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The Crimson Deathbringer Series #1
The Crimson Deathbringer
The Akakies - a technologically advanced species also known as the "Galaxy's Pranksters" are under attack by the Xortaags, a military race bent on conquering the universe.
But Tarq, the Akakies' chief strategist and legendary prankster, has a plan.
Meanwhile on Earth, Jim - a wise-cracking, movie-quoting, OCD-suffering fighter pilot with an infuriating ability to take nothing seriously - is about to propose to his girlfriend Liz, when his childhood friend Kurt abruptly shows up at his house. Soon after, their lives are set on a crash course with a galactic war that threatens the very existence of the human race.
Can our heroes save humanity from the wrath of an overwhelming enemy?
But Tarq, the Akakies' chief strategist and legendary prankster, has a plan.
Meanwhile on Earth, Jim - a wise-cracking, movie-quoting, OCD-suffering fighter pilot with an infuriating ability to take nothing seriously - is about to propose to his girlfriend Liz, when his childhood friend Kurt abruptly shows up at his house. Soon after, their lives are set on a crash course with a galactic war that threatens the very existence of the human race.
Can our heroes save humanity from the wrath of an overwhelming enemy?
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About the author
Sean Robins
105 books63 followers"Who am I? I am Spider-Man."
Well, not really, but this should tell you all you need to know about me and my writing style.
I'm a huge Marvel (plus Game of Thrones, Star Trek AND Star Wars) fan, which shows since my novel is loaded with pop culture references. If you are a sci-fi fan (I assume that you are, otherwise what are you doing here?) you will enjoy them tremendously. I even went full Deadpool in my first draft and broke the fourth wall multiple times, until my editor told it was distracting and kept taking her out of the moment. Shame. Those fourth-wall breaks were hilarious. Still, I can guarantee a few laugh-out-loud moments. Case in point: The "good" aliens in my novel are a race of pranksters, whose main goal in life is pulling other people's legs (They have four legs, hence the slight change in the idiom). My favorite author is Jim Butcher (The Dresden Files), which is probably how I ended up writing in a first-person POV with the same light-hearted, funny tone as he does. The fact that my MC's name is Jim is purely coincidental though.
I am a university/college level English teacher, and including Canada, I have lived and worked in five different countries. I have met people from all around the world. Plus, my parents are from a different background, and so is my wife. As a result, diversity has become a major theme in my novel. My characters look like the bridge crew from Star Trek. One of my female characters even impersonated Uhura once, albeit posthumously.
Well, not really, but this should tell you all you need to know about me and my writing style.
I'm a huge Marvel (plus Game of Thrones, Star Trek AND Star Wars) fan, which shows since my novel is loaded with pop culture references. If you are a sci-fi fan (I assume that you are, otherwise what are you doing here?) you will enjoy them tremendously. I even went full Deadpool in my first draft and broke the fourth wall multiple times, until my editor told it was distracting and kept taking her out of the moment. Shame. Those fourth-wall breaks were hilarious. Still, I can guarantee a few laugh-out-loud moments. Case in point: The "good" aliens in my novel are a race of pranksters, whose main goal in life is pulling other people's legs (They have four legs, hence the slight change in the idiom). My favorite author is Jim Butcher (The Dresden Files), which is probably how I ended up writing in a first-person POV with the same light-hearted, funny tone as he does. The fact that my MC's name is Jim is purely coincidental though.
I am a university/college level English teacher, and including Canada, I have lived and worked in five different countries. I have met people from all around the world. Plus, my parents are from a different background, and so is my wife. As a result, diversity has become a major theme in my novel. My characters look like the bridge crew from Star Trek. One of my female characters even impersonated Uhura once, albeit posthumously.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
July 30, 2022
Alien Invasion! Future Coming Faster Than We Think! Hold On To Your Senses! My experience in this realm consists of Star Trek and Star Wars, plus a handful of other books I've read in the sci-fi genre in the past year. It seems I might like this genre more than I thought... after a few excellent authors I've added to my list this year, I'm adding another one with Sean Robins, writer of The Crimson Deathbringer, published in 2019.
When I first read the title, a bloody crash came to mind. After starting the book, I thought... this doesn't seem all that sci-fi. It's more post-apocalyptic world settling, but then... all hell breaks loose. What I commend the author for most... is starting with great characters and a solid story. I was immediately pulled in by the first couple of characters we're introduced to. And then, when the aliens invade, I felt even more connected with the story. There are two different alien races, and I had to choose which one I liked. Rather than provide more details on the actual plot, here's what you need to know: Young love. Strong female fighters. Bonds of friendship. Trust in a species you haven't ever encountered before. Cool technology with mind altering systems. Betrayal. Humor. Just the beginning of this series.
Interested? Sounds kinda intense, and it is... but don't think there aren't laugh out loud moments and some good old-fashioned romance. Robins includes tons of references that even a clueless guy like me picked up on. I knew several from Star Wars, Star Trek, and Game of Thrones. There were others I vaguely knew of, but it all made for a witty and clever approach to telling the story. Love blossomed between unlikely characters and world domination was a clear theme. Has it hit too close to home? Possibly, but only in the good ways.
I like Robins writing style. It's easy to digest without the clunk of super-sci-fi stories that sometimes go over our heads. There is A LOT of all that futuristic stuff, but it's described in a very understandable manner and it makes you kinda interested in exploring it more. Until, of course, death happens. No alien invasion can be successfully thwarted or pulled off without pain and loss. I'm happy to say that 1 of my 2 fave characters survives this international / foreign / outer galaxy war, but I did have to hold back a tear or two when some bad things happened. As an author, I know what it's like to do that to someone you've created whom you love... which tells me I know Robins painfully made this decision, and probably because it was the right one.
We're left with a bit of a "what could happen next" moment at the end, but I'm along for the ride. Looking forward to the sequel!
