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Age of Expansion: Shadow Vanguard #1
Gravity Storm
Don’t dump the cargo - I paid for it fair and square with money I stole!
And so begins the saga of Jack Marber, former Special Assault Marine and his alien band of traders as they cross the galaxy doing the only job that doesn’t leave them homeless.
“I need eyes and ears in every system that would benefit the Federation. One way to do that is for the Free Traders of this universe to work for me…” Nathan Lowell
Nathan has a mission and is willing to pay handsomely for Jack’s time. If only Jack will represent the Federation that kicked him out of the service for what was Jack’s fault.
He’s not sure they should trust him, although he likes it.
His two-legged Yollin partner is trying to learn the English side of the Galactic Common language, but that doesn’t always work out so well.
Adina is a member who Nathan wants on the team. No one is sure of her, not even Adina.
A storm is rising and the misfits of the Fortitude have no choice but to fight it.
--- PLEASE NOTE ---
If cursing is a problem, then this might not be for you.
- GenresScience FictionAliens
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2018
307 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 25, 2022
Fun read! Action packed! 3.5 stars
February 21, 2018
No surprises but fun
I was surprised that this book was readable. I wanted a fun not serious read. This is what I got.
When I read the title was part of the Kutherian universe, I vaguely recalled a series that left me queasy. Instead of bad feelings from the book, I got a series that included aliens and wasn't too offensive.
The characters are more or less as complete or incomplete as the characters in Marvel TV shows. For a pleasant read that lacks a lot of detail about the galactic political status and relative military standing, it moves along at a steady pace.
The plot was no surprise but the writing was OK. The original series was weird but this book was OK. I'm going to read the next. I'm crossing fingers that it will be as nice as this one.
I was surprised that this book was readable. I wanted a fun not serious read. This is what I got.
When I read the title was part of the Kutherian universe, I vaguely recalled a series that left me queasy. Instead of bad feelings from the book, I got a series that included aliens and wasn't too offensive.
The characters are more or less as complete or incomplete as the characters in Marvel TV shows. For a pleasant read that lacks a lot of detail about the galactic political status and relative military standing, it moves along at a steady pace.
The plot was no surprise but the writing was OK. The original series was weird but this book was OK. I'm going to read the next. I'm crossing fingers that it will be as nice as this one.
April 28, 2022
From the very first paragraph I was hooked on to this funny, witty, droll, exciting story.
Tom Dublin is a new author to me, even as a nom de plume to his 'real' name, 'Tommy Donbavand' , a children's author of renown, and so I wasn't sure what I'd be getting.
What I did get, was a wonderful story with a mixed bag of characters that end up working as spies for the Etheric Empire, with Nathan as their touch point, and who, from the second they arrive at their destination, are thrown into a crazy race against time, to save the planet, Malatia.
I loved the characters immediately, especially Tc'aarlat, a Yollin who, with his special Hawk, Mist, and his habit of getting English phrasing so very wrong, had me almost wetting myself with laughter.
Then we have Captain Jack Marber, Tc'aarlat's business partner, and co-pilot, who isn't quite as tough as he used to be, and loves to hate Mist.
These two start out with another partner, who totally surprises them - and not in a good way - and so, when they are offered the job as spies, are given another partner, Adina Choudhury, who is rather more than she seems.
These intrepid, though somewhat clueless, spies, are wonderful because they're not exactly James Bond types - in fact, Tc'aarlat reminds me strongly of Mr Bean, playing James Bond! Lol
I love that they fit together fairly quickly in their new team and, despite Tc'aarlat's help, managed to solve the problems they faced when arriving on planet - mind you, that has a lot to do with the E. I., Solo!
Oh, and don't get me started on Solo! What a hoot! Lol
As you might guess, I did really love this book, and am very much looking forwards to reading the rest of the series but, looking at my reading list, it seems I'm going back to the Vigilante Chronicles, to book 6: Defender - yay, it's Barnabas again! Lol
Seriously, I am very much looking forwards to reading the other books in the Shadow Vanguard series, but still love to read all the other series, too!
Talk about spoilt for choice!
Tom Dublin is a new author to me, even as a nom de plume to his 'real' name, 'Tommy Donbavand' , a children's author of renown, and so I wasn't sure what I'd be getting.
What I did get, was a wonderful story with a mixed bag of characters that end up working as spies for the Etheric Empire, with Nathan as their touch point, and who, from the second they arrive at their destination, are thrown into a crazy race against time, to save the planet, Malatia.
I loved the characters immediately, especially Tc'aarlat, a Yollin who, with his special Hawk, Mist, and his habit of getting English phrasing so very wrong, had me almost wetting myself with laughter.
Then we have Captain Jack Marber, Tc'aarlat's business partner, and co-pilot, who isn't quite as tough as he used to be, and loves to hate Mist.
These two start out with another partner, who totally surprises them - and not in a good way - and so, when they are offered the job as spies, are given another partner, Adina Choudhury, who is rather more than she seems.
These intrepid, though somewhat clueless, spies, are wonderful because they're not exactly James Bond types - in fact, Tc'aarlat reminds me strongly of Mr Bean, playing James Bond! Lol
I love that they fit together fairly quickly in their new team and, despite Tc'aarlat's help, managed to solve the problems they faced when arriving on planet - mind you, that has a lot to do with the E. I., Solo!
Oh, and don't get me started on Solo! What a hoot! Lol
As you might guess, I did really love this book, and am very much looking forwards to reading the rest of the series but, looking at my reading list, it seems I'm going back to the Vigilante Chronicles, to book 6: Defender - yay, it's Barnabas again! Lol
Seriously, I am very much looking forwards to reading the other books in the Shadow Vanguard series, but still love to read all the other series, too!
Talk about spoilt for choice!
August 25, 2020
Another new incredible addition to the KGU
I am very excited about this new series, and I love the slightly different tone and voice that Tom brings. One of the characters insulted another with a term (no spoiler) that caused my wife and I to laugh uncontrollably for several minutes. I physically hurt myself laughing.
The author's personal story is incredibly inspiring to me for reasons that don't need going into, but what an amazing man, and incredibly talented writer. This book was published a few years ago, but I sincerely hope he is in good health, and I can't wait to keep reading this new (to me, going in "chronological" order, according to the timeline,) series.
Highly Recommended, and happy reading!
I am very excited about this new series, and I love the slightly different tone and voice that Tom brings. One of the characters insulted another with a term (no spoiler) that caused my wife and I to laugh uncontrollably for several minutes. I physically hurt myself laughing.
The author's personal story is incredibly inspiring to me for reasons that don't need going into, but what an amazing man, and incredibly talented writer. This book was published a few years ago, but I sincerely hope he is in good health, and I can't wait to keep reading this new (to me, going in "chronological" order, according to the timeline,) series.
Highly Recommended, and happy reading!
April 2, 2018
Reminds me a bit ...
Of Ghost Squadron. Different mission of course, but they are flying incognito in a trashy looking hauler...not sexy, but it's all the new toys inside that matter. When I made the note about Shadow Corp and Justin, that was BEFORE the author notes, then saw Craig was involved, I had visions of the Kurtherian and Seppukarian Universe crashing together becoming one big dysfunctional universe.....like ours! Liked the story and it's authors dedication to making it happen. Stay strong now you belong to a huge family!
Of Ghost Squadron. Different mission of course, but they are flying incognito in a trashy looking hauler...not sexy, but it's all the new toys inside that matter. When I made the note about Shadow Corp and Justin, that was BEFORE the author notes, then saw Craig was involved, I had visions of the Kurtherian and Seppukarian Universe crashing together becoming one big dysfunctional universe.....like ours! Liked the story and it's authors dedication to making it happen. Stay strong now you belong to a huge family!
January 26, 2021
I wasn’t sure what I was going to get with this story but was looking for a quick fun read and it did not disappoint. The interaction of the characters with their barbs and the constant misinterpreted quotes Tc'aarlat made for funny moments that made me laugh and brought back moments of my experiences with several non English speaking friends and their attempts to use similar quotes which they could not quite get their heads wrapped around. This was definitely a quick fun read and I’m looking forward to the next round.
September 25, 2025
Excellent
As usual for books within the universe of The Kurtherian Gambit, this one is excellent.
This book was not eligible for a bonus star, as it only has chapter numbers, not titles.
As is my habit when reviewing fiction, I note without affecting my rating if the average chapter length for the book fits within my preferred length of taking me about 10-15 minutes to read. This one is a bit longer, just enough that I don't feel that I can use the fudge factor of the "about" to capture it.
As usual for books within the universe of The Kurtherian Gambit, this one is excellent.
This book was not eligible for a bonus star, as it only has chapter numbers, not titles.
As is my habit when reviewing fiction, I note without affecting my rating if the average chapter length for the book fits within my preferred length of taking me about 10-15 minutes to read. This one is a bit longer, just enough that I don't feel that I can use the fudge factor of the "about" to capture it.
May 7, 2018
A somewhat violent introduction...
This is somewhat more grisly than other series within the Kurtherian Universe, but not so bad that I put up the book (I'm not into horror/psycho thrillers/ extreme violence). It was fun and quite the experience getting to know the new characters, and delightful meeting the Malaysians. Michael's ability to reach out to other authors (and not yet authors) and integrate their stories with the Kurtherian Universe is nothing short of miraculous!
This is somewhat more grisly than other series within the Kurtherian Universe, but not so bad that I put up the book (I'm not into horror/psycho thrillers/ extreme violence). It was fun and quite the experience getting to know the new characters, and delightful meeting the Malaysians. Michael's ability to reach out to other authors (and not yet authors) and integrate their stories with the Kurtherian Universe is nothing short of miraculous!
October 6, 2019
Excellent
Love the direction this story goes in there’s comedy from a yollin fear from a werewolf and the human is the anchor oh and don’t forget total chaos from the lovely teal people going from loving some to absolutely hating others. To me that’s the key to a great story and author- love, hate or any emotion in between for the characters you read about can’t wait for the next book
Love the direction this story goes in there’s comedy from a yollin fear from a werewolf and the human is the anchor oh and don’t forget total chaos from the lovely teal people going from loving some to absolutely hating others. To me that’s the key to a great story and author- love, hate or any emotion in between for the characters you read about can’t wait for the next book
February 13, 2018
LAUGH OUT LOUD FUN!
Great addition to the Kurtherian Gambit Universe. Lots of action and laugh out loud dialog. Characters you can't help but love. And the EI Solo is unique and special. This book grabbed me from the first pages and didn't let go until I had finished reading the author's notes at the end. Can't wait until the next book.
Great addition to the Kurtherian Gambit Universe. Lots of action and laugh out loud dialog. Characters you can't help but love. And the EI Solo is unique and special. This book grabbed me from the first pages and didn't let go until I had finished reading the author's notes at the end. Can't wait until the next book.
February 18, 2018
Fun
This book had a lot of things that I liked in the original series. I did notice a couple of issues though. Luckily they were quite minor. For one John Grimes was not one of the original two Rangers. Barnabas and Tabitha were the first two Rangers. But like I said, it’s minor stuff that didn’t affect the story
I can’t wait for book 2.
This book had a lot of things that I liked in the original series. I did notice a couple of issues though. Luckily they were quite minor. For one John Grimes was not one of the original two Rangers. Barnabas and Tabitha were the first two Rangers. But like I said, it’s minor stuff that didn’t affect the story
I can’t wait for book 2.
June 6, 2018
Shadow is a good name for this motley Crew.
Take a ex- military human who shafted his military career, a Yolin, a reluctant werewolf, a new EI called Solo and you get a crew which fights like families do. Things do work out though in a very satisfying manner. This book is part of the Kurtherian Universe and it fits just like a glove. Can't wait until the next book is out.
Take a ex- military human who shafted his military career, a Yolin, a reluctant werewolf, a new EI called Solo and you get a crew which fights like families do. Things do work out though in a very satisfying manner. This book is part of the Kurtherian Universe and it fits just like a glove. Can't wait until the next book is out.
February 20, 2018
Love
Great addition to the Kurtherian Gambit series, thanks Michael for bringing Tom onboard. I look forward to reading more. I will definitely look up some of Toms past work for my Granddaughters, they are the perfect age.
Great addition to the Kurtherian Gambit series, thanks Michael for bringing Tom onboard. I look forward to reading more. I will definitely look up some of Toms past work for my Granddaughters, they are the perfect age.
February 20, 2018
Enjoyable New Addition
The author used his expertise to write an excellent addition to the Kutherian Universe. It took a few pages to bring all the threads together, but the result is a book that brought his characters to life. I’m looking forward to more.
The author used his expertise to write an excellent addition to the Kutherian Universe. It took a few pages to bring all the threads together, but the result is a book that brought his characters to life. I’m looking forward to more.
February 28, 2018
Very good reading!
Three stars instead of five because of the “Finis” at the end: ostentatious for b grade pulp. I like b grade pulp but “the end” is appropriate. Fun characters, good action and all in all, a good read.
Three stars instead of five because of the “Finis” at the end: ostentatious for b grade pulp. I like b grade pulp but “the end” is appropriate. Fun characters, good action and all in all, a good read.
April 21, 2018
Fantastic story
This is a fantastic story from a new author to this series but has written for the Dr. Who series. So the gentleman has some serious writing chops. Can’t wait to see what else he will come up with.
This is a fantastic story from a new author to this series but has written for the Dr. Who series. So the gentleman has some serious writing chops. Can’t wait to see what else he will come up with.
April 29, 2018
Great book.
This is a verified purchase. It is a good sci-fi and follows what I expect from the Kutherian Gambit authors. Very believable characters, lots of action and well written can't wait for the next book.
This is a verified purchase. It is a good sci-fi and follows what I expect from the Kutherian Gambit authors. Very believable characters, lots of action and well written can't wait for the next book.
June 12, 2018
Fun addition to the KGU
This book was really good. I love the main characters and the storyline kept my attention through our the entire book. Some of the parts had me laughing out loud and some had me tearing up. I am so looking forward to reading all of the books by Tom Dublin.
This book was really good. I love the main characters and the storyline kept my attention through our the entire book. Some of the parts had me laughing out loud and some had me tearing up. I am so looking forward to reading all of the books by Tom Dublin.
July 1, 2018
A great start
I enjoyed reading this book. As we start a new thread with new characters it is always interesting how the author weaves together their back story with the current story. This new thread seems to be a very promising one. Filled with lots of twists and action!
I enjoyed reading this book. As we start a new thread with new characters it is always interesting how the author weaves together their back story with the current story. This new thread seems to be a very promising one. Filled with lots of twists and action!
May 7, 2021
Still have it 5 stars although
This one had a different feel to it than Michael's other works. I'm not sure what is different but something is. Didn't feel as well put together as his others I think.
This one had a different feel to it than Michael's other works. I'm not sure what is different but something is. Didn't feel as well put together as his others I think.
February 14, 2018
Great
The story was great and much funnier than I expected. It fits right in with the rest of The Kurtherian Gambit series.
The story was great and much funnier than I expected. It fits right in with the rest of The Kurtherian Gambit series.
February 14, 2018
Great start
Looking forward to new chapters in this arm of the series. Thanks Tommy for coming to play in the KU so we can read more of Jack and friends
Looking forward to new chapters in this arm of the series. Thanks Tommy for coming to play in the KU so we can read more of Jack and friends
February 14, 2018
Love it!!
Great first book in a hopefully loooong series. Love the characters and the miss quotes remind me of Ziva on NCIS!! Can’t wait to see what these 4 get into next!!!
Great first book in a hopefully loooong series. Love the characters and the miss quotes remind me of Ziva on NCIS!! Can’t wait to see what these 4 get into next!!!
February 20, 2018
Really liked the story
There is lots of excitement and energy in this story. So far the chemistry between the three is great. I want Edina to embrace her inner werewolf.
There is lots of excitement and energy in this story. So far the chemistry between the three is great. I want Edina to embrace her inner werewolf.
March 8, 2018
Excellent first effort
Great addition to the stable of writers in the Kutherian world. Good characters and strong story. Looking forward to more.
Great addition to the stable of writers in the Kutherian world. Good characters and strong story. Looking forward to more.
January 28, 2019
New Author
Wow l Great new series, characters! Looking forward to more! I love all of the authors I have read so far.
Wow l Great new series, characters! Looking forward to more! I love all of the authors I have read so far.
March 31, 2019
Good new addition to the Kurtherian universe
Took me a little while to get into the characters but now can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Took me a little while to get into the characters but now can’t wait for the next book in the series.
October 16, 2019
Another gripping series.
Congratulations Tommy, wonderful start to the "Age of Expansion". Can't wait for the next installment. Griping ,funny,exciting and a little irreverent.
Congratulations Tommy, wonderful start to the "Age of Expansion". Can't wait for the next installment. Griping ,funny,exciting and a little irreverent.
October 13, 2021
Great story and funny as well.
November 22, 2021
A very good book to read!
I like the spinoff series with Nathan.
Wish I knew the timeline from the first series in years and where Michael, Barnabee and the others are!
I like the spinoff series with Nathan.
Wish I knew the timeline from the first series in years and where Michael, Barnabee and the others are!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews