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Donovan #6
Reckoning
The sixth book in the thrilling Donovan sci-fi series returns to a treacherous alien planet where corporate threats and dangerous creatures imperil the lives of the colonists.
Three years after Ashanti spaced for Solar System, Turalon reappears in the Donovanian sky. The Corporation has returned. Donovan’s wealth is a lure for the powerful families who control the Board. Unburdened by morals, they are bringing their battle for supremacy to Port Authority and a showdown that could tear The Corporation apart.
Much to her disgust, Falise Taglioni has been chosen to ensure that her family emerges triumphant; she comes with instructions for her brother, Dek. After all, she could always manipulate him to her will. And she will again, even if she has to destroy Talina Perez in the process. And if her war with the Grunnels, Xian Chans, and Radceks destroys Port Authority in the process? Who cares?
But nothing on Donovan is static, and in the three years since Ashanti’s departure, life on the planet has hardened Kalico Aguila and the scrappy inhabitants of Port Authority. Life in the bush breeds a different kind of human, genetically altered, tough, and self-reliant. And on Donovan, determining who is predator, and who is prey has never been easy.
Meanwhile, for Kylee Simonov and her bonded quetzal, Flute, there will be a final comeuppance. Because on Donovan, blood vendetta needs to be paid. And then she’s going to town. After which, nothing will be the same.
Three years after Ashanti spaced for Solar System, Turalon reappears in the Donovanian sky. The Corporation has returned. Donovan’s wealth is a lure for the powerful families who control the Board. Unburdened by morals, they are bringing their battle for supremacy to Port Authority and a showdown that could tear The Corporation apart.
Much to her disgust, Falise Taglioni has been chosen to ensure that her family emerges triumphant; she comes with instructions for her brother, Dek. After all, she could always manipulate him to her will. And she will again, even if she has to destroy Talina Perez in the process. And if her war with the Grunnels, Xian Chans, and Radceks destroys Port Authority in the process? Who cares?
But nothing on Donovan is static, and in the three years since Ashanti’s departure, life on the planet has hardened Kalico Aguila and the scrappy inhabitants of Port Authority. Life in the bush breeds a different kind of human, genetically altered, tough, and self-reliant. And on Donovan, determining who is predator, and who is prey has never been easy.
Meanwhile, for Kylee Simonov and her bonded quetzal, Flute, there will be a final comeuppance. Because on Donovan, blood vendetta needs to be paid. And then she’s going to town. After which, nothing will be the same.
537 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2022
20 people are currently reading
1724 people want to read
About the author
W. Michael Gear
181 books730 followersW. Michael Gear was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on the twentieth of May, 1955. A fourth generation Colorado native, his family had been involved in hard-rock mining, cattle ranching, and journalism. After his father's death in 1959, Michael's mother received her Master's degree in journalism and began teaching. In 1962 she married Joseph J. Cook, who taught tool and die making, and the family lived in Lakewood, Colorado, until 1968. At that time they moved to Fort Collins so that Joe could pursue his Ph.D.. During those years the family lived in the foothills above Horsetooth Reservoir.
It was there that Mike developed a love of history, anthropology, and motorcycles. They would color his future and fill his imagination for the rest of his life. During summers he volunteered labor on local ranches or at the farm east of Greeley and landed his first real job: picking up trash at the lake and cleaning outhouses. It has been said that his exposure to trash led him into archaeology. We will not speculate about what cleaning the outhouses might have led him to. On his first dig as a professional archaeologist in 1976 he discovered that two thousand year old human trash isn't nearly as obnoxious as the new stuff.
Michael graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1972 and pursued both his Bachelor's (1976) and Master's (1979) degrees at Colorado State University. Upon completion of his Master's - his specialty was in physical anthropology - he went to work for Western Wyoming College in Rock Springs as a field archaeologist.
It was in the winter of 1978 that he wrote his first novel. Irritated by historical inaccuracies in Western fiction, he swore he could do better. He was "taking retirement in installments," archaeology being a seasonal career, in the cabin his great uncle Aubrey had built. One cold January night he read a Western novel about a trail drive in which steers (castrated males) had calves. The historical inaccuracies of the story bothered him all night. The next morning, still incensed, he chunked wood into the stove and hunkered over the typewriter. There, on the mining claim, at nine thousand feet outside of Empire, Colorado he hammered out his first five hundred and fifty page novel. Yes, that first manuscript still exists, but if there is justice in the universe, no one will ever see it. It reads wretchedly - but the historical facts are correct!
Beginning in 1981, Michael, along with two partners, put together his own archaeological consulting company. Pronghorn Anthropological Associates began doing cultural resource management studies in 1982, and, although Michael sold his interest in 1984, to this day the company remains in business in Casper, Wyoming. During the years, Michael has worked throughout the western United States doing archaeological surveys, testing, and mitigation for pipelines, oil wells, power lines, timber sales, and highway construction. He learned the value of strong black coffee, developed a palate for chocolate donuts, and ferreted out every quality Mexican restaurant in eight states. He spent nine months of the year traveling from project to project with his trowel and dig kit, a clapped-out '72 Wonder Blazer, and his boon companion, Tedi, a noble tri-color Sheltie.
That fateful day in November, 1981, was delightfully clear, cold, and still in Laramie, Wyoming. Archaeologists from all over the state had arrived at the University of Wyoming for the annual meetings of the Wyoming Association of Professional Archaeologists. It was there, in the meeting room, way too early after a much too long night, that Mike first laid eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world: Kathleen O'Neal Gear. The BLM State Archaeologist, Ray Leicht, introduced him to the pretty anthropologist and historian, and best of all, Ray invited Mike to lunch with Kathleen. It was the perfect beginning for a long and wondrous relationship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/wmicha...
It was there that Mike developed a love of history, anthropology, and motorcycles. They would color his future and fill his imagination for the rest of his life. During summers he volunteered labor on local ranches or at the farm east of Greeley and landed his first real job: picking up trash at the lake and cleaning outhouses. It has been said that his exposure to trash led him into archaeology. We will not speculate about what cleaning the outhouses might have led him to. On his first dig as a professional archaeologist in 1976 he discovered that two thousand year old human trash isn't nearly as obnoxious as the new stuff.
Michael graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1972 and pursued both his Bachelor's (1976) and Master's (1979) degrees at Colorado State University. Upon completion of his Master's - his specialty was in physical anthropology - he went to work for Western Wyoming College in Rock Springs as a field archaeologist.
It was in the winter of 1978 that he wrote his first novel. Irritated by historical inaccuracies in Western fiction, he swore he could do better. He was "taking retirement in installments," archaeology being a seasonal career, in the cabin his great uncle Aubrey had built. One cold January night he read a Western novel about a trail drive in which steers (castrated males) had calves. The historical inaccuracies of the story bothered him all night. The next morning, still incensed, he chunked wood into the stove and hunkered over the typewriter. There, on the mining claim, at nine thousand feet outside of Empire, Colorado he hammered out his first five hundred and fifty page novel. Yes, that first manuscript still exists, but if there is justice in the universe, no one will ever see it. It reads wretchedly - but the historical facts are correct!
Beginning in 1981, Michael, along with two partners, put together his own archaeological consulting company. Pronghorn Anthropological Associates began doing cultural resource management studies in 1982, and, although Michael sold his interest in 1984, to this day the company remains in business in Casper, Wyoming. During the years, Michael has worked throughout the western United States doing archaeological surveys, testing, and mitigation for pipelines, oil wells, power lines, timber sales, and highway construction. He learned the value of strong black coffee, developed a palate for chocolate donuts, and ferreted out every quality Mexican restaurant in eight states. He spent nine months of the year traveling from project to project with his trowel and dig kit, a clapped-out '72 Wonder Blazer, and his boon companion, Tedi, a noble tri-color Sheltie.
That fateful day in November, 1981, was delightfully clear, cold, and still in Laramie, Wyoming. Archaeologists from all over the state had arrived at the University of Wyoming for the annual meetings of the Wyoming Association of Professional Archaeologists. It was there, in the meeting room, way too early after a much too long night, that Mike first laid eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world: Kathleen O'Neal Gear. The BLM State Archaeologist, Ray Leicht, introduced him to the pretty anthropologist and historian, and best of all, Ray invited Mike to lunch with Kathleen. It was the perfect beginning for a long and wondrous relationship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/wmicha...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 17, 2022
If you've made it this far, you know what to expect. This time the tough colonists of Donovan face off with a scummy Board appointed Corporate Inspector and Elite Family reps looking to give Kalico the boot from her position as Board Supervisor.
That goes over about as well as expected.
Another wholly entertaining book in the Donovan series, and I'm still left hoping for more.
That goes over about as well as expected.
Another wholly entertaining book in the Donovan series, and I'm still left hoping for more.
November 14, 2022
The nitty-gritty: Gear brings more deadly creatures, more political maneuvering and lots of action to the table in Reckoning, another fantastic entry in his Donovan series.
It’s always fun when a new W. Michael Gear Donovan book comes out, a series that could keep on going as far as I’m concerned. I’m convinced Gear isn’t done with his characters yet, despite the rather tidy ending of Reckoning. This sixth book is lighter on plot and action and heavier on character development, and I was OK with that. Gear still manages to get in lots of tense, scary scenes, and fans of the series will not be disappointed.
As the story opens, we learn that the Turalon, a ship caught in inverted symmetry for quite a while, is about to finally emerge within orbit of Capella III. Those on board include four representatives of powerful Solar System families, each one hoping to gain control of Donovan’s wealth of natural minerals. Also aboard is Inspector General Soukup, who is convinced that Board Supervisor Kalico Aguila, a resident of Donovan for many years, has broken her contract and needs to be removed from office. Finally, a team of thirty marines under the direction of Colonel Stanley Creamer plans to act as enforcers once they get to the planet’s surface.
But what none of these people know is that Donovan is a dangerous place for humans, more likely to kill them than provide shelter and resources. Those who live there have developed tough survival skills, working together to keep the many dangerous species out of Port Authority, the hub of the planet. The new arrivals are considered “soft meat” and have no idea what awaits them once they touch down. Yes, things are about to get interesting in Port Authority.
This installment of the series is in many ways a recap of what’s happened so far. Gear includes references to previous books by integrating settings and plots from them into the story revolving around the Turalon passengers. We see Inspector General Soukup taking a tour of the Freelander, the haunted ship from Abandoned. Kylee and Falise spend time with the survivors of the Ashanti from Unreconciled. And the horrible fate of the Maritime Unit, which featured heavily in Adrift, is mentioned several times. For fans who have kept up with the series, Reckoning is such a treat. I had lots of fond memories as I was reading, although “fond” might not be the right word, since most of those memories involve cannibalism, murder and deadly sea creatures!
As I mentioned, we get lots of great character growth in this story. All the old familiar characters are still around. Kalico has had success with her mining operation, but she’s also worried about the impending arrival of the IG, who could dethrone her from her corporate position. Kylee, who is now sixteen, is living off the grid with her quetzal companion Flute and her friend Tip. But when Tip is seriously injured, Kylee is forced to bring him into Port Authority for medical attention, and as a human-quetzal hybrid, that’s way out of her comfort zone. Old favorites like Shig, Dek, Talina and Inga pop up in the story, although they aren’t the focus this time around.
And then there are the new characters. Falise Taglioni represents the high powered Taglioni family and just happens to be Dek’s sister. She’s the family assassin and enforcer, and she’s not above killing to get what she wants. Unfortunately for Falise, she’s completely unprepared for Donovan’s deadly flora and fauna, and it was gratifying (at first) to see her brought down by the elements and the hardened Donovians who refuse to put up with her shit. But once she and Kylee end up stranded outside the walls of Port Authority and are forced to survive on their own, I loved seeing Falise change from an entitled rich woman to one who realizes she has to adjust her way of thinking if she wants to stay alive. I despised most of the new characters, including IG Soukup, who readers will love to hate. He truly was a vile man, and I’ll admit I was hoping Donovan would get him first.
The first half of the book is very slow with very little action. There’s a lot of “talking” among the characters so it feels as though nothing is happening, and considering the book is over five hundred pages, it makes for a slow start. Gear inserts unexpected bursts of action and sudden violence to shake things up, though. And once you hit the midway point, the stakes become much higher and the story more action-packed. All the set-up in the first half is worth it at that point, as Gear throws in plenty of “Holy shit” moments. I still think this series would make an excellent Netflix show, as each book feels like a complete season of television.
Let’s face it—this series has everything I love about science fiction: fantastic characters who show tremendous growth from book to book, an exciting planet with endless alien creatures to keep things interesting, and lots of tension and pulse-pounding action. I’ve no double Gear has more Donovan stories to write, and I’ll be the first in line to read them.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
It’s always fun when a new W. Michael Gear Donovan book comes out, a series that could keep on going as far as I’m concerned. I’m convinced Gear isn’t done with his characters yet, despite the rather tidy ending of Reckoning. This sixth book is lighter on plot and action and heavier on character development, and I was OK with that. Gear still manages to get in lots of tense, scary scenes, and fans of the series will not be disappointed.
As the story opens, we learn that the Turalon, a ship caught in inverted symmetry for quite a while, is about to finally emerge within orbit of Capella III. Those on board include four representatives of powerful Solar System families, each one hoping to gain control of Donovan’s wealth of natural minerals. Also aboard is Inspector General Soukup, who is convinced that Board Supervisor Kalico Aguila, a resident of Donovan for many years, has broken her contract and needs to be removed from office. Finally, a team of thirty marines under the direction of Colonel Stanley Creamer plans to act as enforcers once they get to the planet’s surface.
But what none of these people know is that Donovan is a dangerous place for humans, more likely to kill them than provide shelter and resources. Those who live there have developed tough survival skills, working together to keep the many dangerous species out of Port Authority, the hub of the planet. The new arrivals are considered “soft meat” and have no idea what awaits them once they touch down. Yes, things are about to get interesting in Port Authority.
This installment of the series is in many ways a recap of what’s happened so far. Gear includes references to previous books by integrating settings and plots from them into the story revolving around the Turalon passengers. We see Inspector General Soukup taking a tour of the Freelander, the haunted ship from Abandoned. Kylee and Falise spend time with the survivors of the Ashanti from Unreconciled. And the horrible fate of the Maritime Unit, which featured heavily in Adrift, is mentioned several times. For fans who have kept up with the series, Reckoning is such a treat. I had lots of fond memories as I was reading, although “fond” might not be the right word, since most of those memories involve cannibalism, murder and deadly sea creatures!
As I mentioned, we get lots of great character growth in this story. All the old familiar characters are still around. Kalico has had success with her mining operation, but she’s also worried about the impending arrival of the IG, who could dethrone her from her corporate position. Kylee, who is now sixteen, is living off the grid with her quetzal companion Flute and her friend Tip. But when Tip is seriously injured, Kylee is forced to bring him into Port Authority for medical attention, and as a human-quetzal hybrid, that’s way out of her comfort zone. Old favorites like Shig, Dek, Talina and Inga pop up in the story, although they aren’t the focus this time around.
And then there are the new characters. Falise Taglioni represents the high powered Taglioni family and just happens to be Dek’s sister. She’s the family assassin and enforcer, and she’s not above killing to get what she wants. Unfortunately for Falise, she’s completely unprepared for Donovan’s deadly flora and fauna, and it was gratifying (at first) to see her brought down by the elements and the hardened Donovians who refuse to put up with her shit. But once she and Kylee end up stranded outside the walls of Port Authority and are forced to survive on their own, I loved seeing Falise change from an entitled rich woman to one who realizes she has to adjust her way of thinking if she wants to stay alive. I despised most of the new characters, including IG Soukup, who readers will love to hate. He truly was a vile man, and I’ll admit I was hoping Donovan would get him first.
The first half of the book is very slow with very little action. There’s a lot of “talking” among the characters so it feels as though nothing is happening, and considering the book is over five hundred pages, it makes for a slow start. Gear inserts unexpected bursts of action and sudden violence to shake things up, though. And once you hit the midway point, the stakes become much higher and the story more action-packed. All the set-up in the first half is worth it at that point, as Gear throws in plenty of “Holy shit” moments. I still think this series would make an excellent Netflix show, as each book feels like a complete season of television.
Let’s face it—this series has everything I love about science fiction: fantastic characters who show tremendous growth from book to book, an exciting planet with endless alien creatures to keep things interesting, and lots of tension and pulse-pounding action. I’ve no double Gear has more Donovan stories to write, and I’ll be the first in line to read them.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
November 29, 2022
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2022/11/28/...
Welcome to Donovan. Every new book introduces fresh meat for the planet to chew up and spit out, and Reckoning was no exception. This sixth volume of the series opens with the return of the Turalon, a ship carrying the representatives of the Corporation and members of some of the most powerful families back in the solar system. The word is out that Donovan is teeming with natural resources, and the rich are looking to get richer by getting their slice of that pie. This leaves Board Supervisor Kalico Aguila in the unenviable position of trying to keep all the newcomers alive once they arrive on-planet, while babysitting some massive egos. And of course, none seem to be taking the dangers of Donovan seriously, to her great dismay.
One of the passengers is Falise Taglioni, sister of Dek Taglioni who had come to Donovan years ago. Her plan is to snatch up Donovan for her family before any of her rivals can stake a claim, and that involves first finding her brother and then bending him to her will. However, unbeknownst to Falise, Dek had become assimilated into his new home, living in the bush. When the siblings unite, she’s certain to be in for a shock. Also onboard is Inspector General Soukup of the Corporation who has come to investigate reports that their once loyal subject Kalico Aguila has broken her contract and must be brought back to answer for her transgressions, bringing along Colonel Creamer and his team of Marines to keep the peace.
If you’ve come this far with the series, you should know what to expect by now. The major cast of Donovan remains largely unchanged planetside, with Kalico and Port Authority security head Talina Perez keeping the town running smoothly. Then there’s the quetzal-bonded teenager Kylee Simonov who has reluctantly come in from the wilderness to take care of a wounded friend. Dek has come into town as well to await the arrivals from Turalon, as it’s always fun times watching the “soft meat” get their first taste of Donovan—especially when one of them is your sister.
Things are always changing on Donovan, as evidenced by all the people always coming and going. In many cases, they are also dying, falling prey to the planet’s deadly fauna and flora. In that sense, Reckoning is another welcome addition to the series. It’s a familiar refrain, after all.
Perhaps that is why the previous book, Adrift, has become my favorite in the series. It offered something a little different, taking readers to the oceans of Donovan and switching gears to follow the characters of the doomed Maritime Unit. Reckoning was a return to Port Authority that also felt like a return to status quo, and although I was glad to be back with the PA crew again, there was also a part of me that missed the action, the exploration and the adventure. Plus, there’s just no denying Adrift was one of hell of a book to follow-up.
But lest you think I was disappointed with Reckoning, I really wasn’t. Sure, it was one of the more understated installments of this series with a story that was smaller in scope and less complex, but we did get to see more development in our core characters and their relationships. It was also an opportunity to take a step back and really see how Donovan has affected their lives and changed the way they looked at the world, and how the community of Port Authority as a whole has evolved. Take Kalico Aguila, for example, the woman who came to Donovan to rule it with an iron fist on behalf of the Corporation, but “found herself” instead—along with a new respect for the planet. In the process, she has also won the love and admiration of the citizens of Port Authority, every one of whom would fight to keep the Corporation from taking her away.
The point is, even when a new Donovan book comes out with a more low-key plot, there’s still a lot about it to enjoy. Those who come to Donovan and survive are changed by the experience; we’ve seen this time and time again and there’s at least one character that this happens to in Reckoning, a character I hope we’ll see more of in the future. The series doesn’t seem to be losing any steam yet and I think W. Michael Gear still has a lot more ideas for Donovan in store, so I’m liking my chances.
Welcome to Donovan. Every new book introduces fresh meat for the planet to chew up and spit out, and Reckoning was no exception. This sixth volume of the series opens with the return of the Turalon, a ship carrying the representatives of the Corporation and members of some of the most powerful families back in the solar system. The word is out that Donovan is teeming with natural resources, and the rich are looking to get richer by getting their slice of that pie. This leaves Board Supervisor Kalico Aguila in the unenviable position of trying to keep all the newcomers alive once they arrive on-planet, while babysitting some massive egos. And of course, none seem to be taking the dangers of Donovan seriously, to her great dismay.
One of the passengers is Falise Taglioni, sister of Dek Taglioni who had come to Donovan years ago. Her plan is to snatch up Donovan for her family before any of her rivals can stake a claim, and that involves first finding her brother and then bending him to her will. However, unbeknownst to Falise, Dek had become assimilated into his new home, living in the bush. When the siblings unite, she’s certain to be in for a shock. Also onboard is Inspector General Soukup of the Corporation who has come to investigate reports that their once loyal subject Kalico Aguila has broken her contract and must be brought back to answer for her transgressions, bringing along Colonel Creamer and his team of Marines to keep the peace.
If you’ve come this far with the series, you should know what to expect by now. The major cast of Donovan remains largely unchanged planetside, with Kalico and Port Authority security head Talina Perez keeping the town running smoothly. Then there’s the quetzal-bonded teenager Kylee Simonov who has reluctantly come in from the wilderness to take care of a wounded friend. Dek has come into town as well to await the arrivals from Turalon, as it’s always fun times watching the “soft meat” get their first taste of Donovan—especially when one of them is your sister.
Things are always changing on Donovan, as evidenced by all the people always coming and going. In many cases, they are also dying, falling prey to the planet’s deadly fauna and flora. In that sense, Reckoning is another welcome addition to the series. It’s a familiar refrain, after all.
Perhaps that is why the previous book, Adrift, has become my favorite in the series. It offered something a little different, taking readers to the oceans of Donovan and switching gears to follow the characters of the doomed Maritime Unit. Reckoning was a return to Port Authority that also felt like a return to status quo, and although I was glad to be back with the PA crew again, there was also a part of me that missed the action, the exploration and the adventure. Plus, there’s just no denying Adrift was one of hell of a book to follow-up.
But lest you think I was disappointed with Reckoning, I really wasn’t. Sure, it was one of the more understated installments of this series with a story that was smaller in scope and less complex, but we did get to see more development in our core characters and their relationships. It was also an opportunity to take a step back and really see how Donovan has affected their lives and changed the way they looked at the world, and how the community of Port Authority as a whole has evolved. Take Kalico Aguila, for example, the woman who came to Donovan to rule it with an iron fist on behalf of the Corporation, but “found herself” instead—along with a new respect for the planet. In the process, she has also won the love and admiration of the citizens of Port Authority, every one of whom would fight to keep the Corporation from taking her away.
The point is, even when a new Donovan book comes out with a more low-key plot, there’s still a lot about it to enjoy. Those who come to Donovan and survive are changed by the experience; we’ve seen this time and time again and there’s at least one character that this happens to in Reckoning, a character I hope we’ll see more of in the future. The series doesn’t seem to be losing any steam yet and I think W. Michael Gear still has a lot more ideas for Donovan in store, so I’m liking my chances.
November 13, 2022
I was fairly critical with the last novel for two reasons. First, it was overly depressing (even for a planet as ruthless to soft meat as Donovan). Second, five novels in and we still have no idea what the endgame is for this series.
Having unleashed Dan Wirth and introducing trillions in wealth to the Corporation, Dek knows that the Corporation will respond in kind. They do so by sending an Inspector (and his 4 coded slaves) and members from 4 of the member families to get a feel of events on Donovan and upon landing things go as well as you would expect for soft meat. Chaos and deaths ensue and a murder mystery follows as one by one members of the founding families die mysteriously. As the title aptly says, there is a reckoning for the survivors who head back to civilization humbled by events.
I can appreciate the fact that interstellar travel is terrifying and that the distance between the Corporation and Donovan makes it very difficult for the Corporation to impose their will on the planet but given what transpires in Reckoning (an inhospitable planet, a hostile populace whose personal wealth exceeds that of the families on the board) I think it's safe to assume that the gloves will be off when the Corporation next returns. As humbling as the events were for the two remaining survivors sent by the Corporation, how can the recommendation not be to nuke the entire planet and mine the resources in rad suits. Perhaps that is where the series is heading as was alluded to. Yet, we have seen the high cost that the hubris of relying on technology has played out over the course of the series so it would not surprise me if the nuclear option (if on the table) only makes matters worse.
Accepting the series takes place on a hostile planet, I would love the series to shift to the Corporate boardroom for the next novel if only to see Dan Wirth meet a fitting end. I would love to see the political manipulation and thought process behind the inevitable response and final showdown with Donovan.
Overall, Reckoning is a solid addition to the Donovan series moving the story along (albeit at a much slower pace).
Having unleashed Dan Wirth and introducing trillions in wealth to the Corporation, Dek knows that the Corporation will respond in kind. They do so by sending an Inspector (and his 4 coded slaves) and members from 4 of the member families to get a feel of events on Donovan and upon landing things go as well as you would expect for soft meat. Chaos and deaths ensue and a murder mystery follows as one by one members of the founding families die mysteriously. As the title aptly says, there is a reckoning for the survivors who head back to civilization humbled by events.
I can appreciate the fact that interstellar travel is terrifying and that the distance between the Corporation and Donovan makes it very difficult for the Corporation to impose their will on the planet but given what transpires in Reckoning (an inhospitable planet, a hostile populace whose personal wealth exceeds that of the families on the board) I think it's safe to assume that the gloves will be off when the Corporation next returns. As humbling as the events were for the two remaining survivors sent by the Corporation, how can the recommendation not be to nuke the entire planet and mine the resources in rad suits. Perhaps that is where the series is heading as was alluded to. Yet, we have seen the high cost that the hubris of relying on technology has played out over the course of the series so it would not surprise me if the nuclear option (if on the table) only makes matters worse.
Accepting the series takes place on a hostile planet, I would love the series to shift to the Corporate boardroom for the next novel if only to see Dan Wirth meet a fitting end. I would love to see the political manipulation and thought process behind the inevitable response and final showdown with Donovan.
Overall, Reckoning is a solid addition to the Donovan series moving the story along (albeit at a much slower pace).
May 16, 2023
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (out of 5)
Genre: Science Fiction
Plotpoints: new arrivals to PA arrive with an agenda. Can they survive?
Character Development: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
KU/library or Buy-worthy? Buy it
Similar vibe: Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky, Dead Silence by SA Barnes
As with the rest of the Donovan series Reckoning by W. Michael Gear is a look into the hardships and trials of interstellar travel and colonization of an alien world. The series feels more real to me with sentient predatory plant and animal life. The people of Port Authority are tested constantly. Think wild west/medieval engineering mixed with sci fi quantum theory and horror elements. For non sci fi readers this is a series I would absolutely recommend. The verbiage is easy, understandable and the characters include a cast of diverse strong characters and truly villainous bad guys. Political maneuvering is a plot staple. This is not a romance. There are some connections in the series but it's not the focus. Spice level is 0.
With this book six I felt like the PA characters all lost their individual voices a bit in the face of the Corporation sending representatives from some of the families. There was a lot of repeated "Get it", "Got it", "Get this" which "got me" nothing but annoyed. They blended together into a single Donovian attitude instead of the individual personalities that I've come to love. However, Falise and the other Family Reps were such singularly ridiculous characters that I think it was intentional. Losing the individual voices of the local characters juxtaposed against the soft meat arrivals that were so eccentric set up a battle that ended up being extremely entertaining. When Flute greeted Falise her thoughts on what happened were spot on believable and set the stage for the huge character arc to follow. We revisit an aged Kylee and see her development as well. I can tell a lot of time went into crafting Falise and Kylee's characters and I for one am here for it. I'd love to see Kylee space out and become a famous representative for Donovan as an adult. The Transluna elite would start getting a designer TriRNA look. I absolutely loved everything about this book. If you're new to the series. Start with book 1 and read them in order.
Genre: Science Fiction
Plotpoints: new arrivals to PA arrive with an agenda. Can they survive?
Character Development: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
KU/library or Buy-worthy? Buy it
Similar vibe: Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky, Dead Silence by SA Barnes
As with the rest of the Donovan series Reckoning by W. Michael Gear is a look into the hardships and trials of interstellar travel and colonization of an alien world. The series feels more real to me with sentient predatory plant and animal life. The people of Port Authority are tested constantly. Think wild west/medieval engineering mixed with sci fi quantum theory and horror elements. For non sci fi readers this is a series I would absolutely recommend. The verbiage is easy, understandable and the characters include a cast of diverse strong characters and truly villainous bad guys. Political maneuvering is a plot staple. This is not a romance. There are some connections in the series but it's not the focus. Spice level is 0.
With this book six I felt like the PA characters all lost their individual voices a bit in the face of the Corporation sending representatives from some of the families. There was a lot of repeated "Get it", "Got it", "Get this" which "got me" nothing but annoyed. They blended together into a single Donovian attitude instead of the individual personalities that I've come to love. However, Falise and the other Family Reps were such singularly ridiculous characters that I think it was intentional. Losing the individual voices of the local characters juxtaposed against the soft meat arrivals that were so eccentric set up a battle that ended up being extremely entertaining. When Flute greeted Falise her thoughts on what happened were spot on believable and set the stage for the huge character arc to follow. We revisit an aged Kylee and see her development as well. I can tell a lot of time went into crafting Falise and Kylee's characters and I for one am here for it. I'd love to see Kylee space out and become a famous representative for Donovan as an adult. The Transluna elite would start getting a designer TriRNA look. I absolutely loved everything about this book. If you're new to the series. Start with book 1 and read them in order.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2024
I'm happy with this book.
I was going to quit the series after the last two, books 4 and 5 just didn't work for me.
Plot in this one was pretty light, but the characters all shone.
The action scenes were all good, too.
Surprised by the ending (s), I am now really curious how things will go forward for PA after these changes.
I hope there will be more books in the series.
I was going to quit the series after the last two, books 4 and 5 just didn't work for me.
Plot in this one was pretty light, but the characters all shone.
The action scenes were all good, too.
Surprised by the ending (s), I am now really curious how things will go forward for PA after these changes.
I hope there will be more books in the series.
November 11, 2022
4.5*
The Donovan series is just such a win. In fact, I really want someone to make it into a show. Imagine the visuals, if you will: a whole planet with crap that can (and make no mistake, will) kill you. I know I have said this before, but this would be gold. If I keep proclaiming this enough, maybe it will come to fruition. (Feel free to add me to the Writer's Room, I have ideas.)
Erm, I digress. Obviously, I need to keep this pretty vague because by book six, all sorts of chaos has ensued on and around Donovan. I would say that Reckoning is easily the most character-driven book of the series, but I think it worked. Especially considering how dark and chaotic (in the good way, mind) book five was, I think it was a great choice to allow the characters a bit of respite- or rather, some milder chaos and danger, this is Donovan after all. I loved that we did get to see how the characters are processing all that they've been through, and we did get to meet some new characters who seemingly will figure in a lot as the series goes on.
Having them grapple with who they are now versus who they have been (and what they have done) in the past really brings not only a great spotlight on their respective growth, but gives the reader a lot to ponder. What would we do in their shoes? Who would we have become after all they've had to go through, and the choices they've had to make. Always here for not only the grayest of gray morality, but the aftermath of having to make the most dire of choices.
Bottom Line: A very character-driven installment, but still completely chock-full of your favorite Donovanian nightmares. Bring on Book 7!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
The Donovan series is just such a win. In fact, I really want someone to make it into a show. Imagine the visuals, if you will: a whole planet with crap that can (and make no mistake, will) kill you. I know I have said this before, but this would be gold. If I keep proclaiming this enough, maybe it will come to fruition. (Feel free to add me to the Writer's Room, I have ideas.)
Erm, I digress. Obviously, I need to keep this pretty vague because by book six, all sorts of chaos has ensued on and around Donovan. I would say that Reckoning is easily the most character-driven book of the series, but I think it worked. Especially considering how dark and chaotic (in the good way, mind) book five was, I think it was a great choice to allow the characters a bit of respite- or rather, some milder chaos and danger, this is Donovan after all. I loved that we did get to see how the characters are processing all that they've been through, and we did get to meet some new characters who seemingly will figure in a lot as the series goes on.
Having them grapple with who they are now versus who they have been (and what they have done) in the past really brings not only a great spotlight on their respective growth, but gives the reader a lot to ponder. What would we do in their shoes? Who would we have become after all they've had to go through, and the choices they've had to make. Always here for not only the grayest of gray morality, but the aftermath of having to make the most dire of choices.
Bottom Line: A very character-driven installment, but still completely chock-full of your favorite Donovanian nightmares. Bring on Book 7!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
September 26, 2022
Reckoning
By W. Michael Gear
Always a master with word, Michael has named this book as it should be. The hint itself is the title. The book is a reckoning for all the characters new and old in the book. The soft meat has made it to Donovan. After the successful return to Earth of Turalon and Ashanti, overflowing with cargo, and plundering rich despots, protected by family, there will be a reckoning. What the corporation does not understand is their methods do not work on Donovan. Their wormtongue-esque, corporate sponsored investigators are in the scare of a lifetime. People come to Donovan for three reasons, to leave, to find themselves and to die. This book stays true to the Donovan epitaph, as the families of the corporation learn the hard way, even the Taglioni family. It's better to have a lineage than a family. Great job, Michael, and you need a seventh book. Someone else back at Transluna needs a reckoning.
September 29, 2022
The Turalon makes it back from the solar system with much needed supplies , but also with four representatives of the most powerful families in the corporation and a Board Appointed Inspector General arriving things could get nasty. Donovan and Port Authority are a scrappy colony where individuals have learned to survive the hard way or die. Strange animal and plant life is constantly trying g to wipe you off the planet.
In this sixth book in the series, the Corporation thinks it is going to get better control of it's interests ( the billions of dollars worth of exotic minerals and gemstone; examples of which were returned on the flights of the Turalon and the Ashanti to the Solar System). The atmosphere is tense since the colonist and the corporate mine employees are happy and surviving well as they are and are resistant to change. There develops intrigue, murder, betrayals, camaraderie, friendships, rivalries and a lot of action; not to mention the planet Donovan being the killer planet it is.
This is a terrific read!!! I have read the complete series to date and hope for more!!!!
In this sixth book in the series, the Corporation thinks it is going to get better control of it's interests ( the billions of dollars worth of exotic minerals and gemstone; examples of which were returned on the flights of the Turalon and the Ashanti to the Solar System). The atmosphere is tense since the colonist and the corporate mine employees are happy and surviving well as they are and are resistant to change. There develops intrigue, murder, betrayals, camaraderie, friendships, rivalries and a lot of action; not to mention the planet Donovan being the killer planet it is.
This is a terrific read!!! I have read the complete series to date and hope for more!!!!
December 4, 2023
Wow! I must have been a good boy. God is obviously rewarding me for putting up with some amateurish writing recently because here's another really good read in a row. Adrenaline-packed, flowing, fascinating characters and a deadly planet to boot... what more can one want?
To be honest, it is the planet, Donovan, that's the real hero... and didn't it feel just a little bit cosier this time round? Or is it that I'm just getting used to its deadly terrors....
Actually, now that I think about it, there were moments I was glad to be in my safe cocoon not living in total dread and ending up being ripped apart by some alien creature... but on Donovan it's the humans who are alien...
If you love SF then you'll love this... but there are very few spaceships or Space Opera here, just adventure... perhaps it's just a case of "If you love good story-telling and adventure...?"
To be honest, it is the planet, Donovan, that's the real hero... and didn't it feel just a little bit cosier this time round? Or is it that I'm just getting used to its deadly terrors....
Actually, now that I think about it, there were moments I was glad to be in my safe cocoon not living in total dread and ending up being ripped apart by some alien creature... but on Donovan it's the humans who are alien...
If you love SF then you'll love this... but there are very few spaceships or Space Opera here, just adventure... perhaps it's just a case of "If you love good story-telling and adventure...?"
October 30, 2023
W. Michael Gear may likely never be recognized in the same way Stephen King is—as a literary treasure house beloved by tens of millions around the world. Except maybe by his own fans, myself included. The man can write, and has written some amazing stories that entertain, thrill, and capture the imagination. It doesn't matter whether he is writing science fiction as with the Donovan series, a two part western like Morning River and Coyote Summer, or a timely contemporary apocalyptic series like the Wyoming Chronicles.
Of all his works, the Donovan series, a blend of western and science fiction set off world, is perhaps the most entertaining and original. In this series Gear imagines an entirely different world complete with bizarre wildlife and exotic flora that has proven to be intelligent and lethal. Instead of DNA, the earthly building blocks of humans, he imagines TriNA as the building blocks of every living thing on Donovan. This accounts for an enhanced form of intelligence and interconnection that brings the planet alive in a way not familiar to humans.
He envisions a wild west scenario, a planet of pioneers like the western settlers of the American west—learning to make do and fend for themselves as they scratch a living from a hostile land. The one and only town on the entire planet, Port Authority, is filled with crazy libertarians practicing the truest form of capitalism: you want something you pay for it or you make it yourself and then sell it to others.
Enter the corporation that funded the expedition to Donovan and owns everything on the planet. Or do they? Early in the series the current board appointed supervisor, Kalico Aguila, struck a deal giving Port Authority to its residents, free of corporate control. Everything else and everywhere else on the planet her word is law. In Book #6, Reckoning, the board has sent a new corporate representative, an Inspector General, with full authority to remove Aguila from her position.
Several of the ruling families on Transluna, home to the Corporation, have sent representatives each hoping to be appointed the new supervisor. The most powerful of those families, the Taglioni's, has sent their daughter, Falise, sister to Dek Taglioni now a loved and respected resident of Donovan, to assess what's going on. There is no love lost between Dek and Falise. In her mind her brother was a useless and insufferable fop, incapable of caring about anything.
As far as Dek is concerned his sister is the one without character: a highly trained assassin and family tool whose experience with life has been jaded by her family's immense wealth and power. In Dek's estimation she is as dangerous as she is useless and clueless. She, like the Inspector General and the other family representatives accompanying her, have no idea what's in store for them on the planet.
O the arrogance of the rich and powerful. The silliness of how they dress, what they think, how they act. The disdain for people not of their class. Their puffed up elitism, sense of entitlement, and lives of ease have left them easy marks, or as they say on Donovan, "soft meat." That, coupled with the fact that Port Authority is now an established thriving settlement, a community where people have learned to work together and rely on each other in order to survive, sets the stage for disaster.
Donovians are a pragmatic bunch of survivors who take nothing for granted and they certainly could care less about a ship full of dandies regardless of their titles or family's wealth. If they don't end up killing them, the planet most likely will. Respect Donovan or perish. And don't mess with our Supervisor. She's one of us.
Of all his works, the Donovan series, a blend of western and science fiction set off world, is perhaps the most entertaining and original. In this series Gear imagines an entirely different world complete with bizarre wildlife and exotic flora that has proven to be intelligent and lethal. Instead of DNA, the earthly building blocks of humans, he imagines TriNA as the building blocks of every living thing on Donovan. This accounts for an enhanced form of intelligence and interconnection that brings the planet alive in a way not familiar to humans.
He envisions a wild west scenario, a planet of pioneers like the western settlers of the American west—learning to make do and fend for themselves as they scratch a living from a hostile land. The one and only town on the entire planet, Port Authority, is filled with crazy libertarians practicing the truest form of capitalism: you want something you pay for it or you make it yourself and then sell it to others.
Enter the corporation that funded the expedition to Donovan and owns everything on the planet. Or do they? Early in the series the current board appointed supervisor, Kalico Aguila, struck a deal giving Port Authority to its residents, free of corporate control. Everything else and everywhere else on the planet her word is law. In Book #6, Reckoning, the board has sent a new corporate representative, an Inspector General, with full authority to remove Aguila from her position.
Several of the ruling families on Transluna, home to the Corporation, have sent representatives each hoping to be appointed the new supervisor. The most powerful of those families, the Taglioni's, has sent their daughter, Falise, sister to Dek Taglioni now a loved and respected resident of Donovan, to assess what's going on. There is no love lost between Dek and Falise. In her mind her brother was a useless and insufferable fop, incapable of caring about anything.
As far as Dek is concerned his sister is the one without character: a highly trained assassin and family tool whose experience with life has been jaded by her family's immense wealth and power. In Dek's estimation she is as dangerous as she is useless and clueless. She, like the Inspector General and the other family representatives accompanying her, have no idea what's in store for them on the planet.
O the arrogance of the rich and powerful. The silliness of how they dress, what they think, how they act. The disdain for people not of their class. Their puffed up elitism, sense of entitlement, and lives of ease have left them easy marks, or as they say on Donovan, "soft meat." That, coupled with the fact that Port Authority is now an established thriving settlement, a community where people have learned to work together and rely on each other in order to survive, sets the stage for disaster.
Donovians are a pragmatic bunch of survivors who take nothing for granted and they certainly could care less about a ship full of dandies regardless of their titles or family's wealth. If they don't end up killing them, the planet most likely will. Respect Donovan or perish. And don't mess with our Supervisor. She's one of us.
July 2, 2023
Well another outstanding yarn from W. Michael Gear. With the demise of the Expanse series, it is very nice that for me another rip roaring science fiction series has been able to take its place. In book six the shit has definitely hit the fan on Donovan. When the psychopath Dan Wirth was sent back to Transluna with unlimited wealth and a tenuous hold on social interaction it set into motion a series of events that leads to a shit storm on Donovan. The corporate families rule by power, and wealth in the original Earth solar system. The sheer wealth on Donovan has now caused a potential shift in the power structure and in order to protect their place at the top of the food chain several of the head families have sent representatives to Donovan to "observe and report." Which in the corporate world means to kill any and all threats to the elite power structure. Unfortunately for them Donovan has its own agenda and that usually involves violent death. Also, to add another dimension the Board of Corporate directors has sent a board appointed inspector general to determine if Kalico, the current supervisor should be replaced. Kalico is a beloved figure on Donovan so any attempt at removal will be met with rebellion and very armed resistance. To back up the inspector general 30 fully armed Marines have also been sent to Donovan. As the book progresses the body count rises and the hi-jinx get real. Another fantastic entry in the Donovan saga. One I highly recommend.
November 25, 2022
More like 4.5
I love this series about the colonization of a distant plant by (for lack of a better word) Earthlings.
This is the sixth in the Donovan books, and it's near-impossible to give a plot summary without spoilers for those who are further behind in the series. My love of these books is likely sparked by Gear's anthropological background. The issues he brings to the forefront--such as cultural contact, "discovery" of different physical environments, exploitation--are similar to those faced by and still felt in areas of the world conquered or taken over by foreign powers, especially by Western Europeans over the last 600-700 years. In addition, he explores the ways colonists begin to diverge from their country/land/planet of origin.
The characters continue to grow and develop; the planet Donovan still offers surprises; and the action, politics, and personal power maneuvering never ends. I hope there are many, many more books to come.
As with the previous books in the series, this audiobook is performed by Alyssa Bresnahan, who nails the characters' personalities and pulls us completely into the Donovan universe.
This book was in my personal library.
I love this series about the colonization of a distant plant by (for lack of a better word) Earthlings.
This is the sixth in the Donovan books, and it's near-impossible to give a plot summary without spoilers for those who are further behind in the series. My love of these books is likely sparked by Gear's anthropological background. The issues he brings to the forefront--such as cultural contact, "discovery" of different physical environments, exploitation--are similar to those faced by and still felt in areas of the world conquered or taken over by foreign powers, especially by Western Europeans over the last 600-700 years. In addition, he explores the ways colonists begin to diverge from their country/land/planet of origin.
The characters continue to grow and develop; the planet Donovan still offers surprises; and the action, politics, and personal power maneuvering never ends. I hope there are many, many more books to come.
As with the previous books in the series, this audiobook is performed by Alyssa Bresnahan, who nails the characters' personalities and pulls us completely into the Donovan universe.
This book was in my personal library.
January 8, 2023
Reading Reckoning is like revisiting and living through another Donovan adventure.
I liked revisiting the Donovan world in Reckoning and living another adventure with Talina, Dek, Kalico, Shig, Kylee, and Flute, as well as the many supporting residents of Port Authority and Corporate Mining who make Donovan governments work together. Donovan has surprises and life-changing lessons for the new Corporate powerful enforcers from off-world. Most impressive is Dek’s estranged sister, Falise, who believes she will dominate through intimidation, only to fall flat and finds herself being rescued by the very people she planned to destroy. The evolving settlement of this strange and dangerous world portray the purpose and clash of government systems while emphasizing how rigid corporate rules, overly-strict fiscal efficiency and social hierarchy suffocates common sense and personal freedom while promoting greed, oppression, and tyranny.
I liked revisiting the Donovan world in Reckoning and living another adventure with Talina, Dek, Kalico, Shig, Kylee, and Flute, as well as the many supporting residents of Port Authority and Corporate Mining who make Donovan governments work together. Donovan has surprises and life-changing lessons for the new Corporate powerful enforcers from off-world. Most impressive is Dek’s estranged sister, Falise, who believes she will dominate through intimidation, only to fall flat and finds herself being rescued by the very people she planned to destroy. The evolving settlement of this strange and dangerous world portray the purpose and clash of government systems while emphasizing how rigid corporate rules, overly-strict fiscal efficiency and social hierarchy suffocates common sense and personal freedom while promoting greed, oppression, and tyranny.
January 31, 2023
*4.5 stars!
An exhilarating addition to the Donovan series. I only wish that Gear had extended the novel by a hundred pages so he could have included even more plot development and murderous creatures.
The book was a bit too heavy on character development to receive a five-star review -- the focus on Falise Taglioni was too extreme for my taste. There should have been more emphasis on the southern diggings and the Supervisor herself (Kalico remains my absolute favorite character).
I can only hope that Gear is not starting to run out of ideas, as Reckoning is somewhat reminiscent of Outpost. Overall, Reckoning was a strong novel, but remained somewhat lacking in the spheres of plot development and dangerous beasties.
An exhilarating addition to the Donovan series. I only wish that Gear had extended the novel by a hundred pages so he could have included even more plot development and murderous creatures.
The book was a bit too heavy on character development to receive a five-star review -- the focus on Falise Taglioni was too extreme for my taste. There should have been more emphasis on the southern diggings and the Supervisor herself (Kalico remains my absolute favorite character).
I can only hope that Gear is not starting to run out of ideas, as Reckoning is somewhat reminiscent of Outpost. Overall, Reckoning was a strong novel, but remained somewhat lacking in the spheres of plot development and dangerous beasties.
October 12, 2024
Reckoning is the 6th (and currently last) book in the Donovan series by W Michael Gear. Company people arrive to the planet, leading to a reckoning of the leadership in place.
The book had all the great hallmarks of previous novels – the newbies facing the harsh realities of Donovan, the strong female characters (some now hybrid human/quetzal), the comradery between the locals. But sometimes it also had a bit too much familiarity – I liked the previous two books more as they introduced something new and different (the maritime setting, the cannibals) – whereas some of this book felt more of the same.
It was still a great read though, and cements this as one of the best SF series around for me.
The book had all the great hallmarks of previous novels – the newbies facing the harsh realities of Donovan, the strong female characters (some now hybrid human/quetzal), the comradery between the locals. But sometimes it also had a bit too much familiarity – I liked the previous two books more as they introduced something new and different (the maritime setting, the cannibals) – whereas some of this book felt more of the same.
It was still a great read though, and cements this as one of the best SF series around for me.
November 12, 2022
Reckoning (Donovan 6)
I absolutely LOVE Donovan and it's characters. Gear has created an absolutely descriptive world that you can imagine while you read, see it clearly when you close your eyes and without boring you in useless details. A sci-fi novel with adventure, romance, intrigue, suspense, and thrills. Plus soooo much more.
I sincerely hope that this is not the last book in the series! I also hope we can get a novella of Falise and Cinque's return to corporate, as well as an update on that scum Dan Wirth.
Thank you Mr. Gear for your wonderful stories, I enjoy them all no matter which genre.
I absolutely LOVE Donovan and it's characters. Gear has created an absolutely descriptive world that you can imagine while you read, see it clearly when you close your eyes and without boring you in useless details. A sci-fi novel with adventure, romance, intrigue, suspense, and thrills. Plus soooo much more.
I sincerely hope that this is not the last book in the series! I also hope we can get a novella of Falise and Cinque's return to corporate, as well as an update on that scum Dan Wirth.
Thank you Mr. Gear for your wonderful stories, I enjoy them all no matter which genre.
April 4, 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of W.Michael Gear's previous Donovan books. This one kept me engaged enough to finish it in two days...lots of excitement and action. However, I found this story less than I had hoped for since it pretty much repeated themes from previous books: snooty, entitled representatives of powerful Earth families come to Donovan to "straighten out" the planet's operations and inhabitants. Each either dies or leaves and a few come to an awakening about how things really work on Donovan. Still, I hope Gear continues with this series, but hopefully with some fresh ideas.
July 2, 2025
After the last few duds, I was surprised by how good this was - despite the cheesy fake swear words and "welcome to Donovan" nonsense. And then there's the unbelievable economy (what motivates Inga to work so hard and not charge a lot more when her customers are rich?) and the unsustainable environment (there's no way there are enough calories available to sustain a planet of huge alien monsters). And if the corporation is so evil, it really makes more sense for them to nuke the planet and mine it in radiation suits - a fact the author referenced more than once. But yeah, I couldn't put it down.
August 30, 2022
Sometimes a little hard to follow but an enjoyable Sci-Fi action filled book. The world building was great but took me a bit of time to adjust to and to get into. I typically don’t review Sci-Fi books but I did enjoy this one! I’d recommend it to people who like books with aliens/different worlds. I feel like the dangers and the confrontations were well thought out and interesting! The book did not really have much drag for me. I would give it 4 stars even out of my normal genre (which is romance/rom-com/supernatural).
July 3, 2024
Action packed tale of dirty dealings between the factions of the Corporate families vs the Donovan residents. In this instalment we meet Falise Taglioni Dek’s little sister. Talina and Dek are still a couple and have taken a number of people into their little genetically altered family in Port Authority. Kalico Aguila is under attack from the Corporation and there are five families after her head and there are all sorts of dirty dealings and assignations in play. Exciting read and I for one hope the series continues.
August 8, 2024
This book has officially surpassed Pariah as my favorite in the series. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish as the political intrigue and classic Donovan drama unfolded.
I particularly loved how a character mentioned in the first book reappeared, helping to solidify some of the backstory from the initial installment. Reckoning managed to wrap up many ongoing plot threads from previous books while still leaving a few tantalizingly unresolved for future stories. I can't wait to see what happens next!
I particularly loved how a character mentioned in the first book reappeared, helping to solidify some of the backstory from the initial installment. Reckoning managed to wrap up many ongoing plot threads from previous books while still leaving a few tantalizingly unresolved for future stories. I can't wait to see what happens next!
August 25, 2024
My anticipation for this next Dovovan novel was real and it did not disappoint for sure. The book does the same, the first 160 pages or so, it surfs on the anticipation what would happen if fresh meat arrives on Donovan and the corporate bitch fight starts. I enjoyed this a lot and the corporate protagonists are as expected. In the last bit of the book, I had the impression I had seen it before: the crashed air car in the jungle, the trial, and the politics. Still solid 4 stars for me. I hope there will be a #7, but maybe with bigger happenings.
January 21, 2023
I highly reccomend this series even if Sci-fi is not your normal genre. There is more to the story than the sci-fi. The people, the lessons they learn and the failures made by those who don't.
** Welcome to Donovan! **
Once again we get to see how the eco-system of Donovan dominates the political macinations of the Corporate world.
Sure it's "just" a planet, sure.
Every single time, Donovan wins.
** Welcome to Donovan! **
Once again we get to see how the eco-system of Donovan dominates the political macinations of the Corporate world.
Sure it's "just" a planet, sure.
Every single time, Donovan wins.
August 12, 2023
Omg.
The reality is that I am obsessed with these books. Every single time one is released I wait as long as I can to read it, and then I take as long as I can to finish it. I think about these books when I’m not reading them and there’s just something about the entire concept that fascinates me. I wish there were a million books set on Donovan and that the series never ends! This is genuinely one of my top five favorite series of all time ever.
The reality is that I am obsessed with these books. Every single time one is released I wait as long as I can to read it, and then I take as long as I can to finish it. I think about these books when I’m not reading them and there’s just something about the entire concept that fascinates me. I wish there were a million books set on Donovan and that the series never ends! This is genuinely one of my top five favorite series of all time ever.
August 13, 2023
Superb. Again. The ongoing saga of the planet Donovan and its people takes another fascinating turn. This instalment continues the excellent story with more wonderful characters and world building, some of the best you’ll find anywhere. It has been one of those fortuitous discoveries, leaving me slightly disappointed to finish each book and eager to get stuck into the next. Bring on book seven! It doesn’t look like this series is going to wind up any time soon either. Good.
September 1, 2022
I love this series. I can't wait to find out what Donovan is going to come up with next. We meet Falise, Dek's sister and she couldn't be more different than him. Political intrigue and shady dealings are her game. Glad to see the Corporate bigwigs get their comeuppance in the end. I wouldn't want to live on Donovan but I sure love reading about it.
March 6, 2023
I still enjoy the overall story of Donovan and this one was definitely one that mainly moved the overall story along rather than having a sub-story's that some of the other books have been more focused on. I enjoyed it but not as much as some of the others in the series. I will for sure keep reading this series if it continues as I love the characters and overall story.
December 28, 2022
Another outstanding chapter in this unique and compelling series. If you haven't read these yet I cannot recommend them enough. The setting and characters are compelling and true to themselves. It's as good as The Expanse series.
-tpl
-tpl
February 20, 2023
Kid in a Candystore
Love the characters and the planet. Feel like a kid whenever a new entry is made available to enjoy! I truly hope the author will continue to feed appetite for other worldly adventures with a great cast of characters on a fantastic planet
Love the characters and the planet. Feel like a kid whenever a new entry is made available to enjoy! I truly hope the author will continue to feed appetite for other worldly adventures with a great cast of characters on a fantastic planet
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