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Ruins of the Galaxy #1
Ruins of the Galaxy
The mission is simple. Escort an emissary to an intergalactic peace summit. Try not to get in the way.
Lt. Magnus and his 79th Recon Team have certainly handled worse, after all.
But when an explosion rocks the tower and sends everyone into a panic, Magnus and his asset find themselves cut off from the rest of the team.
Worse still, a dying alien chieftain gives them a priceless drive of intel, marking them for death.
The mission has officially changed.
With enemies on all sides, Magnus must do everything in his power to protect the emissary and escape the tower. There is no back up. There is no chance for failure.
The fate of the entire galaxy now lies in the hands of a Republic Marine and a diplomat.
All they have to do is survive.
Experience the beginning of this sprawling galactic tale in this first entry to the Ruins of the Galaxy series. If you’re a fan of Star Wars, Galaxy’s Edge, or Battlestar Galactica, you’ll love this military scifi epic.
Lt. Magnus and his 79th Recon Team have certainly handled worse, after all.
But when an explosion rocks the tower and sends everyone into a panic, Magnus and his asset find themselves cut off from the rest of the team.
Worse still, a dying alien chieftain gives them a priceless drive of intel, marking them for death.
The mission has officially changed.
With enemies on all sides, Magnus must do everything in his power to protect the emissary and escape the tower. There is no back up. There is no chance for failure.
The fate of the entire galaxy now lies in the hands of a Republic Marine and a diplomat.
All they have to do is survive.
Experience the beginning of this sprawling galactic tale in this first entry to the Ruins of the Galaxy series. If you’re a fan of Star Wars, Galaxy’s Edge, or Battlestar Galactica, you’ll love this military scifi epic.
600 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2019
About the author
J.N. Chaney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 13, 2019
“You choose, and the universe responds.”
This is not your regular military science fiction story, it’s more than that. It’s a combination of fantasy, thriller, mystery and suspense that really drew my attention. There’s a lot of intrigue that pulled me in from the beginning. Besides being fast paced and action packed, it’s mystic, with a mental power play, a demonstration of our basic and most shallow personality, egocentrism, power hungry and biased beliefs. The world building is fantastic, and it gave me a clear sense of how bleak the world had become. There were plenty of twists in the plot, not all predictable, which is always a nice surprise and will keep you on your toes. The writing is fast paced, brisk, and solid. The authors do add in some humour to shine a little bit of light on a dark story which was appropriate and appreciated.
Just when it seemed the suspense had peaked, Chaney and Hopper turned the ratchet another notch and forced me to read on … made me turn pages with an eagerness that defied sleep, you never know what is going to happen which made this even more fun and action packed! I’m totally snagged!
This is not your regular military science fiction story, it’s more than that. It’s a combination of fantasy, thriller, mystery and suspense that really drew my attention. There’s a lot of intrigue that pulled me in from the beginning. Besides being fast paced and action packed, it’s mystic, with a mental power play, a demonstration of our basic and most shallow personality, egocentrism, power hungry and biased beliefs. The world building is fantastic, and it gave me a clear sense of how bleak the world had become. There were plenty of twists in the plot, not all predictable, which is always a nice surprise and will keep you on your toes. The writing is fast paced, brisk, and solid. The authors do add in some humour to shine a little bit of light on a dark story which was appropriate and appreciated.
Just when it seemed the suspense had peaked, Chaney and Hopper turned the ratchet another notch and forced me to read on … made me turn pages with an eagerness that defied sleep, you never know what is going to happen which made this even more fun and action packed! I’m totally snagged!
October 6, 2019
Lt Adonis Olin Magnus, Commanding Officer of Charlie Platoon, Seventy-Ninth Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Special Units, was on a “milk-run” mission or so he thought. He was to escort one Emissary Awren dau Lothlinium of Luma to a potential peace conference between the Republic and the Jujari Empires. That’s a lot of words for one paragraph, but now you know the names of our two main characters.
Of course Lt Magnus is the warrior-type while Awren is the peaceful-type. They obviously didn’t see eye-to-eye and especially since the peace conference was going to be in hostile territory and could turn deadly at any moment. The Jujari were the on species that had opposed the Republic for as long as most could remember. They were a hostile race and very good at war. For some reason, they now wanted to discuss peace terms. Awren was to be a go-between for the negotiations if they got that far. Unfortunately, the Republic was notoriously bad.
During the conference, Lt Magnus’ job was to keep Awren safe. That was going well until the entire palace blew up! Three separate explosions, one after the other, pretty much killed everyone in the meeting except for Awren and Lt. Magnus. Awren was left unconscious while Lt Magnus just came to his senses. He found the Emissary and took her out of the palace where he hoped she would be safe.
It turns out that after running from the Jujari, they ran right into the lair of bad guy name Abimbola. He had them tied up and was just wondering if they were valuable enough for some kind or ransom or if he should just kill the two. Turns out that Awren’s family had a history with Abimbola and when he found out her full name, he completely changed his attitude. It seems Abimbola owed a very great debt of gratitude towards Awren’s family. With that debt, he immediately released both captives and promised to get them to wherever they wanted to go.
That’s when everything starts going haywire, if it wasn’t already. During the conference and before he died, the Jujari mwadim gave her a star drive which contained something that it seems everyone now wants, even her peaceful organization of Luma. Once Awren reaches her home temple, she finds that not everyone is a kind as they used to be and she eventually has to flee for her life.
Meanwhile, Lt. Magnus has been assigned to find a derelect starship that has asked for help. Apparently it has a Senator aboard with his family. Rescuing the Senator should be an easy mission, but nothing is ever easy for a Marine.
This is a good story off to a good start. I think it’s going to make for a very good series. There’s just enough humor added to make reading this book enjoyable without it getting stupid. I also can’t figure out what will happen next and that’s good for a science fiction book.
Of course Lt Magnus is the warrior-type while Awren is the peaceful-type. They obviously didn’t see eye-to-eye and especially since the peace conference was going to be in hostile territory and could turn deadly at any moment. The Jujari were the on species that had opposed the Republic for as long as most could remember. They were a hostile race and very good at war. For some reason, they now wanted to discuss peace terms. Awren was to be a go-between for the negotiations if they got that far. Unfortunately, the Republic was notoriously bad.
During the conference, Lt Magnus’ job was to keep Awren safe. That was going well until the entire palace blew up! Three separate explosions, one after the other, pretty much killed everyone in the meeting except for Awren and Lt. Magnus. Awren was left unconscious while Lt Magnus just came to his senses. He found the Emissary and took her out of the palace where he hoped she would be safe.
It turns out that after running from the Jujari, they ran right into the lair of bad guy name Abimbola. He had them tied up and was just wondering if they were valuable enough for some kind or ransom or if he should just kill the two. Turns out that Awren’s family had a history with Abimbola and when he found out her full name, he completely changed his attitude. It seems Abimbola owed a very great debt of gratitude towards Awren’s family. With that debt, he immediately released both captives and promised to get them to wherever they wanted to go.
That’s when everything starts going haywire, if it wasn’t already. During the conference and before he died, the Jujari mwadim gave her a star drive which contained something that it seems everyone now wants, even her peaceful organization of Luma. Once Awren reaches her home temple, she finds that not everyone is a kind as they used to be and she eventually has to flee for her life.
Meanwhile, Lt. Magnus has been assigned to find a derelect starship that has asked for help. Apparently it has a Senator aboard with his family. Rescuing the Senator should be an easy mission, but nothing is ever easy for a Marine.
This is a good story off to a good start. I think it’s going to make for a very good series. There’s just enough humor added to make reading this book enjoyable without it getting stupid. I also can’t figure out what will happen next and that’s good for a science fiction book.
August 2, 2019
Ruins Of the Galaxy J.N. Chaney
LT. Magnus is a Republic Marine. Similar to what is a marine recon. A highly specialized special forces unit. Warriors, feared and respected. He and his unit are tasked with protecting a Lumina, a special emissary named Awen. Not a type of tasks marines normally perform. Orders are orders and Magnus and his unit will protect her. Initially, they do not get along. The emissary doesn't want his services. But then everything goes to hell. Non stop action. Enjoyed immensely
LT. Magnus is a Republic Marine. Similar to what is a marine recon. A highly specialized special forces unit. Warriors, feared and respected. He and his unit are tasked with protecting a Lumina, a special emissary named Awen. Not a type of tasks marines normally perform. Orders are orders and Magnus and his unit will protect her. Initially, they do not get along. The emissary doesn't want his services. But then everything goes to hell. Non stop action. Enjoyed immensely
February 23, 2020
After a number of non-fiction books, especially those about the sad state of the internet, I went looking for science fiction series to pick up. I wanted something fun to reset my head for more reality.
The algorithms pointed me to the Ruins of the Galaxy series. It sounded interesting and the review numbers pushed my tired brain into picking up the first book.
I went with it when the Marine characters were not acting like professionals. I went with when Awen demonstrated magical abilities. I kept going as a lot of silly events then transpire (our two budding love birds are about to die & she simply mentioning her name gets them all the help they need to get to the next chapter - ugh). But it never really got anywhere interesting. I was skimming through to learn about the wormhole and how multiverses fit in, but back to silly.
The characters are flat. Awen is an elf who has all kinds of magical abilities. True blood was the term used. Touch the Unity. Think Ether spliced with The Force. Her affection for our Marine just got to be too much.
Our Marine LT is proud he has a warrior code. There is a lot of hints of past deeds where he put honor above all. Somehow these hints show our LT has a strong moral compass. But he is that typical Marine character, who is good and wholesome. Oh, no self respecting Marine would say trooper in reference to Marines.
Then there is a girl who has bad dreams that is a part of things. I find that the addition of kids to stories with Marines puts a drag on things.
Add in a shady character with a wise cracking droid that take us through the underworld in this galaxy. Also conspiracies so our intrepid characters no longer trust their institutions, but easily trust said shady characters with few nagging thoughts that maybe it isn’t the right thing to do, but still do it.
This is really a fantasy story with spaceships. It never really worked for me.
The algorithms pointed me to the Ruins of the Galaxy series. It sounded interesting and the review numbers pushed my tired brain into picking up the first book.
I went with it when the Marine characters were not acting like professionals. I went with when Awen demonstrated magical abilities. I kept going as a lot of silly events then transpire (our two budding love birds are about to die & she simply mentioning her name gets them all the help they need to get to the next chapter - ugh). But it never really got anywhere interesting. I was skimming through to learn about the wormhole and how multiverses fit in, but back to silly.
The characters are flat. Awen is an elf who has all kinds of magical abilities. True blood was the term used. Touch the Unity. Think Ether spliced with The Force. Her affection for our Marine just got to be too much.
Our Marine LT is proud he has a warrior code. There is a lot of hints of past deeds where he put honor above all. Somehow these hints show our LT has a strong moral compass. But he is that typical Marine character, who is good and wholesome. Oh, no self respecting Marine would say trooper in reference to Marines.
Then there is a girl who has bad dreams that is a part of things. I find that the addition of kids to stories with Marines puts a drag on things.
Add in a shady character with a wise cracking droid that take us through the underworld in this galaxy. Also conspiracies so our intrepid characters no longer trust their institutions, but easily trust said shady characters with few nagging thoughts that maybe it isn’t the right thing to do, but still do it.
This is really a fantasy story with spaceships. It never really worked for me.
July 31, 2019
I liked the characters and the writing but even though this listed as book one I feel like I came in the middle of the story. Some of the characters Lt Magnus have hints of backgrounds but other characters not enough backstory. There is a short story at the end that almost needs to be a prologue to the book. This also a book one so you are left hanging waiting for the next book which is promised in Aug 2019. I was hooked enough that I am looking forward to book 2.
April 30, 2023
Ruins of the Galaxy is not just another Mil Sci-fi shoot-em up. It is an intense, gritty, and at times emotionally powerful thrill ride, and one that you will not be able to put down once you have picked it up.
This was one of those books that you find yourself saying ‘Just one more chapter…’, until it is 3am in the morning and you realise you have to be up in just a few hours for work, but you don’t care, you keep reading.
The story starts out introducing us to one of the main characters, Magnus, a Republic Recon Marine. He and his unit are on a mission to guard an Emissary of the Republic in talks with a brutal enemy that the Republic has been trying to bring to the table for peace talks for years, a Canine Warrior species called the Jujari. These are like 6-7ft tall bipedal like dogs, that are incredibly strong, and live under a violent, and vicious regime.
The Emissary, Awen, is the other main character, a humanoid from an order known as the ‘Luma’, she is stunningly beautiful, and is not only an incredibly accomplished diplomat, but having studied as a Luma, she can perform some amazing feats with her mind.
Both Magnus and Awen are incredibly well written, with so much depth and personality, to each of them, as you move through the story, you feel like you know them. Whilst it comes as no surprise that Awen is an intellectual and intelligent character, with some very interesting motives towards the mission as well as those around her, the real surprise is Magnus. He is far from the standard Marine, as most assume (including Awen at the start), with a very keen intellect, and a strong tactical and strategic mind.
This is where the real strength of the story comes from, the research, and depth of the character writing that both the Authors have put into every one of their characters. It is not just the major characters either, each of the minor characters is incredibly well written, each providing an amazing aspect to the story.
Without giving too much away about the story (No Spoilers Here), Magnus and Awen are at this summit to try and bring peace to the Republic and the Jujari. However as with all of these types of stories (otherwise, why would we read them??), things never go to plan, but this time around, the situation is far worse than normal, as the talks are decimated by explosions that leave everyone either dead or near it. Magnus is one of the only ones left standing, and, through things that are explained, so is Awen. But they are now deep in hostile territory, on a hostile Planet, with the leader of the enemy dead in front of them, being one of very few survivors of a deadly explosion.
With enemies on all sides, injured, and not sure where to go, all they can do is run, and try and work out what to do.
The amazing this about this book, is that this is just the opening phase of the story.
Yeh, you read that right, this is the START of the book.
The opening sequence makes a lot of other things you read or watch look like child’s play.
And it only gets better from there.
This is a full on, intense, nail-biting story, with gritty, believable and realistic characters (and no, there are not aliens to judge by, but you can judge how people react to things, and the reactions in this book by the main characters are just brilliant).
Again, without giving too much away, there are some other exceptional characters in this story. I am not going into detail as I don’t want to give spoilers. But certain characters are just outstanding if you have any liking of Star Wars. Although there are parts of this story that are super intense and emotionally powerful, there are some parts that you will be laughing yourself stupid they are so funny.
As with all JN Chaney books, there seems to be a certain proclivity to Easter Eggs of well-known Sci-Fi movies, which always makes these types of books enjoyable, and fun to read.
I have read a lot of books being that I was born a LONG TIME ago, in a, well not a Galaxy, but for those in the US, it is certainly a Country Far Far Away, and, given that I LOVE my Sci-Fi, most of them are from that genre. I am happy to say that this is one of the best Mil Sci-Fi books I have read this year, and anyone who loves Mil Sci-Fi, or just Sci-Fi in general, MUST read this, it is just BRILLIANT, and you can’t miss it. I am already reading the sequel “Ruins of the Galaxy – Gateway to War”, and Part 3 has just been released.
This was one of those books that you find yourself saying ‘Just one more chapter…’, until it is 3am in the morning and you realise you have to be up in just a few hours for work, but you don’t care, you keep reading.
The story starts out introducing us to one of the main characters, Magnus, a Republic Recon Marine. He and his unit are on a mission to guard an Emissary of the Republic in talks with a brutal enemy that the Republic has been trying to bring to the table for peace talks for years, a Canine Warrior species called the Jujari. These are like 6-7ft tall bipedal like dogs, that are incredibly strong, and live under a violent, and vicious regime.
The Emissary, Awen, is the other main character, a humanoid from an order known as the ‘Luma’, she is stunningly beautiful, and is not only an incredibly accomplished diplomat, but having studied as a Luma, she can perform some amazing feats with her mind.
Both Magnus and Awen are incredibly well written, with so much depth and personality, to each of them, as you move through the story, you feel like you know them. Whilst it comes as no surprise that Awen is an intellectual and intelligent character, with some very interesting motives towards the mission as well as those around her, the real surprise is Magnus. He is far from the standard Marine, as most assume (including Awen at the start), with a very keen intellect, and a strong tactical and strategic mind.
This is where the real strength of the story comes from, the research, and depth of the character writing that both the Authors have put into every one of their characters. It is not just the major characters either, each of the minor characters is incredibly well written, each providing an amazing aspect to the story.
Without giving too much away about the story (No Spoilers Here), Magnus and Awen are at this summit to try and bring peace to the Republic and the Jujari. However as with all of these types of stories (otherwise, why would we read them??), things never go to plan, but this time around, the situation is far worse than normal, as the talks are decimated by explosions that leave everyone either dead or near it. Magnus is one of the only ones left standing, and, through things that are explained, so is Awen. But they are now deep in hostile territory, on a hostile Planet, with the leader of the enemy dead in front of them, being one of very few survivors of a deadly explosion.
With enemies on all sides, injured, and not sure where to go, all they can do is run, and try and work out what to do.
The amazing this about this book, is that this is just the opening phase of the story.
Yeh, you read that right, this is the START of the book.
The opening sequence makes a lot of other things you read or watch look like child’s play.
And it only gets better from there.
This is a full on, intense, nail-biting story, with gritty, believable and realistic characters (and no, there are not aliens to judge by, but you can judge how people react to things, and the reactions in this book by the main characters are just brilliant).
Again, without giving too much away, there are some other exceptional characters in this story. I am not going into detail as I don’t want to give spoilers. But certain characters are just outstanding if you have any liking of Star Wars. Although there are parts of this story that are super intense and emotionally powerful, there are some parts that you will be laughing yourself stupid they are so funny.
As with all JN Chaney books, there seems to be a certain proclivity to Easter Eggs of well-known Sci-Fi movies, which always makes these types of books enjoyable, and fun to read.
I have read a lot of books being that I was born a LONG TIME ago, in a, well not a Galaxy, but for those in the US, it is certainly a Country Far Far Away, and, given that I LOVE my Sci-Fi, most of them are from that genre. I am happy to say that this is one of the best Mil Sci-Fi books I have read this year, and anyone who loves Mil Sci-Fi, or just Sci-Fi in general, MUST read this, it is just BRILLIANT, and you can’t miss it. I am already reading the sequel “Ruins of the Galaxy – Gateway to War”, and Part 3 has just been released.
August 3, 2019
He’s done it again!
J.N. Chaney has done it again! This time in collaboration with Christopher Hopper! They’ve started a new series! Congratulations Christopher because Lt. Adonis Magnus is a great hero. But...... once more we are waiting! Thank goodness it’s only for weeks and not months (or years with some authors!). From this rant you can probably work out that this book is well worth reading. The characters are well rounded and different. There is, of course, Lt Adonis Magnus and his men; the ‘Four’ are in the opening scenario only and otherwise appear in Magnus’ memories, but they are each established with their own quirks and make a strong impression. Then there is the Luma, Awen. She is a beautiful young woman who has devoted herself to the study of the control of her mind through the Unity of All Things. Awen Lau Lothlinium ( at this point I must say that Arwen of Lothlorien immediately came to mind! LOL!) is an emissary to peace talks with the Jujari, an alien warrior race that has refused any alliance with the Republic up until now. She has studied them for six years and is the only member of the delegation who can speak their language and understands their beliefs.
After the talks are ended in a spectacular fashion, Magnus and Awen find themselves en route to Awen’s home world for her to report and get advise. Once there they separate and things go very differently to what either of them expected! There are some very engaging characters in this story and one very strange young girl called Piper and an even more strange Admiral! It will be interesting to see Piper’s character develope.
Any lover of military sci-fi will like this although there are no large space battles. I can see Magnus and Awen becoming favourites.
Highly recommended.
J.N. Chaney has done it again! This time in collaboration with Christopher Hopper! They’ve started a new series! Congratulations Christopher because Lt. Adonis Magnus is a great hero. But...... once more we are waiting! Thank goodness it’s only for weeks and not months (or years with some authors!). From this rant you can probably work out that this book is well worth reading. The characters are well rounded and different. There is, of course, Lt Adonis Magnus and his men; the ‘Four’ are in the opening scenario only and otherwise appear in Magnus’ memories, but they are each established with their own quirks and make a strong impression. Then there is the Luma, Awen. She is a beautiful young woman who has devoted herself to the study of the control of her mind through the Unity of All Things. Awen Lau Lothlinium ( at this point I must say that Arwen of Lothlorien immediately came to mind! LOL!) is an emissary to peace talks with the Jujari, an alien warrior race that has refused any alliance with the Republic up until now. She has studied them for six years and is the only member of the delegation who can speak their language and understands their beliefs.
After the talks are ended in a spectacular fashion, Magnus and Awen find themselves en route to Awen’s home world for her to report and get advise. Once there they separate and things go very differently to what either of them expected! There are some very engaging characters in this story and one very strange young girl called Piper and an even more strange Admiral! It will be interesting to see Piper’s character develope.
Any lover of military sci-fi will like this although there are no large space battles. I can see Magnus and Awen becoming favourites.
Highly recommended.
August 6, 2020
Listened to the audiobook. R.C Bray does an amazing job as always.
The story starts out intriguing enough, albeit a little standard, but it gives the book a nice familiar feeling and an easy opening. As it progresses it oozes with the sense that it was inspired by all the great current military sci-fi reads. And thats exactly what it is. It tries to stake its own identity of being an original setting but it draws a little too much from the inspiration material. It gets really trope-y. It isn't plagiarism or copying, the characters are unique an memorable enough in their own right, but it treads a verrrrrrrry fine line.
Overall, the story is decent and makes me want to read the second, but I am a little weary that it might fall on the wrong side of the line between "inspired by" and "ripped off".
Overall 4/5
Its written just how I like it, but a little too much like other books in terms of setting.
The story starts out intriguing enough, albeit a little standard, but it gives the book a nice familiar feeling and an easy opening. As it progresses it oozes with the sense that it was inspired by all the great current military sci-fi reads. And thats exactly what it is. It tries to stake its own identity of being an original setting but it draws a little too much from the inspiration material. It gets really trope-y. It isn't plagiarism or copying, the characters are unique an memorable enough in their own right, but it treads a verrrrrrrry fine line.
Overall, the story is decent and makes me want to read the second, but I am a little weary that it might fall on the wrong side of the line between "inspired by" and "ripped off".
Overall 4/5
Its written just how I like it, but a little too much like other books in terms of setting.
October 13, 2020
This story was chock full of everything - marines trying to protect ambassadors who could escape to a higher plane, a warrior race of hyenas, a Han Solo sort, a C3PO type and a little girl with special powers. It was kind of all over the place, but generally entertaining enough to keep me engaged. The somewhat cliffhanger ending has me continuing to the second book. It's not riveting, but it's decent entertainment.
And the reason I listened to this was RC Bray, who was amazing as usual.
And the reason I listened to this was RC Bray, who was amazing as usual.
November 17, 2021
La mia esperienza con Chaney e Hopper è stata di puro divertimento senza pensieri.
I personaggi e la storia sono semplici, facili da seguire e sono definiti/progettati per fare in modo che l'immedesimazione sia praticamente immediata.
Il romanzo manca di originalità, ma è coinvolgere e una volta iniziato non lo si molla più.
Il narratore dell'audiolibro è fenomenale.
I personaggi e la storia sono semplici, facili da seguire e sono definiti/progettati per fare in modo che l'immedesimazione sia praticamente immediata.
Il romanzo manca di originalità, ma è coinvolgere e una volta iniziato non lo si molla più.
Il narratore dell'audiolibro è fenomenale.
April 16, 2020
I really enjoyed my time with this, it was a fun ride and an easy read. There are some things I really would of appreciated though and I thought were lacking, however, so I'm going to start with those as I usually do.
I felt like the world-building in this was neglected, now, this isn't entirely a bad thing as the book does get straight into the meat of things like action and story-telling without bogging you down in exposition about the world, that's always a plus, however, I had absolutely no bearings on where, when, who or what anything was.
What year is it? Why no mentions of Earth? How far into Space Has humanity colonized? Etc etc, not so much as even a galaxy map or anything! All I'm left with is assumptions and these aren't the good kind of assumptions that build mystery, they just feel gaping.
Avoiding exposition is hard, but besides utilizing a map (which admittedly, a 2D map of 3D space is well, that has problems of its own) but they could have given us a calendar and location at the start of each chapter, I've seen other Sci-Fi novels do this and it always helps me get my bearings.
Also, I tried looking for a Wikipedia on this universe, I could not find one, if one does exist please point me too it. A Wikipedia is a good way of fleshing something like this out whilst avoiding exposition, it leaves the information as a choice for those who want to seek it out and a universe as big as this feels should have one of those in my opinion.
Oh and one other thing, the cover art has the protag wearing green armor but in the book it's said to be black, so that was one inconsistency.
Anyway, I digress, so the downsides to this were really only a lack of information, the characters, action, flow, etc all were all very good, the protagonist is a likeable guy, the leading woman or second protagonist also. Their chemistry was good too, and I laughed out loud at a couple of the scenes with the robot, I love that little guy, my favorite character is a machine haha.
Overall this was just a very good Military Science Fiction read, there's not much else to say about it without sounding like nitpicky asshole which I probably have done already, I also couldn't help but notice that it didn't really take any risks. This next point ISN'T a downside as some might like it, but swearing in this universe has been replaced with the word "splick" in all manner of mannerism, "splicking this" or "splick that" or "this splicking splicks"
It was kind of funny in a childish/cringy sort of way but this is just me personally, it's my opinion that if you're going to put characters in situations where they would swear, just have them swear. I understand some people don't like that but it just seemed very childish in what was otherwise a very adult story, with lots of blood, gore, violence and other adult themes juxtapositioned with what amounts to infantile censorship was kind of jarring. I reiterate though, I know I'm making it sound like a harsh criticism but this is for *me personally*, if you're reading this and hate curse words in your reading than you're in for a treat, which leads me to my next point.
It's a very safe story in a very safe world as far as offending people would go, whether it be political correctness, religion, culture, ethnicity, morality, ethics, cursing, it challenges nobody in anyway, it didn't seem to have any deeper themes or philosophy either which again is fine if your focus is on just telling a good story, and it's highly marketable which explains its success, not that it isn't a good read, it is, you can be highly marketable all you want but if your story is shit or not well written you aren't getting splick. Great. Now I'm saying it. Again, based on who you are personally this could be a very big plus. You might not want real life problems invading your fictional escape from well, reality.
That's basically it, in short if you want to read this you're in for a very enjoyable action-packed thrill ride that won't challenge any belief systems that you may hold about anything. 8/10 for good execution and making me chuckle quite a bit.
I felt like the world-building in this was neglected, now, this isn't entirely a bad thing as the book does get straight into the meat of things like action and story-telling without bogging you down in exposition about the world, that's always a plus, however, I had absolutely no bearings on where, when, who or what anything was.
What year is it? Why no mentions of Earth? How far into Space Has humanity colonized? Etc etc, not so much as even a galaxy map or anything! All I'm left with is assumptions and these aren't the good kind of assumptions that build mystery, they just feel gaping.
Avoiding exposition is hard, but besides utilizing a map (which admittedly, a 2D map of 3D space is well, that has problems of its own) but they could have given us a calendar and location at the start of each chapter, I've seen other Sci-Fi novels do this and it always helps me get my bearings.
Also, I tried looking for a Wikipedia on this universe, I could not find one, if one does exist please point me too it. A Wikipedia is a good way of fleshing something like this out whilst avoiding exposition, it leaves the information as a choice for those who want to seek it out and a universe as big as this feels should have one of those in my opinion.
Oh and one other thing, the cover art has the protag wearing green armor but in the book it's said to be black, so that was one inconsistency.
Anyway, I digress, so the downsides to this were really only a lack of information, the characters, action, flow, etc all were all very good, the protagonist is a likeable guy, the leading woman or second protagonist also. Their chemistry was good too, and I laughed out loud at a couple of the scenes with the robot, I love that little guy, my favorite character is a machine haha.
Overall this was just a very good Military Science Fiction read, there's not much else to say about it without sounding like nitpicky asshole which I probably have done already, I also couldn't help but notice that it didn't really take any risks. This next point ISN'T a downside as some might like it, but swearing in this universe has been replaced with the word "splick" in all manner of mannerism, "splicking this" or "splick that" or "this splicking splicks"
It was kind of funny in a childish/cringy sort of way but this is just me personally, it's my opinion that if you're going to put characters in situations where they would swear, just have them swear. I understand some people don't like that but it just seemed very childish in what was otherwise a very adult story, with lots of blood, gore, violence and other adult themes juxtapositioned with what amounts to infantile censorship was kind of jarring. I reiterate though, I know I'm making it sound like a harsh criticism but this is for *me personally*, if you're reading this and hate curse words in your reading than you're in for a treat, which leads me to my next point.
It's a very safe story in a very safe world as far as offending people would go, whether it be political correctness, religion, culture, ethnicity, morality, ethics, cursing, it challenges nobody in anyway, it didn't seem to have any deeper themes or philosophy either which again is fine if your focus is on just telling a good story, and it's highly marketable which explains its success, not that it isn't a good read, it is, you can be highly marketable all you want but if your story is shit or not well written you aren't getting splick. Great. Now I'm saying it. Again, based on who you are personally this could be a very big plus. You might not want real life problems invading your fictional escape from well, reality.
That's basically it, in short if you want to read this you're in for a very enjoyable action-packed thrill ride that won't challenge any belief systems that you may hold about anything. 8/10 for good execution and making me chuckle quite a bit.
February 8, 2020
Great new Series
Well just started this series and got the first book done now into the rest... Struggled a little bit at first and got stuck into now I am hooked and need to carry on lol
Well just started this series and got the first book done now into the rest... Struggled a little bit at first and got stuck into now I am hooked and need to carry on lol
October 23, 2019
A great starting point. Hopper's ability to switch between character perspectives just as you're getting right into it is something that is both fantastic and infuriating (in a good way). It constantly leaves you on the edge, causing you to force yourself to not put it down so you can find out what happens to that character, only to become invested in the next as the cycle loops around and around. You learn more about, and become heavily invested in each character's position in the grand scheme. You are given an insight to their motives and what makes them tick in a way that can't be replicated by following one character through a story with a cast of side characters. I have many questions and I'm excited to see what happens next for Magnus, Arwen, Bimby, TO-96 and the rest of the gang. Bring on the sequel!
September 21, 2019
A JNC./CH. Collaboration of a SYFY. Deep Space Action Adventure (ROTG) (AMSE)
JNC . And CH. have collaborated to write A SYFY. Deep Space Action Adventure which begins with a Marine detachment being assigned escort duty of an emissary to an intergalactic meeting. The trip out was simple, just long and boring. The emissary was delivered to his meeting with the Marine detachment standing. A bomb exploded in the building where the meeting takes place. The Marines rescue their emissary, but at the same time another emissary passes information that causes them to be targets. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
JNC . And CH. have collaborated to write A SYFY. Deep Space Action Adventure which begins with a Marine detachment being assigned escort duty of an emissary to an intergalactic meeting. The trip out was simple, just long and boring. The emissary was delivered to his meeting with the Marine detachment standing. A bomb exploded in the building where the meeting takes place. The Marines rescue their emissary, but at the same time another emissary passes information that causes them to be targets. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
November 6, 2019
First pages a slow start, began to wonder -- THEN . . . .
It all began to take off -> got better & bester almost page by chapter. I'm a convert! And from here I'm planning to dive right into the rest of the series. Quite innovative • interesting races/cultures • OK characters • would have awarded the cherished 5 stars except for initial pages which almost caused me to ditch the volume ~> which would have been a real loss • SCI-FI - The Future Now!
It all began to take off -> got better & bester almost page by chapter. I'm a convert! And from here I'm planning to dive right into the rest of the series. Quite innovative • interesting races/cultures • OK characters • would have awarded the cherished 5 stars except for initial pages which almost caused me to ditch the volume ~> which would have been a real loss • SCI-FI - The Future Now!
August 7, 2019
An epic adventure
I enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait for the next one. Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
Amazingly immersive writing that will take you on a journey to far off worlds.
I will look for more from these authors.
I enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait for the next one. Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
Amazingly immersive writing that will take you on a journey to far off worlds.
I will look for more from these authors.
August 22, 2019
Good read
Another winner with great storyline and characters. Love the way The author intertwines plots and subplots. Even the added short story is great and gives you insight on some of the main characters!
Another winner with great storyline and characters. Love the way The author intertwines plots and subplots. Even the added short story is great and gives you insight on some of the main characters!
September 11, 2019
Lots of fun, well worth reading...
Highly entertaining and well worth reading. Lots of dos daring-ed and buckles swashed in this romp through space. An excellent storyline with great characters. I’m looking forward to reading more.
Highly entertaining and well worth reading. Lots of dos daring-ed and buckles swashed in this romp through space. An excellent storyline with great characters. I’m looking forward to reading more.
November 7, 2019
7/10: Good solid read, something to get your teeth into.
"Own the mission, own the field.”
Enjoyed this one and will definitely be reading on in the series. Funny, gritty, engaging, and full of wonderful sci-fi.
Not to mention "naked monkey butts"!
"Own the mission, own the field.”
Enjoyed this one and will definitely be reading on in the series. Funny, gritty, engaging, and full of wonderful sci-fi.
Not to mention "naked monkey butts"!
November 21, 2019
There were three narratives running through this book and I had trouble keeping everything straight. However, the story lines were good and so is the writing. I'll try the next book in the series and see if I can follow it better.
December 28, 2019
Great start to a series
Several laugh-out-loud moments, good action, enough characters to make things interesting, and a universe still waiting for its backstory. Good stuff so far.
Several laugh-out-loud moments, good action, enough characters to make things interesting, and a universe still waiting for its backstory. Good stuff so far.
January 21, 2020
Good start
This is a good in depth story with solid characters. Story line is outstanding. It stirred my imagination. I do like the authors presentation of the different worlds. His description of the non humanoid characters was spot on. Thanks for a good story
This is a good in depth story with solid characters. Story line is outstanding. It stirred my imagination. I do like the authors presentation of the different worlds. His description of the non humanoid characters was spot on. Thanks for a good story
August 4, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I am so looking forward to the next one.
September 9, 2019
Utter nonsense
This is truly terrible, highly derivative, and rather obnoxious.
What on earth were they thinking?
The plot is pathetic. Dross.
This is truly terrible, highly derivative, and rather obnoxious.
What on earth were they thinking?
The plot is pathetic. Dross.
October 5, 2019
Good story
Characters well developed and interesting. Some hard science and a little mysticism. Blah blah blah blah. I hate being forced to add words to submit.
Characters well developed and interesting. Some hard science and a little mysticism. Blah blah blah blah. I hate being forced to add words to submit.
October 30, 2019
THE RUINS WILL PULL YOU IN!
Excellent tale, well told. Hooked me early and I eagerly await the next book.
How will not regret this read.
Excellent tale, well told. Hooked me early and I eagerly await the next book.
How will not regret this read.
November 23, 2020
My Book Review Number 200!
This is my 200th Sci-Fi book review! It is on Ruins Of The Galaxy (Book 1 of 9 in the Series) by Christopher Hopper and J.N. Chaney. This is the second book I have read by these two authors. It is an exciting Military Science Fiction story with memorable characters, exciting military action scenes and interesting story about a special mission that goes sideways from the very start.
Lieutenant Adonis Olin Magnus and his special Recon Team are selected to provide security for a special mission based on their experience and reputation. Magnus and his 15 member Alpha Platoon wait for the Republic ambassador and his envoy to arrive on a landing platform in Oosafar, capital city of the dog-like Jujari. It is a peaceful mission to stop the fighting and get the Jujari to join the Republic. It doesn’t go peacefully!
Magus is tasked to watch over a Luma Emissary named Awen dau Lothlinium who will help convince the Jujari to stop fighting the Republic. Awen has trained most of her life for this moment utilizing the energy found in the “Unity of all things” and possesses special skills that will be needed for these negotiations. Still, it will not totally protect her or the others around her when things get out of hand. The Jujari have a secret they pass on to Awen who must now give it to her Masters on Luma.
The story expands beyond the world of the Jujari when Magnus must protect and save Awen from others who want the knowledge she now possesses. New characters are introduced into the story that help Awen when she and Magnus are separated. Awen learns the secret the Jujari give her and what it all means. It will lead her and others to unexpected places.
Magnus is assigned a new mission and tries to learn the fate of his former platoon members. Along the way he must protect another important member of the Republic and his family from a new enemy. It turns out that one member of this family is just as important to the story as Awen.
I give this book Four Stars because the story is interesting and action packed. The story builds new worlds that expand the universe. The main characters are memorable and possess real emotional feelings. The plot is somewhat disjointed, but comes together in the end. The dialogue and writing style are excellent. The science is somewhat imaginative in places. I look forward to reading the next book in this series from these two authors in the future to see if how the story and characters evolve over nine books.
Keep reading good science fiction and let me know when you find an interesting novel or author.
This is my 200th Sci-Fi book review! It is on Ruins Of The Galaxy (Book 1 of 9 in the Series) by Christopher Hopper and J.N. Chaney. This is the second book I have read by these two authors. It is an exciting Military Science Fiction story with memorable characters, exciting military action scenes and interesting story about a special mission that goes sideways from the very start.
Lieutenant Adonis Olin Magnus and his special Recon Team are selected to provide security for a special mission based on their experience and reputation. Magnus and his 15 member Alpha Platoon wait for the Republic ambassador and his envoy to arrive on a landing platform in Oosafar, capital city of the dog-like Jujari. It is a peaceful mission to stop the fighting and get the Jujari to join the Republic. It doesn’t go peacefully!
Magus is tasked to watch over a Luma Emissary named Awen dau Lothlinium who will help convince the Jujari to stop fighting the Republic. Awen has trained most of her life for this moment utilizing the energy found in the “Unity of all things” and possesses special skills that will be needed for these negotiations. Still, it will not totally protect her or the others around her when things get out of hand. The Jujari have a secret they pass on to Awen who must now give it to her Masters on Luma.
The story expands beyond the world of the Jujari when Magnus must protect and save Awen from others who want the knowledge she now possesses. New characters are introduced into the story that help Awen when she and Magnus are separated. Awen learns the secret the Jujari give her and what it all means. It will lead her and others to unexpected places.
Magnus is assigned a new mission and tries to learn the fate of his former platoon members. Along the way he must protect another important member of the Republic and his family from a new enemy. It turns out that one member of this family is just as important to the story as Awen.
I give this book Four Stars because the story is interesting and action packed. The story builds new worlds that expand the universe. The main characters are memorable and possess real emotional feelings. The plot is somewhat disjointed, but comes together in the end. The dialogue and writing style are excellent. The science is somewhat imaginative in places. I look forward to reading the next book in this series from these two authors in the future to see if how the story and characters evolve over nine books.
Keep reading good science fiction and let me know when you find an interesting novel or author.
May 8, 2020
Reeks of passivity
DNF @ 20%
I've been through the wringer enough to be able to identify a passive lead when I read it. "Lt. Magnus" is a meat-head who follows orders and is loyal to his charges. A character with little complexity which serves as "perfect" vehicle to spoon feed the plot.
Let Me Explain: Agency
This is my 3rd attempt at explaining what separates a passive and active lead. Suffice to say I'm finding it rather difficult to narrow it down to one bit-sized package but here goes anyhow.
There are two things that separate a memorable active protagonist and a passive one.
1. They have personality
Don't take this lightly, the everyman is a trope for a reason and it's an absolute plague in the fantasy/sci-fi genre. Characters need to have something that differentiates them from everybody else in the story.
They don't need to be complex characters shrouded in mystery. One-dimensional characters are fine as long as that single trait pervades their entire characterisation: e.g. A soldier so loyal they won't abandon their clan regardless of how twisted it has become; a politician that only knows how to solve problems with violence; a tax-collector so earnest they will never tell a lie; a king so 'kind' that he refuses to properly dispense justice. This kind of character is in some ways reminiscent of the Greek gods.
Regardless of how it's done, the character in question needs to have enough personality so that they can do point number 2.
2. They influence the plot and not vice-versa
A character's motivations and personality should change the plot. The plot should never make choices for the character. This includes false choices where there is only one real outcome: e.g. a captain must choose between: risking the lives of his troops or letting the evil empire enslave everyone; a superhero must choose between saving civilians or chasing the villain; for a soldier to protect their charge or return to base as a failure.
If a character doesn't influence the plot or is only ever making false choices, then the author may as well just use dot points dispassionately retell events.
DNF @ 20%
I've been through the wringer enough to be able to identify a passive lead when I read it. "Lt. Magnus" is a meat-head who follows orders and is loyal to his charges. A character with little complexity which serves as "perfect" vehicle to spoon feed the plot.
Let Me Explain: Agency
This is my 3rd attempt at explaining what separates a passive and active lead. Suffice to say I'm finding it rather difficult to narrow it down to one bit-sized package but here goes anyhow.
There are two things that separate a memorable active protagonist and a passive one.
1. They have personality
Don't take this lightly, the everyman is a trope for a reason and it's an absolute plague in the fantasy/sci-fi genre. Characters need to have something that differentiates them from everybody else in the story.
They don't need to be complex characters shrouded in mystery. One-dimensional characters are fine as long as that single trait pervades their entire characterisation: e.g. A soldier so loyal they won't abandon their clan regardless of how twisted it has become; a politician that only knows how to solve problems with violence; a tax-collector so earnest they will never tell a lie; a king so 'kind' that he refuses to properly dispense justice. This kind of character is in some ways reminiscent of the Greek gods.
Regardless of how it's done, the character in question needs to have enough personality so that they can do point number 2.
2. They influence the plot and not vice-versa
A character's motivations and personality should change the plot. The plot should never make choices for the character. This includes false choices where there is only one real outcome: e.g. a captain must choose between: risking the lives of his troops or letting the evil empire enslave everyone; a superhero must choose between saving civilians or chasing the villain; for a soldier to protect their charge or return to base as a failure.
If a character doesn't influence the plot or is only ever making false choices, then the author may as well just use dot points dispassionately retell events.
June 27, 2023
Ho letto questo romanzo perché presentato da Goodreads con un voto di gradimento dei lettori decisamente alto, e con una trama accattivante,
Dopo averlo letto devo fare alcune considerazioni.
La prima è che il romanzo si legge molto bene, nonostante l'abbondanza di termini tecnici militari e di armi (ancora) inesistenti.
La trama tiene fede alla presentazione (e anticipo che rimane solida per almeno i primi tre romanzi della serie, che ho già letto).
E allora perché un giudizio non tanto positivo? (che dovrebbe però essere un 3.5)
Perché sembra di leggere una space opera di 80 anni fa, con astronavi che hanno finestre sullo spazio attraverso cui vedi tutto, con forme aereodinamiche perché atterrano e ripartono dai pianeti (anche se ogni tanto appaiono degli shuttle e qualche astronave è "troppo grande" per poter atterrare). Cioè il concetto c'era, ma non se ne è tenuto in completa considerazione. Anche sulle armi siamo in piena fantascienza, con spesso qualche semplificazione eccessiva.
È evidente che gli autori non hanno sposato la filosofia di The Expanse sulla fedeltà scientifica dell'ambientazione, ed è un peccato.
Però si legge, con un ritmo continuamente accelerato, ma anche con momenti di riflessione, con considerazioni affatto banali. Buoni personaggi, anche se ovviamente un qualcuno po' troppo "militar style" e un certo eccesso di "commilitorismo" (che è sicuramente normale in un romanzo militare ed è anche un pregio di The Black Company di Glen Cook, ma lì eravamo in piena Fantasy)
E quindi ho continuato a leggere la serie...
Seconda considerazione: i lettori di fantascienza militare devono avere gusti decisamente polarizzati, perché con tutti i meriti che gli ho attribuito, e anche con qualcuno di più, questo romanzo non dovrebbe avere un giudizio così alto...
Ma chi sono io per dirlo... :)
Dopo averlo letto devo fare alcune considerazioni.
La prima è che il romanzo si legge molto bene, nonostante l'abbondanza di termini tecnici militari e di armi (ancora) inesistenti.
La trama tiene fede alla presentazione (e anticipo che rimane solida per almeno i primi tre romanzi della serie, che ho già letto).
E allora perché un giudizio non tanto positivo? (che dovrebbe però essere un 3.5)
Perché sembra di leggere una space opera di 80 anni fa, con astronavi che hanno finestre sullo spazio attraverso cui vedi tutto, con forme aereodinamiche perché atterrano e ripartono dai pianeti (anche se ogni tanto appaiono degli shuttle e qualche astronave è "troppo grande" per poter atterrare). Cioè il concetto c'era, ma non se ne è tenuto in completa considerazione. Anche sulle armi siamo in piena fantascienza, con spesso qualche semplificazione eccessiva.
È evidente che gli autori non hanno sposato la filosofia di The Expanse sulla fedeltà scientifica dell'ambientazione, ed è un peccato.
Però si legge, con un ritmo continuamente accelerato, ma anche con momenti di riflessione, con considerazioni affatto banali. Buoni personaggi, anche se ovviamente un qualcuno po' troppo "militar style" e un certo eccesso di "commilitorismo" (che è sicuramente normale in un romanzo militare ed è anche un pregio di The Black Company di Glen Cook, ma lì eravamo in piena Fantasy)
E quindi ho continuato a leggere la serie...
Seconda considerazione: i lettori di fantascienza militare devono avere gusti decisamente polarizzati, perché con tutti i meriti che gli ho attribuito, e anche con qualcuno di più, questo romanzo non dovrebbe avere un giudizio così alto...
Ma chi sono io per dirlo... :)
October 16, 2021
The book is well articulated, vivid, fast paced, with excellent action scenes. In fact, it's non-stop action. However, despite the interesting premise and well-devised plot, the characters are two-dimensional tropes. What were their motivations again? Awen is driven to...umm...save the galaxy? Magnus is driven by his code of honor? Young Han Solo... i mean Ezo the bounty hunter wants to...umm... get something expensive? The antagonists are basically 1-dimensional. "Jedi" Master So-Elku wants umm... the girl? Didn't he already have her total loyalty? The admiral wanted...na, he's just evil. He wants to do evil things because he has something evil living inside of him.
Furthermore, every chapter and the book itself leaves you on a cliffhanger. This contrived way of making the reader "wanting for more" is a little like adding a little too much sugar, salt and MSG to a tomato sauce. You take something inately healthy and you turn it into something distasteful and manipulative.
Although it read with the pace of an adult adventure, it had the depth of YA.
Furthermore, every chapter and the book itself leaves you on a cliffhanger. This contrived way of making the reader "wanting for more" is a little like adding a little too much sugar, salt and MSG to a tomato sauce. You take something inately healthy and you turn it into something distasteful and manipulative.
Although it read with the pace of an adult adventure, it had the depth of YA.
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