When I first read the title, a bloody crash came to mind. After starting the book, I thought... this doesn't seem all that sci-fi. It's more post-apocalyptic world settling, but then... all hell breaks loose. What I commend the author for most... is starting with great characters and a solid story. I was immediately pulled in by the first couple of characters we're introduced to. And then, when the aliens invade, I felt even more connected with the story. There are two different alien races, and I had to choose which one I liked. Rather than provide more details on the actual plot, here's what you need to know: Young love. Strong female fighters. Bonds of friendship. Trust in a species you haven't ever encountered before. Cool technology with mind altering systems. Betrayal. Humor. Just the beginning of this series.
Interested? Sounds kinda intense, and it is... but don't think there aren't laugh out loud moments and some good old-fashioned romance. Robins includes tons of references that even a clueless guy like me picked up on. I knew several from Star Wars, Star Trek, and Game of Thrones. There were others I vaguely knew of, but it all made for a witty and clever approach to telling the story. Love blossomed between unlikely characters and world domination was a clear theme. Has it hit too close to home? Possibly, but only in the good ways.
I like Robins writing style. It's easy to digest without the clunk of super-sci-fi stories that sometimes go over our heads. There is A LOT of all that futuristic stuff, but it's described in a very understandable manner and it makes you kinda interested in exploring it more. Until, of course, death happens. No alien invasion can be successfully thwarted or pulled off without pain and loss. I'm happy to say that 1 of my 2 fave characters survives this international / foreign / outer galaxy war, but I did have to hold back a tear or two when some bad things happened. As an author, I know what it's like to do that to someone you've created whom you love... which tells me I know Robins painfully made this decision, and probably because it was the right one.
We're left with a bit of a "what could happen next" moment at the end, but I'm along for the ride. Looking forward to the sequel!
December 16, 2020
It will be weird for me to review my own book, so I am going to post a few editorial reviews written by other people:
Sean Robins tells an exciting story with engaging and sympathetic characters. The action generally moves the story right along, and the reader remains invested in what happens to the characters. A high level of interest and sense of suspense is maintained by (SPOILER!!) a particularly prominent or appealing character.
TouchPoint Press Acquisitions
The Crimson Deathbringer is an exceptionally well-written, high concept sci-fi futuristic novel with political overtones. In the opening the author introduces characters who get us engaged in his story.This is a massive project, although the author seems to have the skills to pull it off.
Submission Editor/WiDo Publishing
We enjoyed reading The Crimson Deathbringer. We found you had interesting and original ideas, and we particularly liked Jim as a character.
CBC Submissions
I enjoyed The Crimson Deathbringer a lot. I like the action, the humor, the shift between characters. What works really well is the friendship between the Akakies and the humans, the horror of the Voice of God and the (SPOILER!), the friendship between Kurt and Allen and Kurt and Jim, most of the pranks, and Maada's role. I like the battle scenes. The ending(SPOILER, obviously). Moreover, You have a distinctive voice. It's upbeat, humorous and hopeful.
Margaret Diehl/Editor
I really like your story. The way you have drawn the characters makes even the extra-terrestrials totally credible. The story is exciting and quite different from other books I have read in this genre, and your voice and story telling style are unique.
Lionel Ross/Publisher
Sean Robins tells an exciting story with engaging and sympathetic characters. The action generally moves the story right along, and the reader remains invested in what happens to the characters. A high level of interest and sense of suspense is maintained by (SPOILER!!) a particularly prominent or appealing character.
TouchPoint Press Acquisitions
The Crimson Deathbringer is an exceptionally well-written, high concept sci-fi futuristic novel with political overtones. In the opening the author introduces characters who get us engaged in his story.This is a massive project, although the author seems to have the skills to pull it off.
Submission Editor/WiDo Publishing
We enjoyed reading The Crimson Deathbringer. We found you had interesting and original ideas, and we particularly liked Jim as a character.
CBC Submissions
I enjoyed The Crimson Deathbringer a lot. I like the action, the humor, the shift between characters. What works really well is the friendship between the Akakies and the humans, the horror of the Voice of God and the (SPOILER!), the friendship between Kurt and Allen and Kurt and Jim, most of the pranks, and Maada's role. I like the battle scenes. The ending(SPOILER, obviously). Moreover, You have a distinctive voice. It's upbeat, humorous and hopeful.
Margaret Diehl/Editor
I really like your story. The way you have drawn the characters makes even the extra-terrestrials totally credible. The story is exciting and quite different from other books I have read in this genre, and your voice and story telling style are unique.
Lionel Ross/Publisher
April 30, 2019
When I started this book, I had 0 expectations, no idea of what I was going to find.
And man, was I surprised.
The Crimson Death Bringer is a mix of funny and clever dialogue, action packed adventure, with scenes that made me chuckle, bite my nails, and provoked a tear or two.
All while it kept me at the edge of my seat, trying to guess what would happen next. And no, most times I guessed wrong.
In this book, Sean Robins takes us into a futuristic adventure where aliens have come to conquer earth. Seems familiar? Add another alien race who decides helping humans will benefit them in the long run, and there you have it: A ruthless species who wants to conquer earth and treat humans as their slave-poppets vs. another alien race who are technologically advanced.... but are dubbed the galaxy's pranksters and will need the humans to pilot and fight the enemy.
The result? Well, a complete disaster!
There are multiple pov's in this book, something I know isn't easy to write, but Sean pulled it off perfectly. His characters are well drawn, his descriptions clear and easy to envision.
And the ending will make you wish for more!
The Crimson Death Bringer is a compelling, thrilling and fun read that will keep you at the edge of your seat. Totally recommend it!
And man, was I surprised.
The Crimson Death Bringer is a mix of funny and clever dialogue, action packed adventure, with scenes that made me chuckle, bite my nails, and provoked a tear or two.
