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Renegade Star #14

Renegade Evolution

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The truth about the gods will set you free.

Jace Hughes and the people of Earth have joined with the Union and the Sarkonians to create the largest alliance in human history. They have amassed a wealth of weapons, shields, and the strongest military ever conceived.

But it may not be enough.

The Celestials have gone on the offensive, attacking Alliance colonies and key points of interest throughout the galaxy, destroying valuable resources that humanity needs to fight back.

And no one can stop them.

Except that somewhere, buried in the distant stars of the galaxy, hope remains alive.

On a ringworld known as Elysia, Jace and his crew search desperately for answers. It was here that the Celestials first discovered alien technology and used it to transform themselves. If a weakness is to be found, then perhaps it exists somewhere in this lost, forgotten ring.

But the enemy is already on their way… and time is running out.

324 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 7, 2020

533 people are currently reading
160 people want to read

About the author

J.N. Chaney

462 books9,614 followers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 10, 2024
· Book 1: Renegade Star ★★★★
· Book 2: Renegade Atlas ★★★★
· Book 3: Renegade Moon ★★★★
· Book 4: Renegade Lost ★★★★
· Book 5: Renegade Fleet ★★★★
· Book 6: Renegade Earth ★★★★
· Book 7: Renegade Dawn★★★★
· Book 8: Renegade Children ★★★★
· Book 9: Renegade Union ★★★★
· Book 10: Renegade Empire ★★★★
· Book 11: Renegade Descent ★★★★
· Book 12: Renegade Rising ★★★★
· Book 13: Renegade Alliance ★★★★
· Book 15: Renegade War ★★★★
· Book 16: Renegade Peace ★★★★
Profile Image for J.R. Handley.
Author 54 books261 followers
April 13, 2020
This was a fun series! It was so amazing that I blasted through the series and forgot to write individual reviews. I'll be posting a review of the entire series on the page for book one, but I didn't want to keep my enthusiasm to myself. So, I’m sharing this ringing endorsement of the series, here, on the individual book pages. They were all epic in their own right, though there were times I thought I might have a heart attack during the action scenes! And can we talk about how awesome the narrator was? Wow, just wow! Overall, this series was a fun read and I was able to gloss over the near-death experiences!

My full review for this series doesn't fit, so read it here: https://jrhandley.com/2020/04/10/book...

My Overall Thoughts:
Okay, let’s get into the weeds on this one! I’ve organized my overall assessment by putting the stuff I didn’t like first so we can end on a high note. I also want to be clear that I really loved this series overall, it’s why I plowed through the audiobooks so quickly that I had to write a series review instead of an individual one for each of the six novels that make up The Renegade Star Series.

Alright, let’s rip off the band-aide and dive in. There were many parts that I wasn’t thrilled with in this series. First, the lack of details about the world was disheartening. I’m a guy who prefers all of the details, and I wasn’t given that in this series. This is a different type of book than I usually read, more pulp than anything, so some of that can generally be addressed by the fact that I’m not his ideal audience. However, I wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t mention that this was something I didn’t particularly like.

Another issue with the books was the profanity. I’m aware that the books description out a warning about the crude language. That normally bothers me, however, when you’re hooked on the fast-paced story, you want to listen every chance you get. I couldn’t do that if my kids were around, so this is more of an annoyance than anything because I went in with eyes wide open. Again, it wasn’t the profanity itself so much as the way that limited my ability to listen to the audiobooks. Luckily, this book is in the Kindle Unlimited program, and you can read it for free if you hit a patch where your rug rats won’t give you room to breathe.

I chose this book because the covers and the premise sounded entertaining, and I wasn’t disappointed. However, this book was very much a pulp novel and didn’t give me a lot to sink my teeth into. As many of you know, I’m the kind of reader that wants all the details in the novels I read. Some of this is just my own oddities, but I really like the little descriptions of the world that flush it out for me. I don’t just want to know that the character fired a blaster, I want the make and model. Again, some of this is just my preference, so this lack of detail was annoying, but not so much that I couldn’t keep reading because I obviously blazed through the series.

Another minor announcement I had was the lack of proper naval terminology. The main character calls the bulkheads walls and calls the decks a floor. I grew up in a Navy town, so hearing vessels using proper terminology always catches my attention. However, these traditions could change in the future, so this is really just nitpicking for the sake of my review.

My one major complaint about the story, aside from like details, was the character’s lack of reaction to killing. I’ve been in situations where you were required in someone else’s life, thank you Iraq, and there is always an emotional response to the action. I did not feel like the main character, Jace Hughes, ever felt remorse for the people he killed. It was just the thing he did, and then he’s callously shrugged it off. The combat veteran, this bugs me, but I’m sure most readers would never notice this.

Alright, now let’s talk about the happy things! One of the things that I liked about the series was the way characters grew as the story developed across the 13 novels. This is an area where the author grew as a creator, and it showed. I can’t really say anything else about the specific category because that would give spoilers, but trust me, it’s worth waiting for the big reveal later in the series.

Another area that struck me with this series was the audio narration. I loved this audiobook, Luke Daniels gave one of his trademarked top-notch performances. My only complaint in this arena was the way the main character socked on hard candy. However, this was more about the author’s characterization and how it translated to audiobooks, but it was about Luke’s performance. However, if especially noticeable in the morning and audiobook format. Despite that one minor complaint, this audiobook was a rollicking good adventure! Seriously, if you weren’t already hooked on Luke, this book would get you there! This was one of the many areas where this series really shined for me.

What did shine was the amazing premise of this book series. This definitely hit on all of the tropes that I love about science fiction, but not in a way that felt derivative. He carried it out in a way that somehow became uniquely his own thing. I found shades of the short-lived Firefly television show and the anime Outlaw Star that inspired it. There was also a Star Wars meets Indiana Jones element to this series, which kept you glued to the edge of your seat, waiting to see what happens next. Oh, and some of the reviewers called the series a mash-up of Andromeda and Battlestar Galactica. I agreed with them, though I didn’t see it at first. Once I read the review, the comparison was obvious!

If I haven’t said it enough, I REALLY loved the basic premise of this series. The concept of a grand adventure, trying to solve the mysteries of the universe, struck the right chord for me. It was very much. The Da Vinci Code in space, which I really liked. The fact that it was written in first person made you much more connected to the adventure, which I really appreciated. All of this combined, and you end up with a series of books that are a lot of fun to read. Seriously, it’s pulpy popcorn comfort food. Except you won’t regret eating it, because it’s calorie-free.

One of the overarching themes of the series that I enjoyed was the classic story of good versus evil. This was your typical David versus Goliath story except you had blaster since the slingshots. While the main character wasn’t quite the everyman, he was close enough that you ended up rooting for him and cheering as the bad guys get taken down a peg or two. There’s a Union officer whose face you want to smash in, but luckily Jace wants to do the same thing, and so you get a vicarious thrill of living for him. Isn’t that why we read fiction in the first place?

Oh, and I really loved the way Chaney explained his science of faster than light travel (FTL). It had just the right amount of Handwavium to keep me happy. Because of the structure of the story, he never felt let down by the lack of a more detailed explanation of how the science works. Instead, you have a character who doesn’t know and so can’t tell you. This is one of the beauties of the first-person narration done right!

Finally, I thoroughly enjoyed the more direct language that the author chose to use. It had a very Tom Clancy-esq vibe with simple words that avoided the tendency towards a pretentious use of big words, whether they were needed or not. It made it possible for Luke Daniels to give the stellar performance that he did with his narration, which I obviously loved. I know this style of writing isn’t for everyone, but it was something that I thoroughly enjoyed.

I wish I could gush more about the series, but I can’t think of ways to do this justice without giving spoilers. So… have I hinted that I enjoyed this universe yet? Good, I want it to be obvious! So, to wrap this bad boy up, I loved this series. Each one of these novels was at least 75,000 words long, about what you expect from the genre. Despite the length, each book felt like a quick read. If you didn’t know how long each novel was, you could almost imagine them as short stories. This is because they were so engrossing that the reader loses track of time while they temporarily live in the story. The author definitely made me want more from this universe, and I’ll definitely be reading the follow-on series that are already available.

In conclusion, I was hooked from the first page/minute! JN Chaney wove the action into this fun space opera romp that made me lose track of time. Basically, he had me hooked from the beginning and kept it going throughout the whole series. These are books that I would happily recommend, and an author I will definitely read again. While I don’t see myself diving more into the pulp side of the house, I don’t regret swimming in this pool of awesomesauce! Buy these novels! But hey, it’s easy to spend someone else’s money! I give these books a 5 out of 5 grenades!
Profile Image for Roxanne andujar.
22 reviews
February 10, 2020
Entwining lines

I love entwining lines. I can’t wait to see how some of the stories mesh together! I was getting irritated with how many books I had to read but finally... finally... a turning point! Ahhhhhhh🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪😍
Profile Image for Lawrence James.
90 reviews1 follower
March 25, 2020
This is what happens when a author gets lazy

This story started off so well. How it came to this boring book. Well it was boring until the last 2 chapters. This story was good until The author forgot about character development and a decent amount story arc in a timely manner so as not to lose The audience. The last 5 books have pretty much been the exact same story with minor changes. None of the old characters that made this series good are involved except a few and those do the exact same thing in every book. How many times can you talk about coffee in the same book and it not be a cook book? How many times can you give us your opinion about God in the same book and not sound like a atheist lecture? Maybe this author needs to focus on a couple of good books instead of writing so many mediocre ones?



Profile Image for Dawn.
1,672 reviews16 followers
November 22, 2021
The Alliance is trying to stay one step ahead of the Celestials. They are looking for evidence of the Celestial's evolution and/or technology that could help defeat them. They land on Elysia which is supposed to be the Celestial birthplace but ends up belonging to a precursor alien of whom the Celestials stole their technology. The alliance now has the information they need to find an ancient weapon that is said to be the key to stopping the war. Jace again shows what a great leader he is and tugged on my heartstrings while he was at it. Two more books to go to in order to find out what happens to the characters I have grown to love.
Profile Image for Frances Law.
1,123 reviews14 followers
February 12, 2020
Eternal life?

There’s much more positive action in this book! Of course, as usual, it ends just at a point where you want to go on. I am always bamboozled by these advanced beings who decide, after much musing, to help. But then the ‘help’ is never really sufficient despite their so called ‘godly’ powers. The trick, for the author, is to never give you time to think of course. Still, it’s good fun and makes for a nice way to pass a few hours. Nothing really great, unusual or ‘Wow! What a novel idea!’ Which is why it’s only 4 stars.
349 reviews4 followers
September 8, 2021
The one ring ( well ok 2nd of 3)

Following the breadcrumbs the Alliance end up at an artificial ring that has a damaged section. Something is still maintaining it's form. Further investigation may lead to the means to strengthen the shields and possibly develop more weapons. However the Celestials are on the way. the Alliance heads to a 2 nd ring system and uncover some peculiarities as the Celestials attack. The action is fast-paced, though there are moments of reflection and discussion. Has the answer to defeat the Celestials been found?
249 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2020
Very very good

I like how the story has been evolving, you can definitely see the relationship between the characters evolving into something real. The whole gods issue brought up in this book will be interesting to see how it plays out. Hopefully it won't play out with them doing everything for our hero instead of letting him reach the conclusion. We will see how it goes, but I definitely recommend reading this book.
26 reviews
February 11, 2020
One fast paced and enjoyable book!

Another terrific book in the Renegade series. The Alliance is desperately seeking weaponry to allow them to combat the Celestrials seeking to wipe out all humanity in the Galaxy. Can't wait till the next book in this series is released. A terrific series!
26 reviews
February 15, 2020
I hate...

...this words “Epilogue!!!!” What an amazing roller coaster of a series. I could not put this book down. I really wanted to pace myself and stretch it out to when the next book was close to release...but...noooo...I had to finish it. Love this book, this story...this author. FANTABOULOUS!!
19 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2020
I'm not that good at writing reviews but here goes so far I'm up to the last book until the last one comes out and I have to say that I am hooked on it it all seems real something that could happen. Badish guy comes good with the help of a woman. Brilliant read IF YOU HAVEN'T READ IT YET TRY THEM YOU WILL BE SURPRISED HOW GOOD THEY ARE
57 reviews1 follower
October 14, 2021
This fun and enlightening series kind of jumped the Shark here. From here on out you can be equality be bored by this or "The Messenger" series. They're pretty much the same from here on out.

There are more Easter eggs here, but that's about it.

Most would be better off just leaving their investment in this series with the last book.
1,477 reviews25 followers
April 6, 2022
The fight continues against the celestials . Jace and his crew of various people from different realms in the galaxy refuse to yield. Jace thinking himself dead in battle awakens to find himself face to face with the gods of legend The precursors.. Stories he heard as a child. They have agreed to help him fight the celestial. Another excellent read in this series!! Enjoyed immensely!!
Profile Image for Nigel Frankcom.
398 reviews4 followers
February 13, 2020
A good read but start with book one

Another good episode in an already strong series sees the protagonists losing and gaining ground in almost equal measure... lots of boohoos and hahas.
308 reviews4 followers
February 17, 2020
Great

These books by author Chaney keep you wanting more. The storyline keeps you riveted as the characters tackle new threats or insurmountable problems that they tackle head on knowing the fate of mankind hangs in the outcome.
Profile Image for Hans Bleeker.
71 reviews
February 21, 2020
Renegade Evolution is a superb tale!

Follow Jace and the team as they encounter and overcome one obstacle after another in their attempts to secure a safe and vibrant future for Earth!
25 reviews
March 7, 2020
The series keeps in going!

The series just keeps building and getting better. When I think it’s gonna end Chaney says no and throws in more action and twist. I love these books and have a hard time putting them down
45 reviews
April 8, 2021
Great finish

This book starts out really slow but still has a good story line to help fill in holes in the story then finishes with a lot of action and leaves you looking for the next book
Profile Image for Sharon Scialo.
20 reviews
May 4, 2021
New enemies and new friends

Great series. Another day in the galaxy. This series takes you to places you can only dream of. Gives them a name and spins a story that keeps you on edge.
Profile Image for Saul Baisley.
177 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2021
Nearing the end

Jace has his closest call with death yet. The truth behind the city in the slip gates is revealed. And humanity might just be able to win the war against the Celestials, but only if the can find someone fighting another war altogether. Things are never easy.
73 reviews
February 18, 2020
Heading into the home stretch

What a way to bring in ancient earth history to show how we could evolve. Can’t wait to Delgado involved!!
Profile Image for Kara Simpkins.
28 reviews
February 21, 2020
Another great read

This story just keeps getting better and better. A quick but good read. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
839 reviews4 followers
February 26, 2020
3 1\2 Stars

Book 14 has Jace and the Alliance going to Nidus another ringed planet build by the Precursos in hope of finding weapons to aid in the war against the Celestial's.
Profile Image for DAVID.
583 reviews5 followers
March 14, 2020
Cracking storylinr

Well once again a extremely great storyline with all the action and banter you could ask for.. Just a Damn shame got to wait till May for Renegade War lol
Profile Image for Scott.
74 reviews13 followers
March 26, 2020
A nice twist toward the end has me interested in the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,105 reviews3 followers
July 19, 2020
These are definitely interesting quick reading space opera. I like the growth of the characters in the midst of calamity.
1,037 reviews4 followers
December 22, 2020
Great read..

I really enjoyed this book and will continue to the next book in this series! I love the characters and the storyline very much!
67 reviews
October 7, 2022
Tumultuous

Amazing story telling that kept me enthralled and unable to stop reading! Action and craziness extreme. Could not put this book down period.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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