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Hybrid Helix #5
Eyes of Empire
A baby dreadnought is terrorizing two star systems.
A new wormhole has been opened, a new planetary system revealed, populated by a strange and impossible race.
A mad god is on the loose.
The il’Drach have destroyed an entire planet.
They are on their way to Wistful.
Rohan just wants a peaceful day of work and a decent cup of coffee.
But if he doesn’t handle the dangers facing his friends, his system, and his sector of the galaxy, who will?
A new wormhole has been opened, a new planetary system revealed, populated by a strange and impossible race.
A mad god is on the loose.
The il’Drach have destroyed an entire planet.
They are on their way to Wistful.
Rohan just wants a peaceful day of work and a decent cup of coffee.
But if he doesn’t handle the dangers facing his friends, his system, and his sector of the galaxy, who will?
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 3, 2024
This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog
Oh boy, I think it’s safe to say that J.C.M. Berne just changed the game for the Hybrid Helix series in Eyes of Empire. It’s got all the heart, humour and power of the first four instalments, but as the lore expands and the stakes are raised, the awe-inspiring bigger picture is becoming ever clearer; I’d dare say, this series is turning into a true celestial masterpiece.
Don’t you just love that feeling when you open a book and immediately feel like you have come home? That is exactly what reuniting with Rohan & crew felt like to me when I started Eyes of Empire. From the very first page, I was once again just completely sucked into the madness that is Rohan’s daily life, and this time things got especially unruly. A newly opened wormhole, first contact shenanigans, a destructive baby dreadnought, and a mad god on the loose… looks like Rohan will have to wait a bit longer on his much desired peaceful day of boring work and a decent cup of coffee.
In Eyes of Empire, Berne once again proves his masterful skill at writing extremely vibrant and distinct characters (both human and non-human) who clash and work together in the most ridiculously entertaining ways. And with the first half of this book largely being a first-contact narrative, you can expect some hysterical culture clashing and amusingly awkward interactions, especially when our beloved rambly and sarcastic Rohan is involved.
I absolutely loved the exploration of a new planet, race and culture in Eyes of Empire, not only because of the high intrigue and entertainment factor, but also because it so smoothly expanded and deepened the lore of this series. Experiencing the (slightly ridiculous) il’Zkin way of life through Rohan’s outsider perspective was so fun, and just when I thought I couldn’t love him more, he starts standing up for queer rights in this instalment; at least, that was his intention, but miscommunication can happen to the best of us, and the repercussions of what he thinks he did are maybe a bit less wholesome…
Though, as much as I loved spending time in a new environment, it was back on Wistful in the second half of the book that things fully kicked into gear for me. Berne has (maybe unintentionally?) created one of my favourite found families in fiction, and I loved seeing all of my favourites again, even if they bicker like siblings sometimes. Some highlights for me were Wei-Li (no explanation needed), the reluctant dad/eager kid dynamic between Rohan and his ship Void’s Shadow, and the hysterical introduction of the il’Zkin Katya into their group; her unexpected bond with everyone’s favourite space-bear Ang was effortlessly amusing and heartwarming.
Now, while all that sounds like a jolly good time (which it is), there’s a much deeper story about trauma, regrets, consequences, corruption, self-discovery, empathy, redemption, and morality hiding behind all the light-hearted fun. I’ll admit that in some aspects the narrative can become a bit too action-packed, convoluted or hectic for my personal tastes, but at those points it’s exactly this deeper emotional core that keeps me grounded and engaged.
Moreover, I really appreciated how Berne tackled heavier topics like depression, refugee crises, imperialism and the galaxy-spanning devastating effects of war. Wistful is not the safe haven it once was and Rohan is forced to do some deep reflection and introspection, which leads to some of the most poignant and powerful moments of character growth in the series yet; his personal journey naturally promotes an inspiring attitude of kindness, support, empathy, and compassion (even if you aren’t personally affected by certain injustices/depravities), which is exactly what gives this story so much heart and staying power.
If you somehow still thought these books were nothing more than fun popcorn reads, you better think again; J.C.M. Berne is shooting for the stars, and you better bet he is not going to miss. Eyes of Empire is another brilliant instalment in this visionary sci-fantasy superhero space opera, bringing the story to new heights that are entirely out of this world; I simply can’t recommend the Hybrid Helix series highly enough!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Oh boy, I think it’s safe to say that J.C.M. Berne just changed the game for the Hybrid Helix series in Eyes of Empire. It’s got all the heart, humour and power of the first four instalments, but as the lore expands and the stakes are raised, the awe-inspiring bigger picture is becoming ever clearer; I’d dare say, this series is turning into a true celestial masterpiece.
Don’t you just love that feeling when you open a book and immediately feel like you have come home? That is exactly what reuniting with Rohan & crew felt like to me when I started Eyes of Empire. From the very first page, I was once again just completely sucked into the madness that is Rohan’s daily life, and this time things got especially unruly. A newly opened wormhole, first contact shenanigans, a destructive baby dreadnought, and a mad god on the loose… looks like Rohan will have to wait a bit longer on his much desired peaceful day of boring work and a decent cup of coffee.
In Eyes of Empire, Berne once again proves his masterful skill at writing extremely vibrant and distinct characters (both human and non-human) who clash and work together in the most ridiculously entertaining ways. And with the first half of this book largely being a first-contact narrative, you can expect some hysterical culture clashing and amusingly awkward interactions, especially when our beloved rambly and sarcastic Rohan is involved.
I absolutely loved the exploration of a new planet, race and culture in Eyes of Empire, not only because of the high intrigue and entertainment factor, but also because it so smoothly expanded and deepened the lore of this series. Experiencing the (slightly ridiculous) il’Zkin way of life through Rohan’s outsider perspective was so fun, and just when I thought I couldn’t love him more, he starts standing up for queer rights in this instalment; at least, that was his intention, but miscommunication can happen to the best of us, and the repercussions of what he thinks he did are maybe a bit less wholesome…
Though, as much as I loved spending time in a new environment, it was back on Wistful in the second half of the book that things fully kicked into gear for me. Berne has (maybe unintentionally?) created one of my favourite found families in fiction, and I loved seeing all of my favourites again, even if they bicker like siblings sometimes. Some highlights for me were Wei-Li (no explanation needed), the reluctant dad/eager kid dynamic between Rohan and his ship Void’s Shadow, and the hysterical introduction of the il’Zkin Katya into their group; her unexpected bond with everyone’s favourite space-bear Ang was effortlessly amusing and heartwarming.
Now, while all that sounds like a jolly good time (which it is), there’s a much deeper story about trauma, regrets, consequences, corruption, self-discovery, empathy, redemption, and morality hiding behind all the light-hearted fun. I’ll admit that in some aspects the narrative can become a bit too action-packed, convoluted or hectic for my personal tastes, but at those points it’s exactly this deeper emotional core that keeps me grounded and engaged.
Moreover, I really appreciated how Berne tackled heavier topics like depression, refugee crises, imperialism and the galaxy-spanning devastating effects of war. Wistful is not the safe haven it once was and Rohan is forced to do some deep reflection and introspection, which leads to some of the most poignant and powerful moments of character growth in the series yet; his personal journey naturally promotes an inspiring attitude of kindness, support, empathy, and compassion (even if you aren’t personally affected by certain injustices/depravities), which is exactly what gives this story so much heart and staying power.
If you somehow still thought these books were nothing more than fun popcorn reads, you better think again; J.C.M. Berne is shooting for the stars, and you better bet he is not going to miss. Eyes of Empire is another brilliant instalment in this visionary sci-fantasy superhero space opera, bringing the story to new heights that are entirely out of this world; I simply can’t recommend the Hybrid Helix series highly enough!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 18, 2026
At this point, I’m fully invested in the Hybrid Helix series and
EYES OF EMPIRE
just reinforced why.
Every time I finish one of these books, I immediately want to pick up the next.
I immersion read this one by pairing the physical paperback with the audiobook narrated by Wayne Farrell, who continues to do such an incredible job bringing this world and these characters to life.
One thing I especially loved in this installment was how FUNNY it was. (Okay, to be fair, each book has a lot of humorous moments and witty banter - but I think this one made me laugh just as much as the first book.)
For all the chaos, planetary destruction, terrifying alien threats, and galaxy-level stakes happening here, this book genuinely had me laughing out loud multiple times. Something about Rohan experiencing “first contact” situations just always works for me. Moments like “Why was it shaved? Is this a punishment?” absolutely took me out. And the waterfall scene in Chapter 7? I was dying. (I had to read it twice!)
This series has gotten really good at balancing tone. It can go from humor to tension to emotional character moments without feeling jarring.
I also continue to appreciate how well the author handles the expanding cast. New characters are introduced naturally, they all feel distinct, and I never struggle to keep track of who’s who. That becomes more impressive with every book.
The character relationships continue to deepen in ways that feel earned, and I especially loved the development surrounding the Repentant plotline in this installment. And Katya? New favorite. :D
What keeps me hooked most, though, is how consistently this series moves the larger story forward. Every installment adds new layers to the galaxy, the politics, the threats, and the relationships while still feeling focused and engaging.
This series continues to be one of the most consistently enjoyable sci-fi reads I’ve picked up in a long time, and I cannot wait to continue.
Every time I finish one of these books, I immediately want to pick up the next.
I immersion read this one by pairing the physical paperback with the audiobook narrated by Wayne Farrell, who continues to do such an incredible job bringing this world and these characters to life.
One thing I especially loved in this installment was how FUNNY it was. (Okay, to be fair, each book has a lot of humorous moments and witty banter - but I think this one made me laugh just as much as the first book.)
For all the chaos, planetary destruction, terrifying alien threats, and galaxy-level stakes happening here, this book genuinely had me laughing out loud multiple times. Something about Rohan experiencing “first contact” situations just always works for me. Moments like “Why was it shaved? Is this a punishment?” absolutely took me out. And the waterfall scene in Chapter 7? I was dying. (I had to read it twice!)
This series has gotten really good at balancing tone. It can go from humor to tension to emotional character moments without feeling jarring.
I also continue to appreciate how well the author handles the expanding cast. New characters are introduced naturally, they all feel distinct, and I never struggle to keep track of who’s who. That becomes more impressive with every book.
The character relationships continue to deepen in ways that feel earned, and I especially loved the development surrounding the Repentant plotline in this installment. And Katya? New favorite. :D
What keeps me hooked most, though, is how consistently this series moves the larger story forward. Every installment adds new layers to the galaxy, the politics, the threats, and the relationships while still feeling focused and engaging.
This series continues to be one of the most consistently enjoyable sci-fi reads I’ve picked up in a long time, and I cannot wait to continue.
September 2, 2024
4.5 Stars!!
I have loved every one of the books in The Hybrid Helix series. Rohan is just such a great character. You can’t help but feel sorry for him when he is pulled into the Empire’s drama yet AGAIN, when all he wants to do is hang out with his friends and drink coffee, mope over his vacationing girlfriend’s absence, and eat eggs of questionable origin (Never ask where they're from. Just don't.)
Turn Five starts with Rohan doing his mundane job on Wistful and trying to stay under the Empire’s radar, but as his luck would have it, there’s trouble to deal with which involves the arrival of millions of refugees to Wistful, investigating a newly discovered planet on the other side of an ancient wormhole, and dealing with a half-insane space station and an adolescent warship with a huge chip on its shoulder.
Rohan makes first contact on the new planet with a clan of lion-like aliens who exhibit some uncomfortably familiar Powers and a lot of restrictive Laws. Rohan’s misunderstanding of some of those Laws begins a chain reaction which promises catastrophe, and he is the only one with the skills, experience, and emotional baggage to find a way to prevent it from happening.
I had a little trouble losing myself in this book in the first half, though it’s a fantastic story about meeting a new culture and making assumptions about things from one’s own cultural perspective. Once the hits started coming, though, I could not put it down. The last half of this book is a slam-bang delight. The plot twists are fantastic. I won’t spoil this for anyone who loves the series; I will only say that it sets up the future with one hell of a decision from Rohan that leaves you hanging by the tips of your fingers.
I have loved every one of the books in The Hybrid Helix series. Rohan is just such a great character. You can’t help but feel sorry for him when he is pulled into the Empire’s drama yet AGAIN, when all he wants to do is hang out with his friends and drink coffee, mope over his vacationing girlfriend’s absence, and eat eggs of questionable origin (Never ask where they're from. Just don't.)
