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Earth at War #2
Primary Targets
Old Marines never die... they just become Space Marines
I thought the hard part of helping the Helta defeat the rampaging Tevynians would be the fighting. How wrong I was.
To the Helta, we Earthers look just like the Tevynians, their mortal enemies. And convincing their government to ally with humans may be even beyond the crew of the starship James Bowie.
But the clock is ticking, because the Tevynian fleet is bearing down on the Helta homeworld. If we can’t talk the Helta into accepting our help to fight them off, then Helta Prime will fall…
And Earth will be next.
I thought the hard part of helping the Helta defeat the rampaging Tevynians would be the fighting. How wrong I was.
To the Helta, we Earthers look just like the Tevynians, their mortal enemies. And convincing their government to ally with humans may be even beyond the crew of the starship James Bowie.
But the clock is ticking, because the Tevynian fleet is bearing down on the Helta homeworld. If we can’t talk the Helta into accepting our help to fight them off, then Helta Prime will fall…
And Earth will be next.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2020
535 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Rick Partlow
212 books373 followersRick Partlow is that rarest of species, a native Floridian. Born in Tampa, he attended Florida Southern College and graduated with a degree in History and a commission in the US Army as an Infantry officer.
His lifelong love of science fiction began with Have Space Suit---Will Travel and the other Heinlein juveniles and traveled through Clifford Simak, Asimov, Clarke and on to William Gibson, Walter Jon Williams and Peter F Hamilton. And somewhere, submerged in the worlds of others, Rick began to create his own worlds.
He has written over 70 books in over a dozen different series, and his short stories have been included in many different anthologies.
He currently lives in norther Wyoming with his wife and their dog. Besides writing and reading science fiction and fantasy, he enjoys outdoor photography, hiking and camping.
His lifelong love of science fiction began with Have Space Suit---Will Travel and the other Heinlein juveniles and traveled through Clifford Simak, Asimov, Clarke and on to William Gibson, Walter Jon Williams and Peter F Hamilton. And somewhere, submerged in the worlds of others, Rick began to create his own worlds.
He has written over 70 books in over a dozen different series, and his short stories have been included in many different anthologies.
He currently lives in norther Wyoming with his wife and their dog. Besides writing and reading science fiction and fantasy, he enjoys outdoor photography, hiking and camping.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 12, 2021
The first thing that struck me during the fist few chapters was, ‘has the author forgotten what he wrote in the previous book’? Andy keeps saying “this is the first time” he has done something, but he did all these things during the ’Rescue Mission’ in the first book.
The second thing is the author is obsessed with detail, much of it inconsequential. Before any action there seems to be some strange detailed description. If this happened occasionally it would add interest, but not all the time. Just one example of what I mean.
Overall for 349 pages I thought this was a really good read, even though I wish the author would cut out some of the irrelevant detail. However the last page was just preposterous and could only have happened if the entire Space Force was run by two year olds!
My rating went from a possible four to two stars in the space of one page.
The second thing is the author is obsessed with detail, much of it inconsequential. Before any action there seems to be some strange detailed description. If this happened occasionally it would add interest, but not all the time. Just one example of what I mean.
Overall for 349 pages I thought this was a really good read, even though I wish the author would cut out some of the irrelevant detail. However the last page was just preposterous and could only have happened if the entire Space Force was run by two year olds!
My rating went from a possible four to two stars in the space of one page.
December 30, 2020
The second book in the Earth at War series was just as exciting, action packed, and at times, brutal in the intensity of the combat scenes, but also exceptionally intelligent and perceptive with the dialogue and emotional state of each of the characters, especially the Main Character Andy Clanton who suffers from PTSD after his first tour as a Marine in Venezuela.
This is an amazing series, as we have an ex-Marine, Sci-Fi writer, who was in space on board a small space vehicle with a billionaire inventor, Daniel Gatlin, as well as their pilot Julie Nieves, and a Scientist Dr Patel, for an experiment, when Aliens suddenly appear just off the Moon, telling Humanity, that the first to reach them, gets their tech.
Why? They are a bunch of pacifists, (who look remarkably like Koala’s, but are actually descended from Sun Bears, having been taken from Earth, and genetically manipulated thousands of years ago by a Master Race – along with several other species, and then transplanted to different suitable terraformed planets in the Galaxy). The Pacifists (the Helta), however, have been kicking their butts kicked by another of these races, the Tevynians – who look exactly like Humans, (drum roll….), because they are. Tevynians were taken from Earth during the time of Alexander the Great, they are an early Warrior Culture of Humanity, and have gone from having basic weapons (spears, basic swords), to starships and laser blasters. They are highly tactical, but have no engineering capability. And thus the Helta, are being smashed by them.
The Helta, in desperation, have come to humanity as a last hope, breaking several sacred laws.
And so, Andy Clanton, along with his long time friend and Delta Force Master Sgt, James ‘Jambo’ Bowie, start to lead a special ‘Space Force’ of a small team of Delta Team Operatives, along with a larger team of Rangers (Yes, there are lots of jokes about Space Rangers), in missions to help the Helta.
I don’t want to give away spoilers, as this book is just too much fun, and too good a story to wreck with spoilers, you have to read it yourself!!
I will say that the world/galaxy building is just extraordinary, Partlow has put in an incredible amount of depth and detail into the story to make sure that as a reader, you get fully immersed into the story, and really feel like you are on the page with Andy and Jambo, performing each of the operations. It gives it such a realistic feel as you read.
As with the first book, the crew are again trying to help the Helta, but there are several major and minor plotlines running through this story. The obvious one is the conflict between the Helta and Tevynians, and our intrepid Space Force trying to intervene. To do this, they need resources, not just ‘People’, but also weapons, ships, and the special Svalinn Battle Armour. All these things take time, money, and resources to either make or in the case of the ships, to steal.
This book, being book 2 in the series, covers aspects of these operations, but it also covers some of the more personal aspects as well, in that we get to learn more about our main character (characters).
Book 2 takes the time to delve into Andy’s life more, and as a result, we get to see more of his wife, Allie, as well as his son, Zack. This is a really interesting dynamic, as it not only allows us to meet these characters (and some others – I don’t want to give away spoilers), but it also allows the Author to go into Andy’s past a bit, and let us know about his history with his PTSD, and we get to learn more about his character this way, which is a really interesting part of the story. The Author has been incredibly clever in what he has written, and also very sensitive to those who have had any history with PTSD.
The technology in this book is just brilliant, there has been a lot of thought and time put into the design of all aspects of the weapons (from all races, Human, Tevynians and Helta), including the M900 KE Rifle the Humans use, the battle armour that the Humans are using, the Svalinn armour, which is just glorious, and is named for the Norse mythical Svalinn Shield. And of course, there are the ships that the Helta use, that everybody is either borrowing, or have stolen.
The Author has put a lot of effort into each of these items, so that there is a level of realism and believability, even given the Sci-Fi nature of each of them, making the story that much more interesting.
This level of thought and time has also gone into the world (or galaxy) building, providing this rich, detailed, and in-depth environment for our Main Characters to tell their stories in, and although most of these stories are told in ‘Alien’ environments, on other planets, aboard shuttles, ships etc, the detail is such that you can really see and feel it, and know what you are looking at, and you really feel like you are there. Again, as with the tech, it lets you believe you are part of it, and just gives you an extra edge in the story.
Overall, this is an exceptionally well told, fast-paced, adventure, with outstanding Characters, brilliant tech, and beautiful world building, all culminating in an extraordinary story, that is not only thrilling, and captivating, but a lot of fun to. This is one of those Mil Sci-Fi/Space Opera’s that you don’t want to miss!!
This is an amazing series, as we have an ex-Marine, Sci-Fi writer, who was in space on board a small space vehicle with a billionaire inventor, Daniel Gatlin, as well as their pilot Julie Nieves, and a Scientist Dr Patel, for an experiment, when Aliens suddenly appear just off the Moon, telling Humanity, that the first to reach them, gets their tech.
Why? They are a bunch of pacifists, (who look remarkably like Koala’s, but are actually descended from Sun Bears, having been taken from Earth, and genetically manipulated thousands of years ago by a Master Race – along with several other species, and then transplanted to different suitable terraformed planets in the Galaxy). The Pacifists (the Helta), however, have been kicking their butts kicked by another of these races, the Tevynians – who look exactly like Humans, (drum roll….), because they are. Tevynians were taken from Earth during the time of Alexander the Great, they are an early Warrior Culture of Humanity, and have gone from having basic weapons (spears, basic swords), to starships and laser blasters. They are highly tactical, but have no engineering capability. And thus the Helta, are being smashed by them.
The Helta, in desperation, have come to humanity as a last hope, breaking several sacred laws.
And so, Andy Clanton, along with his long time friend and Delta Force Master Sgt, James ‘Jambo’ Bowie, start to lead a special ‘Space Force’ of a small team of Delta Team Operatives, along with a larger team of Rangers (Yes, there are lots of jokes about Space Rangers), in missions to help the Helta.
I don’t want to give away spoilers, as this book is just too much fun, and too good a story to wreck with spoilers, you have to read it yourself!!
I will say that the world/galaxy building is just extraordinary, Partlow has put in an incredible amount of depth and detail into the story to make sure that as a reader, you get fully immersed into the story, and really feel like you are on the page with Andy and Jambo, performing each of the operations. It gives it such a realistic feel as you read.
As with the first book, the crew are again trying to help the Helta, but there are several major and minor plotlines running through this story. The obvious one is the conflict between the Helta and Tevynians, and our intrepid Space Force trying to intervene. To do this, they need resources, not just ‘People’, but also weapons, ships, and the special Svalinn Battle Armour. All these things take time, money, and resources to either make or in the case of the ships, to steal.
This book, being book 2 in the series, covers aspects of these operations, but it also covers some of the more personal aspects as well, in that we get to learn more about our main character (characters).
Book 2 takes the time to delve into Andy’s life more, and as a result, we get to see more of his wife, Allie, as well as his son, Zack. This is a really interesting dynamic, as it not only allows us to meet these characters (and some others – I don’t want to give away spoilers), but it also allows the Author to go into Andy’s past a bit, and let us know about his history with his PTSD, and we get to learn more about his character this way, which is a really interesting part of the story. The Author has been incredibly clever in what he has written, and also very sensitive to those who have had any history with PTSD.
The technology in this book is just brilliant, there has been a lot of thought and time put into the design of all aspects of the weapons (from all races, Human, Tevynians and Helta), including the M900 KE Rifle the Humans use, the battle armour that the Humans are using, the Svalinn armour, which is just glorious, and is named for the Norse mythical Svalinn Shield. And of course, there are the ships that the Helta use, that everybody is either borrowing, or have stolen.
The Author has put a lot of effort into each of these items, so that there is a level of realism and believability, even given the Sci-Fi nature of each of them, making the story that much more interesting.
This level of thought and time has also gone into the world (or galaxy) building, providing this rich, detailed, and in-depth environment for our Main Characters to tell their stories in, and although most of these stories are told in ‘Alien’ environments, on other planets, aboard shuttles, ships etc, the detail is such that you can really see and feel it, and know what you are looking at, and you really feel like you are there. Again, as with the tech, it lets you believe you are part of it, and just gives you an extra edge in the story.
Overall, this is an exceptionally well told, fast-paced, adventure, with outstanding Characters, brilliant tech, and beautiful world building, all culminating in an extraordinary story, that is not only thrilling, and captivating, but a lot of fun to. This is one of those Mil Sci-Fi/Space Opera’s that you don’t want to miss!!
May 28, 2021
Pretty good! On to the next one!
July 3, 2021
Solid followup to book 1. Fun action, creatures, and good main characters. Side characters could use some fleshing out.
April 21, 2021
Great! More action sequences and plot twists. I think this one may be better than the first book.
December 31, 2020
I’m back with one of my favorite series which, considering it’s now only book 2, says quite a lot. And, yes, this is a very good second book in the Earth at War series. Going back to the first book, we read where, now Major Andy Clanton and the Heltans, did an outstanding job of protecting Earth from a potential invasion by the Tevynians. The Tevynians, as you’ll remember, are the humans who were transplanted by the Elders when the Earth was just barely evolving. These humans were picked up and placed on another planet and began their evolution. They and four other species from Earth got the same treatment and have evolved on their own unknown to their place of origin, Earth! Now, the Helta, an evolved species of Kola Bears has attempted to form an Alliance of these races, but the Tevynians have turned hostile and want to take over the entire galaxy.
So, one Helta starship Captain named Joon-Pah, took his ship to Earth to ask the humans for help! That was in violation of Helta law and was not necessarily going to sit well with the Helta leadership. Earth and contact with its Humans was forbidden. But, the deed was done and, due to Major Clanton’s quick thinking, the Heltans actually defeated a Tevynian starship near the Earth’s Moon. Now the plan is to take a US diplomat back to Helta Prime and ask to join their alliance. It is not known how the leadership of the Helta will react to this request or even the visit. Stilll, it is feared that without an alliance between the humans of Earth and the Helta, they might lose any war against the Tervynians.
Major Andy Clanton won the Medal presented to him by the President of the United States for his actions in book 1. He was also promoted to Major and assigned to a Delta Team which he had worked with in his past Marine Corp service. The leader of that Delta Team was an Army Master Sergeant who became a close friend of Andy’s. Unfortunately, Master Sergeant Jambo was killed in that previous action. Now, Major Clanton has been appointed the leader of the Delta team. He doesn’t necessarily feel that he’s qualified to do this since he’s definitely not as highly trained as a Delta Special Forces Operator. Yet, that’s the job he’s been given and he’s going to follow his orders.
Earth sends the only operational starship they have, the USS James Bowie (named after MSgt. Jambo), with Captain Joon-Pah’s starship, the Truthseeker. They have to stop at a planet named Wellspring and discussed with a friend of Captain Joon-Pah the idea of leaving the USS James Bowie here while they went to the Helta home planet. The Truthseeker would take Major Clanton and his Delta Force and the US Deputy Ambassador Delia Strawbridge to meet with the Helta leadership, if they would even consent to the meeting. No one was sure they would.
In the meantime, it was found out through a Tevynian prisoner, that the Tevynians were gearing up for an all out assault of Helta Prime within the next two weeks. As it was, that might give the Helta and the humans from Earth time to discuss and form some kind of common defenses if the Tevynians didn’t attack sooner. Of course, nothing works out like you want. There’s more fighting coming and it’s not a sure thing the Helta’s with the humans help can stop everything the Tevynians might throw at them.
A very good second book in this series. I’m already looking for the next book, “Return Fire, Book 3 in the Earth at War series!
So, one Helta starship Captain named Joon-Pah, took his ship to Earth to ask the humans for help! That was in violation of Helta law and was not necessarily going to sit well with the Helta leadership. Earth and contact with its Humans was forbidden. But, the deed was done and, due to Major Clanton’s quick thinking, the Heltans actually defeated a Tevynian starship near the Earth’s Moon. Now the plan is to take a US diplomat back to Helta Prime and ask to join their alliance. It is not known how the leadership of the Helta will react to this request or even the visit. Stilll, it is feared that without an alliance between the humans of Earth and the Helta, they might lose any war against the Tervynians.
Major Andy Clanton won the Medal presented to him by the President of the United States for his actions in book 1. He was also promoted to Major and assigned to a Delta Team which he had worked with in his past Marine Corp service. The leader of that Delta Team was an Army Master Sergeant who became a close friend of Andy’s. Unfortunately, Master Sergeant Jambo was killed in that previous action. Now, Major Clanton has been appointed the leader of the Delta team. He doesn’t necessarily feel that he’s qualified to do this since he’s definitely not as highly trained as a Delta Special Forces Operator. Yet, that’s the job he’s been given and he’s going to follow his orders.
Earth sends the only operational starship they have, the USS James Bowie (named after MSgt. Jambo), with Captain Joon-Pah’s starship, the Truthseeker. They have to stop at a planet named Wellspring and discussed with a friend of Captain Joon-Pah the idea of leaving the USS James Bowie here while they went to the Helta home planet. The Truthseeker would take Major Clanton and his Delta Force and the US Deputy Ambassador Delia Strawbridge to meet with the Helta leadership, if they would even consent to the meeting. No one was sure they would.
In the meantime, it was found out through a Tevynian prisoner, that the Tevynians were gearing up for an all out assault of Helta Prime within the next two weeks. As it was, that might give the Helta and the humans from Earth time to discuss and form some kind of common defenses if the Tevynians didn’t attack sooner. Of course, nothing works out like you want. There’s more fighting coming and it’s not a sure thing the Helta’s with the humans help can stop everything the Tevynians might throw at them.
A very good second book in this series. I’m already looking for the next book, “Return Fire, Book 3 in the Earth at War series!
January 8, 2021
“Earth at War — Primary Targets” picks up where the previous book “1st to Fight” ends. Major Andy Clayton had been deployed with the Delta Forces team his friend James “Jambo” Bowie headed up before Bowie was killed in an action 1200 light years away from Earth.
As in Book 1, Book 2 is filled with realistic military action both on solid ground and in space, believable characters, and a story that is will draw you in until the very last paragraph.
Book 2 is delves more into the interaction with and dynamics of the Helta, aliens who contacted Earth to ask for their help in fending off the Tevyanians. The Helta resemble cute large koala bears and the Tevyenians look like humans. This is because a group known as the Elders harvested a panoply of animals from Earth, terraformed a number of worlds and seeded them with Earth flora and fauna, more than a hundred thousand years ago.
The Helta helped Earth build one interstellar craft and had plans to help build more but as in any good story, politics throws a monkey wrench into those plans but not among the humans, among the Helta..
Sit back, open this book, and plan on spending the next few hours reading it. You will enjoy the humor, the military action, and the interplay between humans and Helta, especially between Clayton and his friend Joon-Pa.
You don’t absolutely have to have read Book 1 but if you do it will help to fill in the backstory that will make the read much richer and more interesting.
And when you have finished both, get ready for Earth at War Book 3, Return Fire, the final book of the trilogy.
As in Book 1, Book 2 is filled with realistic military action both on solid ground and in space, believable characters, and a story that is will draw you in until the very last paragraph.
Book 2 is delves more into the interaction with and dynamics of the Helta, aliens who contacted Earth to ask for their help in fending off the Tevyanians. The Helta resemble cute large koala bears and the Tevyenians look like humans. This is because a group known as the Elders harvested a panoply of animals from Earth, terraformed a number of worlds and seeded them with Earth flora and fauna, more than a hundred thousand years ago.
The Helta helped Earth build one interstellar craft and had plans to help build more but as in any good story, politics throws a monkey wrench into those plans but not among the humans, among the Helta..
Sit back, open this book, and plan on spending the next few hours reading it. You will enjoy the humor, the military action, and the interplay between humans and Helta, especially between Clayton and his friend Joon-Pa.
You don’t absolutely have to have read Book 1 but if you do it will help to fill in the backstory that will make the read much richer and more interesting.
And when you have finished both, get ready for Earth at War Book 3, Return Fire, the final book of the trilogy.
January 23, 2021
So good
I was skeptical on this one. I hate when series do the diplomatic, small scale book. This is not that. It’s starts small but becomes a huge mess. It’s a great read.
I was skeptical on this one. I hate when series do the diplomatic, small scale book. This is not that. It’s starts small but becomes a huge mess. It’s a great read.
January 11, 2021
Quick and leaves reader with coherent path.
Fast moving. Keeps you involved with characters and doesn’t slow down
. A good read for insomniacs like me. Pace is enough to have the highlights or slow spots move also.
Fast moving. Keeps you involved with characters and doesn’t slow down
. A good read for insomniacs like me. Pace is enough to have the highlights or slow spots move also.
January 5, 2021
Hard to put down
I don’t like political books, and this one has politics... that I don’t hate for once! The protagonist hates em as much as I do, so it’s mostly a fun run and gun epic.
I don’t like political books, and this one has politics... that I don’t hate for once! The protagonist hates em as much as I do, so it’s mostly a fun run and gun epic.
January 1, 2021
A good continuation of the series
A good story with lots of action. Best to read book 1 of the series to give context to this book but it does stand alone.
A good story with lots of action. Best to read book 1 of the series to give context to this book but it does stand alone.
December 30, 2020
Good read
Another great book complementing the first book. Fast paced with intriguing plots and twists keep pulling you into the story.
Another great book complementing the first book. Fast paced with intriguing plots and twists keep pulling you into the story.
December 26, 2020
Must read
Rick Partlow has written another great novel in the Earth at War universe. This book is a great followup to the first Earth at War novel and I can guarantee you will want to pick up the third novel. Excellent military science fiction that also has a great subplot regarding the mysterious Elders. I recommend!
Rick Partlow has written another great novel in the Earth at War universe. This book is a great followup to the first Earth at War novel and I can guarantee you will want to pick up the third novel. Excellent military science fiction that also has a great subplot regarding the mysterious Elders. I recommend!
December 24, 2020
Solid
At least on par with Terry Mixons Empire of Bones. Similar energy, but more serious and realistic. I might say a little light on the science, but considering it is told from the point of view of a grunt, not to mention an officer, it makes sense.
At least on par with Terry Mixons Empire of Bones. Similar energy, but more serious and realistic. I might say a little light on the science, but considering it is told from the point of view of a grunt, not to mention an officer, it makes sense.
Read
December 15, 2020Snark-action !!!
That's right,I just made up a a word(I think) to describe this series!! The puns, bullets & story line fly faster than light! I hope there's more than 3 books in this series cause 3 won't be enough for me!!! I'm already in withdrawals & I just finished the 2nd book don't know if I can wait for 16 more days! Hurry and send the team to the rescue!!
That's right,I just made up a a word(I think) to describe this series!! The puns, bullets & story line fly faster than light! I hope there's more than 3 books in this series cause 3 won't be enough for me!!! I'm already in withdrawals & I just finished the 2nd book don't know if I can wait for 16 more days! Hurry and send the team to the rescue!!
December 12, 2020
Another excellent book by Partlow. His books are so easy to read and so enjoyable that I have to make myself slow down when I'm reading so I can savor the story. I'm not comparing him to Heinlein but his books are every bit as fun to read.
Read
December 10, 2020Great read.....
I love it. Outstanding story. Each one is better than the last one. I can't wait for the next. Great Job!
I love it. Outstanding story. Each one is better than the last one. I can't wait for the next. Great Job!
December 14, 2020
A nice series
This book has interesting characters as well as lots of action and intrigue. I had to read it straight thru without stopping
This book has interesting characters as well as lots of action and intrigue. I had to read it straight thru without stopping
December 16, 2020
Cracking Storyline
Well totally enjoyed this storyline and totally looking forward to book 3 Return Fire. Total shame about losing most of the team.
Well totally enjoyed this storyline and totally looking forward to book 3 Return Fire. Total shame about losing most of the team.
December 16, 2020
Gritty Fun Read
Great job by the author.
The book does not sanitize the grit of a real dirty insurgence. Reminds me of David Drake.
Great job by the author.
The book does not sanitize the grit of a real dirty insurgence. Reminds me of David Drake.
January 30, 2022
Great story premise, unlikable main protagonist. he is a Loreene Sakanded to a Delta force troop who does not know what he’s doing, gets people killed, not very bright, I guess that’ is they are called jar heads. He does not belong there without giving spoilers away you will see if you read this book.
This is a great story premise. People from planet earth fighting against aliens who look just like them. The technology is great, the aliens are great, the main protagonist not so much The main protagonist is a marine attached to a Delta squad, tell me how unlikely that is. He doesn’t know what he’s doing, he gets people killed for example he stop shooting at the enemy as they’re running away, while his companions keep up disciplined fire. This act comes back to bite him later on by getting companion skilled. He does not belong there. I know some authors who chains main characters during a series. In my humble opinion he should change this one. There are other instances in the book that Ott an appropriate for a leader no more spoilers. Just not too bright, he even says cell during the story. Just not likable like cam Alvarez. I forgot this is why I stopped reading the series but since I was snowed in I went back to it. You may like it, you may enjoy the story and the main character. Knock yourself out.
This is a great story premise. People from planet earth fighting against aliens who look just like them. The technology is great, the aliens are great, the main protagonist not so much The main protagonist is a marine attached to a Delta squad, tell me how unlikely that is. He doesn’t know what he’s doing, he gets people killed for example he stop shooting at the enemy as they’re running away, while his companions keep up disciplined fire. This act comes back to bite him later on by getting companion skilled. He does not belong there. I know some authors who chains main characters during a series. In my humble opinion he should change this one. There are other instances in the book that Ott an appropriate for a leader no more spoilers. Just not too bright, he even says cell during the story. Just not likable like cam Alvarez. I forgot this is why I stopped reading the series but since I was snowed in I went back to it. You may like it, you may enjoy the story and the main character. Knock yourself out.
January 12, 2026
The Pressure Cooker Clicks Into High Gear: A Solid, Action-Fueled Sequel [4/5 Stars]
So, you blasted through 1st to Fight and the crew of the James Bowie saved Earth. Easy part's over, right? Rick Partlow's Primary Targets slams home the harsh reality that winning a battle and winning a war—or even securing an alliance—are galaxies apart. Picking up right after the explosive debut, this sequel trades the initial shock of first contact for the tense, high-stakes game of interstellar politics and desperate diplomacy. It's a brilliant follow-up that deepens the conflict and the characters, though it carries a few of the quirks common to middle-series books. A strong 4 out of 5 stars for keeping the throttle wide open.
Key Themes: Diplomacy, Trauma, and the Fog of War
The Burden of the "First": Book one established humanity's place; book two explores the crushing weight of maintaining it. The central challenge isn't just fighting the Tevynians, but convincing the terrified, pacifist Helta that humans—who look identical to their mortal enemies—can be trusted as allies. It’s a smart exploration of prejudice and the distrust that lingers long after the "good guys" arrive.
The Scars Beneath the Armor: Partlow, an Army veteran, continues to ground his sci-fi with authentic military grit. Here, he delves deeper into the psychological cost. Andy Clanton's PTSD isn't a background trait; it's a living part of his character, affecting his decisions and relationships, adding a layer of emotional realism that elevates the combat.
The Machinery of War vs. the Morality of Soldiers: The story expands on the series' core premise: who are the real "good guys"? The Tevynians are essentially a lost, militant branch of humanity, creating a compelling moral gray area. The book contrasts their aggressive culture with the more principled (but still brutally effective) approach of Andy's team, asking tough questions about necessity and righteousness in a fight for survival.
Character Analysis: Leaders, Soldiers, and Survivors
Andy Clanton: Promoted and shouldering command, Andy's arc is about imposter syndrome and leadership under cosmic pressure. He's no longer just a Marine reacting to crisis; he's a Major making calls that could doom planets. His struggle with his past trauma and his commitment to his family back on Earth make him a relatable, flawed anchor.
The Expanded "Bowie" Crew: With the tragic loss of Jambo, the team dynamics shift. New and existing side characters get more spotlight, though some readers noted a desire for them to be fleshed out even further. The interactions with the Helta—particularly those struggling to trust their human look-alikes—provide most of the new interpersonal tension.
The Tevynians: Moving beyond faceless enemies, we get glimpses into their society and motivations. They remain the formidable threat, but Partlow wisely avoids mustache-twirling villainy, framing them more as a dark reflection of humanity's own potential path.
Writing Style & Pacing: Authentic and Relentless
Partlow's prose remains straightforward, technical, and immersive, perfect for the military-SF genre. His Army background shines in the tactical descriptions of the advanced "Svalinn" battle armor and ship combat, which fans praise for their believable detail. The pacing is, once again, breakneck. The clock is always ticking toward the Tevynian fleet's arrival, creating a sustained tension that makes the book hard to put down.
However, this is where a minor critique emerges. A few readers felt that the obsession with procedural detail—describing every action in a sequence—could occasionally slow the momentum they craved. Additionally, some eagle-eyed fans spotted minor continuity hiccups with book one, where Andy references doing things "for the first time" that he'd arguably done before.
What I Liked/Disliked
Liked:
Elevated Stakes & Smart Conflict: Shifting the primary obstacle from combat to tense, politically charged diplomacy was a masterstroke. It raises the intellectual stakes to match the military ones.
Emotional Depth: The deeper dive into Andy's PTSD and his home life adds a crucial human layer to the space opera spectacle, making the victories harder and the losses more poignant.
World-Building Payoff: Learning more about the Helta's history, the "Elder" races, and the Tevynian culture feels rewarding and expands the universe in exciting ways.
Disliked (or More Accurately, Nitpicked):
The Detail Debate: While I appreciate the authenticity, I sympathize with readers who felt some passages were overly meticulous. Your mileage may vary based on your appetite for technical run-downs.
A Rushed Finale?: Without spoilers, the final climax and its immediate aftermath felt a touch abrupt to some, wrapping up a major thread quickly to set up the next book.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Final Verdict: Primary Targets is a textbook example of a strong series sequel. It doesn't suffer from "middle book syndrome"; instead, it successfully raises the stakes, complicates the politics, and deepens the characters. It proves the Earth at War series has a long-game vision.
You'll love this book if: You loved the action and authenticity of 1st to Fight. If you're a fan of military SF that tackles the logistical and political nightmares of war as much as the firefights (think John Ringo or David Weber), this is your jam.
Maybe give it a pass if: You're looking for a standalone story or prefer your sci-fi more philosophical than tactical. This is unapologetically a soldier's story in a star-spanning war.
For fans of the first book, this is a must-read. It delivers the same gritty, propulsive action while smartly evolving the conflict. I'm already queuing up Return Fire for my next interstellar deployment.
So, you blasted through 1st to Fight and the crew of the James Bowie saved Earth. Easy part's over, right? Rick Partlow's Primary Targets slams home the harsh reality that winning a battle and winning a war—or even securing an alliance—are galaxies apart. Picking up right after the explosive debut, this sequel trades the initial shock of first contact for the tense, high-stakes game of interstellar politics and desperate diplomacy. It's a brilliant follow-up that deepens the conflict and the characters, though it carries a few of the quirks common to middle-series books. A strong 4 out of 5 stars for keeping the throttle wide open.
Key Themes: Diplomacy, Trauma, and the Fog of War
The Burden of the "First": Book one established humanity's place; book two explores the crushing weight of maintaining it. The central challenge isn't just fighting the Tevynians, but convincing the terrified, pacifist Helta that humans—who look identical to their mortal enemies—can be trusted as allies. It’s a smart exploration of prejudice and the distrust that lingers long after the "good guys" arrive.
The Scars Beneath the Armor: Partlow, an Army veteran, continues to ground his sci-fi with authentic military grit. Here, he delves deeper into the psychological cost. Andy Clanton's PTSD isn't a background trait; it's a living part of his character, affecting his decisions and relationships, adding a layer of emotional realism that elevates the combat.
The Machinery of War vs. the Morality of Soldiers: The story expands on the series' core premise: who are the real "good guys"? The Tevynians are essentially a lost, militant branch of humanity, creating a compelling moral gray area. The book contrasts their aggressive culture with the more principled (but still brutally effective) approach of Andy's team, asking tough questions about necessity and righteousness in a fight for survival.
Character Analysis: Leaders, Soldiers, and Survivors
Andy Clanton: Promoted and shouldering command, Andy's arc is about imposter syndrome and leadership under cosmic pressure. He's no longer just a Marine reacting to crisis; he's a Major making calls that could doom planets. His struggle with his past trauma and his commitment to his family back on Earth make him a relatable, flawed anchor.
The Expanded "Bowie" Crew: With the tragic loss of Jambo, the team dynamics shift. New and existing side characters get more spotlight, though some readers noted a desire for them to be fleshed out even further. The interactions with the Helta—particularly those struggling to trust their human look-alikes—provide most of the new interpersonal tension.
The Tevynians: Moving beyond faceless enemies, we get glimpses into their society and motivations. They remain the formidable threat, but Partlow wisely avoids mustache-twirling villainy, framing them more as a dark reflection of humanity's own potential path.
