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Galaxy's Edge #13

Dark Victory

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The Darkest Secrets Stay Hidden
Galaxy’s Edge Season Two continues as a divided galaxy is navigated by heroes forced to chart their own dangerous courses.

Wraith, seeking to acquire intel on the mysterious Kill Team Ice, finds himself teamed up with an unlikely Nether Ops ally. Zora and Garret, in pursuit of a lost friend, will have their loyalty to Captain Keel tested. And the strain on Nilo and Black Leaf continues to grow, with unexpected intensity.

For all of them, the path forward is a crooked one, weaving through House of Reason loyalists, Bronze Guild bounty hunters, brutal slavers, Legion operators, and the mysteries now emerging from the empty and foreboding space beyond galaxy’s edge. And each step along that path only seems to reveal a new, darker truth about what’s coming for them.

But one thing is increasingly certain. War is brewing.

295 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 17, 2021

137 people are currently reading
194 people want to read

About the author

Jason Anspach

191 books851 followers
JASON ANSPACH is the author of Galaxy's Edge, Wayward Galaxy, Forgotten Ruin. and more.

He lives in Puyallup, WA with his wife and their seven (not a typo) children.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Benjamin Espen.
269 reviews26 followers
August 30, 2021
Dark Victory by Jason Anspach and Nick Cole is in a way a return to normal. However, what that means in this case is not a sense of peace and clear, sunshiny days. The rise and fall of Goth Sullus and the governmental reset forced by the Legion’s invocation of its right to depose the legislature under Article Nineteen have shifted the balance of power, but even events as cataclysmic as these did not alter the nature of the factions that jostle within the galaxy.

Those factions are once again pursuing their own ends using all the resources at their disposal. Plans are in motion, alliances are being made, obstacles are being removed. The fundamental question remains: whom do you serve?

Unfortunately, at Galaxy’s Edge, the true answer to that question, what lies in the hearts of men, is never as simple as the uniform one wears. Because the true fight is not against other men [or even aliens], but against principalities and powers. The stakes are far higher than mere death and destruction. And precisely because the contest is spiritual in nature, the dividing line between good and evil runs through the hearts of men.

However, despite the combat prowess of the characters, almost everyone is unprepared for the fight they find themselves in. Spiritual warfare requires spiritual weapons, but everyone is running around unarmed. Religion is almost never mentioned in Galaxy’s Edge. As a stylistic choice, I find this appropriate. The book that started all this, Legionnaire, is Afghanistan in spaaace. We get things from the grunt’s point of view, and while there may not be atheists in foxholes, the invincible young men that fight our wars for us tend not to be the most devoutly religious.

Thus, when evil does arise, our heroes like Aeson Keel and Arkaddy Nilo must fall back on the tools they have: breaking stuff and killing people. And we get to see a lot of that in Dark Victory. Far be it for me to suggest that the servants of evil should not be opposed with force with required. However, I will suggest that the thing that Aeson Keel cannot do with his blaster is bring about healing and reconciliation.

Violence, being a blunt instrument, cannot wipe away the mourner’s tears or reconcile brothers to one another. In a divided galaxy, there is also a serious risk that those who do seek to serve the true and the good may find themselves at odds with possible allies through deceit or just simple misunderstanding. And since the true history of the galaxy is rife with secrets, many of which we get glimpses of here, the chances of deceit and misunderstanding increase.

The fate of the galaxy likely will depend upon whether men of good will can band together in common cause. The wicked may triumph not only if good men stand by and do nothing, but if also if sufficient discord is sewn to waste their time and energies in fruitless disputes. That is a real challenge for a man who is quick with a gun.

I received a review copy from the authors.
Profile Image for Jen.
2,181 reviews154 followers
September 15, 2021
OK I'm not at all sure I want to continue with the series at this point. From the beginning, the whole story is rather disjointed - I finally know who the characters are (and some of the aliens) but things are just all over the place. The story takes its time getting to the point. And honestly, despite RC Bray's magnificent narration, I don't think I really even care about the characters anymore. This "episode" didn't even address one of the most critical characters to the story. I feel like I'm reading a script for a tv show - which might be great, but in this case, just isn't ringing true with me.
Profile Image for Jim.
1,240 reviews51 followers
September 27, 2021
Last time we were with Captain Ford, he was fighting for his and Garret's lives on some space station when he met up with Zora, another bounty hunter. But, she wasn't after the bounty that had been placed on Wraith. She assisted him and Garret in getting off the space station alive. What that was happening, the Indelible VI was in serious trouble with Leenah at the controls. She was getting shot up something terrible and if she didn't do something quick, the ship and her were going to be destroyed. So she jumped. A blind jump to who knows where.

We go aboard the Indelible VI and find out just how bad a shape the ship is. It's drifting in deep space close to nothing. Leenah has came to and finds herself trapped in the ships cockpit. It's sealed since the back side of the ship had so many holes in it that there was no way an atmosphere could be maintained. While she didn't know the extent of that damage, she knew that she was low on power and low on everything else. She couldn't get the navigation console running without power and she knew that the air and live support systems wouldn't last long on their own. What she needed to do was get some kind of broadcast going so someone could find her. She didn't exactly know who that someone might be, but she was certainly going to die if she wasn't found and soon!

Captain Ford has Honey, the Nether Ops agent that should have a lot information he's seeking or at least know how to find what he wants to know. She's not necessarily going to give him everything he wants, but she's willing to do as much as she can to keep from getting turned over to Mr. Nilo and Jack. Jack, Mr. Nilo's spy, knows that Honey was involved in getting him almost killed, so he wants to return the favor. Captain Ford is supposed to meet up with and join Mr. Nilo Black Leaf forces, but he's got some other things to do first. And one of them was to meet up with his former Dark Ops/Legionaries Kill Team Victory.

We bounce back out to Prisma and Ravi on the derelict Savage starship doing something the weird AI in control of the ship is generating. I'm not sure what this part of the book is doing although we do get to hear from Prisma's mother and that's kind of surprising. She turns out to be pretty powerful, but not so much that Ravi and Prisma re free to go back to find Captain Ford and Leenah. That's what Prisma now wants to do, but she's got to get off this ship first.

Back to Captain Ford, he's enlisted the aid of his former Dark Ops team now headed by Bear to help him find more Nether Ops operators that might know something about this Kill Team Ice that he was supposed to have been a part of a long, long time ago. He has no recollection of every being on any time like that, but there are strong indications that he was there along with Tyrus Rechs.

Zora and Garret had been left with Mr. Nilo and his organization to be kept safe. Additionally, Mr. Nilo and Garret were apparently geek-heads and shared some very similar skills. While Garret was messing around in Mr. Nilo's luxury space yacht, he stumbled across a beacon that he recognized as coming from the Indelible VI. So, he convinced Mr. Nilo to go follow that signal and see if they could find Leenah and the Indelible VI. Garrett had never given up on the idea that Leenah was still alive and now he had more hope that ever. Only things are not turning out so well for Leenah. Someone has found her alright, but it's probably the worst case scenario that could possible happen to her. The Gamorri have taken her and the Indelible VI aboard their huge slave ship and were headed to a slave auction out on the edge of the galaxy.

So, there's a lot of stuff going on with this book and it's kind of long, but the reading is easy and very interesting. I'm not sure what this Kill Team Ice is all about, but there are some strange things going on with a few of our characters. They should be very, very old, but they are not and why can't they remember an apparently significant part of their existence? More to come in book 13, "Convergence", available for pre-order or wait until 16 November 2021.
Profile Image for C.L..
Author 1 book17 followers
August 31, 2021
The second season is packed tighter than ever with action, intrigue

The first season of Galaxy's Edge was an amazing introduction into the worlds that comprised the galaxy at the mercy of a self-serving government, the Legion that fought for it until its true nature was discovered, hard-core military sci-fi with relatable characters, and power struggles --- until Article 19 needed to be enforced to bring justice back to the citizens, human and alien, and remove the tyranny the House of Reason had been guilty of. Dark Victory is a wrap up of exceptional value from Book 11 in the Galaxy's Edge series. It forewarns of yet another power shift of incredible evil coming forth to strain a tenuous peace the Legion has been trying to restore with help from Dark Ops. It also clears up potential cliffhangers from Book 11, tying the series' many woven characters and storylines into a cohesive new track that creates an addictive read. The authors have created an excellent setting for the playing field in what should be considered the best military sci-fi series available in the 21st Century... and offers everything lovers of older science fiction can easily get into and on-board with. Galaxy's Edge has every bit the draw of traditional fantasy - like Game of Thrones - in its layered political power players and military strategy and might without the unnecessary over the top gratuitous sexual explicitness and language. It's a series that isn't afraid to look at the nature of humanity (or its own alien species that make science fiction fun) and show both the flaws and the admirable. The authors are great students of understanding societal trends and how shifts can be either a serious danger or a means to a better path without being preachy or indicating that there is ever one correct way to handle delicate subjects or debatable situations. Galaxy's Edge is easily rewriting how science fiction can address common themes in real life through relatable fantasy; the authors show that one doesn't have to make great sci-fi fit into a specific way of viewing real life but an opportunity to remain freely imaginative and explore ideas in ways that are entertaining and often inspiring. I found Dark Victory to be my favorite book in Season Two and am anxious to continue the saga.
172 reviews4 followers
May 20, 2022
Again, a very good episode of Season 2. No Prisma this time, but she'll return in the next book(s), so we're told by the authors themselves at the very end, where a Q&A podcast is included (audiobook version).

The Nilo character is a bit more fleshed out, as is Gareth. Jack returns, and of course Keel, our favorite (except when Rechs is around, but in this book he's not). The little war bot Death Destroyer of Worlds is by far my favorite robot of all time. I wish he got some more screen time; crossing my fingers for future books.

R.C. Bray is still killing it with his narration. There's a couple of minutes of his bloopers included at the very end.

This whole book is a giant lead-up to the next, Convergence, in which I'm guessing several separated story lines will... well, converge. Looking very much forward to that, but I have decided to listen to one of the side stories first, Forget Nothing. This is an Andien Broxin prequel, and since she'll return in Convergence (I discovered from its very opening sentence) I'll be diving into her backstory now.
Profile Image for Jacob P.
240 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2024
Dark Victory dives back into the heart of the Galaxy's Edge universe, offering a satisfying return to the main storyline after the broader explorations of the expansion stories. Im with 20's on how the galaxy became populated his perspective added a layer of depth to the broader narrative.

Keel stands out as a fresh and dynamic version of Rechs, bringing his own flair to the role while still embodying the grit and determination we associate with the legendary mercenary. His presence is a highlight, adding new energy to familiar dynamics.

RC Bray once again delivers top-tier narration, effortlessly drawing listeners into the action and emotional beats. The story blends high stakes with moments of introspection, offering a balance that keeps you invested in both the plot and the characters.

A strong continuation of Season 2, Dark Victory reaffirms why Galaxy's Edge remains such a captivating series.

Listened to as an audiobook on Audible.
Profile Image for Max Cosmo.
35 reviews3 followers
August 19, 2021
Great book but two things ruined my enjoyment of it

This was a great book. Unfortunately the authors are trying to pepper 2021 references (shorts ladder attack on gme??) And there was a bit of sexism with the gomarii genders leading to me giving the lowest review of this series so far.

To Jason anspach and Nick Cole, please don't try to bring earth 2021 or any references into this alternate universe set thousands of years ahead of us. Additionally, if people are confused about gender, there is no requirement to use him or her, they or them is absolutely acceptable and in most cases it's perfectly fine to lead with until identifiers are offered. Skip the mental gymnastics and just keep to the story.
Profile Image for Robert Defrank.
Author 6 books15 followers
September 4, 2021
Keel is doing a better job than even he had thought in filling Tyrus Rechs’ shoes – and his armor – but Keel, the Legion and Black Leaf no sooner put out one fire than hints of a new threat surface, using the remnants of the deposed and despised former Republic as cover. Keel’s search to uncover the secrets of Kill Team Ice – and of his lost past – take him to the seediest and deadliest corners of the galaxy where he work his best, but there are lurking horrors of there for which Goth Sullus and even the Savages was only the first hint. Brace yourself for something big when Book 3 rolls around, because these authors ain’t playing.
Profile Image for Joshua.
Author 13 books13 followers
October 8, 2021
“More More More”

When last we left Galaxy’s Edge, some craaaaazy stuff had happened. (But when hasn’t it?) Dark Victory kind of steps us away from those events, which was initially a bit frustrating, but continues to build story momentum. If you’ve liked and been excited by GE this far, you should enjoy this.

I’ve got one or two qualms, notably that a particular… thing… we’ve been fearing for sometime now has a chat with other characters, and I feel like that robs some of the scary mystique. But all in all, it’s a strong entry and I’m ready for the next one.
Profile Image for Jarryd Kalideen.
409 reviews7 followers
September 11, 2021
Brutal

This is one captivating book,it drags a bit for the first 20% but kicks in very quickly. Plenty of moving pieces , each getting a small piece of a large puzzle. The chapters dealing with the slaves are quite powerful, dark and melancholic but visceral. There's been a few developments that we get to realise finally but plenty more to go. I'm nervous for the next book and what will go down.
Profile Image for Trax Armstrong.
95 reviews
August 21, 2021
Can't get enough of Galaxy Edge and the incredible Savages

While Dark Victory kinda lack the pulse-pounding thrill of the previous books in this series, it is a start in the effort to bring together the loose ends.

Anyway no matter where the story goes from here, I still prefer the Savage version of reality as it is minimalistically economical and efficient.
Profile Image for Steve.
1,629 reviews62 followers
October 27, 2021
The main sequence of GE books is back, reminding me why the original storyline is my favourite. I find the lack of chatterbox narrators and comic relief attempts in some of the other books here to be refreshing. If you like the series this book shouldn't disappoint, the only other things I could say are spoilers. Big die is coming though...
223 reviews3 followers
March 23, 2022
Love the fast pace!

I enjoyed getting to know Garrett better; watching him mature & learn that he IS as important as Wraith said he was. And Arkaddy Nilo agrees. Looks like a new friendship here. That'll be a great one.

But what's really up with Surber?

Thanks again for a fantastic reading adventure. It's just getting better each installment! Please keep writing.
Profile Image for James Thomas.
431 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2023
This is the five-star rating system I use:

★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.

If for whatever reason, I go back and reread a good book, I will change the rating to five-star because I read it again.
Profile Image for Gabriel.
Author 7 books2 followers
August 23, 2021
Gear it up!

Lots of moving pieces, at times felt very much like it was everyone was getting their 10 minutes of fame. Looking forward to the next book though, to see where the story threads take us.
25 reviews
August 24, 2021
Dark Victory ( Galaxy’s Edge Book 12 ) Outstanding!

Dark Victory ( Galaxy’s Edge Book 12 ) was Great 👍🏻 Highly anticipated but too short and over too quickly. The hook is in, and has been since book 1. Let the adventures continue, I ‘m addicted!
Profile Image for Ernie.
56 reviews
September 7, 2021
This series and universe are fantastic. All of the actions, storytelling and character development that you've come to love and expect from the series continues on in this book.

Fully enjoyed it and am happy to see the series is moving forward strong.
263 reviews3 followers
October 22, 2021
Building toward ...

You might need to reread a book or two to keep from being confused. Just so much going into this one. However, worth it, and if the next book goes where I think it will, season two will be awesome. Now,when do we get a tv show?
937 reviews9 followers
November 3, 2021
Bugger it that finished too soon. I want more.

A brilliant thrilling military sci-fi action novel.
I now have to wait for the next one😢.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
A great series that is a must read.
Profile Image for David.
114 reviews
November 12, 2021
While I understand the desire to diversify the storyline some, the departure from the Legion and focus on Ford was the wrong move. Dull storyline with no emotional investment. If it wasn’t narrated by Bray, I’d rate it even lower.
389 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2022
another invasion!

You got to enjoy ruthlessly going after slavers. But then you add in some intrigue and potential savage invasion and I’m pretty excited for the next book! Plus I want to see the wraith or … wraith lol.
Profile Image for Loren.
43 reviews
March 8, 2025
I enjoyed this book even though it wasn't my favorite in the series. I'm glad that Honey didn't turn into one of the main characters. It wouldn't have been in line with nether ops, and not every bad guy needs a redemption arc. DDOW is hilarious. He's a great side character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Vanessa Kiger.
893 reviews5 followers
March 10, 2025
GOOD!

I love how the Savages are starting to come back into the story. I also LOVE how the story and plot are unfolding. The character development is outstanding. There are so many dark twists!
1 review
August 24, 2021
Kept in suspense

Excellent read ,can’t wait for the next one. Jumping around the galaxy getting rid of the bad guys is the way to go .
Profile Image for Michael Hohman.
12 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2021
Excellent! The twists just keep coming, can’t wait for the next series. #teammasters
Profile Image for Christopher Prats.
89 reviews
September 1, 2021
While I wasn’t a fan of the last entry, I really can’t hate this one. It’s more of the same goodness from back during season 1 and it’s hard to argue with a formula that works.
2 reviews
September 1, 2021
so good!!

Can’t wait till November. Love how all the timelines are coming together. One of my favorite Universes of all time. Thanks Nick and Jason.
Profile Image for Patkós Csaba.
59 reviews5 followers
September 5, 2021
Very good continuation of the story. My only complaint would that the overall story and universe evolved too little in this book. Still five stars.
2 reviews
September 9, 2021
worth the wait

MORE, MORE, MORE!!! is correct.
make it so, please
the characters are becoming real and connected.
enjoyed every page
thanks again!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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