How to Read the Free Trader Series
If you are looking to dive into Craig Martelle's post-apocalyptic science fiction universe, the path is straightforward. The series follows a continuous narrative arc detailing the rebuilding of civilization on the colonized world of Cygnus VII. Because of this serialization, you should read the books in their publication order, which also matches the chronological progression of the story.
Once you finish the main nine-book series, you can seamlessly transition to the sequel series, the Cygnus Space Opera, which picks up over a century later and follows the descendants of the original characters as they return to space.
The Recommended Reading Order
- The Free Trader of Warren Deep (2016) – The journey begins as Braden and his telepathic Hillcat, G-War, venture across the deserts of Cygnus VII to establish trade routes and uncover ancient technology.
- The Free Trader of Planet Vii (2016) – Braden and Micah work to unite the southern communities while navigating the dangerous power of rediscovered 'Old Tech.'
- Adventures on RV Traveler (2016) – The crew takes to the skies to expand their trade network, encountering new factions and challenges.
- Battle for the Amazon (2016) – The team ventures into a lush, hostile jungle environment to face off against oppressive regional overlords.
- Free the North! (2016) – A push to overthrow a tyrannical governor in order to establish free trade and restore justice to the northern regions.
- Free Trader on the High Seas (2016) – The trade routes expand to the oceans, bringing new maritime dangers and unique civilizations.
- Southern Discontent (2018) – A raid targeting lightning spears sparks a major conflict between humanity and the Wolfoids, forcing Braden and Micah to track down the instigators.
- The Great Cat Rebellion (2018) – The telepathic Hillcats, led by the Golden Warrior (G-War), take center stage to bring lasting peace to their fractured world.
- Return to the Traveler (2018) – The final installment of the main series, focusing on securing the ancient spaceship Traveler and preparing humanity for its return to the stars.
The Sequel: Cygnus Space Opera
For readers who want to know what happens next, Craig Martelle wrote a four-book sequel series set roughly a hundred years after the events of Return to the Traveler. This series follows the descendants of Braden and Micah as they take the starship into the deep unknown, searching for humanity's lost cradle, Earth. It features the same blend of sci-fi adventure, exploration, and loyal telepathic companions.
- Cygnus Rising: Humanity Returns to Space
- Cygnus Expanding: Humanity Fights for Freedom
- Cygnus Arrives: Humanity Returns Home
- Cygnus Returns: Humanity Fights for Freedom
What to Know Before You Start
Craig Martelle, a retired Marine Corps veteran, drew heavy inspiration from classic science fiction writers like Andre Norton and Anne McCaffrey, as well as classic tabletop role-playing games like Gamma World. Instead of focusing on space battles and high-tech military conflicts, the series is a hopeful, character-driven story about leadership, trust, ethics, and interspecies cooperation.
The bond between the human traders and the telepathic Hillcats is the emotional anchor of the entire saga. If you enjoy classic 'cozy' sci-fi adventure with clear moral boundaries and a focus on rebuilding rather than destruction, this series is a perfect fit.