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The Forgotten Colony
Zach Croft wants to forget the Prescott colony ever happened.
He wants to forget the crimson sand dunes, violent dust storms, and meteor impacts. He wants to forget the sight of his neighbors bleeding from their eyes as boils ravaged their bodies. He wants to forget the fact that his best friend was left to die.
Most of all, he wants to forget that, without Prescott, humanity is doomed.
But when a Prescott dropship plummets from the sky twenty-three years later, he has no choice but to remember.
As Zach embarks on a life-or-death quest for answers about the dropship’s impossible return, he discovers something even more important: there is still hope for humanity’s survival.
With conditions rapidly worsening on Earth, he is in a race against time to return to Mars, finish the work that Prescott started, and save the human race from extinction. To do so, he must face the truth about what really happened in Prescott—a truth that calls into question everything he thinks he knows about who he is, who he trusts, and what he has done.
He wants to forget the crimson sand dunes, violent dust storms, and meteor impacts. He wants to forget the sight of his neighbors bleeding from their eyes as boils ravaged their bodies. He wants to forget the fact that his best friend was left to die.
Most of all, he wants to forget that, without Prescott, humanity is doomed.
But when a Prescott dropship plummets from the sky twenty-three years later, he has no choice but to remember.
As Zach embarks on a life-or-death quest for answers about the dropship’s impossible return, he discovers something even more important: there is still hope for humanity’s survival.
With conditions rapidly worsening on Earth, he is in a race against time to return to Mars, finish the work that Prescott started, and save the human race from extinction. To do so, he must face the truth about what really happened in Prescott—a truth that calls into question everything he thinks he knows about who he is, who he trusts, and what he has done.
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2023
571 people are currently reading
14474 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
Want to read
May 15, 2023knowing the cover is inspired by the 100/ raven & bellamy’s iconic shot at the end of s4 …I NEEEEEED THIS BOOK RN😭😭😭😭😭
May 9, 2023
Oh my freaking gosh!! Okay so this book was freaking amazing. There were so many parts where I just wanted to skip ahead to calm myself, but I am so glad I didn't!! Everything kept me surprised and the fact that this was written by a 16 year old is insane?? The ending had me on edge and so nervous and I wanted to throw my phone when it ended on a cliff hanger. On Instagram it is clarified over and over that there is no room for romance in the book since the world is ending, and I think I understand it now lol. Doesn't stop me from shipping Jason and Cora as well as Zach and Mabel lol. There were several points where I think more detail could've been added and a few clarification points, but it was so minor that you could just infer. I also only noticed one spelling error which made me happy haha. Overall, I highly recommend this book. For warning, there is a lot of language and death, as well as detailed descriptions of the sickness at points. Still recommend!!
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March 29, 2023I CAN'T WAIT TO READ THIS BOOK!!! AAAA
I JUST KNOW THIS IS GOING TO BE A MASTERPIECE 🗿👍
*oh and the bucket dude.... poor him 😔🙏*
I JUST KNOW THIS IS GOING TO BE A MASTERPIECE 🗿👍
*oh and the bucket dude.... poor him 😔🙏*
September 12, 2023
*For me, this novel was a DNF around a ⅓ of the way through*
I initially found out about this novel on Instagram through Ryder’s account. I was intrigued as it was being advertised as a sort of The 100 type vibe which is a show/trilogy that I have enjoyed in the past. Let me make myself clear, I am aware that the author of this novel is 16 years old. Yes, that is an absolutely amazing accomplishment. However, that does not mean that I am going to be any less critical than normal. Ryder, if you are reading this, I am proud of you and you should be incredibly proud of yourself.
That being said, here we go.
Plot/Worldbuilding : ⭐⭐
The basic gist of this story is that the world is ending. When our main character, Zach, was a child, a colony was created on Mars to harvest a material that would help save everyone by getting them to space. However, this mission failed miserably and Zach, now an adult, is still living with the trauma of this event. Even though he really wants to forget all that took place, he can’t because the living conditions on Earth are getting worse and the only way to save everyone is to attempt the mission again. Again, this is the basic gist of the story.
This novel is 496 pages long, I will say
again that I DNFed this book. I seriously just could not get into the story. The pacing, to me, felt weird. I genuinely got pretty bored as it felt like there were so many sections that just dragged on for too long. I’m a quick reader and it takes a lot to get me to DNF a book. Even though I didn’t read the whole thing, I still read enough that it should have been interesting.
If the characters are interesting, then typically, I’ll stick with it. That being said…
Characters :
The characters did not do it for me. I hate to say it but I genuinely did not give a shit about any of them. Character development? I didn’t see any, but it is entirely possible I just didn’t read enough into it? Based on other reviews, I think that statement still stands though.
