Here is a list of the books in the seriees with some thoughts on each:
Freedom Flight is probably the poorest book in the series, but it was, after all, the first WC book in a time when the series was not as well developed so . C
End Run is Forstchens's first WC book-- and quite a good one, as well. Some fans consider it one of the best in the series. A
Fleet Action is one of my favorite books. It is also the favorite of many other fans. Many book staples of Forstchen were introduced here. A+
I have not yet read the Wing3 novel.
I have only read pieces of the WC4N. This novel has generated quite a bit of controversy over some various errors with the game, however. And from what I here, it is one of the poorer novels, as well.
Action Stations was a decent action read. The characters, in my opinion, did not quite have as much depth in this book, but it was a good read. The plot is basically Pearl Harbor in space and the usual Forstchen "historical references" are in place. B+
False Colors is one of my favorite rads. It is the largest book in the series and it is a bit slower, but it has scores of memorable characters, and it reveals plenty of insight into Tolwyn's mind and the general post-war era. A
I have not read the movie novel yet, but I think it is generally in agreement that, story wise, it is superior to the movie.
I have not read all of Pilgrim Stars either, but it appears to be a good book with a devoloped storyline and lots of action. Note: Of course this book is all about Pilgrims, so those that did not like that concept can find plenty more to dislike in this book.
While there is no harm in reading AS after FC, I would read Action Stations before False Colors. It helped to enhace come of the characters. And the events of AS were, infact, referred or hinted at twice in FC.