Book 8 see the Gladius trying to come to grips with the state of the Galactic Republic, as the galaxy is still reeling from the destruction of Capriana Prime, but now a new power has emerged as So-Elku has created the new “Luma Alliance of Worlds”. Whilst they talk a very peaceful rhetoric, their actions leave a lot to be desired, as they move through the galaxy, co-opting systems with strong arm tactics, or just down right force. The “LAW” as they have come to be known move quickly to capitalise on the shattered Republic, trying to bring systems into their fold whilst the remnants of the Republic are still trying to come to terms with everything that has happened.
In the midst of this, the Gladio Umbra have gone to the Sekmit homeworld to try and find some much needed rest. But Ni Freya asked for their help in return for their stay on Aluross. As a result, at the end of book 7, the Gladius went to the Governors house on Sekmit to retrieve some information, but instead, came across some incredibly powerful Unity users operating for So-Elku. In the ensuing battle, Governor Littleton was killed, as were several others and the Gladio Umbra had their first real run in with the LAWs new Unity Soldiers.
At the start of Book 8, it has become apparent that So-Elku is moving against all of the Trinium deposits in the galaxy, making sure that he can secure this vital resource for his own ships, and to put a stranglehold on all future supplies for transportation across the galaxy. It is here that we learn one of the largest of such deposits has been kept secret on Aluross. However, Littleton new about it, which was why So-Elku’s forces raided his property, and they now have the information.
As the story builds, it becomes obvious, that So-Elku intends to take the Sekmit’s Trinium, either by them surrendering it (which they have no intention of doing), or by taking it by force. And so begins a full scale preparation to defend Aluross against such an attack. This provides for a strategical and tactical look at how such a military operation will be carried out, as the Gladii and the Sekmit prepare, but it also provides for a multitude of humorous moments in language and cultural breakdowns. The Sekmit are incredibly literal, much like the Jujari, and whilst they seem to understand each other, it makes for some highly amusing conversational moments between Magnus and his team and the Sekmit forces, as well as the two AI – Azelon and TO-96.
It adds some levity to a series that can at times get almost oppressive in the constant conflict, loss of life, and decimation that occurs around (and to) the main characters. It’s the moments of levity that make this series a standout amongst others and stop it spiraling.
Without giving too much away, the focus of Quantum Assault becomes largely about the defence of the Sekmit homeworld and their Trinium. But there are also several political ramifications to this decision that become apparent as the book unfolds. As with the other books, there is not just a military sci-fi story, but there is also a strong political thriller aspect to the story, as we see the fall of the Galactic Republic, the remnants of that Republic trying to survive and protect its people, as well as several other parties vying for control for power.
In the middle of all of it, not only enjoying the chaos, but looking to add more and destroy everything, is Moldark. He has found a new ally, the Obscura, and with them, he may well have found the answers to several of his problems.
As with the other books in this series, the character work continues to be outstanding, as we see our two main characters Awen and Magnus, along with the multitude of other ‘semi-major’ characters (too many to list), all continue to grow and evolve. Magnus is still struggling with his position, both in the Gladius, but also his new role in the galaxy as no longer being a Repub Marine, but rather his own person, and someone who is very much in love. Awen is very similar, no longer a ‘Luma’, instead, a Gladii, but of the Unity variety, her own person as well, and in love with Magnus. Separately, they are incredibly powerful, together, they are nigh on unstoppable. There is also little Piper, who may well yet hold the galaxy in her hands.
Quantum Assault is the penultimate book in the series, and this is a brilliant lead up to the final story for the climatic end to what has been an exceptional read. This is a must read for anyone who has not only enjoyed the previous books, but has enjoyed any of Hopper’s or Chaney’s books.