All while it kept me at the edge of my seat, trying to guess what would happen next. And no, most times I guessed wrong.
In this book, Sean Robins takes us into a futuristic adventure where aliens have come to conquer earth. Seems familiar? Add another alien race who decides helping humans will benefit them in the long run, and there you have it: A ruthless species who wants to conquer earth and treat humans as their slave-poppets vs. another alien race who are technologically advanced.... but are dubbed the galaxy's pranksters and will need the humans to pilot and fight the enemy.
The result? Well, a complete disaster!
There are multiple pov's in this book, something I know isn't easy to write, but Sean pulled it off perfectly. His characters are well drawn, his descriptions clear and easy to envision.
And the ending will make you wish for more!
The Crimson Death Bringer is a compelling, thrilling and fun read that will keep you at the edge of your seat. Totally recommend it!
July 21, 2019
The Crimson Deathbringer is an action packed futuristic thriller with a gritty vibe. Robins immediately draws the reader into the action with an assassination. The world endures a global dictatorship ruled by General Graham Zheng who murdered the peaceful world ruler, Thomas van der Hagen, turning his son, Kurt van der Hagen, into a freedom fighting assassin. From utopia to dystopia in a single bullet. Kurt's friend, airforce fighter pilot Major Jim Harrison is thrust headlong into the action when Kurt turns up wounded in his house. In the next chapter, the reader confronts the universe conquering alien Xortaags hit list, and the poor Akaki race who are next in the line to come under attack. The mix of conflict, both earthly and galactic, makes for an edge of seat read that will appeal to thriller and sci fi aficionados alike. Excellent dialogue, an amusing wit and an endearing protagonist in Jim, along with seat-gripping pace, all make The Crimson Deathbringer a stunning read. Pure entertainment!
October 15, 2019
I got the copy of this book from the author to share my honest opinion with you guys.
It's weird for me to say something like this but I'll say it nonetheless: sometimes there is such a thing as too much geek. As a geek myself I need the right balance in building a geek character as one of the main protagonists. Talking about certain movies/shows/books can be great, and I can honestly say that I got most of the references, but when every other page contains multiple references to different fandoms from different platforms it gets distracting and, lets be honest, just too much. My only suggestion to the author is to quit paying attention to other people's work and concentrate on giving attention to details when trying to create something as ambitious as space opera.
Over and out
It's weird for me to say something like this but I'll say it nonetheless: sometimes there is such a thing as too much geek. As a geek myself I need the right balance in building a geek character as one of the main protagonists. Talking about certain movies/shows/books can be great, and I can honestly say that I got most of the references, but when every other page contains multiple references to different fandoms from different platforms it gets distracting and, lets be honest, just too much. My only suggestion to the author is to quit paying attention to other people's work and concentrate on giving attention to details when trying to create something as ambitious as space opera.
Over and out
April 9, 2019
The story is even more dynamic than I expected, I look forward to reading it again, more slowly and spending more time on the details.
September 3, 2019
Unique!
Nicely put, immersive, funny, action-packed, witty and intelligent. Sean Robins interweaves various subplots, challenges boredom and mundanity. Readers are in for a treat, undoubtedly. The narrative style is also unique, even incomparable. Therefore, if we tried to refer this work to Game of Thrones, that very attempt would be deemed utterly inappropriate.
Highly recommended!
Nicely put, immersive, funny, action-packed, witty and intelligent. Sean Robins interweaves various subplots, challenges boredom and mundanity. Readers are in for a treat, undoubtedly. The narrative style is also unique, even incomparable. Therefore, if we tried to refer this work to Game of Thrones, that very attempt would be deemed utterly inappropriate.
Highly recommended!
April 27, 2019
See my 4.5 -- how do you slice that star in half? -- review on my blog, The Writer's Grab-Bag. Get cozy / hunker down. You'll enjoy this fun and funny, action-packed sci-fi debut novel.
May 3, 2019
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A futuristic Earth torn apart by an evil global dictatorship finds itself clashing with the discover of not only life on other planets, but a galactic war that has put Earth in it’s crosshairs in author Sean Robbin’s novel “The Crimson Deathbringer”. Here is the synopsis.
The Synopsis
The Akakies, a peaceful, technologically advanced alien species known as “the galaxy's pranksters,” are under attack by the Xortaags, a vicious military race bent on conquering the universe. The Xortaags are deadly, but Tarq, the Akakies’ chief strategist and legendary shadow master, has a plan.
Meanwhile on Earth, Jim, a wise-cracking, movie-quoting, OCD-suffering fighter pilot, is about to propose to his girlfriend Liz when his childhood friend Kurt shows up at his house, injured and covered in blood. Kurt is a freedom fighter/super- assassin hunted by a brutal military dictatorship’s security forces. Soon after, Jim, Liz and Kurt’s lives are set to crash with a galactic war that threatens the very existence of the human race.
Can our heroes save humanity from the wrath of an overwhelming enemy?
The Crimson Deathbringer seamlessly blends breathtaking action sequences with mischievous humor. If you are a science fiction/space opera fan, this book, with its memorable characters, formidable antagonist and Game of Thrones style shocking moments, is written especially for you.
The Review
This is a perfectly written sci-fi epic that blends espionage and intrigue, massive battle scenes with shocking moments readers won’t see coming, and a blend of pop culture references, humor and character development that will have readers invested in the narrative from start to finish. The changing perspectives between the main protagonists, the various individuals in the alien races and even secondary characters perspective of the war made this all the more engaging as a reader.
While the author does a marvelous job of bringing these new alien races and the various technologies they have to the story, it’s the human element that really brings the heart and soul of the book to life. The witty exchanges between characters like Jim and his girlfriend Liz or alien commander Tarq make this a relatable and humorous story that others can get behind.
