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The Leaders of Aluzamoak #1
The Elders' Sequence
The fiery but compassionate Mira has vowed to lead the planet of Aluzamoak and its empire with her spouse, native-born Zaraith. Breaking their vows means death. When Zaraith begins to exploit his authority, Mira questions every role she plays on his world. The mystical elders that elected them keep their knowledge and operations opaque, leading to more questions. Mira must navigate alien cultures and politics to find an answer to an intractable problem: keep her vows to Zaraith or keep the vow she has made to take his place.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2024
1 person is currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
S. A. Ferguson
1 book10 followersS. A. Ferguson has been exploring worlds through writing since childhood. They explore the realms of consciousness as a practitioner of Vajrayana Buddhism, Holotropic Breathwork, and other energy healing practices. They hold an MA in English with a concentration in professional and technical writing. They live near Cleveland, Ohio.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 9, 2025
Intended to leave this review sooner, alas, I am here now!
This book is a work of art. The craftsmanship is incredible. I don’t gravitate to a lot of science fiction, if I’m being honest. It’s difficult for me to visualize the worlds and beings that are so different from me and my own lived experience. But Saz has brought these characters alive for me, and they have painted a portrait of otherworldly civilizations, political structures, and relationships that I can care about. Saz is a writer and an artist. I knew that before reading this. I can confirm that tenfold after reading this.
I cannot even begin to fathom the time and intention it took to craft this book. The language and methods of nonverbal communication, names of planets and locations, descriptions of the physicality and appearance of other species, complex adaptation of time measurement are not only intricately planned but then (and more importantly) presented to the reader in a digestible way. I’ve never read anything like it.
With that being said, there is somehow a timelessness to this book. It explores universal themes of the human (and non-human??!) condition and experience: love, trust, conflict, honesty, ethics, values, desire, power, image.
To me this book represents a bridge between what we know and what we don’t know. That’s pretty profound.
This book is a work of art. The craftsmanship is incredible. I don’t gravitate to a lot of science fiction, if I’m being honest. It’s difficult for me to visualize the worlds and beings that are so different from me and my own lived experience. But Saz has brought these characters alive for me, and they have painted a portrait of otherworldly civilizations, political structures, and relationships that I can care about. Saz is a writer and an artist. I knew that before reading this. I can confirm that tenfold after reading this.
I cannot even begin to fathom the time and intention it took to craft this book. The language and methods of nonverbal communication, names of planets and locations, descriptions of the physicality and appearance of other species, complex adaptation of time measurement are not only intricately planned but then (and more importantly) presented to the reader in a digestible way. I’ve never read anything like it.
With that being said, there is somehow a timelessness to this book. It explores universal themes of the human (and non-human??!) condition and experience: love, trust, conflict, honesty, ethics, values, desire, power, image.
To me this book represents a bridge between what we know and what we don’t know. That’s pretty profound.
August 12, 2024
An amazing first book, and an engrossing start to an epic saga.
Ferguson has crafted a detailed, and engrossing world centered on the compelling characters of Mira and Zaraith.
Read this book if you like:
- The nuance of intergalactic politics. (a la Dune or Star Wars Episode 1)
- Diving into unique alien cultures. Aluzamoak is thoroughly crafted with a web of interconnected ecologies, technologies, and cultural traditions.
- Complicated romance (speaks for itself)
- The thrill of conspiracy! (too many spoilers to give any more details!)
5 out of 5 stars.
As a note, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ferguson has crafted a detailed, and engrossing world centered on the compelling characters of Mira and Zaraith.
Read this book if you like:
- The nuance of intergalactic politics. (a la Dune or Star Wars Episode 1)
- Diving into unique alien cultures. Aluzamoak is thoroughly crafted with a web of interconnected ecologies, technologies, and cultural traditions.
- Complicated romance (speaks for itself)
- The thrill of conspiracy! (too many spoilers to give any more details!)
5 out of 5 stars.
As a note, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2024
Epic story of aliens and intrigue.
One of the main characters is a woman from Earth who has survived being sucked through a wormhole to the planet where the dominant lifeform seems to be bipedal, purple-skinned and taller with sensitive horns. The other main character is her husband and new leader of the world following the death of his tyrant father. His father had broken all traditions by making our human heroine the second in command as well as trained in the mental controls and practices of the race also skilling her in warrior swordplay before his demise.
Each chapter announces the viewpoint from which the tale is being told and we hear from other teachers, scientists and soldiers as well as the Elders. The latter are a panel who are really in control and use the rulers almost as puppets to enact their long-term aims. The overall ethos is of the greater good for the greatest number with servant leaders, although the status and motives of the Elders are unclear most of the time. There is familial, political, social and psychological intrigue aplenty and several twists in the tale. Many trust issues arise and our nain characters have their own internal conflicts to contend with. I was impressed with the worldbuilding and the evolution of the title's significance emerging.
Because we heard of the same events from different viewpoints there was quite a lot of repetition. Where there were differences, this was informative, but it became tedious when they merely confirmed eachg other. Some of the events seemed to stretch credulity and immersion in the story and the origin and motives for the most malign influence were unclear. Maybe a sequel will resolve that.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One of the main characters is a woman from Earth who has survived being sucked through a wormhole to the planet where the dominant lifeform seems to be bipedal, purple-skinned and taller with sensitive horns. The other main character is her husband and new leader of the world following the death of his tyrant father. His father had broken all traditions by making our human heroine the second in command as well as trained in the mental controls and practices of the race also skilling her in warrior swordplay before his demise.
Each chapter announces the viewpoint from which the tale is being told and we hear from other teachers, scientists and soldiers as well as the Elders. The latter are a panel who are really in control and use the rulers almost as puppets to enact their long-term aims. The overall ethos is of the greater good for the greatest number with servant leaders, although the status and motives of the Elders are unclear most of the time. There is familial, political, social and psychological intrigue aplenty and several twists in the tale. Many trust issues arise and our nain characters have their own internal conflicts to contend with. I was impressed with the worldbuilding and the evolution of the title's significance emerging.
Because we heard of the same events from different viewpoints there was quite a lot of repetition. Where there were differences, this was informative, but it became tedious when they merely confirmed eachg other. Some of the events seemed to stretch credulity and immersion in the story and the origin and motives for the most malign influence were unclear. Maybe a sequel will resolve that.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2024
The Elders' Sequence is a stellar entry into the world of cosmic science fiction. Creating a story like this requires formidable writing prowess, ravenous curiosity, and deep lived experience.
Ferguson gracefully sweeps the reader into the story and uses the momentum to carry the reader through Part I. Ferguson then uses suspense to propel the reader through Part II. The chapters are short vignettes; they make the book a manageable read.
This author is a master of tension and release. They thoughtfully build tension in Part I, at the end of which they arrive at the climax with a breathtaking plot twist. They release tension in Part II, at the end of which they arrive at a glorious resolution.
This author is also a master of foreshadowing. It happens subtly and throughout the book. Consequently, it feels less like Ferguson is building the story and more like they are revealing the story.
Ferguson clearly loves their main characters and it didn't take long for this reader to love them too. The characters are already complex at the beginning and are thoughtfully developed throughout the book.
I highly recommend The Elders' Sequence, whether you are new to sci-fi or well-read in the genre. I can't wait to see more from this author!
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ferguson gracefully sweeps the reader into the story and uses the momentum to carry the reader through Part I. Ferguson then uses suspense to propel the reader through Part II. The chapters are short vignettes; they make the book a manageable read.
This author is a master of tension and release. They thoughtfully build tension in Part I, at the end of which they arrive at the climax with a breathtaking plot twist. They release tension in Part II, at the end of which they arrive at a glorious resolution.
This author is also a master of foreshadowing. It happens subtly and throughout the book. Consequently, it feels less like Ferguson is building the story and more like they are revealing the story.
Ferguson clearly loves their main characters and it didn't take long for this reader to love them too. The characters are already complex at the beginning and are thoughtfully developed throughout the book.
I highly recommend The Elders' Sequence, whether you are new to sci-fi or well-read in the genre. I can't wait to see more from this author!
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 4, 2024
This book had many good portions, and others that left me wondering—mostly due to cryptic messages from mysterious Elders and cliffhangers. Thank goodness for the appendix of definitions, as there were foreign words that were not defined in the book.
Overall this was a good first book in a series that left readers on a cliffhanger. This books is split into two parts. For me it could have been written as one book with no parts, but the first part did resolve itself nicely and flow into the second.
For the most part, the characters were realistic with faults and variations in morals and actions. However, there were a few characters that seemed too perfect or that they weren’t “growing” they way characters do.
There was plenty of science talk for those that are interested in the science of science fiction. Some of it went over my head, but it’s not my specialty. Regardless, the actual science components are always interesting to read about.
I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book as I was left with questions that can only be answered by book 2. Some characters are clearly plotting to disrupt the new found peace.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall this was a good first book in a series that left readers on a cliffhanger. This books is split into two parts. For me it could have been written as one book with no parts, but the first part did resolve itself nicely and flow into the second.
For the most part, the characters were realistic with faults and variations in morals and actions. However, there were a few characters that seemed too perfect or that they weren’t “growing” they way characters do.
There was plenty of science talk for those that are interested in the science of science fiction. Some of it went over my head, but it’s not my specialty. Regardless, the actual science components are always interesting to read about.
I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book as I was left with questions that can only be answered by book 2. Some characters are clearly plotting to disrupt the new found peace.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2024
Ferguson has written a fantastic scifi political novel that I would shelve next to Ursula Le Guin in the library. It feels like a superior start on the idea of Farscape setting. I received an advance copy of this book for free.
I enjoyed the rich world building and the main character. The world is explored in a wonderful way, introduced at a perfect pace. Aluzamoak is rich and flawed, its own culture, world, and empire. It's developed enough to give an incredible amount of detail while still leaving the reader plenty of room to speculate.
Mira is a wonderful protagonist. She's a great audience proxy, in learning about her new culture. Readers that have emigrated or come from mixed culture households will probably resonate with Mira. She also brings a high level of understanding about the situation, both political and cultural.
My only constructive criticism is this: I found there to be too much foreshadowing. Maybe I read too many books, but I felt like some of the plot felt hinted to excess.
I need someone else to discuss this book with, so we can talk about the Council and why they don't take certain actions. Pick it up and get talking!
I enjoyed the rich world building and the main character. The world is explored in a wonderful way, introduced at a perfect pace. Aluzamoak is rich and flawed, its own culture, world, and empire. It's developed enough to give an incredible amount of detail while still leaving the reader plenty of room to speculate.
Mira is a wonderful protagonist. She's a great audience proxy, in learning about her new culture. Readers that have emigrated or come from mixed culture households will probably resonate with Mira. She also brings a high level of understanding about the situation, both political and cultural.
My only constructive criticism is this: I found there to be too much foreshadowing. Maybe I read too many books, but I felt like some of the plot felt hinted to excess.
I need someone else to discuss this book with, so we can talk about the Council and why they don't take certain actions. Pick it up and get talking!
June 28, 2024
Fantastic sci-fi world-building, character development, and plot
We're dropped straight into the middle of diplomatic greetings with, and speeches to, the representatives of other worlds and cultures, first through Zaraith's eyes, then through Mira's. They are the political leaders of a highly technologically-advanced society that also relies heavily on the wisdom and psychic abilities of the society's highest governing group -- the Elders.
It's fascinating to piece together an idea of a complex reality based on the viewpoints of Zaraith, Mira, and other characters. My understanding of their personal complexities, their dynamics as each other's spouse, and as the Leader and Second handling their political responsibilities, kept changing as their perceptions, beliefs and courses of action changed.
This book is tour-de-force exploration of connections, responsibility, commitment, ego vs. service, and the interdependence and intersection of multiple layers of reality.
I can't wait for Book 2.
I received a free advance review copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
We're dropped straight into the middle of diplomatic greetings with, and speeches to, the representatives of other worlds and cultures, first through Zaraith's eyes, then through Mira's. They are the political leaders of a highly technologically-advanced society that also relies heavily on the wisdom and psychic abilities of the society's highest governing group -- the Elders.
It's fascinating to piece together an idea of a complex reality based on the viewpoints of Zaraith, Mira, and other characters. My understanding of their personal complexities, their dynamics as each other's spouse, and as the Leader and Second handling their political responsibilities, kept changing as their perceptions, beliefs and courses of action changed.
This book is tour-de-force exploration of connections, responsibility, commitment, ego vs. service, and the interdependence and intersection of multiple layers of reality.
I can't wait for Book 2.
I received a free advance review copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
August 31, 2024
From the very spectacular writing style in this book. From the start, the very first chapter I was intrigued to the story and wanted to find out what will happen next. The main character Mira was very interesting and the fact that we got to see her perspective through the book. And then again we got another pov from Zaraith which was also very interesting to read. A lot seemed to of occurred throughout the book. There were many twists and turns which happened there were some in which suprised me as I hadn't expected it. This made the story very interesting read, as it made me want to read more. Both perspectives developed nicely thoughout the story. And they created a very interesting characters. A part of me just wanted to keep reading when I read the book as I didn't want to put the book down. With the way the ending of this book I want more books in this series. TO be able to find out what happens next.
September 2, 2024
The Elders Sequence is a complex, intense world-building sci-fi adventure and romance novel. I don’t typically read a lot of sci fi, or am not familiar with its conventions, so some of the review will be colored by that.
Overall I enjoyed the book’s plot and breadth of in-depth science and world-building. The author put a lot of time and passion into developing a fully actualized and impressive world.
I found the prose distant and removed from the inferiority of the characters.
I struggled to connect with Mira. The stakes of the story at times felt a bit overlay foreshadowed and too easily resolved.
This book is perfect for a quick read, and for someone looking for fantastic alien worlds and a fun adventure.
Note: I received an advance review copy and am writing a review voluntarily.
Overall I enjoyed the book’s plot and breadth of in-depth science and world-building. The author put a lot of time and passion into developing a fully actualized and impressive world.
I found the prose distant and removed from the inferiority of the characters.
I struggled to connect with Mira. The stakes of the story at times felt a bit overlay foreshadowed and too easily resolved.
This book is perfect for a quick read, and for someone looking for fantastic alien worlds and a fun adventure.
Note: I received an advance review copy and am writing a review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2024
The Elder’s Sequence is a stunning entry into a science fiction series. The storyline pulls you forward until you’re on the edge of your seat. Ferguson artfully crafts the characters to be dynamic and intriguing.
There’s a beautiful balance between the science and fiction aspect of this book. It includes an appendix to help with unfamiliar terms as well. I couldn’t put it down!
I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There’s a beautiful balance between the science and fiction aspect of this book. It includes an appendix to help with unfamiliar terms as well. I couldn’t put it down!
I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2024
The Elder's Sequence begins a series that is essential reading! Right from the start, I found it hard to stop after just a few chapters. Mira's story unfolds quickly and follows an unpredictable path. She is suddenly introduced to a new world and culture, despite her lack of scientific knowledge. Mira struggles with imposter syndrome, a challenge many of us face. It’s uncommon to encounter a book with such surprising twists. I'm excited for the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 1, 2024
Well, what can I say?
This was a thoroughly enjoyable, original, imaginative, interesting, creative, [insert more positive adjectives here] experience.
Seriously, it was great. Both main characters were incredibly lively, deep and real, and more than just them, all characters had that depth, their own agendas that we may or may not know about, well-thought out politics both within the main planet we are on and within the rest of the universe, even though we don't get that much of the rest.
The story was interesting, political and personal, providing both interesting emotional storylines and intentions as well as intrigues, betrayal, cultural differences and issues, with our female lead originating from an entirely different planet - namely earth - and still integrating into the culture, married to its leader.
We have her perspective, confused, desparate, angry, grieving, as her husband seems to begin to exploit his power and be well on the way of destroying their entire planet.
On the other side we have his, fully convinced of his agenda, and willing to do anything to reach his goal, betraying his people, his wife, his mother.
All for that twist that I did not see coming but that was so satisfying, so perfect, so hoped for and still it brought even more issues that are yet to be resolved at the end of this book.
Makes you yearn for the next part of the story, to dive back into that world, those characters.
I have nothing to say against this book, and the sole reason it is not getting five stars from me is that I didn't get that "Wow- I love this so much, I need more right right now!" feeling that I got from other books I've rated five stars, but I do not think that that is at any fault of the author, but purely personal preferences.
I am really looking forward to the next part of this story and thoroughly enjoyed my time with this one.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable, original, imaginative, interesting, creative, [insert more positive adjectives here] experience.
Seriously, it was great. Both main characters were incredibly lively, deep and real, and more than just them, all characters had that depth, their own agendas that we may or may not know about, well-thought out politics both within the main planet we are on and within the rest of the universe, even though we don't get that much of the rest.
The story was interesting, political and personal, providing both interesting emotional storylines and intentions as well as intrigues, betrayal, cultural differences and issues, with our female lead originating from an entirely different planet - namely earth - and still integrating into the culture, married to its leader.
We have her perspective, confused, desparate, angry, grieving, as her husband seems to begin to exploit his power and be well on the way of destroying their entire planet.
On the other side we have his, fully convinced of his agenda, and willing to do anything to reach his goal, betraying his people, his wife, his mother.
All for that twist that I did not see coming but that was so satisfying, so perfect, so hoped for and still it brought even more issues that are yet to be resolved at the end of this book.
Makes you yearn for the next part of the story, to dive back into that world, those characters.
I have nothing to say against this book, and the sole reason it is not getting five stars from me is that I didn't get that "Wow- I love this so much, I need more right right now!" feeling that I got from other books I've rated five stars, but I do not think that that is at any fault of the author, but purely personal preferences.
I am really looking forward to the next part of this story and thoroughly enjoyed my time with this one.
March 27, 2025
The political intrigue in this book is palpable. It is a great sci-fi that reminds of books like A Memory Called Empire. I really enjoyed the characterizations of the characters and richness of the plot. Definitely give this one a read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews