Review: Cerberus Series: Books 1-3:

Cerberus Series: Books 1-3: by Andy Peloquin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

View all my reviews

A great value for three great books!

The Cerberus Series is an audiobook omnibus of Books 1 through 3 of the Cerberus series and includes Assassination Protocol, Terminal Secrets, and Cyber Strike. All three books have their own self-contained plots while at the same time building toward an overall narrative arc which has a satisfying conclusion in Book 3. The Cerberus series does continue (for a total of 12 books), but the omnibus is an excellent introduction to the world and characters. 

In short, the Cerberus series is excellent. It's a different take on the normal sci-fi genre and though its title labels it as a military space opera, it fits better in the technothriller or cyberpunk genre. There are unique and interesting characters, a well-developed plot, plenty of action, and a bit of humor thrown in as well. Cerberus has just about everything you could want from a well-written book; it’s a fun and entertaining read that easily holds my attention and interest. Plus, if you are looking for audiobook value, it's three books (and 28 hours!) for a single credit.

My favorite part of the series is the protagonist: Nolan Garrett, an ex-special forces government assassin. But, he’s unique in that he was medically discharged from the military after becoming a paraplegic. Even with advanced medical technology, he was never able to walk on his own again. But he can regain his mobility through the use of an armored, AI-run cybernetic suit – which he uses exclusively while carrying out contracts as Cerberus. Since Nolan is otherwise bound to a wheelchair, he’s able to convincingly maintain a secret, civilian identity as a handicapped veteran. Though he shares his background with many ex-military type cliches (i.e. discharged after an injury, went hard into drugs and alcohol, and now plagued with doubts and regret), I find the character’s overall concept unique and intriguing. It’s also an excellent plot device, as I think I’d also get bored with a story focused on a highly-skilled, near-invincible techno-assassin. Nolan’s vulnerabilities add suspenseful situations and thrilling conflicts to keep the narrative interesting.

Bronson Pinchot is an excellent narrator, especially for an action-oriented series like Cerberus. He’s got the perfect voice for a gruff assassin but also does a great job with other characters, including Nolan’s integrated AI (who is distinctly female). Pinchot’s performance creates an immersive experience through a variety of unique voices and a tone and temper that matches well with the book.

Special thanks to Aethon Books, who provided me with this book at my request.

You can find the audiobook omnibus edition of the Cerberus series on Audible's website.