Iron Dragoons (Terran Armor Corps Book 1)

While the writing is mediocre and the story is cliche, Iron Dragoons is a fun read. If you are looking for something fun, and don't mind some flaws, this book will give you a fun few hours of reading.

It starts out pretty good. It has a Starship Troopers vibe with is good and also elements of another series I like called Crimson Worlds, but the characters begin to make choices that just don't make sense and the there are serious holes in the heroes training sequences of the story. Another thing I do not care for is the overt spiritually and religious overtones in the story, just not my cup of tea. It's a very good idea, just feels like it needs a rewrite with some input from advanced military trainers and tone down the religiousness. It's worth the read, but I won't be reading the rest of the series.

If you are into crying statues and ghosts of dead people ("saints"), then this book is for you. Generally, I have an impression that Richard Fox ran out of ideas where to go with this story, and he decided to go a full-blown religious zealot. This is not science fiction anymore, but it's a religious fantasy with "saints"/ghosts taking an active part in the events of future history.

Unlike the previous books in this Universe, you follow the main character very closely. At times you don't know whether it's a reality or a simulated military exercise. You encounter aliens that turn out to be robots simulating aliens with fluid movements, exceedingly realistic, and then you're dealing with one of the human protagonists who has primitive barely functioning artificial arms and 1980s-style voice simulator. This combination does not make much sense considering the depicted level of technological civilization.

It looked like the plot was somewhat random in the second part. Artificially led through very unexpected places just to revisit some of the old characters from the Ember War without any apparent logic or need for that. Talking about a concealed trip to Australia from the US Mid-West with a free time coinciding with heavy drinking by the newly enlisted plugged soldiers. One would imagine that with freshly installed plugs the soldiers would be banned from altering their brain chemistry with alcohol, especially to the point of nearly forgetting what had happened.

The books in the Ember War saga had a mild element of irritation with this random and irrelevant phrase "Gott Mit Uns", strangely - the phrase in German, the same phrase as the Nazis used. With the plot depicting a nearly total annihilation of the human race, the prayers, and the phrases that "god is with us" looked irrational at best. Now, with the crying statues and ghosts/saints, it is starting to look as if Richard Fox is leading this to comparing what happened at the hands of Xaros, to the biblical genocide of Noah's ark at a cosmic, inter-galactic scale.

This is a pity because Ember War books introduced some interesting concepts like procies and galaxies crumbling with the quantum fluctuations of local vacuum tunneling to a lower energy state. It seemed like the entire plot was a screaming demonstration that there is no benevolent being watching over us and helping us in any way, we're alone in the cosmos and the only agents we can rely on are other people and other fellow sentient beings. But now we have ghosts and crying statues. Disappointment.

Concept of humans hard wired to machines is not new, but having it be irreversible is interesting. The descriptions of the aliens and their worlds could be better, but forces you to use your imagination. All together not a bad read.

Great, great story. Really liked how they went through a selection to being accepted as a recruit and on into the Armor corps. Technology was extremely interesting and made the story hard to put down. Great action that really tied into the tech. Really looking forward to next book.

"Iron Dragoons (Terran Armor Corps Book 1)," by Mr. Richard Fox, is a decent, lightweight, humorous, quick moving story, that takes a previous storyline of the "Iron Hearts," of the "Ember Wars" series, apparently into a series focused on the "Iron."

The story begins after the successful war against the "Xaros," invasion and genocide of intelligent life in the Milky Way Galaxy. An eighteen year old, military orphan, elects to enter the "Armor Corps," a branch of powerful mechs, piloted by humans and "Dotori" allies, in an individual, neurological, hardwired link. The "Iron," are almost a metaphysical military sect, who embrace a warrior mysticism. The tale follows the recruit, through his initial training, and premature trial by combat.

The story can be read as a stand alone, but frankly, due to all the references and history that Mr. Fox employs in "Iron Dragoons," someone who is unfamiliar with the "Ember Wars" series, will be lost. As a stand alone, the story is pretty much the standard SciFi cliche: young recruit, struggling to first enter, and then stay in the program, and ultimately overcoming all obstacles. The "Iron" of the "Ember Wars," is what makes the story appealing.

Mr. Fox writes reasonably well, though he has a penchant for repeating particular words or phrases (i.e. "...azure..."). The proofreading and editing are adequate. Book is actually a bit shorter than advertised, as "promo" pages are abundant after the ending chapter.

For prior readers of, and enjoyed "Ember Wars," this book is recommended. For other readers, it is recommended with the caveat of missing much of the plot and narrative. The story was fully read via Kindle Unlimited.

Iron Dragoons

I’ve always wanted to read a Science Fiction story based on military chaplains serving in combat. Heinlein touched on the subject in Starship Troopers. And, there are real-life examples such as, Rev John Burkhalter who was assigned as a chaplain with the First Infantry and landed in Normandy with Allied forces during the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944.

Iron Dragoon pays homage to several military/religious aspects of service including faith, miraculous events, and a strong code of honor. It seems to have a Crusades flavor rather than a chaplain perspective but it’s done well, it is fitting for a military story, and the details are nicely woven into the story.

As my stepping stone into the series, Iron Dragoon introduced several main characters, depicted the rigors of training and provided some kickass action sequences. The strong characters, compelling storyline, contrasting elements of drama and humor provided by the author are reason enough for me to sign up for the upcoming series installments. And for a science fiction fan of books and movies, there are nice little Easter Eggs/nuggets within the story just to keep the reader on his/her toes.a

there are very few books that resonate with me on a... spiritual level? I'm not sure how I would describe it but the most interesting and endearing aspect of this book and it's series are the religious overtones. I'm not very good at articulating my thoughts but just know that Mr. Fox blends piety and duty to God, Corps, and Country in a way that I've never seen in any other book. Most other's that I've read tend to shy away from religion because it genuinely is hard to make it work in more space opera style books. With that being said his writing style and character development are top notch, every character has real flaws that are relatable and the banter is extremely witty and funny. Fox's military experience shows through in Aignar's brand of humor and even has me laughing out loud at times. And Cha'ril in her attempt to understand human nature unwittingly makes her own brand of humor. Trust me when I say that you'll enjoy this book.

Sidenote: The audio book is just as well done as the written version and in my opinion portrays the characters and events even better than the text so don't be afraid to jump into the audio version. Cheers!

IRON DRAGOONS is my first view of Fox's efforts. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and searched my library catalog for more books. Unfortunately I couldn't find any and decided next payday to find the next book elsewhere. I think he is a talented and intelligent writer and that's one reason I wanted to read more of his books. I liked the characters in Dragoons and their determination to serve their country, but I kept wondering how their Dragoon armor was made! Anyway, Fox kept the story moving and I'm ready to be grandma to these young folks heading for battle. I want the young woman back. My memory isn't great for names, but I liked her and I want her back!

Almost finished with this one! Fantastic book especially if you like "mechs" and powered armor stories. This is in the same universe as the ember war and I wouldn't say you need to read the ember war before this but I recommend it, makes it so much better. Highly recommend this book and anything written by Richard Fox. Also, Luke Daniels voice is like butter on my cochlea.

I enjoyed this book very much and recommend it. The story line is great, the characters believable and well developed, and the action flows well. There are very few errors that the proof readers missed, and the story is interesting and flows well. The characters display human flaws, which make them feel real, and interspersed humor makes for even more enjoyable reading. Grab a copy and see for yourself.

...at the beginning, but it developed into an excellent novel. Most of my issue is that the opening scene describes the use of armor before you are truly introduced to the mechanics of this universe.

No major proofing errors. Consistent flow to the narrative. Interesting diversions. One or two plot points that stretch credulity, but not beyond belief.

I look forward to the next book.

They call themselves Armor and Fury. They hold to a knight's creed. They are the ultimate single fighting machine man has devised. Roland Shaw, orphaned by war, parents killed in conflict. Desires to become someone his parents would be proud of. His path takes him onto the path of the Armor. Does he possess the iron will necessary to become an Iron Dragoon?

I found Iron Dragoons by chance as I scanned some suggestions from the store. I am glad I did as it was an excellent read. As Roland and his friends continued in their intense Armor training they were thrust into an unexpected live combat situation. The military action was exciting and inspiring. I plan to read more of Fox''s stories ASAP.

this was my first time reading this author. It won't be my last! The world building was incredible. Could easily imagine it all. The character development spot-on. The emtions, doubts, and anger and reactions were natural feeling. Fantastic story! Can't wait to join Roland again on his next mission.

This book was awesome! way exceeded my expectations. Hands done the most hard to put down military space opera I've read in awhile.
Fascinating world and presented in such a way so as to enjoy without having had to have read the earlier books like the Ember War series, though now I really want to!
Great action, plot, characters with a touch of tragedy and comedy. Cant wait to buy the sequels

Roland and his two sidekicks make it through selection and are thrown into a LALO drop onto a contested world to save a technology artifact from being taken by the bad guys. Lots of character development and history included to bring the story to a point that the Iron Dragoons can fight their way to glory in books are that follow. I'm going to be there!

Iron Dragoons takes place just after the last book in the Ember Wars saga. It introduces us to some new characters (and highlights some old ones) while showing the selection process and training of Iron Corps candidates through the eyes of one young man. Thank you, Mr. Fox for continuing a much beloved universe with the Terran Armor Corps series!

Roland Shaw had little in life to look forward to, except perhaps the chance to honor the sacrifice his parents made in the war against the Xaros. This is the story of his first trials and training in the Armor Corps.
It's kind of a coming of age story, which I always like. The story is well written, and the connection between the main characters is good. I look forward to future books and seeing how Roland's career continues - I see big things for him!

Richard Fox continues the Ember War saga in fine style. We get to see the training of recruits into the Armor Corps. Richard does an excellent job of telling you the story of three recruits into the Armor Corps and the first missions they go on. The reader is left wanting more. Although not as thrilling and enticing a read as the books in the Ember War Series, this is a definite must read for fans of the series and fans of good military sci-fi.

I'm rubbing my hands together like Mr Burns right now because this deserved it. Great book and I was very pleased to see that it not only was an armor book but it was in the Ember universe. Almost made me tear up to read about the legacy of the Iron Hearts. Will be eagerly awaiting the next installment.

Decent transition from Ember Wars, but it could have covered a bit more back story. Good introduction to the new main characters. Seemed a little short, but then I actually read this book. All the others I paid for the audio version. I would have done so here but at thirty bucks for the kindle unlimited audio version, I'll read it, thank you.

What a pleasure to read an author who actually makes extensive use of character development in an intricate and well written plot. The plot develops gradually and in an engaging way. Nicely written and professionally presented.

It can be difficult to introduce new characters into such a well established universe as that of the Ember Wars Saga; Fox manages it without skipping a beat. Just the right mix of new and old faces to simultaneously remind the reader where and when the story takes place, and guide them into a fresh and exciting new area to explore.

Followed the story of Rolland Shaw from his mandatory inception into Military Service and his becoming armor. Good story, lots of background with Roland receiving his armor badge. The last several chapters deal with a battle on the planet Barada. Found it interesting that the pallets in the system were named from a 1950's sci fi flick.

Amazing, addictive story. Perfect for those who have read and enjoyed the Ember War novels. I enjoyed learning more about the post war earth. It was also great to see behind the curtain of the armor units, and what it takes to become one.

Iron Dragoons spends most of its time following the main characters through boot camp. It is a good start to a new series that will hopefully lead us into new and challenging adventures. I recommend it.

I don't remember who exactly recommended this book to me, but it is a good read once it gets started. You can tell there is backstory in previous books, and that this is the start of a new storyline. I think I'm going to go back to the previous books to get the backstory before I go on to the next one in this series.

The novel was GREAT, as always. It was awesome to get an indepth look at what it means to be Armor. To be Iron, doesn't mean that you lose your fear, love, or uncertainty about yourself, it means you suck it up and overcome. Gott mit unq

B

It is always interesting to watch American fiction try to reconcile two of America's greatest loves: the military and individualism. The author tries to create a future world where an elite squad of powered armor acts as some combination of special forces and shock assault troops, allowing a individual (or small group) to turn the tide of battles and entire wars.

The primary failing of the book is that the writing is not evocative enough. The entire book is basically "a teenager with average skills but a lot of heart joins elite team". There were two scenes in particular that really struck me as not doing enough. Early on, the main character has to pass a test to get accepted into special forces training. The test is to sit in a sensory deprivation tank for 12 hours. This is apparently a test so brutal that two-thirds of candidates can't hack it and drop out. Here's the passage for this scene:

"His mind wandered...to memories of armor videos, to Jerry in the Marines, to Masako.

"After a while -- he had no way of knowing exactly how many hours -- shapes appeared in the darkness, roiling black and white fractals swimming across his vision."

There's no feeling of the slow crawl of hours, no feeling of a man being stuck with nothing except his own thoughts and memories, no feeling of why this would break so many other candidates. There just doesn't feel like there is very much at stake.

Another example occurred later in his training when he's preparing to go into powered armor for the first time. The inside of the armor is a kind of amniotic fluid that fills your lungs and stomach. So the experience is basically drowning. Here's how it is written.

"Roland struggled against the smothering grip of the pod, his body in full-scale panic as his lungs lost their air to the crush and the liquid flooded his chest, which felt like it was burning, suffocating him until...nothing."

That's what it is like to die? That's the overwhelming sense of panic? Of struggle for long minutes? Compare the (lack of) feelings evoked in that passage to scenes from James Cameron's movie The Abyss when characters have a similar experience. Again, there's just not feeling of anything at stake.

And that's the fundamental problem I had with the book; the writing didn't make me feel that anything was at stake. This is supposed to be a bootcamp so brutal and selective that only a few dozen people on the entire planet are able to make it through. Each page should be making me feel the struggle is draining, exhausting, constant...but ultimately enriching. Instead, we are treated to a series of vignettes with no real emotional heft or narrative stakes. There's a scene in training where the the squad is at the shooting range and the main character does such a poor job that he is told to stay behind afterwards. The commander gives him a 30 second pep talk and suddenly Roland's shooting problem is gone.

Everything just comes too easily for Roland.

The book has other flaws -- I found a lot to dislike, unfortunately -- including info-dumps, characters that are pretty cardboard, some unconvincing gaps in the world-building, and so on. But the dealbreaker for me was just the bootcamp for this elite squad didn't didn't convey a sense of struggle and overcoming.

A great spin off from the Ember Wars!!!
Period!! Way to go Richard Fox. Hurry up with the second book in your new saga. Please kind Sir. Seriously, I can't wait for this summer to get ahold of the next book. Again, great job!! I really enjoyed it.