The Coalition Books

Harmon Tomeral, along with his friends and allies, continues to develop the forces of Salvage System, for its own defense and—if the cause is just—to defend others. Humans and aliens working together would seem novel…but then again, outside of Earth and the Sol System, humans are aliens, too. Having salvaged, repaired, and rebuilt a number of warships, the Salvage Fleet is a presence to be reckoned with. The Ground Force, including its specialty unit, the Bolts, has also continued to grow, and they spend their time training with the weapons of war—mechs, tanks, artillery, and battle armor—and anything else they can get their hands and paws on that will give them an edge in battle. When the Nazrooth System calls, they are once again compelled to right a wrong. It won’t be easy…but then again, it never is. Just don’t tell Harmon the odds—he doesn’t want to know them. Despite a staggering imbalance in forces, Harmon boards his flagship, Salvage Title, and leads the majority of his fleet to free Nazrooth. Only a small, defensive fleet is left behind, full of trainees and reservists. Both Salvage Fleet and the home forces are ready to face the odds, but what if this time they’re insurmountable?

Out from the shadows! The Serpentes have long felt that isolation was the best way to survive in the galaxy, but a traitor’s actions have revealed their presence to the universe, and Admiral El’Jyiurma of the Serpentes Space Navy has traveled to Gieliv to prevent a terrorist incident from being inflicted on the humans there. She returns home triumphant, but there is trouble brewing—the Serpentes face peril from both internal and external forces, and El’Jyiurma finds herself caught up in the middle. With word of their existence growing, they catch the attention of a race they’d rather not meet. At the same time, they must battle the hatred and fear that automatically comes from humans, based merely on their appearance. Fearing an invasion from outside forces, President Frazier of Gieliv sends a desperate plea to the Serpentes, requesting help to bolster their weak navy. With a potential attack looming, the king of the Serpentes sends El’Jyiurma to the Gieliv system to foster diplomatic relations and help defend Gieliv. Hard choices have to be made, and El’Jyuirma is in the hot seat. Which is the more significant threat, and how can it be stopped? A wrong choice could lead to the end of the Serpentes civilization, and El’Jyiurma has little time to decide.

Harmon Tomeral and his friends wanted nothing more than to go to space, and they have beaten the odds, time and again, to get there. They developed a mech and won the Top Fleet Marine Competition. They brought back a battlecruiser from an unknown system and made it their own. They made allies who helped them achieve great victories, and they ultimately founded new colonies in what has become known as the Salvage System. Salvage System is a beacon of hope, and a number of other races continue looking toward it as an inspiration for how to live and govern themselves, and—in some cases—for assistance in defending themselves and throwing off oppressive regimes. But the galaxy is a big place, and many of the races in it aren’t friendly. Would these forces like to take over Salvage System and acquire its resources? Absolutely. Fifteen incredible authors take you further into the Salvage Title universe, giving you looks at some of the beacons of hope…and some of the malevolence that has yet to show its face. Can Harmon Tomeral and his friends hold out against it? Take a look inside and find out! With stories by: Kevin Steverson Brad R. Torgersen Christopher G. Nuttall Jake Bible Quincy J. Allen Robert E. Hampson Jon R. Osborne Christopher Woods Ian J. Malone Marisa Wolf Alex Rath David Alan Jones William Joseph Roberts Brisco Woods Nick Steverson

Harmon Tomeral and his friends have beaten the odds, time and again, to establish Salvage System as a beacon of hope, and it is seen as an inspiration for how races can coexist and govern themselves. The members of Salvage System have also been instrumental in helping other systems defend themselves and throw off oppressive regimes. But the galaxy is a big place, and many of the races in it aren’t friendly. Would these forces like to take over Salvage System and acquire its resources? Absolutely. Many tales of adventure can’t be contained in a short story, though, like the birth of Earth as an interstellar nation or what happens when two forces scavenge the same boneyard; sometimes it takes more. This book contains five novellas that expand the Salvage Title Universe and give glimpses of where it was thousands of years ago…and where it will be soon. All of the stories are from veteran Salvage Title authors who know where the universe is going and who are actively crafting its journey. From a dragon searching for honor to the creation of a mercenary force for good, all of these stories offer additional insights into the Salvage Title Universe. Strap in and get ready, because here’s the long and short of it… With stories by: Kevin Steverson Robert E. Hampson Nick Steverson Brisco Woods Donald G. Nicholson

The Quest Continues! Dahkal, an eight-and-a-half-foot winged warrior, is undergoing the Imperial Journey of Succession—a quest to learn the art of leadership he must undertake prior to assuming the crown of emperor for his people—and his search for honor and adventure continues, accompanied by his unlikely alien companion, a human named Ryan. But all is not as it seems, as his brother has designs on the crown—plans that don’t include Dahkal returning from his Journey—and he has set in motion a stratagem to take the crown for himself. After winning the battle on Pergus and surviving an encounter in an uncharted system, Dahkal and Ryan arrive in the Salvage System to acquire a new contract. Having defied the odds twice on complicated missions, a contract for a simple cargo pick-up should be easy, especially with the new crew they hired, right? But—like the journey to achieve the crown—there are people who’d like to take the cargo for their own—and over Dahkal’s dead body, if that’s what it takes. While they wait for their battlecruiser to be built, can the crew of the frigate Winged Fury stand up to a ship built for war, or will Dahkal’s brother’s plans come to pass?

On an isolated human world called Phoenix, outside the galactic gate network, a royal empire teeters on the brink of revolution. The new emperor is weak, the old guard seeks power, and rumors of war titillate the populace. None of this concerns Symeon Brashniev, newly appointed steward to one of the most powerful heiresses on the planet. Happy to let the royals play their game of catch the crown, Symeon is more concerned with balancing his mistress’s books than worrying about affairs of state. But when Symeon discovers evidence of sedition at the highest levels of government buried deep within her finances he realizes her great peril. Though a slave, he finds himself trapped in political intrigue, desperate to protect his mistress from the royals who would see her dead. Agonized by the choice of turning her over to the authorities or protecting her secrets, Symeon decides to keep faith with his sovereign over his larger duty, thus flinging himself into a world of power, plots, and assassination. If he fails, they both die…and with them the chance at freedom for Symeon’s enslaved race.

It was an easy job—until the pirates showed up—but ultimately, Dahkal and Ryan completed their contract on the planet Ruul and ended up with the mining rights to the entire planet. But when their new Emerald Dragons mercenary company returned to the Salvage System, they found Dahkal’s sister, Reuan, waiting for them. As only the heir of Shein is ever allowed to leave the Sheinrah System, the question was…why was she there? When Dahkal learns of his father’s death in the Battle of Ascension with his brother, Gortal, Dahkal knows he must return home to put an end to Gortal’s tyrannical ways…or die trying. And it definitely won’t be easy, for Gortal has the might of the Sheingal military at his disposal, and, as Dahkal and Ryan well know, nothing ever goes according to plan. But when the pirates return to Ruul, Dahkal’s loyalties will be tested. Will he take care of the people who put their trust in him, or will he cast them aside to challenge his brother? With several missions to complete, Dahkal will have to put together a force able to overcome the odds, while simultaneously accepting the loss of his father, protecting those around him, and retaining what’s his. Can Dahkal, Ryan, and their band of misfit mercenaries prevail over their biggest challenge yet, or will they lose everything they’ve worked for…and more?

Rippleton Torn has a couple of problems—he loves the ladies and he loves to gamble. Unfortunately, while he’s pretty good with the ladies, he’s not a great gambler, and he’s just lost his ship in a card game. That’s a problem because—somehow—he still needs to deliver a cargo he has contracted. On the plus side, he won a night of unbridled passion with a Davini. When he finds that Davini women aren’t built like humans and what that night would entail, well, Ripp needs a ship…fast. Vann Hagar, captain of the Eagle, needs a cargo after his last job went south. He thinks he’s struck gold when Ripp contracts him to deliver a shipment of guns. Then the Davini and her bodyguards show up and everything begins to spiral out of control. Thus begins the tale of two smugglers who are just trying to make that perfect score so they can live out their dream lives. That is, if they can stay out of trouble. What are the odds? If the past is any indication…not good.

With things calm outside the Strorix system—at least for now—Queen El’Jyiurma has time to work on things at home. She has new hatchlings to take care of as well as a growing empire, and she has her coils full. The Gnevusin threat isn’t over, though. The only questions are how long will they wait to attack, and will it be long enough for the ships the Serpentes have coming to be brought into service? With new ships on the way, and not enough crews, the Strorix Royal Navy welcomes its first humans to its ranks, but not every Serpentes is ready for the change. Can the humans withstand the pressure and stick with it to become SRN officers? Cadet Shawn Savage, for one, knew the road wouldn’t be easy when he was accepted into the accelerated track, but he had no idea what was waiting for him…or who. And, if that wasn’t enough, El’Jyiurma comes across information that will shake the very roots of the Strorix system to its core. She was chosen as the leader, and now she faces her most difficult challenge since taking the crown. Will she rise to the challenge, or will the Serpentes’ civilization be destroyed by the centuries-old secret?

It Takes All Kinds…Of Aliens! Harmon Tomeral and his friends wanted nothing more than to go to space, and they have beaten the odds, time and again. They developed a mech and won the Top Fleet Marine Competition. They brought back a battlecruiser from an unknown system and made it their own. They made allies who helped them achieve great victories, and they ultimately founded new colonies in what has become known as the Salvage System. The galaxy is a big place, though, peopled with thousands of races, and most haven’t graced the pages of a Salvage Title book…until now. “It Takes All Kinds” contains fourteen all-new stories showcasing some of the aliens in the Salvage Universe, and helps give a wider view of the galaxy as events continue to transpire in The Coalition series. From smugglers you’ve seen before to races and their pets that you haven’t, one thing’s for sure—Harmon Tomeral will be there to stick up for the little guy. From aliens looking for that special guitar to AI’s looking for a little more life, it’s all in here. Just remember, though—Laney ain’t recruiting! Inside are potential allies for Harmon Tomeral and his friends…as well as some of the adversaries who are lining up against Salvage System. Who are these new races? Take a look inside and find out! With Stories by: Kevin Steverson William Webb Alex Rath Quincy J. Allen Marisa Wolf Chris Woods Rob Howell Ian Malone Tim C. Taylor Melissa Olthoff Mark Stallings Robert E. Hampson Jason Cordova Benjamin Tyler Smith

Across the galaxy, hell hath no fury like a mother protecting her young, no matter the race! Harmon Tomeral and the crew of Salvage Title embark on an exploration of an anomalous system discovered by young Bahroot . Unlike the vast majority of gated systems, this one was not on the list of coordinates publicly available on the Galactic Network. Meanwhile, Siva, a fighter pilot and new mother in a binary system on the edge of the galaxy is forced to make a decision. She chooses to do what it takes to save her babies…at all costs. With Salvage Fleet repaired and growing, training is ongoing for the newest fleet members. Salvage System is quiet and its allies are experiencing the same, so Harmon decides a little old fashioned salvaging is called for. An unknown system with no gate usage in centuries. What could go wrong?

It Takes Even More Kinds…Of Aliens! Harmon Tomeral and his friends wanted nothing more than to go to space, and they have beaten the odds, time and again. They developed a mech and won the Top Fleet Marine Competition. They brought back a battlecruiser from an unknown system and made it their own. They made allies who helped them achieve great victories, and they ultimately founded new colonies in what has become known as the Salvage System. The galaxy is a big place, though, peopled with thousands of races, and most haven’t graced the pages of a Salvage Title book…until now. “It Takes More Kinds” contains twelve all-new stories showcasing even more of the aliens in the Salvage Universe, and helps give a wider view of the galaxy as events continue to transpire in The Coalition series. No matter the odds, though, Harmon Tomeral will be there to stick up for the little guy. From humans stuck being the freak show in an alien carnival to a battle that hinges on a salad, anything is possible. But is making friends with the Squilla and trusting them with your life just too much to ask? Inside are potential allies for Harmon Tomeral and his friends…as well as some of the adversaries who are lining up against Salvage System. Who are these new races? Take a look inside and find out! With Stories by: Chris Kennedy Kevin Steverson Mark Wandrey Jon R. Osborne Nick Steverson P.A. Piatt William Joseph Roberts Jamie Ibson Casey Moores Matt Novotny Dan Bridgwater Brisco Woods

With Ruul and the mining company protected and the Bieratang pirates defeated, it’s time for Dahkal and Ryan to journey to Salvage System. Their new battleship and crew await, as well as some unexpected—yet much appreciated—help. Dahkal’s real mission can finally begin. Ready to face the worst, the Emerald Dragons leave Salvage and head to Sheinrah. On the other side of the gate lies the unknown, which probably includes overwhelming odds and almost certain death. It’s just another day in the life of a merc, however, especially if you’re Sheinrah’s First Heir. Gortal, still unaware of Dahkal’s continued existence, prepares to fight Reuan and retain his usurped throne. His plans will not be deterred, and his goals will be met. Before his time is through, the galaxy will again know and fear the mighty Sheingal Empire. As Dahkal and company heads through the stargate, one thing is sure—for every action, there are consequences. Will Gortal reap what he has sown, or will he finally defeat his older brother and take the imperial throne for good?

“Great moments are born from great opportunity.” — Herb Brooks, head coach, 1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic hockey team. Zack Monahan had it all ten years ago. A “rags to riches” story as anointed by the Sol system press, the human quarterback from the slums of Tretra took college warball by storm, smashing every record on the way to being the projected top pick in the next First Interstellar Warball Association amateur draft. Then came the hit that shattered everything. Deek Xatori never had a chance. An undersized player on the heels of his fifth roster cut in four seasons, the reeoli journeyman was headed home, hoping for one last shot at professional glory. Neither being had much to offer to a cellar-dweller franchise on a backwater world, still reeling from the worst natural disaster in planetary history. Welcome to the world of high-stakes interstellar warball, where craniums collide on the field, secrets lurk off it, and the fates of civilizations rise or fall on a single play. It’s also where a ragtag club of misfits, backed by a city of outcasts, just might find their opportunity for redemption. Fun, 80’s-style sports adventure mixes with a poignant look at the power a community can wield when they believe in something together. Ian absolutely charged into the end zone with this one. Do you believe in miracles? Believe in The Last Argonaut! -- Kacey Ezell, author of The Psyche of War series