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War's Edge: Blood & Steel
"Bolder and more action packed than anything Ryan Aslesen has written before, this groin kicker of a book is the furthest thing from a bland, spineless it's a brutal, intense successor to the initial scifi masterpiece." -Nathaniel Timberlake Galactic war.On its heels after the disastrous Battle of Verdant, the United Systems Alliance is taken completely by surprise when the Galactic Union launches an all-out surprise offensive that captures planet after planet. Fear and panic spread like an oxygen fire as the Union invasion fleet makes a dash for the Alliance core worlds. Sergeant Mark Rizer and the Marines and sailors of Sixth Fleet are lightyears from the front, still licking their wounds after the bitter defeat on Verdant. But there is no time to rest, for General Hella is planning a daring--perhaps suicidal--operation to finally halt the Union juggernaut. As the Alliance launches its first offensive of the war, Rizer and his Marines find themselves in the midst of a brutal campaign to retake the Union-occupied planet Stavanger. Fighting house-to-house and hand-to-hand in a frozen hell, Murder Company wages a desperate battle against a seemingly unstoppable enemy. Outgunned and outmanned, Rizer realizes his platoon is more than just a cog in the vast Marine Corps war machine--they're the glue holding the entire operation together. Failure isn't an option if the Alliance is to survive. This book contains graphic violence, profanity, and sexual content. It is intended for a mature audience. Reader discretion is advised.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2021
118 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Ryan W. Aslesen
36 books71 followersRyan Aslesen is a bestselling author based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a former Marine officer, veteran of the War on Terror, and a graduate of Presentation College and American Military University. His military and work experience have made him one of the premier writers of military science fiction and fantasy. His bestselling Crucible and War's Edge series are highly regarded for their authenticity, explosive action, and military realism. When not writing or out protecting the world, you will find him spending quality time with his family.
Get a free ebook and sign up to receive exclusive content and updates at: www.ryanaslesen.com
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 25, 2025
3.5 Sci-fi tactical military action! Power armor, air combat, plasma rifles, med bots, and explosions! Once Blood & Steel gets going, it's action overload. Which is not to say it's without flaws. This is my 9th Ryan W. Aslesen book and it's clear to me that the author has grown in his abilities, but there have been some bumps and this one isn't without some clunkiness. For the most part, the author is successful at what he's trying to achieve, it's an ambitious book, focusing on tactical action, deliberately planning the squad's attack, and taking the reader through the chain of command and decisions as the action grows increasingly frantic and desperate. This is a better execution of what was promised with the first War's Edge, a story I liked more in terms of world-building but was otherwise uneven and indulgent. Here, it's a self-contained campaign, successful as a stand-alone that delivers what it promises. However, there are some flaws. The first 20% before the main protagonist is introduced is a little confusing, there's a tendency to introduce too many characters and it's almost halfway before I really locked into who I was supposed to be following. It makes sense because the book wants to drive home the harsh tolls of war and introduce many characters who aren't going to make it. But after a couple of dozen names are thrown at me, they're all just generic soldiers and I don't know if I should remember any of them. Aslesen's history of writing horror shows up a few times with some shocking violence and there are some impactful sequences. But there are other times when the gung-ho sacrifice of soldiers is a little queasy. This series could be something of a military action classic, but there are times when I feel a little refinement and additional editing could help it reach its potential. (less)
July 12, 2021
Blood and Steel - A Haiku:
"Bring us the action,
Master Aslesen is here,
We bask in greatness."
"Blood and Steel" is the latest smash hit in the Wars Edge series, authored by Marine veteran and master of the written word, Ryan Aslesen. "Blood and Steel" is a 2021 publication and is the second book in the ever-growing and ever-more-awesome series. If you haven't read book one - "Dead Heroes" - I would tackle it before taking on book two.
"Bood and Steel" continues the saga from the first book, detailing the war between the United Systems Alliance and the Galactic Union. The characters from the first book are all back for the action, which this time takes place on the frozen hell-hole planet of Stavenger. Mark Rizer and company will have quite a fight on their hands to counter ruthless Union forces bent on total domination of the galaxy.
If you've read other books by Aslesen, then "Blood and Steel" will feel like a pleasant visit from an old friend. All of the author's signature trademarks are present and accounted for with this latest book: blistering action, cool technology, ingenious strategizing, compelling characterization, and an all-around good time. "Blood and Steel" cuts to the chase a little faster than its predecessor. It's a much shorter, leaner book in which the action takes center stage, with nary a dull moment to be found. The novel expertly juggles its various plot threads and different characters. Getting to peer into the psyche of general officers and their decision-making process, and then jumping to the perspective of enlisted men on the ground while they experience the consequences of their superior's decisions is such a fascinating dichotomy. That the author pulls it off with such verve is a real feather in his cap. This is the science fiction version of what Tom Clancy did in so many of his novels; "Blood and Steel" is absolutely worthy to be compared to those great works.