The Verdict
In just a little over 200 pages, the author manages to bring a slew of shocking twists and turns to a brand new sci-fi story to life in a glorious way. From terrifying secret weapons and devastating losses, to uneasy alliances and adult humor that balances the voice of the narrative overall, this is a story that shouldn’t be missed. What is sure to become everyone’s new sci-fi obsession, this is a novel you don’t want to miss, so be sure to grab your copy of “The Crimson Deathbringer” by author Sean Robbins today!
A futuristic Earth torn apart by an evil global dictatorship finds itself clashing with the discover of not only life on other planets, but a galactic war that has put Earth in it’s crosshairs in author Sean Robbin’s novel “The Crimson Deathbringer”. Here is the synopsis.
The Synopsis
The Akakies, a peaceful, technologically advanced alien species known as “the galaxy's pranksters,” are under attack by the Xortaags, a vicious military race bent on conquering the universe. The Xortaags are deadly, but Tarq, the Akakies’ chief strategist and legendary shadow master, has a plan.
Meanwhile on Earth, Jim, a wise-cracking, movie-quoting, OCD-suffering fighter pilot, is about to propose to his girlfriend Liz when his childhood friend Kurt shows up at his house, injured and covered in blood. Kurt is a freedom fighter/super- assassin hunted by a brutal military dictatorship’s security forces. Soon after, Jim, Liz and Kurt’s lives are set to crash with a galactic war that threatens the very existence of the human race.
Can our heroes save humanity from the wrath of an overwhelming enemy?
The Crimson Deathbringer seamlessly blends breathtaking action sequences with mischievous humor. If you are a science fiction/space opera fan, this book, with its memorable characters, formidable antagonist and Game of Thrones style shocking moments, is written especially for you.
The Review
This is a perfectly written sci-fi epic that blends espionage and intrigue, massive battle scenes with shocking moments readers won’t see coming, and a blend of pop culture references, humor and character development that will have readers invested in the narrative from start to finish. The changing perspectives between the main protagonists, the various individuals in the alien races and even secondary characters perspective of the war made this all the more engaging as a reader.
While the author does a marvelous job of bringing these new alien races and the various technologies they have to the story, it’s the human element that really brings the heart and soul of the book to life. The witty exchanges between characters like Jim and his girlfriend Liz or alien commander Tarq make this a relatable and humorous story that others can get behind.
The Verdict
In just a little over 200 pages, the author manages to bring a slew of shocking twists and turns to a brand new sci-fi story to life in a glorious way. From terrifying secret weapons and devastating losses, to uneasy alliances and adult humor that balances the voice of the narrative overall, this is a story that shouldn’t be missed. What is sure to become everyone’s new sci-fi obsession, this is a novel you don’t want to miss, so be sure to grab your copy of “The Crimson Deathbringer” by author Sean Robbins today!
July 5, 2019
Earth is in the grip of a dictator. The resistance led by the son of the peacemaker that was killed. Space has its own problems when the prank loving Akakies are defeated in battle by the Xortaags. They arrange a hasty treaty and the Xortaags decide to defeat and inhabit the primitive planet called Earth with their Crimson Deathbringers and the Voice of God. What could go wrong? The Akakies send two of the military strategists to Earth to build up a resistance force in a hidden base in the far North of Earth. Meanwhile on Earth, Kurt, the Resistance leader is wounded and seeks refuge in the house of his old childhood friend Jim. Jim just happens to be the flight jockey known for his flying and fighting abilities. He and his fiancé to be tend the wounded Kurt. They are all tracked down and sentenced to death. Just as the sentence is to be fulfilled, Tarq and Barook, the Akakies, transport them to their base and begin building their forces as the Xortaags attack and kill millions while setting up the Voice of God to reduce human kind to a bunch of willing slaves. The Xortaags also set up their defenses while waiting for the arrival of all of the settlers. Then Maada, their chief military expert, will eliminate all of humanity. The humans being trained and led by the Akakies have just weeks to defeat the enemy. This action-filled gem is filled with characters you’ll love, root for, and weep for when they die. The references to Star Trek and Spok can be hilarious. So many die while defending their way of life is mind boggling, but the tale is told well. I recommend this one to all scifi lovers
July 26, 2019
Here’s the thing: Most first novels suck. Even if the storyline is okay—excellent even—a new writer usually brings so many problems (POV, grammar, spelling, improper words, mismatched modifiers, etc) to the table that they destroy the first writing attempt. Not here, however, definitely not here.
The Crimson Deathbringer is topnotch space opera. It’s not hard science fiction, but it’s not fantasy either—it’s genuine space opera written with the skill of someone who actually knows the English language in all its complex nuances. It’s funny, scary, intriguing, engaging—in a phrase, I loved it!
You have your good aliens (mostly), and your bad aliens (mostly), and your humans (good mostly). You have your starships (don’t worry about their technology), your deathrays (don’t worry about their technology either), and a whole lot of other “space opera stuff” that makes all this work. It may not be Heinlein, but it’s Buck Rogers on steroids!
The Crimson Deathbringer is topnotch space opera. It’s not hard science fiction, but it’s not fantasy either—it’s genuine space opera written with the skill of someone who actually knows the English language in all its complex nuances. It’s funny, scary, intriguing, engaging—in a phrase, I loved it!
You have your good aliens (mostly), and your bad aliens (mostly), and your humans (good mostly). You have your starships (don’t worry about their technology), your deathrays (don’t worry about their technology either), and a whole lot of other “space opera stuff” that makes all this work. It may not be Heinlein, but it’s Buck Rogers on steroids!
May 28, 2019
Ahhh! This is a brilliant Sci-Fi I read in one sitting. Here's the deal, when I was asked to read this book, I read the blurb and immediately knew I needed to read The Crimson Deathbringer. It felt like the Sci-Fi I had been waiting to read for a while. And I was right!
I love the dialogue. There is humorous and cleverness in the lines, and I was highly impressed with the characters. There are multiple POVs, which sometimes I think can be the downfall of a book, but Sean Robins has proven himself a mighty fine author in this one.
The Crimson Deathbringer is action-packed, adventurous and sometimes emotional. I spent the entire time reading trying to figure out all the details, and I was surprised in the end. I was left wanting more, and I am really looking forward to reading more from Sean Robins! Highly recommended, and going into my favorites of 2019!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
I love the dialogue. There is humorous and cleverness in the lines, and I was highly impressed with the characters. There are multiple POVs, which sometimes I think can be the downfall of a book, but Sean Robins has proven himself a mighty fine author in this one.
The Crimson Deathbringer is action-packed, adventurous and sometimes emotional. I spent the entire time reading trying to figure out all the details, and I was surprised in the end. I was left wanting more, and I am really looking forward to reading more from Sean Robins! Highly recommended, and going into my favorites of 2019!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
September 10, 2019
I am not a fan of sci-fi but the author brought his story to life. It is fast paced and the characters are well developed! Good job Sean!
May 3, 2019
Got the free copy of this book in the exchange of an honest review.
Being not a sci-fi person, I was little skeptical about reading this book but, now I can say this one is a gripping sci-fi. In the era of 'Game of Thrones'.. I was searching for similar content as this genre has started to excite me. Kudos to the Author, Sean Robbins who has done a great job of mixing action with humor quite well. I would love to read more from him.
If you are a sci-fi lover or just love to read book then, go for this one as this won't disappoint you.
Being not a sci-fi person, I was little skeptical about reading this book but, now I can say this one is a gripping sci-fi. In the era of 'Game of Thrones'.. I was searching for similar content as this genre has started to excite me. Kudos to the Author, Sean Robbins who has done a great job of mixing action with humor quite well. I would love to read more from him.
If you are a sci-fi lover or just love to read book then, go for this one as this won't disappoint you.
May 23, 2019
This is a compilation of the most hilarious quotes and concomitant brief scenes from Star Trek, Star Wars, Deadpool, Back to the Future, Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel and DC Comics and more - and Shakespeare!! all packaged into vivid and tightly moving action sequences - an epic, really - of an alien invasion and attempted complete subjugation of the entire Earth. Can Jim, the good aliens, and their mercenaries defeat the Galaxy's most evil (yet oddly human) and undefeated alien General who pilots the Crimson Deathbringer? There is romance, danger, and violence befitting Game of Thrones. The bad aliens have their own altruistic (regarding their own planet) motivations and the good humans are flawed but unstoppable. The action never stops nor the wisecracking and practical jokes. There is an undercurrent of true love and appreciation of humanity with all of our foibles and pathos as well. I loved it. And the author plans a sequel!
May 3, 2019
Robins weaves a unique space opera that actually involves refreshingly unique alien species. By focusing on several central characters, the reader experiences a cosmic battlefront through the eyes of feasible individuals. With a simple prose, "The Crimson Deathbringer" is an easy read that succeeds in engrossing the reader from start to finish.
May 15, 2019
Action packed sci-fi thriller
I can honestly say that I have been thoroughly entertained by this book. I don't usually read sci-fi as such books are normally much of a muchness. This however, was very different. Having read the book description I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did.
With Earth under attack by aliens it falls to a small group of humans, aided by another alien race, to save not only the planet but the entire human race.
There are some sparkling battle scenes, plenty of emotion and lots of surprises along the way. I loved it and would thoroughly recommend it to anyone wanting a real thrill a minute space adventure, beautifully put together by an author who clearly knows his stuff. Five big stars for this one.
I can honestly say that I have been thoroughly entertained by this book. I don't usually read sci-fi as such books are normally much of a muchness. This however, was very different. Having read the book description I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did.
With Earth under attack by aliens it falls to a small group of humans, aided by another alien race, to save not only the planet but the entire human race.
There are some sparkling battle scenes, plenty of emotion and lots of surprises along the way. I loved it and would thoroughly recommend it to anyone wanting a real thrill a minute space adventure, beautifully put together by an author who clearly knows his stuff. Five big stars for this one.
April 12, 2019
An expansionist and warlike race of aliens has set their eyes on earth as their next target. Standing in their way are:
- Tarq, an alien from a prankster race who've already tangled with the bad guys. And have been comprehensively spanked. Because, as Tarq puts it, they are a bunch of pussies.
- Jim, a wise arse, loudmouth veteran pilot of earth civil war - oh because earth is now under the rule of a dictator - who is suffering from ptsd because he'd been totally spanked in his last combat by some hottie enemy pilot. He cracks jokes, a shit load of them.
- The said hottie enemy pilot
- Jims childhood friend, who is a murderer/freedom fighter, depending at which end of his rifle you are
- Jim's deeply good-hearted, totally irritating fiance.
- A bunch of untrained, undisciplined soldier wannabes.
What could possibly go wrong?
Well a lot. People die, a crap load of them. Sacrifices made. Humanity saved.
This is an easy read. Definitely not a hard sci fi, not much if a world building. It's more in the mold of star trek. Action packed and overall a fun read.
- Tarq, an alien from a prankster race who've already tangled with the bad guys. And have been comprehensively spanked. Because, as Tarq puts it, they are a bunch of pussies.
- Jim, a wise arse, loudmouth veteran pilot of earth civil war - oh because earth is now under the rule of a dictator - who is suffering from ptsd because he'd been totally spanked in his last combat by some hottie enemy pilot. He cracks jokes, a shit load of them.
- The said hottie enemy pilot
- Jims childhood friend, who is a murderer/freedom fighter, depending at which end of his rifle you are
- Jim's deeply good-hearted, totally irritating fiance.
- A bunch of untrained, undisciplined soldier wannabes.
What could possibly go wrong?
Well a lot. People die, a crap load of them. Sacrifices made. Humanity saved.
This is an easy read. Definitely not a hard sci fi, not much if a world building. It's more in the mold of star trek. Action packed and overall a fun read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2019
This is what I call a smart and fun read. The book is very captivating. The story seamlessly changes from battle field to romance. It's described so detailed that reading a book feels like sneaking into someone's private life. The plot is packed with witty humour, which makes this book very pleasurable to read. Bravo author. I am eager to read a second part
May 25, 2019
Hugely enjoyable and engaging space opera. Alien invasion of Earth with a twist sounds like a lot of other stories, the execution makes all the difference. Sean Robbins has the confidence to have big ideas and a huge cast as well as the craft to balance them. The narrative shifts across aliens and humans and to give each the space to engage the reader, everyone has a motive and a context and when they clash the action has weight and consequence.
The plot mechanics are ruthlessly efficient, Sean Robbins pushes the story at a considerable pace and no one gets to escape unscathed. Victory for anyone is hard won and harder to maintain, everyone learns from their mistakes and has to make new ones to keep alive and in the struggle. The action is intense and beautifully staged, the reveals are cunningly timed and move the story forward with force and increasing momentum.
The cast are hugely engaging, the leading characters are determined and individual, they drive the plot and are driven by the plot in a wholly satisfactory way. The walk on cast give depth and flavour to the story, Sean has a gift for very quickly introducing a character who is fully fledged in a short space, there is nothing impersonal about this conflict. Aliens and humans are given scope and motive so that the struggle between them has depth and engagement.
Sean Robins control of the narrative is impressive, there are huge number of shifting viewpoints, including a first person narrative, none it is is confusing. The structure gives the room for a wide spread look at the conflict and move from the global to the specific with ease and impact. It opens the scope of the story very nicely placing Earth in the middle of a galactic struggle naturally and effectively.
You do need a high tolerance for pop culture references and jokes, they never get in the way of the story, they do not quite come off cumulatively as Sean Robbins might have intended. They hide the character who indulges in them the most a little more than they reveal him.
I do have a concern with the attrition rate in the cast. Not the fact that it is high, rather that it does not bend the story the way it should. The reader is encouraged to have an investment in some of the cast, they take up enough story space to become significant and their demise doe not have the following impact that I would have expected.
I bought this book to support a colleague, I read it because I love science fiction, I greatly enjoyed it because Sean Robbins has delivered a great story that pulls the reader into the action with tremendous skill and confidence. I strongly recommend it because the benefits of reading excellent science fiction are clinically proven to improve your joy in living. Do yourself a favour, get the benefits of first space opera that The Crimson Deathbringer so happily delivers.
The plot mechanics are ruthlessly efficient, Sean Robbins pushes the story at a considerable pace and no one gets to escape unscathed. Victory for anyone is hard won and harder to maintain, everyone learns from their mistakes and has to make new ones to keep alive and in the struggle. The action is intense and beautifully staged, the reveals are cunningly timed and move the story forward with force and increasing momentum.
The cast are hugely engaging, the leading characters are determined and individual, they drive the plot and are driven by the plot in a wholly satisfactory way. The walk on cast give depth and flavour to the story, Sean has a gift for very quickly introducing a character who is fully fledged in a short space, there is nothing impersonal about this conflict. Aliens and humans are given scope and motive so that the struggle between them has depth and engagement.
Sean Robins control of the narrative is impressive, there are huge number of shifting viewpoints, including a first person narrative, none it is is confusing. The structure gives the room for a wide spread look at the conflict and move from the global to the specific with ease and impact. It opens the scope of the story very nicely placing Earth in the middle of a galactic struggle naturally and effectively.
You do need a high tolerance for pop culture references and jokes, they never get in the way of the story, they do not quite come off cumulatively as Sean Robbins might have intended. They hide the character who indulges in them the most a little more than they reveal him.
I do have a concern with the attrition rate in the cast. Not the fact that it is high, rather that it does not bend the story the way it should. The reader is encouraged to have an investment in some of the cast, they take up enough story space to become significant and their demise doe not have the following impact that I would have expected.
I bought this book to support a colleague, I read it because I love science fiction, I greatly enjoyed it because Sean Robbins has delivered a great story that pulls the reader into the action with tremendous skill and confidence. I strongly recommend it because the benefits of reading excellent science fiction are clinically proven to improve your joy in living. Do yourself a favour, get the benefits of first space opera that The Crimson Deathbringer so happily delivers.
May 23, 2019
This book ended up surprising the heck out of me! I really enjoyed reading this. I suppose it’s genre is Sci-fi but it is so much more! The author brings humor into the battle for earth and it works! Along with adventuresome battles, aliens, lasers, mind control machines and the possible annihilation of earth’s population.
The main characters are brought to life as they fight the invading Xortaag-a race going around forcibly colonizing planets. The Akaki-alien race whose planet would be next on the Xortaags list, decides to join with the people of earth to defeat them before they can reach the Akaki’s home planet! The survival of Earth rests on Jim, Liz, Kurt and Tarq! I enjoyed these characters so much! The author brings them to life with their love for humanity, for each other and he gives them a great sense of humor.
I was so engaged in the last fourth of this story I couldn’t put it down! Operation Royalty-final battle to save Earth from the Xortaags was terrifying! No character is safe in this author’s story! In my opinion he has told one heck of a tale and I enjoyed every word of it!
The main characters are brought to life as they fight the invading Xortaag-a race going around forcibly colonizing planets. The Akaki-alien race whose planet would be next on the Xortaags list, decides to join with the people of earth to defeat them before they can reach the Akaki’s home planet! The survival of Earth rests on Jim, Liz, Kurt and Tarq! I enjoyed these characters so much! The author brings them to life with their love for humanity, for each other and he gives them a great sense of humor.
I was so engaged in the last fourth of this story I couldn’t put it down! Operation Royalty-final battle to save Earth from the Xortaags was terrifying! No character is safe in this author’s story! In my opinion he has told one heck of a tale and I enjoyed every word of it!
June 24, 2019
Are you ready for the invasion?
The Crimson Deathbringer straps you into a fantastical science fiction adventure filled with action. A group of malicious aliens called the Xortaags set out to alienate humans and colonate Earth. The human race must rely on help from the Akakies, a technologically advanced race of aliens who want to destroy the Xortaags once and for all. With a bold cast of characters, this amped up plot will leave you salivating for more.
I loved the unique futuristic story world, filled with fun technological advancements. Mind control machines, time jumps throughout space, and protective force fields are just a few items you’ll encounter in this story set in 2047. But the brave plot line is what elevates this story. Nothing is held back. The Akakies plan to save humanity involves sacrifice and bravery unlike any I’ve come across within a book, and while the bold plot twist may have failed within a different world, they only create more tension and heart pounding excitement within The Crimson Deathbringer.
I loved the characters, especially Tarq, the Akakies’ chief strategis. The Akakies are known not only for being one of the most technologically advanced alien species in the universe, but for being notorious pranksters. Tarq never passes up an opportunity to mess with his fellow soldiers, even in the most inappropriate times. It’s amazing, and much needed comic relief. The dialog is cleaver, witty and always realistic to the characters and situations.
My only concern was pacing within the first third of the book. There are two plots developing. The humans, who are dealing with a dictator-type ruler of Earth, and the aliens who are engaged in their own war. It took awhile for the two stories to connect, and I found myself wondering how it would even be possible. Luckily, when the big moment came, I wasn’t disappointed. And even though it did feel like a slow burn in the beginning, I was still fully engaged with the different worlds. You will easily sink into this story.
If you’re a fan of alien invasion science fiction, this is the book for you.
So get ready.
The Xortaags coming.
The Crimson Deathbringer straps you into a fantastical science fiction adventure filled with action. A group of malicious aliens called the Xortaags set out to alienate humans and colonate Earth. The human race must rely on help from the Akakies, a technologically advanced race of aliens who want to destroy the Xortaags once and for all. With a bold cast of characters, this amped up plot will leave you salivating for more.
I loved the unique futuristic story world, filled with fun technological advancements. Mind control machines, time jumps throughout space, and protective force fields are just a few items you’ll encounter in this story set in 2047. But the brave plot line is what elevates this story. Nothing is held back. The Akakies plan to save humanity involves sacrifice and bravery unlike any I’ve come across within a book, and while the bold plot twist may have failed within a different world, they only create more tension and heart pounding excitement within The Crimson Deathbringer.
I loved the characters, especially Tarq, the Akakies’ chief strategis. The Akakies are known not only for being one of the most technologically advanced alien species in the universe, but for being notorious pranksters. Tarq never passes up an opportunity to mess with his fellow soldiers, even in the most inappropriate times. It’s amazing, and much needed comic relief. The dialog is cleaver, witty and always realistic to the characters and situations.
My only concern was pacing within the first third of the book. There are two plots developing. The humans, who are dealing with a dictator-type ruler of Earth, and the aliens who are engaged in their own war. It took awhile for the two stories to connect, and I found myself wondering how it would even be possible. Luckily, when the big moment came, I wasn’t disappointed. And even though it did feel like a slow burn in the beginning, I was still fully engaged with the different worlds. You will easily sink into this story.
If you’re a fan of alien invasion science fiction, this is the book for you.
So get ready.
The Xortaags coming.
July 25, 2019
So... I ran into this book on Twitter while hanging out, and I am glad I found it! This is a unique story and I did enjoy it. If you like jokes and aliens who prank people, this book is for you. Also, if you are into movie references and funny quotes, this book is piled with them! The story kicks off with a strong start. I had to say that the beginning drew me in and like claws, it didn't let go. I really liked Jim and Liz. I got on board with The Resistance and I even liked Kurt and Allen. They had me hoping for the best when it came to their big fights with the alien species that had attacked earth.
This book has a mixed ending. If you are looking for happily-ever-after this isn't it. There are those who die to save the earth, but the author puts it together in a way that works well. You finish reading feeling like that was the correct end to the story.
Now here is why I couldn't give this book five stars...
Jim is a stand-up southerner who says he is all about caring for women, yet he helps one of the aliens (Tarq) to get two women for sexual reasons. Both women were drunk and I'm not sure they would be all for having sex with an alien if they were sober. As a general rule I live by, I don't take advantage of people when they are intoxicated. The situation is a little non-consensual and it left me wondering... Maybe the issue will be brought up again if the author writes another book.
Overall, if you walked into my bookstore, I would tell you that you should grab this read if you like funny aliens, movie references, and wise-cracks. I'm glad that I got a chance to read this.
This book has a mixed ending. If you are looking for happily-ever-after this isn't it. There are those who die to save the earth, but the author puts it together in a way that works well. You finish reading feeling like that was the correct end to the story.
Now here is why I couldn't give this book five stars...
Jim is a stand-up southerner who says he is all about caring for women, yet he helps one of the aliens (Tarq) to get two women for sexual reasons. Both women were drunk and I'm not sure they would be all for having sex with an alien if they were sober. As a general rule I live by, I don't take advantage of people when they are intoxicated. The situation is a little non-consensual and it left me wondering... Maybe the issue will be brought up again if the author writes another book.
Overall, if you walked into my bookstore, I would tell you that you should grab this read if you like funny aliens, movie references, and wise-cracks. I'm glad that I got a chance to read this.
May 23, 2019
This book surprised me with its wit, depth of character, and action. The endless references to modern pop-culture were--mostly--well placed and entertaining, and even if you're not a rabid consumer of Star Trek, GoT, et al. Most of the characters amusingly don't get the references either, so if you don't, you won't feel left out. (I got most or all the references, but YMMV).
The alien races are silly in a good way, keeping with the tone of the rest of the book. The Xortaags make entertaining antagonists, and I actually found them more relatable than the corrupt human government. Meanwhile, the practical joking Akaki allies manage to be simultaneously harmless and powerful.
Sean Robins does a fantastic job bouncing between first and third person without it being jarring or confusing, and all the characters have strong, unique voices. My one minor complaint is that there were a few times I felt I didn't know a character as much as I was supposed to, which detracted somewhat from the emotional impact of some of the events.
All in all, I was very, pleasantly surprised.
The alien races are silly in a good way, keeping with the tone of the rest of the book. The Xortaags make entertaining antagonists, and I actually found them more relatable than the corrupt human government. Meanwhile, the practical joking Akaki allies manage to be simultaneously harmless and powerful.
Sean Robins does a fantastic job bouncing between first and third person without it being jarring or confusing, and all the characters have strong, unique voices. My one minor complaint is that there were a few times I felt I didn't know a character as much as I was supposed to, which detracted somewhat from the emotional impact of some of the events.
All in all, I was very, pleasantly surprised.
May 8, 2019
I love checking out new, fresh sci-fi authors that are writing good books & discovering them. I can say without a doubt this was the best debut novel I've read from a writer in a LONG time.
The book is filled with anything you'd want out of a sci-fi novel. fun story, checked! great characters, checked! Classic sci-fi plots but with fresh twists & turns, check!
What I was largely impressed by is the insane number of references that are made & used here. The novel is clearly a work of passion & commitment & what stands high 7 above it is the ultimate respect of & for the audience.
If you're looking for a good time in a fresh novel, this is definitely the book u want to pick up
The book is filled with anything you'd want out of a sci-fi novel. fun story, checked! great characters, checked! Classic sci-fi plots but with fresh twists & turns, check!
What I was largely impressed by is the insane number of references that are made & used here. The novel is clearly a work of passion & commitment & what stands high 7 above it is the ultimate respect of & for the audience.
If you're looking for a good time in a fresh novel, this is definitely the book u want to pick up
May 10, 2019
Science-fiction is not something that I usually follow all the time, so I picked this one out of curiosity, and I wasn't sure if I had made the right call, however, a couple of pages in I was pleasantly & very joyfully hooked.
Right off the bat, I could easily empathize with the characters while at the same time being surprised by how they would react. There's also the plot that's full of shock & twists that made for a great reading time.
Pretty much all the jokes landed for me as well which is something that I didn't expect, especially in a science-fiction novel.
Right off the bat, I could easily empathize with the characters while at the same time being surprised by how they would react. There's also the plot that's full of shock & twists that made for a great reading time.
Pretty much all the jokes landed for me as well which is something that I didn't expect, especially in a science-fiction novel.
July 22, 2019
Fun, fun, fun sci-fi alien invasion book. Tone is light and pithy, though the author also hits you in the feels when the story calls for it. Lots of wild concepts with traditional tropes and very inventive new ones. Great book!
June 25, 2019
Science fiction is not my usual reading matter.I am nor a Star wars fan, however I am a huge fan of Top Gun.And was surprised to have enjoyed the read as much as I did.
Strong protagonist characters like Jim,Liz and Commander Tarq were both believable and amazing and gave the story a strong human element.
This novel will have popular appeal in today's market, particularly for the young readers.
I was impressed with Sean's ability of exquisite phrasing and way with words.
Well done Sean,this being your debut book,I look forward to further reading from you in the future.
Joy Gerken Pen name Joy M. Lilley
Strong protagonist characters like Jim,Liz and Commander Tarq were both believable and amazing and gave the story a strong human element.
This novel will have popular appeal in today's market, particularly for the young readers.
I was impressed with Sean's ability of exquisite phrasing and way with words.
Well done Sean,this being your debut book,I look forward to further reading from you in the future.
Joy Gerken Pen name Joy M. Lilley
May 13, 2019
I've found this book based on the Amazon ranking and decided to give it a try. Usually I would read non-fiction books because rarely you'll find a good fiction in which you don't skip boring to death pages. But (Wow, man!) this one I ate from first page till last. It blew my mind with creativity, realistic heroes who later become your friends, very dynamic plot, smart and sometimes corny jokes. I simply loved this book. Normally it's me who cracks jokes in difficult life situations and people find it weird sometimes. But here I found Jim does it too. I particularly liked prank with heaven. I myself believed in it for a moment and thought "What about saving the humanity? Do aliens know how to return a dead person from death? Or how the author will make it work?" I really felt Jim's pain when after the tragedy he locks himself up in a room. I passed through the similar feelings in my life and the only thought I had " You can do it mate", holding my fists for him. My jaw has literally dropped from the last scene with Matias and Oxana... Wow, man! You brought such a realistic feelings up with your grandiose book that well known authors should bite their nails. I definitely recommend it for reading. Waiting for the sequel.
February 21, 2023
Sean Robins drops us into an intergalactic war with the fun, exciting, and twisting space opera The Crimson Deathbringer! As Earth is drawn into a space war against an alien menace, it falls to an unlikely group of heroes to save the planet. Robins takes this tried and true formulas and brings it in new directions with The Crimson Deathbringer. There are many genuine surprises packed into this book, but it was really the fun and deep characters that took center stage. I loved our mix of fighter pilots, assassins, and even alien pranksters! The perfect blend of action, deep character moments, and humor reminded me pleasantly of the Stargate shows (which I adore). If you love space operas but are also looking for some action and humor, definitely come blast your way through The Crimson Deathbringer!
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