Why Consider the IX Series?

If you're still undecided about dipping your toes into the world of the IX Series, consider what recent reviewers have to say about this, the epic sci-fi adventure that takes Roman Legionaries, US Cavalry troopers, and modern day Special Forces  soldiers and throws them together in a kiln where the choice is simple:

Fight or Die!

*********

The IX is the most inventive science fiction novel I have read since Stranger In A Strange Land. That's saying a lot. The plot is highly complicated, and yet so clearly and gracefully written that it is easy to follow. In the far future in a galaxy far far away the Arden are besieged by the Horde and though it will take a long time it is clear that their defenses will eventually crumble and they will be destroyed ... unless. The Ardenese, in an act of creative self-immolation sacrifice their lives to save their DNA, in hopes that someone will eventually reseed the planet with its original inhabitants. Their lead computer, The Architect, also recruits defenders through time and space, specially selected for qualities that are not apparent to the Ardenese, from a far off planet called Earth. They snatch great fighters from different eras just before they were about to die anyway. So they're thrown into a probably suicide mission with bonus time. There are problems integrating fighters who were snatched in the act of trying to kill each other, and from far different times, the IX Legion of Rome and Scottish tribesmen, the US Cavalry and Indian tribes, and 22d Century Royal Marine Commandos and terrorists, all welded into an integrated force.
The ending is to wildly inventive and too brilliant to give away here. Suffice it to say I ended the book with tears in my eyes.

Enjoyed how Mr. Weston weaved several time periods, types of warfare and people's custom into this story. I learned several historical facts along the way. This was hard to put down! I’d like to see a prequel of this about the other eight groups.

First off, I have to say this book has been sitting on my kindle for over 1 1/2 years. I’m not sure why I bought it, but I’m glad I did. Since I started publishing my late husband’s stories, I’ve read nothing but indie books for the past three years. Don’t get me wrong, I love indie books and their authors, but I miss the feeling of reading a professionally published book. So when I started reading this little gem, my reading persona gave a big sigh of relief.
This is a long book, so be prepared to spend some time devoted to it. And it’s not a fast-paced story, but there were times when I couldn’t read fast enough. I loved the premise of the story, bringing different cultures and times from Earth to Arden to save the people and the planet from the Horde. I could tell this was written by a military man as there is a lot of military jargon and strategies throughout the book.
I became attached to quite a few of the characters, but like all war, people die. So, this book is laced with emotions. Especially the Epilogue, which brought tears to my eyes. Now I read some 1 star reviews that felt the Native American aspect wasn’t used to its full advantage, or not needed at all. I didn’t feel that way. For me, it meshed nicely with all the other cultures that were trying to adapt to an extremely violent environment. I also have a soft spot for the Native American culture, so I very much enjoyed their inclusion.
If you love alternate history, military stories, and sci-fi, you’ll want to read this book. This is book one in the series, but this ended so well, with no loose ends, I don’t feel compelled to read the next book. I give it my 5 feathers.

I love it when an author has the courage to step outside the box and try something different. This is exactly what you get here with Weston's, The IX. It is a fantastic idea of combining the historical with the modern in a sci-fi tale. This is a stunning book that you will struggle to put down. I can't recommend this book enough. It's fantastic

Death is only the beginning of the adventure. This is the complete premise of this book and from the first page until the last, I was entranced. I’m a huge science fiction fan and you throw in historical elements, I’m in reader heaven.
This sequel picks up where The IX (book one) left off. The threat of the Hoarde is gone (or so everyone on Arden believes) and you can feel the communal exhaling of breath. Things can go back to normal but like with anything, life is rarely peaceful. There’s always the next challenge, the next obstacle to overcome and the soldiers must be prepared for what’s to come. People will die, secrets will be revealed and everyone will be pushed to their limits. Just when victory is at hand, death will rear its ugly head and no one is safe.
It’s been a long time since I read such a wonderful epic science fiction book. Andrew P. Weston’s storytelling style reminds me of Neal Stephenson. Andrew takes the time to detail meticulously all the action, through multiple points of view, but only revealing what he wants the reader to know at the time. The plot progressed at a steady rate. There were several characters to keep track of but Andrew made sure the reader followed along without getting lost.
What truly made this one of the best science fiction books I’ve read in a long time was his world-building technique. His concept is original, the motives of the species are realistic, the planets and technology are believable, the conflict is easy to understand and the commonality of survival is thread throughout the book.
Exordium of Tears is a roller coaster ride of adventure and suspense. Not everyone survives and that only adds to the shocking conclusion. Yes, I gasped in disbelief! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
If you love science fiction and/or pulse-pounding fiction, this is a must-read! It’s no wonder Andrew P. Weston is an International Best-Selling Author.
Favorite Character:
There were so many intriguing characters it was hard for me to pick just one. But the one character I identified most with is Sam. What he has to overcome against insurmountable odds is beyond incredible. Yet when his back is up against the wall, he still manages to keep his sense of humor. I loved that!
Favorite Quote:
“Bloody hell,” he quipped, “who organized the Liberace convention?” ~ Sam

A fan of the first book 'The IX' of this fabulous series, I was excited to lay my hands on 'Exordium', excited that it came out at long last.
Oh what can I say? Another great read doesn't come close to describing my reading experience. Like the description said "death is only the beginning of the adventure" that starts the story of warriors who settled their new home planned, wishing to rise their families in peace. Too much to hope for with the inhuman Horde still lurking on the outskirts, waiting for its chance. Apparently not all of those foes joined the original battle. Far from it! "As worlds are sundered, suns destroyed, and star systems obliterated, a universal conflict proves again..." that no peace could be achieved without the need to fight for it unless the other side is prepared to listen and talk. Not the case in the Exordium colonies.
This brilliant work is a mix of fantasy and history, science fiction and drama, breathtakingly realistic warring scenes and action-adventure aplenty. It covers every aspect and provides a wonderful study on human nature, it educates while entertain, it offers a realistic and epic ride that rivals every classic and actual historical happening. I simply couldn't put this book down!

I’m kind of amazed. Vivid scenes and a continuation of an epic tale. It just keeps getting better. “Exordium of Tears (The IX Series Book 2)” by Andrew P. Weston is a wonderful addition to this stunning series. Recommended. Five stars.

Andrew P. Weston has given us yet another stellar masterpiece from his epic arsenal. Having had the privilege of previously reviewing his debut novel the IX, I must admit how thrilled I am to having dived into this one. This sci-fi/Adventure/History novel draws inspiration from all around to make it into this unique tale of war, death, blood and gore. It follows the same crisp and beautiful writing style of its predecessor and the editor, Janet Morris, did an amazing job in editing. No wonder it hit the bestsellers list. Mr. Weston has a bright and brimming career ahead of him and one that looks like he will enjoy much longevity.
Al-Khemet Book Club

This is a continuation of Weston's incredible tales of the fabled IXth Legion of Rome. I just adore the way that Weston manages tocombine historical elements with science fiction and fantasy. This book is no exception and is as brilliant and inspired as the previous. Any reader who has already discovered Weston's series, will absolutely love this and for new readers it is a great opportunity to delve into this series. Highly recommend.

*********

If YOU feel drawn to the adventure of a lifetime, you know what to do:
The links are in the side column.