Black Ops

★ 10.00 / 2

The elite crew of the pirate ship UNS Flying Dutchman had a simple mission: determining whether the Thuranin are sending another starship to Earth. Along the way, they became sidetracked by securing a future for the UNEF troops on the planet Paradise. When asked whether Earth was now safe, their ancient alien AI responded 'Not so much'... now they have to deal with the consequences.

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Updated 04/22/2025

Category: Science Fiction

Release date: May 24, 2017

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Craig Alanson

Craig Alanson is a master of blending action-packed space adventures with humor and relatable characters, making him a standout voice in the realm of science fiction. Known primarily for his Expeditionary Force series, Alanson has captivated readers with his ability to craft thrilling stories filled with wit, heart, and high-stakes drama. His unique approach to storytelling combines fast-paced action, intricate world-building, and deep character development, which has earned him a dedicated following and solidified his place as a bestselling author.

Born and raised in the United States, Craig Alanson discovered his passion for writing later in life, but it didn’t take long for his creative talents to shine. His first major success came with Columbus Day, the first book in the Expeditionary Force series, which quickly gained popularity for its fresh take on space opera. The series follows the adventures of Joe, an average man who finds himself caught up in an intergalactic conflict, all while accompanied by a sarcastic, artificial intelligence named Skippy the Magnificent. This series exemplifies Alanson's talent for blending humor and suspense, along with his knack for creating complex, dynamic characters that resonate with readers.

Alanson’s writing style is marked by sharp dialogue, clever twists, and an engaging narrative pace that keeps readers hooked from one book to the next. His works often feature themes of survival, friendship, and the importance of adaptability in the face of overwhelming odds, with a perfect mix of lighthearted moments and intense, life-or-death scenarios. His distinctive voice and ability to balance humor with high tension has garnered praise from readers and critics alike.

Throughout his career, Craig Alanson has continued to expand his literary universe, with multiple series and stand-alone novels that continue to captivate fans of space opera, military sci-fi, and even urban fantasy. His books have been praised for their imaginative plots, relatable characters, and knack for keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Whether crafting intricate alien worlds or diving into the complexities of human relationships in the vastness of space, Alanson's stories are as engaging as they are entertaining.

Now a full-time author, Craig Alanson resides in the United States and continues to write stories that blend humor, science fiction, and adventure into compelling narratives. With each new book, he further cements his reputation as one of the leading voices in modern science fiction, with his Expeditionary Force series and other works finding devoted fans around the world.

Photo: Andrew Liptak

Expeditionary Force

The Expeditionary Force series by Craig Alanson is a thrilling blend of space opera, military science fiction, and humor, offering readers an unforgettable adventure through the cosmos. Set in a universe teeming with alien species, intergalactic conflict, and high-tech warfare, this bestselling saga follows the story of Joe, an average man thrust into extraordinary circumstances. As he navigates a galaxy on the brink of war, Joe must rely on his wits, courage, and a surprisingly helpful AI named Skippy the Magnificent to survive.

The series begins with Columbus Day, where Joe, a simple pilot, finds himself unwittingly caught in a war between powerful alien factions. When his ship is shot down and he's taken hostage by an alien species, he forms an unlikely alliance with Skippy, a snarky artificial intelligence with a vast arsenal of knowledge. Together, they must outwit enemies, forge new alliances, and uncover hidden truths in a galaxy filled with danger.

What sets Expeditionary Force apart from other sci-fi series is its combination of fast-paced action, humor, and character development. Joe’s sarcastic wit and dry humor are perfectly matched by Skippy’s equally sharp tongue, providing an engaging dynamic that balances the high-stakes moments with light-hearted relief. The series seamlessly mixes epic space battles with comedic banter, making it as fun as it is thrilling. Fans of space adventures and military sci-fi will appreciate the depth of world-building, the vivid alien cultures, and the complex intergalactic politics that Alanson weaves into each installment.

Over the course of the series, Joe’s journey evolves from a reluctant hero to a central figure in the fight for the future of the galaxy. The storyline explores themes of survival, friendship, and sacrifice, all set against the backdrop of an epic space opera. As the series progresses, readers are treated to intricate plots, unexpected twists, and high-stakes confrontations that keep them hooked from book to book.

The Expeditionary Force series has garnered critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and the unique combination of humor and action. Fans of military science fiction, space exploration, and thrilling adventures will find themselves fully immersed in this captivating universe. Craig Alanson’s sharp writing style and imaginative world-building make this series a standout in the genre, with a growing fanbase eagerly awaiting each new release.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of space opera or new to the genre, Expeditionary Force offers an epic adventure that’s as heart-pounding as it is entertaining, with complex characters and a richly developed universe that will leave you wanting more.

Expeditionary Force consists of eighteen primary books, and includes two additional books that complement the series but are not considered mandatory reads — series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

Related series Expeditionary Force Mavericks