Wade (ePub)

This is the story of Clayton Wade.

Sailing across the universe in 2646 A.D., Leftenant Clayton Wade serves as the gun deck Officer of the 48 gun Argo as it travels across the galaxies protecting trade routes from a dark enemy known as Scavengers. Clay finds himself facing an uncertain future as the universe edges closer to war. The Scavengers have organized themselves into a coalition referred to as the Hinn, hell bent on destroying the Allied space forces already struggling to ensure stability across the universe.

Modeled after the 18th century Man-o'-War frigates fighting on the high seas, the Nelsonian fleet comprises a battle configuration outfitted with solar sails, tall masts, taught lines, and massive, modern guns capable of blasting out energy converted from the light of the galaxies as the Argo travels through the stars. Dressed in long coats, cocked hats, shined boots, swords, and high collars, the Officers of the Argo are Gentlemen – volunteering and making the mark to serve on the ships most likely to fight, and be destroyed, as they sail across the universe to protect transports from Scavengers.

Along with his long serving friend and counterpart Ensign Samuel Maury, Clay faces the difficult decision of continuing service aboard the Argo just as hostilities against the Hinn are escalating quickly, or to take an offer from the Defense Ministry to leave the fleet prematurely. Rumors are circulating, however, about Clay's past just as the Argo is reassigned to another quadrant closer to Scavenger saturated space. Loyalties are in question as the Gentlemen of the Stars do their best to reassure the command that they are nothing less than honorable.

While doing their best to cling to the sanctimonies of their profession, Clay and the other Officers of the Argo can visibly see their world change around them. There's a new Leftenant aboard the Argo, the Defense Ministry is investigating members of the fleet, the fight is becoming more dangerous, and war seems certain in the very near future.

To your posts, Gentlemen. And run out the guns.

"4.0 out of 5.0"
"escapist...an incredible work of science fiction...enthralling...lovely" - Indie Reader Discovery Awards, March 4, 2022