military Archives - Joelbooks https://joelbooks.com/tag/military/ Selected quality books read by Joelbooks book club Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:20:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.4 https://i0.wp.com/joelbooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/wp-1626157867628.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 military Archives - Joelbooks https://joelbooks.com/tag/military/ 32 32 154781010 Imprint of Blood by Phil Huddleston https://joelbooks.com/imprint-of-blood-by-phil-huddleston/ Wed, 27 Dec 2023 13:01:23 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=31477

Birth of the Rim series Book 1 A distant Star...

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Birth of the Rim series Book 1

A distant Star Empire ruled by ancient Amazon warriors, forgotten by Earth for 3,000 years. In the other direction, an implacable alien enemy, poised to destroy every human on Earth. A final warning from an AI starship, who just happens to like humans. All dumped into the laps of Jake, Teresa, and Kirsten – three unlikely lovers. Now they must build a space navy from scratch – forge an alliance with an ancient matriarchy who doesn't even know Earth exists – and prepare to fight a cruel and unmerciful enemy!

One path. One hope. One trio of Humans. It's all on them!

All four books in the Birth of the Rim series are available for purchase on Barnes & Noble.

B&N Google Play Author's B&N Page

Excerpt from Imprint of Blood © Copyright 2023 Phil Huddleston

Teresa watched the system pop into view as the Chengdu surfaced, a good 30 AU from the star.

The scoutship Acrux had been here for two months, collecting ELINT. Now they came together at this predetermined rendezvous, and the scientists of the Acrux shuttled over to meet with Atsuko’s spooks.

Settling into her chair at the head of the table in the Chengdu’s conference room, Teresa looked at the assembled teams. “What do we have, folks?” she asked.

Dr. Kenneth Speer spoke up.

“The Empire is derived from descendants of about 212 people abducted from the Western shores of what is now Turkey in about 1184 B. C.,” he said. “These were people of Greek extraction, and they called themselves Aeolians. Hence the name of the current Empire.”

“Yes, we have all that, Dr. Speer,” said Teresa a bit impatiently.

Dr. Speer nodded. “I’m just trying to make sure we’re all on the same page. Mixed in among those abductees were a dozen Amazons, female warriors caught up in the abduction. When this small band of people were abandoned on their new planet, the Amazons quickly took over. They were better fighters and more ruthless than the native Aeolians, and within a few months they had established a ruling matriarchy which persists to this day – 3,300 years later. The ruling dynasty is called the House Aronte, and the current Empress is Miranda…”

Teresa interrupted, annoyed. “All of which we know, Dr. Speer. Please get on with it.”

“OK,” responded Dr. Speer. “This matriarchy practices slavery. The majority of males are enslaved, and many of the lower-class females. The only males not enslaved are the nobility, the upper levels of the merchant class, males in the military, and mercenaries – former military.

“The Empire has a first-rate space navy, currently estimated at more than 100 warships with interstellar capabilities. And let me assure you, these are not starships you want to mess with. They are heavily armed, quite deadly. They carry a mix of missiles, railguns, and short-range beamers. Their crews are highly trained, professional. If you see one of these coming at you, please take my advice and run like hell. Now, they have right now…”

Speer glanced at his tablet.

“…forty-one populated planets in the Empire.”

Teresa nodded. “So, tell me how we insert spies into this Empire.”

Atsuko objected. “We don’t call them spies, Teresa. We call them operatives.”

“Very good,” said Teresa. “So, tell me how we insert spies into the Empire, Dr. Speer.”

Dr. Speer smiled broadly, barely able to contain his laughter. “Well, first, you need to have a preponderance of females. They need to carry themselves with a certain air of haughtiness, to pass as upper caste. In fact, the more arrogant they are, the better the chance they can pass.”

Atsuko grinned. “I think we can meet that requirement. We have some pretty arrogant assholes on our team!”

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Citizens and Soldiers by Joshua Smith https://joelbooks.com/citizens-and-soldiers-by-joshua-smith/ Thu, 07 Dec 2023 14:06:24 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=31161

In a futuristic utopian society where all militarism has been...

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In a futuristic utopian society where all militarism has been made illegal and punishable by death, non-citizen soldiers are recreated from wars of the distant past to serve again as elite warriors in the most lethal military ever known, to live and die for the Collective and its mysterious creators, beings of higher consciousness known as the Fathers.

To live again… could anything else matter?

David has been called upon to serve once more in the most powerful military ever known to humankind. Thrust into a new existence where soldiers are recreated from wars of the distant past; he must now come to terms with his role in the Treaty Defense Force, the most lethal army ever created as an instrument of war. For better or worse, his life and his destiny now belong to the Collective and the elite military force they control… known throughout the Universe as the Immortals.

Controlled by a privileged and influential class of noble citizens and under the watchful eye of the Fathers, the Treaty Defense Force must safeguard the Collective, ensuring continued peace for all humanity. The Citizen’s Militia, a rival military force whose eccentric leader aims to restore humanity to a time before the influence of the Fathers, now threatens peace throughout the Universe.

Enduring the unimaginable and forced to do the unthinkable as a member of the fanatical Immortal Army, David must discover his true purpose. Is he the hope of all humanity, or as a sadistic soldier on the wrong side of history?

Amazon

Excerpt from Citizens and Soldiers © Copyright 2023 Joshua Smith

Swarms of black-winged creatures poured from the trees as the roar of massive aircraft engines thundered overhead. The enormous transport vessels cast immense shadows over the ground below, creating the illusion of dark clouds soaring quickly over the lush green terrain.

The vast fleet of Armada cruisers was spread out in a tactical combat formation as it rapidly approached the city of Najai. Each of their mammoth turbine afterburners threw up huge clouds of dust as the attack force soared just above the thick, forested landscape.

“Two minutes out from phase line one!” a voice echoed throughout the inner hull of one of the cruisers, the drop officer's voice barely audible through the deafening sound of hydrogen engines in full throttle.

The long rows of helmeted troopers instinctively responded to the drop officer’s cue with rehearsed precision, each looking left and right through their tinted face shields, and each raising two fingers in unison. Their voices echoed out the words as one, “Two… minutes!”

A soft red glow illuminated the inner hull where David sat cramped between other TDF soldiers. He shifted his body, adjusting the heavy, cumbersome gear that irritatingly piled over him and the other troopers. It was an uncomfortable aspect of the combat drop they had all tolerated since first clambering into the vessel back at the Armada assembly area.

It had been a long day since the expeditionary force first arrived near the outer ring of Ao Midori, a day filled with countless equipment checks, mission briefs, and combat rehearsals, a day now made even longer as they traveled in route to the designated combat objective.

David’s mind replayed the jest he'd first heard in the Northern Wilderness, words occasionally shared as an explanation for their often, harsh conditions and training.

It's to teach us to hate, he reminded himselfIt's all just to teach us to hate.

He reached up to the side of his black TDF helmet, manually activating the data display key with a touch of his gloved hand. He focused on the digital map that appeared on the inside of his tactical face shield, quickly pinpointing the precise location of their sortie relative to the rapidly approaching target.

He quickly toggled through the map display, reviewing each of the detailed images that he had already memorized through A-com sessions during hypernatic travel. He recalled the various lessons he’d received covering the planet's ecology, the political climate, and the rationale for the Treaty Defense Force to now intervene militarily.

“Stand… Up!” the drop officer’s amplified voice reverberated throughout the inside of the vessel.

The troopers echoed the command, simultaneously rising to their feet as one. The seats quickly collapsed into the walls, making space for the standing troopers who filled the aircraft's inner hull. Thousands of soldiers now faced the direction of travel, standing in long rows as the Armada transport ship vibrated through the low-level atmospheric turbulence.

Hook… up!” the drop officer's digital voice echoed again throughout the hull.

Each trooper reached above their head, grasping the locking hook that dangled from the static rail running the entire length of the hull. Hastily, they each retracted and connected the hook to a clasp hanging neatly over their shoulders, securing themselves to the heavy steel rail above.

“Check… equipment!” the drop officer ordered.

The long line of black TDF helmets turned as each trooper looked over their shoulder, echoing the command as one.

David went through each of the checks in his mind, Helmet secure, airlock in place, face shield sealed tightly…

His eyes shifted down to his torso, tugging at the buckles that connected the harness to his core-armored vest, his mind continuing the instinctive checks, No frays, no burs, no loose straps… nothing sharp, no twists in the harness.

He pulled hard onto the steel cable, bending his knees and allowing himself to hang freely to confirm its strength and security.

Drop-line secure…I'm good to go, he assured himself.

“One… minute!” The drop officer announced.

Thousands of troopers turned their heads as one, each looking over their right shoulder, simultaneously signaling the event with a single raised index finger as they sounded off loudly together, “One… minute!”

David looked down at the floor of the aircraft, attempting to slow his breathing through a deliberately long exhale, preparing himself for the impending drop. A familiar pounding in his chest returned, his mind now alert, anticipating the moment that would soon be upon him.

“Thirty… seconds!” the drop officer shouted.

The long rows of troopers each held up their right hand, touching their index finger to their thumb, forming a circle to signal the imminent drop ahead.

The vessel began its rapid deceleration to drop speed, forcing rows of troopers to lean forward involuntarily as the aircraft slowed. David gripped the cable tightly as the aircraft shuddered through the turbulence. His leg muscles flexed, struggling to remain standing as the increased gravity caused the full weight of his equipment to pull down on him. His eyes clenched tightly; his expression of uncertainty concealed behind the dark-tinted visor of his TDF helmet.

The drop officer gave the final command, “Prepare to hang!”

A blinding light cracked through the center of the aircraft’s floor as it slowly opened beneath them, emitting a high-pitched whistle of air. The sound quickly increased in volume as the opening expanded, becoming a roaring wind that violently rushed in from below, drowning out the rumble of the ship's afterburners.

The edges of the floor panel opened sideways under his feet, leaving him and the others to hang freely from the cable connection above.

David’s head tilted forward, staring down through the bright opening as it expanded, the blurring shades of green and brown quickly passing by underneath.

The soft red glow of the inner hull lights flashed to green, signaling that the drops had begun.

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Top 8 Military Thrillers (2023) Historical Fictions, Navy Books, Investigations and Mystery https://joelbooks.com/top-military-thrillers-historical-fictions-navy-books-investigations-and-mystery/ Fri, 28 Jul 2023 09:46:35 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=28738

Nothing beats a good military thriller. I’ll be honest with...

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Nothing beats a good military thriller. I’ll be honest with you, I’m into thrillers more than I’m into military books. But then, it makes you think for a second. Sure, there’s quite a bit of imagination in these books, but there has to be a bit of reality in such books.

Despite the fictional profile, I believe such things could happen, or maybe they've already happened. All in all, throw in a bit of thrill and action to the mystery, and you have the perfect book. Here are my favorite military thrillers released over the past years.

What Are The Top Military Thriller with a Blend of Mystery?

Fair Winds of Deceit, by Billy R. Wade (2023)

The action takes us back to the fall of 1971, a time in history we all know for the cold conflicts around the world. It's been a few good months since one of the best scientists in the Navy has disappeared without leaving any clues.

It may not be such a big deal, but the scientist has nearly finished a top secret submarine project. Working on the project by himself, no one can really complete it. In other words, the government must find him, no matter what.

Then, the story takes us to Colt. With years of experience in Navy investigations, Colt is the primary choice for difficult cases that most agents can't solve. This project is different from what he's used to, though.

He has been given a free hand by the government, so he takes advantage and builds a small team of old friends for the case. Torn between the mission and the new relationship he's in, Colt also has to face a bunch of assaults affecting his small crew.

It sounds like mission impossible, but a few plot twists change everything in Colt’s favor. With help from unexpected directions, the decorated officers are in a tight race against time. Only if he could actually survive, and this is where I'll stop with the spoilers and let you discover the rest.

Straight Shot, by Jack Lively (2020)

This is the first book in the series, and trust me, once you're done with it, you'll crave more action. The action takes us from the harsh war fields in the Middle East to the beautiful hills of France. Anyway, the story follows Tom Keeler.

Tom has done more than enough for his country after fighting in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. It's now time for his discharge from the Air Force squadron. He's still not sure what he'll do next, but for a start, he's planning a very long holiday in Alencourt, France, a place where his mother used to go as a kid.

Tom gets to Alencourt, and within his first hour there, three men try to murder him. It's not the best start for the experienced soldier, and he suspects there's more than just a random murder attempt.

His first thought is to jump on the first train and go back, but then, there’s something drawing him to this beautiful French town. It could be the fact that it feels like a holiday, with everyone around him speaking a different language. Maybe it's the laid back lifestyle, the cuisine, or perhaps his new crush.

Tom falls for a stunning policewoman, Cecile. During an investigation, she tells him that the murder attempt was aimed at someone else, a case of mistaken identity. Tom thinks those three men are the same thugs who left his French cousin paralyzed, so he decides to investigate further.

At this point, you won’t know what to believe anymore. There are connections with asylum seeking girls from the Middle East, missing people in the area, as well as his previous experience in combat. Tom's fighting spirit kicks in, and he starts an investigation on his own. And that's when things get messy.

Going Dark, by Neil Lancaster (2019)

The first book in the series follows Tom Novak and his real life experience after the army. He knows that his army years changed him as a person. He has got blood on his hands and a dark past he doesn’t want to talk about.

His first years as a refugee didn’t give him too much hope, but hard work put him in the elite Special Reconnaissance Regiment. He has passed his military days, but his military action years just won't let go of him, despite his new career as a police officer.

Things get messy when he has asked to go undercover and infiltrate a group of people traffickers. His cover goes down the drain, so he ends up chased by both Serbian thugs and other police officers.

He knows something is fishy when the Serbian mafia seems to know every move he makes. Someone in the police is a snitch for them, so he knows that he can’t trust anyone. At this point, he only has one option, to go dark.

Get ready for some gritty suspense and plenty of action. And more importantly, let me clear this out first, the book comes from a former detective sergeant, so you’ll get a pretty realistic story that feels like an inside job, totally worth it.

Red Metal, by Mark Greaney and Lieutenant Colonel Hunter Ripley Rawlings IV. USMC (2019)

With a severe military crisis in Asia and a few issues in Europe, it sounds like the perfect scenario for the Kremlin to attempt to take the eastern side of Africa over. Who would notice? Everyone's busy with all kinds of problems, and then, Africa has some incredible deposits of rare earth minerals.

Having access to such resources would make Russia the top leader in the hi-tech sector for many generations.

But the Americans have a different idea. A Marine lieutenant colonel and a captain from the French Special Forces team up with a Polish partisan fighter, a pilot, and a few other professionals to strike from behind enemy lines.

They know their countries have too much to worry about, so there’s no chance anyone would get involved with the Russians in Africa. But these guys are willing to give it a try.

The action spreads from land to sea and air, bringing a small unit of experts fighting in African jungles against Russian forces, only to prevent Russia from reaching world dominance. And to top all these up, there’s also the threat of a Russian nuclear detonation. Who’s going to win?

Raven One, by Kevin Miller (2017)

No guns, no armor, and lost in a hostile world, it sounds like the worst possible scenario. It's more than enough to give you some thrills, but wait until the action unfolds. This is one of those military thrillers so well written, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the action.

This isn't one of those Navy books where the hero gets stuck behind enemy lines. The action takes you inside a plane cockpit, and while it doesn’t seem so exciting at first, trust me, you’ll feel chills down your spine.

To give you a few hints, Wilson faces an enemy fighter plane. Across the space between them, he sees the pilot's eyes. They're dark, and they don't show any emotion whatsoever. The plane goes above him and gets in control of the situation.

Horrified, he realizes he's exposed, and there's not much he can do about it. And in the last moment, he realizes his enemy has an extra weapon that can end everything.

I’ll stop here with the spoilers, and I believe it's enough to get you hooked. Once you go through the first few pages, you’ll crave for action. The tension buildup is simply amazing.

Man Down, by Marine Mark Ormrod (2009)

This is one of those military thrillers written from a personal point of view. It's not just a random author using their imagination, but an actual former marine who loved the action. He spent much of his career fighting on the Afghan front, gathering plenty of prime time experience and detailed insight into the war.

But then, like any other soldier, he had a fear. And the unimaginable did happen one day.

A landmine took his right arm away, as well as both of his legs. Such catastrophic injuries took ages to fix, and the mental trauma is still there.

Written as a memoir, I believe this book is a must for everyone who loves Navy books. It's not a personal journal but detailed action right from the front. I'd go further and say it's also a motivational book for anyone who struggles with a physical disability.

But then, what did it for me was the detailed graphics of the war action. It feels like you’re there. And although many aspects feel like pure fiction, the fact that everything’s real makes this book even better.

All in all, this action-packed book is written with brutal and tough honesty. It’s dramatic at times, but it also exposes the harsh reality of war.

The Hunting, by Stephen Leather (2021)

When you think about doctors, you think about people in white uniforms who save lives. But then, can a doctor actually change his career and start taking lives instead?

This book tells the story of a British doctor, Raj Patel. Deployed in Syria, he has the primary mission to take care of injured military troops, as well as civilians. His great medical skills save lives. But like everyone else in a war zone, he has some fears.

And one day, those fears become a reality when he's mistaken for someone else and taken hostage.

The story takes us to billionaire Jon van der Sandt. His family has been murdered by jihadist terrorists, and he wants revenge. He hires a team of experienced mercenaries and former soldiers and sends them to Syria to find terrorists and transport them to his estate in the USA.

Unfortunately, these mercenaries also snatch Raj by mistake. And when the killing game begins, he realizes it's too late for him to explain his situation. Instead, he ends up caught in a sophisticated survival game, and he has to do whatever it takes to survive.

Get ready for an extraordinary action and, by far one of the most intense military thrillers out there. The pressure buildup stands out, and to be honest with you, I think this is one of those books that will make it into a movie one day.

Call to Kill, by Billy Billingham and Conor Woodman (2022)

This is the first book in a longer series and, by far one of my favorite military thrillers out there, packed with action, tension, and quite a few plot twists.

Mace ends up deployed in Yemen. He has one mission, saving some hostages. All odds are against him and his team. Despite having a decent plan in place, the mission fails.

Now, things are less likely to go in the right direction anyway because the local political scene is too corrupt.

On one side, General Ruak Shahlai is a local warlord who controls many politicians. On the other hand, American arms dealer Erica Atkins has some impressive connections too. She wants the war to go on, it’s just money for her.

Mace and his men team up with CIA agent Redford to prevent a catastrophe that will take Yemen even deeper into war, not to mention causing a horrible environmental disaster that would ruin the region.

It feels like the type of plot that anyone can anticipate, but there are a bunch of plot twists that will change everything. War is such a profitable business that pretty much everyone has some sort of an interest, and sooner or later, Mace realizes there aren't too many people he can actually trust.

Bottom line

I could probably go on with this list even further. There are plenty of good military thrillers and Navy books out there, some of them based on tough war realities, others written from pure fiction.

However, I believe the above mentioned list will satisfy your hunger for action, mystery, drama, and thrillers. And to make things even better, I've also included a few series with great endings, excellent for follow-ups and further action.

Check out also our favorite historical mystery books!

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Vietname Memories by Donald Tienhaara https://joelbooks.com/vietname-memories-by-donald-tienhaara/ Mon, 05 Jun 2023 07:43:45 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=27628

Elephants, tigers, snakes & camping near bigfoot (looking back in...

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Elephants, tigers, snakes & camping near bigfoot (looking back in the fog)

I want people to learn about and be inspired by my unusual stories of my experience in the Vietnam War.

–Donald Tienhaara

Donald Tienhaara was drafted into the army and did one tour of duty in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967.

While he considers himself to be a storyteller, not a writer, 50 years later from the time of the Vietnam War, Donald decided to record his remembrances of a series of very unusual events that God allowed him to live through, some of which few, if any, have seen or heard.

This collection of over 70 short stories is a one-of-a-kind, unique, and sometimes odd take on what was a devastating and frightful experience for all those who, like the author, had boots on the ground.

The author hopes the people who read this book meditate on the various stories and try to imagine themselves experiencing these extraordinary events. He says: “I often am amazed I actually went through this craziness.”

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

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Top 8+ Military Sci-Fi Books to Satisfy Your Hunger for Action (2023) https://joelbooks.com/best-war-military-sci-fi-books/ Wed, 03 May 2023 06:01:00 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=16469

Military sci-fi books are the ultimate blend of action, adventure,...

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Military sci-fi books are the ultimate blend of action, adventure, and imagination, taking us on a journey through worlds beyond our own and giving us a glimpse into the future of warfare and technology.

A bit of action, some sci-fi marines and lots of unexpected enemies – what could go wrong? Military science fiction books represent a trend these days. You have all the actions associated with the army, but it is not the terrorists you read about. It could be an alien invasion or perhaps some species of monsters that humankind is not aware of.

How Did I Select the Best War & Military Science Fiction Books?

When selecting the best war and military science fiction books, some of my most important aspects to consider include:

  1. World-building: The author should have a well-constructed, believable world that provides a rich and engaging backdrop for the story.
  2. Character development: The characters should be well-rounded, complex, and engaging, with motivations and goals that drive the story forward.
  3. Plot: The plot should be well-constructed, with a clear beginning, middle, and end, and a balance of action, conflict, and resolution.
  4. Themes: The book should have thought-provoking themes that explore the human condition, the nature of war, and the impact of technology on society.
  5. Authenticity: The book should have a sense of realism and authenticity in its portrayal of military operations and technology.
  6. Originality: The book should bring something new to the genre, whether it's an innovative concept, a fresh perspective, or a unique voice.
  7. Writing style: The book should be well-written, with a clear, engaging style that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the story.

All in all, here are some of the most exciting titles out there – chances are you will be hooked in even if you are not necessarily into military stuff.

What Are The Best War & Military Sci-Fi Books?

Ultimatum (Ultimatum series Book 1), by Vladimir Fleurisma (2023)

After reading Ultimatum, the first book in the Ultimatum series, I must say it was a thrilling military science fiction novel. The story takes place 18 months after the end of a 50-year resource war that ended with nuclear fire. The world is now a wasteland of cold and darkness, with a new mutated apex creature vying for control.

The protagonist, D, is a marine raider tasked with reaching Three Mile Island, a mission that requires him to traverse the nuclear wasteland while avoiding the terrifying new apex predator and other dangerous humans who also want to reach the island. D is determined to accomplish his mission or die trying, taking out every threat in his path.

The story begins with Thomas, a character who will meet his end in just under an hour. Thomas is working in a high-stress environment during a time when the world is teetering on the brink of chaos. His personal life is falling apart as well, with his wife asking for a divorce just before a nuclear attack devastates the area.

Following the attack, we meet D, who has survived the nuclear blast and is now trying to navigate the treacherous, post-apocalyptic world. He is resourceful and hardened by his experiences, relying on his instincts, training, and limited supplies to stay alive. Along the way, he grapples with his past, including memories of his sister and his time in the military.

Ultimatum is an intense and gripping tale of survival and determination, set in a hauntingly bleak future. The author has created a vivid and terrifying world that will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they follow D's harrowing journey to complete his mission. This book is a must-read for fans of military science fiction and action-adventure stories.

Terminal Peace, by Jim C. Hines (2023)

This is the third book in the series and by far the most impressive one. Sure, I think it might be a good idea to read the others too first, just so you can get a few details about the situation.

Anyway, the action follows Marion, known as Mops. She has a small team, and their job is to clean starships. They’re experts in cleaning, definitely not in fighting aliens or meeting new races.

However, they’re in the type of situation that requires them to adapt overnight.

And to me, that’s just like real life. When you face a challenge, you’ll realize that being qualified or trained can be overrated. Sometimes, it’s much easier to learn on the spot.

Anyway, the war is more and more aggressive, and the survival of humankind depends on what Mops and her crew will find on a different planet.

The numerous small details did it for me. There’s just so much about each species, so many secrets that the book can become overwhelming at some point, but trust me, you’ll love the experience.

Nightwatch over Windscar, by K. Eason (2022)

The action takes place in a different universe and brings together some unlikely allies who need to discover secrets together in order to survive.

Now, let me get into small details…

Iari loves killing monsters. She’s been raised and trained in a religious organization. Familiar with every challenge out there, she’s surprised to discover a brand new type of monster, a species she’s never seen before.

Iari is sent far with a few templars to investigate some ruins related to a different civilization. She’s not worried about monsters and ghosts, but she’s more concerned about someone she’s defeated before.

Surviving separatists from a previous war are ready for a new fight. And while she’s used to them, Iari knows they’ll be back stronger than ever.

But then, she discovers this new species that will change everyone's plans. I know, there are lots of plot twists here and there, and just when you think you know what will happen next, a new twist kicks in.

The Achilles Battle Fleet, by Brendan Wilson (2021)

This book redefines the military sci-fi genre and it is likely to become a classic. This is only the first book in the series, so get ready for more action. The author brings in an apocalyptic future dominated by modern technologies, international struggles and a lot of imagination – the type of book that will seriously trigger your worries. It is all about dominating the world, but things are not as easy as they may seem.

The alliance needs to fight the invaders. You have Mei Ling Lee, as well as Jay Chambers. Their role is to bring the star ship back to the planet from the Achilles Nine borders. However, things do not always go according to the plan, so they are likely to face an unexpected fate. Their dark destiny is waiting just round the corner and a few triumphant characters are about to take over.

There are different technologies used in the process and clones seem to help the enemy get stronger and stronger. An internal spy network adds to the plot twist and all the galactic laws are about to change now. The alliance is likely to crumble in front of the new threat. Get ready for an exciting war with numerous plot twists to blow your mind.

The Forever War, by Joe Haldeman (2009)

Humankind has managed to get into space. Interstellar travels are quite normal now and the Earth leaders have come up with some borders. The idea is to set some safety standards for everyone involved in the process. Sure, at the moment, there are no risks whatsoever – the alien enemy is too far to actually pose any threats, but you never know.

Private William Mandella has become an elite military soldier. His mission sent him in the middle of nowhere in space, only to end up fighting in a conflict that threatens humankind. His role is to perform his duties by the book, but his thoughts go in a different direction – he knows that performing like a pro will help him rank up.

But then, everything changes. William’s plans take a turn. He is no longer after ranking up – instead, he wants to survive and be able to get back home as quickly as possible. However, home is in a different time. Time dilation makes this venture even harder. The soldier ages months, while time on the planet is significantly faster – people he loves may already be dead.

Old Man’s War (6 book series), by John Scalzi (2007)

This is the first book in the series with the same name and one of the most exciting military sci-fi books out there. John Perry turned 75 and did two things on his birthday. First, he took a few moments at his wife’s grave. Second, he decided to join the army. At this point, interstellar travels are no longer an issue. But the bad news is that alien forces are hitting the planet from all directions.

Most resources for humankind are held together by the Colonial Defense Force. To join this force, you must be retired. The group does not accept young people. Instead, it is all about old individuals with decades of experience. Those who join will leave the Earth and will never be able to come back – it is part of the rules. The service takes two years – survive and you will get your own colony planets.

John decides to take this deal. There is not much he has to lose. He has a vague idea about what the Colonial Defense Force means, but he does not know much about the alien forces attacking the planet. However, the battle is way harder than he thought. With time, he turns into something that he may not even be able to recognize.

Battlefield Earth: A Saga of the Year 3000, by L. Ron Hubbard (2016)

The initial scenario is classic. The humankind is about to go extinct, and a new species may soon take over. However, the storyline is unique and will impress with its detailed characterization.

This book is a mix between Starship Troopers, Atlantic Gene and Dune. It grabs the best parts of these books and reinterprets everything in a unique manner.

Anyway, the action takes place in the year 3000. The world has been invaded by the Psychlos, so most of it has been destroyed. Human weapons meant nothing in front of advanced alien technologies.

There are a few people left, and they're used like animals by the invading species. The future is dark, but one man thinks differently. Jonnie wants to learn a bit more about the Psychlos and their strengths, but he also needs to gather a little army behind him.

Will his plan succeed? Get ready for an epic battle with plenty of plot twists.

Dune, by Frank Herbert (1965)

This book featuring sci-fi marines is a classic. If you have not read it, you might have played the game or watched the movie. It is a cult for military sci-fi fans and it has raised the standards for this genre. There are more books in the series, but it pays off starting with this first one. All in all, the action takes place on Arrakis – a desert planet in the middle of nowhere.

The story follows Paul Atreides. He comes from a noble family and his future looks bright and exciting. But when the time comes, he realizes that ruling the world is not the best thing out there. The world is not a very hospitable place and it seems that everything relates about a drug called spice – able to extend an addict’s life and improve the consciousness.

The boy has to face an unexpected journey when House Atreides is betrayed. His family is destroyed and the boy ends up on a difficult journey. His destiny is not to rule an inhospitable world, but far greater. He evolves and changes his name to Muad'Dib, only to help humankind reach a dream that goes on for centuries.

Terms of Enlistment (8 book series), by Marko Kloos (2014)

The action takes place in 2108. The world is different from today and there are more alliances out there – such as the powerful North American Commonwealth. While strong and glorious, the alliance is not going through its best times. In fact, some parts of it are bursting with conflict. Andrew Grayson is what rich society members would refer to as a rat.

To leave this condition behind, there are two options. First, you could win the lottery and get a ticket to another world. Second, you could join the service. Otherwise, you would have to spend your life eating the same thing day by day due to food restrictions – no future ahead. Andrew chooses to join the army for a higher chance to get some real food and overcome his condition.

He knows that he could get a retirement bonus, but he also knows about the chance to leave the Earth. He aims to become one of the best sci-fi marines out there, but as the action starts to unveil, he realizes that there are worse things that slum gangs or military bureaucrats out there. Good food and retirement come with a very high price – is it worth it?

The War of the Worlds, by H. G. Wells (1898)

This military sci-fi book have become a classic. It is the ultimate alien invasion story and it beats all the potential clichés you can think of. One of the most diversified military sci-fi books out there and while it may seem a bit difficult at times, the story is worth every minute. The story begins when an alien capsule lands in Woking. Obviously, everyone gathers to see what is going on.

No one has seen anything similar, so people are surprised about the event. But then, this wonder is likely to become a disaster. Things escalate pretty fast and martians emerge out of nowhere. At this point, terror takes the whole place over. Armed with superior weapons and heat rays, aliens start eliminating people in order to take the planet over.

Facing powers that humankind is not familiar with and advanced technologies, people face extinction. But then, while everyone is trying to survive hoping someone will do anything about the invasion, one man has a different plan – he is desperately looking for his wife.

Warhawk (17 book series), by Chris Wraight (2018)

This is the sixth book in the series – reading the others could help you understand everything and become familiar with the characters, but it is not mandatory. The action begins with the so-called Inner Walls facing a breach. Traitors are now in and they head towards the palace, feeling like victory is close.

The order is about to change and laws are altered to protect the palace. There are gambits everywhere. Saints are released and people do whatever they have in mind to survive. But among all this chaos, there is one man with a different goal – Jaghatai Khan.

The warhawk is only after freeing the Lion’s Gate space port. He has no resources left, but the energy for one more attack. He has to fight an old enemy, so the battle is also personal. Plus, he knows that this battle is not just about him, but also about the planet.

Final Thoughts on War and Military Science Fictions

Bottom line, these are some of the most exciting military science fiction books out there. The list can go longer, indeed, but these titles will satisfy your hunger for action while stimulating your mind with incredible and original sci-fi technologies and plot twists.

Check also our all time favorite sci-fi books.

The post Top 8+ Military Sci-Fi Books to Satisfy Your Hunger for Action (2023) appeared first on Joelbooks.

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Collision Course by Alan Zimm https://joelbooks.com/collision-course-by-alan-zimm/ Sun, 02 Apr 2023 15:34:13 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=26999

Collision Chronicles Volume 1 Alien Invasion! Government Tyranny! Organic Computer,...

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Collision Chronicles Volume 1

Alien Invasion!
Government Tyranny!
Organic Computer, with a catapult! (Catapult?)

That last aside, concentrate on the issues. What has first call on your catalogue of heroic talents: opposing wicked tyrants, or fighting off evil aliens?

What if the human régime doesn’t believe aliens exist? What if all those unelected bureaucrats on all those planets are concentrating on making people obey?

What’s preeminent, the alien menace, or the threat to freedom and human rights? Support or overthrow the government? If you overthrow the government, is humanity vulnerable to annihilation by the aliens? If you convince the government and join them to fight the aliens, are you capitulating to an oligarchy and sacrificing your chances for freedom? When is authoritarianism acceptable in a crisis? When must freedom be sacrificed for safety?

Collision Course is the first book of a series exploring how the end of the human race depends on the moods of a dysfunctional Organic Computer with identity issues.

The dinosaurs had it easier – just before they went extinct.

Amazon Author's Website

Excerpt from Collision Course © Copyright 2023 Alan Zimm

Corporate Captain Manchez was fuming. Exhausted. Frustrated. Worried. Eyes closed, he visualized details of the twitching dreadfuls that a just and righteous universe would inflict on all the idiots he had encountered over the last 24. Who allows morons on space stations? Dammit all and the universe it came in.

Manchez was floating in zero gravity at the pilot’s station in the command deck of Ajax, a bulk cargo shuttle returning from an emergency delivery sortie to Tevil Corporation’s orbiting spaceyard. The cockpit was as dark as his mood, illuminated only by the glow from controls, indicators, and information screens. The forward viewscreen showed black sky, Stars from the edge of the galaxy looked like they were hiding from the wrath of God; below lurked the ugly gray mass of Misplaced-4, one of the universe’s premier boring planets. The pilot’s combined control and survival seat, known in spacer’s black humor as “the coffin,” was shoved as far back as possible so he could stretch his legs. He leaned back, loosened his seat belt, and floated his heels above the instrument panel. All the bull manure he’d suffered through, plus being fourteen hours past bed time, would be enough to make an archangel grab an axe and start doing a Lizzie Borden on every one of those microbrains wearing Tevil Corporation beige.

He yawned widely. A nice siesta was required, say, twelve hours in bed, with somebody friendly.

The radio voice of the computer controlling the low orbital approaches to Dome City Spaceport had the sterile tone characteristic of Organic artificial intelligence computers. “Ajax, this is Spaceport Approach Control Organic—”

Saying ‘who to, who from’ starting every radio conversation was a communications protocol Manchez would like to nominate as spaceflight’s foremost total pain in the posterior. Why did he have to use it when dealing with spaceflight Organic computers? Advanced tankheads, so smart, they ought to be able to figure out who was talking. “It’s for safety,” the Spaceflight Regulating Agency bleats like some developmentally challenged sheep, “clearly identify who is talking to who.” Stupid rules, a bunch of sewage backflush, in Manchez’s highly-refined opinion.

“—my callsign is Approach Control Organic. Your vector good for Approach Cone Charlie. Cleared for approach.”

He wasn’t supposed to make up his own call sign, but dammit, if he had to do the ‘verbatim repeat back’ bullroar, an appropriate call sign would remind that tankhead of the quality of the rocket jock on his end of the conversation.

“Approach Control Organic, Ajax, my call sign is SuperHero. Roger, SuperHero is cleared, Cone Charlie, commencing approach.” And it would be greatly appreciated if you get every other idiot barge out of my way, like now, max blast, speed of light, he wanted to say. But didn’t.

Manchez glanced at the arrival countdown chronometer, and grimaced. The predicted arrival was past date time with Missy Hot-Body. She’d kill him. Or dump him. Bad, bad, bad.

It wasn’t fair, the junior pilot always getting tagged with no-notice sorties. He had just snuggled under the covers, yes, a little late, 0620, near the usual rising time for Tevil’s office peons, but he wasn’t scheduled for another 48. He was happily anticipating a lovely erotic dream after a shakin’ ‘n’ bakin’ night dancing and drinking at three nightclubs when he gets buzzed out of bed and fingered to deliver some Tevil Corporation executive’s bedpans or beauty cream or whatever it was that couldn’t wait for the regularly scheduled lift.

Then he had to deal with all those brain-dead oafs in orbit. First, the slothful union stevedores took the better part of an extended century unloading. Then, the lazy refuelers could have built the bleeding pyramids in the time they took to fill two lousy tanks with rocket-A. Next, in what was surely intentional sadism, Spaceyard Traffic Control couldn’t stop buffing its fingernails long enough to clear him off the dock expeditiously. Okay, Spaceyard Traffic Control was an Organic, and Organic computers didn’t have fingernails, so hell and creation there was no excuse for the piss-poor service.

He was bloody blue-blasted dammit-all late.

Manchez yawned, and scrunched his eyes closed.

Top it all, he got stuck driving Ajax and her freakin’ weird Navigation and Space Systems Organic. It was creepy ghoulish, growing brain tissue out of DNA and programming it like a silicon computer. Organics had superior parallel processing capacity and were honkin’ fast, but sometimes they were just—just weird. Like, Ajax Organic. That tankhead was an arrogant Frankenstein with an overinflated sense of narcissism flaunting the personality of a petulant three-year-old who had just popped his birthday balloon. Manchez would love to go nose-to-nose with the quant who programmed an Organic to sulk. Damn quants. Damn tankheads.

“SuperHero, Approach Control Organic. All approaches clear of traffic. Ground traffic is clear. You are authorized direct approach, Pad Two.”

Hallelujah! P2 was snug up to Dome City, only a three-hundred-meter sprint to the terminal airlock.

His very own Ajax tankhead just had to butt in. “SuperHero, Ajax Organic. Ajax exceeds allowable approach velocity. Stand by for a thirty second Number Six Aft Thruster braking burn. Acknowledge.”

Freya’s frosted bollocks! Clear Cones, direct approach, and something made out of gray glop wants me to go slow? Stupid, worthless rules. Put a tankhead in charge as the autopilot and all they know is their stupid rules. Bloody Organics and their nitpicking. You’d think the quants could program in a little compassion for somebody trying to make a hot date.

Manchez glanced at the Estimated Time of Arrival readout. ETA way too time-late.

Late for Miss Lihwa was a bad idea. Hot-Body Lihwa was too scorching temperamental and lava-volatile for him to hope she would forgive another missed date, or even tardiness. That Geoffrey ass had been hovering near her. Another blunder and the competition might cut him out.

Manchez didn’t make corporate captain by letting the riff-raff push him out of his chosen trajectory. Fork this braking burn bullroar. Feet off the instrument panel, he shifted the coffin forward so he could reach the controls. About time he ran this circus himself.

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Original Design by William D. Latoria https://joelbooks.com/original-design-by-william-d-latoria/ Mon, 18 Jul 2022 07:15:43 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=22640

The Blackshade Machine Book 1 A personal message from the...

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The Blackshade Machine Book 1

A personal message from the author:

I'm writing this series to challenge myself, my creativity, and to have some fun with fringe science/theories. It's fun to world build and make up strange yet believable reasons for why humanity is the way it is. Why do we have allergies? Why do we sleep? Why are we so poorly suited to live on Earth?

I hope as a person reads my stories it challenges them a little to think a little bit outside the box, and, of course, I hope they really enjoy it.

–William D. Latoria

Colonel Blackshade has been a Candaerican military officer his entire adult life. He loves his country, tolerates most of the population, and finds comfort in his daily routine.

Then the aliens appeared and twisted the course of his life into a knot.

Blackshade must appease the extraterrestrial visitors while simultaneously keeping the worst aspects of humanity’s population in check.

Should he fail, extermination, enslavement, and obliteration are all very real possibilities.

…this is a story of discovery, science, and survival…
…this is also a story about humanity striving to reach its full potential…
…but whether that potential is for the betterment of the species, or its desolation, has yet to be determined.

Amazon Blackshade Machine Website

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French Foreign Legion Commando by Harry Dobson https://joelbooks.com/french-foreign-legion-commando-by-harry-dobson/ Tue, 21 Jun 2022 08:04:34 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=22302

Legio Patria Nostra – The Legion is our fatherland. The...

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Legio Patria Nostra – The Legion is our fatherland.

The French Foreign Legion is a legendary branch of the French army known for its severe
discipline and its recruitment of ex-convicts, misfits and ruffians from every corner of the globe. Harry was only eighteen years old when he signed a five-year contract that would set him on a path from which there was no turning back. There, he would travel thousands of miles from home over mountains, through deserts and into danger. He would meet many good men and fight alongside some of the best soldiers the French army has to offer and be tested to his physical and mental limits. It was the adventure of a lifetime.

French Foreign Legion Commando is a memoir written by Harry A. Dobson after his 5-year term of service to the French army. During his time he completed a total of 3 tours of duty in Mali, North Africa. Harry was accepted into one of only two elite commando units within the French army. With the GCM – ‘Groupement Commando Montagne' (mountain commandos) Harry served his last 2 tours and fought in a number of high-profile missions, many of which made it to Front-page French newspapers.

The book outlines the many trials life in the French Foreign Legion presents, the highs as well as the lows. Harry describes all the fascinating characters he met along the way and the bonds of friendship he formed with men brought together by a unique institution.

Apart from the conflict of Mali, the book also covers the rigorous training French commando’s undergo and the complications Harry had to face as a non-French speaker and Legionnaire within that elite group.
Finally, the book aims to provide an insight into what life as a Legionnaire is like and the effect that the organisation has on the men serving within it.

You are seldom likely to stumble across such a story twice.

Amazon

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Danger on the Island by Steve Barker https://joelbooks.com/danger-on-the-island-by-steve-barker/ Wed, 04 May 2022 06:00:00 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=21319

Covert-Ops Book 2 A personal message from the author: The...

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Covert-Ops Book 2

A personal message from the author:

The main characters in this book struggle with military PTSD. Something I personally suffer with so can relate to the characters.

So if you are a fan of Bond, Bourne and Jack Reacher, you will love my Military Thrillers. Danger on the Island is the second of two books in the Covert-Ops series, with a third due out in 2022.

— Steve Barker 

Overwhelmingly captivating, Covert-Ops: Danger on the Island is a military thriller that uncovers the underbelly of the Isle of Wight and sheds some light on arms dealing, drug smuggling and people trafficking. Danger on the Island is sure to enthrall, engage and resonate with the reader for a long time.

Amazon

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Danger In Paradise by Steve Barker https://joelbooks.com/danger-in-paradise-by-steve-barker/ Mon, 02 May 2022 15:07:42 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=21312

Covert-Ops Book 1 A personal message from the author: The...

The post Danger In Paradise by Steve Barker appeared first on Joelbooks.

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Covert-Ops Book 1

A personal message from the author:

The main characters in this book struggle with military PTSD. Something I personally suffer with so can relate to the characters.

So if you are a fan of Bond, Bourne and Jack Reacher, you will love my Military Thrillers. Danger in Paradise is the first of two books in the Covert-Ops series, with a third due out in 2022.

— Steve Barker 

Three quick-witted and highly capable veterans, struggling with chronic PTSD, undertake a dangerous yet exhilarating mission which entails removing a drug gang from a private property on a small Caribbean Island. However, as the truth unfolds, things are not as simple as they appear on the surface!

Amazon

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