Title: Empire
Author: Michael R. Hicks
First published March 23, 2009
310 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781442123830 (ISBN10: 1442123834)
Rating: 4.08
Overview
Empire, the first book in a thrilling futuristic fantasy trilogy, follows the journey of Reza Gard, a young boy from the Human Confederation who gets embroiled in a century-long war with the alien Kreelan Empire. The Kreelans are fierce female warriors with blue skin, razor-sharp talons, and a fierce loyalty to their god-like Empress.
Despite being technologically advanced, the Kreelans still prefer close combat with swords and claws. When Reza gets captured and enslaved, he must adapt to the brutal Kreelan way of life.
As he endures the harsh conditions, he forms an unlikely bond with a young warrior named Esah-Zhurah. Together, they unravel a prophecy that foretold their fate and discover that the key to breaking a centuries-old curse lies in the hands of a human.
Publisher’s note: This book is the first part of the original novel IN HER NAME (ISBN 978-0615208534), which is now available as the omnibus edition containing EMPIRE, CONFEDERATION, and FINAL BATTLE.
About the Author
Michael Hicks was born in 1963 and grew up during the Apollo program. As a young person, he loved watching the original Star Trek series and other science fiction movies.
These continue to inspire and entertain him to this day. Michael has always been an avid reader and has been greatly influenced by writers such as Robert Heinlein and David Weber, as well as many others.
He currently resides in Maryland with his lovely wife, two stepsons, and two playful Siberian cats. After leaving his government job, Michael now dedicates his time to writing full-time.
Editoral Review
Empire by Michael R. Hicks is a gripping novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a futuristic world.
Published in 2009, the book is set in the year 2241 and explores themes of power, corruption, and the nature of governance. Hicks, a prolific science fiction writer, is known for his ability to create vivid and complex worlds that are both believable and thought-provoking.
The story of Empire revolves around the planet of Arkaria, which has been ruled by a powerful and corrupt government for centuries. The main character, a young man named Alexander, is forced to confront this government and its leaders when his family is murdered by one of its agents.
In his quest for revenge, Alexander discovers that the government’s power is more deeply entrenched than he ever imagined, and that its reach extends far beyond Arkaria. The novel features a cast of well-developed characters, including Alexander’s mentor, the enigmatic and wise John, and a wide array of supporting players who help to flesh out the world of Arkaria.
Hicks also does an excellent job of creating a vivid setting that is both familiar and alien — the landscapes of Arkaria are described in lush detail, but always with a tinge of otherworldliness that sets them apart from our own. Despite its fantastic setting, Empire has real-world resonance — the book’s themes of power and corruption are particularly relevant in today’s political climate, and Hicks draws on real-world historical and cultural touchstones to ground the story in reality.
His deft handling of these issues makes the book a great choice for readers who enjoy science fiction with a point of view. That said, there are some weaknesses to the book.
The pacing can be a bit slow at times, particularly in the early chapters, and some of the political machinations of the government can be hard to follow. Additionally, while the characters are well-drawn, some of them can be a bit one-dimensional, particularly the villains.
Overall, however, Empire is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will appeal to anyone who loves epic science fiction with a strong political twist. Hicks is a talented storyteller who is able to create complicated worlds and characters that feel real and engaging, and the book is a must-read for anyone who loves science fiction with a sociopolitical edge.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
