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Galaxy's Edge #0.5

Tin Man: A Galaxy's Edge Prequel

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The Heart of a Hero

In the wilds of a jungle planet, the Legion fights in brutal combat as Republic marines fly their SLICS from one tragedy to the next.

H292, a repurposed warbot, shows the heart of a hero as he wades into the battle not to destroy—but to save.



RUNNING TIME ⇒ 52minins.

©2018 Jason Anspach and Nick Cole (P)2020 Podium Publishing

1 pages, Audible Audio

First published November 20, 2017

12 people are currently reading
478 people want to read

About the author

Jason Anspach

187 books842 followers
JASON ANSPACH is the author of Galaxy's Edge, Wayward Galaxy, Forgotten Ruin. and more.

He lives in Puyallup, WA with his wife and their seven (not a typo) children.

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5 stars
560 (46%)
4 stars
412 (34%)
3 stars
185 (15%)
2 stars
36 (3%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
Profile Image for Montzalee Wittmann.
5,214 reviews2,340 followers
April 15, 2020
Tin Man: A Galaxy's Edge Prequel
By: Jason Anspach, Nick Cole
Narrated by: R.C. Bray
Series: Galaxy's Edge Series, Book 0.5
This is a short prequel to Galaxy Edge. I love the prequel and if the books are anything like this, I can't wait to read them! This was wonderful! A tender hearted war bot! Almost had me crying, got a little misty eyed! If course the narration was perfect with RC Bray as narrator! Well done!
2,513 reviews6 followers
December 1, 2017
This is one of the most touching war stories I have ever read. The war bot, H292, achieves something incredible. This is a must read short story!
I received a pre-publication eARC with no strings attached.
Profile Image for Don Smart.
5 reviews2 followers
December 1, 2017
The title gives it away, the Tinman found his heart. His dealing with PTSD is interesting, and provides a feel good ending. You can read as a stand alone or with the other books, it's worth your time. I hope the Mr. Anspach in the future considers that our experiences make us who we are and H292's pain was not to his detriment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for PJ Lea.
1,064 reviews
December 1, 2017
H292 is featured in the Galaxy's Edge series and getting to read his back story was a treat.
To put it bluntly this book is amazing, bringing emotion to a war bot is a rare feat and I loved his tale. A must-read.
Profile Image for Carol.
314 reviews5 followers
November 24, 2017
What a great story. The tinman found his heart 😍
Profile Image for Eric.
179 reviews67 followers
December 22, 2021
Great quick story that fleshed out the backstory of a favorite character from the series. It was brief but the ending was impactful.
5 reviews
November 29, 2017
Really good book. All the Galaxy on Fire books have page turning, good value books. But Tin Man was a great background book.

Read this one, you can read as a stand alone or in conjunction with the other books. Either way it is worth your time and money
Profile Image for Ronie Reads.
1,558 reviews28 followers
December 10, 2023
Someone knows the the military life of Mr. Rogers. Well at least a section.
Profile Image for J.R. Handley.
Author 53 books261 followers
December 29, 2017
Summary:
First, let me say that this story will be harder for me to keep spoiler free, but I’ll try. Unlike my normal book reads, this time the blurb didn’t draw me in. I received this for free because I’m on the Galaxy’s Edge mailing list. I didn’t even read the blurb, I saw the cover and dove right in. If you want to receive your own copy, click the link! In this story, we follow H292, a repurposed warbot, on his last mission. We get to watch his AI mature, showing the heart of a hero as he wades into the battle not to destroy—but to save. Fighting in the wilds of a jungle planet, the Legion fights in brutal combat as Republic marines fly their SLICS from one tragedy to the next. Only the bravery and self-sacrifice of this fully realized machine can turn the tides.


Characters:
In this short story, there are two main characters; H292 and Captain Reese. Both of these characters were flushed out, more than you’d expect in a story that’s only 60 pages long. There isn’t a lot of growth from Reese, instead of leaving you with a desire to know more about him. When we revisit H292 years later, we find him struggling with the loss of the troops he couldn’t save, humanizing the war machine.
H292: This is a war bot brought back online to fight with his legion brothers, first as a medivac pilot, and then as a one-man army. When space to pull out more wounded troops was needed on the medivac, he volunteers to stay behind. Despite the risks, he was willing to sacrifice his own existence.
Captain Reese: He is a Marine medivac pilot, trying to use his piloting skills to save the lives of the legionnaires fighting against the Doro in the Aachon Valley, an inhospitable landscape
There was a lot of room for growth with these characters, but the limits of a short story didn’t allow for it. In all fairness, this is why I tend not to read shorter fiction. But despite that, I loved these characters and want more of them! Overall, I give this character 5 out of 5 Grenades.


Plot:
This story was action-packed and kept you turning the pages. I read it in one sitting, and I honestly couldn’t put it down. It was easy to follow and is set before the events of the main series so you could read it as a stand-alone adventure tale. I got even more from it because I’ve read the first three novels in the main series, but it wasn’t required to love this story. Overall, there weren’t any parts of the plot that didn’t work for me. I wanted to know why the legion needs to fight on the planet, instead of bombarding it from orbit, but it is addressed by one of the main characters. While we don’t know the backdrop of this campaign, we know it wasn’t left out as an oversite by the authors. My overall review of this story is definitely slanted towards my preference for longer works, but I give the plot a 4 out of 5 Grenades. If it had had more time to explore all the unanswered questions, I would give it a 5!


World Building:
This is a standalone short story and told the story of a war bot and a marine medivac pilot. While the scope of the plot was limited, the world was very flushed out. The setting struck me as an analog for the conflict in Vietnam, but not in the trite way we often find in literature. This story works within the scope of the larger world, but it doesn’t stand in the shadow of it either. This story stands alone, a fully realized universe in its own right. The authors balanced the micro with the macro for this world creation and did it well. They put together a compelling landscape, which served as a backdrop for this story. I give the world building 5 out of 5 Grenades.


Description:
The descriptions for this story were compelling enough to keep you reading, though limited by the scope of the adventure. I believe I was able to envision it very well, despite this because I have read the main series. I loved the chaos they described in the jungles and could envision the Doro, or Dobies, that the Legion was fighting. It was also fun seeing this world through the eyes of supporting services and machines, instead of only via the buckets of a legionnaire. I give Anspach/Cole 5 out of 5 Grenades in this category!


Overall:
I loved this story, and the only complaint I had was that it was too short. There wasn’t enough of these characters, and I wanted more. I’ve become addicted to my #leejcrack, and I need more! This was the equivalent of going to the bar, and being served near-beer instead. It was good, but what a tease! The story was action-packed, with plenty of visceral combat scenes to love but it could’ve been the next big thing if they’d kept going! They got the military vibe down, and the chaos of combat. I was honestly surprised when I heard that Nick Cole’s time in the Army didn’t include combat. He faked it well, and the audience benefits from that ability with a glimpse into the lives of our combat veterans. He got the tactics down, at least you assume he did since we saw a narrow view of the action, instead of the bigger picture. He addressed the one glaring issue, so I’m satisfied that it was a plot decision and not an oversight. And in case you were unclear, I judge the tactics on how they fit in the world the author created, and nothing else. Again, my one complaint was that I wanted more! I wanted this story to be longer, and to find out what happened to them all. I definitely recommend that you join the mailing list and check out this mini-thriller! It’s worth your time, and I say that knowing how precious that commodity is. I give this a solid 4 out of 5 Grenades!
Profile Image for Todd Condit.
Author 6 books31 followers
December 10, 2021
Cool little story. Makes me want to explore the rest of these books in this universe.
Profile Image for Heinz Reinhardt.
346 reviews48 followers
April 14, 2024
Very touching backstory for KRS-88 from the second book in Season 1. Written by vets, it has a remarkably realistic real-world military feel to it.
Great little story.
3 reviews
December 9, 2017
This mil-SF features soldiers that are not the Stormtroopers you're looking for. It also stars a war machine that carries out its task, and understands what it means to feel for the soldiers it ends up protecting. Tin Man, indeed.
Profile Image for Hazel.
1,179 reviews1 follower
December 2, 2017
This was a terrific read. I haven't read a story that made me cry for a hunk of metal before !
Then again this is no ordinary hunk of metal. In fact he is more human than many flesh and blood humans.
I would def. like to see where his next adventure takes him.
173 reviews
December 14, 2017
It's a short, but so perfect. It's supposed to be in a Vietnam-esque conflict (the Legion can never catch a break). I appreciated the POV of the non legionnaire SLIC driver and the new co-pilot that he did not want. I don't want to give any more detail, but if you've read the rest of the Galaxy's Edge books, you want to read this one.
Profile Image for Christian.
88 reviews5 followers
December 2, 2017
Loved it. A perfect short story introduction to Jason Anspach and Nick Cole's #StarWarsNotStarWars Galaxy's Edge universe.
Profile Image for Alex Shrugged.
2,753 reviews30 followers
March 23, 2023
An inspiring military narrative, I was really caught up in the battle. That is why this short story got 5 stars. I normally don't like short stories but I really loved this one.

The story: A war bot has been repurposed as a copilot. As the pilot goes from rescue mission to rescue mission he explains to the warbot why he is doing what he is doing. The warbot seems to understand and applies himself to saving others. He does a magnificent job.

I will probably listen to this audiobook short story again.
Profile Image for Chase.
146 reviews3 followers
March 14, 2023
I love these books! A super quick audiobook that I really enjoyed, love a good robot tale!
Profile Image for John Davies.
606 reviews15 followers
January 27, 2018
Tin Man is a prequel story, that is the history of KRS88. He's the robot that's assigned to protect Primsa in Attack of Shadows.

In this story, it's assigned to co-pilot a Medevac dropship for a jungle campaign (yup, it's Vietnam Battle of the A Shau and I Drang valleys combined) The dropship he's in can only take so many wounded, so the robot climbs out so three more Republic Marines can be evac'd. Over the next 12 hours, it roams the base, saving many Marines by locating them in the dark, killing the enemy and leading them to relative safety.

In doing so, it gets recommended for the highest Military medal the Republic has, but it's politically wrong to give a medal to a robot, so it's denied. Many years later, the Republic finally gives in and awards the medal, and the offer to grant one wish to the robot (who has been retired as out-of-date). It's wish is to be memory wiped, but for it's name to remember the 88 Marines it could not save.

Jason and Nick have written an excellent story that shows the horror and bravery that war brings, and given a robot a degree of humanity lacking even in some real humans. I love this series, and always look forward to the next book, because they get better with each one.
Profile Image for David Lies.
65 reviews1 follower
January 28, 2021
As the the outpost on the jungle planet is being shelled the republic marines load up a SLIC with an HK co-pilot droid referred to as Tin Man by the pilot. Designation H292 becomes a hero not only saving soldiers on the field but then also staying behind at the outpost to rescue more soldiers. This short tale of a heroic robot was a great short Prequel to the Galaxy’s Edge Series.
4,476 reviews21 followers
December 17, 2017
What a cool little story. Full of action and fighting it was a nice view of how the bot nicknamed Tin man helped save a bunch of legionnaires in a bloody conflict on a distant world. Good job of giving humanity to a war bot.
Profile Image for L.B. Sisk.
Author 8 books15 followers
January 28, 2018
One of the things that drives me crazy is the attitude toward droids in a "Certain" Space Opera (that I love and will forever love). In that one, a droid, which has probably saved the Rebellion and, in the past, a princess' mother a couple hundred times, is stored under a f**king dusty, oily tarp because his master has decided to runaway and didn't take him with him...

Hmm ... okay ... I might have been reviewing the wrong story there...

Anyhoo, I enjoyed how Tin Man--and the Galaxy's Edge books in general--tackle this issue. Like in my other favorite universe, Droids are tools here too, but are they really self aware, or are they programmed to simply act that way? And, if it's only programming, how can they be considered heroes? Well, after reading this story, I actually teared up a little...
Profile Image for Marina Gaston.
144 reviews
August 15, 2021
I could see this being a full length novel. Forget Nothing and this little gem were my introduction to the GE universe and I am definitely going to read the series. Tin Man started off as just another space military story but it quickly turned and hit me in the feels. Looking forward to meeting the rest of the cast.
Profile Image for Kiba Snowpaw.
Author 2 books24 followers
September 22, 2023
Introduction: Greetings, fellow beings of HowlStrom. I am Kiba Snowpaw, an alpha male Ice Wolf with the power of ice magic. I have ventured far from our icy realm to share my thoughts on a tale from another galaxy, a tale that resonates with the cold, yet passionate heart of an Ice Wolf.

Basic Plot Summary: Set in the vast expanse of a jungle planet, the Republic's marines are engaged in fierce combat, flying their SLICs from one tragedy to another. Amidst this chaos, a repurposed warbot named H292 emerges as an unlikely hero. Instead of wreaking havoc, this warbot shows a heart of gold, diving into the battle not to destroy, but to save.

