Just Finished Reading: Valentine’s Rising by E E Knight

Returning from the Caribbean, David Valentine carries with him a consignment of Quickwood – a plant that is supremely toxic to the Reapers, the shock troops of the Kurian race now dominating life of a conquered Earth. On his return to the Ozark Free Territory his small group is ambushed by human forces loyal to the New Order. Scattered to the four winds Valentine discovers that during his absence the Free Territories have fallen to the invader and that nowhere is safe for him or his men. As he discovers survivors hiding in the hills Valentine puts together a daring plan to rejoin the rebellion. Standing in his way is a partially built fortress designed to hold the land in thrall to the Overlords. Posing as new recruits, Valentine’s band take the fortress through subterfuge and are ordered by the remaining Ozark High Command to hold it at all costs. As the area rises against its alien masters Valentine’s makeshift unit become the focus of the enemies counter attack. Determined to hold the encampment and fight to the last man the rag-tag force face the might of the Kurian army. The question is: Will anyone be left alive when the relief forces get there?

This was the fourth book in the Vampire Earth series. It continues the struggle of David Valentine and the other humans fighting against almost 50 years of alien oppression. The Kurians are creatures from legend made flesh – vampires who literally drink men’s souls, their life essence. On the side of humanity are a small number of Lifeweavers – brothers of the Kurians – who are opposed to their quest to extend their lives indefinitely. With the aid of their technology some humans are modified into beings capable of fighting the Kurian menace with at least a small hope of winning.

This is a very good combat SF series containing just about everything you could ask for. Good characterisation – Valentine in particular is a multi-layered hero who struggles with his chosen profession, great story telling – both the combat and non-combat elements are very well done indeed and a driving narrative that keeps those pages turning. The plot is compelling in that it tells the story of resistance to oppression and the fight for freedom in a fallen world. Each book stands alone but also builds on the others to reveal a deep and richly rendered world that, although not a nice place to live is, at least, an exciting and interesting place to visit. I am enjoying this series immensely and look forward to the next volumes of which there are at least four more to come. Watch this space for more adventures – and hopefully victories – for David Valentine.