Expedition: A first-contact, colony ship, space opera. (Galactic Neighborhood Book 1) by Alexander Elliott

The humans of Earth planned for a long intergalactic journey. What they didn’t plan on was running into the neighbors. In 2096 starship Expedition set out on a centuries-long search for a suitable world to colonize. Assisted by Mosis, a sentient AI, the unsuspecting crew is awakened by an alien transmission, leading them to the remains of the Vingah race, preserved in stasis. With a rescue mission in full swing, the allies are challenged by an aggressive species, bent on acquiring the Vingah’s secrets. The confrontation’s outcome will change the destinies of three disparate races, allowing the victors to spread their influence throughout the galaxy. Expedition is the first book in the Galactic Neighborhood trilogy—three Earth starships sent out into the void to find new worlds for man to colonize. Though their futures are ultimately intertwined, each faces the uncertainties of a galaxy filled with wonder, danger, and incredible opportunities. Author’s note: the books should be read in order for the complete backstory.