Analysis/Evaluation: This audiobook, though short, is a testament to the power of storytelling. It challenges the boundaries of emotion, making one question the very nature of life and consciousness. Can a machine, designed for war, possess a heart? Can it feel, empathize, and sacrifice? These are the profound questions that this story raises.

Characters: H292, the warbot, is the star of this tale. Its journey from a mere machine to a being that showcases heroism is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The marines and their struggles provide a backdrop that highlights the warbot's actions, making its heroism stand out even more.

Structure: The narrative is well-paced, ensuring that every moment is filled with tension, emotion, and depth. Despite its short length, it manages to convey a complete and impactful story.

Impact: This story left an indelible mark on my icy heart. It serves as a reminder that heroism and compassion can be found in the most unexpected places, even in a machine designed for war.

Hook and Thesis: The allure of this tale lies in its ability to challenge our perceptions. It hooks the listener with its intense combat scenes and keeps them engaged with its deeper philosophical questions.

Praise and Critique: The authors, Jason Anspach and Nick Cole, have crafted a masterpiece. Their portrayal of H292 is both touching and profound. R.C. Bray's narration adds another layer of depth, bringing the characters and the world to life. My only critique would be its length. I yearned for more, to dive deeper into this world and its characters.

Comparison: This tale stands out in the vast expanse of space operas. While many stories focus on grand battles and intergalactic politics, this one zooms in on the journey of a single warbot, making it both unique and memorable.

Conclusion: In the cold world of HowlStrom, where the winter season stretches for a hundred years, tales of warmth and heroism are cherished. "Tin Man: A Galaxy's Edge Prequel" is one such tale. It serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of light. I, Kiba Snowpaw, recommend this audiobook to all, whether you're a seasoned space traveler or a newbie just venturing into the galaxy. Let the heart of this hero warm your soul.
Profile Image for Benjamin Espen.
269 reviews25 followers
February 17, 2018
The Order of the Centurion is the highest award that can be bestowed upon an individual serving in, or with, the Legion. When such an individual displays exceptional valor in action against an enemy force, and uncommon loyalty and devotion to the Legion and its legionnaires, refusing to abandon post, mission, or brothers, even unto death, the Legion dutifully recognizes such courage with this award.


This is a short story set in Jason Anspach and Nick Cole's Galaxy's Edge universe. I never imagined a Vietnam-inspired story about a re-purposed war bot could make me cry.

Tin Man reminds me of the stories told by my 4th, 5th, and 6th grade teacher, Dale Shewalter. He was a Marine to the end, felled by a cancer that he blamed on Agent Orange. He volunteered for Vietnam, along with his brother. It also reminds me of We Were Soldiers Once...And Young. Ed Freeman and Bruce Crandall flew their unarmed UH-1 Hueys into the Ia Drang valley to deliver supplies and medevac the wounded, even after the actual medevac pilots refused to go. They kept going even after several helicopters they flew had been shot up too badly to take off again. They both earned the Medal of Honor for that stubborn refusal to give up.

Tin Man is also about a stubborn refusal to give up, a refusal to abandon his post, or his brothers, from an entirely unexpected source.

"I see no one," rumbled the bot.
"He's coming. Over there. Collecting the dead. Hold my hands up, please. I'm ready now. I'm ready like Mama said I should be. Please...hold them up for me."
The war bot did as requested. Delicately.
Corporal Wash expired a few minutes later.


I love this series, but if you don't know if you'll like it, you should check this one out. It is free.

Yes, free. I can't believe these guys give this stuff away. If you want it, head over to GalaticOutlaws.com and sign-up for their newsletter. I don't have any relationship with Jason and Nick, other than liking their books, so all I get out of this is the satisfaction of introducing people to something new.
Profile Image for Monique.
207 reviews
March 9, 2021
This novelette follows H292 and Captain Reese as they are forced to work together. Captain Reese carries old emotional baggage and prejudices that he must overcome to effficently work with the bot H292.

Tin Man was a good story with plenty of action and suspense. The world building was a little light and as such the plot felt more like a Vietnam battle than a sci-Fi battle in the future against aliens. The characters were amazing and it was great to see Captain Reese change as he grows to care for H292, even though he fights it.

Overall a good novelette that I suggest to fans of the series. It can be obtained for free from the authors website. I would suggest it be read after Legionnaire as the reader will get more of the backstory and therefore enjoy the story better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews

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