The Combat Codes

By: Alexander Darwin

Narrated by: Donald Chang

In a world where battle-hardened warriors determine the fate of empires, war-ravaged nations seek out a new champion in the first book of a thrilling science fantasy trilogy: "that rare book that fully satisfies me as an action fan" (Fonda Lee, author of Jade City).​

In a world long ago ravaged by war, the nations have sworn an armistice never to use weapons of mass destruction again. Instead, highly-skilled warriors known as Grievar Knights represent their nations’ interests in brutal hand-to-hand combat.

Murray Pearson was once a famed Knight until he suffered a loss that crippled his homeland — but now he’s on the hunt to discover the next champion.

In underground and ruthless combat rings, an orphaned boy called Cego is making a name for himself. Murray believes Cego has what it takes to thrive in the world's most prestigious combat academy – but first, Cego must prove himself in the vicious arenas of the underworld. And survival isn’t guaranteed.

“A brutal and relentless science fantasy martial arts extravaganza, set in a world where the fate of nations rests on the perfect counterpunch or rear naked choke. The Combat Codes is that rare book that fully satisfies me as an action fan.” -- Fonda Lee, author of Jade City

Critic reviews

“A brutal and relentless science fantasy martial arts extravaganza, set in a world where the fate of nations rests on the perfect counterpunch or rear naked choke. The Combat Codes is that rare book that fully satisfies me as an action fan.” —Fonda Lee, author of Jade City

"This book kicks ass--literally and literarily!" —Richard Swan, author of The Justice of Kings

"The Combat Codes is a well-paced sci-fi brimming with action, brutality, thoughtfulness and heart. From ruthless underworld to storm-harried, glistening academy, every fight is clear and visceral, and I couldn’t help but be ensnared by the mystery and tension woven throughout. I can’t wait for the next chapter in Cego’s journey!"—H.M. Long, author of Hall of Smoke

"If Mike Tyson wrote a scifi novel (and could write like he threw a right hook) it would read a little like The Combat Codes. Bare-knuckle brilliance."—Jackson Ford author of The Girl Who Could Move Sh*t With Her Mind

"The Combat Codes is a perfectly balanced cocktail of high-octane action, enthralling mystery, and genuine heart. Fans of Geralt and Ciri or the Hound and Arya will adore the dynamic between Murray and Cego, and fans of badass fight scenes will find plenty to love in these pages.

A gritty, fully-realized world sets the stage for lovable (and hateable) characters, heart-pounding action, and twists that literally had my jaw dropping. Readers won't want to miss this one!"
—M. J. Kuhn, author of Among Thieves

"The Combat Codes is a great read for any fan of realistic martial arts fiction. The integration of a compelling sci-fi / fantasy plot and true-to-life martial arts action make for a unique story that any student of warfare is sure to enjoy."
—Ryan Hall, UFC Fighter

"The Combat Codes was a fantastic read that takes you along the martial arts path of self-discovery. The storyline, training, fights and philosophy in the book made it highly enjoyable. Whether you are a martial artist, fan, or just an SFF reader, this book will be a lot of fun." —Kenny Florian, MMA Commentator & Ex-UFC Fighter

Simply awesome

If you are thinking about getting this or were on the fence just go for it. It is phenomenal. Alexander Darwin does a great job building his world and his characters. There is intrigue, friendship, overcoming of obstacles, mechs, a come out of retirement fight, a colorful memorable cast, rivalries aplenty and an immersive simulation. The action is great the overall premise is fascinating and it's a fun ride along the way.

Definitely excited for additional books in the series.

Donald Chang is a fantastic narrator and I cannot wait to listen to more of his work. He has a great variety of voices and his displays of emotion are authentic and have great depth and range.

More of all of this please and thank you!!

Can't wait to get into book 2 and am very pleased to see book 3 is on preorder!!

Goated

Re listening to the whole series working my way back up to book 3 :D Can’t wait!

Highly entertaining. Leaves you wanting more!

The author creates a marvelous mystical world in perfect detail that grounds the reader with interesting characters and relationships too. Great to see there is more to come in the author’s pipeline of continuing stories - can’t wait to read what’s next!

This needs to become a live action! Or anime!!!

This book had me repping out an extra set at the gym! Looking forward to the next book!

Martial Artists will love this one

As a martial artist, I really enjoyed this book. The author understands several things about martial arts, from breathing techniques to the brutality of a fight.

The science fiction/fantasy world is somewhat complex to understand, but very entertaining, and it all relates to a race bred to fight. Although the entire book seems like an introduction to something bigger, without clear antagonists or major stakes, anyone who enjoys action and is curious about martial arts would enjoy it.

Let's move on to Part 2.