already spoiled for me.
The Marine really really should have an indication that it follows a whole other series with multiple book major spoilers in it.
This is a great start to a good series. This is more of my review on the entire series as of book 4. I'd highly recommend it, If you like the Omega Force series, this is a no brainer and probably mandatory as the author is mixing the stoylines and not telling the readers. There are some things you'll just be lost on in both series' if you skip one or the other.
The good: Its a great off-shoot of the OF series and is very similar. I thinkk most SciFi fans will love it. The audio versions are very good as well. That can be hit or miss but I really like this narrator.
The bad:
- The author was in the Air Force during the same period I was (for a shorter time) and I don't know where he got the idea that military members spend every minute wondering if every action will land them in prison. JD does this in both of his universes for virtually every military member that has a view point. Every decision, or bad luck situation, is a reason for a military member to fear being charged with something and locked up, sometimes for minute things that make no sense. JD has to get away from that, as it's often enough that it's distracting now.
- Flick. JD, please stop it with the word "flick"...please. He uses it constantly, and often when it should be "flipped". This is another one he does in both of his universes, though much worse in this one. I would not be surprised if I had the e-book rather than audio to find that the work "flick" or some variation is used several hundred times in these short books. Again, it's enough to take you out of the story for a brief moment.
In the end, this is a great series that is more light hearted but still has high stakes. Highly recommend it.
****************************
THE MARINE AND THE TERRAN SCOUT FLEET ARE IN THE SAME UNIVERSE AS OMEGA FORCE AND WILL SPOIL THAT SERIES!!!
About half way through this book for the first time, I realized the entire book up to that point was largely relaying events in Omega Force. I immediately stopped, but there are some very huge story lines in Omega force that I already know the outcome of and it really put a dent in that series for me. I'm going onto Omega Force book 9 and I know I still have at least 3 major story lines coming up that are already spoiled for me.
The Marine really really should have an indication that it follows a whole other series with multiple book major spoilers in it.
January 2, 2019
I haven't read Dalzelle before so his world and characters were new to me. There is a lot of background stuff covered in this novel, but it's done well and I didn't feel overwhelmed. The character and the situations are interesting and there's a lot of action, so the momentum is there.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
July 16, 2022
The good
- Some interesting characters, including characters from alien races.
- Fund new world with interesting factions and technologies.
- Fun action sequences.
The not so good
- It's a fairly generic, and therefore forgettable, sci fi action book. It's well written, but nothing really stands out or is particularly unique, so it's entertaining while you read it, but then quickly fades from memory.
- Some interesting characters, including characters from alien races.
- Fund new world with interesting factions and technologies.
- Fun action sequences.
The not so good
- It's a fairly generic, and therefore forgettable, sci fi action book. It's well written, but nothing really stands out or is particularly unique, so it's entertaining while you read it, but then quickly fades from memory.
January 17, 2019
Now this is my kind of book. It starts from the beginning and takes a young man through his military training up to becoming a somewhat capable operative. And it ties into the Omega Force series which was very, very good. In that series, a guy name Jason Burke, became a rouge operator with a mixed team of aliens. They set out to do good for the galactic community although their idea of good wasn’t always the majority opinion. Read that series if you want a good story. It’s out to ten books now, so you have a lot of reading to do.
Back to this book, our main character is Jacob Brown. He’s a young man who grew up with his Grandparents on Earth before the first aliens appeared. Those aliens made some demands about wanting a single human named Jason Burke, which Earth had no idea who or how to get him. Still, Jason Burke had been to Earth at least a few times and enough times that he had a son, yes, Jacob Brown. Since the name Burke was not one well accepted by humans, Jacob has his name changed to Brown. He also listened to too many stories painting his Dad as some kind of villain wanted by all Earth Forces. Due to a government cover-up, his Dad was actually far from a villain and probable the greatest spacefaring asset Earth had, but certainly not to Jacob.
So as soon as he could, young Jacob enlisted in the United Earth Armed Services (UEAS) with intentions on becoming a Naval Officer. He dreamed of commanding a huge starship as it sailed through space. He surprisingly did very well on the battery of test he had to take and was soon approached with an offer to attend the Academy on Terranovus. It looked like his dreams were about to come true, eventually.
At the Academy he did well with a few exceptions. He seemed to be borderline in character while doing well in academics and exceedingly well with the physical aspects of his training. In fact, he eventually came to the attention of the Naval Special Operations Command (NAVSOC) and one Captain Webb. As an offspring of his interesting Father, Jacob had inherited a number of improved genes which allowed him to do a number of things normal humans could not do. Jacobs Dad, Jason Burke, had been genetically altered in a good way by the physician on his Omega Force Team. Those augmentations often kept Jason Burke alive and now they were passed down to his son. Jacob was told by his Grandparents that this might happen and was also told that he shouldn’t use his special talents except in extraordinary circumstances. Yet, he had done things while in training at the Academy which, unknown to him, were video recorded. So, Captain Webb wanted Jacob’s talents for the NAVSOC.
The only condition with this immediate promotion to Lieutenant and reassignment was that Jacob had to agree to go into the Marine Corps! Since they wanted him to be an operative in the field, he couldn’t do that as a Naval Officer. They did tell him that eventually he could go back to the Navy and some day stand watch on a starship bridge just like he dreamed of, but now the Nave needed him for something else.
This leads to the rest of the story where young Lieutenant Jacob Brown is thrown into a highly classified mission under the leadership of Lieutenant Commander Ezra Mosler, a highly experienced Black Ops team leader. Now it begins only not in the way expected. While Jacob is made second in command of the team, something happens which forces him to step-up in a big way!
A very good story with a lot of twist that I really didn’t see until they happened. I think this series will turn out to be just as good as Omega Force, or at least I hope so.
Back to this book, our main character is Jacob Brown. He’s a young man who grew up with his Grandparents on Earth before the first aliens appeared. Those aliens made some demands about wanting a single human named Jason Burke, which Earth had no idea who or how to get him. Still, Jason Burke had been to Earth at least a few times and enough times that he had a son, yes, Jacob Brown. Since the name Burke was not one well accepted by humans, Jacob has his name changed to Brown. He also listened to too many stories painting his Dad as some kind of villain wanted by all Earth Forces. Due to a government cover-up, his Dad was actually far from a villain and probable the greatest spacefaring asset Earth had, but certainly not to Jacob.
So as soon as he could, young Jacob enlisted in the United Earth Armed Services (UEAS) with intentions on becoming a Naval Officer. He dreamed of commanding a huge starship as it sailed through space. He surprisingly did very well on the battery of test he had to take and was soon approached with an offer to attend the Academy on Terranovus. It looked like his dreams were about to come true, eventually.
At the Academy he did well with a few exceptions. He seemed to be borderline in character while doing well in academics and exceedingly well with the physical aspects of his training. In fact, he eventually came to the attention of the Naval Special Operations Command (NAVSOC) and one Captain Webb. As an offspring of his interesting Father, Jacob had inherited a number of improved genes which allowed him to do a number of things normal humans could not do. Jacobs Dad, Jason Burke, had been genetically altered in a good way by the physician on his Omega Force Team. Those augmentations often kept Jason Burke alive and now they were passed down to his son. Jacob was told by his Grandparents that this might happen and was also told that he shouldn’t use his special talents except in extraordinary circumstances. Yet, he had done things while in training at the Academy which, unknown to him, were video recorded. So, Captain Webb wanted Jacob’s talents for the NAVSOC.
The only condition with this immediate promotion to Lieutenant and reassignment was that Jacob had to agree to go into the Marine Corps! Since they wanted him to be an operative in the field, he couldn’t do that as a Naval Officer. They did tell him that eventually he could go back to the Navy and some day stand watch on a starship bridge just like he dreamed of, but now the Nave needed him for something else.
This leads to the rest of the story where young Lieutenant Jacob Brown is thrown into a highly classified mission under the leadership of Lieutenant Commander Ezra Mosler, a highly experienced Black Ops team leader. Now it begins only not in the way expected. While Jacob is made second in command of the team, something happens which forces him to step-up in a big way!
A very good story with a lot of twist that I really didn’t see until they happened. I think this series will turn out to be just as good as Omega Force, or at least I hope so.
December 20, 2019
Unfortunately I was unable to get into this. Usually I love scifi but I found it quite boring despite it starting off interesting.
March 26, 2026
Cadet Jacob Brown wanted to be an officer on the bridge of a capital starship. Instead, he was summoned by Admiral Cornett, the superintendent of the Academy, to a meeting that included a captain in the Marine Corps and a civilian. There had been a problem with an exercise. Clearly the Admiral wants to drum him out of the program. Concluding the meeting, the admiral said with a "half-smirk," I'm not sending you home, Cadet Brown, but don't think it's because I wouldn't like to. I resent people like you taking up spots that could be given to quality candidates who actually want to be here. But it's not up to me ... apparently. In fact, you could say you're getting an early graduation." His graduation was predicated upon accepting a commission in the United Earth Marine Corps, not the navy.
Brown's hope of serving on a starship were dashed when he was turned over to Marine Captain Marcus Webb, the man in charge of the black ops of the fleet, Naval Special Operations Command (NAVSOC). Brown was bewildered. Why did the Admiral seem to be so angry--Brown's accumulation of petty violations, there need to be more to this he thought. But why? Not a dismissal if his acts were considered egregious? Why an early graduation and why the Marine Corps? What does NAVSOC have to do with this?
His life changed. He was slated to join the Terran Scout Fleet, but why.
This is the first book in the series. I have already bought the second in the series and look forward to the next adventure and his "special" qualities and tangled relationships. I enjoyed the book, Jacob is nicely drawn, not a cardboard cutout major character. The storyline is brisk, the action sequences well sequenced, the writing crisp and not overly freighted with scientific explanation. I liked the book, an enjoyable read.
Brown's hope of serving on a starship were dashed when he was turned over to Marine Captain Marcus Webb, the man in charge of the black ops of the fleet, Naval Special Operations Command (NAVSOC). Brown was bewildered. Why did the Admiral seem to be so angry--Brown's accumulation of petty violations, there need to be more to this he thought. But why? Not a dismissal if his acts were considered egregious? Why an early graduation and why the Marine Corps? What does NAVSOC have to do with this?
His life changed. He was slated to join the Terran Scout Fleet, but why.
This is the first book in the series. I have already bought the second in the series and look forward to the next adventure and his "special" qualities and tangled relationships. I enjoyed the book, Jacob is nicely drawn, not a cardboard cutout major character. The storyline is brisk, the action sequences well sequenced, the writing crisp and not overly freighted with scientific explanation. I liked the book, an enjoyable read.
April 29, 2024
So I didn’t read the other books by Dalzelle and came in fresh to the universe as this was recommended by kindle unlimited. It might affect my views overall but I think not.
First thing is the bacgound. It’s good. It’s clearly a well thought out universe with a coherent background story and there is good depth there. Some it is a bit simplistic in terms of good guys and bad guys but fine. It’s sci-fi.
Second is the plot. Yeah again it’s pretty good. There’s good coherent storyline, nice twists, the hero can’t just superpower himself out of trouble and needs to think. The only thing I’d say is: he’s almost too stupid and too prone to walk into a trap and chance his way out of it.
Last but not least is the characters. Okay this is where this novel fails. Badly. I have no idea what any of the crew looks like. Murph is black and six foot something. No ideas about anyone else. They are all bland and generic. Even the hero (Jacob - with his father being called Jason I wonder if the writer ran out of letters) is not described anywhere. He could be a 4ft2 albino gnome or a 7ft5 Māori for all I know. They’re all marines and poke fun at each other all the time - yawn. Beyond that - do any of them have any personality? No idea.
So 3 stars because it’s fun. But it could be so much more if the writer bothered.
First thing is the bacgound. It’s good. It’s clearly a well thought out universe with a coherent background story and there is good depth there. Some it is a bit simplistic in terms of good guys and bad guys but fine. It’s sci-fi.
Second is the plot. Yeah again it’s pretty good. There’s good coherent storyline, nice twists, the hero can’t just superpower himself out of trouble and needs to think. The only thing I’d say is: he’s almost too stupid and too prone to walk into a trap and chance his way out of it.
Last but not least is the characters. Okay this is where this novel fails. Badly. I have no idea what any of the crew looks like. Murph is black and six foot something. No ideas about anyone else. They are all bland and generic. Even the hero (Jacob - with his father being called Jason I wonder if the writer ran out of letters) is not described anywhere. He could be a 4ft2 albino gnome or a 7ft5 Māori for all I know. They’re all marines and poke fun at each other all the time - yawn. Beyond that - do any of them have any personality? No idea.
So 3 stars because it’s fun. But it could be so much more if the writer bothered.
August 11, 2019
Truly exciting!!!!!
So i've gone through the entire Omega force series and damn was that was an epic experience. After book 8-9 and finally hitting 10 i was like what happened to Jason's son and now you're in it for the win because the legacy continues with his son trying to find his niche in this new brave world. Although exciting that you get to see what this legacy brings. It's Truly remarkable a work of art because this is exactly what this series needs to be. I won't exactly comment an add spoilers but if You haven't already bought or over heard the audio books over on youtube or even bought the audio after or while reading... I advice you to get the entire omega series and then follow up with this New expanse. Trust me you will not be disappointed. I give this a solid 5/5 not because im a fan but damn I just enjoyed each and every book and now to finally get another take and learn how bad ass the great Jason Burke's son will become as the story and plot evolves. I can't wait and more than likely i'll definitely wait until this series has a good 4-5 books before i read because i need to binge read it haha not to mention i need the omega force universe to pop out some new Books too <3
So i've gone through the entire Omega force series and damn was that was an epic experience. After book 8-9 and finally hitting 10 i was like what happened to Jason's son and now you're in it for the win because the legacy continues with his son trying to find his niche in this new brave world. Although exciting that you get to see what this legacy brings. It's Truly remarkable a work of art because this is exactly what this series needs to be. I won't exactly comment an add spoilers but if You haven't already bought or over heard the audio books over on youtube or even bought the audio after or while reading... I advice you to get the entire omega series and then follow up with this New expanse. Trust me you will not be disappointed. I give this a solid 5/5 not because im a fan but damn I just enjoyed each and every book and now to finally get another take and learn how bad ass the great Jason Burke's son will become as the story and plot evolves. I can't wait and more than likely i'll definitely wait until this series has a good 4-5 books before i read because i need to binge read it haha not to mention i need the omega force universe to pop out some new Books too <3
April 17, 2023
Child abandonment is never a good look for either traitors or heroes. Jacob has to deal with the emotions and resentment that come with it, but the chip on his shoulder will serve him well in future endeavours. His stubbornness and unwavering determination to be his own man will drive him forward relentlessly. With his inherent genes, will he be able to make a difference to the people around him and his own life?
I have not read any of the other books in this series, so I am not sure whether I am at a disadvantage here or not. However, since this is the first book in the series, it shouldn't make any difference, and it didn't.
I know the military sci-fi genre has been beaten to within an inch of its life, flogged like a dead horse, like a broken record, but this book didn't feel like that. It felt different somehow.
I enjoyed it. It had an excellent story, a good old-fashioned page-turner, good characters, and the main character, I thought, was well-rounded. The plot twists and turns in a few places, and the betrayals and backstabbings were good and intriguing. The pacing was consistent throughout and kept me engaged.
So, overall, a quick and worthwhile entertaining read.
I have not read any of the other books in this series, so I am not sure whether I am at a disadvantage here or not. However, since this is the first book in the series, it shouldn't make any difference, and it didn't.
I know the military sci-fi genre has been beaten to within an inch of its life, flogged like a dead horse, like a broken record, but this book didn't feel like that. It felt different somehow.
I enjoyed it. It had an excellent story, a good old-fashioned page-turner, good characters, and the main character, I thought, was well-rounded. The plot twists and turns in a few places, and the betrayals and backstabbings were good and intriguing. The pacing was consistent throughout and kept me engaged.
So, overall, a quick and worthwhile entertaining read.
May 18, 2019
The book is in the same universe as the "Omega Force" series and events in that series are mentioned, but this is a completely new story which stands on its own. I haven't read any other books by this author and this book was enjoyable enough I read it in one sitting.
The protagonist of MARINE, “Jacob Brown,” at first seems an ordinary cadet enrolled in the Naval Academy. In the first of many reveals, Jacob has a secret.
His special ancestry and gifts lead to his (coerced) recruitment into Scout Fleet, the Force Recon of the space age. Combination Spec Ops and espionage force, Scout Fleet keeps tabs on what goes on “out there” in the alien-controlled areas of the galaxy to prevent Earth from being caught by surprise by another alien attack.
Jacob didn’t want this. He wanted to command a spaceship, not be a grunt carrying a rifle. He didn’t sign up to be a spy, either. Of course, as the plot unfolds, both vocations grow on him.
Scout Fleet assigns Jacob to a critical mission before he can start training. The mission is to retrieve an alien spy from a far-away planet deep in hostile space. With Jacob are the pilot, the ship’s engineer, two grunt Marines and his mentor, a mysterious man named Mosler. Not everyone on the team is who they seem to be. Surprise.
The protagonist of MARINE, “Jacob Brown,” at first seems an ordinary cadet enrolled in the Naval Academy. In the first of many reveals, Jacob has a secret.
His special ancestry and gifts lead to his (coerced) recruitment into Scout Fleet, the Force Recon of the space age. Combination Spec Ops and espionage force, Scout Fleet keeps tabs on what goes on “out there” in the alien-controlled areas of the galaxy to prevent Earth from being caught by surprise by another alien attack.
Jacob didn’t want this. He wanted to command a spaceship, not be a grunt carrying a rifle. He didn’t sign up to be a spy, either. Of course, as the plot unfolds, both vocations grow on him.
Scout Fleet assigns Jacob to a critical mission before he can start training. The mission is to retrieve an alien spy from a far-away planet deep in hostile space. With Jacob are the pilot, the ship’s engineer, two grunt Marines and his mentor, a mysterious man named Mosler. Not everyone on the team is who they seem to be. Surprise.
September 27, 2019
Jacob Brown (Burke) - WOW!!
Great first novel in an Omega Force spin off series. This one is more of a military sci fi. A junior officer is inexplicably placed in charge of a forward scout team. Events unfold that place this small team squarely in the center of potentially Earth changing events. Of course, this book did the job of mainly setting the stage, so we only saw hints of a much larger story. I missed much of the humor that makes Omega Force great. But, as already mentioned, this book had a much stronger military bend. I'm very interested to see where this story goes and actually can't wait for Team Obsidian to meet Omega Force. That will certainly cause a shock wave that will rock the quadrant. Keep the books coming!
Even though this is a first book, it alludes strongly to events from the OF series. As I am very familiar with that series (it's one of my all-time favorites), I am unsure if someone could realistically pick this book up and completely understand the back story. Just a thought.
Great first novel in an Omega Force spin off series. This one is more of a military sci fi. A junior officer is inexplicably placed in charge of a forward scout team. Events unfold that place this small team squarely in the center of potentially Earth changing events. Of course, this book did the job of mainly setting the stage, so we only saw hints of a much larger story. I missed much of the humor that makes Omega Force great. But, as already mentioned, this book had a much stronger military bend. I'm very interested to see where this story goes and actually can't wait for Team Obsidian to meet Omega Force. That will certainly cause a shock wave that will rock the quadrant. Keep the books coming!
Even though this is a first book, it alludes strongly to events from the OF series. As I am very familiar with that series (it's one of my all-time favorites), I am unsure if someone could realistically pick this book up and completely understand the back story. Just a thought.
May 10, 2020
I was just looking for a mindless read; something to entertain me with no consideration of learning anything or exploring a political view. So, I picked up the Science Fiction “Marine” – partly because it was inexpensive and also because, as the first in a series, “Terran Scout Fleet”, I thought might lead to subsequent reads. Unfortunately, it was just average (barely).
It's an a special ops team (SEAL Team-like) which invariably fight space aliens. It’s just a (poor) military novel that takes place in space, e.g. delete airplane, insert space ship, delete rifle, insert laser, delete enemy soldier, insert enemy alien, etc. The main character, Jacob Brown, is somewhat interesting because of his ‘special skills’. (Is he an alien?) Actually, I probably would have liked reading about his mysterious father – and later found out that this is from the series “Omega Force”. Still, it is not particularly well written and I don’t think I will be reading other books by this author.
It's an a special ops team (SEAL Team-like) which invariably fight space aliens. It’s just a (poor) military novel that takes place in space, e.g. delete airplane, insert space ship, delete rifle, insert laser, delete enemy soldier, insert enemy alien, etc. The main character, Jacob Brown, is somewhat interesting because of his ‘special skills’. (Is he an alien?) Actually, I probably would have liked reading about his mysterious father – and later found out that this is from the series “Omega Force”. Still, it is not particularly well written and I don’t think I will be reading other books by this author.
August 22, 2022
This is my first book by this author.
I was excited to read this for some interesting military sci-fi action, but the book doesn't head in that direction. I was also hoping for hard basic training, then SERE and all the rest.
None of that happens. Jacob is in naval training, and has been for five (!) years. What they're doing there, I have no idea because the books starts with Jacob getting the chance to join the space marines.
He takes it, but it's not what he wants. He specifically joins the scout force, which works in areas the navy doesn't go to pick up intel and see what the other spacefaring races are doing.
There is a subplot about Jacob's father from an earlier series, but I didn't read it.
The story really revolves around Jacob (now at a second LT) who is leading a small team to pick up an alien. Things go wrong, and because of reasons I won't go into the team doesn't trust very well. This is along the lines of small unit tactics more than big marine actions.
Still, I enjoyed it. The editing is only fair, and the story is rushed at time and not enough is explained at the beginning. Why is a new second LT leading a mission? There are answers, but none are very good IMO.
Still, a decent book. 4/5*
I was excited to read this for some interesting military sci-fi action, but the book doesn't head in that direction. I was also hoping for hard basic training, then SERE and all the rest.
None of that happens. Jacob is in naval training, and has been for five (!) years. What they're doing there, I have no idea because the books starts with Jacob getting the chance to join the space marines.
He takes it, but it's not what he wants. He specifically joins the scout force, which works in areas the navy doesn't go to pick up intel and see what the other spacefaring races are doing.
There is a subplot about Jacob's father from an earlier series, but I didn't read it.
The story really revolves around Jacob (now at a second LT) who is leading a small team to pick up an alien. Things go wrong, and because of reasons I won't go into the team doesn't trust very well. This is along the lines of small unit tactics more than big marine actions.
Still, I enjoyed it. The editing is only fair, and the story is rushed at time and not enough is explained at the beginning. Why is a new second LT leading a mission? There are answers, but none are very good IMO.
Still, a decent book. 4/5*
January 17, 2021
I keep thinking I am missing something ... something like 'this is a book for teenagers!'
I gather 'Marine' is the first in a series that follows on from another one, it begs the question 'what the hell was Joshua Dalzelle thinking?'
Jacob Brown is a late teen with 'superhuman' strength and speed. He's also emotionally and intellectually stunted, though I assume the author didn't see it that way.
His father, Jason Burke, is a villain to most and hero to some - Jacob, at least at the start, despises him - for no good reason as far as I could figure out because he has never explored it.
I got 50 pages in before I first thought that life was too short for a book like this. But no, masochism set in, surely it would get better ...?
Another 30 pages and it became tragically clear that it would not.
This is not Space Opera, this is Space Disaster!
I wanted 'Marine' to be good, unfortunately it isn't.
I gather 'Marine' is the first in a series that follows on from another one, it begs the question 'what the hell was Joshua Dalzelle thinking?'
Jacob Brown is a late teen with 'superhuman' strength and speed. He's also emotionally and intellectually stunted, though I assume the author didn't see it that way.
His father, Jason Burke, is a villain to most and hero to some - Jacob, at least at the start, despises him - for no good reason as far as I could figure out because he has never explored it.
I got 50 pages in before I first thought that life was too short for a book like this. But no, masochism set in, surely it would get better ...?
Another 30 pages and it became tragically clear that it would not.
This is not Space Opera, this is Space Disaster!
I wanted 'Marine' to be good, unfortunately it isn't.
January 22, 2021
Worth reading
I am a big fan of this series, along with the related 'Omega Force' series. The author will spur your imagination with these stories.
In fact, the 'Omega Force' series should be read 1st to make sense of many of the references mentioned in this book. The series is aimed at younger people, but I enjoyed it at my 70 years of age. It is worth adding to your reading library during this stay at home pandemic period if you are into Science Fiction Space adventures.
I originally started listening to the audio format of the Omega Force series several years ago while spending hours and days driving across the USA for my job. These books really made the miles disappear.
These books have helped me pass many enjoyable hours during this pandemic. In fact I have also been rereading previous volumes of the series from years ago while spending time at home.
A worthwhile addition to your library.
I am a big fan of this series, along with the related 'Omega Force' series. The author will spur your imagination with these stories.
In fact, the 'Omega Force' series should be read 1st to make sense of many of the references mentioned in this book. The series is aimed at younger people, but I enjoyed it at my 70 years of age. It is worth adding to your reading library during this stay at home pandemic period if you are into Science Fiction Space adventures.
I originally started listening to the audio format of the Omega Force series several years ago while spending hours and days driving across the USA for my job. These books really made the miles disappear.
These books have helped me pass many enjoyable hours during this pandemic. In fact I have also been rereading previous volumes of the series from years ago while spending time at home.
A worthwhile addition to your library.
October 9, 2025
Fun, but that ending...
I was enjoying this more than omega force, it was much more mil-sci-fi which was what I was going for when I picked it up - then just a little ways in I realized it was a spin off because of the constant references to another character. So I'm reading that series, omega force. It's fun but not the military sci-fi I was hoping for. This mostly was, but the ending kind of soured me on it. I think that omega force is a good series and the rest of this one probably is too, but I'm a week and a half into these books and I'm not really getting the military sci-fi I keep hoping for so I think I'm cutting my losses here, to no fault of the author's. If you like small crews with quirky group dynamics and chaotic action then at least omega force is up your alley, and based on my impressions of this book you'll probably find much the same with a dash more military sci-fi.
I was enjoying this more than omega force, it was much more mil-sci-fi which was what I was going for when I picked it up - then just a little ways in I realized it was a spin off because of the constant references to another character. So I'm reading that series, omega force. It's fun but not the military sci-fi I was hoping for. This mostly was, but the ending kind of soured me on it. I think that omega force is a good series and the rest of this one probably is too, but I'm a week and a half into these books and I'm not really getting the military sci-fi I keep hoping for so I think I'm cutting my losses here, to no fault of the author's. If you like small crews with quirky group dynamics and chaotic action then at least omega force is up your alley, and based on my impressions of this book you'll probably find much the same with a dash more military sci-fi.
January 2, 2019
Another; Absolutely Brilliant Science Fiction Adventure Series BEGINS!
This is DEFINITELY NOT Omega Force, Version 2.0/ Part 11 -21..!
Marine Is a Stand Alone Series, That takes place In the Same universe,
But, No worries Joshua Dazelle fans of Omega Force; The Author let's readers know, " It's a BIG UNIVERSE & the chances of them meeting 1 Day are Unlikely! "
However,
By the 6th Chapter, (Around the same time you're fully immersed in the book) Suddenly, the surprise appearance of 3 of the most dangerous, deadly creatures ever created, the purpose of their appearance, & The mysterious gift they have for the butter Bar Lieutenant, made me remember the reason i never missed one book in the Omega Force series..
Peter Anthony Roland
Miami Beach Florida
January 1 2019
Happy New Year to all my Fellow Sci Sci-Fi Lovers
This is DEFINITELY NOT Omega Force, Version 2.0/ Part 11 -21..!
Marine Is a Stand Alone Series, That takes place In the Same universe,
But, No worries Joshua Dazelle fans of Omega Force; The Author let's readers know, " It's a BIG UNIVERSE & the chances of them meeting 1 Day are Unlikely! "
However,
By the 6th Chapter, (Around the same time you're fully immersed in the book) Suddenly, the surprise appearance of 3 of the most dangerous, deadly creatures ever created, the purpose of their appearance, & The mysterious gift they have for the butter Bar Lieutenant, made me remember the reason i never missed one book in the Omega Force series..
Peter Anthony Roland
Miami Beach Florida
January 1 2019
Happy New Year to all my Fellow Sci Sci-Fi Lovers
January 27, 2019
Another Good One!
Joshua Dalzelle does not disappoint as he introduces us to Jacob Brown who is a lot like his father, Jason Burke, whom Jacob has reason to hate with a passion... but a passion that might be diminishing because he’s been hearing that his father isn’t the a-hole he’s ended to believe.
And just like his father, Jacob finds himself smack dab in the middle of a portion of the same mess his father’s involved in and displaying Jason’s grit and determination to complete the mission... even if a lot of stuff gets destroyed in the process.
Joshua can’t write the next book fast enough to make me happy and I can’t wait to see what happens when Jason finds out that his son, who was to be shielded and protected, is kinda following in his footsteps.
Should be exciting just the same.
Joshua Dalzelle does not disappoint as he introduces us to Jacob Brown who is a lot like his father, Jason Burke, whom Jacob has reason to hate with a passion... but a passion that might be diminishing because he’s been hearing that his father isn’t the a-hole he’s ended to believe.
And just like his father, Jacob finds himself smack dab in the middle of a portion of the same mess his father’s involved in and displaying Jason’s grit and determination to complete the mission... even if a lot of stuff gets destroyed in the process.
Joshua can’t write the next book fast enough to make me happy and I can’t wait to see what happens when Jason finds out that his son, who was to be shielded and protected, is kinda following in his footsteps.
Should be exciting just the same.
April 29, 2020
Omega Force Universe
I think it’s great when a the author expands on a universe that many of us have invested 100’s of hours of enjoyable reading or listening. Especially a series like The omega force universe that has huge fan base. I know I’ll find myself Rereading some of the stories because it’s important that you know where all the different storylines are connected threw out a 11 books series. Now I’m able to see more of the universe from a different perspective. This book did just that. I had wondered about Jason’s ties to earth. We know that he’s gave Earth the key for preparing itself for a Galaxy it wouldn’t of had a chance. Cant wait till this book collides with OMF. The best is to come. Hopefully we will see earth show the rest of the Galaxy there’s allot more we offer then just one man from earth.
I think it’s great when a the author expands on a universe that many of us have invested 100’s of hours of enjoyable reading or listening. Especially a series like The omega force universe that has huge fan base. I know I’ll find myself Rereading some of the stories because it’s important that you know where all the different storylines are connected threw out a 11 books series. Now I’m able to see more of the universe from a different perspective. This book did just that. I had wondered about Jason’s ties to earth. We know that he’s gave Earth the key for preparing itself for a Galaxy it wouldn’t of had a chance. Cant wait till this book collides with OMF. The best is to come. Hopefully we will see earth show the rest of the Galaxy there’s allot more we offer then just one man from earth.
June 3, 2020
Not bad
Evidently, from the highlights, I've read this before. Not a bad story. Typical of sci fi writers lately, *Marine* centers on a young cadet (or any inexperienced young person) who finds himself yanked up to 2nd lieutenant and forced to prove (to himself anyway) that he really does have what it takes. Additionally, our young hero discovers that the situation, while not part of his dream, is what he really wants.
The story is okay, not up to Dalzelle's usual writing. However, I like the subtle humor and the interaction among the major players in the story.
What I don't like is poor editing that make me have to read a sentence or passage twice or thrice to figure out what the heck is being said.
Between the lack of careful self review and succumbing to the vogue du jour in creating a cliche character, three stars.
Evidently, from the highlights, I've read this before. Not a bad story. Typical of sci fi writers lately, *Marine* centers on a young cadet (or any inexperienced young person) who finds himself yanked up to 2nd lieutenant and forced to prove (to himself anyway) that he really does have what it takes. Additionally, our young hero discovers that the situation, while not part of his dream, is what he really wants.
The story is okay, not up to Dalzelle's usual writing. However, I like the subtle humor and the interaction among the major players in the story.
What I don't like is poor editing that make me have to read a sentence or passage twice or thrice to figure out what the heck is being said.
Between the lack of careful self review and succumbing to the vogue du jour in creating a cliche character, three stars.
September 19, 2019
Wow. This was an unexpectedly good ride. This book is best described as great paced Military Sci Fi thriller. The characters were decently well developed, but had their own unique voices and there is a lot of room for growth. The action was fantastic, and just detailed enough to let me minds eye paint the picture without getting too much in the weeds.
The MOST impressive, part of this book is that I had absolutely no idea that there was a massive (over 10 books!) other series that was a precursor to this. The fact that all the back story was given with just enough detail to keep me intrigued, and not overloaded, was amazingly impressive from a writing perspective. I will definitely be going back to read all the previous series.
The MOST impressive, part of this book is that I had absolutely no idea that there was a massive (over 10 books!) other series that was a precursor to this. The fact that all the back story was given with just enough detail to keep me intrigued, and not overloaded, was amazingly impressive from a writing perspective. I will definitely be going back to read all the previous series.
July 18, 2021
Excellent continuation of the OF universe!!
I was hesitant at first with starting this because I love the OF series and wasn’t a huge fan of Jacob at first because I hated his view of his father but he grew on me as did the rest of Team Obsidian.
This book definitely opens up the rest of the OF universe in that you get to see it from another POV other than Jason, his team and Mok.
I loved getting to know Webb more and how the rest of Earth shook out after previous events where Jason got Earth hooked up in the greater galactic events.
If you’re a fan of the OG OF then you’ll be happy with this new series. I can’t wait to jump into Boneshaker and see where Team Obsidian goes from here!!!!
I was hesitant at first with starting this because I love the OF series and wasn’t a huge fan of Jacob at first because I hated his view of his father but he grew on me as did the rest of Team Obsidian.
This book definitely opens up the rest of the OF universe in that you get to see it from another POV other than Jason, his team and Mok.
I loved getting to know Webb more and how the rest of Earth shook out after previous events where Jason got Earth hooked up in the greater galactic events.
If you’re a fan of the OG OF then you’ll be happy with this new series. I can’t wait to jump into Boneshaker and see where Team Obsidian goes from here!!!!
May 27, 2024
A fun ride if you can ignore the loose military structure
The book starts off a little rough around the edges and is certainly no literary masterpiece, but if you aren’t hype-sensitive to its USA-centric approach, it is a fun ride with decent characters and a fun story.
This is space opera without too much hard sci-fi (which I actually like when well done, but I enjoy a good space opera too) and a main character who is good.
I wish his “super power” was a little more super, but it is a decent addition and while there are some flaws with his irrational anger towards his father (I can’t explain that without spoilers) it is a solid four star sci-fi read. I’m looking forward to book 2 of the series.
The book starts off a little rough around the edges and is certainly no literary masterpiece, but if you aren’t hype-sensitive to its USA-centric approach, it is a fun ride with decent characters and a fun story.
This is space opera without too much hard sci-fi (which I actually like when well done, but I enjoy a good space opera too) and a main character who is good.
I wish his “super power” was a little more super, but it is a decent addition and while there are some flaws with his irrational anger towards his father (I can’t explain that without spoilers) it is a solid four star sci-fi read. I’m looking forward to book 2 of the series.
January 20, 2019
7/10: Good solid read, something to get your teeth into.
The phrase 'nature abhors a vacuum' is never so apparent as when it's applied to a military unit whose leader has failed to lead.
Good space opera/military sci-fi. Jacob is a little younger than I would have liked, but that adds an interesting dynamic to the character which the author isn't afraid of using. I liked the world building and the action kept me engaged.
All in all, this has potential. It is the start of a spin-off series, so I'm going back and reading the original series since book two of Terran Scout Fleet isn't out yet.
Hopefully, I've found a new author to stalk!
The phrase 'nature abhors a vacuum' is never so apparent as when it's applied to a military unit whose leader has failed to lead.
Good space opera/military sci-fi. Jacob is a little younger than I would have liked, but that adds an interesting dynamic to the character which the author isn't afraid of using. I liked the world building and the action kept me engaged.
All in all, this has potential. It is the start of a spin-off series, so I'm going back and reading the original series since book two of Terran Scout Fleet isn't out yet.
Hopefully, I've found a new author to stalk!
January 29, 2019
Pro's and Con's
Rollicking space opera. Exciting bits towards the end. Like-able characters. BUT, depending on your point of view, either an unsatisfactory ending or a cliff-hanger. I suggest you wait until there are more books in the series, before starting. With a better ending, I would have rated it higher. I'll try to remember to come back in a couple of years when there is more to the series.
Comments about female characters:
Rollicking space opera. Exciting bits towards the end. Like-able characters. BUT, depending on your point of view, either an unsatisfactory ending or a cliff-hanger. I suggest you wait until there are more books in the series, before starting. With a better ending, I would have rated it higher. I'll try to remember to come back in a couple of years when there is more to the series.
Comments about female characters:
April 27, 2019
I guess one has to confess straight out. I have not read the "Other Series" So I came as a new babe to this one. Joshua Dalzelle has done a great job on this intro. Jacob Brown is a young graduate straight out of the academy and we know that Lieutenant straight out are dumber then dumbells. He has been thrown out on the deep end and is part of a recon group that promises to see a lot of covert action.
But Jacob is not your average guy out there he is a bit gifted physically. He will make it tough for someone to kill him. But he is deep in it and he has to try to recover an asset and at the same time avenge his comrade.
But Jacob is not your average guy out there he is a bit gifted physically. He will make it tough for someone to kill him. But he is deep in it and he has to try to recover an asset and at the same time avenge his comrade.
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