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Rogue Hunter Universe
Rogue Hunter: Quest of the Hunter
Zyra Zanr is the most feared bounty hunter in the galaxy. Criminals everywhere cower at her name. During the attempt to capture a notorious fugitive, she stumbles onto a conspiracy to murder the senators of the InterGalactic Alliance. Behind this plot is a clandestine force seeking to destroy not only the InterGalactic Alliance, but mankind as well.
War looms on the horizon as Zyra collides with this deadly force threatening to rock the very foundations of time and space. Zyra’s quest to uncover the mastermind behind this plot will pit her against an evil menace beyond her wildest imagination. Only Zyra can save humanity from an impending holocaust. Victory will mean the salvation of the human race. Failure will mean the end of all that Zyra holds dear. The battle for the future has begun! WINNER OF THE RED ADEPT ANNUAL INDIE AWARD (2010) 'TOP SCIENCE FICTION'
War looms on the horizon as Zyra collides with this deadly force threatening to rock the very foundations of time and space. Zyra’s quest to uncover the mastermind behind this plot will pit her against an evil menace beyond her wildest imagination. Only Zyra can save humanity from an impending holocaust. Victory will mean the salvation of the human race. Failure will mean the end of all that Zyra holds dear. The battle for the future has begun! WINNER OF THE RED ADEPT ANNUAL INDIE AWARD (2010) 'TOP SCIENCE FICTION'
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2009
About the author
Kevis Hendrickson
39 books175 followersKevis Hendrickson is the author of eight Science Fiction and Fantasy novels, including The Legend of Witch Bane and the Rogue Hunter series. His second novel Rogue Hunter: Quest of the Hunter won the Red Adept Annual Indie Award (2010) for 'Top Science Fiction'. His most recent novel is Rogue Hunter: Valor. The sixth book in the series, Rogue Hunter: Death Moon, is scheduled for release in 2017. Along with an epic fantasy re-telling of Cinderella, he is working on a brand new urban fantasy series which also makes its debut this year. He has also published one novella, one epic poem, one non-fiction book, and eight short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 4, 2012
Zyra Zanr is one tough cookie. She is willing to tackle challenges on a galactic scale with almost no-one covering her back and manages to survive time and time again. Rogue Hunter: Quest of the Hunter tells her story admirably. It starts on a high note and maintains it throughout. Zyra is an interesting character and I loved the men in her life. They each have a little something to appreciate about them. There are a few too many 'and then she suddenly saw a ...' -- insert miraculously placed laundry shoot to dive down, convenient atmospheric control panels to change air content and kill pursuing aliens, willing pilot to rescue you at the last second, etc. Similarly, Zyra's talents seemed to be almost boundless. She is faster, stronger, smarter than almost everyone else. While I accept that as the 'Grande Dame Bounty Hunter' that is to be expected, credibility is stretch a little too thin when she and her unaltered equipment are still hacking computer 300 years in the future. Does technology not progress in the future universe?
There is a pretty drastic shift in the book and plot about half-way through and I don't feel like the second half holds up as well as the first. This is largely because [without giving too much away] she looses contact with all of her friends leaving almost no-one for her to interact with. Therefore the story becomes much more heavily dependent on description of feelings, thoughts and actions than on the direct interaction of characters. Despite this a lot of ground is covered and the action continues. This is the first in a series of books focusing on Zyra. (At least I think it is the first. There is definitely room for prequels.) Arcs are left open and there are definitely unanswered questions at the end. But there is more than enough here to keep the reader interested. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next instalment.
There is a pretty drastic shift in the book and plot about half-way through and I don't feel like the second half holds up as well as the first. This is largely because [without giving too much away] she looses contact with all of her friends leaving almost no-one for her to interact with. Therefore the story becomes much more heavily dependent on description of feelings, thoughts and actions than on the direct interaction of characters. Despite this a lot of ground is covered and the action continues. This is the first in a series of books focusing on Zyra. (At least I think it is the first. There is definitely room for prequels.) Arcs are left open and there are definitely unanswered questions at the end. But there is more than enough here to keep the reader interested. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next instalment.
June 24, 2009
I really enjoyed Rogue Hunter and thought the world Hendrickson created was awesome. I felt it was just a little rushed in parts but since I'm a fan of 13-volume epic stories it could be just my preference. I love the protagonist and the excellent action scenes; I wish I could take on the bad guys like she did! Can I bring Zyra to my next meeting at work, LOL? I didn't get attached to her until almost the end of the book, but I loved her spunk and sass and I thought she was an amazing, kick-a$$ kinda gal! I've heard the author has really worked to give her more depth and life for the sequel so I will be excited when it comes out and I can hear more of Zyra's story. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book and I will certainly buy it. If you're a space-opera fan this is a great book for your collection.
August 30, 2009
This is the first space opera novel I've spent the time reading - and it was very exciting stuff. The language (futuristic language) and settings were utterly believable - check out Zyra's outfit: the "encounter-suit (an exoskeletal arrangement of high-tech machinery and 52nd century body armor), to detect even the slightest variation of her bio-signs - a most vital instrument during her 'hunts.'" Snazzy!
Zyra is not to be messed with; she was a cadet in the Intergalactic Alliance Space Marine Academy. The action scenes really showcase her excellent fighting abilities. Now lest you think that the character is a kick-butt girl with no brain, there's the following text (from the book):
---
Contrary to popular belief, thorough investigation of her targets (not her trigger finger!) was the reason for her success as an intergalactic bounty hunter.
---
I enjoyed the above passage in the book lots. At the same time that Zyra is trying to "fit together the pieces" of the puzzle (regarding her efforts in locating Fal Orono's hiding place) - the reader is given an extremely detailed and vivid backdrop of the world this entire story takes place in. I thought that was very skillful and original on the author's part.
The strength and internal struggles of the lead female character were well-presented - she is a great strong, female protagonist. She's dead focused on a mission - she's intelligent - she's able to "move with a fox's grace", while infiltrating a missile base! Reminds me of the accomplished, acrobatic Lara Croft (from the ubertastic Tomb Raider world).
The ending leaves you wanting to know what happens next (in a good way) - which you can find out in the sequel. The last line of Rogue Hunter totally sums up Zyra's character - a very satisfactory line that resonates long after.
Zyra is not to be messed with; she was a cadet in the Intergalactic Alliance Space Marine Academy. The action scenes really showcase her excellent fighting abilities. Now lest you think that the character is a kick-butt girl with no brain, there's the following text (from the book):
---
Contrary to popular belief, thorough investigation of her targets (not her trigger finger!) was the reason for her success as an intergalactic bounty hunter.
---
I enjoyed the above passage in the book lots. At the same time that Zyra is trying to "fit together the pieces" of the puzzle (regarding her efforts in locating Fal Orono's hiding place) - the reader is given an extremely detailed and vivid backdrop of the world this entire story takes place in. I thought that was very skillful and original on the author's part.
The strength and internal struggles of the lead female character were well-presented - she is a great strong, female protagonist. She's dead focused on a mission - she's intelligent - she's able to "move with a fox's grace", while infiltrating a missile base! Reminds me of the accomplished, acrobatic Lara Croft (from the ubertastic Tomb Raider world).
The ending leaves you wanting to know what happens next (in a good way) - which you can find out in the sequel. The last line of Rogue Hunter totally sums up Zyra's character - a very satisfactory line that resonates long after.
April 19, 2010
I have to say before I begin I am a big fan of all things sci-fi. One of the best shows that unfortunately was cancelled before it had a shot to play out was Firefly. Rogue Hunter: Quest of the Hunter, plays out much like Firefly, but carries its own weight. The story engages the reader in a story of what happens to the human race. A future look into where we go as a race always changes based on the writer. But Hendrickson's tale of humanity's future travels in a different direction than Star Wars or Star Trek. When you read a space tale you want something original and unique to take your mind away and into space hopping around the galaxy.
Now the real story is about the “Rogue Hunter”. A hero in any story has their own reasons for fighting for those that can't fight back. Zyra Zanr journey is no different. Hendrickson creates a hero that wears so many hats that it would weigh anyone down. Zyra Zanr is a woman, a bounty hunter, a warrior, and yes, a hero. Hendrickson seems to effortless move about each part of this woman's life. You will enjoy reading how this girl kicks ass while feeling for her as the man she loves is killed.
Zyra's quest to unravel the mystery surrounding the death of her father results in an epic showdown with the forces of Zaragos, where Zyra shows the strength of will to bring those responsible to justice. In the end she takes up the fight to protect humans, shedding her rogue exterior to embrace her destiny.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to everyone. I look forward to the sequel.
Now the real story is about the “Rogue Hunter”. A hero in any story has their own reasons for fighting for those that can't fight back. Zyra Zanr journey is no different. Hendrickson creates a hero that wears so many hats that it would weigh anyone down. Zyra Zanr is a woman, a bounty hunter, a warrior, and yes, a hero. Hendrickson seems to effortless move about each part of this woman's life. You will enjoy reading how this girl kicks ass while feeling for her as the man she loves is killed.
Zyra's quest to unravel the mystery surrounding the death of her father results in an epic showdown with the forces of Zaragos, where Zyra shows the strength of will to bring those responsible to justice. In the end she takes up the fight to protect humans, shedding her rogue exterior to embrace her destiny.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to everyone. I look forward to the sequel.
May 15, 2010
Review of Rogue Hunter, Quest of the Hunter
The year is 4800 A.D. Humanity has moved to the stars, a new age has begun. After years of conflict with the alien races of the Draedea Galaxy, the Human Confederation of Worlds has aligned itself with the Space Union to form a new government called the InterGalactic Alliance. Peace brings prosperity to humanity. Anxious to take their place as premier members of the Alliance, humans are poised to become the strongest race in the galaxy, but the threat of war looms on the horizon. A clandestine force operating behind the guise of a powerful criminal organization conspires to destroy the InterGalactic Alliance. Unbeknownst to her, all that stands between this sinister plot for humanity's destruction is a young bounty hunter named Zyra Zanr. And so it begins...
This novel by Kevis Hendrickson is wonderfully set in a science fiction world, but in my opinion is really an action-adventure novel in disguise. Trade the future for the old west, it's an old fashioned shoot'em up. That's not at all a bad thing, I prefer action and adventure to heavyweight science fiction. All the sci fi elements are there, but they're just an interesting backdrop to the well written action, romance, and adventure. Yes, you read that right, this book as all the elements of all four genres. If you like sci fi, there's plenty of that. If you want romance, there's a great romance in this story, all wrapped up in lots of action and adventure. I had to put this book aside at times, but didn't want to. It's a very pleasurable read, not very difficult to understand, and keeps you turning pages, or in this case scrolling down, I read an early edition in electronic format. Speaking to that, I read the early edition, at that time it was a very pleasant read, but there were some minor repairs needed. If those repairs are made when Mr. Hendrickson is in top form, this book may become a true masterpiece of the genre, whichever genre that might be. It's close to that magical level already, it wouldn't surprise me if this book makes the jump to world class, spiraling to the heights of Doug Adams, or maybe even as well known and respected as Rodenberry. Mr. Hendrickson is already a magnificent writer, at the rate he keeps improving, it shouldn't be very long until he soars with the greats of our age, perhaps he can even surpass them, that my friends, only time will tell.
The year is 4800 A.D. Humanity has moved to the stars, a new age has begun. After years of conflict with the alien races of the Draedea Galaxy, the Human Confederation of Worlds has aligned itself with the Space Union to form a new government called the InterGalactic Alliance. Peace brings prosperity to humanity. Anxious to take their place as premier members of the Alliance, humans are poised to become the strongest race in the galaxy, but the threat of war looms on the horizon. A clandestine force operating behind the guise of a powerful criminal organization conspires to destroy the InterGalactic Alliance. Unbeknownst to her, all that stands between this sinister plot for humanity's destruction is a young bounty hunter named Zyra Zanr. And so it begins...
This novel by Kevis Hendrickson is wonderfully set in a science fiction world, but in my opinion is really an action-adventure novel in disguise. Trade the future for the old west, it's an old fashioned shoot'em up. That's not at all a bad thing, I prefer action and adventure to heavyweight science fiction. All the sci fi elements are there, but they're just an interesting backdrop to the well written action, romance, and adventure. Yes, you read that right, this book as all the elements of all four genres. If you like sci fi, there's plenty of that. If you want romance, there's a great romance in this story, all wrapped up in lots of action and adventure. I had to put this book aside at times, but didn't want to. It's a very pleasurable read, not very difficult to understand, and keeps you turning pages, or in this case scrolling down, I read an early edition in electronic format. Speaking to that, I read the early edition, at that time it was a very pleasant read, but there were some minor repairs needed. If those repairs are made when Mr. Hendrickson is in top form, this book may become a true masterpiece of the genre, whichever genre that might be. It's close to that magical level already, it wouldn't surprise me if this book makes the jump to world class, spiraling to the heights of Doug Adams, or maybe even as well known and respected as Rodenberry. Mr. Hendrickson is already a magnificent writer, at the rate he keeps improving, it shouldn't be very long until he soars with the greats of our age, perhaps he can even surpass them, that my friends, only time will tell.
