This was a compelling read, a decent young adult series. I really need to read the first book to help me understand a few things about the universe it takes place in, and I would recommend anyone else starting at the beginning too. But other than than it seemed to be fairly well done and it is a very fast paced book, keeping one constantly turning the pages to see what happens next. ( )

This is a very fun and thrilling science fiction story set in an intriguing universe. Plenty of action and surprises with many great characters. Highly recommended!

[Note: this book was provided to me by the publisher as a LibraryThing early reviewer.] ( )

If you like a good blend of pure science fiction and fantasy, then this is a book you must read. It involves multiple governments, several planetary systems, alliances, super creepy creatures, humans with special talents, the usual blend of human frailties such as injustice, greed, power struggles, prejudice, and unfair treatment. Yet there is plenty of good character qualities on display as well. Such traits as rising above your circumstances and poverty, leadership qualities, good intuition, team work, testing your mettle, and much more are part of the story that brings out the best we wish to read in our heroes.

The book starts out a little slowly as it sets up the main characters and their backgrounds. Once we get to know these men better, the action intensifies considerably until we are sitting on the edge of the seat, gripping tightly while the suspense and action build. The author is creative in developing twists and turns in the plot.

There are two sets of heroes. Logan is from another world in a planetary system within the Human Assembly. He has just graduated from the military academy with honors and was about to be commissioned to his first assignment. He volunteered and requested what appeared to be an impossible assignment. It looked to General Brodwyn like a suicide mission. Yet she agreed because she had no choice. The general gave them three weeks to accomplish their task.

The second set of heroes are Dillon and Sean living on Earth. They are twins gifted with special abilities. They are considered Adepts. Dillon loves the military and a physical challenge. Sean is more comfortable in the diplomat role, but has been gifted with the ability to create unique plans and to foresee consequences. He was attending a diplomatic academy when the twins were called by the Messengers to complete a rescue. This one small event set in motion a series of problems that eventually affect the entire Assembly.

The action in this book is tight, precise, military and filled with suspense. Yet I consider this a clean and wholesome read. I never missed the overwhelming darkness, hopelessness, meanness and lack of soul you often find in today's contemporary sci fi and fantasy. Evil is evil and needs to be conquored. I thoroughly loved reading it. I believe this is the second book in a series. The first book is only referred to concerning some action meant as background to set up for this new premise. However, the book stands very well on its own. I am looking forward to reading other books by this author.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Librarything on behalf of Baker Publishing. I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." ( )

Sadly, this is a book that I tried multiple times to read. I don't know if it was the style of book, or the fact that I've not read any other books like this before, but I could not finish reading this book. However, I still encourage others to read it, simply because it may be one that you thouroughly enjoy. ( )

Renegades, now that’s my kind of science fiction action drama! I finished the book last night. While it’s only 289 pages long, you better hang on as it has an action-packed series of chapters in the second half of the book. The author, Thomas Locke, clearly knows how to keep his readers entertained.

The beginning of the book was a little confusing as Locke alternated the chapters between two distinct groups of characters. I couldn’t figure out who these characters were, or what the connection between them was. That became evident halfway through the book.

It wasn’t total confusion. However. By the time you complete reading the first few chapters, you’ve already figured out who the main characters are in each of the two disparate character groups. My transition to character recognition probably would have been faster had I read the first book in this series, Recruits.

The plot resolves itself when the two groups start focusing on the same enemy. That is also the point at which the action sci-fi engages its warp drive.

If you like fast-action quick-reading science fiction, Renegades by Thomas Locke is a book you’ll want to read. I know that my rating of the book is higher than its literary content may justify, but for me, fast action sci-fi is enjoyable escapist reading. Therefore, it’s a 5-star book. ( )