Break Out - Leonard Gaultois - Bog

Having already fended off planetary destruction by a malicious alien race, the denizens of Earth are now keenly aware that they are not alone in the universe. The Earth Protection Services (EPS) has been established, and for the first time, humans are braving the dark regions of space to meet other races, both friendly and dangerous. In due time, it is expected that Earth will become part of the Federation, linked to other solar systems through money and trade-but this transition will not come easily.
Dr. Doug Hansen is the captain of the Ranger, Earth's first spaceship capable of moving at speeds faster than light. While on a secret mission to salvage abandoned alien aircrafts, the ship intercepts a disturbing distress call from an uncharted solar system: "To whoever receives this message; we beseech you, please help us." Torn between his duties for the EPS, his desire to protect Earth from intergalactic threats, and his inclination to help the oppressed, Doug makes a decision that catalyzes a major shift in Earth's role in the known universe; alliances and enemies quickly begin to reveal themselves, all wanting to seize this opportunity.
As the second book in Leonard Gaultois' The Founders Series, Break Out expands the vast and fascinating universe introduced in Brain Drain (2014). With complex characters and believable futuristic technologies, Gaultois brings us a space opera full of unexpected turns, as well as a surprising glimpse into what politics would look like when expanded beyond the limits of Earth.