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Prosperine #1
Avanaux
Librarian Note: Alternate Cover Edition for ASIN: B00S1SNAVE.
Earth’s Intragalactic Agency is negotiating with the government of the planet Prosperine for exclusive mining rights to the rare metal Crynidium, needed to power their faster-than-light Surfboard® technology.
Intelligence suggests a radical element is plotting to overthrow the government, while a mystic known as the Teacher has been seen performing miracles. They approach the Alien Corps to assist with their investigation.
More is at stake than Earth’s trading supremacy. If this Teacher turns out to be the one the Alien Corps have been looking for so long, it could signal the end of all life in the galaxy.
Commander Hickory Lace and her team are sent to investigate.
If you enjoy tales of future dystopias packed with action and adventure, you'll love The Alien Corps. Mystery, adventure, psi abilities, an alien who could be the incarnation of Jesus, and a classic writing style that evokes Simak, Heinlein, and Anderson.
® Registered Trade Mark of the Intragalactic Agency
Available in eBook, paperback and audiobook formats
Earth’s Intragalactic Agency is negotiating with the government of the planet Prosperine for exclusive mining rights to the rare metal Crynidium, needed to power their faster-than-light Surfboard® technology.
Intelligence suggests a radical element is plotting to overthrow the government, while a mystic known as the Teacher has been seen performing miracles. They approach the Alien Corps to assist with their investigation.
More is at stake than Earth’s trading supremacy. If this Teacher turns out to be the one the Alien Corps have been looking for so long, it could signal the end of all life in the galaxy.
Commander Hickory Lace and her team are sent to investigate.
If you enjoy tales of future dystopias packed with action and adventure, you'll love The Alien Corps. Mystery, adventure, psi abilities, an alien who could be the incarnation of Jesus, and a classic writing style that evokes Simak, Heinlein, and Anderson.
® Registered Trade Mark of the Intragalactic Agency
Available in eBook, paperback and audiobook formats
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2015
317 people are currently reading
914 people want to read
About the author
P.J. McDermott
11 books25 followersPJ lived in Ferguslie Park, the setting for his debut novel, Small Fish Big Fish, (republished as Caught in the Long Grass) until he was fifteen. At twenty-one he went back to study full-time at Langside College, and from there to Glasgow University, graduating Bachelor of Science.
A regular on the Scottish Folk Club circuit, PJ played guitar and sang with his friends and cousins for pocket money. He lived in Paisley until, at the age of twenty-six, he met and married Sue, who convinced him to return with her to Australia, a move he has never regretted.
In 2014, PJ discovered a modest talent for writing and published Small Fish Big Fish: A Coming of Age Novel.
PJ's first love is Science Fiction, and he has written several books in this genre including the epic series, Prosperine: The Adventures of the Space Heroine Hickory Lace.
PJ lives with his wife, in Melbourne. They have two beautiful daughters, and three seriously cheeky grandchildren.
A regular on the Scottish Folk Club circuit, PJ played guitar and sang with his friends and cousins for pocket money. He lived in Paisley until, at the age of twenty-six, he met and married Sue, who convinced him to return with her to Australia, a move he has never regretted.
In 2014, PJ discovered a modest talent for writing and published Small Fish Big Fish: A Coming of Age Novel.
PJ's first love is Science Fiction, and he has written several books in this genre including the epic series, Prosperine: The Adventures of the Space Heroine Hickory Lace.
PJ lives with his wife, in Melbourne. They have two beautiful daughters, and three seriously cheeky grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 1, 2016
Avanaux: A Hickory Lace Adventure is a vivid, fast-paced sci-fi adventure by PJ McDermott who is gifted with an incredible writing style. (The description of the story is well-defined by the author in his own words, so I did not feel it necessary to repeat them here in this review.)
Reading Avanaux was a pleasure, feeling as if your own two feet were planted on the ground of the wonderful world that McDermott depicts. You were immersed with the team as they traveled from Earth, through space, to Prosperine.
The story reminded me a beautiful painting, where its surface of vibrant colors or subject matter, simply and elegantly drawn, reel you in, and then upon deeper reflection, it’s the details, the brushstrokes (like the insertion of technologies), the hidden or obscured “imagery” (for example, the torment Hickory endures that weaves in and out of the story) that makes the composition work and stay with you. McDermott’s prose is descriptive, yet efficient. It’s an easy and comfortable read with clear, focused, and bold concepts.
I found Prosperine and the aliens in Avanaux believable and interesting. And, the theological facet was cleverly done; a new approach to an age-old question.
I do wish the heroine (Hickory Lace) had a bit more depth. I did not feel any particular attachment to her as compared to the others on her team. She just didn’t stand out for me. Also, I would have liked to see her “gifts” used sooner in the novel, and more cleverly. One gift in particular was fuzzy, with no clear explanation (I do not want to give away any spoilers.)
The two very distinctive parallel plots kept me wondering if they would eventually collide or merge into one. And, whereas one plot line was clear and familiar, the other, the hint of a coming apocalypse left no trail of breadcrumbs. The focus was on the Teacher, but not enough “events” to carry you along with the premise.
While the world building was spectacular in detail, some of the action scenes, or the demise of some of the characters were hurried, or too quickly resolved (i.e. suspense).
The human/alien relationships were well thought out. And, the contrast between two societies in their current stages of technological advancements was also very clever and interesting.
All in all, I would highly recommend Avanaux. There is a descriptive purity that you rarely see in a writer. That alone is reason to read this novel. It’s refreshing and engaging, almost musical.
I couldn’t put it down (I read it in one day), but, in the end I was left with wanting a bit more.
Reading Avanaux was a pleasure, feeling as if your own two feet were planted on the ground of the wonderful world that McDermott depicts. You were immersed with the team as they traveled from Earth, through space, to Prosperine.
The story reminded me a beautiful painting, where its surface of vibrant colors or subject matter, simply and elegantly drawn, reel you in, and then upon deeper reflection, it’s the details, the brushstrokes (like the insertion of technologies), the hidden or obscured “imagery” (for example, the torment Hickory endures that weaves in and out of the story) that makes the composition work and stay with you. McDermott’s prose is descriptive, yet efficient. It’s an easy and comfortable read with clear, focused, and bold concepts.
I found Prosperine and the aliens in Avanaux believable and interesting. And, the theological facet was cleverly done; a new approach to an age-old question.
I do wish the heroine (Hickory Lace) had a bit more depth. I did not feel any particular attachment to her as compared to the others on her team. She just didn’t stand out for me. Also, I would have liked to see her “gifts” used sooner in the novel, and more cleverly. One gift in particular was fuzzy, with no clear explanation (I do not want to give away any spoilers.)
The two very distinctive parallel plots kept me wondering if they would eventually collide or merge into one. And, whereas one plot line was clear and familiar, the other, the hint of a coming apocalypse left no trail of breadcrumbs. The focus was on the Teacher, but not enough “events” to carry you along with the premise.
While the world building was spectacular in detail, some of the action scenes, or the demise of some of the characters were hurried, or too quickly resolved (i.e. suspense).
The human/alien relationships were well thought out. And, the contrast between two societies in their current stages of technological advancements was also very clever and interesting.
All in all, I would highly recommend Avanaux. There is a descriptive purity that you rarely see in a writer. That alone is reason to read this novel. It’s refreshing and engaging, almost musical.
I couldn’t put it down (I read it in one day), but, in the end I was left with wanting a bit more.
April 27, 2016
Avanaux (A Hickory Lace scifi-fantasy adventure) lives up to its subtitle. It is a rock em/sock em, roll up your sleeves, put on your sneakers adventure filled with intrigue, mystery, good guys, bad guys, demoralizing captures, narrow escapes, tense fights, and epic battles.
Avanaux is the northern continent on the planet Prosperine where galactic forces have cast malevolent eyes on its crynidium deposits, needed for ftl travel. Hickory Lace and her two teammates, Gareth and Jess, drop into this cauldron to determine if a mystical figure's presence, who may or may not be the predicted Messiah, might stir unrest, foment rebellion, and threaten who controls crynidium mining. Stage set, the curtain rises, and the adventure begins.
While the plot and characters break no new ground, you'll find yourself shaking a fist at their ill-advised risks, groaning at the contrivances needed to pull them out, rolling your eyes when they stumble into traps, then urge them to run faster when pursuers close the distance. Whatever the plot's weaknesses, the emotional involvement of a reader is the hallmark of a good storyteller.
Finally, I commend the author for his courageous stance in including a character who Hickory, without ever becoming didactic or preachy, thinks might be a returned Jesus Christ. Too many writers play it safe, unwilling to compromise potential sales or step onto treacherous ground. Fiction is at its best when a novelist does not flinch at being provocative.
With summer looming, Avanaux is a fun read perfect for the backyard hammock or a comfortable beach chair while on holiday.
Avanaux is the northern continent on the planet Prosperine where galactic forces have cast malevolent eyes on its crynidium deposits, needed for ftl travel. Hickory Lace and her two teammates, Gareth and Jess, drop into this cauldron to determine if a mystical figure's presence, who may or may not be the predicted Messiah, might stir unrest, foment rebellion, and threaten who controls crynidium mining. Stage set, the curtain rises, and the adventure begins.
While the plot and characters break no new ground, you'll find yourself shaking a fist at their ill-advised risks, groaning at the contrivances needed to pull them out, rolling your eyes when they stumble into traps, then urge them to run faster when pursuers close the distance. Whatever the plot's weaknesses, the emotional involvement of a reader is the hallmark of a good storyteller.
Finally, I commend the author for his courageous stance in including a character who Hickory, without ever becoming didactic or preachy, thinks might be a returned Jesus Christ. Too many writers play it safe, unwilling to compromise potential sales or step onto treacherous ground. Fiction is at its best when a novelist does not flinch at being provocative.
With summer looming, Avanaux is a fun read perfect for the backyard hammock or a comfortable beach chair while on holiday.
May 15, 2016
Initially, I was not sure I was going to enjoy Avanaux. The initial high-tech bike race left me confused rather than curious. By the third chapter, I was totally hooked. This intriguing story takes place roughly 160 years in the future where faster-than-light-speed is only one of a number of extraordinary technologies, and earth is part of a confederation of aligned planets. If I have a quibble with Avanaux, it is that 160 years feels a little to ‘near future’ given the technology and breadth of interstellar exploration.