Turn Five starts with Rohan doing his mundane job on Wistful and trying to stay under the Empire’s radar, but as his luck would have it, there’s trouble to deal with which involves the arrival of millions of refugees to Wistful, investigating a newly discovered planet on the other side of an ancient wormhole, and dealing with a half-insane space station and an adolescent warship with a huge chip on its shoulder.
Rohan makes first contact on the new planet with a clan of lion-like aliens who exhibit some uncomfortably familiar Powers and a lot of restrictive Laws. Rohan’s misunderstanding of some of those Laws begins a chain reaction which promises catastrophe, and he is the only one with the skills, experience, and emotional baggage to find a way to prevent it from happening.
I had a little trouble losing myself in this book in the first half, though it’s a fantastic story about meeting a new culture and making assumptions about things from one’s own cultural perspective. Once the hits started coming, though, I could not put it down. The last half of this book is a slam-bang delight. The plot twists are fantastic. I won’t spoil this for anyone who loves the series; I will only say that it sets up the future with one hell of a decision from Rohan that leaves you hanging by the tips of your fingers.
October 9, 2024
JCM Berne continues to knock it out of the park with each Hybrid Helix instalment!
Eyes of Empire is one of, if not the best novel in the series thus far. New characters and adventures combined with greater universe-building and interesting plot threads make this book phenomenally fun.
The humour continues to be knee-slapping goodness and there were even a few one-liners that brought heaps of smiles and nostalgia.
Hybrid Helix continues to blow me away with its depth, intricacy and unique, light-hearted tone. I love everything about it and hope this amazing quality continues with each new story!
Eyes of Empire is one of, if not the best novel in the series thus far. New characters and adventures combined with greater universe-building and interesting plot threads make this book phenomenally fun.
The humour continues to be knee-slapping goodness and there were even a few one-liners that brought heaps of smiles and nostalgia.
Hybrid Helix continues to blow me away with its depth, intricacy and unique, light-hearted tone. I love everything about it and hope this amazing quality continues with each new story!
September 7, 2024
Amazing
I love this series.
Extremely well written and thought out.
Great central character.
Probably one of the best modern science fiction series on the market.
Long as Berne keeps writing then I will keep reading.
Highly recommended.
I love this series.
Extremely well written and thought out.
Great central character.
Probably one of the best modern science fiction series on the market.
Long as Berne keeps writing then I will keep reading.
Highly recommended.
February 24, 2026
Hybrid Helix continues to be one of the most enjoyable space opera series running right now, and Rohan is as strong (literally and figuratively) as ever.
Maybe a little too much going on at once in this turn, but it's a great close to the first arc and I'm eager to jump into the next one!
Maybe a little too much going on at once in this turn, but it's a great close to the first arc and I'm eager to jump into the next one!
May 25, 2025
“Who builds a warship and says, ‘Hey, let’s make sure she can whine, in case, I don’t know, her captain misses being around teenagers’?”
2025 is turning out to be the year of J.C.M. Berne for me and for good reason. Rohan is just such an outstanding main character to follow and his journey keeps getting more epic. Book 5: Eyes of Empire has actually dethroned Wistful Ascending to be my #1 ranked book in the series. It is the conclusion to the platinum arc of the series and what a conclusion it is. After 4 books of amazing character, and plot development, Joe finally strikes black gold here. It is always amazing when the world expands or the plot turns to a new direction but when a character changes their perspective and understanding of themselves and others, especially after a long journey filled with conflicts (book 1-4,) that truly transforms the story into a new level. Joe does this electrifyingly in Eyes of Empire. It is truly an extraordinary book.
The first thing I want to mention is how the writing and pacing keeps getting better with each book. This series is incredibly readable- that’s the best word I could come up with. Everytime you pick up the book, the pages fly enormously fast. And Joe keeps leveling this up masterfully with every new book. The second thing is the dialogue and humor. Rohan is why I read the book- such an amazing main character that I cannot stop loving even when he does some really bad things, but Wei Li is the showstopper. She steals every scene she is in.
“That’s why they pay you the big bucks, Wei Li. Or credits. Or gold. Meat? I have no idea what currency you’re paid in.”
“Today I wish my salary was in painkillers to take care of the headache I am developing.”
Since this is book 5 of the series, I cannot talk much about the plot as it would veer into spoiler territory but we go to a new planet in this book and discover a new race. The il’Zkin are definitely my favorite race in the Hybrid Helix world. It is also truly skillful that the author can introduce a character in book 5 and make me love them as much as the ones I have traveled with for four other books previously. This is currently my favorite found family in all of SFF.
Overall, I loved this book. This series just keeps ascending in terms of fun and depth. Especially from book 3, this series has veered off towards something really epic and I am pumped to see where it would go ultimately. On to book 6 soon.
2025 is turning out to be the year of J.C.M. Berne for me and for good reason. Rohan is just such an outstanding main character to follow and his journey keeps getting more epic. Book 5: Eyes of Empire has actually dethroned Wistful Ascending to be my #1 ranked book in the series. It is the conclusion to the platinum arc of the series and what a conclusion it is. After 4 books of amazing character, and plot development, Joe finally strikes black gold here. It is always amazing when the world expands or the plot turns to a new direction but when a character changes their perspective and understanding of themselves and others, especially after a long journey filled with conflicts (book 1-4,) that truly transforms the story into a new level. Joe does this electrifyingly in Eyes of Empire. It is truly an extraordinary book.
The first thing I want to mention is how the writing and pacing keeps getting better with each book. This series is incredibly readable- that’s the best word I could come up with. Everytime you pick up the book, the pages fly enormously fast. And Joe keeps leveling this up masterfully with every new book. The second thing is the dialogue and humor. Rohan is why I read the book- such an amazing main character that I cannot stop loving even when he does some really bad things, but Wei Li is the showstopper. She steals every scene she is in.
“That’s why they pay you the big bucks, Wei Li. Or credits. Or gold. Meat? I have no idea what currency you’re paid in.”
“Today I wish my salary was in painkillers to take care of the headache I am developing.”
Since this is book 5 of the series, I cannot talk much about the plot as it would veer into spoiler territory but we go to a new planet in this book and discover a new race. The il’Zkin are definitely my favorite race in the Hybrid Helix world. It is also truly skillful that the author can introduce a character in book 5 and make me love them as much as the ones I have traveled with for four other books previously. This is currently my favorite found family in all of SFF.
Overall, I loved this book. This series just keeps ascending in terms of fun and depth. Especially from book 3, this series has veered off towards something really epic and I am pumped to see where it would go ultimately. On to book 6 soon.
Read
October 30, 2025Love this series. Will be discussing on my YouTube channel, BellTube
September 12, 2024
I've honestly been hooked hard on the Hybrid Helix series by J.C.M. Berne since reading book one two years ago. Fast forward almost exactly two years later and I had the opportunity to read book 5 Eyes of Empire and the timing was perfect for me. I was coming off a very emotionally epic read and I needed the type of break that Rohan can often provide me. Even though this one had it's own emotional rollercoasters, it was just what I needed at just the right time.
Though by this point I am very comfortable with the pacing of this series and the books within, it may still feel a bit on the faster side for anyone just coming into it. I never get the feeling that anything is being rushed though. The author does a nice job in keeping the story and action moving along. You can almost always rest assured up to this point that there will be some epic fight scenes in the Hybrid Helix reads. I continue to have no trouble with keeping up with what is going on nor any issues with names of places or characters.
The world building continues to be great! I can't get enough of all the different species that Joe comes up with when building these stories. Not only do we have my favorite space bears from many books ago, we now have space cats to go along with them. Each species or race has their own unique cultures and view points as well. Seeing them come together in the stories (often on Wistful) and seeing their reactions is both hilarious and anxiety inducing at times when things don't exactly go smoothly. We continue to see more of Rohan and this world's history unfold before our eyes and in some cases come back to bite a character or two.
The character development probably stands out to me as making the biggest strides in the series so far. We've seen these stories continue to get deeper with each turn of the Helix. Eyes of Empire I feel made a sizable jump though. We have several characters that go through a lot of growth personally as well as individually. Even with some great new characters introduced in this story, I can't help but walk away feeling my favorite interaction and outcome in this one was with the ship Repentant. Things don't always go smoothly but once in awhile the universe finds a way for things to potentially work out.
If you like science fiction in general and haven't check out any of the Hybrid Helix stories do yourself a favor and get it into your TBR list as soon as possible. I think some readers of this genre are hesitant due to the super hero vibe this series eludes to, especially from the covers. There are "supers", those with some type of power or another but it doesn't really give me those type of super hero vibes other than perhaps one book early on. It's far more than that one aspect.
I personally am in this for the long haul. As long as Joe keeps providing these, I will continue to read them. The only thing I need to do now is get caught up with adding the last two books in the series to my favorites shelves at the house!
Though by this point I am very comfortable with the pacing of this series and the books within, it may still feel a bit on the faster side for anyone just coming into it. I never get the feeling that anything is being rushed though. The author does a nice job in keeping the story and action moving along. You can almost always rest assured up to this point that there will be some epic fight scenes in the Hybrid Helix reads. I continue to have no trouble with keeping up with what is going on nor any issues with names of places or characters.
The world building continues to be great! I can't get enough of all the different species that Joe comes up with when building these stories. Not only do we have my favorite space bears from many books ago, we now have space cats to go along with them. Each species or race has their own unique cultures and view points as well. Seeing them come together in the stories (often on Wistful) and seeing their reactions is both hilarious and anxiety inducing at times when things don't exactly go smoothly. We continue to see more of Rohan and this world's history unfold before our eyes and in some cases come back to bite a character or two.
The character development probably stands out to me as making the biggest strides in the series so far. We've seen these stories continue to get deeper with each turn of the Helix. Eyes of Empire I feel made a sizable jump though. We have several characters that go through a lot of growth personally as well as individually. Even with some great new characters introduced in this story, I can't help but walk away feeling my favorite interaction and outcome in this one was with the ship Repentant. Things don't always go smoothly but once in awhile the universe finds a way for things to potentially work out.
If you like science fiction in general and haven't check out any of the Hybrid Helix stories do yourself a favor and get it into your TBR list as soon as possible. I think some readers of this genre are hesitant due to the super hero vibe this series eludes to, especially from the covers. There are "supers", those with some type of power or another but it doesn't really give me those type of super hero vibes other than perhaps one book early on. It's far more than that one aspect.
I personally am in this for the long haul. As long as Joe keeps providing these, I will continue to read them. The only thing I need to do now is get caught up with adding the last two books in the series to my favorites shelves at the house!
May 8, 2026
Book Review: Eyes of Empire (Turn Five of the Hybrid Helix) by JCM Berne
5/5 stars. Joe Berne has authored another excellent book about the life and times of Rohan, Wei Li, Wistful, the Drs. Stone, Void’s Shadow, and all the supporting cast. This story introduces us to a new alien species, the Il’Zkin, and we learn even more about the il’Sein and what they were trying to accomplish in the distant past. Rohan must face multiple situations, with the new race on their home planet Pilli 5; with the Ohnians, whose planet was destroyed because of the actions of the new Hyperion; and a rogue hybrid, WildEye, who has left the service of the Empire and is looking for her missing sister – someone Rohan remembers all too well. Berne excels at putting Rohan into difficult situations and giving him multiple options to work through to solve the problems. Eye of Empire is such a great story, and the Hybrid Helix is such a great series overall.
I am also looking forward to continuing with the audiobooks as they come out this year. Wayne Farrell is the perfect narrator for this series. He has done such a wonderful job with each of the first five books, and I look forward to continuing these audiobooks with his narration! Thanks to Joe Berne for an ARC copy of this audiobook!
If you have not started The Hybrid Helix yet, what are you waiting for? It is entertaining, well-written, and filled with some deeply emotional moments. Highly recommended!!
5/5 stars. Joe Berne has authored another excellent book about the life and times of Rohan, Wei Li, Wistful, the Drs. Stone, Void’s Shadow, and all the supporting cast. This story introduces us to a new alien species, the Il’Zkin, and we learn even more about the il’Sein and what they were trying to accomplish in the distant past. Rohan must face multiple situations, with the new race on their home planet Pilli 5; with the Ohnians, whose planet was destroyed because of the actions of the new Hyperion; and a rogue hybrid, WildEye, who has left the service of the Empire and is looking for her missing sister – someone Rohan remembers all too well. Berne excels at putting Rohan into difficult situations and giving him multiple options to work through to solve the problems. Eye of Empire is such a great story, and the Hybrid Helix is such a great series overall.
I am also looking forward to continuing with the audiobooks as they come out this year. Wayne Farrell is the perfect narrator for this series. He has done such a wonderful job with each of the first five books, and I look forward to continuing these audiobooks with his narration! Thanks to Joe Berne for an ARC copy of this audiobook!
If you have not started The Hybrid Helix yet, what are you waiting for? It is entertaining, well-written, and filled with some deeply emotional moments. Highly recommended!!
September 28, 2024
I was fortunate enough to have been sent a copy of this book by the author. I have a lot of things to say about it, things I would have said even if I'd bought the book myself.
Hybrid Helix is a series that is a shining example of character growth done right. Rohan just wants to live a quiet life, but stuff just keeps happening to him. All things considered, he takes it in stride. The stakes are always high, but this felt very much the epitome of 'out of the frying pan and into the fire'.
Something about the way these books are written makes it really hard to predict what's going to happen. I usually figure out the solution about half a page before Rohan does. This was no exception. I felt pretty clever.
I enjoyed the new characters we're introduced to. I think the il'Zkin are up there now with my all-time favourite sci-fi species. I'm a cat person, so to see a feline species done with such care and attention to detail made me so happy.
And then the epilogue happened. I sat there, staring at that one sentence. Just the one. I'm probably going to think about it off an on until the next book comes out. This one just came out and I already need more.
if you haven't read any of the books, you need to. Hybrid Helix has firmly cemented itself as my favourite sci-fi book series.
Hybrid Helix is a series that is a shining example of character growth done right. Rohan just wants to live a quiet life, but stuff just keeps happening to him. All things considered, he takes it in stride. The stakes are always high, but this felt very much the epitome of 'out of the frying pan and into the fire'.
Something about the way these books are written makes it really hard to predict what's going to happen. I usually figure out the solution about half a page before Rohan does. This was no exception. I felt pretty clever.
I enjoyed the new characters we're introduced to. I think the il'Zkin are up there now with my all-time favourite sci-fi species. I'm a cat person, so to see a feline species done with such care and attention to detail made me so happy.
And then the epilogue happened. I sat there, staring at that one sentence. Just the one. I'm probably going to think about it off an on until the next book comes out. This one just came out and I already need more.
if you haven't read any of the books, you need to. Hybrid Helix has firmly cemented itself as my favourite sci-fi book series.
September 10, 2024
Sci-fi drama at its best
Friendship, camaraderie, banter, a lived in world with lived in characters - these are my favourite kind of stories. Lord of the Rings is still the greatest fantasy story I have read, but it’s not something I revisit regularly. Every now and again I prefer to drop in to the worlds of the Dresden Files, The Belgariad/Malloreon, The Expeditionary Force, The Lost Fleet and Harry Potter. These worlds are populated with characters and lives I can resonate with. It’s both a call back to my own experiences and a fresh hangout with people I like. The Hybrid Helix is just such a series. Interesting stories with interesting characters told with a light and deft touch. The characters are all on a journey. And so are you. We grow together. And I just love that. Eyes of Empire was beautiful. And comfortable. It was me returning to spend time with people I love. In these crazy times, thank you JCM Berne for bringing some much needed magic into my life
Friendship, camaraderie, banter, a lived in world with lived in characters - these are my favourite kind of stories. Lord of the Rings is still the greatest fantasy story I have read, but it’s not something I revisit regularly. Every now and again I prefer to drop in to the worlds of the Dresden Files, The Belgariad/Malloreon, The Expeditionary Force, The Lost Fleet and Harry Potter. These worlds are populated with characters and lives I can resonate with. It’s both a call back to my own experiences and a fresh hangout with people I like. The Hybrid Helix is just such a series. Interesting stories with interesting characters told with a light and deft touch. The characters are all on a journey. And so are you. We grow together. And I just love that. Eyes of Empire was beautiful. And comfortable. It was me returning to spend time with people I love. In these crazy times, thank you JCM Berne for bringing some much needed magic into my life
September 7, 2024
two problems
When you have one problem, you have a problem. When you have two problems, you have an opportunity. The answer was obvious, just difficult.
The Epilogue was outside-the-box thinking.
Eager for the next book.
When you have one problem, you have a problem. When you have two problems, you have an opportunity. The answer was obvious, just difficult.
The Epilogue was outside-the-box thinking.
Eager for the next book.
May 14, 2026
Yet again another banger! The author just doesn’t miss with this fantastic series.
October 5, 2024
My TBR pile gets rearranged whenever Joe releases a new book. Another great installment in The Hybrid Helix. Looking forward to the next.
August 22, 2026
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader. If you like this post, you might like others on that site. Consider checking it out!
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WHAT'S EYES OF EMPIRE ABOUT?
I feel very much like our friend Inigo: "Let me explain... No, there is too much. Let me sum up." How Berne fit all this into 399 pages without it feeling rushed or anything, I don't know.
* The station Repentant is acting stranger than usual...and that's not good.
* The il’Drach Empire has wiped out most of the population of a planet—the refugees are on their way to Wistful, who doesn't have enough room for them all—and some are in a very medically fragile state.
* While Ben and Marion try to deal with the immediate problems (keeping them alive), Rohan needs to find a place for them to live in the long-term
* Hyperion is mixed up in the wiping out of the planet, and Rohan just might have to do something about that.
* The il’Drach are checking to see if they need to do any more clean-up work in the area related to Hyperion.
* The Hybrid that decided to stick around on Wistful is having a hard time acclimating.
* Another wormhole opened up to another system with a couple of very funky planets. One of which supports life, and Rohan goes off to make first contact.
* That first contact is with a feline-human race, and first contact could've gone better. Which leads to Rohan having someone else to help acclimate to life on Wistful (and among more species than she believed existed in the universe)
WHY DID I PICK THIS UP? WHY DID I KEEP READING?
I picked it up because it’s a Hybrid Helix novel. I love these things. Yes, it took me too long to get back to it, because I was enforcing my “no moving on until you write about the previous book” rule—and I kept putting that one off. Now that I’ve read this, I’ve got the next book slotted for September (unless my August isn’t as crazy as I think it’ll be).
I kept reading for two reasons: 1. It’s a Hybrid Helix novel. I love these things. 2. What Berne is doing with Rohan in these pages—and setting him up to do for the next arc of the series—is fascinating. Also, the new characters/species/planets are so cool that I wanted to learn more about them. Lastly, I really enjoyed what Berne’s doing with our established secondary characters in general and how he’s mixing the new characters in with them.
VAGUELY SPOILER-Y SECTION AHEAD, FEEL FREE TO SKIP TO NEXT SECTION
ROHAN REALIZES THAT HE'S NOT JOHN RAMBO
(I’m referring the movie version, not the book version. Although, he’s clearly not that, either)
In every First Blood movie sequel, the beginning is the same—John Rambo has found somewhere quiet, away from society, where he can meditate, do some simple tasks as work, and live at peace. Something interrupts that (frequently, but not always, related to Col. Trautman) and he has to go shoot, stab, and manhandle whoever this particular movie's enemy are.
This is really Rohan's goal when we meet him, and it looks like it's working (well, except for that in medias res opening to Wistful Ascending). And it's continually his goal throughout the series. But things keep happening to interrupt that: a wormhole opens up and drops a new race on his doorstep and he has to work to keep them safe; giant monsters are coming out of the ocean to wreak havoc and destruction and he has to go help out; a nasty space vampire is running amok on Wistful and he needs to stop it; etc. It's not quite as explodey as (and quite a bit more articulate than) Rambo's adventures, but the outline is similar.
Each time Rohan intervenes, he takes on more and more responsibility for those around him. Unlike Rambo, who just leaves everyone else behind to get away from the world. Okay, I'm done talking about Rambo, let's focus on Rohan.
At the same time, Rohan's doing things to improve his power, to gain a better handle on it, so that he doesn't have to tap into his anger (that will then be hard to control), to use it in combat-like situations.
He's presented in this book with an opportunity—if not a responsibility—to choose another way. A way that means he won't only be a tow-chief anymore. That he'll embrace greater responsibility in the systems around Wistful (and connected to them by wormhole).
This really marks a step forward for the series and will set our Hybrid in a new direction for a while.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT EYES OF EMPIRE?
While reading this, I remembered that I was close to the end of the first arc of the Hybrid Helix—but I wasn’t sure if that was this book or the next (and why bother looking that up when I could just keep reading?). In the last few chapters (maybe 50-100 pages) it sure felt like a conclusion of sorts was on the horizon, and even better—it felt earned, deserved, and organic. This isn’t a case of Berne deciding to change things up and forcing it on the series. Berne says this has been his plan all along, but Carlton Cuse and Damon Lindelof have rendered me incapable of trusting writers when they say things like that.
Anyway, it was a very satisfying way to take this book and series—I’m looking forward to seeing what the next arc looks like.
This is filled with all the trademark Berne flourishes—great action, great banter, interesting musical recommendations, crazy new alien creatures. Sure, the “cat people” are not that revolutionary—but their culture is (and Rohan’s misunderstanding of it was pretty amusing). And the fauna on their planet…ugh. I want to talk about it, but I don’t want to ruin anyone’s exposure to it. But they could be my favorite thing introduced in this series since we met the Ursans. I've been talking about the bigger arcs, and deeper things going on in the series for most of this post, but I shouldn't neglect to say that this is just a fun read. Whatever else Berne does, that is preeminent in his books.
We also meet a disturbing new representative of the il’Drach Empire. Each time I think the Empire is as distasteful and horrible as it can be, Berne finds a new and interesting way to prove that I’m wrong. Okay, okay, they have their whole "for the greater good" justification—or really, "the lesser of two evils" justification. But, I'm not entirely certain that I buy it. I'm thinking there has to be a better way. Another way. I expect that within the next 17 books, we're going to find out what that way is.
Really, there’s no reason (unless you’re following stupid self-imposed rules) to not grab this book if you’re into super-hero fiction, space opera, witty dialogue (internal or otherwise), and/or good fun.
---
The native’s body was humanoid, but its head was catlike. Something like a tiger. Or a lion. Whiskers; eyes with black pupils and sclera of gold; white fur around the muzzle; long, sharp teeth. Definitely a carnivore.
Tiger? Lion? Liger? I'm fighting a liger-headed alien. My mother warned me I’d have days like this. Don’t leave Earth, she said. You'll end up fighting liger-headed aliens on distant planets where they don’t even have breathable air or working toilets.
WHAT'S EYES OF EMPIRE ABOUT?
I feel very much like our friend Inigo: "Let me explain... No, there is too much. Let me sum up." How Berne fit all this into 399 pages without it feeling rushed or anything, I don't know.
* The station Repentant is acting stranger than usual...and that's not good.
* The il’Drach Empire has wiped out most of the population of a planet—the refugees are on their way to Wistful, who doesn't have enough room for them all—and some are in a very medically fragile state.
* While Ben and Marion try to deal with the immediate problems (keeping them alive), Rohan needs to find a place for them to live in the long-term
* Hyperion is mixed up in the wiping out of the planet, and Rohan just might have to do something about that.
* The il’Drach are checking to see if they need to do any more clean-up work in the area related to Hyperion.
* The Hybrid that decided to stick around on Wistful is having a hard time acclimating.
* Another wormhole opened up to another system with a couple of very funky planets. One of which supports life, and Rohan goes off to make first contact.
* That first contact is with a feline-human race, and first contact could've gone better. Which leads to Rohan having someone else to help acclimate to life on Wistful (and among more species than she believed existed in the universe)
WHY DID I PICK THIS UP? WHY DID I KEEP READING?
"The bad news, however, is about as bad as you could possibly imagine.”
“What? That’s impossible, I have a powerful imagination. It’s not as if you contaminated their culture and doomed the planet, right?”
Rohan shrugged.
Wei Li’s eyes widened. “Oh my.”
Ben frowned. “Really?”
Ang’s jaw dropped. “My Katya-le’s people?”
Rohan sighed. “I’m going to fix things. I will.
“I’m just not sure how.”
I picked it up because it’s a Hybrid Helix novel. I love these things. Yes, it took me too long to get back to it, because I was enforcing my “no moving on until you write about the previous book” rule—and I kept putting that one off. Now that I’ve read this, I’ve got the next book slotted for September (unless my August isn’t as crazy as I think it’ll be).
I kept reading for two reasons: 1. It’s a Hybrid Helix novel. I love these things. 2. What Berne is doing with Rohan in these pages—and setting him up to do for the next arc of the series—is fascinating. Also, the new characters/species/planets are so cool that I wanted to learn more about them. Lastly, I really enjoyed what Berne’s doing with our established secondary characters in general and how he’s mixing the new characters in with them.
VAGUELY SPOILER-Y SECTION AHEAD, FEEL FREE TO SKIP TO NEXT SECTION
ROHAN REALIZES THAT HE'S NOT JOHN RAMBO
(I’m referring the movie version, not the book version. Although, he’s clearly not that, either)
I just wanted a quiet life. Tow ships, drink tequila. Maybe find a girlfriend. Now people are trusting in me. Counting on me.
In every First Blood movie sequel, the beginning is the same—John Rambo has found somewhere quiet, away from society, where he can meditate, do some simple tasks as work, and live at peace. Something interrupts that (frequently, but not always, related to Col. Trautman) and he has to go shoot, stab, and manhandle whoever this particular movie's enemy are.
This is really Rohan's goal when we meet him, and it looks like it's working (well, except for that in medias res opening to Wistful Ascending). And it's continually his goal throughout the series. But things keep happening to interrupt that: a wormhole opens up and drops a new race on his doorstep and he has to work to keep them safe; giant monsters are coming out of the ocean to wreak havoc and destruction and he has to go help out; a nasty space vampire is running amok on Wistful and he needs to stop it; etc. It's not quite as explodey as (and quite a bit more articulate than) Rambo's adventures, but the outline is similar.
Each time Rohan intervenes, he takes on more and more responsibility for those around him. Unlike Rambo, who just leaves everyone else behind to get away from the world. Okay, I'm done talking about Rambo, let's focus on Rohan.
At the same time, Rohan's doing things to improve his power, to gain a better handle on it, so that he doesn't have to tap into his anger (that will then be hard to control), to use it in combat-like situations.
He's presented in this book with an opportunity—if not a responsibility—to choose another way. A way that means he won't only be a tow-chief anymore. That he'll embrace greater responsibility in the systems around Wistful (and connected to them by wormhole).
This really marks a step forward for the series and will set our Hybrid in a new direction for a while.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT EYES OF EMPIRE?
Dr. Simivar poked at one of his still-open wounds. “Ouch.”
“Another hour in the tank and you'll be ready to get dressed and walk around. If you can, try to avoid any significant exertion for another eight hours. Let someone else do the fighting for a while.”
“I'll try. How will I know if I moved around too much, or too soon?”
She shrugged. “Check your feet.”
“My feet?”
“Yes. If there are puddles of blood gathering around them, you've done too much. Come back and we'll get you stitched back together.”
While reading this, I remembered that I was close to the end of the first arc of the Hybrid Helix—but I wasn’t sure if that was this book or the next (and why bother looking that up when I could just keep reading?). In the last few chapters (maybe 50-100 pages) it sure felt like a conclusion of sorts was on the horizon, and even better—it felt earned, deserved, and organic. This isn’t a case of Berne deciding to change things up and forcing it on the series. Berne says this has been his plan all along, but Carlton Cuse and Damon Lindelof have rendered me incapable of trusting writers when they say things like that.
Anyway, it was a very satisfying way to take this book and series—I’m looking forward to seeing what the next arc looks like.
This is filled with all the trademark Berne flourishes—great action, great banter, interesting musical recommendations, crazy new alien creatures. Sure, the “cat people” are not that revolutionary—but their culture is (and Rohan’s misunderstanding of it was pretty amusing). And the fauna on their planet…ugh. I want to talk about it, but I don’t want to ruin anyone’s exposure to it. But they could be my favorite thing introduced in this series since we met the Ursans. I've been talking about the bigger arcs, and deeper things going on in the series for most of this post, but I shouldn't neglect to say that this is just a fun read. Whatever else Berne does, that is preeminent in his books.
We also meet a disturbing new representative of the il’Drach Empire. Each time I think the Empire is as distasteful and horrible as it can be, Berne finds a new and interesting way to prove that I’m wrong. Okay, okay, they have their whole "for the greater good" justification—or really, "the lesser of two evils" justification. But, I'm not entirely certain that I buy it. I'm thinking there has to be a better way. Another way. I expect that within the next 17 books, we're going to find out what that way is.
Really, there’s no reason (unless you’re following stupid self-imposed rules) to not grab this book if you’re into super-hero fiction, space opera, witty dialogue (internal or otherwise), and/or good fun.
June 5, 2025
One of the elements I love about the Hybrid Helix is that it is a consistently dark series that, nevertheless, has an upbeat tone. It's very much like INVINCIBLE and this is a work that continues that sort of feeling. In this case, a planet has been subject to genocide and the refugees want to resettle on the space station but what sort of cost might that entail? Also, how does it deal with Hyperion's recent actions? Rohan is not the kind of guy who likes making these sorts of decisions and it works very well when he's forced to.
August 24, 2026
The Hybrid Helix series continues to be one of my favorites and it keeps getting better with each book so far. If you’re not reading it, jump in now. Eyes of Empire was a blast.
85/100
4.5/5 stars
85/100
4.5/5 stars
August 30, 2024
JCM Berne’s space opera series may be a lighthearted superhero comedy on the surface, but when you dig a little, the themes keep getting deeper and deeper. In Eyes of Empire, the fifth installment, we have a refugee crisis following the destruction of their planet, wrought by an Assessor working for the il’Drach. The Assessor is an interesting new character, not least because it inhabits two bodies at once, a male and a female, both able to talk and carry out independent tasks, but also because of its ‘only following orders’ mentality.
We also have the return of depressed sentient space station, Repentant, who is training his ‘son’, an overpowered warship, to kill him. Rohan takes it upon himself to find solutions for both of these crises while also investigating a new planet, Pilli 4, populated by super-powered cat people, the il’Zkin. Becoming embroiled in their culture and laws makes for some action-packed fight scenes in the early part of the book. A cultural misunderstanding of what is happening between two male cat-people on the newly discovered planet causes Rohan to lead the charge for gay rights on their behalf, when there really was no need in the first place.
Katya, an il’Zkin who follows Rohan back to Wistful in order to protect him, is my favourite new character. Her tendency to touch and lick newcomers and her often-voiced opinion that non-furry Rohan is very ugly are hilarious. Ang the Ursan on the other hand is just the right kind of furry for her and he quickly falls in love with her.
In addition to the cat-people, a new hybrid warrior is introduced who seems to take an immediate shine to Rohan when they meet on Wistful. Rohan’s girlfriend Tamaralinth is away visiting family and his powers of restraint are sorely tested. There is some dramatic irony involved as she searches for information about her missing sister, who appeared in an earlier book.
As usual, Rohan manages to expertly juggle all manner of problems. With the help of his found family on Wistful and his spaceship, Void’s Shadow, he comes up with many death-defying, yet viable solutions for them. I picture Void’s Shadow as a kind of eager puppy who can’t wait to see Rohan, but also enjoys flying off to play in between his visits. The spaceship is one of my favourite characters in a series in which the characterisation is very strong. All of them feel many-layered and have depth of personality, which is one of the things I enjoy most about Berne’s writing. There are plenty of fights for those who enjoy action, but personally I relish the psychological side of these people and relationships that Berne has created.
We also have the return of depressed sentient space station, Repentant, who is training his ‘son’, an overpowered warship, to kill him. Rohan takes it upon himself to find solutions for both of these crises while also investigating a new planet, Pilli 4, populated by super-powered cat people, the il’Zkin. Becoming embroiled in their culture and laws makes for some action-packed fight scenes in the early part of the book. A cultural misunderstanding of what is happening between two male cat-people on the newly discovered planet causes Rohan to lead the charge for gay rights on their behalf, when there really was no need in the first place.
Katya, an il’Zkin who follows Rohan back to Wistful in order to protect him, is my favourite new character. Her tendency to touch and lick newcomers and her often-voiced opinion that non-furry Rohan is very ugly are hilarious. Ang the Ursan on the other hand is just the right kind of furry for her and he quickly falls in love with her.
In addition to the cat-people, a new hybrid warrior is introduced who seems to take an immediate shine to Rohan when they meet on Wistful. Rohan’s girlfriend Tamaralinth is away visiting family and his powers of restraint are sorely tested. There is some dramatic irony involved as she searches for information about her missing sister, who appeared in an earlier book.
As usual, Rohan manages to expertly juggle all manner of problems. With the help of his found family on Wistful and his spaceship, Void’s Shadow, he comes up with many death-defying, yet viable solutions for them. I picture Void’s Shadow as a kind of eager puppy who can’t wait to see Rohan, but also enjoys flying off to play in between his visits. The spaceship is one of my favourite characters in a series in which the characterisation is very strong. All of them feel many-layered and have depth of personality, which is one of the things I enjoy most about Berne’s writing. There are plenty of fights for those who enjoy action, but personally I relish the psychological side of these people and relationships that Berne has created.
September 10, 2024
Yes, it's...
Formulaic. Rohan struggles, fights, fails. His friends love him and dump on him in equal measures. Yes, the humor is lame. But it works. Rohan is a superhuman mensch trying to be a good guy in a universe that wants him to be a weapon of mass destruction. And every outing he grows a little more. Which is more than we can say for the protagonists in some other SF series. It's candy and Halloween is coming. Eat up!
Formulaic. Rohan struggles, fights, fails. His friends love him and dump on him in equal measures. Yes, the humor is lame. But it works. Rohan is a superhuman mensch trying to be a good guy in a universe that wants him to be a weapon of mass destruction. And every outing he grows a little more. Which is more than we can say for the protagonists in some other SF series. It's candy and Halloween is coming. Eat up!
October 7, 2024
If you're reading a review of the 5th book in a series, you probably already know what this series is about. This was a pretty good new book in the series. It felt a little longer than the other books. There's a new species and several new characters that were really interesting. The ending was pretty crazy and will really change the course of the series, I think. If you've read this far in the series, you should just keep going. You won't be disappointed.
September 13, 2025
Book five, and the author keeps building expectations with this story. There is still much to uncover in the universe, secrets, and correlations in it. It is even better how there is room for our protagonists to grow in maturity and roles. As always, the character development in the series is one of the best aspects of the story, as it is the world building.
August 27, 2024
I got an opportunity to beta read this book - and boy o boy, this book was a blast end to end. In fact, I would say this is the best book in the series so far and the growth Rohan goes through is quite incredible and organic.
August 22, 2024
Buckle up and hold onto your butts, Rohan is back and better than ever.
January 15, 2025
Turn 5 of the Hybrid Helix was a genius conclusion to the first arc of J.C.M. Berne’s series. I truly enjoyed this book. The themes of love and acceptance really resonated with me. There are parts in this book where Rohan could have chosen a darker path, and easier path, but he doesn’t. He chooses a path that will heal people and will show them kindness. In an industry that seems to be focused more on dark gritty tales where the protagonist doesn’t choose the nice path, this story is so refreshing and wonderful. Rohan is a hero who loves and cares deeply. He is someone who knows how to take the easy way out and is even tempted by it, which makes his character more nuanced as he struggles with what is right and what is easy. Book five showcases all the things that Rohan aspires to be, I believe, and he has succeeded in those aspirations throughout. There is a part at the end of the story that really got to me. I not only deeply enjoyed it, but I also got chills as Rohan showed mercy to someone who he didn’t need to, and he not only did that, he gave them a new home and a family. It was an awesome scene in the book, and its parts like that I truly gravitate too as they renew my hope in the goodness of people, and the idea that even superpowered tow chiefs can have more than just a good heart, they have kindness and love that they are not afraid to give to others unconditionally. This was a wonderful book, and I can’t recommend it highly enough! I can’t wait to read more of Rohan’s journey as the whole thing ended in a cliff hanger.
April 8, 2025
Those books are just getting better and better with each turn of the Helix. Rohan is such a nice and complex character. Also cat people! Katya is an amazing addition to Rohan's assembled family. I really like Rohan's relationship with his ship. The whole father-daughter dynamics. I just wish there was some explanation how Rohan and Tamara got back together. It was too much of "happened behind the scenes" for my taste.
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