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The Cruel Stars
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The Cruel Stars

With a ruthless sect of humanity intent on wiping out their species, five intrepid heroes must outsmart their enemies in this epic sci-fi adventure for fans of The Expanse and Battlestar Galactica.

The galaxy was once terrorized by the Sturm, "species purists" intent on destroying any human with genetic or cybernetic enhancements. They cut a bloody swath across the stars, killing countless people before finally being defeated. Centuries later, this sect has returned, close to the brink of victory. Now five people, bereft of their advanced technology and support, must work together to stand against the invaders:

Commander Lucinda Hardy, a legendary captain thrust into uncertain command of the fleet's last ship once the military falls. Booker, an ex-military man whose time on death row is cut short when the Sturm attack his prison compound and accidentally set him free. Alessia, a royal on the run once her home planet is overrun and her family executed. Seph, the leader of a cybernetically enhanced crew of crooks who must pitch in to defeat the invaders. And finally, Mac, who was the famous hero of the original battle with the Sturm hundreds of years ago. But this latest fight may be his last.

To win, the heroes cannot simply defeat the Sturm. They must be as the Sturm are: ruthless, relentless, and resourceful.

They must become liberators. And destroyers.

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About the author

John Birmingham

John Birmingham is an Australian author whose work blends history, speculative fiction, and an unflinching look at human resilience. With a knack for writing high-octane thrillers and thought-provoking dystopian narratives, Birmingham has made a name for himself as a writer unafraid to push boundaries—whether…

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