Sherman and Cragg (Starfist: Wings of Hell
) develop their real-life military experience into the realistic undertones of the accessible 14th Starfist novel. Following previous adventures, the Marines of the 34th FIST are now “the most active, most highly decorated unit in the entire Confederate Marine Corps.” With enlistments extended “for the duration” and the promise of more combat soon, morale is at an all-time low. When word comes of what might be a Skink attack on planet Ishtar, the 34th is promptly deployed, only to be drawn into battle with the indigenous Fuzzies and an illegal human mining operation. The verisimilitude of quiet moments and combat scenes alike makes for quality military SF. With such a large cast, very few characters get significant screen time or development, and the emotional beats will undoubtedly hold more resonance for longtime fans. (Jan.)
