Book Review: The Scout by D.L.Cross #sci-fi #aliens

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Mae Clair

Closing out my July reading is a standalone novella that I was super-excited to have land on my Kindle. D.L.Cross gives us a peak into both the Invasion Universe and her Astral Conspiracy series (I devoured the first and am eagerly awaiting the second). Before I give you my review, here’s the blurb:

The aliens have landed. The humans are panicking. The scouts have been sent.

J’s mission is clear — find an alien outpost, observe, report back. Simple enough. It’s what he’s trained to do. But he’s always worked with his team, never as a party of one. Now he’s been sent out alone to blindly navigate a dense, dark forest until he finds his target. The dynamics are foreign to him, the stakes never higher. Resources are scarce. Comms are down.

And he’s found the enemy.

J is shocked when everyone’s true allegiances are revealed. And the consequences of betrayal will be deadly.

A short story set in the bestselling Invasion Universe, “The Scout” by D.L. Cross will have you hungering for more. Pick up your copy today!

And now my 5 star review:

An excellent short story that takes a look at what happens when alien cultures clash.

J is determined to complete his mission as a scout, gathering intel on an alien outpost, but the assignment grows murky when he connects with one of “the enemy.” The pace moves quickly, hurtling the reader toward a confrontation which addresses the nature of loyalties and betrayal.

A quick read, The Scout is part of the Invasion Universe, but stands perfectly on its own. The author also writes the Astral Conspiracy series of novels which made this bit of short fiction a treat for someone eagerly awaiting book 2 in that series. New fans and established fans will enjoy The Scout for its fluid story, tight plot, and polished writing. You can’t go wrong with anything from the pen of D.L. Cross!

Ready to blast off with an out of this world read? You can grab your copy of The Scout: Dark Crossings at this Universal Purchase Link.

Happy reading!

80 thoughts on “Book Review: The Scout by D.L.Cross #sci-fi #aliens”

harmonykentonline on July 31, 2019 at 5:11 AM said:

Great review, Mae. I read The Scout and loved it. Can’t wait for the next books in the Astral Series from this author! Reblogged on: https://harmonykent.co.uk/book-review-the-scout-by-d-l-cross-sci-fi-aliens/

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:06 AM said:
  
  Thanks so much, Harmony!
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:03 PM said:
  
  I’m looking forward to more of the Astral Conspiracy series, too, Harmony. The Scout was a great treat to tide me over!
  
  Thanks for the reblog 🙂
  
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Priscilla Bettis on July 31, 2019 at 6:09 AM said:

Good review! I’m hoping The Scout will be Dear Husband and my next read together.

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:07 AM said:
  
  I love that you and your husband read together. And I hope you both enjoy the story.
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:04 PM said:
  
  Priscilla, I think it’s awesome you and your husband read together. You must have some great book discussions. I’m sure you’ll both enjoy The Scout! 🙂
  
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Theresa Everton Pulyer on July 31, 2019 at 6:50 AM said:

I’ve run across this short story recently and it definitely piqued my interest. I really need to add more short stories and short story collections to my TBR list! Great review, Mae.

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:09 AM said:
  
  My publisher encourages shorts because they might entice new readers to try a new author, they definitely keep fans interested during the lull between releases, and they really help the writer hone her craft. Shorts are wins for everyone, I think. Thanks, Theresa.
  
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  - Theresa Everton Pulyer on July 31, 2019 at 9:33 AM said:
    
    That’s great information, Staci. Thank you! 🙂
    
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:05 PM said:
  
  The Scout has been getting a lot of blog exposure lately, Tessa, and I was happy to add to it. When I’m in between series books, there’s nothing better than a short story or novella to fill the void. 🙂
  
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Joan Hall on July 31, 2019 at 7:33 AM said:

I loved The Scout as well as The Gate. Great review, Mae. I’m also looking forward to the next book of the series.

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:11 AM said:
  
  Thanks so much, Joan. And as you’re not a sci-fi fan, that really means a lot.
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:07 PM said:
  
  Two excellent reads for sure, Joan, I can’t wait to see what happens next! 🙂
  
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Teri Polen on July 31, 2019 at 8:35 AM said:

I haven’t gotten to The Scout yet, but just started The Gate a few days ago. I love it when an author gives you an ‘appetizer’ to hold you over until the next book.

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:12 AM said:
  
  I hope you’re enjoying The Gate. It was the first full-length sci-fi I wrote, and it only fueled the fire for me.
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:08 PM said:
  
  Absolutely. That’s how I feel, too, Teri.
  As for The Gate–wow!–that one blew me away. Between pace, plot, and characters, I could barely catch my breath!
  
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  - Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 12:54 PM said:
    
    Aww.
    
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Judi Lynn on July 31, 2019 at 8:58 AM said:

I really enjoy short fiction, and The Scout delivered. Gave a nice, solid punch in a fast, easy read. Great review, as always. You have a gift.

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:12 AM said:
  
  I love that you enjoyed the story. And I’m delighted with Mae’s review—she does have a gift.
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:09 PM said:
  
  Aw, thanks, Judi. I’ve got to give credit to the authors who deliver such exceptional stories in order for me to write reviews. I loved your description of The Scout giving a “solid punch in a fast, easy read.” So true!
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:11 PM said:
  
  That has me blushing…but it’s the work of the author who prompts those reviews. I loved The Scout!
  
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Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 9:06 AM said:

Your words inspire me to write faster! Thanks for this amazing review and for sharing your thoughts with your readers.

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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:14 PM said:
  
  My pleasure to share. I love that you’re now writing science fiction. You do it so freaking well! And I know a LOT of readers who would love for you to write faster 🙂
  
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  - Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 12:55 PM said:
    
    There’s a chance my release dates are being moved up, so those readers may just get their wish!
    
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  - Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 1:33 PM said:
    
    I’m doing a Snoopy dance!
    
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  - Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 3:30 PM said:
    
    I appreciate that, but it has me a little frazzled!
    
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  - Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 3:31 PM said:
    
    I bet! 🙂
    
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Natalie Ducey on July 31, 2019 at 9:43 AM said:

Awesome review to share, Mae. Bravo to Staci! 🙂

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 10:15 AM said:
  
  Thanks, Natalie. 👽
  
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:14 PM said:
  
  I’m glad you stopped by to check out the review, Natalie. The Scout is awesome!
  
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coldhandboyack on July 31, 2019 at 9:53 AM said:

Outstanding review. I intend to pick this one up over vacation. I can’t write every hour. I like the comments about shorts that enhance the series. Hope that holds true for more novel length products too. (Serang)

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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 10:16 AM said:
  
  Thanks, Craig. I hope you enjoy this one.
  
  And I know Serang will be a huge hit!
  
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  - coldhandboyack on July 31, 2019 at 10:16 AM said:
    
    Fingers crossed.
    
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:17 PM said:
  
  What a great reading choice for your vacation, Craig! I’m sure you will love The Scout.
  
  And I am of the absolute opinion that novellas do the same as shorts in upholding a series. Serang will kick butt (what better description for her, LOL!)
  
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  - Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 12:55 PM said:
    
    Perfect description for her story.
    
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  - coldhandboyack on July 31, 2019 at 1:03 PM said:
    
    Ha! Thanks.
    
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Jacqui Murray on July 31, 2019 at 10:24 AM said:

Congrats, Staci! If this is anything like your last book, I really need to trot on over and buy it.

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- Jacqui Murray on July 31, 2019 at 10:25 AM said:
  
  Done–can’t wait to read it!
  
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  - Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:20 PM said:
    
    Yay! Can’t wait to see what you think of it. Happy reading!
    
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  - Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 12:56 PM said:
    
    That made my day, Jacqui. Thank you. I hope you like it!
    
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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:19 PM said:
  
  You’re sure to love it, Jacqui. Aliens, invasion—a perfect recipe for a short but intriguing read! 🙂
  
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John W. Howell on July 31, 2019 at 10:51 AM said:

Good review, Mae. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 12:20 PM said:
  
  My pleasure, John. Thanks for visiting!
  
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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 12:56 PM said:
  
  Thanks, John!
  
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Jacquie Biggar on July 31, 2019 at 1:26 PM said:

This cover gives a real sense of the darkness in the storyline. Fabulous review, Mae, congrats and well deserved to Staci!

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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 1:34 PM said:
  
  You’re so right about that cover. Great take on it, Jacquie! 🙂
  
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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 3:31 PM said:
  
  The cover is getting a lot of love. I’ll be sure to pass on the compliments. Thanks, Jacquie.
  
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Michele Jones on July 31, 2019 at 2:39 PM said:

Great review. I picked up my copy and will be reading it shortly.

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- Mae Clair on July 31, 2019 at 3:13 PM said:
  
  Awesome, Michele. It’s a wonderful read!!
  
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- Staci Troilo on July 31, 2019 at 3:31 PM said:
  
  Thanks, Michele!
  
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D.L. Finn, Author on July 31, 2019 at 10:44 PM said:

This is at the top of my list to read. Great review!

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- Staci Troilo on August 1, 2019 at 1:02 AM said:
  
  Music to my ears, Denise. Thanks. I hope you enjoy it.
  
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- Mae Clair on August 1, 2019 at 7:34 AM said:
  
  Oooh, wonderful! I know you will enjoy it, Denise!
  
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Jan Sikes on July 31, 2019 at 11:33 PM said:

This sounds like a GREAT read, Mae! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

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- Staci Troilo on August 1, 2019 at 1:03 AM said:
  
  Thanks, Jan!
  
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- Mae Clair on August 1, 2019 at 7:35 AM said:
  
  I really enjoyed it, Jan. I loved the first Astral Conspiracy book and this was a nice short read to hold me over until book two releases.
  Thanks for visiting!
  
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Jessica Bakkers on August 1, 2019 at 12:24 AM said:

Just hanging to get into this series. I’m bogged down in the eighth book in a series (also the last book), so soon I’ll be free to devour everything else on my list… including this series!

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- Staci Troilo on August 1, 2019 at 1:03 AM said:
  
  I’m delighted to know these posts and reviews have sparked your interest, Jessica. Thanks.
  
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  - Jessica Bakkers on August 1, 2019 at 1:07 AM said:
    
    As I said, I’m a sci-fi fan from way back so it didn’t take much ‘spark’ to get me interested.
    
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- Mae Clair on August 1, 2019 at 7:37 AM said:
  
  Happy reading, Jess. You are sure to love this novella and the world in which it is set. Right now I’m eagerly looking forward to Astral Conspiracy book 2!
  
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robertawrites235681907 on August 2, 2019 at 12:23 AM said:

I was pleased to see this great review, Mae. I have this next on my TBR.

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- Mae Clair on August 2, 2019 at 7:41 AM said:
  
  That’s fantastic, Robbie. It’s a short but highly entertaining read!
  
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- Staci Troilo on August 2, 2019 at 8:11 AM said:
  
  Thanks, Robbie. I hope you enjoy it.
  
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Marcia on August 3, 2019 at 7:33 AM said:

Can’t believe I almost missed this great review, Mae! I’ve got this one on my Kindle already, and it just jumped up to first place! And like you, I’m eagerly awaiting the next adventure in the Astral Conspiracy series! So many books, so little time. The universal complaint of every writer/reader I know. 🙂 ❤

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- Staci Troilo on August 3, 2019 at 8:29 AM said:
  
  Aww. I jumped up in the queue? That’s so sweet. Thank you, Marcia. I hope it lives up to your expectations.
  
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  - Marcia on August 3, 2019 at 8:33 AM said:
    
    I’m engrossed in a series right now that I’m almost finished with, but after the 4th book (which I read in bed last night, biting my nails to the quick), I need a break, and a shorter book would work great. So, you’re in! The Scout: Dark Crossings it is! 😀 ❤
    
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  - Staci Troilo on August 3, 2019 at 8:34 AM said:
    
    Humbled and delighted. Looking forward to your thoughts. (I want to hear about this engrossing series, too.)
    
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  - Mae Clair on August 3, 2019 at 5:04 PM said:
    
    I sucked Marica into the Pendergast series by Preston & Child. They have another series (Gideon Crew) which she is now sucking me into. I know she is devouring the books at light speed, LOL!
    
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- Mae Clair on August 3, 2019 at 5:05 PM said:
  
  You will love The Scout. I know you already enjoyed Astral Conspiracy book #1 and this is a nice tie-in.
  Yes, so many books, so little time. I just bought two of the Gideon books yesterday!
  
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  - Marcia on August 3, 2019 at 8:38 PM said:
    
    I read it after dinner tonight, and I LOVED it! So much fun. I’m a big fan of well-done short stories and have quite a few anthologies of them on my shelves. This one is perfection. Great job by D. L. Cross and I agree 100% with your review, Mae! Tomorrow, I’m going to start a list of all the reviews I need to leave, and start getting them DONE, and this will be one of them, along with The Gate!
    
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  - Mae Clair on August 5, 2019 at 2:10 PM said:
    
    I knew you’d enjoy The Scout, Marcia 🙂
    
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  - Staci Troilo on August 3, 2019 at 9:32 PM said:
    
    That made my evening, Marcia. Thank you!
    
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Flossie Benton Rogers on August 4, 2019 at 11:38 PM said:

I’m going to have to check this one out, Mae. You have caught my interest!

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- Staci Troilo on August 5, 2019 at 8:47 AM said:
  
  Thank you. If you do, I hope you enjoy it.
  
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- Mae Clair on August 5, 2019 at 2:08 PM said:
  
  Great to hear. It’s a fabulous read!
  
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Julie Holmes, author on August 11, 2019 at 6:50 PM said:

Great review, Mae! I can’t wait to get to the Astral Conspiracy series on my TBR. 😀

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- Staci Troilo on August 11, 2019 at 9:13 PM said:
  
  I’m over the moon to hear that, Julie. Thanks. 👽
  
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- Mae Clair on August 12, 2019 at 10:52 AM said:
  
  Fantastic, Julie!
  
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