A Journey Beyond War: Discovering "Archangel: Fallen" by Rick Partlow
As a lifelong fan of military sci-fi, I was drawn to Rick Partlow’s Archangel: Fallen from the moment I saw its captivating premise. The idea of a retired supercommando, once a hero in a brutal war, now seeking solace in a wildlife preserve, beckoned to me like a siren’s call. Partlow, best known for his works like Drop Trooper, has an uncanny ability to craft stories that seamlessly blend the complexity of military life with gripping character arcs. Little did I know, this book would take me on a whirlwind journey through themes of morality, redemption, and the lingering shadows of war.
The story revolves around Brent Parthet, a soldier who hoped his days of battle were behind him. Living a peaceful life with his family, he is abruptly thrust back into chaos when a genetically-engineered being from the Southwind—slaves who rebelled against their human masters—arrives at his doorstep seeking aid. This plot twist ignites Brent’s internal struggle as he grapples with the harsh reality that the war he thought he left behind is far from over. Partlow’s deft storytelling held me captive, making me question the very nature of good and evil, and who deserves compassion in a world structured by conflict.
What struck me most was Partlow’s writing style. He has a gift for creating vivid imagery that pulls you right into the heat of battle, yet he also takes the time to develop his characters with warmth and depth. The pacing was brisk but balanced, allowing for moments of reflective introspection that made Brent’s journey not just a physical one but an emotional odyssey as well. Readers like L. R. Schultz echoed my sentiments, remarking on the engaging narrative and suspenseful twists, while others praised the well-rounded character development.
One memorable quote that resonated with me captures Brent’s battle between his past and present: "Sometimes, the greatest battles are fought not with weapons, but within oneself." This line encapsulates the emotional core of the narrative, reminding us that the scars of war run deeper than physical wounds.
Archangel: Fallen stands as a compelling entry into the military sci-fi genre, and I believe it will resonate with a wide audience—whether you’re a seasoned fan of the genre or someone looking to dip your toes into a new world. If you appreciate action alongside philosophical questions about loyalty and right versus wrong, you’ll find yourself deeply invested in Brent’s story.
In conclusion, my reading experience was one of constant engagement and reflection. Partlow crafts a world that feels painfully real and yet leaves room for hope. I walked away from Archangel: Fallen not just entertained but enriched, contemplating the dimensions of heroism and the ongoing struggle for peace. As the first book in a promising series, I find myself eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Brent and the universe around him. If you’re on the lookout for a thoughtful, action-packed journey through the complexities of war, don’t miss this thrilling start to a new saga!