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4.15 AVERAGE
4.15 AVERAGE
adventurous
dark
emotional
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A wonderful read! If not for the cover art, the first few hundred pages were just damn good sci Fi, without the Alien tie in. I love the idea of things happening in relative vacuums as a result of Weyland Utani corruption. I loved the characters and the world they lived in. I just can't stand it when a character who has always been aggressively against having children suddenly becomes hyper focused on becoming a parent. It ruined an otherwise strong character. I know it's meant to be a symbol of her gaining hope for humanities future, but hope does not a mother make.
Much better than it had any right to be. Outstanding worldbuildimg and likeable characters
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I listened to the audiobook, and the voice used for Creen was pretty unbearable at times. I cringed until my teeth hurt when he talked. Still made it through and loved it.
-4.5 stars-
I was very surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. To be perfectly honest, I've been putting off reading it because I wasn't too sure about the premise, but I definitely regret not reading it sooner! The characters are interesting but lack a little depth and you can absolutely tell it was written by a man trying to write a female lead (forgivable in a horror-scifi-action novel) and there are some pacing issues (I feel like this could've been more effective and enjoyable had some parts been pared down a little more) but despite that, it was a great read. My favorite part about it was the world building - it's an unexpected combination of things that shouldn't work, but end up working surprisingly well and I thought a lot of the concepts were just plain cool. It's not a perfect book, but it doesn't have to be in order to be very enjoyable.
Bottom line: if you're a big fan of the Alien books/movies, I'd definitely suggest giving this one a try! As a die hard fan who has read all the books and watched all the movies multiple times, I thought this was an unexpectedly fun addition to the Alien lore and world.
I was very surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. To be perfectly honest, I've been putting off reading it because I wasn't too sure about the premise, but I definitely regret not reading it sooner! The characters are interesting but lack a little depth and you can absolutely tell it was written by a man trying to write a female lead (forgivable in a horror-scifi-action novel) and there are some pacing issues (I feel like this could've been more effective and enjoyable had some parts been pared down a little more) but despite that, it was a great read. My favorite part about it was the world building - it's an unexpected combination of things that shouldn't work, but end up working surprisingly well and I thought a lot of the concepts were just plain cool. It's not a perfect book, but it doesn't have to be in order to be very enjoyable.
Bottom line: if you're a big fan of the Alien books/movies, I'd definitely suggest giving this one a try! As a die hard fan who has read all the books and watched all the movies multiple times, I thought this was an unexpectedly fun addition to the Alien lore and world.
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
A really great book. I enjoyed the characters immensely. There was great action scenes, intense moments and a wide range of emotions. The narrator done an amazing job with all of these characters. I definitely recommend this book.
First, the story is fantastic! I appreciated how the author writes three dimensional characters. He explores the complexity of politics and power within a society without dumbing it down. Many of the characters are multi-faceted and have multiple goals/agendas. superbly done!
Second, the performance is spectacular! During action scenes the performer speeds up his diction, really thrusting the listener into the scene. His voices are great and helpful - not cliched and annoying like some books.
Third, the surprises are perfect. Can't say more. Enjoy!
Second, the performance is spectacular! During action scenes the performer speeds up his diction, really thrusting the listener into the scene. His voices are great and helpful - not cliched and annoying like some books.
Third, the surprises are perfect. Can't say more. Enjoy!
Introduction:
Howl-lo, my fellow furballs and space travelers! It’s your alpha wolf Kiba Snowpaw here, fresh from the frozen tundras of HowlStrom, ready to sink my teeth into something juicy and dark. Today, we’re tearing into *Aliens: Phalanx* by Scott Sigler. This beast of a book, released on February 25, 2020, by Titan Books, takes us on a savage journey through the galaxy—only this time, we’re not in the sterile, high-tech corridors of some spaceship. Nope, we’re going medieval on those acid-blooded Xenomorphs’ asses. Get ready for a ride where swords clash, shields splinter, and blood—oh, so much blood—gets spilled. Welcome to the world of Ataegina, where humanity’s last stand is fought not with pulse rifles, but with spears and courage. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Plot Summary:
Picture this: a world where castles rise from mist-covered mountains, where the clang of steel on steel echoes through narrow valleys, and where legends of demon beasts keep children huddled close to the fire. Ataegina is a planet far removed from the comforts of advanced technology. It’s a world stuck in a time of bronze and blood. The people here are warriors and survivors, their lives defined by one simple, horrifying truth—the Xenomorphs, or “demons” as they’re called, have nearly wiped out their civilization.
When we step into this tale, the world is already a wasteland, ravaged by waves of Xenomorphs that have driven the remnants of humanity into fortified mountain keeps. These survivors cling to life by a thread, isolated and surrounded by death. Our story follows a trio of young warriors: Ahiliyah, Creen, and Brandun, who stumble upon what might just be the key to ending the Xenomorph plague. Their journey takes them through the darkest tunnels, past the jaws of death, and into the lair of the Demon Mother herself. It’s a battle for survival, for humanity, and for the future of Ataegina, and it’s all wrapped up in a package that’s more *Game of Thrones* than *Aliens*.
The Author:
Scott Sigler—now here’s a name that howls with authority in the realms of sci-fi and horror. This dude’s been making waves with his intense, no-holds-barred style of storytelling. With over fifteen novels, countless short stories, and a legion of fans who call themselves “Junkies” (yeah, they’re that addicted), Sigler is no stranger to the dark corners of the universe. He’s a #1 New York Times best-seller, and he’s built his empire on the backs of tales that leave readers panting for more. Sigler’s got a gift for mixing visceral horror with gripping action, and he doesn’t shy away from pushing his characters—and his readers—to the edge. *Aliens: Phalanx* is another feather in his cap, showcasing his talent for reimagining a well-worn franchise in a way that feels fresh and fierce.
Characters:
Let’s sniff out the key players in this bloody saga. First up, we’ve got Ahiliyah, a warrior trapped in a society that refuses to see her worth. She’s smart, fierce, and determined to break free of the chains that hold her back. Ahiliyah isn’t just another cookie-cutter heroine; she’s got layers, and Sigler peels them back with the precision of a master hunter. Her growth throughout the story—from a runner who ferries supplies between keeps to a full-blown warrior fighting for her people—is one of the highlights of this book.
Then there’s Creen, the brainy, snarky companion who’s always two steps ahead. He’s got the kind of smarts that could outwit a Xenomorph, but he’s also got a mouth that could get him into serious trouble. And let’s not forget Brandun, the big-hearted bruiser with dreams of becoming a true warrior. He’s the muscle of the group, but don’t let that fool you—there’s a depth to him that makes his journey as compelling as any in this saga.
The supporting cast is equally robust, with every character bringing something unique to the table—whether it’s the obstinate leaders of the various holds or the desperate survivors clinging to whatever hope they can find. Sigler’s character work is top-notch, making you care about these people even as you know that many of them won’t survive the coming storm.
Structure:
Sigler structures *Aliens: Phalanx* like a medieval epic, with the pacing of a horror-thriller. The story is divided into tight, suspenseful chapters that keep you turning pages long into the night. The narrative flows like a battle hymn, with quiet moments of reflection punctuated by explosive action scenes that will have your pulse racing. Sigler balances the character development and world-building with the relentless pace of survival horror, never letting one aspect overshadow the other. The use of multiple viewpoints gives a panoramic view of the conflict, allowing you to experience the terror from all angles. This isn’t just a story—it’s a siege, and you’re right there on the front lines.
Themes & Analysis:
At its heart, *Aliens: Phalanx* is a story about survival, but it’s also about resistance. It’s about what happens when humanity is pushed to the brink and forced to adapt—or die. The themes of courage, sacrifice, and defiance in the face of overwhelming odds are woven through every page. Sigler doesn’t just explore the physical struggle against the Xenomorphs; he delves deep into the psychological warfare that comes with living under constant threat. The fear of the unknown, the terror of being hunted, and the desperation to find hope in a hopeless world are all explored in gritty detail.
There’s also a strong undercurrent of societal critique. Ataegina’s societies are stuck in their ways, trapped by tradition and a refusal to change, even as the world around them crumbles. Sigler uses this setting to comment on the dangers of stagnation and the need for innovation in the face of catastrophe. The idea that humanity’s greatest enemy might not be the Xenomorphs, but their own inability to adapt, is a chilling one, and it resonates through the narrative.
Scenes:
Let’s talk action, because this book has it in spades. The battle scenes are brutal, fast-paced, and dripping with tension. Sigler doesn’t shy away from the gore—when Xenomorphs attack, it’s a bloodbath. But it’s not just mindless carnage; every fight is a tactical struggle for survival, with the characters using every scrap of knowledge and every ounce of strength to stay alive. The use of medieval weapons against the Xenomorphs adds a unique twist to the combat, making every encounter feel fresh and dangerous.
And then there’s the horror. Sigler knows how to crank up the fear factor, with scenes that will make your fur stand on end. The Xenomorphs are as terrifying as ever, and Sigler captures their predatory nature perfectly. The moments of quiet horror—when the characters are hiding, waiting, knowing that death could come at any moment—are some of the most intense in the book. And when the action finally explodes, it’s a cathartic release of all that built-up tension.
World-Building:
Sigler’s world-building in *Aliens: Phalanx* is nothing short of masterful. Ataegina is a fully realized world, with its own history, culture, and struggles. The medieval setting is a stroke of genius, providing a stark contrast to the high-tech environments we’re used to in the *Alien* franchise. The castles, the mountain keeps, the harsh landscapes—everything feels lived-in and authentic. The mythology of the “demons” (Xenomorphs) is deeply ingrained in the society of Ataegina, and Sigler does a fantastic job of showing how these people have adapted—or failed to adapt—to the horrors they face.
The different holds, each with their own unique cultures and politics, add depth to the world. There’s a real sense of isolation, of a world on the brink of extinction, and it makes the stakes of the story feel all the more urgent. Sigler’s attention to detail is impeccable, from the way the characters interact with their environment to the way the Xenomorphs are portrayed as an almost mythic threat.
Praise & Critique:
There’s a lot to love about *Aliens: Phalanx*. The fresh setting, the strong character development, the intense action, and the relentless pacing all come together to create a story that’s as thrilling as it is terrifying. Sigler’s writing is sharp, his dialogue crackling with energy, and his ability to craft tension is second to none.
However, it’s not without its flaws. The pacing in the first third of the book is slower, as Sigler takes his time building the world and the characters. While this pays off later in the story, it might be a bit of a slog for readers looking for immediate action. Additionally, some of the secondary characters fall into familiar archetypes, which can make parts of the story feel a bit predictable. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar addition to the *Alien* franchise.
Comparison:
When you stack *Aliens: Phalanx* against other works in the *Alien* universe, it stands out for its originality. Where most *Alien* stories stick to the tried-and-true formula of space marines versus Xenomorphs, Sigler takes a bold step in a new direction, mixing the franchise’s horror roots with epic fantasy elements. It’s like *Aliens* meets *The Lord of the Rings*, and it works surprisingly well.
Compared to Sigler’s other works, like *Infected* or *Earthcore*, *Aliens: Phalanx* shows his versatility as a writer. He’s able to take a familiar universe and twist it into something new and exciting, while still retaining the core elements that make it feel like part of the *Alien* canon. It’s a risky move, but it pays off, making *Aliens: Phalanx* one of the freshest entries in the franchise in years.
Personal Evaluation:
As a seasoned wolf who’s seen his fair share of battles, this book hit me right in the heart. The mix of high-stakes action, deep character work, and relentless horror kept me hooked from start to finish. It’s rare to find a book that can keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you care deeply about the characters, but *Aliens: Phalanx* does just that.
I felt every victory, every loss, every moment of terror right alongside Ahiliyah and her crew. The book’s themes of survival, courage, and the fight for a better future resonated with me on a deep level. And the setting—oh, the setting! It’s a world I could get lost in, even with the Xenomorphs lurking around every corner.
Conclusion:
So, what’s the final howl? *Aliens: Phalanx* is a wild, bloody ride that breathes new life into the *Alien* franchise. It’s a must-read for fans who are looking for something different, something that shakes up the formula while still delivering the horror and action we’ve come to love. If you’re a fan of medieval epics, survival horror, or just damn good storytelling, this book is for you.
I’m giving *Aliens: Phalanx* a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 howls. It’s not perfect, but it’s got bite, and that’s what counts. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some Xenomorphs to hunt. Stay frosty out there, and remember—no matter how dark the night, the dawn always comes.
Howl-lo, my fellow furballs and space travelers! It’s your alpha wolf Kiba Snowpaw here, fresh from the frozen tundras of HowlStrom, ready to sink my teeth into something juicy and dark. Today, we’re tearing into *Aliens: Phalanx* by Scott Sigler. This beast of a book, released on February 25, 2020, by Titan Books, takes us on a savage journey through the galaxy—only this time, we’re not in the sterile, high-tech corridors of some spaceship. Nope, we’re going medieval on those acid-blooded Xenomorphs’ asses. Get ready for a ride where swords clash, shields splinter, and blood—oh, so much blood—gets spilled. Welcome to the world of Ataegina, where humanity’s last stand is fought not with pulse rifles, but with spears and courage. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Plot Summary:
Picture this: a world where castles rise from mist-covered mountains, where the clang of steel on steel echoes through narrow valleys, and where legends of demon beasts keep children huddled close to the fire. Ataegina is a planet far removed from the comforts of advanced technology. It’s a world stuck in a time of bronze and blood. The people here are warriors and survivors, their lives defined by one simple, horrifying truth—the Xenomorphs, or “demons” as they’re called, have nearly wiped out their civilization.
When we step into this tale, the world is already a wasteland, ravaged by waves of Xenomorphs that have driven the remnants of humanity into fortified mountain keeps. These survivors cling to life by a thread, isolated and surrounded by death. Our story follows a trio of young warriors: Ahiliyah, Creen, and Brandun, who stumble upon what might just be the key to ending the Xenomorph plague. Their journey takes them through the darkest tunnels, past the jaws of death, and into the lair of the Demon Mother herself. It’s a battle for survival, for humanity, and for the future of Ataegina, and it’s all wrapped up in a package that’s more *Game of Thrones* than *Aliens*.
The Author:
Scott Sigler—now here’s a name that howls with authority in the realms of sci-fi and horror. This dude’s been making waves with his intense, no-holds-barred style of storytelling. With over fifteen novels, countless short stories, and a legion of fans who call themselves “Junkies” (yeah, they’re that addicted), Sigler is no stranger to the dark corners of the universe. He’s a #1 New York Times best-seller, and he’s built his empire on the backs of tales that leave readers panting for more. Sigler’s got a gift for mixing visceral horror with gripping action, and he doesn’t shy away from pushing his characters—and his readers—to the edge. *Aliens: Phalanx* is another feather in his cap, showcasing his talent for reimagining a well-worn franchise in a way that feels fresh and fierce.
Characters:
Let’s sniff out the key players in this bloody saga. First up, we’ve got Ahiliyah, a warrior trapped in a society that refuses to see her worth. She’s smart, fierce, and determined to break free of the chains that hold her back. Ahiliyah isn’t just another cookie-cutter heroine; she’s got layers, and Sigler peels them back with the precision of a master hunter. Her growth throughout the story—from a runner who ferries supplies between keeps to a full-blown warrior fighting for her people—is one of the highlights of this book.
Then there’s Creen, the brainy, snarky companion who’s always two steps ahead. He’s got the kind of smarts that could outwit a Xenomorph, but he’s also got a mouth that could get him into serious trouble. And let’s not forget Brandun, the big-hearted bruiser with dreams of becoming a true warrior. He’s the muscle of the group, but don’t let that fool you—there’s a depth to him that makes his journey as compelling as any in this saga.
The supporting cast is equally robust, with every character bringing something unique to the table—whether it’s the obstinate leaders of the various holds or the desperate survivors clinging to whatever hope they can find. Sigler’s character work is top-notch, making you care about these people even as you know that many of them won’t survive the coming storm.
Structure:
Sigler structures *Aliens: Phalanx* like a medieval epic, with the pacing of a horror-thriller. The story is divided into tight, suspenseful chapters that keep you turning pages long into the night. The narrative flows like a battle hymn, with quiet moments of reflection punctuated by explosive action scenes that will have your pulse racing. Sigler balances the character development and world-building with the relentless pace of survival horror, never letting one aspect overshadow the other. The use of multiple viewpoints gives a panoramic view of the conflict, allowing you to experience the terror from all angles. This isn’t just a story—it’s a siege, and you’re right there on the front lines.
Themes & Analysis:
At its heart, *Aliens: Phalanx* is a story about survival, but it’s also about resistance. It’s about what happens when humanity is pushed to the brink and forced to adapt—or die. The themes of courage, sacrifice, and defiance in the face of overwhelming odds are woven through every page. Sigler doesn’t just explore the physical struggle against the Xenomorphs; he delves deep into the psychological warfare that comes with living under constant threat. The fear of the unknown, the terror of being hunted, and the desperation to find hope in a hopeless world are all explored in gritty detail.
There’s also a strong undercurrent of societal critique. Ataegina’s societies are stuck in their ways, trapped by tradition and a refusal to change, even as the world around them crumbles. Sigler uses this setting to comment on the dangers of stagnation and the need for innovation in the face of catastrophe. The idea that humanity’s greatest enemy might not be the Xenomorphs, but their own inability to adapt, is a chilling one, and it resonates through the narrative.
Scenes:
Let’s talk action, because this book has it in spades. The battle scenes are brutal, fast-paced, and dripping with tension. Sigler doesn’t shy away from the gore—when Xenomorphs attack, it’s a bloodbath. But it’s not just mindless carnage; every fight is a tactical struggle for survival, with the characters using every scrap of knowledge and every ounce of strength to stay alive. The use of medieval weapons against the Xenomorphs adds a unique twist to the combat, making every encounter feel fresh and dangerous.
And then there’s the horror. Sigler knows how to crank up the fear factor, with scenes that will make your fur stand on end. The Xenomorphs are as terrifying as ever, and Sigler captures their predatory nature perfectly. The moments of quiet horror—when the characters are hiding, waiting, knowing that death could come at any moment—are some of the most intense in the book. And when the action finally explodes, it’s a cathartic release of all that built-up tension.
World-Building:
Sigler’s world-building in *Aliens: Phalanx* is nothing short of masterful. Ataegina is a fully realized world, with its own history, culture, and struggles. The medieval setting is a stroke of genius, providing a stark contrast to the high-tech environments we’re used to in the *Alien* franchise. The castles, the mountain keeps, the harsh landscapes—everything feels lived-in and authentic. The mythology of the “demons” (Xenomorphs) is deeply ingrained in the society of Ataegina, and Sigler does a fantastic job of showing how these people have adapted—or failed to adapt—to the horrors they face.
The different holds, each with their own unique cultures and politics, add depth to the world. There’s a real sense of isolation, of a world on the brink of extinction, and it makes the stakes of the story feel all the more urgent. Sigler’s attention to detail is impeccable, from the way the characters interact with their environment to the way the Xenomorphs are portrayed as an almost mythic threat.
Praise & Critique:
There’s a lot to love about *Aliens: Phalanx*. The fresh setting, the strong character development, the intense action, and the relentless pacing all come together to create a story that’s as thrilling as it is terrifying. Sigler’s writing is sharp, his dialogue crackling with energy, and his ability to craft tension is second to none.
However, it’s not without its flaws. The pacing in the first third of the book is slower, as Sigler takes his time building the world and the characters. While this pays off later in the story, it might be a bit of a slog for readers looking for immediate action. Additionally, some of the secondary characters fall into familiar archetypes, which can make parts of the story feel a bit predictable. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar addition to the *Alien* franchise.
Comparison:
When you stack *Aliens: Phalanx* against other works in the *Alien* universe, it stands out for its originality. Where most *Alien* stories stick to the tried-and-true formula of space marines versus Xenomorphs, Sigler takes a bold step in a new direction, mixing the franchise’s horror roots with epic fantasy elements. It’s like *Aliens* meets *The Lord of the Rings*, and it works surprisingly well.
Compared to Sigler’s other works, like *Infected* or *Earthcore*, *Aliens: Phalanx* shows his versatility as a writer. He’s able to take a familiar universe and twist it into something new and exciting, while still retaining the core elements that make it feel like part of the *Alien* canon. It’s a risky move, but it pays off, making *Aliens: Phalanx* one of the freshest entries in the franchise in years.
Personal Evaluation:
As a seasoned wolf who’s seen his fair share of battles, this book hit me right in the heart. The mix of high-stakes action, deep character work, and relentless horror kept me hooked from start to finish. It’s rare to find a book that can keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you care deeply about the characters, but *Aliens: Phalanx* does just that.
I felt every victory, every loss, every moment of terror right alongside Ahiliyah and her crew. The book’s themes of survival, courage, and the fight for a better future resonated with me on a deep level. And the setting—oh, the setting! It’s a world I could get lost in, even with the Xenomorphs lurking around every corner.
Conclusion:
So, what’s the final howl? *Aliens: Phalanx* is a wild, bloody ride that breathes new life into the *Alien* franchise. It’s a must-read for fans who are looking for something different, something that shakes up the formula while still delivering the horror and action we’ve come to love. If you’re a fan of medieval epics, survival horror, or just damn good storytelling, this book is for you.
I’m giving *Aliens: Phalanx* a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 howls. It’s not perfect, but it’s got bite, and that’s what counts. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some Xenomorphs to hunt. Stay frosty out there, and remember—no matter how dark the night, the dawn always comes.
i don’t know what to say this was amazing. epic . so cool so horrific i just love this i don’t wanna touch another alien book because i’ve read the best one.
(my only grumble - ignoring the epilogue)
(my only grumble - ignoring the epilogue)