Writing Style & Pacing: Authentic and Relentless
Partlow's prose remains straightforward, technical, and immersive, perfect for the military-SF genre. His Army background shines in the tactical descriptions of the advanced "Svalinn" battle armor and ship combat, which fans praise for their believable detail. The pacing is, once again, breakneck. The clock is always ticking toward the Tevynian fleet's arrival, creating a sustained tension that makes the book hard to put down.
However, this is where a minor critique emerges. A few readers felt that the obsession with procedural detail—describing every action in a sequence—could occasionally slow the momentum they craved. Additionally, some eagle-eyed fans spotted minor continuity hiccups with book one, where Andy references doing things "for the first time" that he'd arguably done before.
What I Liked/Disliked
Liked:
Elevated Stakes & Smart Conflict: Shifting the primary obstacle from combat to tense, politically charged diplomacy was a masterstroke. It raises the intellectual stakes to match the military ones.
Emotional Depth: The deeper dive into Andy's PTSD and his home life adds a crucial human layer to the space opera spectacle, making the victories harder and the losses more poignant.
World-Building Payoff: Learning more about the Helta's history, the "Elder" races, and the Tevynian culture feels rewarding and expands the universe in exciting ways.
Disliked (or More Accurately, Nitpicked):
The Detail Debate: While I appreciate the authenticity, I sympathize with readers who felt some passages were overly meticulous. Your mileage may vary based on your appetite for technical run-downs.
A Rushed Finale?: Without spoilers, the final climax and its immediate aftermath felt a touch abrupt to some, wrapping up a major thread quickly to set up the next book.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Final Verdict: Primary Targets is a textbook example of a strong series sequel. It doesn't suffer from "middle book syndrome"; instead, it successfully raises the stakes, complicates the politics, and deepens the characters. It proves the Earth at War series has a long-game vision.
You'll love this book if: You loved the action and authenticity of 1st to Fight. If you're a fan of military SF that tackles the logistical and political nightmares of war as much as the firefights (think John Ringo or David Weber), this is your jam.
Maybe give it a pass if: You're looking for a standalone story or prefer your sci-fi more philosophical than tactical. This is unapologetically a soldier's story in a star-spanning war.
For fans of the first book, this is a must-read. It delivers the same gritty, propulsive action while smartly evolving the conflict. I'm already queuing up Return Fire for my next interstellar deployment.
July 6, 2022
A Page Turner
I enjoyed everything about this book. It was serious and fun at the same time. As usual our government gets stabbed in the back by Russia and China and we’re caught with our pants down. You don’t want to put the book down because you have to see what happens next. Read it, you will enjoy it.
I enjoyed everything about this book. It was serious and fun at the same time. As usual our government gets stabbed in the back by Russia and China and we’re caught with our pants down. You don’t want to put the book down because you have to see what happens next. Read it, you will enjoy it.
November 25, 2021
Great book
Oh man, the story gets better. The crew is taking hard hits. The situation is on a roller coaster ride. I'm enjoying the series. No time to write a better review, time to get that next book!!!
Oh man, the story gets better. The crew is taking hard hits. The situation is on a roller coaster ride. I'm enjoying the series. No time to write a better review, time to get that next book!!!
October 21, 2022
So the story is very space opera.
It was well written, but the general choices from characters are questionable. It all makes sense in story, hence the five stars, but it is not something I still want to read about.
It was well written, but the general choices from characters are questionable. It all makes sense in story, hence the five stars, but it is not something I still want to read about.
June 17, 2023
Exciting Space Marines!
I am enjoying this series so much! A taut novel that moves in unexpected directions. Unlike so many other books, this one took several unexpected turns, keeping my attention wholly. Buying the next one!
I am enjoying this series so much! A taut novel that moves in unexpected directions. Unlike so many other books, this one took several unexpected turns, keeping my attention wholly. Buying the next one!
February 20, 2021
Best read in ages.
Great great great story I hope Can was as thrilled as I was to learn he made President. 2024 I hope.
Great great great story I hope Can was as thrilled as I was to learn he made President. 2024 I hope.
February 26, 2021
Good story!
Lots of exciting action, decent combat scenes. Although the "enemy" is a version of us, they would not have any advantage. I got lost, ignore it.
Lots of exciting action, decent combat scenes. Although the "enemy" is a version of us, they would not have any advantage. I got lost, ignore it.
March 17, 2021
Great One
Just as good as the first. Just like the first hard to put down. Extremely entertaining. Already have the next one to begin.
Just as good as the first. Just like the first hard to put down. Extremely entertaining. Already have the next one to begin.
April 6, 2021
Wow
Wow. Here we go again. Great story. Great execution. Love this. On to the next increment of this adventure. Don't miss it.
Wow. Here we go again. Great story. Great execution. Love this. On to the next increment of this adventure. Don't miss it.
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