Orphan's Test

Core Empire Series, Book 1

De: Richard Coxson

Narrado por: Derek Shoales

"To pass the Test of Heirs, you must prove your worthiness and understanding of what it means to rule."

For nearly one thousand years, the Core Empire has held together thousands of star systems and billions of citizens. But a coup attempt has broken the empire into pieces. Some planets and systems have survived and still have law and order. Others have fallen to barbarism and piracy. For young Hugh Cascade, this is but a history lesson, even if the nightmares of kinetic weapons exploding have followed him through most of his childhood.

Ten years later, the war finds Hugh, now a military cadet. Under the gentle guidance of Marine Sgt. Major Ward, Hugh has grown into a strong—and headstrong—young man. But the truth has never been shared with him: Hugh Cascade is an heir to the throne, perhaps the last, and the traitors will do anything to eliminate him.

Before they can, Hugh must make the decision of a lifetime: To take the Test of Heirs to prove his worthiness to rule an empire . . . or die trying.

The first in an exciting new trilogy, Orphan's Test is classic science fiction at its best.

Contains mature themes.

©2021 Richard Coxson (P)2022 Tantor

Good Story

Look forward to sequels. Didn’t think I would like the story, but got sucked in

Stuck in Neutral...

So yeah... It is mostly a book for young adults: Hidden lost prince who suddenly realizes his fate that has been hidden all this time, and how he must rely on the sage advice from older, wiser adults... the tropes go on.

And that is not a bad thing if you are new to the genre. Or if you are 12. I guess I thought it would be more.

I found myself angry on the MCs behalf for being lied to all his life and essentially playing a marionette to those very same wise and sage adults who know what is best for him. Just annoying. And as a former military man myself, I find it almost painful to hear the stereotypes on display. The story doesn't seem to go anywhere, and the characters are shallow and entirely one dimensional. I keep waiting for the tale or plot to shift gears on me, but it seems to be stuck in neutral.

Overall, it is fantasy, and I can suspend belief and listen to the story. I just didn't enjoy doing so.