The Revenge of the Damned is something like the closing act of the story arc about Sten fighting against the Taan empire. Over the course of the previous books, Taan had the upper hand – more military power and superior leadership. However, the Empire had a lead in manufacturing capacity and energy production. In book 5, the clash between the Empire and the Taan has already passed its inflection point. At this stage it’s less a question of who wins but more like when and how Sten’s boss wins.

There’s just one small complication: Sten has been captured and now has to somehow win the war from prison.

The book has its good and bad moments. The first part, let’s call it Prison Break, is strong, and the final part probably is too. The middle, however, contains long stretches that read like excerpts from a history textbook, explaining events and background in great detail. These sections are a bit tedious and slow things down. I generally don’t like things being told to me in books, I prefer things shown to me instead.

Several new characters appear, clearly meant to make it to the finale and perhaps show up in future books. There’s a cat-like creature who can’t see in daylight but is exceptionally good with forging, a professional gambler, and a faithful alien with prophet-level beliefs. Alex, on the other hand, feels like he’s running a little low on fuel and is a burden to the story.

At this point, it’s fair to say the main story is essentially finished. There are sequels, but if the series continues, it will probably have to be about something else.

4/5