In this future, a special branch of space-explorers is dedicated to discovering if an ancient (currently unknown) text by Saint Phillip could be true – that the second coming of Christ would be on a distant planet. Hickory Lace is member of this unique group and wonderful addition to the Action Heroine pantheon with her combination of intelligence, empathy, and combat skills. As in all true action adventure (science fiction or otherwise), nothing goes according to plan. Enemies appear from nowhere and betrayal comes from unexpected sources.
Rounding out an excellent read is McDermott’s brilliantly creative depictions of distant worlds and humanoid species that evolved along avian and other lines.
In this future, a special branch of space-explorers is dedicated to discovering if an ancient (currently unknown) text by Saint Phillip could be true – that the second coming of Christ would be on a distant planet. Hickory Lace is member of this unique group and wonderful addition to the Action Heroine pantheon with her combination of intelligence, empathy, and combat skills. As in all true action adventure (science fiction or otherwise), nothing goes according to plan. Enemies appear from nowhere and betrayal comes from unexpected sources.
Rounding out an excellent read is McDermott’s brilliantly creative depictions of distant worlds and humanoid species that evolved along avian and other lines.
June 21, 2019
2019 grade C+ = Optional plus read.
This was just the sample sent by Amazon but I do not know how to enter that in Goodreads. Anyway my notes say it is a SciFi Messiah Search. Interesting but not enough to make me buy the book.
This was just the sample sent by Amazon but I do not know how to enter that in Goodreads. Anyway my notes say it is a SciFi Messiah Search. Interesting but not enough to make me buy the book.
June 16, 2015
“Avanaux: A Hickory Lace Adventure” was an enjoyable read. The ‘world building’ was one of the most fascinating aspects of the novel, with the depth and breadth of the setting creating an immersive experience for the reader. Not only are the various races, planetary sceneries, and governing galactic organizations both interesting and well-formed, but the details of the technology employed throughout the novel is artistically defined without being overly complicated. Therefore the technology does not intrude on the story, but complements it.
Within the colorful setting there are of course the characters and plot. The characters are compelling, especially the protagonist Hickory Lace, who is ornamented with imperfections and bears the burden of a broken relationship with her father. This theme ebbs and flows throughout the novel, yet is always looming like an approaching thunderstorm, ready to release its torrent. In this regard, the protagonist and her team—though they are high-performing professionals—bring their own shortcomings to the table that adds a compelling dynamic to their encounters and interactions. Additionally, there is a realistic grit to the challenges they face, which provides severity to the situation and ‘ups the ante’ for the reader.
Science fiction has covered a lot of ground, but this plot has a unique quality to it and stands out as such, primarily the theme of the team trying to discover if Christ has appeared (in relevant physical forms) on other inhabited planets. This particular theme is indicative of the originality displayed in Avanaux.
There some touching moments, and some darker ones, ensuring that the reader will be pulled along the roiling current without being able to predict the outcome. The writing style, while not elaborate or overly descriptive, is rhythmic and vivid, with good pacing, and fits the style of the novel well all the way to the final climactic scenes.
Within the colorful setting there are of course the characters and plot. The characters are compelling, especially the protagonist Hickory Lace, who is ornamented with imperfections and bears the burden of a broken relationship with her father. This theme ebbs and flows throughout the novel, yet is always looming like an approaching thunderstorm, ready to release its torrent. In this regard, the protagonist and her team—though they are high-performing professionals—bring their own shortcomings to the table that adds a compelling dynamic to their encounters and interactions. Additionally, there is a realistic grit to the challenges they face, which provides severity to the situation and ‘ups the ante’ for the reader.
Science fiction has covered a lot of ground, but this plot has a unique quality to it and stands out as such, primarily the theme of the team trying to discover if Christ has appeared (in relevant physical forms) on other inhabited planets. This particular theme is indicative of the originality displayed in Avanaux.
There some touching moments, and some darker ones, ensuring that the reader will be pulled along the roiling current without being able to predict the outcome. The writing style, while not elaborate or overly descriptive, is rhythmic and vivid, with good pacing, and fits the style of the novel well all the way to the final climactic scenes.
August 23, 2015
Wow. Just wow.
The premise is fascinating: A newly discovered religious text convinces the Vatican to scour the Universe looking for the Son of God. Fifty years on they are starting to lose hope...
Enter Hickory, an empath with serious daddy-issues. Chosen to lead a team of specialists to investigate a religious prophet on a distant world.
And then the subplots kick in: a murder, FTL-fuel smugglers, betrayals galore, assassination plots, a violent coup, and my favorite; a really cool alien race (the Bikashi). Twists abound as the story unfolds.
It's an excellent premise, executed well and the ending is satisfying. All of the threads are resolved with plenty of setup for the coming sequel.
I was thoroughly impressed and would enjoy reading future books from this author.
Happily recommended.
The premise is fascinating: A newly discovered religious text convinces the Vatican to scour the Universe looking for the Son of God. Fifty years on they are starting to lose hope...
Enter Hickory, an empath with serious daddy-issues. Chosen to lead a team of specialists to investigate a religious prophet on a distant world.
And then the subplots kick in: a murder, FTL-fuel smugglers, betrayals galore, assassination plots, a violent coup, and my favorite; a really cool alien race (the Bikashi). Twists abound as the story unfolds.
It's an excellent premise, executed well and the ending is satisfying. All of the threads are resolved with plenty of setup for the coming sequel.
I was thoroughly impressed and would enjoy reading future books from this author.
Happily recommended.
April 26, 2016
Visit a Strange New World
I was really impressed with this book from start to finish. The author's crisp, clear writing style was truly a pleasure to read. The adventure never let up. The characters were interesting and relatable. And the world! The author really lets you see the world of Avanaux, from the strange looking people, to the odd and sometimes terrifying beasts. The science is all believable and there's enough without it being too much. The book has a satisfying conclusion, while at the same time leaving you ready for the next adventure. I can't wait to read book 2. If you like sci fi adventure with strange alien races, political intrigue, and a guy who may or may not be the messiah thrown into this fascinating mix, then you're going to really like Avanaux and you should get it today!
I was really impressed with this book from start to finish. The author's crisp, clear writing style was truly a pleasure to read. The adventure never let up. The characters were interesting and relatable. And the world! The author really lets you see the world of Avanaux, from the strange looking people, to the odd and sometimes terrifying beasts. The science is all believable and there's enough without it being too much. The book has a satisfying conclusion, while at the same time leaving you ready for the next adventure. I can't wait to read book 2. If you like sci fi adventure with strange alien races, political intrigue, and a guy who may or may not be the messiah thrown into this fascinating mix, then you're going to really like Avanaux and you should get it today!
November 13, 2018
“Alien Corps” is the first book in the “Prosperine” series which I would classify as a spiritual contemporary science fiction story; written by PJ McDermott. The audiobook was well narrated by Lisa Michelle Negron who has a few Audible titles under her belt at the time of this review. As a side note, the author has also available a prequel to this story called “Born of Fire”. The book’s main character (Hickory) is sent to a newly discovered planet so she can report back on its political association along with the availability of a precious element needed by Earth’s ships to achieve faster than light space travel. Additionally, she is assigned the role of seeking out and communicate with a spiritualist called “The Teacher” relating to a prophesy discovered long ago. Not only these, but our main character is also known for her blemished past from a previous assignment, which could affect her new assignment. If you enjoy more young adult science fiction writing style and a bit of spirituality woven in, you might find this book appealing. For me, the book was a bit fractured and flat compared to others in the genre. I’m not to say it is a bad book, but I found that it was quite different than what I had expected from its description. It was neither an amazing science fiction story nor a complete disaster. I found the story, its characters and its narration somewhat mediocre based on the number of book I have listened too. However, I would say if you enjoy YA writing style and science fiction, you might find this book appealing.
From the book’s summary description, I did not expect it to be written in a YA-style. The conversations and sentence structure were often quite simplistic and lacked a sense of depth. With the detailed world building, I felt like I was dropped into an original Star Trek series episode and I sat back to watch it unfold. However, I was hoping both the characters and story would align to take full advantage of this great world, but I did not feel they did. Many of the characters felt non-dimensional and I could not find a character that I really related too or cared for deeply. Again, this may be based on the book’s writing and story focus. I found the religious or spiritual aspects of the book an odd addition along with some questionable theological components. While I understand this is a piece of science fiction, I think the book could have done without the spiritual underpinnings and still been a good story.
I did enjoy the continued search and negotiation for this precious element as the story progressed. You can see the struggle between the relations to the planet’s inhabitants and was it more important than the resources necessary for space travel? Yet, at times there were technologies included on this distant and foreign world that are a part of our world that felt wrong to be elsewhere. For example, the GPS (global positioning system) reference that was used to track people on the planet, I felt it should have been called something else or referred to as something like our GPS. Although I will admit this was a small thing, I do remember clearly when it was used and how it pulled me from the story. There is a need for one to suspend belief while reading this story, and if you can get past that it is well laid out. I did like the superstitions of the tribal people when they met more modern-day weapons or objects and how they tried to explain them to one another.
The book’s narration by Lisa Michelle Negron was good. She was able to easily voice the multiple characters along with a few accents giving characters their own unique personalities. Some of the narration was a bit monotone or lacking inflection which the story required. The audio itself was clean and free of any artifacts I recall. The narrator’s voice was easy to understand, and the reading was at a good pace.
For parents and younger readers, take note that this book does contain vulgar language, alcohol use, some rather graphic depictions of torture, and some sexual subject matter (prostitution and innuendos) which may not be appropriate for all audiences.
In summary, although I did not find the book overly enjoyable, it was entertaining, and the world was well crafted. Most of the story lines are closed in this book, yet it is clear that there are going to be additional books in the series released. I would have liked for the author to have carry over the complexity of the world to the characters and the story itself as I believe this would have made it much more likeable. Maybe future books in the series will give us the depth and escape many of us enjoy when listening to audiobooks.
From the book’s summary description, I did not expect it to be written in a YA-style. The conversations and sentence structure were often quite simplistic and lacked a sense of depth. With the detailed world building, I felt like I was dropped into an original Star Trek series episode and I sat back to watch it unfold. However, I was hoping both the characters and story would align to take full advantage of this great world, but I did not feel they did. Many of the characters felt non-dimensional and I could not find a character that I really related too or cared for deeply. Again, this may be based on the book’s writing and story focus. I found the religious or spiritual aspects of the book an odd addition along with some questionable theological components. While I understand this is a piece of science fiction, I think the book could have done without the spiritual underpinnings and still been a good story.
I did enjoy the continued search and negotiation for this precious element as the story progressed. You can see the struggle between the relations to the planet’s inhabitants and was it more important than the resources necessary for space travel? Yet, at times there were technologies included on this distant and foreign world that are a part of our world that felt wrong to be elsewhere. For example, the GPS (global positioning system) reference that was used to track people on the planet, I felt it should have been called something else or referred to as something like our GPS. Although I will admit this was a small thing, I do remember clearly when it was used and how it pulled me from the story. There is a need for one to suspend belief while reading this story, and if you can get past that it is well laid out. I did like the superstitions of the tribal people when they met more modern-day weapons or objects and how they tried to explain them to one another.
The book’s narration by Lisa Michelle Negron was good. She was able to easily voice the multiple characters along with a few accents giving characters their own unique personalities. Some of the narration was a bit monotone or lacking inflection which the story required. The audio itself was clean and free of any artifacts I recall. The narrator’s voice was easy to understand, and the reading was at a good pace.
For parents and younger readers, take note that this book does contain vulgar language, alcohol use, some rather graphic depictions of torture, and some sexual subject matter (prostitution and innuendos) which may not be appropriate for all audiences.
In summary, although I did not find the book overly enjoyable, it was entertaining, and the world was well crafted. Most of the story lines are closed in this book, yet it is clear that there are going to be additional books in the series released. I would have liked for the author to have carry over the complexity of the world to the characters and the story itself as I believe this would have made it much more likeable. Maybe future books in the series will give us the depth and escape many of us enjoy when listening to audiobooks.
March 27, 2018
Interstellar Search for Truth.
Okay, who can not be interested in a hero named Hickory?
The Alien Corps is the beginning of a series that explores an alien world for clues to the nature of God and His relationship with all creation, across the stars. While I enjoyed the book overall, it was a slow start. There is a lot of background about the characters, the situation they and the civil authorities find themselves in, as well as the Alien Corps which is not a civil organization. Rather, it is an elite group of Vatican explorers who are tasked with sifting through other cultures for spiritual truth. This is an interesting premise. As the story evolves, you see the complexities this causes with the Earth authorities when an Alien Corps team gets caught in the crossfire.
I enjoyed being dropped into an alien culture, that didn’t appear or act as humans. The world of Prosperine is one that definitely would make for epic world building. However, if there is one fault, the search for ties with alien worlds as well as the dialogue are too on the nose. You kinda know that they find what they’ve looked for for decades soon after they land.
However, it was an interesting read.
Okay, who can not be interested in a hero named Hickory?
The Alien Corps is the beginning of a series that explores an alien world for clues to the nature of God and His relationship with all creation, across the stars. While I enjoyed the book overall, it was a slow start. There is a lot of background about the characters, the situation they and the civil authorities find themselves in, as well as the Alien Corps which is not a civil organization. Rather, it is an elite group of Vatican explorers who are tasked with sifting through other cultures for spiritual truth. This is an interesting premise. As the story evolves, you see the complexities this causes with the Earth authorities when an Alien Corps team gets caught in the crossfire.
I enjoyed being dropped into an alien culture, that didn’t appear or act as humans. The world of Prosperine is one that definitely would make for epic world building. However, if there is one fault, the search for ties with alien worlds as well as the dialogue are too on the nose. You kinda know that they find what they’ve looked for for decades soon after they land.
However, it was an interesting read.
September 7, 2021
A great take on the first contact with an alien species
Great characters and a really good storyline with a nice flow to it , even in the more mundane aspects of the story it's still grabs you like the current of a river suddenly changing to a faster more frantic pace as if approaching some white water rapids !!! But when the story gets to a more exciting part ( sorry for being so vague but I can't stand spoilers lol ) well it really does grip you and takes you on a crazy ride speeding towards a massive waterfall and you know that the bottom of the falls are both shallow and covered with sharp jagged rock's !! So yes in short it's a good read and leaves you wanting to bash your wifi router to pieces because it is not fast enough or broken down again and I'm not very patiently. ...HA who am I kidding I'm not really patient at the best of times !! The router's going to die from excessive blunt force trauma by a hammer or the nearest wall and I'm going to the closest friend's house and using their wifi instead because I just cannot wait to get stuck into the second book !!! Well waiting long enough to grab the biggest hammer I've got and then showing the router that I don't do threats but I most certainly do explain what happens when a certain set of circumstances should come to pass !!! Anyway I'm finished with the review and want to get going so get this book and enjoy it like i have and if you for some strange reason you don't enjoy it .... what on earth is wrong with you LOL ;)
Great characters and a really good storyline with a nice flow to it , even in the more mundane aspects of the story it's still grabs you like the current of a river suddenly changing to a faster more frantic pace as if approaching some white water rapids !!! But when the story gets to a more exciting part ( sorry for being so vague but I can't stand spoilers lol ) well it really does grip you and takes you on a crazy ride speeding towards a massive waterfall and you know that the bottom of the falls are both shallow and covered with sharp jagged rock's !! So yes in short it's a good read and leaves you wanting to bash your wifi router to pieces because it is not fast enough or broken down again and I'm not very patiently. ...HA who am I kidding I'm not really patient at the best of times !! The router's going to die from excessive blunt force trauma by a hammer or the nearest wall and I'm going to the closest friend's house and using their wifi instead because I just cannot wait to get stuck into the second book !!! Well waiting long enough to grab the biggest hammer I've got and then showing the router that I don't do threats but I most certainly do explain what happens when a certain set of circumstances should come to pass !!! Anyway I'm finished with the review and want to get going so get this book and enjoy it like i have and if you for some strange reason you don't enjoy it .... what on earth is wrong with you LOL ;)
June 14, 2017
Kindle Unlimited {sometimes here and there one may be through freebie day from some site}
Hickory Lace is sent to the newly-discovered planet, Prosperine, with two objectives: to assess its political stability and to report back to Earth on the activities of an alien miracle worker during the increased tension between the planetary government and a group of religious zealots is putting Earth’s stake in Prosperine’s ultra-rare crynidium deposits at risk and Hickory has to decide whether the Teacher is the one foretold in an ancient prophecy—as her superiors believe—or an anarchist responsible for the recent unrest on the planet. Other more sinster galactic forces have their eyes set on Prosperine and plan to take advantage of the chaos to seize control to get at Earth's stocks of crynidium, the liquid metal essential for interstellar travel, and plans for a galaxy-wide defense network will be in disarray.
Dust And Ashes {Prosperine Trilogy 0.5} revised/extended of previously published The Second Coming
Avanaux (Prosperine Trilogy #1)
Rise of the Erlachi (Prosperine Trilogy #2)
The Scarf: A Scifi-Fantasy Adventure (The Prosperine Trilogy Book 3)
Prosperine: The Adventures of the Space Heroine Hickory Lace: (Box Set)
Hickory Lace is sent to the newly-discovered planet, Prosperine, with two objectives: to assess its political stability and to report back to Earth on the activities of an alien miracle worker during the increased tension between the planetary government and a group of religious zealots is putting Earth’s stake in Prosperine’s ultra-rare crynidium deposits at risk and Hickory has to decide whether the Teacher is the one foretold in an ancient prophecy—as her superiors believe—or an anarchist responsible for the recent unrest on the planet. Other more sinster galactic forces have their eyes set on Prosperine and plan to take advantage of the chaos to seize control to get at Earth's stocks of crynidium, the liquid metal essential for interstellar travel, and plans for a galaxy-wide defense network will be in disarray.
Dust And Ashes {Prosperine Trilogy 0.5} revised/extended of previously published The Second Coming
Avanaux (Prosperine Trilogy #1)
Rise of the Erlachi (Prosperine Trilogy #2)
The Scarf: A Scifi-Fantasy Adventure (The Prosperine Trilogy Book 3)
Prosperine: The Adventures of the Space Heroine Hickory Lace: (Box Set)
November 1, 2022
The world has changed with the advent of space travel. The ability of humans to go beyond the boundary of our solar system. This meant the discovery of new habitable planets and new intelligent life forms that had their own beliefs and social structures. Then, found on Earth a missing scroll that some believed should have been added to the Bible because it detailed that the second coming would not be human. This caused turmoil among most of the religions of Earth, but in time, an organization was created to check out the possible claims on other worlds. This is where Hickory Lace and her subordinates Jess Parker and Gareth Blanquette come in.
I don’t know where this series is going, but from this book and the subject matter, I think space opera would fit quite nicely. The main character’s depth was good, as were the aliens, and the world-building, at times, almost had pictures in my mind’s eye. Then the surprise at the end made me smile.
The subject matter contained within this opera might be a touchy subject for some, but it is science fiction, and if you like sci-fi to push the boundaries, then this read is for you. I give this four stars out of five stars.
I don’t know where this series is going, but from this book and the subject matter, I think space opera would fit quite nicely. The main character’s depth was good, as were the aliens, and the world-building, at times, almost had pictures in my mind’s eye. Then the surprise at the end made me smile.
The subject matter contained within this opera might be a touchy subject for some, but it is science fiction, and if you like sci-fi to push the boundaries, then this read is for you. I give this four stars out of five stars.
May 2, 2018
The Alien Corps plays a circle game
I spent three days slogging through a fairly dull ARC of The Alien Corps, and what follows is an independent and voluntary review - mainly to spare others the pain of that same experience. I am still trying to figure out what this book is really about. Is it about a quasi-governmental agent who can communicate empathically with animals? Is it about a religious conflict turned civil war on a strategically important planet? Is it a spy vs spy political thriller? An action-adventure wartime story? A search for supposedly hidden Jesus-avatars from other planets? It has lots of bloody gore, backstabbing, improbably heroic fights, and repeated 'get-kidnapped-get-tortured-get-rescued' scenarios. There's a smattering of clean romance and a sidebar of dealing with daddy issues. In the end, it's all useless - the author's 'resolution' brings everything back to status quo ante. Skip this book in favor of one with more heart, a better organized plot, and more lively writing.
I spent three days slogging through a fairly dull ARC of The Alien Corps, and what follows is an independent and voluntary review - mainly to spare others the pain of that same experience. I am still trying to figure out what this book is really about. Is it about a quasi-governmental agent who can communicate empathically with animals? Is it about a religious conflict turned civil war on a strategically important planet? Is it a spy vs spy political thriller? An action-adventure wartime story? A search for supposedly hidden Jesus-avatars from other planets? It has lots of bloody gore, backstabbing, improbably heroic fights, and repeated 'get-kidnapped-get-tortured-get-rescued' scenarios. There's a smattering of clean romance and a sidebar of dealing with daddy issues. In the end, it's all useless - the author's 'resolution' brings everything back to status quo ante. Skip this book in favor of one with more heart, a better organized plot, and more lively writing.
December 9, 2018
Not the Sun, but the Son!
In the 20th and 21st centuries, control of oil is paramount, a cause for global manipulation and conflict. In author PJ McDermott's future, not anti-matter but a rare metal called crynidium is the ultimate power source. But the planet on which a large supply has been located remains too primitive for full contact with the allied species of space so negotiations are delicate. Meanwhile, the non-aligned species have fewer qualms about interfering with such a large prize in the offing; there is unrest within the planetary government; and religious "enlightenment" is in conflict with the established worship. Might this be a parallel to the Christian movement on earth? Hickory Lace, sent to investigate, has to balance all these facts and factions while remaining anonymous. Narration by Lia Michelle Negron helps bring to life the action, adventure and suspense although I fear for the main characters' future brains based on the number of disabling head blows received. Several intriguing aspects of species development are explored.
In the 20th and 21st centuries, control of oil is paramount, a cause for global manipulation and conflict. In author PJ McDermott's future, not anti-matter but a rare metal called crynidium is the ultimate power source. But the planet on which a large supply has been located remains too primitive for full contact with the allied species of space so negotiations are delicate. Meanwhile, the non-aligned species have fewer qualms about interfering with such a large prize in the offing; there is unrest within the planetary government; and religious "enlightenment" is in conflict with the established worship. Might this be a parallel to the Christian movement on earth? Hickory Lace, sent to investigate, has to balance all these facts and factions while remaining anonymous. Narration by Lia Michelle Negron helps bring to life the action, adventure and suspense although I fear for the main characters' future brains based on the number of disabling head blows received. Several intriguing aspects of species development are explored.
February 1, 2024
Full review: https://girlswithguns.org/alien-corps...
It feels as if every member of the Alien Corps ends up both captured by, and then escaping from the Pharlaxians, the religious reactionaries leading the revolt, with Bikashi help. I’d have a word about their security protocols, if I were their leader. The religious elements are not overpowering, and there is a lack of resolution which is a bit unsatisfying: we never reach a conclusion as to Kar-sèr-Sephiryth’s divine status. Still it’s kinda brave even to suggest the concept that the second coming of Jesus Christ could be as an alien. The ending feels like Hickory and allies are heading off on another mission: however, naming the series after the planet suggests they’re not going anywhere. Nor are Hickory’s Daddy issues. It may be a somewhat optimistic take on first contact, yet was thoughtful enough to make for a satisfactory read.
It feels as if every member of the Alien Corps ends up both captured by, and then escaping from the Pharlaxians, the religious reactionaries leading the revolt, with Bikashi help. I’d have a word about their security protocols, if I were their leader. The religious elements are not overpowering, and there is a lack of resolution which is a bit unsatisfying: we never reach a conclusion as to Kar-sèr-Sephiryth’s divine status. Still it’s kinda brave even to suggest the concept that the second coming of Jesus Christ could be as an alien. The ending feels like Hickory and allies are heading off on another mission: however, naming the series after the planet suggests they’re not going anywhere. Nor are Hickory’s Daddy issues. It may be a somewhat optimistic take on first contact, yet was thoughtful enough to make for a satisfactory read.
May 4, 2018
Initially you would find it hard to get into the story but gradually you would find yourself totally hooked to it and unable to get out easily unless you finish it. We all are curious about religion, politics and future and the author has blended all the elements successfully together resulting in a good thriller, suspense, twist and turns making it hard to put it down once you have started it.
Weaving words for the possible future and including religion and politics into it, is itself a tough job and I think author had done a good job in taking this challenge and making it fun to read for his readers.
Though at times there were slight deviation from the expectation and the flow of events and characters but overall a good read and definitely a must if you are a Sci-Fi fan.
Weaving words for the possible future and including religion and politics into it, is itself a tough job and I think author had done a good job in taking this challenge and making it fun to read for his readers.
Though at times there were slight deviation from the expectation and the flow of events and characters but overall a good read and definitely a must if you are a Sci-Fi fan.
August 7, 2019
Hickory Lace was stripped of her command position, but after many years is given a chance to redeem herself. With her friends, Jess and Gareth, she is sent to Prosperine to investigate an alien known as the Teacher.
Wow, I wasn't sure about this book at first, but once I started reading I couldn't put it down. Action packed, and alien political intrigue. Fascinating read with unique and well written characters.
I am voluntarily leaving an honest and non-incentivized review of this book.
Wow, I wasn't sure about this book at first, but once I started reading I couldn't put it down. Action packed, and alien political intrigue. Fascinating read with unique and well written characters.
I am voluntarily leaving an honest and non-incentivized review of this book.
November 14, 2021
Simple planet, high tech resource, conflict eminent!
Hickory is an empath tasked with searching for the next Son of God, or proving that her target is a fraud. Avanaux is a simple planet populated by an avian species. The Teacher is credited with many miracles, and is targeted by an extremist religious leader. Will Hickory be able to question the Teacher before he is killed? Can she prevent the hostile takeover of the planet? Good questions.
I received a no cost copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Hickory is an empath tasked with searching for the next Son of God, or proving that her target is a fraud. Avanaux is a simple planet populated by an avian species. The Teacher is credited with many miracles, and is targeted by an extremist religious leader. Will Hickory be able to question the Teacher before he is killed? Can she prevent the hostile takeover of the planet? Good questions.
I received a no cost copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
May 1, 2018
This is a interesting SciFi/Religious book to read. It is about a empath (Hickory) chosen to lead a team on a distant world and the trials & tribulations, they all go through. What you will find in this book is: aliens, drama, intrigue, suspense, mystery, adventure, action, political intrigue, twists & turns, murder, violence, fuel smugglers and betrayal. The story-line and plot is well-thought out and is exceptionally well-written. The characters are well developed with personalities.
February 25, 2020
The take on this story is a group of religious based space-farers searching out potential Messiahs based on a prophecy. An alien "Jesus" being tested to see if the person stands up to the prophecy or falls short in some way. A surprising amount of sensitivity by the author and characters to religious tradition, while still providing lots of intrigue and science. While the story and idea is interesting, I didn't find the characters engaging enough to care to read any of the sequels.
August 9, 2020
Enjoyable alien contact
I enjoyed the book and the characters. Is the Teacher really the son of God? There were lots of twists and turns, which made the story more interesting. I wondered why Hickory didn't use her powers on the aliens when she was in danger. Perhaps that will be explained In another book in the series.
I enjoyed the book and the characters. Is the Teacher really the son of God? There were lots of twists and turns, which made the story more interesting. I wondered why Hickory didn't use her powers on the aliens when she was in danger. Perhaps that will be explained In another book in the series.
August 12, 2020
A very enjoyable read. Our heroine has a difficult past due mostly to circumstances beyond her control. She is sent to investigate an alien world with a very Christ-like character. There are some true miracles which occur, giving more credence to his aura.
There is a major battle between good and evil. So intrigue, action and an interesting collection of characters.
There is a major battle between good and evil. So intrigue, action and an interesting collection of characters.
May 9, 2021
(Not convinced by the cover)
There are 2 story-lines - Is the Teacher a second coming of Christ? and Interplanetary politics.
The book leaves the second coming as an open question probably taken further in the other books. The politics is taken further as two advanced planets try to (make the best deals with)/(take control of) the locals.
Chapter 8 was a shock!
There are 2 story-lines - Is the Teacher a second coming of Christ? and Interplanetary politics.
The book leaves the second coming as an open question probably taken further in the other books. The politics is taken further as two advanced planets try to (make the best deals with)/(take control of) the locals.
Chapter 8 was a shock!
September 5, 2017
Great Sy-Fy , Characters, and Action
This is like a full blown outer space adventure. Well described characters and a nicely paced story that has a nice flow to it.
I read it straight thru cover to cover.
This is like a full blown outer space adventure. Well described characters and a nicely paced story that has a nice flow to it.
I read it straight thru cover to cover.
May 2, 2018
From start to finish, chock full of really interesting characters doing really dangerous stuff, this story was fabulous. The twists made it difficult to put down. Dinner time was an annoyance. Loved it!
December 3, 2019
Tits front and centre
Quite an unusual story with plot getting weirder as it progresses . It all comes together although takes a long time to reach a climax. Excellent story even if the whole plot only has big action at the end.
Quite an unusual story with plot getting weirder as it progresses . It all comes together although takes a long time to reach a climax. Excellent story even if the whole plot only has big action at the end.
December 13, 2019
It was an interesting SYFY. This is the first time in quite a while that have read one. I liked the development of the characters along with the storyline. I would recommend this book but I don’t know anyone who reads SYFY.
February 17, 2023
Great
I feel this is one of the best reads I've had in a long while. I am looking forward o to the next in the series. Excellent characters and a great plot. Fast paced and good plot.
I feel this is one of the best reads I've had in a long while. I am looking forward o to the next in the series. Excellent characters and a great plot. Fast paced and good plot.
November 26, 2018
Once again I have found a good book in this story. I found it hard to put it down until the end.
May 23, 2020
Interesting characters and interesting alien critters.
I would read the next one in the series.
I would read the next one in the series.
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