Tuesday, 6 September 2011

Book Reviews

No Man's World: The Ironclad Prophecy
Pat Kelleher
Abaddon Books

Available Now - £5.74 (Digital Download) & £7.99 (Paperback)
Review by Blake Harmer

Set weeks after the events of the first book (Black Hand Gang), The Iron Clad Prophecy follows newly promoted Corporal Thomas “Only” Atkins and his Black Hand Gang as they attempt to track down their battalion’s tank, the HMLS Ivanhoe, after it is late from being sent out to explore the alien planet they have been transported to. To make matters worse, their encampment is under the attack from the insectoid alien Khungarii, and the tank is needed urgently to turn the tide of the battle as munitions and supplies begin to dwindle. However, Atkins is about to discover a terrible secret, and that bringing the tank back is going to be more difficult than they first feared.

Building on the strengths of Black Hand Gang, Kelleher gives the fans more of what they wanted: more of the alien planet, more battles, more aliens, and more death and destruction. The fact the story maintains its pulpy feel while expanding on the story is great to see, and there is plenty here to keep fans of the first book thrilled and wanting more by the end.

If there were any criticisms of The Ironclad Prophecy, it would be that the story isn’t as strong as the first book. This could be because it is the difficult sequel that all films books and numerous franchises have to overcome, though. I also would have liked to see a little more character development with regards to some of the other soldiers, especially as there seems to be a large focus on action set pieces. However, this is still an enjoyable read, and one that will keep fans happy and with a climax that will leave them wanting the next instalment eagerly.

The Emotionally Fourteen Rating
Violence:
Just like the previous book, The Ironclad Prophecy is filled to the brim with meaty alien death and enough battles to keep you entertained throughout.
Sex/Nudity: None.
Swearing: Plenty of World War One era cursing, but nothing overly strong here.
Summary: A thoroughly enjoyable read and worth getting if you enjoyed Black Hand Gang. While the storyline overall isn’t as strong as the first book, there is plenty of mystery and excitement to keep you entertained and to leave you wanting the third book. 8/10

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