Read
September 3, 2009 This is the first time I have ever come across a book written in this style. As I got lost in the pages of ‘Rogue Hunter’ I felt more and more like I was watching it on a screen. This unique effect is mastered by the combination of incredibly fast-paced action and a somewhat detached narrative voice. “It disturbed her to no end that she could
not help but feel that this was the last time she would ever see Logos.”
That said, one of the advantages of reading a book as opposed to watching it on the screen is the reader’s ability to immerse themselves in the character’s thoughts; and in this case those thoughts and emotions are as deep, complex and ever-changing as the plot itself. Zyra, aka Rogue Hunter, is a complicated woman who wants vengeance, to save the world, and to find affirmation of the goodness and purpose of her existence. Such a complex mind could not possibly be explored with anything but masterful balance between a detached narrative and precise description of the circumstances.
Anyone who chooses to read ‘Rogue Hunter’ will find themselves tumbling in a condensed plot full of sudden twists and interesting characters.
not help but feel that this was the last time she would ever see Logos.”
That said, one of the advantages of reading a book as opposed to watching it on the screen is the reader’s ability to immerse themselves in the character’s thoughts; and in this case those thoughts and emotions are as deep, complex and ever-changing as the plot itself. Zyra, aka Rogue Hunter, is a complicated woman who wants vengeance, to save the world, and to find affirmation of the goodness and purpose of her existence. Such a complex mind could not possibly be explored with anything but masterful balance between a detached narrative and precise description of the circumstances.
Anyone who chooses to read ‘Rogue Hunter’ will find themselves tumbling in a condensed plot full of sudden twists and interesting characters.
February 15, 2011
So... how to rate this book?
It started a bit slow, which is normal when you're introducing your characters, and I wasn't really sure it was going anywhere I'd like to go. I've had my trepidations about this book since the very first time I saw it's cheezy cover, and I will admit that I went into the read at least in some way having done the proverbial judging of the book by it's cover.
As the story wound up, however, I was happily surprised by an entertaining and action packed story that made it difficult to stop reading. Always a good sign.
The book is hardly without faults, neither in the story nor in the grammar/spelling department, and although not too horrid they still cost the book a half-star.
None the less, it was a brilliant read and I definitely plan on reading the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend it to the Sci-Fi readers out there look for a fun and quick read.
It started a bit slow, which is normal when you're introducing your characters, and I wasn't really sure it was going anywhere I'd like to go. I've had my trepidations about this book since the very first time I saw it's cheezy cover, and I will admit that I went into the read at least in some way having done the proverbial judging of the book by it's cover.
As the story wound up, however, I was happily surprised by an entertaining and action packed story that made it difficult to stop reading. Always a good sign.
The book is hardly without faults, neither in the story nor in the grammar/spelling department, and although not too horrid they still cost the book a half-star.
None the less, it was a brilliant read and I definitely plan on reading the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend it to the Sci-Fi readers out there look for a fun and quick read.
October 30, 2011
This was an interesting book, one that I thought pretty good. The cover turned me off it a little, but in the end the twists and turns were very interesting.
That was what kept me turning the pages, the pretty constant twists, turns and unexpected plot lin changes. Given how much I read, I usually have a feel for how a story is going to flow. Well not this time! Seemed just when you thought you figured out what was going on, Pow! plot shifted.
So if I thought this a good book, why a 3 and not a 4? (FYI, I my mind, 3=Good, 4=Great/Super, 5=All time Classic, I rarely give a 5). I just didn't buy the emotional depth of the main character. While she seemed driven, there were some events that I felt should have seriously impacted her, but didn't seem too all that much. Now this depth did get better as the story progressed and she seemed a little more real and impacted by the events in her life, past and current.
That was what kept me turning the pages, the pretty constant twists, turns and unexpected plot lin changes. Given how much I read, I usually have a feel for how a story is going to flow. Well not this time! Seemed just when you thought you figured out what was going on, Pow! plot shifted.
So if I thought this a good book, why a 3 and not a 4? (FYI, I my mind, 3=Good, 4=Great/Super, 5=All time Classic, I rarely give a 5). I just didn't buy the emotional depth of the main character. While she seemed driven, there were some events that I felt should have seriously impacted her, but didn't seem too all that much. Now this depth did get better as the story progressed and she seemed a little more real and impacted by the events in her life, past and current.
May 5, 2011
Rouge Hunter is a good old-fashioned SciFi one man (or woman in this case) saving the universe story in the style of Harry Harrison’s Stainless Steel Rat or Simon Haynes Hal Spacejock Series. It’s a good, interesting and entertaining story that takes unexpected turns and doesn’t overreach with a lot of techno-babble or spend lots of time in scene descriptions.
The only criticisms I would have is that it drags around the three quarters mark and could do with editing to tighten up the pacing. Also, I felt that the main character, Zyra Zanr needed a bit more attitude. Sometimes she seems to be the same as the other female characters. Recommended.
The only criticisms I would have is that it drags around the three quarters mark and could do with editing to tighten up the pacing. Also, I felt that the main character, Zyra Zanr needed a bit more attitude. Sometimes she seems to be the same as the other female characters. Recommended.
December 11, 2010
They give out awards for writing this bad.
Seriously.
I've read 1-2 novels per week for most of my life, beginning when I was a pre-teen and I'm now 44 and I can honestly say I've probably only given up on 10-15 books in my life, finding them unreadable and this is one of those times.
By the time I reached page 63, I was annoyed that this was such a stupid book that I couldn't even finish it.
Save your money.
Better yet, go watch TV- it's more intelligent than this piece of garbage and that's the worst insult I can think of.
Seriously.
I've read 1-2 novels per week for most of my life, beginning when I was a pre-teen and I'm now 44 and I can honestly say I've probably only given up on 10-15 books in my life, finding them unreadable and this is one of those times.
By the time I reached page 63, I was annoyed that this was such a stupid book that I couldn't even finish it.
Save your money.
Better yet, go watch TV- it's more intelligent than this piece of garbage and that's the worst insult I can think of.
March 11, 2012
Took several unexpected plot twists, which was interesting to see. I feel like the ending was pretty heavy, though. The best way I can describe it is I read the ending, which was okay, and I see where he is going with it. But all I could say was "Well, that situation sucks", and that's where he left me. Now, it's the first in a series, so I'm sure it gets resolved, but it didn't exactly inspire me to run out for the next book.
The story itself is good, the characters interesting. I'd say it's worth reading, but don't feel like you're missing out if you don't.
The story itself is good, the characters interesting. I'd say it's worth reading, but don't feel like you're missing out if you don't.
June 11, 2011
I gave this 3* because of the sometimes clunky sentences and occasional slow passages, but overall the story was good. I would have given it 3 1/2 if Goodreads allowed half stars. The ending was sufficient for the reader not to feel cheated of an ending, while still leaving plenty of threads up in the air for the next book in the series. A good read for anyone who enjoys epic quest sci-fi.
(For the full review, visit http://www.starshipsandaliens.com
(For the full review, visit http://www.starshipsandaliens.com
October 19, 2011
Very good. Other than Star Wars (which cannot be beaten...duh), this is a sci-fi lover's dream book. It's got explosions, it's got laser guns, it's got computers gone mad, it's got SPYDERBOTS!!! I really enjoyed this book, and I'm looking forward to the sequel! Zyra is great; she's kick-butt yet you can relate to her. I would highly recommend this one to all lovers of science fiction and end-of-the-universe drama. It's got a lot of turns, and I rarely foresaw anything before it happened.
September 8, 2012
This book is one of those stories where you can imagine that you are the hero saving the universe. I love the fact that the hero is actually a heroine and shows that Boba Fett is not the only great hunter in the universe. Bravo to the author on the story and creating a worl that draws the user in. I loved it!
July 24, 2011
Complete donkey, fiction without the art or science IMHO. Oh well, I can't get that evening back....fortunately, it won't take you any longer :) Good point - requires little cerebral occupation & doesn't take long to read....
July 17, 2011
Exciting and action-y! A good sci-fi book. I really liked Zyra and the plot had a lot of unexpected twists and turns.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews