What do you think?
Rate this book
Pantheon
The Pantheon. When it absolutely, positively, has to be right now.A casual date turns into a horrific attack that leads US Air Force Captain Valerie Hall to discover she has the power of teleportation. Her military career takes a sudden kinetic turn—she isn’t the only one with Jump skills. Val is drawn into a world where teleportation meets advanced military tactics on high-stakes missions around the globe with the ultra-secret group of American military teleportation operators known to few as the Pantheon.
She learns to adapt her new-found skill to transition from administrative to a full-dress special operator—and the Pantheon must form an uneasy alliance with a band of Russian teleportation experts in order to take down a larger enemy that threatens both nations.
“You may not be interested in war, but war is interested in you.” ― Leon Trotsky
She learns to adapt her new-found skill to transition from administrative to a full-dress special operator—and the Pantheon must form an uneasy alliance with a band of Russian teleportation experts in order to take down a larger enemy that threatens both nations.
“You may not be interested in war, but war is interested in you.” ― Leon Trotsky
- GenresMilitary Fiction
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2020
18 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
K.R. Paul
3 books28 followersKR Paul blends the adrenaline of military thrillers with the gritty, magic laden drama of urban fantasy. It’s part “Justice League” and part “Mission Impossible.”
Kay pulls from her own unique background to craft stories that delve into the harsh realities of military experience. She offset it all with humor, magic, and enthralling characters sure to bring you along for the ride.
Kay was born in California but moved to North Carolina as a child. She grew up rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, and writing fan fiction like a true 90s kid. Her love of adventure (and being an adrenaline junky) took her into military service where her love of writing continued. She has written non-fiction for business, industry, academia, and leadership education. Through it all, she kept her love of writing and continued to write fiction in her free time.
Now, Kay still works her day job but writes short and novel length fiction when not being an absolute jock or absolute nerd. When not at work, her hobbies include competitive bodybuilding, video gaming, kayaking, cosplay, skydiving, and playing with lightsabers. If you find her on a stage is a toss up whether it’s for the competitive bodybuilding, displaying her latest cosplay, or being a panel member for a leadership seminar.
Her work serves up a blend of adrenaline soaked action and the vivid world of urban fantasy. She draws from her own life experiences to fuel the emotionally charged, fast paced, and occasionally outright nerdy plots found in the Pantheon series. She continues to keep adventuring across the world and through her day job, which one day she’ll have to quit.
Kay pulls from her own unique background to craft stories that delve into the harsh realities of military experience. She offset it all with humor, magic, and enthralling characters sure to bring you along for the ride.
Kay was born in California but moved to North Carolina as a child. She grew up rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, and writing fan fiction like a true 90s kid. Her love of adventure (and being an adrenaline junky) took her into military service where her love of writing continued. She has written non-fiction for business, industry, academia, and leadership education. Through it all, she kept her love of writing and continued to write fiction in her free time.
Now, Kay still works her day job but writes short and novel length fiction when not being an absolute jock or absolute nerd. When not at work, her hobbies include competitive bodybuilding, video gaming, kayaking, cosplay, skydiving, and playing with lightsabers. If you find her on a stage is a toss up whether it’s for the competitive bodybuilding, displaying her latest cosplay, or being a panel member for a leadership seminar.
Her work serves up a blend of adrenaline soaked action and the vivid world of urban fantasy. She draws from her own life experiences to fuel the emotionally charged, fast paced, and occasionally outright nerdy plots found in the Pantheon series. She continues to keep adventuring across the world and through her day job, which one day she’ll have to quit.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 12, 2020
This book is a fantastic blend of military culture and sci-fi/fantasy, with a kick-ass female lead. KR Paul crafted a character in Valerie Hall that is real and says all the things we wish we would say. Empowered by her newfound abilities, Val delves deeps into operations and crushes the missions. This book is a page-turner, with one of its very few flaws being that it ends too soon. Despite it's current length, the book could easily have gone more in depth and detail and still not felt cumbersome. This read is fun. I can't wait for the sequel, and with the author's growing talent, I am sure it will also be a hit.
December 7, 2020
K R Paul introduces in PANTHEON a new variation on the military thriller. It encompasses those features of extra sensory perception that many of us have to a varying degree, and matches them with a US military intelligence officer, Capt.Valerie Hall. Capt Hall comes from a family whose roots are in intelligence work and she saw this field as her life’s career. She never anticipated an event triggering a vast new open door to her life.
Many of us experience heightened degrees of intuition or deja vu. Something nagging, insistent at the back corners of your memory. A heightened state of awareness.The little voice that says, do this, don’t do that. Be there, avoid this place. We’ve all been there. This novel goes a step farther. Into telekinesis, teleportation.
The novel opens with Valerie Hall being attacked, dragged into a darkened alley by a date, her first date with a military officer from her base, that was going to ‘have’ her no matter what, so she could just stopped fighting it. She would love it. It is every woman’s nightmare. But Valerie Hall reacted like I, or many other women would- with a”like hell.”
She steps away from the body, a bloody mess. A damaged face, bruises on her throat, sore ribs, stunned, hunting on the ground for the dropped phone, knowing she needed to call the police. Wanting to be nowhere else but back in her apt. Suddenly she is. Did she black out? How did she get there? Did police bring her home? So many questions with no answers. She realizes she must go back to the alley. Get the police. And as before she is there. Stumbling out of the alley as the police arrive. After transportation to the hospital for treatment and filing a report, she collapses at home, in pain, nauseated. She sleeps. In the morning, she just wants to see her dad. Calls him, and finds herself suddenly in his woodworking shop. She envisioned it, then she was there.
Totally shocked, she realizes I’m awake, I was in my living room, and now I’m at Dad’s place. She thought it and it happened. It was how she first arrived home not knowing how she got there or back to the alley. She tries to explain to her father. She takes his hand, thinks living room, and they are there in her living room. Teleportation. Think of the “what if’s.” The military application. It seems someone already has.
Would you have the courage to report all this to your Air Force Commanding Officer? Or take his hand and demonstrate? It seems the police already took care of reporting the attempted rape to him already. How do you demonstrate a uniquely unbelievable skill, newly discovered, other than demonstrating it.
It seems in the highest levels of military intelligence such an event is not totally unique. She finds herself enroute to Washington DC, that afternoon, introduced into an elite group of others like her, all drawn from the military or intelligence sectors, who are “problem solvers” for unique military or political situations. They are the “Jumpers” of Limitless Logistics, Inc.
She has become the first female of this select group who carries their own specialized teams with them. You don’t worry about catching a jet overseas. SpecOps called in to work with them have merely to touch her hand or arm and she can envision the locale of where they are to transport from Point Zero. No longer Captain Hall, General Hall goes on the most enthralling and exciting “voyage”of her life.
This is a fascinating novel that lays out in detail the creation, development and training of this unique group of “Jumpers” as seen through the eyes of Valerie Hall. An intricate story of espionage, betrayal,military tactics is laid out that reveals a Russian Counterpart Assassin Team known as Svoboda, who has the exact same “jumper” abilities and the race is on as to who captures a renegade Russian General Borya first.
I loved this novel. I have a more finely tuned sense of intuition than a lot of people, as it alerts me to pending deaths of people I care about. I have a friend that sees, holds conversations of a sort with ghosts. She can walk into a room of an older building and relate the events that occurred in that room. The Russians have had it whispered for decades that they have research into teleportation and telekinesis. So I see this novel as one of great possibilities. Especially for sequels. It reminded me of Matthew Reilly’s “Scarecrow” character whom blended military capabilities with sci-fiction. Kay Paul has created a fascinating new female protagonist that ought to take thriller readers by storm, much as Chris Hauty’s Hayley Chill has in Deep State.
This is Kay’s first novel. She was mentored by Daniel Charles Ross of FORCE NO ONE, who was just admitted into the prestigious Military Writers Association. Kay serves in the military and I think the storyline reflects her deep understanding of the command structure and just how things are done the ‘military ‘way. This is an outstanding read and I rate it a 5*! I look forward to her future productions. She’s a great storyteller, especially in the “what if’s.”
Many of us experience heightened degrees of intuition or deja vu. Something nagging, insistent at the back corners of your memory. A heightened state of awareness.The little voice that says, do this, don’t do that. Be there, avoid this place. We’ve all been there. This novel goes a step farther. Into telekinesis, teleportation.
The novel opens with Valerie Hall being attacked, dragged into a darkened alley by a date, her first date with a military officer from her base, that was going to ‘have’ her no matter what, so she could just stopped fighting it. She would love it. It is every woman’s nightmare. But Valerie Hall reacted like I, or many other women would- with a”like hell.”
She steps away from the body, a bloody mess. A damaged face, bruises on her throat, sore ribs, stunned, hunting on the ground for the dropped phone, knowing she needed to call the police. Wanting to be nowhere else but back in her apt. Suddenly she is. Did she black out? How did she get there? Did police bring her home? So many questions with no answers. She realizes she must go back to the alley. Get the police. And as before she is there. Stumbling out of the alley as the police arrive. After transportation to the hospital for treatment and filing a report, she collapses at home, in pain, nauseated. She sleeps. In the morning, she just wants to see her dad. Calls him, and finds herself suddenly in his woodworking shop. She envisioned it, then she was there.
Totally shocked, she realizes I’m awake, I was in my living room, and now I’m at Dad’s place. She thought it and it happened. It was how she first arrived home not knowing how she got there or back to the alley. She tries to explain to her father. She takes his hand, thinks living room, and they are there in her living room. Teleportation. Think of the “what if’s.” The military application. It seems someone already has.
Would you have the courage to report all this to your Air Force Commanding Officer? Or take his hand and demonstrate? It seems the police already took care of reporting the attempted rape to him already. How do you demonstrate a uniquely unbelievable skill, newly discovered, other than demonstrating it.
It seems in the highest levels of military intelligence such an event is not totally unique. She finds herself enroute to Washington DC, that afternoon, introduced into an elite group of others like her, all drawn from the military or intelligence sectors, who are “problem solvers” for unique military or political situations. They are the “Jumpers” of Limitless Logistics, Inc.
She has become the first female of this select group who carries their own specialized teams with them. You don’t worry about catching a jet overseas. SpecOps called in to work with them have merely to touch her hand or arm and she can envision the locale of where they are to transport from Point Zero. No longer Captain Hall, General Hall goes on the most enthralling and exciting “voyage”of her life.
This is a fascinating novel that lays out in detail the creation, development and training of this unique group of “Jumpers” as seen through the eyes of Valerie Hall. An intricate story of espionage, betrayal,military tactics is laid out that reveals a Russian Counterpart Assassin Team known as Svoboda, who has the exact same “jumper” abilities and the race is on as to who captures a renegade Russian General Borya first.
I loved this novel. I have a more finely tuned sense of intuition than a lot of people, as it alerts me to pending deaths of people I care about. I have a friend that sees, holds conversations of a sort with ghosts. She can walk into a room of an older building and relate the events that occurred in that room. The Russians have had it whispered for decades that they have research into teleportation and telekinesis. So I see this novel as one of great possibilities. Especially for sequels. It reminded me of Matthew Reilly’s “Scarecrow” character whom blended military capabilities with sci-fiction. Kay Paul has created a fascinating new female protagonist that ought to take thriller readers by storm, much as Chris Hauty’s Hayley Chill has in Deep State.
This is Kay’s first novel. She was mentored by Daniel Charles Ross of FORCE NO ONE, who was just admitted into the prestigious Military Writers Association. Kay serves in the military and I think the storyline reflects her deep understanding of the command structure and just how things are done the ‘military ‘way. This is an outstanding read and I rate it a 5*! I look forward to her future productions. She’s a great storyteller, especially in the “what if’s.”
December 12, 2020
Pantheon: Militibus Sine Terminus is an enthralling and a successful blend of a science fiction/ fantasy and fast-paced military action thriller genres involving exciting superpowers that manifest in seemingly ordinary humans. The superpowers allow the possessors to teleport or JUMP themselves and what they choose to any location they can visualize in their mind from memory. Think of the movie Jumper with a military setting and an exciting and visualizable protagonist who grows on the readers with wonderful character development and characterization.
Pantheon introduces readers to a wonderful young lady on a date. Captain Valerie Hall is having a great time, until her date tries to assault and attack her, leading her to defend herself violently. Her trauma and lack of serious experience with violent situations unlock a dormant ability that allows her to teleport to a place of her choosing. Bringing this discovery to her supervisor’s attention in her chain of command, she is introduced to a whole another world hidden in the façade of the seemingly normal one; there are people with the ability to teleport, and these people are recruited by a secretive group operating as sanctioned by the government of the United States. Willing to serve her country by utilizing her new found abilities and wanting to get a fresh start from her trauma, she opts to become part of Pantheon. This is where the story takes off into even more intriguing pastures, starting with her intense training as a Jumper, and further with more combat-oriented tactics. Val’s journey as potentially the best jumper so far, taking part in dangerous and hard-hitting missions that pack tons of action that stay grounded with accurate weaponry despite being set in a world of people who can teleport themselves anywhere they wish. With the looming danger of a Russian General who plans on getting his hands on a nuke, an action that would pull both countries into full blown war, Val is tasked with several members of her outfit to neutralize this threat. With the possibility of a rogue jumper presenting itself, seeds of distrust and espionage intrigue set in. All elements are handled wonderfully by the author, with a keen focus on Val and her emotions that keep the narrative interesting without being filler.
The highlight of the book for me is the Jumping. It is not a concept I have come across in literature, especially not in military styled action thrillers. I was thoroughly appeased by the author’s balance of exploring the science fiction/ fantasy elements of the Jump and the real world effects of such a possible ability. With Jumping draining the Jumper’s energy, the ability was given a strong weight as a carefully measured action with dire consequences if not handled properly as opposed to a non-consequential superpower. In addition to Jumping, Val gains a few other telepathic powers and comes across a few with some unconventional but highly beneficial superpowers for someone in the agent-handling business ( keeping it a surprise for the readers). With just as strong of an emphasis on contemporary weapons (necessary descriptions and cues to imagine the weapons with ease), some not seen that frequently in thrillers such as Beretta Neo, and MK 18, the action thriller detail-oriented fan in me had zero complaints with the shootouts and combat sequences.
The story also showcases Val as a strong female character for readers as she fights off sexual assault and goes through the mental repercussions of such a vile act. The narrative gives a keen insight into her vulnerable thoughts as she tries to push away the bad thoughts and molds herself to ensure no such thing happens to her again. Her determination and might alongside her physical skills make her one of the most badass characters I have ever read. Readers see Val come out of her shell, come dangerously close to the brink of going back, and make a choice between retreating and moving forward, allowing them to cheer her on as she fights on.
I did not recognize this book as a debut; the writing felt too good to be a debut. All aspects from action, espionage, military styled narrative, romance, all the way to the awesome science-fiction/ fantasy elements are written extremely well. I enjoyed the story thoroughly, and I am confident there will be more of Valerie Hall and the world of Jumpers in the near future. A great out of the box thought out action thriller!
Pantheon introduces readers to a wonderful young lady on a date. Captain Valerie Hall is having a great time, until her date tries to assault and attack her, leading her to defend herself violently. Her trauma and lack of serious experience with violent situations unlock a dormant ability that allows her to teleport to a place of her choosing. Bringing this discovery to her supervisor’s attention in her chain of command, she is introduced to a whole another world hidden in the façade of the seemingly normal one; there are people with the ability to teleport, and these people are recruited by a secretive group operating as sanctioned by the government of the United States. Willing to serve her country by utilizing her new found abilities and wanting to get a fresh start from her trauma, she opts to become part of Pantheon. This is where the story takes off into even more intriguing pastures, starting with her intense training as a Jumper, and further with more combat-oriented tactics. Val’s journey as potentially the best jumper so far, taking part in dangerous and hard-hitting missions that pack tons of action that stay grounded with accurate weaponry despite being set in a world of people who can teleport themselves anywhere they wish. With the looming danger of a Russian General who plans on getting his hands on a nuke, an action that would pull both countries into full blown war, Val is tasked with several members of her outfit to neutralize this threat. With the possibility of a rogue jumper presenting itself, seeds of distrust and espionage intrigue set in. All elements are handled wonderfully by the author, with a keen focus on Val and her emotions that keep the narrative interesting without being filler.
The highlight of the book for me is the Jumping. It is not a concept I have come across in literature, especially not in military styled action thrillers. I was thoroughly appeased by the author’s balance of exploring the science fiction/ fantasy elements of the Jump and the real world effects of such a possible ability. With Jumping draining the Jumper’s energy, the ability was given a strong weight as a carefully measured action with dire consequences if not handled properly as opposed to a non-consequential superpower. In addition to Jumping, Val gains a few other telepathic powers and comes across a few with some unconventional but highly beneficial superpowers for someone in the agent-handling business ( keeping it a surprise for the readers). With just as strong of an emphasis on contemporary weapons (necessary descriptions and cues to imagine the weapons with ease), some not seen that frequently in thrillers such as Beretta Neo, and MK 18, the action thriller detail-oriented fan in me had zero complaints with the shootouts and combat sequences.
The story also showcases Val as a strong female character for readers as she fights off sexual assault and goes through the mental repercussions of such a vile act. The narrative gives a keen insight into her vulnerable thoughts as she tries to push away the bad thoughts and molds herself to ensure no such thing happens to her again. Her determination and might alongside her physical skills make her one of the most badass characters I have ever read. Readers see Val come out of her shell, come dangerously close to the brink of going back, and make a choice between retreating and moving forward, allowing them to cheer her on as she fights on.
I did not recognize this book as a debut; the writing felt too good to be a debut. All aspects from action, espionage, military styled narrative, romance, all the way to the awesome science-fiction/ fantasy elements are written extremely well. I enjoyed the story thoroughly, and I am confident there will be more of Valerie Hall and the world of Jumpers in the near future. A great out of the box thought out action thriller!
October 8, 2020
Best new author I've read this year. The action is non-stop, the characters are alive, the premise is unique. If you are into military-thrillers with a side of fantasy, I couldn't recommend this more. Really looking forward to a sequel.
October 7, 2020
Spectacularly good. Tore through it in just a couple days. Excited to see where the author takes things with world building.
September 1, 2021
I loved this book so much. Some chapters I had to keep reading more it was intense I couldn't go to sleep leaving it at the part...I needed answers. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Definitely a fan now totally recommend this book.
January 21, 2021
Absolutely fantastic book. Started reading it because I saw @pptsapper on my Twitter feed saying how quickly the first 20 pages had gone by, so jumped over to Amazon and immediately "Looked Inside". The opening completely draws you in, and the book just races on from there barely slowing down before the end.
Unlike many action oriented books I've read, the characters in the story are actually developed and have feelings and reactions to events. The main character, Valerie Hall, struggles with self doubt and is a complex character, and her relationships with others in the book are realistic based on how she is as a person. But that in many ways just keeps the pace of the book moving. She's very much a "get into the action" person, and never gives the reader time to breathe.
Thoroughly recommended if you like any sort of action book with just a trace of something out of the ordinary. Very much looking forward to seeing whether K.R. Paul decides to write more in this series, or more at all as I'm definitely planning on reading whatever she writes.
Unlike many action oriented books I've read, the characters in the story are actually developed and have feelings and reactions to events. The main character, Valerie Hall, struggles with self doubt and is a complex character, and her relationships with others in the book are realistic based on how she is as a person. But that in many ways just keeps the pace of the book moving. She's very much a "get into the action" person, and never gives the reader time to breathe.
Thoroughly recommended if you like any sort of action book with just a trace of something out of the ordinary. Very much looking forward to seeing whether K.R. Paul decides to write more in this series, or more at all as I'm definitely planning on reading whatever she writes.
October 10, 2020
This is another book I found impossible to put down once I started. If you are a fan of military and Sc-Fi, you need to read this book. If you like to see a military woman become stronger in both actions and words, you need to read this book. The book starts off with a bang and keeps that initial “WHAT” going until the last page. Valerie Hall is a real life type of hero, she has her faults, she gets angry, she doesn’t take stuff from the men on her team, she not only gets stronger throughout the book physically but also mentally. It was a pleasure to “watch” her grow. This is the first in a series and I cannot wait for the next, and the next.
September 25, 2020
Amazing. This book will grab you right away and won't slow down till the end, yet manages to come to a very satisfying conclusion. If you like books with good character development, fast paced action and occasional hear string tugs this book is fo you.
October 19, 2020
Delightful fresh take on the teleportation superpower. Good science backing for how it functions. Focus stays on the character and her development so the reader maintains personal investment. Looking forward to more.
July 5, 2021
Oh my gods and stars above, this is a good book!
I don't read as much science fiction or fantasy and some people, but I am a big Star Wars, Star Trek, and Douglas Adams fan. With those limited credentials, I picked up KR Paul's Pantheon with a bit of trepidation. As a military historian working in the field of national security, I read a lot for work -- and not all of that reading is fun or easy. When I run on the treadmill or ride my bike trainer, I like to use books that are a bit easier to read. I will even read footnotes while running if necessary, but generally speaking I like to have books that allow me to relax and read easily. Pantheon is just such a book. KR Paul has an easy writing style that drives the action forward quickly but without sacrificing detail.
My previous lack of attention to science fiction is probably similar to that of most people: I did not want to get involved in some wildly implausible plot that involved made-up creatures from outer space or something. But KR Paul does what every great writer does: hooks the reader with a great story and fluid writing, and makes the impossible parts seem normal. I was reminded that science fiction is, first and foremost fiction, and the best writers help the reader suspend disbelief without even realizing it.
Pantheon follows the adventures of an Air Force intelligence officer (Capt. Valerie Hall) who suddenly discovers that she has some very special physical powers. She discovers this as result of a traumatic experience, a theme that continues throughout the book. She is whisked away to a special, secret, well-funded military unit composed of people with similar powers. After a period of training, she then embarks on operational assignments.
I hesitate to say any more than that to keep from dropping spoilers, but I can say that KR Paul knows the military well, and after accepting of the premise of the book, everything else falls into place. This book is easy to read, but it is by no means shallow. This is not aliens firing space lasers at each other as the non-science fiction fan might expect -- though that might be my ignorance/bias showing again. KR Paul has created a multi-layered story that addresses several issues that have nothing to do with science fiction.
One of those issues is sexual assault, which is absolutely not science fiction. Unfortunately, it is one of the greatest internal threats facing the military today. Paul deals with it in a straightforward manner and it ends well. Cynical readers and those who have suffered sexual assault themselves might quibble with how the issue was handled, perhaps citing radically different personal experiences. The chain of command in this situation does exactly what it is supposed to do, and does so immediately. It secures the accuser from the offender and immediately launches an investigation of the circumstances without protecting the offender. The offender does have a fair and speedy trial and faces his victims. I finished reading this book on the day that the Secretary of Defense ordered that sexual assault cases would no longer be prosecuted by the uniformed military, a change I used to believe was wrong but now heartily endorse. KR Paul’s positive view of the chain of command’s actions does not whitewash what is sometimes the current reality, but rather it points to the way things should happen. Again, the cynical reader might sarcastically write this off since the work is intended to be fantasy. But KR Paul's view is aspirational, and therefore challenges the military leader/reader to force the system to work appropriately.
The heroine, Val, is able to eat anything she wants, and is in fact required to overeat because her new specialized ability automatically burns calories at a terrific rate. I'm sure the idea of losing weight and toning muscles with each mission resonates as much with women as it does with middle aged men.
All good writers infuse a bit of themselves in everything they write. KR Paul also has a blog at Author K R Paul – Military Thrillers X Urban Fantasy. After I started reading book I happened upon the blog, and it help me tease out one of the nuances that Paul weaves into the story. Once again avoiding spoilers, many readers will find the relationship between Val and her father normal and unremarkable. Some unfortunate souls will find that relationship the wildest fantasy, and might see it as the most fictional part of the book. So once again, whole story is aspirational... it describes the desired end whether or not it is realistic.
This is truly the heart of the work. Paul takes us to where we want to be... and at the risk of a spoiler, who among us does not want to be able to simply jump quickly out of a bad situation? Paul describes the world perhaps not as it is, but as it could and should be.... or at least what we might want it to be. So, how good was the book? I have already pre-ordered volume two.
I don't read as much science fiction or fantasy and some people, but I am a big Star Wars, Star Trek, and Douglas Adams fan. With those limited credentials, I picked up KR Paul's Pantheon with a bit of trepidation. As a military historian working in the field of national security, I read a lot for work -- and not all of that reading is fun or easy. When I run on the treadmill or ride my bike trainer, I like to use books that are a bit easier to read. I will even read footnotes while running if necessary, but generally speaking I like to have books that allow me to relax and read easily. Pantheon is just such a book. KR Paul has an easy writing style that drives the action forward quickly but without sacrificing detail.
My previous lack of attention to science fiction is probably similar to that of most people: I did not want to get involved in some wildly implausible plot that involved made-up creatures from outer space or something. But KR Paul does what every great writer does: hooks the reader with a great story and fluid writing, and makes the impossible parts seem normal. I was reminded that science fiction is, first and foremost fiction, and the best writers help the reader suspend disbelief without even realizing it.
Pantheon follows the adventures of an Air Force intelligence officer (Capt. Valerie Hall) who suddenly discovers that she has some very special physical powers. She discovers this as result of a traumatic experience, a theme that continues throughout the book. She is whisked away to a special, secret, well-funded military unit composed of people with similar powers. After a period of training, she then embarks on operational assignments.
I hesitate to say any more than that to keep from dropping spoilers, but I can say that KR Paul knows the military well, and after accepting of the premise of the book, everything else falls into place. This book is easy to read, but it is by no means shallow. This is not aliens firing space lasers at each other as the non-science fiction fan might expect -- though that might be my ignorance/bias showing again. KR Paul has created a multi-layered story that addresses several issues that have nothing to do with science fiction.
One of those issues is sexual assault, which is absolutely not science fiction. Unfortunately, it is one of the greatest internal threats facing the military today. Paul deals with it in a straightforward manner and it ends well. Cynical readers and those who have suffered sexual assault themselves might quibble with how the issue was handled, perhaps citing radically different personal experiences. The chain of command in this situation does exactly what it is supposed to do, and does so immediately. It secures the accuser from the offender and immediately launches an investigation of the circumstances without protecting the offender. The offender does have a fair and speedy trial and faces his victims. I finished reading this book on the day that the Secretary of Defense ordered that sexual assault cases would no longer be prosecuted by the uniformed military, a change I used to believe was wrong but now heartily endorse. KR Paul’s positive view of the chain of command’s actions does not whitewash what is sometimes the current reality, but rather it points to the way things should happen. Again, the cynical reader might sarcastically write this off since the work is intended to be fantasy. But KR Paul's view is aspirational, and therefore challenges the military leader/reader to force the system to work appropriately.
The heroine, Val, is able to eat anything she wants, and is in fact required to overeat because her new specialized ability automatically burns calories at a terrific rate. I'm sure the idea of losing weight and toning muscles with each mission resonates as much with women as it does with middle aged men.
All good writers infuse a bit of themselves in everything they write. KR Paul also has a blog at Author K R Paul – Military Thrillers X Urban Fantasy. After I started reading book I happened upon the blog, and it help me tease out one of the nuances that Paul weaves into the story. Once again avoiding spoilers, many readers will find the relationship between Val and her father normal and unremarkable. Some unfortunate souls will find that relationship the wildest fantasy, and might see it as the most fictional part of the book. So once again, whole story is aspirational... it describes the desired end whether or not it is realistic.
This is truly the heart of the work. Paul takes us to where we want to be... and at the risk of a spoiler, who among us does not want to be able to simply jump quickly out of a bad situation? Paul describes the world perhaps not as it is, but as it could and should be.... or at least what we might want it to be. So, how good was the book? I have already pre-ordered volume two.
April 10, 2021
What an exciting debut novel! Great concept, snappy dialogue, & some scenes that genuinely made me stop & have to process what I just read. It’s fast-paced fun with a lot of depth. I can’t wait to see what’s up next for Val and the rest of Red Horse!
August 3, 2021
Truly excellent! Engaging characters, relentless forward momentum. Finished it in one day.
In a moment of extreme stress and desperation, Captain Valerie Hall discovers she can teleport. She joins a tiny band of equally gifted Air Force officers who transport action teams and gear to and from their strike destinations. The officers, code named for the Norse pantheon, are rare and precious, so they’re not supposed to be put in danger on these missions. Not supposed to be in danger. Hah!
The settings and jargon are convincing and engaging. The main characters are real people, warts and all. A genuine “what if” book, done well.
Very highly recommended.
In a moment of extreme stress and desperation, Captain Valerie Hall discovers she can teleport. She joins a tiny band of equally gifted Air Force officers who transport action teams and gear to and from their strike destinations. The officers, code named for the Norse pantheon, are rare and precious, so they’re not supposed to be put in danger on these missions. Not supposed to be in danger. Hah!
The settings and jargon are convincing and engaging. The main characters are real people, warts and all. A genuine “what if” book, done well.
Very highly recommended.
June 2, 2024
A super enjoyable read with fast paced action that dives in the deep end from the first sentence. Found myself liking the characters who had depth that developed throughout the book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series to see where they go from here. Liked it so much that I got a second copy to send to my daughter.
January 4, 2021
I first came across this book through an excerpt that was published in Military Times online (either from an email or on FB). I was intrigued enough to click over and order the book from Amazon.
It's the author's first book - and that seemed to show a bit. There were places where it felt just a touch (but only a touch) forced or uneven, there were several obvious typos in the book (fault the editor there...), and I felt like the research could have been a little more solid/accurate and made the characters and their story more 'real' (although in fairness, several of the background issues/topics discussed in the book were in my professional wheelhouse, making it easier to perhaps be overly critical).
However, despite those relatively minor criticisms, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I was wrestling between giving it three and four stars - and two things pushed me towards that fourth star....
First, and most importantly, in the same way the Military Times excerpt intrigued me enough to order the book, the book itself sucked me in. I devoured it in less than 24 hours. That's the tell for me. It had an interesting and somewhat unique premise/story line, was well-paced, and had interesting characters...the things you look for. Whatever the "it" is that makes a book hard to put down, this one had it....
Second, when he protagonist wanted to put on comfortable clothes and recover following some particularly tough action, she reached for her oversized Appalachian State sweatshirt. (Hey, gotta love a Mountaineer fan.) That alone is worth the extra star... :)
Seriously, though - I understand that the author has submitted the sequal to the publisher and it is due out later this year. The story line and characters certainly provide plenty of fodder for a good follow-up. I enjoyed this one enough that I'll be on the lookout - and I look forward to reading more about the Pantheon.
It's the author's first book - and that seemed to show a bit. There were places where it felt just a touch (but only a touch) forced or uneven, there were several obvious typos in the book (fault the editor there...), and I felt like the research could have been a little more solid/accurate and made the characters and their story more 'real' (although in fairness, several of the background issues/topics discussed in the book were in my professional wheelhouse, making it easier to perhaps be overly critical).
However, despite those relatively minor criticisms, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I was wrestling between giving it three and four stars - and two things pushed me towards that fourth star....
First, and most importantly, in the same way the Military Times excerpt intrigued me enough to order the book, the book itself sucked me in. I devoured it in less than 24 hours. That's the tell for me. It had an interesting and somewhat unique premise/story line, was well-paced, and had interesting characters...the things you look for. Whatever the "it" is that makes a book hard to put down, this one had it....
Second, when he protagonist wanted to put on comfortable clothes and recover following some particularly tough action, she reached for her oversized Appalachian State sweatshirt. (Hey, gotta love a Mountaineer fan.) That alone is worth the extra star... :)
Seriously, though - I understand that the author has submitted the sequal to the publisher and it is due out later this year. The story line and characters certainly provide plenty of fodder for a good follow-up. I enjoyed this one enough that I'll be on the lookout - and I look forward to reading more about the Pantheon.
May 9, 2021
KR Paul’s Pantheon is a gem of a first book from a promising new author. It is pure entertainment, fast-paced, and introduces a new kind of heroine with a unique skill set. The story centers around Air Force Officer Valerie Hall, whose ability to teleport is triggered by an assault and near-rape by another officer. When she demonstrates this newfound ability to her commanding officer, she is immediately reassigned to a secret and highly specialized unit of teleporters that is tasked with rapid insertion and extraction of special operators across the globe. The formerly reserved and slightly pudgy Valerie blossoms into a strong, kick-ass heroine who is able to hold her own in the type of military thriller most commonly inhabited by men. In this first book, author KR Paul has skillfully crafted the beginning of a new series with endless possibilities for Valerie and the Pantheon unit. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
April 29, 2021
It’s a woman super hero, without beating you over the head about it and making you feel less than. Highly recommend and eagerly awaiting the sequel.
July 18, 2021
Really enjoyed this book and will read others in the series.
April 24, 2021
A really good read well written with plenty of grit a strong engaging character and enough action. Loved it. Good job. Don't miss out if you like this kinda genre then this is right up your street
January 27, 2021
A fun military espionage story about a young Air Force officer who discovers she has superpowers, and that she's not the only one. She must fight to earn the trust of her new comrades even as she works to master her abilities and deal with emotional scars both fresh and old.
July 6, 2021
I am writing this as I was given a free copy by the author and her publisher to read and review for a honest review. It is the first in a series and I really did not expect to like this book (thought it may be a little too over the top and weak storyline), but it really couldn't be the opposite .... I couldn't put it down and read through the night to finish it and can't wait for the next book to come out!
It's a fresh fusion, sort of military thriller crossed with urban fantasy mixed in with a bit of super hero's from what I have read in the past in the fact in it was about time jumpers with a military focus. The story was centred on a female lead Valerie Hall, telling the story of her induction into a secret military group that have the power to teleport. It had the tendency to maybe drop a few gears in places but it made up for it and from an incredible start you wouldn't expect but gets explained before the book finishes to the very finish.
It had you captured wanting to read more to find out what was going to happen, how it would all end and with lots of twists, turns and intrigue. The lead character was feisty, courageous, a natural leader, brave and yet showed vulnerability and you just had to get behind her throughout the story. You see how she develops and blossoms. There is a love interest and you get to see his character and how he changes from working with her and of course you have to wait to see if there is a HEA and there are alpha males and villains that Valerie has to navigate in her own ballsy, rebellious way. You start to get to know their characters and a little of they're story with all of this is going on in the background of the central theme it is really full on and incredibly fast paced but gives the story depth.
A absolute must read is you like a thriller and sci-fi or paranormal.
It's a fresh fusion, sort of military thriller crossed with urban fantasy mixed in with a bit of super hero's from what I have read in the past in the fact in it was about time jumpers with a military focus. The story was centred on a female lead Valerie Hall, telling the story of her induction into a secret military group that have the power to teleport. It had the tendency to maybe drop a few gears in places but it made up for it and from an incredible start you wouldn't expect but gets explained before the book finishes to the very finish.
It had you captured wanting to read more to find out what was going to happen, how it would all end and with lots of twists, turns and intrigue. The lead character was feisty, courageous, a natural leader, brave and yet showed vulnerability and you just had to get behind her throughout the story. You see how she develops and blossoms. There is a love interest and you get to see his character and how he changes from working with her and of course you have to wait to see if there is a HEA and there are alpha males and villains that Valerie has to navigate in her own ballsy, rebellious way. You start to get to know their characters and a little of they're story with all of this is going on in the background of the central theme it is really full on and incredibly fast paced but gives the story depth.
A absolute must read is you like a thriller and sci-fi or paranormal.
April 1, 2021
Loved every minute. Fantastic storyline. Couldn't put it down! Can't wait for the sequel!
March 19, 2021
What a read? A suspense right from the start, with a hint of mystery and romance thrown in. Enjoyed this book, and will be recommending it to others in the book club in our small town.
October 22, 2020
Paul knocks it out of the park in her first novel in what will hopefully be a long series! She skillfully weaves sci-fi, thriller, military, and espionage together to make you keep turning the pages. The opening draws you right in and then the unexpected happens almost immediately. If you want an excellent read from someone who is familiar with many of the areas she’s writing about, check Pantheon out!
February 23, 2021
A riveting female led military thriller.
Captain Valerie Hall was out on a date for the first time in several years but little did she expect it to turn into a terrifying nightmare. The experience led her to the unforeseen discovery of a skill that she possessed- the ability to teleport. The discovery awarded her with the access to Pantheon, an affiliation of the US military with people possessing similar ability, something that her wildest imagination would have failed to process a day prior to the incident. Her world went upside down, and the new life showed up at her doorsteps with its own pros and cons. Despite the humongous turn, Valerie was determined to put forward what it took to defend and serve her motherland.
The sizeable story takes you on an enthralling journey in the shoes of a strong and bold female protagonist. An urban fantasy with a military theme is not something that you see on a regular basis, and the author here has done an excellent job in stealing the reader's attention with an unique concept.
The amount of research and effort the book demanded is pretty visible. A brilliant job was done with the characterization of the protagonist. She is neither dumb nor the definition of perfection. The balance in her character is sure to make her relatable to many readers.
I noticed a minor typo in a dialogue where the author put an extra 'you'. Other than that, it seemed that Russia has been represented as total junk, and stuff like this can often prove to be detrimental to a story. As long as it's pure fiction, maintaining balance is important. I feel that it would be better if at least some good sides are portrayed in this case.
Undoubtedly an amazing piece of work. It definitely deserves a shot.
(I received a copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
Captain Valerie Hall was out on a date for the first time in several years but little did she expect it to turn into a terrifying nightmare. The experience led her to the unforeseen discovery of a skill that she possessed- the ability to teleport. The discovery awarded her with the access to Pantheon, an affiliation of the US military with people possessing similar ability, something that her wildest imagination would have failed to process a day prior to the incident. Her world went upside down, and the new life showed up at her doorsteps with its own pros and cons. Despite the humongous turn, Valerie was determined to put forward what it took to defend and serve her motherland.
The sizeable story takes you on an enthralling journey in the shoes of a strong and bold female protagonist. An urban fantasy with a military theme is not something that you see on a regular basis, and the author here has done an excellent job in stealing the reader's attention with an unique concept.
The amount of research and effort the book demanded is pretty visible. A brilliant job was done with the characterization of the protagonist. She is neither dumb nor the definition of perfection. The balance in her character is sure to make her relatable to many readers.
I noticed a minor typo in a dialogue where the author put an extra 'you'. Other than that, it seemed that Russia has been represented as total junk, and stuff like this can often prove to be detrimental to a story. As long as it's pure fiction, maintaining balance is important. I feel that it would be better if at least some good sides are portrayed in this case.
Undoubtedly an amazing piece of work. It definitely deserves a shot.
(I received a copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
March 5, 2021
A free book from Voracious Readers thank you
Fast paced with great characters. A well written story based around American/Russian relationships with a great twist.
Highly recommended read for fans of this genre
Fast paced with great characters. A well written story based around American/Russian relationships with a great twist.
Highly recommended read for fans of this genre
March 1, 2021
Initially I was skeptical about this book, as the phrasing/language in the earlier chapters was somewhat awkward - but I ought to have had more confidence. Val Hall as the central character with exceptional strength and courage, vulnerability and sensitivity is tremendous. I enjoyed the speed and pace of the later chapters, and found my afternoon consumed with Pantheon and it's herculean tasks. I'm looking forward to the sequel, and very much hope it won't be long.
*This book was provided by voracious readers in pdf format to allow reading/reviewing.
*This book was provided by voracious readers in pdf format to allow reading/reviewing.
June 8, 2021
Carter Nelson
4.0 out of 5 stars
. I cant wait for the next one!
This is an awesome story. I started it and couldnt put it down. This book is a combination of military action and science fiction. Strong well developed characters that have real issues that are worked thru. I cant wait for the next
4.0 out of 5 stars
. I cant wait for the next one!
This is an awesome story. I started it and couldnt put it down. This book is a combination of military action and science fiction. Strong well developed characters that have real issues that are worked thru. I cant wait for the next
September 3, 2025
Pantheon is the perfect mix of wonder and reality. The book flows through very nicely and feels as if we are experiencing the events right alongside Val. Perfect for anyone who loves realistic superhero vibes. 10/10 recommend.
August 27, 2025
I'm not someone who typically reads military-style books, but I really enjoyed this one. The premise was fun, and it was executed very well.
The description of the powers and upkeep was interesting and well integrated, and I enjoyed the realistic dynamics between characters. I also thought the approach to trauma and the lingering effects of assault was well done.
I read the majority of this book in 3 hours because I just didn't want to put it down. Highly recommend for realistic "superhero" vibes, and an easy, action-packed read.
The description of the powers and upkeep was interesting and well integrated, and I enjoyed the realistic dynamics between characters. I also thought the approach to trauma and the lingering effects of assault was well done.
I read the majority of this book in 3 hours because I just didn't want to put it down. Highly recommend for realistic "superhero" vibes, and an easy, action-packed read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews