First Lines Friday Salute

 This month it’s a First Lines Friday Salute in science fiction and fantasy novels. In these stories, the heroines battle to save the day. And this post is intended to allow you to find fun fiction to read.

Image of the U.S. Flag superimposed over the image of soldiers marching toward the camera--a first lines friday salute to veterans and military SF& F novels

But in the real world, Wednesday, November 11, 2020 is Veterans Day. A day to salute, to honor, our veterans. The real men and women—mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, daughters and sons—who fought in World War I and all wars—made real-life sacrifices. Salute to you—one and all.

First Lines in Military SF&F

If you enjoy strong female characters AND a science fiction or fantasy story about military folk, take a gander. You’re sure to find one or two titles to your liking. (Note: these posts never have any affiliate links. They are for your convenience and pleasure.)

“Where do you think you’re going, little green man?”

The Dark of Light: Epic Interstellar Adventure

(Starhawke Rising Book 1) by Audrey Sharpe 


The flight attendant stepped up to her seat—4E—which had never been her favorite on a 767-300. 

Drone: an NTSB / military technothriller (Miranda Chase Book 1)

 by M. L. Buchman  Book 1 of 4


“I can’t believe I let you talk me into this,” Yulda grumbled. 

Pain of Betrayal (Wallkeeper trilogy Book 2) 

by Caren Hahn   


Tortured metal screeched as the ship shook under the pounding of another broadside. 

No Honor in Death (Siobhan Dunmoore Book 1) 

by Eric Thomson 


At last, the iron sky cracked, pouring out a torrent of snow.

The Killing Light (The Sacred Throne Book 3) 

by Myke Cole


The burned-out wreckage of the alien spaceship drifted in a halo of its own debris.

Rules of Redemption (The Firebird Chronicles Book 1)

by T.A. White


The Front-Line reverberated not just from the impact, but the sound. 

Grains of Sand (The Front-Line Book 1) 

by Varian Morn  


Sumi-ness immediately recognized the sound of the older model android as it entered the lobby to the Presidential office.

The Rising (Star Saga Book 2) 

by Ken McConnell   


Emiko arrived on campus at the PAC Academy knowing she was different than the other students.

New Blood: Chains of Command Book 1 

by Zen DiPietro  


On a luxury skiff named Lucia, slowly making its way to the station, Awfa Terracydes, fifty-five citizens of the planet Arisani were dancing and drinking to a talented Meluvian band.

Angel of the Alliance (Lady Hellgate Book 4)

by Greg Dragon  


One week. Seven days spent praying enemy reinforcements didn’t arrive.

Risen from Ashes (Honor and Duty Book 6) 

by Sam Schall and Amanda S. Green 


First Lines Friday Salute

Did find a book you want to read? If you haven’t see the previous First Lines Friday posts, check them out. Plenty of first lines to choose from.

I hope you enjoyed this First Lines Friday Salute to military science fiction and fantasy stories. I try to find a variety of stories within the topic. Finding the stories that feature female leads is easier than it has been in the past, but I’d could use your help. Comment below or email me with titles and authors whose first lines stood out to you. Bonus points if the protagonist is a female. In the meantime, try to be patient with the world and yourself. Stay safe. Mask up, stay home when you can, stay 6 feet apart always, and wash your hand.

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