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The Fenaday and Shasti Chronicles #1
Abaculus II
The Greeks coined the word "abaculus" for the small pieces of glass used to create complex mosaic murals. Peopled with mythical beasts and oversized heroes, a fantastic pantheon of gods, and the humans who dared challenge them, these ancient murals embody the essence of imagination, built piece by tiny piece. In its second anthology, Leucrota Press brings you short stories from an international cast of new and experienced authors representing the best of contemporary science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Self-contained gems of storytelling craft, each story also fits into a larger picture of how the universe could, or might just, be. With an introduction by author T.J. Vargo, Abaculus II stories include works by authors: A.S. Berman, Edward McKeown, Robert Hunter, Joel A. Sutherland, W. D. Wilcox, David M. Peak, Murphy Edwards, Shane Nelson, and Erin Durante
273 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
99 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Edward McKeown
21 books62 followersEdward McKeown is best known for his two Confederation Space Series: The Robert Fenaday/Shasti Rainhell series of SF novels set on the Privateer Sidhe & set in the same universe, The Maauro Chronicles featuring a 50,000-year-old android named Maauro and her friend, a disgraced pilot named Wrik Trigardt, as they battle governments and the Thieves Guild for their freedom.
Fenaday/ Rainhell: Reluctant privateer Robert Fenaday searches the stars for his lost love, Lisa, a naval intelligence officer whose ship disappeared near the end of the Conchirri War. He’s joined by the genetically engineered assassin, Shasti Rainhell, whose cold perfection masks her dark past. Both are blackmailed by government spymaster, Mandela, into a suicidal mission to the doomed planet Enshar. Leading a team of scientists and soldiers, they must unravel the mystery of that planet’s death before an ancient force reaches out to claim their lives.
The Maauro Chronicles: “Three alien machines descend to the asteroid base of their enemies. The ensuing battle is short and savage. The lone survivor hopes either for rescue, or for another chance to engage its enemies. It will be a long wait…
Wrik Trigardt ekes out a living in the Kandalor system with his small ship, Sinner. He is caught between his failed past and a grim present in service to the local crimelord, Dusko. An expedition to the Rift Asteroids promises better days, but when the well of time is disturbed--no one can say what will surface.
***
His forays into Fantasy and Horror include the urban fantasy series Knight in Charlotte. He is the editor of the Sha’Daa anthologies of tales of the Apocalypse.
Ed enjoys a wide variety of interests from ballroom dance to the martial arts. Find him on Facebook, www.copperdogpublishing.com and at http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B004NM9ZU2
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
June 13, 2013
I gave up after 116 pages. (see below)
Hard to take supposed military fiction seriously when the three top officers of an expedition insist on going on a suicide mission. We know the author won't kill them, but what happened to verisimilitude?
Hard to believe a confederation of sentient species, who have just survived attack by a killer specie, would ignore the mysterious de-population of a planet and destruction of a military probe to inquire.
Further, repeated references are made to orbital windows despite the Sidhe supposedly being in a geosynchronous orbit. If it was, the orbital opportunities would not change.
People who can't pass high school physics shouldn't write science fiction.
Too much fiction, almost no science.
Later: having subsequently read an even worse novel, I went back and finished this. It still stunk, but I gave it an extra star because it wasn't that bad.
Hard to take supposed military fiction seriously when the three top officers of an expedition insist on going on a suicide mission. We know the author won't kill them, but what happened to verisimilitude?
Hard to believe a confederation of sentient species, who have just survived attack by a killer specie, would ignore the mysterious de-population of a planet and destruction of a military probe to inquire.
Further, repeated references are made to orbital windows despite the Sidhe supposedly being in a geosynchronous orbit. If it was, the orbital opportunities would not change.
People who can't pass high school physics shouldn't write science fiction.
Too much fiction, almost no science.
Later: having subsequently read an even worse novel, I went back and finished this. It still stunk, but I gave it an extra star because it wasn't that bad.
May 26, 2012
What the world needs is more SF like 'Was Once a Hero'. This is classic space opera, with interesting characters, fast action and a great mystery-laden plot. Better yet, sequels are coming. I highly recommend this well-written book.
May 3, 2015
4.5
This is space-opera at it's best. Fenaday, Shasti, and the rest of their regular, rag-tag crew of "cutthroats, screw-ups and a few pros" have an easy going rapport that was a lot of fun to be part of. Fenaday is your basic nice guy. Someone referred to him as a "gentle pirate" and it's an appropriate nomen descriptivum. He's not nearly tough enough for what he does, but he's smart enough to surround himself with those who can make up for it. I think it would be almost impossible not to like him. Shasti is just plain kick-ass...and let there be no doubt, she both has a nice ass and could kick your ass. Her character does fall a little vicim to the painful trope that for any real woman to be a brave, strong soldier she must also be broken or emotionally injured in some manner, but I'll overlook it. Then there are a whole host of side characters, some of whom I suspect will carry over into the next book. I especially liked the Tok brothers, Telisan and Mmok.
I was a little confused about people's country of origin. A number of characters are stated to be from certain countries (Ireland, Israel, etc.) but others are from planets (Mars, Enchari, etc.). I never could decided if the earthlings were meant to be from the actual geographic countries designated or if those countries were meant to have colonised beyond the confines of our Blue Planet. I would hope that intra-galactic travel would have weakened such human divisions.
The story itself had a little bit of mystery, a decent amount of action, a few heart-felt moments, and a couple good laughs. The book did seem to wrap up quite quickly once the mission had been accomplished and I never felt completely satisfied about the whole Lisa situation. But then again I don't think I was meant to. This is definitely worth picking up.
This is space-opera at it's best. Fenaday, Shasti, and the rest of their regular, rag-tag crew of "cutthroats, screw-ups and a few pros" have an easy going rapport that was a lot of fun to be part of. Fenaday is your basic nice guy. Someone referred to him as a "gentle pirate" and it's an appropriate nomen descriptivum. He's not nearly tough enough for what he does, but he's smart enough to surround himself with those who can make up for it. I think it would be almost impossible not to like him. Shasti is just plain kick-ass...and let there be no doubt, she both has a nice ass and could kick your ass. Her character does fall a little vicim to the painful trope that for any real woman to be a brave, strong soldier she must also be broken or emotionally injured in some manner, but I'll overlook it. Then there are a whole host of side characters, some of whom I suspect will carry over into the next book. I especially liked the Tok brothers, Telisan and Mmok.
I was a little confused about people's country of origin. A number of characters are stated to be from certain countries (Ireland, Israel, etc.) but others are from planets (Mars, Enchari, etc.). I never could decided if the earthlings were meant to be from the actual geographic countries designated or if those countries were meant to have colonised beyond the confines of our Blue Planet. I would hope that intra-galactic travel would have weakened such human divisions.
The story itself had a little bit of mystery, a decent amount of action, a few heart-felt moments, and a couple good laughs. The book did seem to wrap up quite quickly once the mission had been accomplished and I never felt completely satisfied about the whole Lisa situation. But then again I don't think I was meant to. This is definitely worth picking up.
October 26, 2012
Sometimes it is difficult for me to get into a science fiction story. Some of the terminology used can be quite confusing. Not this time around, though. It was an easy read for someone like me who isn't a hard core sci-fi fan.
Robert Fenaday's loss of his wife is heartbreaking and his search for her seems fruitless. Now, with the Conchirri War over, funding his search becomes a bit of a problem. Enter the little Enshari who is about to change all of that. Granted, the government wants to see Fenaday go on this mission ... and not come back, but this isn't why Fenaday chooses to accept.
Shasti Rainhell is definitely not a woman you want to mess with. She lives up to her surname in lots of ways. Always by Fenaday's side, she isn't about to let him go to the Enshar planet without her.
This book contains a myriad of aliens and robots, cyborgs and intrigue. Enshar was attacked by an unseen force and McKeown keeps you guessing until the end as to what exactly wiped out almost an entire species and then some. Very well written, great plot and strong characters. I would definitely read more from this author.
Robert Fenaday's loss of his wife is heartbreaking and his search for her seems fruitless. Now, with the Conchirri War over, funding his search becomes a bit of a problem. Enter the little Enshari who is about to change all of that. Granted, the government wants to see Fenaday go on this mission ... and not come back, but this isn't why Fenaday chooses to accept.
Shasti Rainhell is definitely not a woman you want to mess with. She lives up to her surname in lots of ways. Always by Fenaday's side, she isn't about to let him go to the Enshar planet without her.
This book contains a myriad of aliens and robots, cyborgs and intrigue. Enshar was attacked by an unseen force and McKeown keeps you guessing until the end as to what exactly wiped out almost an entire species and then some. Very well written, great plot and strong characters. I would definitely read more from this author.
January 6, 2016
This sweet short story collection, ON THE CASE, is not only awesome, but very reminiscent of the detective noirs penned by Sci-Fi greats Larry Niven and Robert Heinlein. Smack dab in the futuristic setting of Offworld, wisecracking Detective Brian McManus teams with Regina Del Mar to walk the mean streets solving cases and fighting crimes. And don't get me started on Freddie Bouvier, a transgender beauty that often steals the show. This excellent collection of short stories is no doubt just the beginning of what will be an excellent new Science Fiction Detective series, which I just cannot wait to read. Five stars all the way to the bank!
September 9, 2017
Review originally published at: http://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookre...
Robert Fenaday is in the constant search for his wife Lisa, whose spaceship was lost during the Conchirri War. Not wanting to give up he is making money now as a privateer and at the same time, still looking for her. Blackmailed by the government, he is assigned a suicidal mission: going to the planet Enshar, and find out what was that killed the remaining population and anyone trying to approach the planet.
I found this novel quite entertaining and action packed. Robert and Shasti are quite a charismatic duo, and it is almost impossible not to fall for them. With a past in common and some dark secrets, these are the most interesting characters of the book.
There are many characters in this story, and most of them are not very developed, which made difficult at times the task of following everything. I don’t think most of them were even necessary, but I guess it is the way McKweon decided to use to show how dangerous this mission was, since many of them did not make it. Nevertheless, I think it would have worked better with less characters and more developed.
I found the mystery of the planet Enshar very intriguing, until the point where we almost know what they are up against. I found it a bit disappointing, and anticlimactic. There was something in its execution that did not completely click with me. It was a pity, since the story was quite promising.
My main issue was with the narration. I was not comfortable with David Loving’s narration and at times he seemed to run out of air. All characters sounded the same, and this is what threw me back the most, since there were many and at times it was difficult to know who was talking. I had to make an extra effort that did not really pay off.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Robert Fenaday is in the constant search for his wife Lisa, whose spaceship was lost during the Conchirri War. Not wanting to give up he is making money now as a privateer and at the same time, still looking for her. Blackmailed by the government, he is assigned a suicidal mission: going to the planet Enshar, and find out what was that killed the remaining population and anyone trying to approach the planet.
I found this novel quite entertaining and action packed. Robert and Shasti are quite a charismatic duo, and it is almost impossible not to fall for them. With a past in common and some dark secrets, these are the most interesting characters of the book.
There are many characters in this story, and most of them are not very developed, which made difficult at times the task of following everything. I don’t think most of them were even necessary, but I guess it is the way McKweon decided to use to show how dangerous this mission was, since many of them did not make it. Nevertheless, I think it would have worked better with less characters and more developed.
I found the mystery of the planet Enshar very intriguing, until the point where we almost know what they are up against. I found it a bit disappointing, and anticlimactic. There was something in its execution that did not completely click with me. It was a pity, since the story was quite promising.
My main issue was with the narration. I was not comfortable with David Loving’s narration and at times he seemed to run out of air. All characters sounded the same, and this is what threw me back the most, since there were many and at times it was difficult to know who was talking. I had to make an extra effort that did not really pay off.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2017
"Is not each person a unique universe?"
In the last days of the Cinchirri war, something happened on the home planet of one of the United allies and all intelligent life was destroyed along with the cities and with explosions and outbreaks of fire everywhere. The cause was unknown. Five years later, the planet was a forbidden area still, an earlier expedition to monitor and look for causes having been destroyed by invisible forces even before reaching the planetary surface. But now the handful of Inshari survivors, living as refuges, want to go home. And it has been agreed that one of their number be allowed to return to the planet to determine the cause of the dsaster, if possible.
Considered a suicide mission, a ship's crew is secretly recruited under the command of a space pirate blackmailed into the task. With the unknown ahead, the ship faces anger, fear and possible betrayal. But the money is good - very good.
This is a well written, clever classic science fiction story with strong characterisation, plot and action. It is also very atmospheric, reminiscent of, though completely different from, Forbidden Planet. The narration by David Loving enhances the text and there is never a dull moment even when the action quietens. A book to recommend to any science fiction fan
I received my complimentary copy of Was Once a Hero, from the rights holder, free of any obligations, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you. I enjoyed it immensely and will look out for other books in the same series.
In the last days of the Cinchirri war, something happened on the home planet of one of the United allies and all intelligent life was destroyed along with the cities and with explosions and outbreaks of fire everywhere. The cause was unknown. Five years later, the planet was a forbidden area still, an earlier expedition to monitor and look for causes having been destroyed by invisible forces even before reaching the planetary surface. But now the handful of Inshari survivors, living as refuges, want to go home. And it has been agreed that one of their number be allowed to return to the planet to determine the cause of the dsaster, if possible.
Considered a suicide mission, a ship's crew is secretly recruited under the command of a space pirate blackmailed into the task. With the unknown ahead, the ship faces anger, fear and possible betrayal. But the money is good - very good.
This is a well written, clever classic science fiction story with strong characterisation, plot and action. It is also very atmospheric, reminiscent of, though completely different from, Forbidden Planet. The narration by David Loving enhances the text and there is never a dull moment even when the action quietens. A book to recommend to any science fiction fan
I received my complimentary copy of Was Once a Hero, from the rights holder, free of any obligations, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you. I enjoyed it immensely and will look out for other books in the same series.
November 19, 2024
Another Kindle Unlimited binge read, meaning books I am only reading until I decide whether or not I want to finish them. I got 8% through this one (up to Chapter 4) before I decided I wasn't interested enough to continue. It's not bad, but the writing is nothing special and neither is the plot.
Basically an AI war machine is trapped on a remote ball of rock, destroys its enemies, and left isolated and unable to get off planet, shuts down and goes into hibernation.
50,000 years later, humans and some other races have colonized this part of the galaxy, and your basic standard issue Free Trader/merc pilot Han Solo type is running fortune hunters around the system looking for alien artifacts. He's hired by a hot chick whose large breasts are described repeatedly, and they're all double-crossed and ambushed by the local mob boss. Maauro (the AI) wakes from hibernation, slaughters all the bad guys, and saves the Han Solo dude. She reads data from his ship and turns herself into an anime waifu from his video games. They form an impromptu partnership, and rescue Miss Big Titties.
If I had paid for this book, I would probably keep reading because it was moderately entertaining, but because I am churning through books with my KU subscription looking for those worth the time, this one goes into the DNF pile (though I might revisit it someday).
Basically an AI war machine is trapped on a remote ball of rock, destroys its enemies, and left isolated and unable to get off planet, shuts down and goes into hibernation.
50,000 years later, humans and some other races have colonized this part of the galaxy, and your basic standard issue Free Trader/merc pilot Han Solo type is running fortune hunters around the system looking for alien artifacts. He's hired by a hot chick whose large breasts are described repeatedly, and they're all double-crossed and ambushed by the local mob boss. Maauro (the AI) wakes from hibernation, slaughters all the bad guys, and saves the Han Solo dude. She reads data from his ship and turns herself into an anime waifu from his video games. They form an impromptu partnership, and rescue Miss Big Titties.
If I had paid for this book, I would probably keep reading because it was moderately entertaining, but because I am churning through books with my KU subscription looking for those worth the time, this one goes into the DNF pile (though I might revisit it someday).
February 19, 2025
What a great read!
This is one of those books that grabs your attention and imagination and doesn’t let go. I can usually read more than one book at a time, but once I started The Maauro Chronicles, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down.
If you’re looking for a book that captures your focus and keeps it, this is it!
~
EM
This is one of those books that grabs your attention and imagination and doesn’t let go. I can usually read more than one book at a time, but once I started The Maauro Chronicles, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down.
If you’re looking for a book that captures your focus and keeps it, this is it!
~
EM
September 19, 2017
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I really enjoyed this one and will look for more from this author.
Entertaining story. Pulled me along with nice pacing.
I really enjoyed this one and will look for more from this author.
Entertaining story. Pulled me along with nice pacing.
December 6, 2021
Excellent Reading
Action starts immediately, characters leap from the page and continue to develop through the entire book. Lots of action with twists and turns keeping those pages turning.
Action starts immediately, characters leap from the page and continue to develop through the entire book. Lots of action with twists and turns keeping those pages turning.
June 28, 2024
This is a good space opera.
The story has good, well developed characters, fast pacing and a very different space world.
An entertaining story with the two main characters keeping you totally engrossed.
The story has good, well developed characters, fast pacing and a very different space world.
An entertaining story with the two main characters keeping you totally engrossed.
March 10, 2025
I enjoyed it immensely
This is a well of written book that kept me entertained page after page. I would recommend it for all space opera fans such as I. Even though it is absolutely fantasy it was a good story
This is a well of written book that kept me entertained page after page. I would recommend it for all space opera fans such as I. Even though it is absolutely fantasy it was a good story
July 14, 2023
Similar to The Murderbot Diaries Science fiction book series by Martha Wells. Purchased this item on July 11, 2023, from Amazon for free.
February 19, 2025
WOW
Never stops we!l written. Kept me on the edge of my seat. The scenes are well done. The characters come to life. I hope there is more
Never stops we!l written. Kept me on the edge of my seat. The scenes are well done. The characters come to life. I hope there is more
January 27, 2013
Featuring my story "In the Mourning"
Do you believe in ghosts? Do you miss loved ones that have passed on to the next world? How far would you go to see them again? Would you try to contact them? How about revenge? If you were murdered, would you come back to seek out your killer? Would you want to warn the world of his crimes and help his next victim? Some people say that ghosts are people who have become stuck in this world because they have unfinished business and there many documented cases that ghost haunt houses, motels, and even places in the woods and near streams. One major question we must all ask ourselves is: Am I ready to leave this world for the next? Could you honestly say to yourself, I'm finished with this part of my life and I'm ready for whatever awaits? Many people are afraid to die, but there are reports that claim death is very peaceful. Many who have died and came back claim to have seen their families and were filled with joy. These people have said that they were told it wasn't yet their time and they should return and live out their lives. But, for others, they had no choice. If you had the chance to come back what would you do? Would you apologize to someone, hoping to make amends; would play one last prank on someone, getting the last laugh; or, would you take full advantage of your unique situation and become a first rate ghost, haunting houses and places you once lived? The stories in this book will surprise you. This is not a run of the mill ghost story collection. The fate of the last man on earth is learned as he tries to survive in a world filled with the ghosts. Another man has to save his sister from a demonic carnival. There's a woman who doesn't know she's dead and slowly learns what to do with her new found powers. You?ll read about a man who works very hard to renovate his family home, just to learn that a ghost won?t leave the builders at peace. At times, it isn't a person that haunts the living. Have you ever heard of an object becoming possessed? It's been reported many times how an object holds the spiritual remains of it's deceased owner and you'll come across objects in this book that have those qualities. At times the deceased are truly missed by the living, but can that sorrow be taken to far? Perhaps after reading this book you'll have an opinion on how much mourning is too much. In the end, we all know that death comes for us all and there will come a day when there's just nothing more we can do to avoid dying. At that time we will leave behind loved ones, and for some the worst part of leaving this world is not knowing how the ones we love will fair. Not having the joy of seeing our children grow up, watching get married, graduate, and become the successful men and women we raised them to be. This can be more distressing than dying itself. On the other hand, death is the one way we have which can reunited us with those who have gone before us. Death is a sad thing, both for the living and for the one passing. But is it the end? There are many questions to what lies ahead beyond this world and perhaps some of your questions will be answered in Thadd Presley Presents: Hauntings.
Do you believe in ghosts? Do you miss loved ones that have passed on to the next world? How far would you go to see them again? Would you try to contact them? How about revenge? If you were murdered, would you come back to seek out your killer? Would you want to warn the world of his crimes and help his next victim? Some people say that ghosts are people who have become stuck in this world because they have unfinished business and there many documented cases that ghost haunt houses, motels, and even places in the woods and near streams. One major question we must all ask ourselves is: Am I ready to leave this world for the next? Could you honestly say to yourself, I'm finished with this part of my life and I'm ready for whatever awaits? Many people are afraid to die, but there are reports that claim death is very peaceful. Many who have died and came back claim to have seen their families and were filled with joy. These people have said that they were told it wasn't yet their time and they should return and live out their lives. But, for others, they had no choice. If you had the chance to come back what would you do? Would you apologize to someone, hoping to make amends; would play one last prank on someone, getting the last laugh; or, would you take full advantage of your unique situation and become a first rate ghost, haunting houses and places you once lived? The stories in this book will surprise you. This is not a run of the mill ghost story collection. The fate of the last man on earth is learned as he tries to survive in a world filled with the ghosts. Another man has to save his sister from a demonic carnival. There's a woman who doesn't know she's dead and slowly learns what to do with her new found powers. You?ll read about a man who works very hard to renovate his family home, just to learn that a ghost won?t leave the builders at peace. At times, it isn't a person that haunts the living. Have you ever heard of an object becoming possessed? It's been reported many times how an object holds the spiritual remains of it's deceased owner and you'll come across objects in this book that have those qualities. At times the deceased are truly missed by the living, but can that sorrow be taken to far? Perhaps after reading this book you'll have an opinion on how much mourning is too much. In the end, we all know that death comes for us all and there will come a day when there's just nothing more we can do to avoid dying. At that time we will leave behind loved ones, and for some the worst part of leaving this world is not knowing how the ones we love will fair. Not having the joy of seeing our children grow up, watching get married, graduate, and become the successful men and women we raised them to be. This can be more distressing than dying itself. On the other hand, death is the one way we have which can reunited us with those who have gone before us. Death is a sad thing, both for the living and for the one passing. But is it the end? There are many questions to what lies ahead beyond this world and perhaps some of your questions will be answered in Thadd Presley Presents: Hauntings.
February 26, 2016
The one failing in this type of science fiction (Space Opera) is that there is often a significant amount of background. As in the real world, science based fiction seems to need more proof than the magic based.
I really liked this book...once it got moving. The first nine chapters were pure background music. We had to be introduced to the universe. The science. The cultural (special?) intricacies. And, of course, the relationships between the characters had to be hammered out. I still felt the first nine chapters could have been sumed up in two. And the first chapter almost made me put down the book, it was so cheasy an unrealistic.
The overall plot of the novel: A young shipping company heir loses his wife around the same time a planet mysteriously loses its entire population to an unknown (but violent) adversary. During both of these events there is a galatic war against an alien species bent on murdering everyone not them.
Fast forward a few years and the shipping heir has turned himself into a privateer (barely legal space pirate) who is searching the universe for a wife he refuses to believe is dead. Along for the ride, is an assasin with secrets of her own and a mean temper. After being blackmailed by the government, the duo is forced to take on a questionable crew to aid a professor of the remaining aliens left of the dead world. The professor is determined to find out what killed his planet and bring his people home.
(And we have now reached chapter 3. The next few are about them outfitting the ship. My frustration almost had me replacing the book.)
Once they travel to the world, other team not only have to battle personality conflicts, a hostile planet, and government interference; but to top it all off, the crew is divided and none too happy about being forced to the planet that destroyed a race.
On the planet, myth becomes fact and forgotten gods have risen to take vengeance on the planet they cannot leave. The team has to fight there way to the very heart of the world in order to get home.
Once they reach the planet, the novel is a page turner of adventure. While somewhat predictable, it is never the less a worth whole read. Just, next time, a little less talk at the beginning would be appreciated.
I really liked this book...once it got moving. The first nine chapters were pure background music. We had to be introduced to the universe. The science. The cultural (special?) intricacies. And, of course, the relationships between the characters had to be hammered out. I still felt the first nine chapters could have been sumed up in two. And the first chapter almost made me put down the book, it was so cheasy an unrealistic.
The overall plot of the novel: A young shipping company heir loses his wife around the same time a planet mysteriously loses its entire population to an unknown (but violent) adversary. During both of these events there is a galatic war against an alien species bent on murdering everyone not them.
Fast forward a few years and the shipping heir has turned himself into a privateer (barely legal space pirate) who is searching the universe for a wife he refuses to believe is dead. Along for the ride, is an assasin with secrets of her own and a mean temper. After being blackmailed by the government, the duo is forced to take on a questionable crew to aid a professor of the remaining aliens left of the dead world. The professor is determined to find out what killed his planet and bring his people home.
(And we have now reached chapter 3. The next few are about them outfitting the ship. My frustration almost had me replacing the book.)
Once they travel to the world, other team not only have to battle personality conflicts, a hostile planet, and government interference; but to top it all off, the crew is divided and none too happy about being forced to the planet that destroyed a race.
On the planet, myth becomes fact and forgotten gods have risen to take vengeance on the planet they cannot leave. The team has to fight there way to the very heart of the world in order to get home.
Once they reach the planet, the novel is a page turner of adventure. While somewhat predictable, it is never the less a worth whole read. Just, next time, a little less talk at the beginning would be appreciated.
February 10, 2014
Fearful Symmetry
by Edward McKeown
Synopsis
"Having survived the nightmare world of Enshar, Robert Fenaday abandons privateering and his quest for his lost wife to begin life anew with the genetically engineered assassin, Shasti Rainhell. But spymaster Mandela has other plans for the pair, intrigue and murder on Shasti’s home planet of Olympia. Fenaday must fight his way to Shasti, facing her deadly creator and an alien mystery that could destroy the Confederacy."
Review for Fearful Symmetry
This has been described as space opera; I wouldn’t know and haven’t a clue what that even means. I am a novice when it comes to the spectacular world of sci-fi, it is really not my cup of tea. Yet really well written, gripping work will always get my attention like Star Wars, Dr. Who and now the Robert Fenaday and Shasti Chronicles. The author has taken a basic fem-bot and turned her into a multi-dimensional character that makes you laugh, cry and cheer. I highly recommend this author.
If delightfully broken people and action are your thing, you will love this author, these characters and this story. However, be prepared to have a few heartstrings pulled in the process. Edward McKeown is really, truly one of the greats.
Since Shasti is my one of my favorite characters, I want to hug Robert Fenday and make it all better, and the cherry on top is a dazzling forward by B5’s Claudia Christian, I will give Fearful Symmetry my forbidden 5 glasses of wine.
Bravo, Edward McKeown, bravo. I can’t wait to read Points of Departure.
Review by Author Keira Kroft of Red Wine Book Reviews
by Edward McKeown
Synopsis
"Having survived the nightmare world of Enshar, Robert Fenaday abandons privateering and his quest for his lost wife to begin life anew with the genetically engineered assassin, Shasti Rainhell. But spymaster Mandela has other plans for the pair, intrigue and murder on Shasti’s home planet of Olympia. Fenaday must fight his way to Shasti, facing her deadly creator and an alien mystery that could destroy the Confederacy."
Review for Fearful Symmetry
This has been described as space opera; I wouldn’t know and haven’t a clue what that even means. I am a novice when it comes to the spectacular world of sci-fi, it is really not my cup of tea. Yet really well written, gripping work will always get my attention like Star Wars, Dr. Who and now the Robert Fenaday and Shasti Chronicles. The author has taken a basic fem-bot and turned her into a multi-dimensional character that makes you laugh, cry and cheer. I highly recommend this author.
If delightfully broken people and action are your thing, you will love this author, these characters and this story. However, be prepared to have a few heartstrings pulled in the process. Edward McKeown is really, truly one of the greats.
Since Shasti is my one of my favorite characters, I want to hug Robert Fenday and make it all better, and the cherry on top is a dazzling forward by B5’s Claudia Christian, I will give Fearful Symmetry my forbidden 5 glasses of wine.
Bravo, Edward McKeown, bravo. I can’t wait to read Points of Departure.
Review by Author Keira Kroft of Red Wine Book Reviews
August 4, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was mostly because I live right outside of Charlotte NC and found it fun and interesting to read about places I know about or have been. I had a couple of laugh out loud moments, like when the renaissance festival was mentioned, and the Time Warner Cable thing. . .my husband works for them and the irate customer crack had me calling him to tell him about it.
I have to admit I was a little confused as to the way this was written, I had assumed I was reading a short story when I came to the first the end and thought I was reading something completely else when the story started up again. It didn't take me long to notice it was all part of one story, and it probably got me more because I'm sick and my brain is a little mushed up right now. Once I got over that, I kinda liked the way it was written. Like a bunch of stories all joined together to make something else.
I liked the supporting characters, Shadowheart being one of my favorites with Debbie a close second. It was a pretty neat concept, though it never really got in depth about the Templars and I would have liked to learn more about the order and how Jeremy came to be a part of it. Especially since he didn't quite believe in things the way you would expect him to.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, anyone from the Charlotte area will enjoy it for the same reasons I did, and if your not its a good story in its own right.
http://zephyrbookreviews.blogspot.com/
I have to admit I was a little confused as to the way this was written, I had assumed I was reading a short story when I came to the first the end and thought I was reading something completely else when the story started up again. It didn't take me long to notice it was all part of one story, and it probably got me more because I'm sick and my brain is a little mushed up right now. Once I got over that, I kinda liked the way it was written. Like a bunch of stories all joined together to make something else.
I liked the supporting characters, Shadowheart being one of my favorites with Debbie a close second. It was a pretty neat concept, though it never really got in depth about the Templars and I would have liked to learn more about the order and how Jeremy came to be a part of it. Especially since he didn't quite believe in things the way you would expect him to.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, anyone from the Charlotte area will enjoy it for the same reasons I did, and if your not its a good story in its own right.
http://zephyrbookreviews.blogspot.com/
March 20, 2012
Was Once a Hero by Edward McKeown is a fun science fiction story set in the distant future. After years of inter-planetary war, where Humans and six other alien species have had to team up and brought down the terrible Conchirri that were spreading havoc wherever they could; no one is ready to place themselves in harm’s way by attempting to study the frightening unexplained force that apparently came out of nowhere and was able to destroy the entire Enshari civilization within hours. Few will even talk of it, but whatever horror befell these people, it seems to have had enough intelligence to attack only the peaceful Enshari; it left the wildlife of their planet Enshar unharmed.
As a pirate crew is not usually comprised of kind souls willing to risk themselves for the sake of helping others, much trickery, and ultimately unbelievable rewards must come about to get everyone to approach the unknown cause of unequaled calamity. Captain Fenaday is not surprised that his lying to outlaws in an attempt to throw them unsuspectingly against mortal danger can’t be taken without talk of a mutiny. Still, the ageing Enshari, Belwin Duna, is able to tunnel his way into even the darkest of hearts on the ship. What evil awaits on this planet that would indiscriminately wipe out his entire non-threatening people?
As a pirate crew is not usually comprised of kind souls willing to risk themselves for the sake of helping others, much trickery, and ultimately unbelievable rewards must come about to get everyone to approach the unknown cause of unequaled calamity. Captain Fenaday is not surprised that his lying to outlaws in an attempt to throw them unsuspectingly against mortal danger can’t be taken without talk of a mutiny. Still, the ageing Enshari, Belwin Duna, is able to tunnel his way into even the darkest of hearts on the ship. What evil awaits on this planet that would indiscriminately wipe out his entire non-threatening people?
May 25, 2012
Story Line: A dead wife, no job, a government that knows all your illegal actions and can take you down, a vanishing race, and a mission that very well could be your death. In a pleasantly entertaining and decently quick read you get to follow the way Robert Fenaday went from being on top to being almost blackmailed into giving away possibly his life for a mission.
Characters: Lisa, Robert, Telisan, Shasti, and a whole ships worth of crew.
My Favorite Part: When Robert and Mandela have a conversation about wanting Robert to go on this suicide mission as it would appear. Mandela tells Robert of all the illegal actions that the government knows about but has not taken him to court on yet. I found the whole conversation hilarious.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. There were some parts in there that seemed to drag on for me which was a bit disheartened for a short story. HOWEVER, minus those few parts I really enjoyed this read. I don’t want to go too much into it because I don’t do spoilers. However I do recommend if you want a very enjoyable space adventure to sink into then you should pick up this book. Follow Robert as he watches his wife leave on a mission to find out 11 months later she will not be returning. Selling all he has to get a ship to search for her leaving him with no money, no work, and no wife until a request to go on a mission that may be his last.
Characters: Lisa, Robert, Telisan, Shasti, and a whole ships worth of crew.
My Favorite Part: When Robert and Mandela have a conversation about wanting Robert to go on this suicide mission as it would appear. Mandela tells Robert of all the illegal actions that the government knows about but has not taken him to court on yet. I found the whole conversation hilarious.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. There were some parts in there that seemed to drag on for me which was a bit disheartened for a short story. HOWEVER, minus those few parts I really enjoyed this read. I don’t want to go too much into it because I don’t do spoilers. However I do recommend if you want a very enjoyable space adventure to sink into then you should pick up this book. Follow Robert as he watches his wife leave on a mission to find out 11 months later she will not be returning. Selling all he has to get a ship to search for her leaving him with no money, no work, and no wife until a request to go on a mission that may be his last.
November 25, 2013
This is the kind of Science Fiction with military-space opera and aliens that I thoroughly enjoy. Robert Fenaday and his somewhat trustworthy mash-up of a crew take on a mission to reunite a planet with its native sentient species at the barrel of a gun. Doing battle with an ancient and powerful foe which killed off an entire planets occupants the crew of the Sidhe (pronounced 'she') will have to rely on people they would never turn their backs on in the bright light of day.
I have not thought of an alien being that resembled an otter the size of a human in puberty before and it seems reminiscent of the Beaver from the Chronicles of Narnia. To often in contemporary Science Fiction do authors neglect the possibility that we will encounter life out there not like us. Works like this are necessary to prepare us with and open mind.
Excellent world building, awe-inspiring looks at where the human species may go and top-notch editing define this work. It took me nearly a year to reach it in my 'to be read' pile but I am glad that I did.
I give this work five out of five stars and advise you parents out there to let your teenager read this book, it won't harm them at all.
http://www.amazon.com/Once-Hero-Fenad...
I have not thought of an alien being that resembled an otter the size of a human in puberty before and it seems reminiscent of the Beaver from the Chronicles of Narnia. To often in contemporary Science Fiction do authors neglect the possibility that we will encounter life out there not like us. Works like this are necessary to prepare us with and open mind.
Excellent world building, awe-inspiring looks at where the human species may go and top-notch editing define this work. It took me nearly a year to reach it in my 'to be read' pile but I am glad that I did.
I give this work five out of five stars and advise you parents out there to let your teenager read this book, it won't harm them at all.
http://www.amazon.com/Once-Hero-Fenad...
March 7, 2010
The second in Leucrota Press Publishing's collection of the best short stories submitted to it by new and established writers, this edition has 18 tales of science fiction, fantasy and horror. The best (in my opinion) are "The Photograph of Carolina Stump" by W.D. Wilcox, about a mysterious house and the diary left behind by its former occupant; "Must Have Own Weapons" by Edward McKeown, about an interesting trip into the past; "Single Malt" by Shane Nelson, about a drinking club and its very unusual vintage; "Desire in Death" by David M. Peak, about how far a man will go to be with the object of his affections, and "Soul Gem" by Arnold Lenzini, a tale set in feudal Japan involving treachery, deceit, murder and supernatural revenge.
All of the stories are excellently written, so you can't miss with any of them.
All of the stories are excellently written, so you can't miss with any of them.
January 27, 2013
Sixteen short science fiction stories highlighting the winners of the 8th annual CrossTIME Short Science Fiction Contest. Winners are Robin Tiffney (Santa Barbra, CA), James M. Thompson (Carmel, IN), Ellen Straw (Covina, CA), James Verlander (League City, TX), Tom Catalano (Eugene, OR), Sam Foskey (Carbondale, IL), John A. Holt, Jr. (Quincy, MA ), Gary Jugert (Lakewood, CO), Edward McKeown (Charlotte, NC), Jonathan Moffat (Arlington, VA), Jennifer Packard (East Providence, RI), Laura Hodges Poole (Anderson, SC), Jason Hodges (Newberry, FL), Eric Price (Florissant, MO), John Standfield (Wayland, MA), and Vern Wilcox (Thousand Oaks, CA).
Features my story The Devil and The Details (Jeremy Leclerc Knight Templar series)
Features my story The Devil and The Details (Jeremy Leclerc Knight Templar series)
June 24, 2016
The second book in the Maauro Chronicles is even better than the first, and no, this is not mere hyperbole. Having worked my way through high school and college devouring all the classics of science fiction and fantasy, it is nothing short of a thrill to read this exciting adventure that continues the saga of battle android M-4 (Maauro) and her human companion Wrik Trigardt as they find themselves reluctant recruits for intergalactic espionage and assigned to tracking down a cadre of missing Terran scientists. With nods to works by Isaac Asimov, Keith Laumer, Andre Norton, C.J. Cherryh, and Robert Heinlein among others, AGAINST THAT TIME takes on the time-honored cliche of the misfit spaceship crew and takes it to strange new heights. I give this book the serious high five.... stars!
September 3, 2018
This is the first book in the series in which relationships other than Maauro/Wrik have real emotional weight. It's a big improvement in terms of making the world feel lived in, and it gives Maauro a chance to interact with people other than Wrik in a social setting.
McKeown does a good job setting up the villain to give Maauro compelling challenges without compromising her powerful nature. At the same time, we learn about, but don't get mired in, Wrik's past. Looking back is an opportunity to see how the characters have grown; it's effective.
I think it would be better not to put Maauro's entire perspective in italics. Her voice is readily distinguishable from Wrik's, and even if it were not, there are less annoying ways to indicate POV.
April 28, 2012
As a co-editor for this book, and a contributor as well, I found the tales in this anthology to be of the best quality with new and established authors being represented. Tales rank from humorous to the macabre and perhaps, in the dark hours, will allow a shiver to course up and down the spine.
As I read the final compilation, I was amazed at the fabulous array of tales and the fantastic imagination of the contributing authors. If you enjoy a vampire story, there is definitely at least one in this collection to make your blood run cold ... or should I say, allow its warmth be sucked out of you.
As I read the final compilation, I was amazed at the fabulous array of tales and the fantastic imagination of the contributing authors. If you enjoy a vampire story, there is definitely at least one in this collection to make your blood run cold ... or should I say, allow its warmth be sucked out of you.
July 27, 2012
What an amazing Scifi read :D Talk about hard times and cool adventures this one is filled with both :D Believe it or not the sexy assassin is one of my fav characters 0.o Hahaha sorry but true, although I do love the captian as well :O I'm horrible. Robert pulls together a crew to help him search for his lost wife, awwww isn't that sweet :) Still love the sexy assassin the most lol nothing not to like about her :) Ok, this story is most defiantly a wonderful read, this amazing author has made outstading characters, wonderful plots and one hell of an adventure :) Must read for all of you scifi fanatics :) So can't wait to see more of your stories :D
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March 7, 2013
I found this series of vignettes loosely tied together with a central cast of characters to be flat-out fun. From Hell, to Heaven and Faerie in between, I loved the fast-paced, irreverent style and by the end had fallen in love with many of the supernatural players, some of whom had developed some real depth in spite of themselves. And all against the backdrop of the sprawling Southern town-on-steroids that I, too, have a love/hate relationship with. With its vampire hookers and demon bankers, McKeown makes me proud to be a Charlottean. I highly recommend this book, and I'm hoping we'll see more of Jeremy LeClerc and Shadowheart in the future.
November 26, 2015
This one has been on my "to read" list for a while and I've finally gotten around to giving it a go. The story was well written and interesting. For me, I think the highlight was the number of characters and their various backgrounds and personalities. I especially liked Belwin and his wise old ways. The pace of the story was decent with bits of action intermingled with the exploring and politicking. I would have liked a bit broader view of fleet and the organizational structure of the military and political situations. There were parts where I was trying to remember who belonged to which group. Overall a good story and I will definitely follow up with subsequent books.
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