Once again, author Aslesen presents such compelling ideas on technology and warfare of the future. So convincingly rendered is the military tech, the book almost comes off as a non-fiction account of war. Nothing feels like a stretch, and it's almost like the author is holding the user manual for each piece of equipment, whether rifle or battleship.
Also back is sterling characterization. While the excitement of the book lies in its action, the heart of the book lies with its characters. No doubt bringing his personal experience to bear, the author gives readers an aching, brutally honest look at warfare through the eyes of people who feel very real. The war and its murky ethics exact a costly toll on those involved. When it comes to conveying the cerebral experience of these fighting men, the author has no equal.
With "Blood and Steel," Ryan Aslesen has shown, in short, mastery of the genre. Equal parts exciting, brilliant, and heart-rending, the novel succeeds as an absorbing read, but also rises to the level of military science fiction tour de force. Did I like it? Sure did. Do you need to read it? Yep. Right now? Uh...yeah!
"Bring us the action,
Master Aslesen is here,
We bask in greatness."
"Blood and Steel" is the latest smash hit in the Wars Edge series, authored by Marine veteran and master of the written word, Ryan Aslesen. "Blood and Steel" is a 2021 publication and is the second book in the ever-growing and ever-more-awesome series. If you haven't read book one - "Dead Heroes" - I would tackle it before taking on book two.
"Bood and Steel" continues the saga from the first book, detailing the war between the United Systems Alliance and the Galactic Union. The characters from the first book are all back for the action, which this time takes place on the frozen hell-hole planet of Stavenger. Mark Rizer and company will have quite a fight on their hands to counter ruthless Union forces bent on total domination of the galaxy.
If you've read other books by Aslesen, then "Blood and Steel" will feel like a pleasant visit from an old friend. All of the author's signature trademarks are present and accounted for with this latest book: blistering action, cool technology, ingenious strategizing, compelling characterization, and an all-around good time. "Blood and Steel" cuts to the chase a little faster than its predecessor. It's a much shorter, leaner book in which the action takes center stage, with nary a dull moment to be found. The novel expertly juggles its various plot threads and different characters. Getting to peer into the psyche of general officers and their decision-making process, and then jumping to the perspective of enlisted men on the ground while they experience the consequences of their superior's decisions is such a fascinating dichotomy. That the author pulls it off with such verve is a real feather in his cap. This is the science fiction version of what Tom Clancy did in so many of his novels; "Blood and Steel" is absolutely worthy to be compared to those great works.
Once again, author Aslesen presents such compelling ideas on technology and warfare of the future. So convincingly rendered is the military tech, the book almost comes off as a non-fiction account of war. Nothing feels like a stretch, and it's almost like the author is holding the user manual for each piece of equipment, whether rifle or battleship.
Also back is sterling characterization. While the excitement of the book lies in its action, the heart of the book lies with its characters. No doubt bringing his personal experience to bear, the author gives readers an aching, brutally honest look at warfare through the eyes of people who feel very real. The war and its murky ethics exact a costly toll on those involved. When it comes to conveying the cerebral experience of these fighting men, the author has no equal.
With "Blood and Steel," Ryan Aslesen has shown, in short, mastery of the genre. Equal parts exciting, brilliant, and heart-rending, the novel succeeds as an absorbing read, but also rises to the level of military science fiction tour de force. Did I like it? Sure did. Do you need to read it? Yep. Right now? Uh...yeah!
January 12, 2025
Aslesen does ground combat descriptions very well: evocative, detailed, and grim. There is a good storyline, believable tactics, and an appropriate amount of damage to the soldiers, civilians pulled into the battle, and the terrain.
His space combat work could be better, in that it comes across as just wet-navy combat with "space" pasted on. If you're going to worry about a ship listing in space, you need to explain why it's important that the ship _not_ list. 'Oh no! The ship is tilting to port!' 'Who cares; this is zero g?'
Similarly, his space fighters seem to be flying in atmosphere at all times rather than riding thrusters.
If you listen to the audiobook, be aware that the narrator doesn't seem to care much about pronunciation. There is a planet in the book named "Stavanger", presumably after the city in Norway. It should not be pronounced "Sta'-vanjer". And the first syllable of "Pyrrhic" is not "pyre". That said, he does have a good voice for this subject; I just wish he had taken a bit more care in the reading.
I'll probably continue with the series, because the combat scenes are evocative and the flow of the narrative is good, but this isn't one of the best military SF books I've read.
His space combat work could be better, in that it comes across as just wet-navy combat with "space" pasted on. If you're going to worry about a ship listing in space, you need to explain why it's important that the ship _not_ list. 'Oh no! The ship is tilting to port!' 'Who cares; this is zero g?'
Similarly, his space fighters seem to be flying in atmosphere at all times rather than riding thrusters.
If you listen to the audiobook, be aware that the narrator doesn't seem to care much about pronunciation. There is a planet in the book named "Stavanger", presumably after the city in Norway. It should not be pronounced "Sta'-vanjer". And the first syllable of "Pyrrhic" is not "pyre". That said, he does have a good voice for this subject; I just wish he had taken a bit more care in the reading.
I'll probably continue with the series, because the combat scenes are evocative and the flow of the narrative is good, but this isn't one of the best military SF books I've read.
September 23, 2021
Good spin off
Ryan W. Aslesen’s “War’s Edge: Blood and Steel” is, briefly speaking, a three hundred and something pages book full of action.
As regards the plot, the book is a spin off from the author’s previous masterpiece, but it is not compulsory to read the other book to understand the gist. I felt I was in a roller coaster of emotions and that there was no time to rest while reading. The story is interesting, though not my favourite.
The characters, both main and secondary, are well-rounded and believable. The setting is awesomely described. Although I found some parts unnecessary, I recommend this book because fantasy readers might enjoy it.
Ryan W. Aslesen’s “War’s Edge: Blood and Steel” is, briefly speaking, a three hundred and something pages book full of action.
As regards the plot, the book is a spin off from the author’s previous masterpiece, but it is not compulsory to read the other book to understand the gist. I felt I was in a roller coaster of emotions and that there was no time to rest while reading. The story is interesting, though not my favourite.
The characters, both main and secondary, are well-rounded and believable. The setting is awesomely described. Although I found some parts unnecessary, I recommend this book because fantasy readers might enjoy it.
June 19, 2021
If you like military science fiction, you’ll love this book.
The blurb about this book is entirely correct. It is no weak need sequel. It is full of action, space and ground military combat and some good character development.
This book was a total page turner, I finished it in one sitting that’s how enjoyable it was.
The book the pics the horrors of war extremely well. If you like military science fictio, plenty of action and you are not too squeamish you’ll enjoy this book. Unfortunately now I have to wait for the next one.
The blurb about this book is entirely correct. It is no weak need sequel. It is full of action, space and ground military combat and some good character development.
This book was a total page turner, I finished it in one sitting that’s how enjoyable it was.
The book the pics the horrors of war extremely well. If you like military science fictio, plenty of action and you are not too squeamish you’ll enjoy this book. Unfortunately now I have to wait for the next one.
September 26, 2021
War's Edge: Blood & Steel written by Ryan Aslesen is the second and last book in the series. It’s not too long but not very short either and it is essential to pay attention to the narrative and names, so it took me some time to finish reading it.
The story is completely action packed. I read it at the edge of my seat on more than one occasion. It is very entertaining and captured my attention from beginning to end.
I would certainly recommend reading it, but to an adult public due to its content regarding sexuality, vocabulary and violence.
The story is completely action packed. I read it at the edge of my seat on more than one occasion. It is very entertaining and captured my attention from beginning to end.
I would certainly recommend reading it, but to an adult public due to its content regarding sexuality, vocabulary and violence.
June 28, 2024
I like down-to-earth military sci-fi like Galaxy's Edge, but there's like a fine balance in this genre where the writing is either engaging or not at all. This one was one of the better books in the genre, though it's a bit of a downgrade in terms of characterization between Rizer and his people.
It does do a good job at balancing the "top-level" command POVs with the grunt POVs, so I still like it regardless.
It does do a good job at balancing the "top-level" command POVs with the grunt POVs, so I still like it regardless.
November 5, 2021
Exciting and feels real
Very satisfying because it has lots of excitement, action, and pathos. This story will draw you in and you'll think about the characters in between reading sessions. Having a story come alive in your mind is the sign of a great writer. This story does that for me. Read it and enjoy the adventure.
Very satisfying because it has lots of excitement, action, and pathos. This story will draw you in and you'll think about the characters in between reading sessions. Having a story come alive in your mind is the sign of a great writer. This story does that for me. Read it and enjoy the adventure.
January 22, 2024
Good sequel!
Time for vengeance! They really had to work and sacrifice for this win. It wasn’t easy and showed how damaging even winning can be. I think the enemy fleet withdrew way too fast. They should have been able to destroy more ships in my opinion. Ground fight was intense.
Time for vengeance! They really had to work and sacrifice for this win. It wasn’t easy and showed how damaging even winning can be. I think the enemy fleet withdrew way too fast. They should have been able to destroy more ships in my opinion. Ground fight was intense.
September 22, 2021
Waited for this one.
For a long time, I loved the first one in the series. And have loved this one. I am going to patiently (maby!) Wait for the next. He's just as good as Jay Allen. Especially the Marine series.
For a long time, I loved the first one in the series. And have loved this one. I am going to patiently (maby!) Wait for the next. He's just as good as Jay Allen. Especially the Marine series.
November 4, 2021
Great follow up
The second book loses no steam. And as it has more to talk about, being the second book, the non-action sections are still interesting. Love the characters and love the series so far. Keep em rollin bro!
The second book loses no steam. And as it has more to talk about, being the second book, the non-action sections are still interesting. Love the characters and love the series so far. Keep em rollin bro!
January 3, 2022
SEMPER FI !
I truly enjoyed this series. The author is either a former Marine or did an excellent job of research! His details about Boot Camp took me back a long time. Not a bunch of over the top rubbish…kept my attention throughout!
I truly enjoyed this series. The author is either a former Marine or did an excellent job of research! His details about Boot Camp took me back a long time. Not a bunch of over the top rubbish…kept my attention throughout!
March 2, 2022
Truly an amazing book
This two book series was a constant page turner. I honestly kept reading well into the night every night. I wish there was more of this story and to see the end of the union.
This two book series was a constant page turner. I honestly kept reading well into the night every night. I wish there was more of this story and to see the end of the union.
March 21, 2023
The series is heating up!
Phenomenal series! I'm immensely pleased that the second book was on par with the first book. It would have been easy to fall off after such a great starting book. On to the next one!!
Phenomenal series! I'm immensely pleased that the second book was on par with the first book. It would have been easy to fall off after such a great starting book. On to the next one!!
May 23, 2023
Outstanding Series, Military Sci-fi at its best
I have not read this great a series in a long while. I am awestruck and the excellent characters and the fight details are outstanding. Keep it coming.
I have not read this great a series in a long while. I am awestruck and the excellent characters and the fight details are outstanding. Keep it coming.
April 13, 2024
Semper Fidelis
Great work. Very much worth the time. Very much looking forward to the next installment. Very good character development. Author should definitely consider writing screenplays. De Opresso Liber
Great work. Very much worth the time. Very much looking forward to the next installment. Very good character development. Author should definitely consider writing screenplays. De Opresso Liber
June 20, 2021
Great
This is another great installment. It's vivid, action packed and utterly brutal. As close to military realism as it gets.
This is another great installment. It's vivid, action packed and utterly brutal. As close to military realism as it gets.
June 27, 2021
Great read
Great 2nd book in the series, gets right into the action and you feel the tension and hard work all characters go through.
Great 2nd book in the series, gets right into the action and you feel the tension and hard work all characters go through.
July 15, 2021
Great read
Another great addition to this series. I enjoyed this book the entire way through and I am looking forward to the next one.
Another great addition to this series. I enjoyed this book the entire way through and I am looking forward to the next one.
July 21, 2021
Good read
Nice seconds book in the series. Lots of action and ok character development. It's worth the read if you liked the first one
Nice seconds book in the series. Lots of action and ok character development. It's worth the read if you liked the first one
August 30, 2021
Awesome
Really enjoyed these first 2 books and really hope more are on the way! Bring some more please and thank you!!!
Really enjoyed these first 2 books and really hope more are on the way! Bring some more please and thank you!!!
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September 17, 2021Action packed is an understatement!
Aslesen does it yet again. Taking us to worlds unknown and putting us in the middle of the action. I swear I could almost feel the splatter!
Aslesen does it yet again. Taking us to worlds unknown and putting us in the middle of the action. I swear I could almost feel the splatter!
March 12, 2022
Excellent book
Even though set in the future, those of us who have severed can relate. Good job, looking forward to the next book.
Even though set in the future, those of us who have severed can relate. Good job, looking forward to the next book.
August 22, 2022
I didn't think I'd like it, but I did- well written
April 25, 2024
love this series
Truly great read to tell the truth. Can’t wait to start the next book in a few minutes. Highly recommend the series.
Truly great read to tell the truth. Can’t wait to start the next book in a few minutes. Highly recommend the series.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews