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The Augmented #1
Empire of Ashes
Across thousands of planets in the Krey Empire, all humans have a single title... Slave. Born to oppression, Siena is an ordinary young woman, until an act of defiance leaves her scarred and marked as a rebel. She's sold to Ero, a fallen Krey with a desperate plan to redeem his once-powerful family. He intends to enhance slaves by altering their genetic code, increasing their value through an illegal experiment. Reklin, a bone-armored soldier, hunts them both. His orders come from a mysterious source, but his loyalty to the Empire has no limits. Noble, soldier, and slave, they are about to discover a dangerous truth–that humans can be augmented. But none can predict the abilities they'll unlock, or the rebellion they'll unleash. Experience the start of an Epic Space Opera Saga from #1 Amazon Bestseller Ben Hale. It's perfect for lovers of both Star Wars and Star Trek, as well as fans of authors such as Chris Fox, J.N. Chaney, and Lindsay Buroker.
485 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2021
107 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Ben Hale
50 books352 followersAs an avid snowboarder from Utah, Ben grew up with a passion for learning. This thirst for knowledge led him to sports, music, and academic endeavors. After a year of college, he did volunteer work in Brazil and became fluent in three languages. Graduating from the University of Central Florida, he started and ran several successful businesses before publishing his first novel in June of 2012. By the end of the year he'd sold almost ten thousand copies of The Second Draeken War, and he began writing full-time. Now spanning 10,000 years, ten titles, and two series, The Chronicles of Lumineia represents a sprawling YA series that has sold over fifty thousand copies, and continues to expand its readership across all ages. Each of his books has been inspired by his wonderful wife and five beautiful children.
To contact the author, discover more about Lumineia, or find out about upcoming novels, check out his website at Lumineia.com. You can also follow Ben on twitter @ BenHale8 or on Facebook.
To contact the author, discover more about Lumineia, or find out about upcoming novels, check out his website at Lumineia.com. You can also follow Ben on twitter @ BenHale8 or on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 18, 2021
3 stars. It disappoints me to give this rating as "Empire of Ashes" is at its heart a very interesting and well-crafted space opera that had more potential than this. However, the editing is - in a word - awful, with numerous basic spelling or tense errors among others being present*. In fact, the mistakes were literally so frequent that it became a major distraction and interupted the flow on more than a few occasions. And as a former technical writer by trade, I was taken aback that this was allowed to proceed as such.
But to focus on the positive: Hale has created an fascinating, multi-layered Universe that is full of, if not too many outright shocking surprises, then certainly its fair share of intrigue. It definitely qualifies as a bona fide "space opera"! The interaction between the 3 featured (main?) species - as well as the caste structures of at least 2 of them (for now) - is genuinely extremely thrilling. Perhaps best of all were the ever-burgeoning number of political machinations that were revealed, all of which I thought were truly well-handled and -plotted.
In fact, the abundance and even subtle double- and triple-crossings going on reminded me very favorably of some of either John Scalzi's offers (esp. "Old Man's War") or even Rhett Bruno's best works (including two of my all-time favorite series by ANY author, namely, "Children of Titan" and "The Circuit"). Hale's characterizations throughout are well-formed and the ability of each actor to show just a little more than what was perhaps apparent at first glance is very appreciated. And speaking of appreciation, I was also glad that Hale decided to give us just enough technical info on his ships, gate technology or even weaponry among others to support the story without overwhelming it.
A lot is going on and will be going on in the coming chapters, that is clear. It was an interesting ride just to go on the limited "journey" we've been on so far and there are certainly a number of mysteries waiting to be solved! In fact, my curiosity is certainly very high to see how this series continues as I think this first book has laid some excellent groundwork from which to build. I just hope that the text gets the kind of reviewing it deserves for the coming chapters.
**I even started copying and pasting a few random editing "hiccups" just to show what I mean:
"The Fell Shadow resembled a bird souring beside a mountain." (I hope we mean "soaring" and not 'souring'... because that would be a rather gross ship...)
“If we were such a threat, why didn’t the Empire move against us before our rise?” he asked. “We wait until we were ranked fourth?” (first 'we' should be a 'why' or...?)
"Skorn smiled faintly as he reclined in the pilot’s seat. “Why? This was much more fun.”
Ero claimed the pilot’s seat. “You knew she would come after me,” he accused."
(2 guys, one chair. Maybe co-pilot's seat?)
"Kensen spoken little, and Siena spoken even less." (yeah)
And so on... anyway, just a few. I get paid to find mistakes, I didn't want to spend time doing someone else's job for free...
But to focus on the positive: Hale has created an fascinating, multi-layered Universe that is full of, if not too many outright shocking surprises, then certainly its fair share of intrigue. It definitely qualifies as a bona fide "space opera"! The interaction between the 3 featured (main?) species - as well as the caste structures of at least 2 of them (for now) - is genuinely extremely thrilling. Perhaps best of all were the ever-burgeoning number of political machinations that were revealed, all of which I thought were truly well-handled and -plotted.
In fact, the abundance and even subtle double- and triple-crossings going on reminded me very favorably of some of either John Scalzi's offers (esp. "Old Man's War") or even Rhett Bruno's best works (including two of my all-time favorite series by ANY author, namely, "Children of Titan" and "The Circuit"). Hale's characterizations throughout are well-formed and the ability of each actor to show just a little more than what was perhaps apparent at first glance is very appreciated. And speaking of appreciation, I was also glad that Hale decided to give us just enough technical info on his ships, gate technology or even weaponry among others to support the story without overwhelming it.
A lot is going on and will be going on in the coming chapters, that is clear. It was an interesting ride just to go on the limited "journey" we've been on so far and there are certainly a number of mysteries waiting to be solved! In fact, my curiosity is certainly very high to see how this series continues as I think this first book has laid some excellent groundwork from which to build. I just hope that the text gets the kind of reviewing it deserves for the coming chapters.
**I even started copying and pasting a few random editing "hiccups" just to show what I mean:
"The Fell Shadow resembled a bird souring beside a mountain." (I hope we mean "soaring" and not 'souring'... because that would be a rather gross ship...)
“If we were such a threat, why didn’t the Empire move against us before our rise?” he asked. “We wait until we were ranked fourth?” (first 'we' should be a 'why' or...?)
"Skorn smiled faintly as he reclined in the pilot’s seat. “Why? This was much more fun.”
Ero claimed the pilot’s seat. “You knew she would come after me,” he accused."
(2 guys, one chair. Maybe co-pilot's seat?)
"Kensen spoken little, and Siena spoken even less." (yeah)
And so on... anyway, just a few. I get paid to find mistakes, I didn't want to spend time doing someone else's job for free...
October 18, 2021
Could barely put it down. Story is intriguing!! Editorial mistakes a plenty… but easy to overcome. Loving this author.
May 5, 2021
Calling this "epic" seems a bit over the top, but if the rest of the series keeps up with this it'll be true.
Hale has created a hugely ambitious setting -- a galaxy-spanning empire with breathtaking technology, effectively immortal rulers, a ruthless warrior race, and an uncountable number of humans, ever single one of whom is a slave. Thankfully, he didn't skimp on also developing the main characters, who gain in complexity as they go on. The three main characters in particular are, generally, very interesting.
The one area where I thought this could have been better developed--and the one star off--was in the plot. Without going into spoiler territory, the story develops unevenly. There are some moments where there are genuine twists, but at other points the book's evolution is telegraphed well in advance. Empire of Ashes brims with unexpected detail and nuances, but isn't always subtle.
There are also some small discontinuities that tended to break my immersion -- the major one being, ok, if the ruling kreys are so advanced, why do they need so many slaves? They apparently have machines that do many of their functions, so why go to the expense? Pets? Also, I found it implausible that the two top species have effectively been "perfected" but their technology somehow can't untangle the flawed human genome.
These are minor quibbles, though. On the whole, this was a great, fun read. I'd look forward to getting my hands on the follow-on books.
June 5, 2021
Initially I had trouble finding my balance listening to the book... it felt flat and very info dumpy, right from the start. Perhaps that's what made it impossible for me to suspend my disbelief, and if you can't manage to do that, it doesn't bode well for the book...
So, I put the book down for a while. When I picked the book up for a second time, somewhat later, I had an epiphany! It wasn't the writer's fault at all. I realized I didn't care for Jay Snyder's performance, his voice is pleasant enough, but I found his delivery rather flat, and that's what had bugged me! The other two narrators were great, btw, and once I figured out what my issue was, I found myself able to sit down and enjoy the story! (Yes, even Jay Snyder's part, after a bit ...)
Over-all I'll give the story ⭐⭐⭐⭐ because I want to follow the action of Sienna, Ero, and Rekin as they face unknown danger!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reba Buhr
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Eric Michael Summerer
⭐⭐⭐ Jay Snyder
So, I put the book down for a while. When I picked the book up for a second time, somewhat later, I had an epiphany! It wasn't the writer's fault at all. I realized I didn't care for Jay Snyder's performance, his voice is pleasant enough, but I found his delivery rather flat, and that's what had bugged me! The other two narrators were great, btw, and once I figured out what my issue was, I found myself able to sit down and enjoy the story! (Yes, even Jay Snyder's part, after a bit ...)
Over-all I'll give the story ⭐⭐⭐⭐ because I want to follow the action of Sienna, Ero, and Rekin as they face unknown danger!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reba Buhr
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Eric Michael Summerer
⭐⭐⭐ Jay Snyder
June 18, 2021
Quite a few storylines into tangled in the book, not enough action, too much world building for my taste.
First of all let me say this is a very interesting book. Unfortunately I found that there were too many storylines that after a while did intersect with each other but there was too much to keep track of. I thought I was going to read a book about a augmented slave girl, I didn’t expect to also read about two brothers trying to reestablish their house, as well as a top flight spec ops group. Too much too soon and an opening series. There was plenty of world building and some great character development but not enough action. The book was worth reading I am going on to read the next one.
First of all let me say this is a very interesting book. Unfortunately I found that there were too many storylines that after a while did intersect with each other but there was too much to keep track of. I thought I was going to read a book about a augmented slave girl, I didn’t expect to also read about two brothers trying to reestablish their house, as well as a top flight spec ops group. Too much too soon and an opening series. There was plenty of world building and some great character development but not enough action. The book was worth reading I am going on to read the next one.
May 10, 2021
Received as an ARC copy, this is an honest review. With humanity's only value in vast Krey empire is to enslaved; there's only so much time until that changes. All Siena wanted was to be not bullied by the other slaves but it only brought her trouble, marking her as a rebel and a threat the Krey won't stand for. It would send Siena down a road where there secrets that could give humanity a chance at having freedom they've longed for. With its well crafted narrative, highly detailed alien cultures and character development gives this story a wondrous beginning to an edgy series... highly recommended.
June 23, 2023
First book in a 3 part bundle: Empire of Ashes.
This was a good book about Reklin, Ero, Skorn and Siena, 3 different species, 2 of which have trillions of slaves called animals but are really humans. And there's a scientist who is trying to make the slaves faster and stronger so they'll sell for more "Glint" (more money.) This should get more interesting as it goes on.
There's no romance and no swearing.
As for the narrators: Fabulous! Eric Michael Summerer, Jay Snyder and Reba Buhr do great jobs with the voices and emotions when the read.
This was a good book about Reklin, Ero, Skorn and Siena, 3 different species, 2 of which have trillions of slaves called animals but are really humans. And there's a scientist who is trying to make the slaves faster and stronger so they'll sell for more "Glint" (more money.) This should get more interesting as it goes on.
There's no romance and no swearing.
As for the narrators: Fabulous! Eric Michael Summerer, Jay Snyder and Reba Buhr do great jobs with the voices and emotions when the read.
May 6, 2021
Ero and Skorn Bright’Lor maybe the last remaining scions of an ancient dying house now tilting into the dark abyss of space. They face extinction, hunted to death by mad men consolidating power. Add thousand year immortal merciless fae like creatures who own planets for harvesting humans, demon soldiers and one defiantly deadly human slave girl Siena and you have a grim space fairytale in the making.
September 16, 2021
Very good series so far! Kind of the same sort of feel as Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn if you’ve read that. Very thoughtfully and cleverly written. The technology in the book is even quite original and interesting. I’m a little ways into the second book as I’m writing this review and it really seems like this series is set up to last for a good long run of books — I’m definitely here for it if the quality of the story keeps being this high :)
May 4, 2021
Fun read with interesting characters, creative world building and engaging plot. While the character development felt a bit rushed (trust between natural enemies happening way too fast), it really didn't spoil the overall story.
The book does not come anywhere near finishing the story, so be prepared to buy more books to find out what's going on.
The book does not come anywhere near finishing the story, so be prepared to buy more books to find out what's going on.
July 1, 2021
Fantastic!
As always been he’ll never disappoints! In this opening novel to an epic saga he does it again! I’m an avid been healthy and ever since My first foray into his world of lumina. Every book has been well worth the price paid for it. He does a fantastic job of creating a world and characters are both relatable to an inspiring. Haven’t missed a book yet and don’t intend to. Definitely a writer who will outlive our generation.
As always been he’ll never disappoints! In this opening novel to an epic saga he does it again! I’m an avid been healthy and ever since My first foray into his world of lumina. Every book has been well worth the price paid for it. He does a fantastic job of creating a world and characters are both relatable to an inspiring. Haven’t missed a book yet and don’t intend to. Definitely a writer who will outlive our generation.
November 19, 2021
Intriguing history
This really shows where the other books came from, without seeming out of place. You could easily start reading from here and not feel like you're going backward even when you're going forward in time. This is a fun history lesson for the Chronicles and I am so excited to see where I goes from here!
This really shows where the other books came from, without seeming out of place. You could easily start reading from here and not feel like you're going backward even when you're going forward in time. This is a fun history lesson for the Chronicles and I am so excited to see where I goes from here!
May 22, 2022
I enjoyed it immensely. I read less these days and this book I read fast. The subject, word building, writing style, characters were engaging. This fear, that we will be conquered by aliens, just pray on our nature; we like to fight, to dominate, to conquer. The civilisation we are proud of is the first thing to forget in war time. Looking forward for book two.
November 22, 2022
Engrossing
This is a very engrossing book that makes you excited to read the next book in the series. In this book there are three races that have intelligence, the key (the overlords), the dakorians (warrior class), and the humans (the slave class). The interaction between the races is complex and deadly with some humorous moments.
This is a very engrossing book that makes you excited to read the next book in the series. In this book there are three races that have intelligence, the key (the overlords), the dakorians (warrior class), and the humans (the slave class). The interaction between the races is complex and deadly with some humorous moments.
June 11, 2021
A dark view of the past or future
An amazingly good book and I can't wait to read more from this series.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action and intrigue.
Human slaves, alien master's and maybe a dragon.
Into the next one 😀
An amazingly good book and I can't wait to read more from this series.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action and intrigue.
Human slaves, alien master's and maybe a dragon.
Into the next one 😀
dnf-not-for-me
May 23, 20211/10: Couldn't get past the first few chapters; not for me.
June 3, 2021
Decent
A bit of a slow burn, but well worth the wait, look forward to the rest of the series. Already pre ordered them
A bit of a slow burn, but well worth the wait, look forward to the rest of the series. Already pre ordered them
August 1, 2021
So looking forward to the main empire getting its comeuppance in the future books
September 22, 2023
Awesome book. Loved the storyline. Wished more science fiction was like this.
January 5, 2024
A brilliant start to the series.
September 22, 2025
Great book loved the story can’t wait to listen to the next one I highly recommend this book 👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️😃
March 22, 2024
The world building in this book is truly fascinating but it’s the relationships that really stood out to me. The characters all have rich and complex histories that despite all odds have brought them all together. I can’t wait to see how it all plays out!
Favorite Quote:
“Well?” he asked.
“What do you want?” she asked.
“Do I have to start using the inflictor?” Ero asked. Brand actually rolled her eyes. “You know you’re not going to use it.”
“I will if you roll your eyes at me,” Ero said caustically, irritated at her lack of respect. “Now give me the truth.”
“You’re just annoyed you weren’t here for the fight.” He stabbed a finger at the impertinent girl and opened his mouth for a quick retort, but the lie would not be voiced. She was right, and they both knew it. His teeth snapped shut as he grumbled. “I taught you to fight. The least you could do is wait for me.”
Favorite Quote:
“Well?” he asked.
“What do you want?” she asked.
“Do I have to start using the inflictor?” Ero asked. Brand actually rolled her eyes. “You know you’re not going to use it.”
“I will if you roll your eyes at me,” Ero said caustically, irritated at her lack of respect. “Now give me the truth.”
“You’re just annoyed you weren’t here for the fight.” He stabbed a finger at the impertinent girl and opened his mouth for a quick retort, but the lie would not be voiced. She was right, and they both knew it. His teeth snapped shut as he grumbled. “I taught you to fight. The least you could do is wait for me.”
September 13, 2021
Another exceptional piece of work by Ben Hale. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews