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The Crimson Deathbringer Series #2
The Golden Viper
Kanoor has fallen.
Despite their crushing defeat on Earth, the Xortaags are back, and with a genius plan that can be the brainchild of only one man in the galaxy, they’ve conquered the Akakie homeworld.
Not being the forgive-and-forget types, the Xortaags have chosen Earth as their next target. Moreover, if they have enough time to reverse-engineer all the advanced technology they found on Kanoor, they will rule the universe forever. Now it’s up to Jim, Kurt, Oksana and Tarq to save not only humanity but also every single sentient species in the universe.
And to make things worse, an even more sinister threat (yeah, more sinister than the Xortaags) is emerging in the background.
You thought the stakes were high in The Crimson Deathbringer (with Earth conquered and 700 million people killed)? You ain’t seen nothing yet!
Despite their crushing defeat on Earth, the Xortaags are back, and with a genius plan that can be the brainchild of only one man in the galaxy, they’ve conquered the Akakie homeworld.
Not being the forgive-and-forget types, the Xortaags have chosen Earth as their next target. Moreover, if they have enough time to reverse-engineer all the advanced technology they found on Kanoor, they will rule the universe forever. Now it’s up to Jim, Kurt, Oksana and Tarq to save not only humanity but also every single sentient species in the universe.
And to make things worse, an even more sinister threat (yeah, more sinister than the Xortaags) is emerging in the background.
You thought the stakes were high in The Crimson Deathbringer (with Earth conquered and 700 million people killed)? You ain’t seen nothing yet!
- GenresScience Fiction
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2021
148 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Sean Robins
105 books63 followers"Who am I? I am Spider-Man."
Well, not really, but this should tell you all you need to know about me and my writing style.
I'm a huge Marvel (plus Game of Thrones, Star Trek AND Star Wars) fan, which shows since my novel is loaded with pop culture references. If you are a sci-fi fan (I assume that you are, otherwise what are you doing here?) you will enjoy them tremendously. I even went full Deadpool in my first draft and broke the fourth wall multiple times, until my editor told it was distracting and kept taking her out of the moment. Shame. Those fourth-wall breaks were hilarious. Still, I can guarantee a few laugh-out-loud moments. Case in point: The "good" aliens in my novel are a race of pranksters, whose main goal in life is pulling other people's legs (They have four legs, hence the slight change in the idiom). My favorite author is Jim Butcher (The Dresden Files), which is probably how I ended up writing in a first-person POV with the same light-hearted, funny tone as he does. The fact that my MC's name is Jim is purely coincidental though.
I am a university/college level English teacher, and including Canada, I have lived and worked in five different countries. I have met people from all around the world. Plus, my parents are from a different background, and so is my wife. As a result, diversity has become a major theme in my novel. My characters look like the bridge crew from Star Trek. One of my female characters even impersonated Uhura once, albeit posthumously.
Well, not really, but this should tell you all you need to know about me and my writing style.
I'm a huge Marvel (plus Game of Thrones, Star Trek AND Star Wars) fan, which shows since my novel is loaded with pop culture references. If you are a sci-fi fan (I assume that you are, otherwise what are you doing here?) you will enjoy them tremendously. I even went full Deadpool in my first draft and broke the fourth wall multiple times, until my editor told it was distracting and kept taking her out of the moment. Shame. Those fourth-wall breaks were hilarious. Still, I can guarantee a few laugh-out-loud moments. Case in point: The "good" aliens in my novel are a race of pranksters, whose main goal in life is pulling other people's legs (They have four legs, hence the slight change in the idiom). My favorite author is Jim Butcher (The Dresden Files), which is probably how I ended up writing in a first-person POV with the same light-hearted, funny tone as he does. The fact that my MC's name is Jim is purely coincidental though.
I am a university/college level English teacher, and including Canada, I have lived and worked in five different countries. I have met people from all around the world. Plus, my parents are from a different background, and so is my wife. As a result, diversity has become a major theme in my novel. My characters look like the bridge crew from Star Trek. One of my female characters even impersonated Uhura once, albeit posthumously.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 17, 2020
Last month, I read and reviewed The Crimson Deathbringer by Sean Robins, a new author who'd debuted his science-fiction novel to great feedback and tons of positive reviews. This time, I'm devouring the second in his series, The Golden Viper. I'm digging the theme of his titles containing colors and murderous intent... might be the mystery-lover inside me... or is he trying to convert me into a mega-fantasy fan too? Let's dive into the review...
The second book in this series picks up where we left off last time. In a great opening scene, we discover that all didn't end as well as we'd hoped. We're immediately dropped into chaos, introduced to a frightening new character, and a knocked on the head with a huge shocking surprise when chapter two kicks off. All in all, this book was equally strong, but I daresay, I wish it were a bit longer.
In comparing the two, this one has a slightly more subtle humor enveloping the story from beginning to end. We have a few fun quotes and pop culture references, helping to cement the voice of the narrator and his friends. No matter what, I do think Jim is my favorite character. Kurt is right up there, but he's got a whole lot to deal with this time that makes it hard for him to deal with the losses he suffered in the last book.
This is a story about multiple species who are suddenly aligned to fight the common enemy. There are bound to be issues and disagreement. They are disorganized at first, then they find their footing and build friendships. We're introduced to fun and scary new characters. Some I wouldn't want to be anywhere near, others I could be friends with. At first. The end changes everything, of course. The truth always comes out. There is a scene early on with a gun, a new character, a mind-control technique, and romance (of sorts)... it'll make your eyes bug out, and then of course, when we learn what that nasty alien race is up to (OH MY)... the proverbial you-know-what splatters everywhere.
Mass genocide is the theme this time -- those Xortaags are evil! Basically, these fights come down to a numbers game. Each side gains control, and as readers, we can't wait to see the battle scenes. Robins delivers in all of them. How many civilizations or planets can each control? Who will take over the universe? So many questions... until it comes down to the real negotiations. As I said earlier, the Truth comes out. Alliances are revealed. Yikes! This definitely sets the perfect stage for the third book in the series. I can't wait to find out what might happen... at least we have a cool teaser at the end of this one. I have my suspicions, but the clever author has a way of tricking us, so I'll be prepared.
The second book in this series picks up where we left off last time. In a great opening scene, we discover that all didn't end as well as we'd hoped. We're immediately dropped into chaos, introduced to a frightening new character, and a knocked on the head with a huge shocking surprise when chapter two kicks off. All in all, this book was equally strong, but I daresay, I wish it were a bit longer.
In comparing the two, this one has a slightly more subtle humor enveloping the story from beginning to end. We have a few fun quotes and pop culture references, helping to cement the voice of the narrator and his friends. No matter what, I do think Jim is my favorite character. Kurt is right up there, but he's got a whole lot to deal with this time that makes it hard for him to deal with the losses he suffered in the last book.
This is a story about multiple species who are suddenly aligned to fight the common enemy. There are bound to be issues and disagreement. They are disorganized at first, then they find their footing and build friendships. We're introduced to fun and scary new characters. Some I wouldn't want to be anywhere near, others I could be friends with. At first. The end changes everything, of course. The truth always comes out. There is a scene early on with a gun, a new character, a mind-control technique, and romance (of sorts)... it'll make your eyes bug out, and then of course, when we learn what that nasty alien race is up to (OH MY)... the proverbial you-know-what splatters everywhere.
Mass genocide is the theme this time -- those Xortaags are evil! Basically, these fights come down to a numbers game. Each side gains control, and as readers, we can't wait to see the battle scenes. Robins delivers in all of them. How many civilizations or planets can each control? Who will take over the universe? So many questions... until it comes down to the real negotiations. As I said earlier, the Truth comes out. Alliances are revealed. Yikes! This definitely sets the perfect stage for the third book in the series. I can't wait to find out what might happen... at least we have a cool teaser at the end of this one. I have my suspicions, but the clever author has a way of tricking us, so I'll be prepared.
October 3, 2019
What a great sequel!
RTC....
RTC....
January 20, 2020
Loved this scifi story
Overall, a five star book. I love scifi and this book puts everything scifi to the forefront. Space wars, characters was within themselves, many differ6races and cultures, the weaponry in this future point in time, and more. If you like scifi then this is the book for you. Like in the first book, there were wordage that originated from Star Trek, etc for humor.I found many grammar errors. Teaching English doesn't make for an error free book. Writing novels is different. Some words misspelled, some tense changes, overall the errors did not affect my reading. Five stars.
Overall, a five star book. I love scifi and this book puts everything scifi to the forefront. Space wars, characters was within themselves, many differ6races and cultures, the weaponry in this future point in time, and more. If you like scifi then this is the book for you. Like in the first book, there were wordage that originated from Star Trek, etc for humor.I found many grammar errors. Teaching English doesn't make for an error free book. Writing novels is different. Some words misspelled, some tense changes, overall the errors did not affect my reading. Five stars.
August 23, 2021
It will be weird for me to review my own book, so instead, I'm going to repeat some of the things other people said about the first book in the series, The Crimson Deathbringer, in their Amazon reviews. All of these are true about the second book too:)
"This book reads like a Marvel movie."
"The characters are a bunch of heroes and anti-heroes, often foul-mouthed and outspoken. The novel is funny, imaginative and has a lot of dramatic tension to make for some compelling reading. I devoured it almost in one sitting and prayed I'd be able to finish it and find out how it would end before I had to do something else. This was very enjoyable and something I'm sure many people will have great fun reading."
"I was hooked from the word go. It's good and different, a refreshing change, and it kept surprising me. Even the tone of the story keeps changing when you least expect it, from humorous to tragic and back. And I just loved the prankster aliens and their pranks, especially the RoboCop one, the one where they turned someone into a cow (!!) and eat-your-gun one. Great story and if you enjoy SciFi, you're going to love this book."
"I loved this book, and so did my brother! It’s hilarious and full of pop culture references most of which I understood and enjoyed. The action scenes, especially the space battles, are breathtaking. I loved most of the characters, especially Jim: he is very funny. I couldn’t put the book down during the final battle. I think this book is perfect to be made into a movie!"
"The book is filled with anything you'd want out of a sci-fi novel. fun story, checked! great characters, checked! Classic sci-fi plots but with fresh twists & turns, check!
What I was largely impressed by is the insane number of references that are made & used here. The novel is clearly a work of passion & commitment & what stands high 7 above it is the ultimate respect of & for the audience. If you're looking for a good time in a fresh novel, this is definitely the book u want to pick up."
"The author refers to himself as "A Star Trek and Star Wars fan", and their influence is visible. The tone of story-telling also reminds me of that of the late Sidney Sheldon, one of my favorite authors. So while I am not the biggest fan of space war sci-fi (beyond watching Star Wars franchise obviously), there was still a lot to enjoy. There are witty characters and funny dialogues."
i think that's enough, but make sure to check the Goodreads reviews too:)
"This book reads like a Marvel movie."
"The characters are a bunch of heroes and anti-heroes, often foul-mouthed and outspoken. The novel is funny, imaginative and has a lot of dramatic tension to make for some compelling reading. I devoured it almost in one sitting and prayed I'd be able to finish it and find out how it would end before I had to do something else. This was very enjoyable and something I'm sure many people will have great fun reading."
"I was hooked from the word go. It's good and different, a refreshing change, and it kept surprising me. Even the tone of the story keeps changing when you least expect it, from humorous to tragic and back. And I just loved the prankster aliens and their pranks, especially the RoboCop one, the one where they turned someone into a cow (!!) and eat-your-gun one. Great story and if you enjoy SciFi, you're going to love this book."
"I loved this book, and so did my brother! It’s hilarious and full of pop culture references most of which I understood and enjoyed. The action scenes, especially the space battles, are breathtaking. I loved most of the characters, especially Jim: he is very funny. I couldn’t put the book down during the final battle. I think this book is perfect to be made into a movie!"
"The book is filled with anything you'd want out of a sci-fi novel. fun story, checked! great characters, checked! Classic sci-fi plots but with fresh twists & turns, check!
What I was largely impressed by is the insane number of references that are made & used here. The novel is clearly a work of passion & commitment & what stands high 7 above it is the ultimate respect of & for the audience. If you're looking for a good time in a fresh novel, this is definitely the book u want to pick up."
"The author refers to himself as "A Star Trek and Star Wars fan", and their influence is visible. The tone of story-telling also reminds me of that of the late Sidney Sheldon, one of my favorite authors. So while I am not the biggest fan of space war sci-fi (beyond watching Star Wars franchise obviously), there was still a lot to enjoy. There are witty characters and funny dialogues."
i think that's enough, but make sure to check the Goodreads reviews too:)
January 7, 2020
Galactic threats return in Sean Robins’ The Golden Viper! Despite their defeat, the Xortaags are back to conquer Earth once more. Fortunately, Kurt, Jim, Oksana, and Tarq have all returned as well to defend it. The Golden Viper has all the high flying action and great character chemistry that makes Robins’ series so much fun to read! If you like space battles and galactic plots, this one’s for you!
October 26, 2019
Your favorite heroes and villains are back! In The Golden Viper, Sean Robins’ fun sci-fi sequel to The Crimson Deathbringer, the odious Xortaags return—to conquer Earth. Their ultimate plan, however, is to use advanced technology discovered on Kanoor to rule the universe. How dastardly can one alien race be!?
Major Jim Harrison (the protagonist), Venom (his alter-ego, in a manner of speaking), and Kurt (Jim’s best friend), likewise return. If you’ve read Deathbringer, you’ll be happy to hear that four-footed Akakie jokester Tarq—Jim’s “alien brother”—and egocentric General Maada (yes, that win-at-all-odds commander) are also back. Inserting a few new intriguing characters into the equation equates to an awesome follow-up.
You’ll also find those stories within stories and different POVs that worked so well in Deathbringer. How will Jim deal with a significant past loss? Will the Xortaags succeed in their heinous quest(s)? Does Tarq carry on pulling outlandish pranks? Who’s more ruthless: Maada or his conniving brothers? Are new team members to be trusted? Can Earth be saved? Will Jim et al cease/continue making eye-rolling film and television references?
When a book begins with, “The deafening Death Siren cried out like the wail of a thousand animals being slaughtered”, you know you’re in for a thrilling storybook ride. Action and excitement reign—and not just during exhilerating spaceship battles!
Is The Golden Viper as good as The Crimson Deathbringer? Judge for yourself (I promise, you won’t be disappointed).
And what of the author? In addition to being a huge fan of Marvel, Game of Thrones, Star Wars and Star Trek, Sean Robins is also a university/college level English teacher, who has lived and worked in five different countries( like Canada, eh?). He’s met people from all around the world, and his parents and wife are from different backgrounds—hence, diversity as a major theme in his novels.
January 12, 2020
The war was over, with Maada's death Jim's notoriety and word of his heroism raced across the universe faster than a Space-folding device equipped vessel. They called him kingslayer, because he had done the impossible. But with Maada's resurrection, it seemed he would be called upon once more. Kanoor fell quickly, placing devastatingly powerful advanced technology into the hands of the Xortaags. Jim, Kirt, and the crew must once again face impossible odds for the sake of all life. Last time the war cost more than could ever be reconciled, and this time decisions will have to be made that will leave a bitter taste. Will the cost of stopping the Xortaags be worth the sacrifice? Assuming, that is, they can pull a victory from the ashes once more.
The Golden Viper is the second book in Sean Robins' Crimson Deathbringer trilogy. Having read the first book I couldn't wait to see where Jim's adventures took him next, and I wasn't disappointed. From liberating planets and facing old enemies, to uncovering a new dangerous threat lurking in the shadows. The ramifications of their victory against the Xortaags were heavy, and we watch as those involved find ways to move on, while giving hope to those around them. Unlike the first book, which is a more typical science fiction, this one becomes a science fiction, space drama with a temporal aspect woven within. The Golden Viper builds on already strong, deep characters, and adds further depth to them while remaining true to the vivid personalities. Suspenseful, gripping, and packed with action this will appeal to anyone who loves a character-driven, activation-packed read where protagonists are forced to face impossible odds.
The Golden Viper is the second book in Sean Robins' Crimson Deathbringer trilogy. Having read the first book I couldn't wait to see where Jim's adventures took him next, and I wasn't disappointed. From liberating planets and facing old enemies, to uncovering a new dangerous threat lurking in the shadows. The ramifications of their victory against the Xortaags were heavy, and we watch as those involved find ways to move on, while giving hope to those around them. Unlike the first book, which is a more typical science fiction, this one becomes a science fiction, space drama with a temporal aspect woven within. The Golden Viper builds on already strong, deep characters, and adds further depth to them while remaining true to the vivid personalities. Suspenseful, gripping, and packed with action this will appeal to anyone who loves a character-driven, activation-packed read where protagonists are forced to face impossible odds.
December 6, 2019
The Golden Viper encompasses an epic battle, where the stakes are high and the consequences—substantial. “Maybe it was time for the Xortaags to start forming their own alliance. If they could coerce a few other planets to side with them, the balance of power would eventually tip back in their favor.”
It falls to Jim, Kurt, Oksana and Tarq to save humanity as well as every sentient species in the universe from the claws of the Xortaags, who have set their target on Earth to take revenge for their earlier defeat there.
I enjoyed learning that the characters in this journey surprised even the author himself by taking The Golden Viper to places even he didn’t know ahead of time, which attests to the life and independent mindset of Jim, Kurt, and Tark.
Five stars.
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
It falls to Jim, Kurt, Oksana and Tarq to save humanity as well as every sentient species in the universe from the claws of the Xortaags, who have set their target on Earth to take revenge for their earlier defeat there.
I enjoyed learning that the characters in this journey surprised even the author himself by taking The Golden Viper to places even he didn’t know ahead of time, which attests to the life and independent mindset of Jim, Kurt, and Tark.
Five stars.
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2020
A good sequel to Robins' blockbuster The Crimson Deathbringer. The action is back though the story starts slowly. If you haven't read the first book in the series you may be puzzled by some of the references, but don't let that throw you. Lots of good sci-fi references especially if you're a Trekker - the flying ace is back with his wise cracks and macho swashbuckling, good pals, a slut alien, and all the pranks you might expect from his alien sidekick Tarq.
A rip roaring good story with a cliffhanger at the end leading us to the third book in the trilogy.
Can hardly wait to see what the author has up his flying sleeve for the third and final book!
A rip roaring good story with a cliffhanger at the end leading us to the third book in the trilogy.
Can hardly wait to see what the author has up his flying sleeve for the third and final book!
February 17, 2020
Robins created a fine cast of characters in The Crimson Deathbringer, the excellent first book in this series, and I enjoyed reconnecting with some of them in this new adventure. I would have liked to see more arcs, though. In that respect, Viper fell a little short for me. There's one plot choice I couldn't come to grips with -- made me feel less invested in the characters. Also, the end felt rushed. The setup for the next book is intriguing, though, and I'm hoping the character development will match the promised stakes.
May 1, 2021
I still Love the second book in this series, even though I knew what to expect, and I wasn't quite as WOWED as I had been by book1!
I realize that this story ARC is much, much more than one or two books can hold, and so I'm looking forward to the announcement of books 3, 4... maybe even 5 👍!
The humans (our Freedom fighters) may believe that they've washed their hands of the Alien threat, but no it's really just the beginning, because the Xortaags aren't done with us yet, and I expect we're not done with the cowardly, manipulative Arakies either (Damn them), as they may need help too!
CJ Grey's narration was on the money, and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to The Golden Viper!
So join-up with our freedom fighters, Jim and Kurt, and the few others left alive after the devastation brought on by the Crimson Deathbringer (Sean Robins doesn't pull any punches) and let CJ Grey take you on another adventure!
I realize that this story ARC is much, much more than one or two books can hold, and so I'm looking forward to the announcement of books 3, 4... maybe even 5 👍!
The humans (our Freedom fighters) may believe that they've washed their hands of the Alien threat, but no it's really just the beginning, because the Xortaags aren't done with us yet, and I expect we're not done with the cowardly, manipulative Arakies either (Damn them), as they may need help too!
CJ Grey's narration was on the money, and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to The Golden Viper!
So join-up with our freedom fighters, Jim and Kurt, and the few others left alive after the devastation brought on by the Crimson Deathbringer (Sean Robins doesn't pull any punches) and let CJ Grey take you on another adventure!
March 27, 2020
Action, intrigue, humor and sci-fi fun
This follow-up to The Crimson Deathbringer reunited us with some of our favorite characters with all their quirks, attachments and abilities. I'm The Golden Viper, new dangers and new technologies sweep us into another page-turning story of saving the galaxy. A worthy companion to the first book.
This follow-up to The Crimson Deathbringer reunited us with some of our favorite characters with all their quirks, attachments and abilities. I'm The Golden Viper, new dangers and new technologies sweep us into another page-turning story of saving the galaxy. A worthy companion to the first book.
April 5, 2021
Well what can I say but read on.
Well what can I say but read on and enjoy. If you want to know how Jim Kurt and Targ get on and what they do then be prepared for a surprise or two
Well what can I say but read on and enjoy. If you want to know how Jim Kurt and Targ get on and what they do then be prepared for a surprise or two
September 5, 2021
Great addition to series!
A suspenseful and captivating story. Great character depth all characters are very interesting and leaves me wanting to know what happens next to them.
A suspenseful and captivating story. Great character depth all characters are very interesting and leaves me wanting to know what happens next to them.
December 18, 2019
What Made Me Read It I was sent a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I had the opportunity to review the first book in the series, The Crimson Deathbringer, and was curious to see where the story went: how the surviving characters would deal with their losses and prepare against the expected aliens' retaliation for a humiliating defeat.
The Plot Four months have passed since the defeat of the Xortaags' invasion force and Earth is slowly recovering from the loss of 700 million people. Colonel Jim Harrison and Colonel Kurt von der Hagen, trying to move on with their lives while grieving friends and loved ones, agree to help the Akakies liberate 30 planets still under Xortaag control before their indigenous species are annihilated, taking command of a task force of new top-of-the-line starships and Vipers.
Outraged by the humiliation suffered on Earth, the Xortaags make use of the Duplicator to bring back an old foe to lead the counterstrike. But first they need to conquer the Akakies home planet of Kanoor and take possession of their advanced technology. Unable to stop the invasion, Commander Tarq returns to Earth with the remaining Akakie fleet to ask Jim and Kurt's help in defeating the Xortaags once again.
A thousand years into the future, the peaceful Volt suffer an unprovoked attack with obsolete nuclear weapons, bringing their planet and civilization to the brink of extinction. Bent on avenging the deaths and devastation at the hands of the warring carbon-based species responsible for the attack, the silicon-based Volt devise a way to time travel to the past... it won't change the present but if their enemies are destroyed in the past, the future will be avenged.
The Good "The Golden Viper" is the second book in "The Crimson Deathbringer" trilogy, a space opera science fiction series set in the near future of 2049. This sequel expands the scope of the first book by moving the action to planets other than Earth: Kanoor, the homeworld of the insectoid Akakies; Tangaar, the homeworld of the genetically enhanced Xortaags; some of the planets conquered by the Xortaags; and Voltex, 1000 years into the future.
The plot is fast-paced, with thrilling action sequences, intrigue, espionage, and a few twists and turns to keep up the suspense. The story is once again intense, this time not with all the drama of a devastating planetary invasion but the consequences and repercussions of war: the moral dilemmas, the needs of the many outweighing the needs of the few, the number of casualties it takes to make them one too many, drawing a line even when fighting a ruthless enemy.
The book is filled with witty humor, brilliant one-liners and multiple pop culture references. In book #1 it was too much and out of place, the story felt goofy negating all the drama of the plot; but in book #2 it's been toned down considerably and the author found a good balance between tense events and lighthearted moments, making it a much more enjoyable reading experience.
Told in both the 1st and 3rd person, the narrative explores all the different perspectives from all sides of the conflict, this time not just the humans and the Xortaags but also the Akakies and the Volts, with all the psychological range of expected emotions and reactions. The characters are complex, 3-dimensional and believable, with realistic goals and motivations. The recurring characters - Jim, Kurt, Oksana, Maada - show emotional growth from book #1 while dealing with feeling of loss, guilt and even identity; the new characters - the defector spy Xornaa, the 3 Xortaag princes, the Volt scientist Fartaz - add an extra layer of complexity to the story and help set up the final book of the series.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 5 of 5 stars "The Golden Viper" is the second book in "The Crimson Deathbringer" trilogy, a space opera science fiction series set in the near future of 2049, with an engaging plot, thrilling action sequences, suspense, and plenty of witty humor and pop culture references. Recommended for those who enjoy space opera novels and stories about alien invasions and resistance, with all the moral dilemmas connected with the repercussions of war.
The Plot Four months have passed since the defeat of the Xortaags' invasion force and Earth is slowly recovering from the loss of 700 million people. Colonel Jim Harrison and Colonel Kurt von der Hagen, trying to move on with their lives while grieving friends and loved ones, agree to help the Akakies liberate 30 planets still under Xortaag control before their indigenous species are annihilated, taking command of a task force of new top-of-the-line starships and Vipers.
Outraged by the humiliation suffered on Earth, the Xortaags make use of the Duplicator to bring back an old foe to lead the counterstrike. But first they need to conquer the Akakies home planet of Kanoor and take possession of their advanced technology. Unable to stop the invasion, Commander Tarq returns to Earth with the remaining Akakie fleet to ask Jim and Kurt's help in defeating the Xortaags once again.
A thousand years into the future, the peaceful Volt suffer an unprovoked attack with obsolete nuclear weapons, bringing their planet and civilization to the brink of extinction. Bent on avenging the deaths and devastation at the hands of the warring carbon-based species responsible for the attack, the silicon-based Volt devise a way to time travel to the past... it won't change the present but if their enemies are destroyed in the past, the future will be avenged.
The Good "The Golden Viper" is the second book in "The Crimson Deathbringer" trilogy, a space opera science fiction series set in the near future of 2049. This sequel expands the scope of the first book by moving the action to planets other than Earth: Kanoor, the homeworld of the insectoid Akakies; Tangaar, the homeworld of the genetically enhanced Xortaags; some of the planets conquered by the Xortaags; and Voltex, 1000 years into the future.
The plot is fast-paced, with thrilling action sequences, intrigue, espionage, and a few twists and turns to keep up the suspense. The story is once again intense, this time not with all the drama of a devastating planetary invasion but the consequences and repercussions of war: the moral dilemmas, the needs of the many outweighing the needs of the few, the number of casualties it takes to make them one too many, drawing a line even when fighting a ruthless enemy.
The book is filled with witty humor, brilliant one-liners and multiple pop culture references. In book #1 it was too much and out of place, the story felt goofy negating all the drama of the plot; but in book #2 it's been toned down considerably and the author found a good balance between tense events and lighthearted moments, making it a much more enjoyable reading experience.
Told in both the 1st and 3rd person, the narrative explores all the different perspectives from all sides of the conflict, this time not just the humans and the Xortaags but also the Akakies and the Volts, with all the psychological range of expected emotions and reactions. The characters are complex, 3-dimensional and believable, with realistic goals and motivations. The recurring characters - Jim, Kurt, Oksana, Maada - show emotional growth from book #1 while dealing with feeling of loss, guilt and even identity; the new characters - the defector spy Xornaa, the 3 Xortaag princes, the Volt scientist Fartaz - add an extra layer of complexity to the story and help set up the final book of the series.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 5 of 5 stars "The Golden Viper" is the second book in "The Crimson Deathbringer" trilogy, a space opera science fiction series set in the near future of 2049, with an engaging plot, thrilling action sequences, suspense, and plenty of witty humor and pop culture references. Recommended for those who enjoy space opera novels and stories about alien invasions and resistance, with all the moral dilemmas connected with the repercussions of war.
May 4, 2021
A shame that non scifi fans will understand
Apart that a great book recommended to all even non scifi fans.
Bear in mind that this a sequel to another great book.
Apart that a great book recommended to all even non scifi fans.
Bear in mind that this a sequel to another great book.
March 25, 2023
Fun Series space opera
I enjoyed this second in the series. I like all sorts of sci-fi this fills in an area I enjoy. I will look forward to my next download.
I enjoyed this second in the series. I like all sorts of sci-fi this fills in an area I enjoy. I will look forward to my next download.
April 29, 2020
With Book II in The Crimson Deathbringer Trilogy we are reacquainted with Jim, Kurt, and Tarq! This starts up right after Tarq saved all of humanity using humans to defeat the Xortaags! New mission-taking back all the planets the Xortaags have conquered. But a surprise awaits them when they learn that the Xortaags who are known for stealing technologies of alien races and copying it, have in their possession an alien machine called the “Duplicator”! Tarq calls this operation Endgame!
Meanwhile, in the future, the Vox have developed a time funnel that allows them to travel back in time. Their objective-kill off all the carbon-based aliens!
This is a great sequel to the first book! The author brings back great characters, nonstop action with good twists and turns that keep us readers wanting more! Really looking forward to the third book because you can bet there is an epic battle brewing!
Meanwhile, in the future, the Vox have developed a time funnel that allows them to travel back in time. Their objective-kill off all the carbon-based aliens!
This is a great sequel to the first book! The author brings back great characters, nonstop action with good twists and turns that keep us readers wanting more! Really looking forward to the third book because you can bet there is an epic battle brewing!
January 5, 2020
Excellent sequel
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed The Crimson Deathbringer, I was delighted to see a sequel had been published and immediately preordered it. Once again, the great cast of characters is assembled as intergalactic war threatens the humans and akakies alike. This time, the warships are bigger, faster and more powerful and things get even worse for Jim and Tarq when their Nemesis, General Maad returns from the dead, in the form of a clone, and all out war looms.
Unbeknownst to both sides, however, a species so far unknown to either side is plotting to wipe out all carbon-based lifeforms in the galaxy.
This is a great, action packed follow up to the first book in the series. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next installment of the series. Five stars, for sure.
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed The Crimson Deathbringer, I was delighted to see a sequel had been published and immediately preordered it. Once again, the great cast of characters is assembled as intergalactic war threatens the humans and akakies alike. This time, the warships are bigger, faster and more powerful and things get even worse for Jim and Tarq when their Nemesis, General Maad returns from the dead, in the form of a clone, and all out war looms.
Unbeknownst to both sides, however, a species so far unknown to either side is plotting to wipe out all carbon-based lifeforms in the galaxy.
This is a great, action packed follow up to the first book in the series. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next installment of the series. Five stars, for sure.
February 25, 2023
Crimson Deathbringer series
This has turned out to be a really great series. I'm really enjoying the authors OCD, and his love of old syfi it's something I can relate to and it makes for some really fun reading. I'd recommend these books to any Battlestar, Trekies, or Michael Anderle fans.
This has turned out to be a really great series. I'm really enjoying the authors OCD, and his love of old syfi it's something I can relate to and it makes for some really fun reading. I'd recommend these books to any Battlestar, Trekies, or Michael Anderle fans.
December 22, 2019
A brief four months have passed since the ending of Book One. This book was a nice segway into an all-encompassing battle. The characters have remained intriguing and snarky.
Keeping with the Space Opera feel the author still led us into an environment with a lot more variety in creatures, some who are not that nice. There are a few surprises and twists that help keep the reader trying to figure out what is going to happen next.
There was a slight lull in the story and some of the pranks seemed a little forced. However, that may have been me as a reader or the author moving us along to what I hope will be an epic Book Three. Even so, I enjoy the characters and conversations and eagerly look forward to Book 3.
Keeping with the Space Opera feel the author still led us into an environment with a lot more variety in creatures, some who are not that nice. There are a few surprises and twists that help keep the reader trying to figure out what is going to happen next.
There was a slight lull in the story and some of the pranks seemed a little forced. However, that may have been me as a reader or the author moving us along to what I hope will be an epic Book Three. Even so, I enjoy the characters and conversations and eagerly look forward to Book 3.
October 5, 2019
The author, with his usual tongue-in-cheek sense of humor, says "Sequels are notorious for being not as good the original book/movies, but there are always exceptions." Well, I declare this book an exception to that rule. It's written with the same style of the first book, with one major difference: behind all the jokes and banters, a sense of loss dominates the story, starting from the very beginning when Jim tells her dead wife "I miss you three thousand" and ending in the very last line of the book where he loses... I can't tell you who he loses there, it's a major surprise. Speaking of a surprise, the book is full of them. If you liked the first book, you will like this one too.
October 30, 2019
More exciting intergalactic rumpus from Sean Robins.
If you loved THE CRIMSON DEATHBRINGER, you can expect more of the same, except this time the stakes are seven-hundred-million times higher. Humorous and harrowing, THE GOLDEN VIPER is riddled with sharp surprises and bitter betrayals. No muddle in the middle here; this action-packed sequel is as good as the first, and sets up nicely for the final conflict in THE BLACK FLEET.
If you loved THE CRIMSON DEATHBRINGER, you can expect more of the same, except this time the stakes are seven-hundred-million times higher. Humorous and harrowing, THE GOLDEN VIPER is riddled with sharp surprises and bitter betrayals. No muddle in the middle here; this action-packed sequel is as good as the first, and sets up nicely for the final conflict in THE BLACK FLEET.
January 2, 2020
Interstellar,inter-species, temporal squabble.
Cool cover art! I've enjoyed both books so far! Told in first person point of view perspective, coupled with other characters point of view. Humor thrown in, with skillfully woven vague references to all of our acknowledged human foibles, and etc. All good Sci-Fi has it, so future readers can have a ah- ha moment. Rollicking and rolling good story, doesn't get bogged down.
Cool cover art! I've enjoyed both books so far! Told in first person point of view perspective, coupled with other characters point of view. Humor thrown in, with skillfully woven vague references to all of our acknowledged human foibles, and etc. All good Sci-Fi has it, so future readers can have a ah- ha moment. Rollicking and rolling good story, doesn't get bogged down.
November 25, 2019
Jim, Kurt, and little Tarq return with new adventures. Humanity was saved in the first book, but now the Zortaggs have returned. Earth is the next target. All humanity is at stake. With multiple species fighting, chaos reigns. There are new characters and numerous twists and turns. And time travel. I love time travel stories.
February 4, 2023
an interesting series
This second book in this series was just as entertaining as the first. With interesting characters and an intriguing storyline it was a fun read. Follow along on the adventures. And questions your ethics of when is it morally right to commit genocide.
This second book in this series was just as entertaining as the first. With interesting characters and an intriguing storyline it was a fun read. Follow along on the adventures. And questions your ethics of when is it morally right to commit genocide.
January 14, 2022
This is the second of the series. In this book Jim develops as a pilot and as a person. He must continue to fight to keep Earth free and expand his group of friends.
Outstanding narration
Outstanding narration
August 2, 2022
An excellent SiFi adventure with great characters and captivating story.
August 6, 2020
The adventures of Jim, Tarq, and Kurt continued. As in the first book, I enjoyed Jim’s references to Star Wars, Star Trek, Game of Thrones, etc. This is the same thing that so many of us sci-fi/fantasy nerds do, so I related with that aspect of Jim. My opinion of Tarq changed a little bit in this book (not going to give spoilers) and I think that Kurt has become my favorite character.
The light hearted banter directly opposed the very serious subject of the extinction of entire planets and species. It’s a pretty heavy subject but somehow the relationship between the characters helps get us through it.
Definitely interested in following up on this story in the next book.
The light hearted banter directly opposed the very serious subject of the extinction of entire planets and species. It’s a pretty heavy subject but somehow the relationship between the characters helps get us through it.
Definitely interested in following up on this story in the next book.
July 18, 2023
Great stuff
This is shaping up to be a great series. Sean Robins has created a complex plot with constant twists. Great characters that he is not afraid to invest in making you care about and then simply killing them off. An action packed storyline and the beginning of the next crisis to engulf the universe make you want to read the next book. Great stuff, highly recommended for lovers of military Sci-fi with a dose of humour.
This is shaping up to be a great series. Sean Robins has created a complex plot with constant twists. Great characters that he is not afraid to invest in making you care about and then simply killing them off. An action packed storyline and the beginning of the next crisis to engulf the universe make you want to read the next book. Great stuff, highly recommended for lovers of military Sci-fi with a dose of humour.
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