Zach, our main character, doesn't have a lot going for him ...I just find him really tough to relate to in any way. I think that Ryder attempts to show his development through the flashbacks, but to me, these were really just a waste of space that didn’t add to the story. Backstory is awesome and needed…in this case, I just didn’t find it to really contribute a whole bunch. I can’t even remember enough about the other characters to even criticize them. I don’t remember because again, I just didn’t care about them.
Overall thoughts :
Ryder, this is a message for you lol. I can see that you have so much potential with your writing, it really just needs to be hashed out. And you’re so young! You’ve got time to grow and develop your skills as a writer so please take everything I say with a grain of salt. I write my “criticisms” so that you can use this feedback to grow as you keep writing. You haven’t lost a follower and I’m excited to see where your writing career takes you in the future.
I initially found out about this novel on Instagram through Ryder’s account. I was intrigued as it was being advertised as a sort of The 100 type vibe which is a show/trilogy that I have enjoyed in the past. Let me make myself clear, I am aware that the author of this novel is 16 years old. Yes, that is an absolutely amazing accomplishment. However, that does not mean that I am going to be any less critical than normal. Ryder, if you are reading this, I am proud of you and you should be incredibly proud of yourself.
That being said, here we go.
Plot/Worldbuilding : ⭐⭐
The basic gist of this story is that the world is ending. When our main character, Zach, was a child, a colony was created on Mars to harvest a material that would help save everyone by getting them to space. However, this mission failed miserably and Zach, now an adult, is still living with the trauma of this event. Even though he really wants to forget all that took place, he can’t because the living conditions on Earth are getting worse and the only way to save everyone is to attempt the mission again. Again, this is the basic gist of the story.
This novel is 496 pages long, I will say
again that I DNFed this book. I seriously just could not get into the story. The pacing, to me, felt weird. I genuinely got pretty bored as it felt like there were so many sections that just dragged on for too long. I’m a quick reader and it takes a lot to get me to DNF a book. Even though I didn’t read the whole thing, I still read enough that it should have been interesting.
If the characters are interesting, then typically, I’ll stick with it. That being said…
Characters :
The characters did not do it for me. I hate to say it but I genuinely did not give a shit about any of them. Character development? I didn’t see any, but it is entirely possible I just didn’t read enough into it? Based on other reviews, I think that statement still stands though.
Zach, our main character, doesn't have a lot going for him ...I just find him really tough to relate to in any way. I think that Ryder attempts to show his development through the flashbacks, but to me, these were really just a waste of space that didn’t add to the story. Backstory is awesome and needed…in this case, I just didn’t find it to really contribute a whole bunch. I can’t even remember enough about the other characters to even criticize them. I don’t remember because again, I just didn’t care about them.
Overall thoughts :
Ryder, this is a message for you lol. I can see that you have so much potential with your writing, it really just needs to be hashed out. And you’re so young! You’ve got time to grow and develop your skills as a writer so please take everything I say with a grain of salt. I write my “criticisms” so that you can use this feedback to grow as you keep writing. You haven’t lost a follower and I’m excited to see where your writing career takes you in the future.
November 18, 2024
firstly, what tf just happened?? secondly, what??
there was a fair bit of stuff i hated about this book.
the characters
omg were they insufferable. zach was bullheaded, selfish, and inconsiderate. he didn't seem to think about ryker's feelings at all cos ryker didn't want to go back to prescott for valid reasons and he just kept pushing him?? like he's been on there for 23 yrs bro stfu. i would be more convinced of their friendship if they actually spent time together alone and in peace(not in flashbacks). oh and zach was just so convinced he was right. yes, you're a harvard graduate. that doesn't make you the person with the best ideas alright?
cora didn't contribute anything, her pov's were useless and full of pining for zach 🙄 ryker was the only one i liked. carver was an okay villain, even if his actions were contradictory at times - it feels like the author's trying to redeem him, but it's not quite working.
the structure
lots of flashbacks. too much. it got confusing especially with the different pov's. and also they were annoying. like bro i don't want a chapter to end in a cliffhanger and then the next chapter is a flashback i want to 👏know👏what👏happens👏next👏
the pacing
i get this is a scifi/action/thriller/mystery, but stuff just kept happening, there was not a moment of peace for the characters, which got overwhelming, and so all the action scenes just felt the same.
plot
this was actually something i liked - i read this after seeing the author's reel about a character going on a planet and seeing blood on the walls. i think the premise is definitely interesting, but it ended up being disappointing bc the blood on the wall really got only 2 sentences of mention. the actual time the characters spend on prescott isn't a lot(~100 pages?). in truth most of the scenes were in the dropships or gateway.
worldbuilding
definitely a richly imagined world, but not communicated well to the reader. at first, i had no idea what the red plague actually was, why there were solar flares, until now i'm still a bit confused about the places (alpha cen, prescott, mars). the origins of the irogen is really cool tho, gotta give the author that.
verdict: this is definitely an impressive try for the author at his age(at my age wtf) but it could use more refining. and more likable characters.
there was a fair bit of stuff i hated about this book.
the characters
omg were they insufferable. zach was bullheaded, selfish, and inconsiderate. he didn't seem to think about ryker's feelings at all cos ryker didn't want to go back to prescott for valid reasons and he just kept pushing him?? like he's been on there for 23 yrs bro stfu. i would be more convinced of their friendship if they actually spent time together alone and in peace(not in flashbacks). oh and zach was just so convinced he was right. yes, you're a harvard graduate. that doesn't make you the person with the best ideas alright?
cora didn't contribute anything, her pov's were useless and full of pining for zach 🙄 ryker was the only one i liked. carver was an okay villain, even if his actions were contradictory at times - it feels like the author's trying to redeem him, but it's not quite working.
the structure
lots of flashbacks. too much. it got confusing especially with the different pov's. and also they were annoying. like bro i don't want a chapter to end in a cliffhanger and then the next chapter is a flashback i want to 👏know👏what👏happens👏next👏
the pacing
i get this is a scifi/action/thriller/mystery, but stuff just kept happening, there was not a moment of peace for the characters, which got overwhelming, and so all the action scenes just felt the same.
plot
this was actually something i liked - i read this after seeing the author's reel about a character going on a planet and seeing blood on the walls. i think the premise is definitely interesting, but it ended up being disappointing bc the blood on the wall really got only 2 sentences of mention. the actual time the characters spend on prescott isn't a lot(~100 pages?). in truth most of the scenes were in the dropships or gateway.
worldbuilding
definitely a richly imagined world, but not communicated well to the reader. at first, i had no idea what the red plague actually was, why there were solar flares, until now i'm still a bit confused about the places (alpha cen, prescott, mars). the origins of the irogen is really cool tho, gotta give the author that.
verdict: this is definitely an impressive try for the author at his age(at my age wtf) but it could use more refining. and more likable characters.
May 11, 2023
A great mix of sci fi, action, drama. The story goes back and forth between the past and the future, so we can see what motivates Zach and Ryder, and all their ups and downs. The plague is very interesting and I loved that part the most, I'm a sci fi nerd, and I wished the story didn't focus so much on the drama from the past, but I know that some will like that, it's just a matter of what appeals to you. It is a very easy and fast read, and I really enjoyed it. I can see this could be the start to a good series for a very talented young author.
August 21, 2024
I've been waiting to read this book, and as expected, it did not disappoint. It's everything you want in a dystopian/end of the world kind of novel, and the writing is truly phenomenal. JB Ryder proves that age is just a number when it comes to being an author, and he's a true inspiration to young aspiring authors (like me) who are hoping to self-publish in the future! A wonderful, thrilling, suspense-filled, action-packed read!
May 14, 2023
LOVED. Personally I’m not much of a sci-fi reader, but I loved this book. It has great characters, is action packed, and has a great storyline. I also loved the formatting of the book (with out spoiling), which made the story even better, and the plot twists (with ought spoiling) were amazing.
June 3, 2023
New favorite book 🫶🏻
RTC
RTC
September 13, 2023
Incredible. Loved it!!
May 11, 2023
I. Loved. This. Book.
For like the past 3 months I've been in a reading slump and i tried reading so many famous books, classic lit, murder mystery, romance, everything just trying to get out of the slump.
And this book finally did it.
And The cliffhanger???? I don't know how many years we'll have to wait for the second book 😩
*SPOILER REVIEW*
Don't read any further if you haven't read the book. Pls read it. It's worth it.
Can we talk about the parallels between Zach and Carver?? I loved it.
Both of them being the only person in their time at the OSE to suggest a different idea. The suggestion to let the people die peacefully in cryopods. But obviously they were so different in so many other ways. I absolutely despised Carver but at the same time loved how the author wrote him as a villain. The way in his mind he justified every wrong thing he did.
Absolutely loved Mabel. If Mabel had 0 fans consider me dead.
And Ryker??? His suggestion to use Carver for the blood?? Fucking love him. The best character hands down.💀
Didn't understand him getting angry at Zach for leaving him behind though. He quite literally decided to run out for the ring when only 30 seconds were left for the dropship to close🚶
Cora was good too but i don't think there were enough moments with her to get more of her character. Definitely empathize with her though. With what she went through having to take on the news of her dad and bsf being dead together.
And obviously Zach was amazing. His relationship with his father was so well written. The gentle way Quinton handled Zach even when he made a mistake.
Still not over Jason's death.
I was shipping him and Cora so bad.
For like the past 3 months I've been in a reading slump and i tried reading so many famous books, classic lit, murder mystery, romance, everything just trying to get out of the slump.
And this book finally did it.
And The cliffhanger???? I don't know how many years we'll have to wait for the second book 😩
*SPOILER REVIEW*
Don't read any further if you haven't read the book. Pls read it. It's worth it.
Can we talk about the parallels between Zach and Carver?? I loved it.
Both of them being the only person in their time at the OSE to suggest a different idea. The suggestion to let the people die peacefully in cryopods. But obviously they were so different in so many other ways. I absolutely despised Carver but at the same time loved how the author wrote him as a villain. The way in his mind he justified every wrong thing he did.
Absolutely loved Mabel. If Mabel had 0 fans consider me dead.
And Ryker??? His suggestion to use Carver for the blood?? Fucking love him. The best character hands down.💀
Didn't understand him getting angry at Zach for leaving him behind though. He quite literally decided to run out for the ring when only 30 seconds were left for the dropship to close🚶
Cora was good too but i don't think there were enough moments with her to get more of her character. Definitely empathize with her though. With what she went through having to take on the news of her dad and bsf being dead together.
And obviously Zach was amazing. His relationship with his father was so well written. The gentle way Quinton handled Zach even when he made a mistake.
Still not over Jason's death.
I was shipping him and Cora so bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2023
I think this book has a lot of potential to go from mediocre to amazing when the author gets older. I even feel bad rating it so low because the author is a highschool boy who has achieved more than i ever will probably when it comes to writing so Good job for pursuing your goals. However, personally, I just do not like consistent third person writing and i feel like so many opportunities to really immerse the readers were missed here. I also feel like the flashbacks were confusing and not planned out that well to match what’s actually happening in the story current/future time. Also coras pov so many times felt unnecessary because she plays no significant part other than I guess being zachs love interest for the second novel? I do think the next novels will only continue to get better as the author grows older and perfects his writing style.
March 9, 2025
⤿ 4.75 ⭑
I don’t have much to say to this one except that I loved it! I do wish it was more focused on the characters, especially since they’ll have been through so much trauma, but that’s just my personal preference to read character-driven stories. other than that, I don’t have any complaints. I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
I don’t have much to say to this one except that I loved it! I do wish it was more focused on the characters, especially since they’ll have been through so much trauma, but that’s just my personal preference to read character-driven stories. other than that, I don’t have any complaints. I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2023
Very good considering it was written by someone so young! Not really my genre but I still enjoyed it.
October 8, 2024
4,75 ⭐️
First of all I really, really liked the structure of the book (the constant switching between times and characters), and the plot and times I couldn’t stop reading.
It could have been a five star read but there were some tiny details that bothered me.
1. some info was kinda repetitive in way I thought „booy you just gave us this information like 2 pages ago why say it again right now“ but it wasn’t to bad I could overlook it the few times and like that the info stuck I guess.
2. I liked the characters but sometimes I thought some of them would be more important to get to know. Or like they were kind of important but you didn’t really get to form a deeper connection to them. That’s why (possible) deaths or certain actions didn’t really struck deep for me. I would have loved to get to know more about e.g Mabel, Rhea, Jason to form a deeper connection with them. And even with the main characters Zach and Ryker the connection could have been stronger. But even the „small“ insight I got from the characters I liked
3. somehow it felt like their problems all magically solved themselves or the Solution magically came to them idk how to describe it. The solution made sense don’t get me wrong and it still was really interesting and thrilling but it always happens so fast. Well the book is also fast paced that’s probably the reason
Even if the „flaws“ written out look way bigger then they actually were i really loved this book and going on this journey with the characters.
It was really thrilling and also shocking at some point and the ending left me wanting to read more.
The structure was executed beautifully. Even tho the perspective of time and character switched constantly it was really easy to understand and to remain the grander picture without getting lost.
I‘m amazed what a child/teenager was able to create and excited what amazing story’s J.B. Ryder will tell in the future (I really need a second part of this one tho!!!!)
First of all I really, really liked the structure of the book (the constant switching between times and characters), and the plot and times I couldn’t stop reading.
It could have been a five star read but there were some tiny details that bothered me.
1. some info was kinda repetitive in way I thought „booy you just gave us this information like 2 pages ago why say it again right now“ but it wasn’t to bad I could overlook it the few times and like that the info stuck I guess.
2. I liked the characters but sometimes I thought some of them would be more important to get to know. Or like they were kind of important but you didn’t really get to form a deeper connection to them. That’s why (possible) deaths or certain actions didn’t really struck deep for me. I would have loved to get to know more about e.g Mabel, Rhea, Jason to form a deeper connection with them. And even with the main characters Zach and Ryker the connection could have been stronger. But even the „small“ insight I got from the characters I liked
3. somehow it felt like their problems all magically solved themselves or the Solution magically came to them idk how to describe it. The solution made sense don’t get me wrong and it still was really interesting and thrilling but it always happens so fast. Well the book is also fast paced that’s probably the reason
Even if the „flaws“ written out look way bigger then they actually were i really loved this book and going on this journey with the characters.
It was really thrilling and also shocking at some point and the ending left me wanting to read more.
The structure was executed beautifully. Even tho the perspective of time and character switched constantly it was really easy to understand and to remain the grander picture without getting lost.
I‘m amazed what a child/teenager was able to create and excited what amazing story’s J.B. Ryder will tell in the future (I really need a second part of this one tho!!!!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2023
Promising debut novel!
I don't read much sci-fi, but I picked this up because it's a debut novel from a young indie author and the premise caught my attention. I really enjoyed this book and in fact powered through it in all of four? Five hours?
Some of the pacing in places felt a little janky as well as sentence structure, and the very first chapter had me somewhat confused as to what the characters were doing, but once I got a few chapters in I really got hooked! The premise and characters are interesting, and the worldbuilding and descriptions were super well-done.
Overall I liked this book and am excited to see what this author puts out in the future and watch them grow & improve!
I don't read much sci-fi, but I picked this up because it's a debut novel from a young indie author and the premise caught my attention. I really enjoyed this book and in fact powered through it in all of four? Five hours?
Some of the pacing in places felt a little janky as well as sentence structure, and the very first chapter had me somewhat confused as to what the characters were doing, but once I got a few chapters in I really got hooked! The premise and characters are interesting, and the worldbuilding and descriptions were super well-done.
Overall I liked this book and am excited to see what this author puts out in the future and watch them grow & improve!
May 28, 2024
ok. uh. that was an …. ending.
also what happened to carver and rhea. and theres no way rykers dead — I am so confident about this that when Zach was like “Rykers dead :(“ I was like “yeah. fucking no.”
yk why?? bc ive learned. ive been reading long enough to know
no body = not dead
also what happened to carver and rhea. and theres no way rykers dead — I am so confident about this that when Zach was like “Rykers dead :(“ I was like “yeah. fucking no.”
yk why?? bc ive learned. ive been reading long enough to know
no body = not dead
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
August 28, 2024Should i read this next?🤭 I saw this all over my Instagram page several times and i find it really intriguing ( and damn its written by someone my age- what am i doing with my life?🧍♀️)
November 1, 2024
When I chose to read this book, I had no expectations. On the one hand, I love dystopia, especially when it combines space travel with it, but on the other hand, not many people have read this book, and it was written by someone my age.
Now that I have read The Forgotten Colony, I think all those great out-of-the-world plot twists could only have been written from a child's mind, in other words, the fact that Ryder started writing this at 12 gives the book a unique twist (which made the book so much better).
The writing was not that developed in the first few chapters of the book but by the time I got to the end, the writing style got more complex and detailed and it was hard to tell that this was his first book.
I find there is something beautiful about dystopian books. They show what could happen in the future and even though they are fun to read, it would be a nightmare if it were real. That's why I find them fascinating. They show that we should do better as a human race and as individuals.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves The 100 or Lost in Space. It has the resilience of both series and the crazy creative plots. If I could have it my way I would love for The Forgotten Colony to become a series with 30 episodes per season, I guarantee you it would be a killer. And if that doesn't convince you, then the fact that the cover is inspired by the scene of Bellamy and Raven looking at Earth from the Ark should convince you.
This book makes me believe anything is possible and that there is always another way to solve a problem. I still can't believe I finished it, I wish I had the second one in my hands already.
"see you on the other side"
Now that I have read The Forgotten Colony, I think all those great out-of-the-world plot twists could only have been written from a child's mind, in other words, the fact that Ryder started writing this at 12 gives the book a unique twist (which made the book so much better).
The writing was not that developed in the first few chapters of the book but by the time I got to the end, the writing style got more complex and detailed and it was hard to tell that this was his first book.
I find there is something beautiful about dystopian books. They show what could happen in the future and even though they are fun to read, it would be a nightmare if it were real. That's why I find them fascinating. They show that we should do better as a human race and as individuals.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves The 100 or Lost in Space. It has the resilience of both series and the crazy creative plots. If I could have it my way I would love for The Forgotten Colony to become a series with 30 episodes per season, I guarantee you it would be a killer. And if that doesn't convince you, then the fact that the cover is inspired by the scene of Bellamy and Raven looking at Earth from the Ark should convince you.
This book makes me believe anything is possible and that there is always another way to solve a problem. I still can't believe I finished it, I wish I had the second one in my hands already.
"see you on the other side"
August 18, 2024
HOLY MUFFINS THIS WAS FIRE!????
4.5⭐️ i was hesitant to start this book thinking the writing wouldn’t satisfy me, but it was actually INSANELY GOOD. from the writing to the story, adding the plot twists and characters, i loved everything about it. its actually way better than books from popular authors, and that speaks volumes…
oh and the -0.5 was for killing off THAT character. yk who im talking about.
4.5⭐️ i was hesitant to start this book thinking the writing wouldn’t satisfy me, but it was actually INSANELY GOOD. from the writing to the story, adding the plot twists and characters, i loved everything about it. its actually way better than books from popular authors, and that speaks volumes…
oh and the -0.5 was for killing off THAT character. yk who im talking about.
September 29, 2024
A book this good shouldn't be so cheap. Was on the edge of my seat the whole read. I was left surprised more than once as I worked through the pages. The ending left me on the edge of my seat and so excited.
October 9, 2023
(3.75) took me a while to get into it but it was really good other than that!!
June 4, 2025
3/5 stars ★★★☆☆
꒰ 2025 book #18/30 ꒱
✮ read on kindle
I've been wanting to read this ever since I first saw its promo and release back in 2023, but never got the chance. Luckily, it was free on kindle recently so I finally sat down with it. Even though I'm not really a sci-fi/dystopian reader, I enjoyed this!
This book is clearly very thought out and very impressive as it was written and published by someone who was 16 at the time. I was very immersed in the plot, as it was extremely action-packed. That being said, I believe there are a few things to improve on.
Many things went unexplained and brushed over in the plot, such as the solar flares and their time on Mars in the Prescott colony. I just kinda wish they were explained more. Also, for a book titled "The Forgotten Colony," they really don't spend much time physically on Mars, rather they explored Prescott through flashbacks. This made it a bit confusing at times, especially with the odd pacing. I wasn't a fan of the constant flashbacks, as it often cut through cliffhangers and created some awkwardness in the timeline. Also, the characters weren't super fleshed out other than Carver and Ryker. Zach felt a little one-dimensional for a protagonist, so I think there could've been more depth in his character. And Cora's character kinda just revolved around Zach...
Ryker was my favorite character so I was upset & confused when he died at the end :( but seeing as his body wasn't officially found and his death was super brushed over & happened so quickly, I think he's still alive and will come back in the sequel as a plot twist (might be wishful thinking because I love Ryker).
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book even though I'm not really a sci-fi fan. Also may be why I wished the action would slow down a bit, because there were too many things happening one after the other. But I applaud the author; awesome debut!
꒰ 2025 book #18/30 ꒱
✮ read on kindle
I've been wanting to read this ever since I first saw its promo and release back in 2023, but never got the chance. Luckily, it was free on kindle recently so I finally sat down with it. Even though I'm not really a sci-fi/dystopian reader, I enjoyed this!
This book is clearly very thought out and very impressive as it was written and published by someone who was 16 at the time. I was very immersed in the plot, as it was extremely action-packed. That being said, I believe there are a few things to improve on.
Many things went unexplained and brushed over in the plot, such as the solar flares and their time on Mars in the Prescott colony. I just kinda wish they were explained more. Also, for a book titled "The Forgotten Colony," they really don't spend much time physically on Mars, rather they explored Prescott through flashbacks. This made it a bit confusing at times, especially with the odd pacing. I wasn't a fan of the constant flashbacks, as it often cut through cliffhangers and created some awkwardness in the timeline. Also, the characters weren't super fleshed out other than Carver and Ryker. Zach felt a little one-dimensional for a protagonist, so I think there could've been more depth in his character. And Cora's character kinda just revolved around Zach...
Ryker was my favorite character so I was upset & confused when he died at the end :( but seeing as his body wasn't officially found and his death was super brushed over & happened so quickly, I think he's still alive and will come back in the sequel as a plot twist (might be wishful thinking because I love Ryker).
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book even though I'm not really a sci-fi fan. Also may be why I wished the action would slow down a bit, because there were too many things happening one after the other. But I applaud the author; awesome debut!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
3.5 stars
When Zach was a child, his parents and other scientists formed the Prescott Colony in hopes of mining resources and finding a new place for humans to flourish. But something unexpected happened: the red death swept through the Prescott colony, and few people escaped with their lives.
The children of the scientists of the Prescott Colony mission grew up to become scientists and followed in their parent’s footsteps. So, in walks, the second generation, and their solution to saving humanity from extinction is the same one that didn’t work for their parents. Well, really it is Zach pushing everyone in a single direction because he refuses to accept the possibility that he could be wrong and that maybe he doesn’t know what is best for everyone. So, I guess Zach does have a flaw, it's just not an endearing one.
Zach Croft needed a strong character fault that embraced development. He was stubborn, but he didn't grow or navigate from it. He felt underdeveloped. Cora was more developed, and she was only in maybe a quarter of the book.
Ryker was by far my favorite character. He felt real. His anger. His choices.
Carver has some depth but what villain doesn’t? Still, the reader is left with questions about his actions and what makes him tick.
First-person POV would have made this story easier to connect to. Some characters almost die... others do die... And it was just a shoulder shrug. I feel like another round of developmental editing could have really eliminated some of these issues and possibly the biggest issue: characterization.
The plot and the rising action are entertaining, but what’s the point if you don’t care who is experiencing it?
I wish people would stop commenting on this author's age in relation to their rating, it feels degrading. Just say you see potential in him versus 'his writing is good writing for a 16-year-old'.
Will I hear out this series? Yes, I will read book two, I just won’t rush to the store to buy it. I have noticed a trend with indie writers writing series lately: book two turning out stronger and better than book one—and I don’t doubt this to be true for the next book of this series.
When Zach was a child, his parents and other scientists formed the Prescott Colony in hopes of mining resources and finding a new place for humans to flourish. But something unexpected happened: the red death swept through the Prescott colony, and few people escaped with their lives.
The children of the scientists of the Prescott Colony mission grew up to become scientists and followed in their parent’s footsteps. So, in walks, the second generation, and their solution to saving humanity from extinction is the same one that didn’t work for their parents. Well, really it is Zach pushing everyone in a single direction because he refuses to accept the possibility that he could be wrong and that maybe he doesn’t know what is best for everyone. So, I guess Zach does have a flaw, it's just not an endearing one.
Zach Croft needed a strong character fault that embraced development. He was stubborn, but he didn't grow or navigate from it. He felt underdeveloped. Cora was more developed, and she was only in maybe a quarter of the book.
Ryker was by far my favorite character. He felt real. His anger. His choices.
Carver has some depth but what villain doesn’t? Still, the reader is left with questions about his actions and what makes him tick.
First-person POV would have made this story easier to connect to. Some characters almost die... others do die... And it was just a shoulder shrug. I feel like another round of developmental editing could have really eliminated some of these issues and possibly the biggest issue: characterization.
The plot and the rising action are entertaining, but what’s the point if you don’t care who is experiencing it?
I wish people would stop commenting on this author's age in relation to their rating, it feels degrading. Just say you see potential in him versus 'his writing is good writing for a 16-year-old'.
Will I hear out this series? Yes, I will read book two, I just won’t rush to the store to buy it. I have noticed a trend with indie writers writing series lately: book two turning out stronger and better than book one—and I don’t doubt this to be true for the next book of this series.
April 19, 2025
DNF on page 260. I was getting bored… Impressive work for a teenager, however it’s in desperate need of a proper edit. There are a lot of scenes that don’t add anything to the plot, and a lot of coincidences that conveniently save the day.
August 9, 2023
First and foremost, I was very fortunate to have been able to read this in serial form for free (which is just amazing) and it is actually making me contemplate on getting a physical copy ! The story itself in many ways could have been written better, but there was something I really, like REALLY, enjoyed about how raw and original the writing was. The author at 16 has done no small feat. Definitely more tell-y than show-y, yet the story seriously makes up for it. Though it isn't the best book in the world, for a few moments, I promise you, you'd feel like it is.
June 24, 2023
This book was amazing. The fact that is was written by a sixteen year old is out of this world. The story is amazing, the characters are lovable. You get to dive deep into people flaws and the flaws of humanity. It brilliant highly recommend
October 19, 2024
Close enough welcome back Bellamy Blake and John Murphy
September 17, 2023
So first of, the world building was so cool ( and the way we are keeping things around here? it might come to you know), the Solar flares, the red plague and the colony on mars..everything.
As for the characters, Zach is the Main character, like me have the energy you know the main character energy😂 making decisions which seems stupid, Brave and thry somehow work? Check. Leader of the group?check. Having a reckless personality? Check. Jumping into danger all the time? Check.🤣
Ryker is my favourite character in the book and I really hope that he didn't die in the end like the probabilities pretty low but i hoped he survive.
Carver was probably the most complicated character in the story, he did a bunch of bad things but when you look at those from his point of you they almost seem sensible,(not counting killing Keaton and how he went down near the end)
As for Cora and Mable... I think they need more scenes. Especially Mable. Because we get a few chapters from Cora point of view and I love that girl. But Mable is a chatacter i think i will like if i get to know her better.
And the cliffhanger?? Dude I need answers! I need answers! I need to know if Ryker is completely dead or alive!
Everything aside there was one thing in the book that felt missing to me......romance.
Well I guess in a sci-fi book you don't usely pay that much attention to romance and people who usely read from this genre used to it? But I am a fantasy romance reader and I just love your it. So I hope there is at least some of it in the following books.
(P.S. I think Zack and Ryker will make a great couple if they talk things out first.....or that might be my bl fan brain talking😅😂)
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As for the characters, Zach is the Main character, like me have the energy you know the main character energy😂 making decisions which seems stupid, Brave and thry somehow work? Check. Leader of the group?check. Having a reckless personality? Check. Jumping into danger all the time? Check.🤣
Ryker is my favourite character in the book and I really hope that he didn't die in the end like the probabilities pretty low but i hoped he survive.
Carver was probably the most complicated character in the story, he did a bunch of bad things but when you look at those from his point of you they almost seem sensible,(not counting killing Keaton and how he went down near the end)
As for Cora and Mable... I think they need more scenes. Especially Mable. Because we get a few chapters from Cora point of view and I love that girl. But Mable is a chatacter i think i will like if i get to know her better.
And the cliffhanger?? Dude I need answers! I need answers! I need to know if Ryker is completely dead or alive!
Everything aside there was one thing in the book that felt missing to me......romance.
Well I guess in a sci-fi book you don't usely pay that much attention to romance and people who usely read from this genre used to it? But I am a fantasy romance reader and I just love your it. So I hope there is at least some of it in the following books.
(P.S. I think Zack and Ryker will make a great couple if they talk things out first.....or that might be my bl fan brain talking😅😂)
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This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2023
Small spoilers ahead be warned.
4.7/5
Gonna be honest I didn’t know what to expect going into this book(got recommended by my sister) but just wow. I’m normally hesitant about space stuff because sometimes it can be drawn out and boring, but this was definitely anything but.
It was nonstop movement with few wasted moments and constant twists, action, trauma and drama especially after the first few chapters. RIP Ryker’s mental health. And Zach’s too lol.
The structure of flashbacks sandwiched in between present was a risky choice, but to me it paid off well and I really enjoyed the layering and parallels between past and present. Plus it allowed for good characterization and knowing the “why” behind motives.
Speaking of characters, they felt relatable and human and I feel so bad for all of themmm and all that they had to go throughh. It was cool to see how they reacted when pushed to their limits beyond hope.
Ryker is my personal favorite child. Love him and how sassy he is. The poor guy’s gone through a lot and I hope he finds peace soon. (I DONT MEAN DIE I DONT WANT HIM TO DIE).
There were a few moments where it (such as some uses of “whatever.”) but overall I was super impressed with the quality of writing. I kept thinking dang I can’t believe a 16 year old wrote this. What am I doing with my life?😂 The science with the flares and space and everything was so cool to me. (SPOILERS)
the irogen and bacteria?? GENIUS
Overall the drama, the twists, worldbuilding and characterization all make this a super entertaining read. Highly recommend.
4.7/5
Gonna be honest I didn’t know what to expect going into this book(got recommended by my sister) but just wow. I’m normally hesitant about space stuff because sometimes it can be drawn out and boring, but this was definitely anything but.
It was nonstop movement with few wasted moments and constant twists, action, trauma and drama especially after the first few chapters. RIP Ryker’s mental health. And Zach’s too lol.
The structure of flashbacks sandwiched in between present was a risky choice, but to me it paid off well and I really enjoyed the layering and parallels between past and present. Plus it allowed for good characterization and knowing the “why” behind motives.
Speaking of characters, they felt relatable and human and I feel so bad for all of themmm and all that they had to go throughh. It was cool to see how they reacted when pushed to their limits beyond hope.
Ryker is my personal favorite child. Love him and how sassy he is. The poor guy’s gone through a lot and I hope he finds peace soon. (I DONT MEAN DIE I DONT WANT HIM TO DIE).
There were a few moments where it (such as some uses of “whatever.”) but overall I was super impressed with the quality of writing. I kept thinking dang I can’t believe a 16 year old wrote this. What am I doing with my life?😂 The science with the flares and space and everything was so cool to me. (SPOILERS)
the irogen and bacteria?? GENIUS
Overall the drama, the twists, worldbuilding and characterization all make this a super entertaining read. Highly recommend.
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