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The Saga of Recluce #26
Last of the First
L. E. Modesitt, Jr., New York Times bestselling fantasy author, continues his sweeping Saga of Recluce series and concludes his four book story arc (From the Forest, Overcaptain, and Sub-Majer's Challenge).
The Mirror Lancer Alyiakal has been ordered to Mirror Lancer Headquarters and promoted to Subcommander, ostensibly to advise the high command on tactics—except t Alyiakal’s successful military campaigns have removed most external threats to the Empire of Light.
The external threats to Cyador are nothing next to the internal threats of a weak emperor controlled by his manipulative empress, a ruthless Merchanter clan embezzling the Empire's finances, an indecisive high commander of the Mirror Lancers, and a power struggle among the Magi’i.
Alyiakal will navigate the dangerous streets and politics of Cyador and meet his destiny.
Saga of Recluce
#1 The Magic of Recluce / #2 The Towers of the Sunset / #3 The Order War / #4 The Magic Engineer / #5 The Death of Chaos / #6 Fall of Angels / #7 The Chaos Balance / #8 The White Order / #9 Colors of Chaos / #10 Magi’i of Cyador / #11 Scion of Cyador / #12 Wellspring of Chaos / #13 Ordermaster / #14 Natural Order Mage / #15 Mage-Guard of Hamor / #16 Arms-Commander / #17 Cyador’s Heirs / #18 Heritage of Cyador / #19 The Mongrel Mage / #20 Outcasts of Order / #21 The Mage-Fire War / #22 Fairhaven Rising/#23 From the Forest/ #24 Overcaptain/ #25 Sub-Majer's Challenge/ #26 Last of the First
Story Recluce Tales
Other Series by L.E. Modesitt, Jr.
The Grand Illusion
The Imager Portfolio
The Corean Chronicles
The Spellsong Cycle
The Ghost Books
The Ecolitan Matter
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
The Mirror Lancer Alyiakal has been ordered to Mirror Lancer Headquarters and promoted to Subcommander, ostensibly to advise the high command on tactics—except t Alyiakal’s successful military campaigns have removed most external threats to the Empire of Light.
The external threats to Cyador are nothing next to the internal threats of a weak emperor controlled by his manipulative empress, a ruthless Merchanter clan embezzling the Empire's finances, an indecisive high commander of the Mirror Lancers, and a power struggle among the Magi’i.
Alyiakal will navigate the dangerous streets and politics of Cyador and meet his destiny.
Saga of Recluce
#1 The Magic of Recluce / #2 The Towers of the Sunset / #3 The Order War / #4 The Magic Engineer / #5 The Death of Chaos / #6 Fall of Angels / #7 The Chaos Balance / #8 The White Order / #9 Colors of Chaos / #10 Magi’i of Cyador / #11 Scion of Cyador / #12 Wellspring of Chaos / #13 Ordermaster / #14 Natural Order Mage / #15 Mage-Guard of Hamor / #16 Arms-Commander / #17 Cyador’s Heirs / #18 Heritage of Cyador / #19 The Mongrel Mage / #20 Outcasts of Order / #21 The Mage-Fire War / #22 Fairhaven Rising/#23 From the Forest/ #24 Overcaptain/ #25 Sub-Majer's Challenge/ #26 Last of the First
Story Recluce Tales
Other Series by L.E. Modesitt, Jr.
The Grand Illusion
The Imager Portfolio
The Corean Chronicles
The Spellsong Cycle
The Ghost Books
The Ecolitan Matter
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
- GenresFantasyScience Fiction
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2026
About the author
L.E. Modesitt Jr.
188 books2,645 followersL. E. (Leland Exton) Modesitt, Jr. is an author of science fiction and fantasy novels. He is best known for the fantasy series The Saga of Recluce. He graduated from Williams College in Massachusetts, lived in Washington, D.C. for 20 years, then moved to New Hampshire in 1989 where he met his wife. They relocated to Cedar City, Utah in 1993.
He has worked as a Navy pilot, lifeguard, delivery boy, unpaid radio disc jockey, real estate agent, market research analyst, director of research for a political campaign, legislative assistant for a Congressman, Director of Legislation and Congressional Relations for the United States Environmental Protection Agency, a consultant on environmental, regulatory, and communications issues, and a college lecturer and writer in residence.
In addition to his novels, Mr. Modesitt has published technical studies and articles, columns, poetry, and a number of science fiction stories. His first short story, "The Great American Economy", was published in 1973 in Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact.
-Wikipedia
He has worked as a Navy pilot, lifeguard, delivery boy, unpaid radio disc jockey, real estate agent, market research analyst, director of research for a political campaign, legislative assistant for a Congressman, Director of Legislation and Congressional Relations for the United States Environmental Protection Agency, a consultant on environmental, regulatory, and communications issues, and a college lecturer and writer in residence.
In addition to his novels, Mr. Modesitt has published technical studies and articles, columns, poetry, and a number of science fiction stories. His first short story, "The Great American Economy", was published in 1973 in Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact.
-Wikipedia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Finished Last of the First by LE Modesitt Jr:
The last of the Alyiakal cycle - first chronologically in the Recluce series though latest published - delivers on the expectations, though not quite in the way I thought from later dated books in which his name is mentioned as an example of what the powers to be should try and avoid.
Now recently married to merchant lady Saelora and still in a bit of shock from the discovery of his previously unknown teenage daughter, Subcommander Alyiakal is in the capital Cyad at the request of his patron, Captain Commander Laartol - the official second in command of the army of Cyador, but in reality the true commander as Majer Commander Mheryt is happy to take his pay and do nothing except promote his young nephew whom Alyiakal trained to shed his innate arrogance at least to some extent.
Cyador is in trouble - a weak emperor who got the throne essentially because his half brother was unstable, a dominating but insecure empress, infighting mages, two merchant houses bent on total domination and so ruthless that no other houses try to do anything about it, while the army (the Mirror Lancers), the navy and the support mages (Mirror Engineers) are starved of resources; neighbouring countries envious of the Empire's wealth and advanced magical stuff are probing its defenses and only Alyiakal's ruthless destruction of Cerlyn 's armies and rulers is preventing for now a free for all onslaught on Cyador's borders.
Reputed as the most talented and ruthless battlefield commander since the fabled Second Emperor a century or so back who instituted the current government structure based on the Triad of mages, merchants and mirror lancers, Alyiakal is ostensibly tasked to write a tactics manual, but in reality he is here to protect Laartol - the powers to be want the compliant intelligence chief Coeryn as next army commander - and try to help with the general situation. Starting to make connections in the "second" tier of the empire's powerful, Alyiakal realizes that nobody is happy, but nobody dares to do anything, as it most likely would be their death or exile.
So he has to act eventually, and while this goes to places he never imagined, we, of course, know where.
And so it goes, with intrigue and politics rather than battles, but the same superb characters, interesting setup, and the might is right if one has good intentions trope of the author's fantasy work.
Excellent ending and the whole tetralogy was actually better than expected - from the Recluce series this and the Cyador heirs duology are the best imho.
The last of the Alyiakal cycle - first chronologically in the Recluce series though latest published - delivers on the expectations, though not quite in the way I thought from later dated books in which his name is mentioned as an example of what the powers to be should try and avoid.
Now recently married to merchant lady Saelora and still in a bit of shock from the discovery of his previously unknown teenage daughter, Subcommander Alyiakal is in the capital Cyad at the request of his patron, Captain Commander Laartol - the official second in command of the army of Cyador, but in reality the true commander as Majer Commander Mheryt is happy to take his pay and do nothing except promote his young nephew whom Alyiakal trained to shed his innate arrogance at least to some extent.
Cyador is in trouble - a weak emperor who got the throne essentially because his half brother was unstable, a dominating but insecure empress, infighting mages, two merchant houses bent on total domination and so ruthless that no other houses try to do anything about it, while the army (the Mirror Lancers), the navy and the support mages (Mirror Engineers) are starved of resources; neighbouring countries envious of the Empire's wealth and advanced magical stuff are probing its defenses and only Alyiakal's ruthless destruction of Cerlyn 's armies and rulers is preventing for now a free for all onslaught on Cyador's borders.
Reputed as the most talented and ruthless battlefield commander since the fabled Second Emperor a century or so back who instituted the current government structure based on the Triad of mages, merchants and mirror lancers, Alyiakal is ostensibly tasked to write a tactics manual, but in reality he is here to protect Laartol - the powers to be want the compliant intelligence chief Coeryn as next army commander - and try to help with the general situation. Starting to make connections in the "second" tier of the empire's powerful, Alyiakal realizes that nobody is happy, but nobody dares to do anything, as it most likely would be their death or exile.
So he has to act eventually, and while this goes to places he never imagined, we, of course, know where.
And so it goes, with intrigue and politics rather than battles, but the same superb characters, interesting setup, and the might is right if one has good intentions trope of the author's fantasy work.
Excellent ending and the whole tetralogy was actually better than expected - from the Recluce series this and the Cyador heirs duology are the best imho.
July 4, 2026
I was glued!
What is it about the Recluse books that I enjoy so much?
“Last of the First” is set in Cyador in the beginning days of Recluse, after the fall from the Rational Stars. Alyiakal’s is a figure mentioned slightly in early Recluse novels.
Weapons and transport that are charged by the Magi are failing. The Great Forest is impinging on the Wall.
Alyiakal, promoted to Subcommander is at Mirror Lance Headquarters, but now it seems he must reluctantly take control for the good of all.
Alyiakal is a Modesitt hero whose antecedents are somewhat lost in the morass of his upbringing. He’s the outsider. He perceives situations with a fresh outlook. He doesn’t like to waste lives and seeks to bring balance into whatever he does.
His appointments so far have been challenging and he’s often has to act in a decisive manner and in roles beyond what his rank calls for.
He trained as a healer and developed strong mental shields. Alyiakal is actually a strong magi who has learnt to balance his gifts. He would quietly recharge his company’s lances and shield his men in battle. He has an ability to ascertain loyalty or treachery and deceit.
The effect of the Great Forest on Alykial’s early life has given him a strong sense of the force of that place.
Alyiakal’s is finally consorted with a Lady Merchanter. (Their relationship has developed over many years, of long absences and even longer letters)
This last in the Alyiakal’s arc brings together their past and opens up to an unexpected future.
Once again I’m overwhelmed by Modesitt’s writing.
A Tor ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
What is it about the Recluse books that I enjoy so much?
“Last of the First” is set in Cyador in the beginning days of Recluse, after the fall from the Rational Stars. Alyiakal’s is a figure mentioned slightly in early Recluse novels.
Weapons and transport that are charged by the Magi are failing. The Great Forest is impinging on the Wall.
Alyiakal, promoted to Subcommander is at Mirror Lance Headquarters, but now it seems he must reluctantly take control for the good of all.
Alyiakal is a Modesitt hero whose antecedents are somewhat lost in the morass of his upbringing. He’s the outsider. He perceives situations with a fresh outlook. He doesn’t like to waste lives and seeks to bring balance into whatever he does.
His appointments so far have been challenging and he’s often has to act in a decisive manner and in roles beyond what his rank calls for.
He trained as a healer and developed strong mental shields. Alyiakal is actually a strong magi who has learnt to balance his gifts. He would quietly recharge his company’s lances and shield his men in battle. He has an ability to ascertain loyalty or treachery and deceit.
The effect of the Great Forest on Alykial’s early life has given him a strong sense of the force of that place.
Alyiakal’s is finally consorted with a Lady Merchanter. (Their relationship has developed over many years, of long absences and even longer letters)
This last in the Alyiakal’s arc brings together their past and opens up to an unexpected future.
Once again I’m overwhelmed by Modesitt’s writing.
A Tor ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
July 28, 2026
This is the final book in a quadrilogy set within the larger Recluce fantasy series, a series that has given me great pleasure over the past decade. "Last of the First" continues the adventures of Alyiakal -- a character I like considerably -- as he navigates dangerous political waters in the capital.
I enjoyed this very much. I'm a Modesitt fan. While I'm aware that his somewhat dry style isn't to everyone's taste (one of my family members is quite scathing on this topic), I find it immersive and satisfying. Perhaps he could be described as an old-fashioned writer, but I feel myself wishing to defend these books against newer fashions and authors. As Tolkien said, "All that is gold does not glitter... The old that is strong does not wither."
I like many newer, shinier authors, but Modesitt's work is thoughtful, the worldbuilding meticulous, and I slip joyfully into his stories.
For me, five out of five cupridium stars.
About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
I enjoyed this very much. I'm a Modesitt fan. While I'm aware that his somewhat dry style isn't to everyone's taste (one of my family members is quite scathing on this topic), I find it immersive and satisfying. Perhaps he could be described as an old-fashioned writer, but I feel myself wishing to defend these books against newer fashions and authors. As Tolkien said, "All that is gold does not glitter... The old that is strong does not wither."
I like many newer, shinier authors, but Modesitt's work is thoughtful, the worldbuilding meticulous, and I slip joyfully into his stories.
For me, five out of five cupridium stars.
About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
July 29, 2026
Last of the First is the 26th installment in L. E. Modesitt, jr.'s Recluce Saga and the fourth volume in Alyiakal's story arc. As you know, I wasn't happy to learn that what was originally meant to be a three-book cycle was turned into a four-book sequence because Tor Books were loath to release Alyiakal's story as three lengthy novels. I felt that such a split had a negative impact on Beltur's three-volume sequence a few years back and it sure looked as though it would be the same with Alyiakal's series.
Still, even though my fear that Overcaptain would ultimately be about half of the book the second installment was meant to be, with Sub-Majer's Challenge being the second half, was confirmed, in the end the latter turned out to be better than I expected. In this economy, unless you're one of the genre powerhouses, I figure that splitting books will become an unfortunate reality.
From bits found in Magi'i of Cyador, we already knew that Alyiakal will somehow make his way up and become Emperor of the Land of Eternal Light. And yet, though his accomplishments and memory should be revered, he has become the "One Never to be Mentioned" among the Magi'i and Mirror Lancers of Cyad. I was looking forward to the last chapter in this simple man's rise to power and glory. And though it's another good read and a fitting conclusion to this latest Recluce story arc, Last of the First wasn't exactly what I expected.
Here's the blurb:
L. E. Modesitt, Jr., New York Times bestselling fantasy author, continues his sweeping Saga of Recluce series and concludes his four book story arc (From the Forest, Overcaptain, and Sub-Majer's Challenge).
The Mirror Lancer Alyiakal has been ordered to Mirror Lancer Headquarters and promoted to Subcommander, ostensibly to advise the high command on tactics—except t Alyiakal’s successful military campaigns have removed most external threats to the Empire of Light.
The external threats to Cyador are nothing next to the internal threats of a weak emperor controlled by his manipulative empress, a ruthless Merchanter clan embezzling the Empire's finances, an indecisive high commander of the Mirror Lancers, and a power struggle among the Magi’i.
Alyiakal will navigate the dangerous streets and politics of Cyador and meet his destiny.
The worldbuilding has always been one of the most fascinating facets of any new Recluce title. Each tale allows readers to discover how people and events shaped history during their lifetime. Alyiakal's story arc is the earliest series in the Recluce timeline. The action takes place more than three centuries before Magi'i of Cyador and Scion of Cyador, and more than seven centuries before Fall of Angels. In our interview in 2024, Modesitt stated that we'll probably never get the full story of the arrival of the First from the Rational Stars and the founding of Cyad. Which is too bad, as I've always been extremely curious about this. For that reason, I relish the few glimpses from the past that Alyiakal's tale has provided thus far. I was hoping to learn more about the Dissidents and what happened to them, about the First and their technology and how they walled the Great Forest. Alas, like its predecessor, Last of the First didn't shine any light on those mysteries. Which makes me wonder if we'll get a novel or a sequence dealing with the schism between the First and the Dissidents in the near future. The author offers a few hints about Angloria, the Anglorian Unity, Winterhold, and of the weapons wielded against and by the Dark Angels of Winter that could twist worlds out of time and space and were best left to the Rational Stars. A reread of the short story "The Vice Marshal's Trial" featuring Vice Marshal Kiedral, who will one day become the second Emperor of the Land of Eternal Light, appears to be a propos. . .
Sub-Majer's Challenge ended with Alyiakal being promoted and requested to travel to the capital to serve directly under Captain-Commander Laartol. His growing fears are confirmed when he quickly realizes that Cyador is in dire straits. Led by a young puppet emperor dominated by a demanding and insecure empress, plagued by the intrigues of competing Magi'i, undermined by two major merchant houses that control commerce and the enumerators, which in turn gives them control over the amount of money that flows into the empire's treasury and leaves the Mirror Lancers and the Mirror Engineers grasping for resources, Cyador is on the brink of collapse. Considered the most efficient and ruthless battlefield commander since the Second Emperor, Alyiakal was officially called back to write a new manual on tactics and strategy to be disseminated among the Mirror Lancers in the hope that they can duplicate his exploits against Cyador's many enemies. The truth is that he's in the capital to protect Captain-Commander Laartol from those who don't want to see him replace Majer-Commander Mheryt. It appears that the Emperor's cadre, as well as the Magi'i and the rich Merchanters, would prefer a more pliable man at the head of the army. Based on that premise, it's easy to understand that political intrigue is at the heart of Last of the First. As such, it's much different in style and tone than the previous installments. Alyiakal must still find ways to overcome the obstacles set in his path, but Cyador is not some distant post were he can do what he must far away from prying eyes.
As expected, like all Modesitt novels, Last of the First suffers from pacing issues from time to time. A stranger in a strange land, Alyiakal must be careful as he navigates the currents that characterize political life in the capital. He must discover who he can and cannot trust among the members of the Triad, all the while preventing the assassination of the Captain-Commander. He'll soon find out that he's not wanted in Cyad and that his own life is also at risk. How he ascends the throne turned out to be a bit anticlimactic. Having said that, various battles are fought on different battlefields and it was obvious that Alyiakal wouldn't become Emperor at the head of an army. Still, it was interesting to see how he bound the Triad to serve his purpose. Something tells me that we have seen the last of him. Yet I wouldn't be surprised if his daughter is the protagonist of a future Recluce title.
The fact that Last of the First offers absolutely no answers regarding the First and the Dissidents was a big disappointment for me. Especially if we're not getting any Recluce novel or sequence that focuses on that particular era. Here's to hoping that L. E. Modesitt, Jr. has a few surprises in store for us in that regard. As the earliest story arc in the Recluce timeline, Alyiakal's tale turned out to be a fine and worthy addition to this great saga.
It's been 35 years since The Magic of Recluce was published. And 26 books down the line, I'm still hoping for more to come!
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
Still, even though my fear that Overcaptain would ultimately be about half of the book the second installment was meant to be, with Sub-Majer's Challenge being the second half, was confirmed, in the end the latter turned out to be better than I expected. In this economy, unless you're one of the genre powerhouses, I figure that splitting books will become an unfortunate reality.
From bits found in Magi'i of Cyador, we already knew that Alyiakal will somehow make his way up and become Emperor of the Land of Eternal Light. And yet, though his accomplishments and memory should be revered, he has become the "One Never to be Mentioned" among the Magi'i and Mirror Lancers of Cyad. I was looking forward to the last chapter in this simple man's rise to power and glory. And though it's another good read and a fitting conclusion to this latest Recluce story arc, Last of the First wasn't exactly what I expected.
Here's the blurb:
L. E. Modesitt, Jr., New York Times bestselling fantasy author, continues his sweeping Saga of Recluce series and concludes his four book story arc (From the Forest, Overcaptain, and Sub-Majer's Challenge).
The Mirror Lancer Alyiakal has been ordered to Mirror Lancer Headquarters and promoted to Subcommander, ostensibly to advise the high command on tactics—except t Alyiakal’s successful military campaigns have removed most external threats to the Empire of Light.
The external threats to Cyador are nothing next to the internal threats of a weak emperor controlled by his manipulative empress, a ruthless Merchanter clan embezzling the Empire's finances, an indecisive high commander of the Mirror Lancers, and a power struggle among the Magi’i.
Alyiakal will navigate the dangerous streets and politics of Cyador and meet his destiny.
The worldbuilding has always been one of the most fascinating facets of any new Recluce title. Each tale allows readers to discover how people and events shaped history during their lifetime. Alyiakal's story arc is the earliest series in the Recluce timeline. The action takes place more than three centuries before Magi'i of Cyador and Scion of Cyador, and more than seven centuries before Fall of Angels. In our interview in 2024, Modesitt stated that we'll probably never get the full story of the arrival of the First from the Rational Stars and the founding of Cyad. Which is too bad, as I've always been extremely curious about this. For that reason, I relish the few glimpses from the past that Alyiakal's tale has provided thus far. I was hoping to learn more about the Dissidents and what happened to them, about the First and their technology and how they walled the Great Forest. Alas, like its predecessor, Last of the First didn't shine any light on those mysteries. Which makes me wonder if we'll get a novel or a sequence dealing with the schism between the First and the Dissidents in the near future. The author offers a few hints about Angloria, the Anglorian Unity, Winterhold, and of the weapons wielded against and by the Dark Angels of Winter that could twist worlds out of time and space and were best left to the Rational Stars. A reread of the short story "The Vice Marshal's Trial" featuring Vice Marshal Kiedral, who will one day become the second Emperor of the Land of Eternal Light, appears to be a propos. . .
Sub-Majer's Challenge ended with Alyiakal being promoted and requested to travel to the capital to serve directly under Captain-Commander Laartol. His growing fears are confirmed when he quickly realizes that Cyador is in dire straits. Led by a young puppet emperor dominated by a demanding and insecure empress, plagued by the intrigues of competing Magi'i, undermined by two major merchant houses that control commerce and the enumerators, which in turn gives them control over the amount of money that flows into the empire's treasury and leaves the Mirror Lancers and the Mirror Engineers grasping for resources, Cyador is on the brink of collapse. Considered the most efficient and ruthless battlefield commander since the Second Emperor, Alyiakal was officially called back to write a new manual on tactics and strategy to be disseminated among the Mirror Lancers in the hope that they can duplicate his exploits against Cyador's many enemies. The truth is that he's in the capital to protect Captain-Commander Laartol from those who don't want to see him replace Majer-Commander Mheryt. It appears that the Emperor's cadre, as well as the Magi'i and the rich Merchanters, would prefer a more pliable man at the head of the army. Based on that premise, it's easy to understand that political intrigue is at the heart of Last of the First. As such, it's much different in style and tone than the previous installments. Alyiakal must still find ways to overcome the obstacles set in his path, but Cyador is not some distant post were he can do what he must far away from prying eyes.
As expected, like all Modesitt novels, Last of the First suffers from pacing issues from time to time. A stranger in a strange land, Alyiakal must be careful as he navigates the currents that characterize political life in the capital. He must discover who he can and cannot trust among the members of the Triad, all the while preventing the assassination of the Captain-Commander. He'll soon find out that he's not wanted in Cyad and that his own life is also at risk. How he ascends the throne turned out to be a bit anticlimactic. Having said that, various battles are fought on different battlefields and it was obvious that Alyiakal wouldn't become Emperor at the head of an army. Still, it was interesting to see how he bound the Triad to serve his purpose. Something tells me that we have seen the last of him. Yet I wouldn't be surprised if his daughter is the protagonist of a future Recluce title.
The fact that Last of the First offers absolutely no answers regarding the First and the Dissidents was a big disappointment for me. Especially if we're not getting any Recluce novel or sequence that focuses on that particular era. Here's to hoping that L. E. Modesitt, Jr. has a few surprises in store for us in that regard. As the earliest story arc in the Recluce timeline, Alyiakal's tale turned out to be a fine and worthy addition to this great saga.
It's been 35 years since The Magic of Recluce was published. And 26 books down the line, I'm still hoping for more to come!
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
August 3, 2026
Last of the First by L. E. Modesitt Jr. is the twenty-sixth installment in the sweeping Saga of Recluce epic fantasy series and serves as the grand conclusion to a compelling four-book narrative arc. Following the events of From the Forest, Overcaptain, and Sub-Majer's Challenge, this novel brings the chronicle of the Mirror Lancer Alyiakal to a dramatic and deeply political close. While the earlier books in this specific arc focused heavily on Alyiakal’s military campaigns and his efforts to secure the outer borders of the Empire of Light, this concluding chapter shifts the battlefield from the rugged frontiers to the treacherous, gilded halls of the capital city. Modesitt masterfully pivots the narrative from physical combat against external raiders to a high-stakes game of survival against internal corruption, offering a nuanced exploration of power, duty, and institutional decay.
The story is set in Cyador, an ancient and formidable empire founded by the descendants of technologically advanced beings who wielded chaos to power incredible machinery. By Alyiakal’s era, which takes place chronologically early in the overarching Recluce timeline, the cracks in this once-perfect society are beginning to show. The chaos-fueled technology, from advanced transport to the formidable firelances, is slowly failing as the magical collection towers lose their efficiency. Furthermore, the mysterious Great Forest is physically impinging on the empire's protective Wall, a constant reminder of the creeping environmental threats. It is against this backdrop of gradual decline that Alyiakal must operate, defending a society that is slowly losing the very foundations of its historical supremacy.
Having successfully neutralized the most pressing external threats to Cyador through his brilliant and often unorthodox military campaigns, Alyiakal is recalled to the capital city of Cyad. He is promoted to the rank of Subcommander and assigned to Mirror Lancer Headquarters. Officially, his new role is Tactics and Regional Information Officer, a position ostensibly created so he can advise the high command on strategic matters. He is also given the heavy responsibility of protecting Laartol, the Captain-Commander and second-in-command of the Mirror Lancers, whose life is at constant risk in the volatile political climate. However, Alyiakal quickly discovers that his battlefield promotions and tactical genius offer little protection against the lethal politics of the capital.
Upon settling into his new post, Alyiakal finds an empire rotting from the inside out. The apex of Cyador’s leadership is dangerously compromised. The current emperor is a notoriously weak and ineffective ruler who only ascended to the throne because his half-brother was deemed too mentally unstable to rule. This vacuum of strong leadership has been eagerly filled by the empress, a woman characterized by her deep insecurities and manipulative dominance, effectively pulling the strings of the empire to serve her own ends. This compromised leadership allows widespread corruption to flourish unchecked throughout the capital's sprawling bureaucracy.
Beneath the royal family, the functional pillars of the empire are equally compromised. A completely ruthless Merchanter clan has essentially taken the empire’s economy hostage, blatantly embezzling state finances to enrich themselves. They operate with such lethal efficiency and terrifying impunity that no other merchant houses dare to stand against them, fearing immediate financial ruin or outright assassination. Meanwhile, the military and magical institutions that should protect the state are paralyzed. The high commander of the Mirror Lancers is hobbled by chronic indecision, leaving the army rudderless, while the powerful Magi'i are entirely consumed by their own bitter internal power struggles, ignoring the broader existential crises facing Cyador.
As Alyiakal attempts to navigate this labyrinth of deceit, he begins to forge connections with the "second tier" of the empire’s elite—competent administrators, lesser nobles, and junior officers. Through them, he realizes a terrifying truth: almost everyone is acutely aware of the empire's disastrous trajectory and deeply unhappy with the current state of affairs, yet they are entirely paralyzed by fear. To speak out or take action against the empress, the corrupt Merchanters, or the warring Magi'i is to invite almost certain death or permanent exile.
Realizing that the empire he has bled for is on the verge of collapsing under the weight of its own corruption, Alyiakal understands that he can no longer remain a simple soldier following orders. Reluctantly, he recognizes that he must take control for the greater good of Cyador. Aided by his close ally and partner Saelora, Alyiakal transitions from military tactician to a political mastermind. He uses his position within the Mirror Lancers to systematically expose the rot, leveraging regional intelligence and tactical precision to outmaneuver the entrenched powers. He is forced to dodge assassination attempts and navigate magical coercion, answering financial blackmail with cold, calculated military efficiency.
In the novel’s gripping climax, Alyiakal’s decisive actions effectively dismantle the most dangerous factions threatening the capital, neutralizing the paralyzing elements within the military and forcing a massive restructuring of Cyador’s power dynamics. While his interventions successfully save the Empire of Light from immediate internal ruin, they also inadvertently establish the intense structural and political tensions that will define Cyador’s history for centuries to come, directly preceding the timeline of later books like Magi'i of Cyador. Ultimately, Last of the First is a masterclass in political fantasy, delivering a deeply satisfying conclusion to Alyiakal's arc while exploring the heavy, often morally gray burdens of leadership and the profound sacrifices required to maintain order in a decaying world.
The story is set in Cyador, an ancient and formidable empire founded by the descendants of technologically advanced beings who wielded chaos to power incredible machinery. By Alyiakal’s era, which takes place chronologically early in the overarching Recluce timeline, the cracks in this once-perfect society are beginning to show. The chaos-fueled technology, from advanced transport to the formidable firelances, is slowly failing as the magical collection towers lose their efficiency. Furthermore, the mysterious Great Forest is physically impinging on the empire's protective Wall, a constant reminder of the creeping environmental threats. It is against this backdrop of gradual decline that Alyiakal must operate, defending a society that is slowly losing the very foundations of its historical supremacy.
Having successfully neutralized the most pressing external threats to Cyador through his brilliant and often unorthodox military campaigns, Alyiakal is recalled to the capital city of Cyad. He is promoted to the rank of Subcommander and assigned to Mirror Lancer Headquarters. Officially, his new role is Tactics and Regional Information Officer, a position ostensibly created so he can advise the high command on strategic matters. He is also given the heavy responsibility of protecting Laartol, the Captain-Commander and second-in-command of the Mirror Lancers, whose life is at constant risk in the volatile political climate. However, Alyiakal quickly discovers that his battlefield promotions and tactical genius offer little protection against the lethal politics of the capital.
Upon settling into his new post, Alyiakal finds an empire rotting from the inside out. The apex of Cyador’s leadership is dangerously compromised. The current emperor is a notoriously weak and ineffective ruler who only ascended to the throne because his half-brother was deemed too mentally unstable to rule. This vacuum of strong leadership has been eagerly filled by the empress, a woman characterized by her deep insecurities and manipulative dominance, effectively pulling the strings of the empire to serve her own ends. This compromised leadership allows widespread corruption to flourish unchecked throughout the capital's sprawling bureaucracy.
Beneath the royal family, the functional pillars of the empire are equally compromised. A completely ruthless Merchanter clan has essentially taken the empire’s economy hostage, blatantly embezzling state finances to enrich themselves. They operate with such lethal efficiency and terrifying impunity that no other merchant houses dare to stand against them, fearing immediate financial ruin or outright assassination. Meanwhile, the military and magical institutions that should protect the state are paralyzed. The high commander of the Mirror Lancers is hobbled by chronic indecision, leaving the army rudderless, while the powerful Magi'i are entirely consumed by their own bitter internal power struggles, ignoring the broader existential crises facing Cyador.
As Alyiakal attempts to navigate this labyrinth of deceit, he begins to forge connections with the "second tier" of the empire’s elite—competent administrators, lesser nobles, and junior officers. Through them, he realizes a terrifying truth: almost everyone is acutely aware of the empire's disastrous trajectory and deeply unhappy with the current state of affairs, yet they are entirely paralyzed by fear. To speak out or take action against the empress, the corrupt Merchanters, or the warring Magi'i is to invite almost certain death or permanent exile.
Realizing that the empire he has bled for is on the verge of collapsing under the weight of its own corruption, Alyiakal understands that he can no longer remain a simple soldier following orders. Reluctantly, he recognizes that he must take control for the greater good of Cyador. Aided by his close ally and partner Saelora, Alyiakal transitions from military tactician to a political mastermind. He uses his position within the Mirror Lancers to systematically expose the rot, leveraging regional intelligence and tactical precision to outmaneuver the entrenched powers. He is forced to dodge assassination attempts and navigate magical coercion, answering financial blackmail with cold, calculated military efficiency.
In the novel’s gripping climax, Alyiakal’s decisive actions effectively dismantle the most dangerous factions threatening the capital, neutralizing the paralyzing elements within the military and forcing a massive restructuring of Cyador’s power dynamics. While his interventions successfully save the Empire of Light from immediate internal ruin, they also inadvertently establish the intense structural and political tensions that will define Cyador’s history for centuries to come, directly preceding the timeline of later books like Magi'i of Cyador. Ultimately, Last of the First is a masterclass in political fantasy, delivering a deeply satisfying conclusion to Alyiakal's arc while exploring the heavy, often morally gray burdens of leadership and the profound sacrifices required to maintain order in a decaying world.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This is Book 26 of the Saga of Recluce, and it concludes the four-story arc begun in From the Forest, and continued in Overcaptain, and Sub-Majer’s Challenge. (Though another continuation is certainly possible?)
After his success fighting on the frontier, Alyiakal is promoted to Subcommander and given a staff appointment in Cyad, the capital city of Cyador, as Tactics and Regional Information Officer. He is also responsible for protecting Laartol, the Captain-Commander (second in command) of the Mirror Lancers. In this posting the danger comes not from raiders, but from political infighting waged by various factions which are only too ready to use financial pressure and assassination against rivals to further their ruthless ambitions.
The rules are different from those on the frontier, but Alyiakal adopts the same basic tactics to meet the challenge: ‘more advance reconnaissance in person, attacking unexpectedly from terrain that doesn’t appear advantageous but is, using less orthodox formations.’ And when he strikes back at aggressors, he strikes hard. Some condemn this as a ruthless overreaction, but his justification is pragmatic: ‘I see no point in having to fight someone again. But I’ve never killed men who’ve surrendered in battle.’ Indeed, he even uses his skill as a battlefield healer to treat casualties among the enemy as well as his own forces.
Healing, moreover, is but one of his many talents, and with practice and experience they continue to develop. Since he conceals them as much as possible, he is a much more formidable antagonist than his foes recognize until it is too late, particularly those blinded by their own arrogance.
This represents the final stage of the traditional hero tale in which the hero claims his birthright as ‘the Last of the First’. After a slow build-up as he fends of various assassination attempts while he gathers information on the situation in Cyador, Alyiakal defeats his enemies with relative ease, but that is because he strikes before his foes are ready and kills opponents who refuse to surrender. In other words, he follows the pattern which has proved so successful throughout his career.
Since Alyiakal meets so many new characters in Cyad, it can be difficult to remember who is who, especially since the author uses unfamiliar spelling for their names. Otherwise, a satisfying read.
Highly recommended.
(Four and a half stars)
After his success fighting on the frontier, Alyiakal is promoted to Subcommander and given a staff appointment in Cyad, the capital city of Cyador, as Tactics and Regional Information Officer. He is also responsible for protecting Laartol, the Captain-Commander (second in command) of the Mirror Lancers. In this posting the danger comes not from raiders, but from political infighting waged by various factions which are only too ready to use financial pressure and assassination against rivals to further their ruthless ambitions.
The rules are different from those on the frontier, but Alyiakal adopts the same basic tactics to meet the challenge: ‘more advance reconnaissance in person, attacking unexpectedly from terrain that doesn’t appear advantageous but is, using less orthodox formations.’ And when he strikes back at aggressors, he strikes hard. Some condemn this as a ruthless overreaction, but his justification is pragmatic: ‘I see no point in having to fight someone again. But I’ve never killed men who’ve surrendered in battle.’ Indeed, he even uses his skill as a battlefield healer to treat casualties among the enemy as well as his own forces.
Healing, moreover, is but one of his many talents, and with practice and experience they continue to develop. Since he conceals them as much as possible, he is a much more formidable antagonist than his foes recognize until it is too late, particularly those blinded by their own arrogance.
This represents the final stage of the traditional hero tale in which the hero claims his birthright as ‘the Last of the First’. After a slow build-up as he fends of various assassination attempts while he gathers information on the situation in Cyador, Alyiakal defeats his enemies with relative ease, but that is because he strikes before his foes are ready and kills opponents who refuse to surrender. In other words, he follows the pattern which has proved so successful throughout his career.
Since Alyiakal meets so many new characters in Cyad, it can be difficult to remember who is who, especially since the author uses unfamiliar spelling for their names. Otherwise, a satisfying read.
Highly recommended.
(Four and a half stars)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I generally look forward to these Saga of Recluse books for one thing in particular: Slow and Steady Rational Thought and Action. The characters almost always wind up being truly excellent individuals excelling where everyone else gets muddle-headed or mired in their old momentum.
It's REFRESHING to see rational people get ahead so easily. It warms my heart. And this one is no different from ANY of the others. Indeed, it feels almost exactly like all the others. How many characters started out from lowly beginnings only to learn to harness order magic or chaos magic, join the military, learn they have a knack, only to trounce over everyone and rise in the ranks only to trounce all the old guard magicians at their own game and come out on top?
Um, really, it's a massive trend. Massive. Anyway. I enjoyed this a LOT right until the point nearing the end where we just up and upended EVERYTHING. Or rather, the author did. As if it was just too much bother to do the slow build and slow grind as usual. And just... decapitate the progress.
I GUESS that's an end? Most of the previous books were set pieces so this kind of blowout is kinda expected and then it all wraps up for another look at another time period with another set of suspiciously similar MC's. But this was kinda special because we've stuck with THIS character for much longer than expected. And, indeed, after reaching the capitol and JUST NOW getting his bearings on the intrigues, I fully expected it to go on at least another book or two.
And you know what? I would have had a good time.
It's a COMFORTING read. They always had been.
So, I guess I'm just scratching my head. I hope the author is okay.
It's REFRESHING to see rational people get ahead so easily. It warms my heart. And this one is no different from ANY of the others. Indeed, it feels almost exactly like all the others. How many characters started out from lowly beginnings only to learn to harness order magic or chaos magic, join the military, learn they have a knack, only to trounce over everyone and rise in the ranks only to trounce all the old guard magicians at their own game and come out on top?
Um, really, it's a massive trend. Massive. Anyway. I enjoyed this a LOT right until the point nearing the end where we just up and upended EVERYTHING. Or rather, the author did. As if it was just too much bother to do the slow build and slow grind as usual. And just... decapitate the progress.
I GUESS that's an end? Most of the previous books were set pieces so this kind of blowout is kinda expected and then it all wraps up for another look at another time period with another set of suspiciously similar MC's. But this was kinda special because we've stuck with THIS character for much longer than expected. And, indeed, after reaching the capitol and JUST NOW getting his bearings on the intrigues, I fully expected it to go on at least another book or two.
And you know what? I would have had a good time.
It's a COMFORTING read. They always had been.
So, I guess I'm just scratching my head. I hope the author is okay.
July 15, 2026
What a fine conclusion to this four-book story arc. Author L.E. Modisett, Jr. turned in all four books containing Alyiakal's story at the same time.
I really enjoyed Alyiakal. He's a powerful mage but knows how dangerous it would be if it were known how truly powerful he is. Instead, he does his best to just do his job.
He spent ten years as the most successful battle commander in the Mirror Lancers, wiping out huge numbers of the enemy and losing comparatively few from his side. He is a field healer (actually he is a full mage but all he can afford to admit to is field healing powers) and has been known to heal the fallen of the other side after healing his own soldiers.
In this last book, he is summoned to Headquarters, ostensibly to re-write the current Tactics & Strategy manual since a lot of his success on the battlefield consisted of being where the enemy did not expect him and using battle formations of his own devising.
As the Amazon blurb says, he meets "his destiny" in this final book. As in the first three books, he is just doing the best he can with the hand he has been dealt.
Highly recommended for long running series fans, fans of military fantasy, Saga of Recluce fans (these were books 23 through 26), and fans of books that proceed at a steady pace (for example, Alyiakal's new consort [wife] is still running her own business at home and has not yet moved with him to the capital. So for most of the book he is still corresponding with her via written letters. This makes sense since they met via writing letters [long story]).
I really enjoyed Alyiakal. He's a powerful mage but knows how dangerous it would be if it were known how truly powerful he is. Instead, he does his best to just do his job.
He spent ten years as the most successful battle commander in the Mirror Lancers, wiping out huge numbers of the enemy and losing comparatively few from his side. He is a field healer (actually he is a full mage but all he can afford to admit to is field healing powers) and has been known to heal the fallen of the other side after healing his own soldiers.
In this last book, he is summoned to Headquarters, ostensibly to re-write the current Tactics & Strategy manual since a lot of his success on the battlefield consisted of being where the enemy did not expect him and using battle formations of his own devising.
As the Amazon blurb says, he meets "his destiny" in this final book. As in the first three books, he is just doing the best he can with the hand he has been dealt.
Highly recommended for long running series fans, fans of military fantasy, Saga of Recluce fans (these were books 23 through 26), and fans of books that proceed at a steady pace (for example, Alyiakal's new consort [wife] is still running her own business at home and has not yet moved with him to the capital. So for most of the book he is still corresponding with her via written letters. This makes sense since they met via writing letters [long story]).
July 6, 2026
Paranormal politics and adventure. Series conclusion. Likely callbacks that I missed to prior books, because I don't remember them. I also had trouble remembering all the odd character names. I would have loved it if this book had been longer, although it is already pretty lengthy, but there was no more ground to cover. It is unlikely that this book will have a sequel, for the same reason.
I had some trouble understanding a few passages of dialog, either because of typos, poor wording, or else my lack of ability to decipher it.
The main character's daughter is mentioned a few times, but she does not make any appearances in person. His consort (wife) appears late in the book. I was almost as happy as he was at her arrival. I enjoy her character, and her interactions with her consort (husband).
As with all of this author's books, I felt that there was too much space taken up with descriptions of food, drink, clothing, furniture, rooms, and buildings.
Action is limited for most of the book, but then the main character forces some dramatic confrontations, which result in an unexpected conclusion to me.
The themes are good versus evil, diligence, and the slighting of women.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I had some trouble understanding a few passages of dialog, either because of typos, poor wording, or else my lack of ability to decipher it.
The main character's daughter is mentioned a few times, but she does not make any appearances in person. His consort (wife) appears late in the book. I was almost as happy as he was at her arrival. I enjoy her character, and her interactions with her consort (husband).
As with all of this author's books, I felt that there was too much space taken up with descriptions of food, drink, clothing, furniture, rooms, and buildings.
Action is limited for most of the book, but then the main character forces some dramatic confrontations, which result in an unexpected conclusion to me.
The themes are good versus evil, diligence, and the slighting of women.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
July 2, 2026
Superb Culmination to Alyiakal's Story
L. E. Modesitt, Jr. continues to inspire awe with his understanding of the diverse elements of and his skill in sharing the wonder of his world building. I must say I've never been much interested in politics, and yet, Modesitt writes the characters, with all their flaws, personal interests, and petty weaknesses, in a way that drew me into their conflicts and maneuverings without tiring or boring me.
Alyiakal continues his careful reconnaissance of the important players on the battlefields of power in Cyad; deepening his skill and ability with order and chaos; and finding, supporting, and connecting the trustworthy, ethical, and honorable from every walk of life in order to build a stronger Cyador. This book was an extremely satisfying conclusion to the very clear corruption and degradation of Cyador Modessit revealed so well in this and the first two books about Aliyakal.
I had wanted a lore drop on Aliyakal since I first noticed him being mentioned in Scion of Cyador, and like complex, multilayered bite of rich fudge and chocolate, this book fulfills. Well done, good sir. Well done.
L. E. Modesitt, Jr. continues to inspire awe with his understanding of the diverse elements of and his skill in sharing the wonder of his world building. I must say I've never been much interested in politics, and yet, Modesitt writes the characters, with all their flaws, personal interests, and petty weaknesses, in a way that drew me into their conflicts and maneuverings without tiring or boring me.
Alyiakal continues his careful reconnaissance of the important players on the battlefields of power in Cyad; deepening his skill and ability with order and chaos; and finding, supporting, and connecting the trustworthy, ethical, and honorable from every walk of life in order to build a stronger Cyador. This book was an extremely satisfying conclusion to the very clear corruption and degradation of Cyador Modessit revealed so well in this and the first two books about Aliyakal.
I had wanted a lore drop on Aliyakal since I first noticed him being mentioned in Scion of Cyador, and like complex, multilayered bite of rich fudge and chocolate, this book fulfills. Well done, good sir. Well done.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the final volume of the saga of Alyiakal . Now a subcommander, he has been posted to Mirror Lancer Headquarters in Cyador to serve as an aid to the Laartol, the Captain-Commander. He is supposed to be writing a tactics and strategy manual, but he is also tasked to help Laartol improve the position of the Mirror Lancers in the ongoing struggle between, the Empress, the Merchanting clans, and the Magi. With an outsiders view and insight from his consort, he starts to take action. but knocking over one domino led to multiple dominoes toppling and he ended up on top of the heap. Earlier volumes in the series had referred to him as Emperor, so that was no surprise. The fun was in seeing how Modesitt maneuvered events to get him their. A fitting end to this chapter in the Recluce saga.
Thanks Netgalley and Tor for the chance to read this volume!
Thanks Netgalley and Tor for the chance to read this volume!
July 21, 2026
A fitting end to Aliakal’s story
I am a huge fan of the Saga of Recluce books and as much as I love the books with heroes that are order based; I have really enjoyed the books about. Cyador and even the ones right after its fall.
I don’t know what future Recluce stories Modesitt may write but I hope there are many more stories in the future.
I really enjoyed reading about the man who became emperor, that in the future was never mentioned and realizing why future generations (at least of those in power in the Triad) didn’t like him and preferred to have his memory erased. I liked how the Great Forest became an active player in Aliakal’s destiny, even influencing his consort.
I definitely strongly recommend reading this 4 book story arc and the other Recluce books. If you haven’t already.
I am a huge fan of the Saga of Recluce books and as much as I love the books with heroes that are order based; I have really enjoyed the books about. Cyador and even the ones right after its fall.
I don’t know what future Recluce stories Modesitt may write but I hope there are many more stories in the future.
I really enjoyed reading about the man who became emperor, that in the future was never mentioned and realizing why future generations (at least of those in power in the Triad) didn’t like him and preferred to have his memory erased. I liked how the Great Forest became an active player in Aliakal’s destiny, even influencing his consort.
I definitely strongly recommend reading this 4 book story arc and the other Recluce books. If you haven’t already.
July 4, 2026
I stayed up all night to finish
The Magi'i of Cyador and Heir of Cyador are among my most loved books of Recluce.
So, from the moment I knew the hero of the latest books in the series is Alyiakal I knew the end result - it was mentioned several times in both books.
But the way the story is told is amazing.
I was surprised at many points a long the way.
And if anyone reading these books had not read the above mentioned two, I highly recommend you finsh Alyiakal's story first and then read them.
And if you finished this story line - I hope you had as much fun with it as I did.
I'll have fun again when I'll listen to the audio book.
The Magi'i of Cyador and Heir of Cyador are among my most loved books of Recluce.
So, from the moment I knew the hero of the latest books in the series is Alyiakal I knew the end result - it was mentioned several times in both books.
But the way the story is told is amazing.
I was surprised at many points a long the way.
And if anyone reading these books had not read the above mentioned two, I highly recommend you finsh Alyiakal's story first and then read them.
And if you finished this story line - I hope you had as much fun with it as I did.
I'll have fun again when I'll listen to the audio book.
July 22, 2026
As satisfying as a hot cup of tea
As I read this I hoped that the author was teasing Alyiakal becoming emperor eventually. Imagine my delight when it happened in this very book. The author also teased a baby in his future. I trust that additional books are in the offing to show us the lives of his children. As ever, characters I’ve come to love become more richly imagined. The plot pays homage to a good historical education. I hope to understand the world of the Rational Stars someday.
As I read this I hoped that the author was teasing Alyiakal becoming emperor eventually. Imagine my delight when it happened in this very book. The author also teased a baby in his future. I trust that additional books are in the offing to show us the lives of his children. As ever, characters I’ve come to love become more richly imagined. The plot pays homage to a good historical education. I hope to understand the world of the Rational Stars someday.
July 1, 2026
Alyiakal is now a Subcommander assigned to writing about tactics from the previous tales in this tale of Cyador in the early years of human settlement on Recluce and its first small empire. L. E. Modesitt Jr., one of my favorite authors, has been trying to avoid action and Last of the First (hard from Tor) is no exception. The action scenes, when they come, are well worth the wait, and the ending is solid for this fun return to a world where Chaos and Order manipulation provides the magic.
August 2, 2026
Listened, 7/26. Kinda sorta spoiler-ish review below, read at your own risk.
The first 80% was the series’ usual 4 stars - slowly, but fully, continuing to develop the characters, plot, and world. It was clear from the very beginning of the sub-series where it would end, and, given where things stood at that 80%, it was obvious that another book would be required to get there. Then Modesitt (or his publisher) evidently quoted Popeye, “That's all I can stands. I can't stands no more.” And he threw one of those, thankfully rare, giant author cheats when they don’t want to bother with any more development of a story, and wrote a few pages completely ignoring the plot buildup and the characters’ history/personalities so he could quickly get to the sub-series’ destined ending.
Authors get to do what they want with their work of course, but it felt like he was cheating his readers here, jerking them out of the world he’d carefully created simply because he (or his publisher) was no longer interested. I've never seen anything like this in any other work by the author. I listened to the last 20% with a very, very sour taste in my mouth, and wondered why I’d devoted so much time to a sub-series that the author seemingly really didn’t care much about himself in the end. Really, really disappointed. 4 stars for 98% of the book, but knocking off 2 stars due to those few pages and their effect on how I eventually viewed the book as a whole. Maybe should have been 3 off given how strongly I felt about it.
(x2)
The first 80% was the series’ usual 4 stars - slowly, but fully, continuing to develop the characters, plot, and world. It was clear from the very beginning of the sub-series where it would end, and, given where things stood at that 80%, it was obvious that another book would be required to get there. Then Modesitt (or his publisher) evidently quoted Popeye, “That's all I can stands. I can't stands no more.” And he threw one of those, thankfully rare, giant author cheats when they don’t want to bother with any more development of a story, and wrote a few pages completely ignoring the plot buildup and the characters’ history/personalities so he could quickly get to the sub-series’ destined ending.
Authors get to do what they want with their work of course, but it felt like he was cheating his readers here, jerking them out of the world he’d carefully created simply because he (or his publisher) was no longer interested. I've never seen anything like this in any other work by the author. I listened to the last 20% with a very, very sour taste in my mouth, and wondered why I’d devoted so much time to a sub-series that the author seemingly really didn’t care much about himself in the end. Really, really disappointed. 4 stars for 98% of the book, but knocking off 2 stars due to those few pages and their effect on how I eventually viewed the book as a whole. Maybe should have been 3 off given how strongly I felt about it.
(x2)
July 24, 2026
For a huge book too short
I loved the book, enough twists and turn to keep me guessing. In the last 1/3 things develop rather quickly, almost as if the author ran out of space or the editor yelled cut! I did not like that several characters from the first 3 books never make an appearance in which case we are left hanging. This 4 book storyline should have been 5 books so that other characters could reappear and develop. I could say more but don't want to drop any spoilers.
I loved the book, enough twists and turn to keep me guessing. In the last 1/3 things develop rather quickly, almost as if the author ran out of space or the editor yelled cut! I did not like that several characters from the first 3 books never make an appearance in which case we are left hanging. This 4 book storyline should have been 5 books so that other characters could reappear and develop. I could say more but don't want to drop any spoilers.
August 6, 2026
I love the recluse series but feel that he rushed the ending. I suspect he hit writers block and jumped a lot.
I was a bit upset until I realized he is 82 and has been writing this series with novel twists for so long.
His intricate political structures and contrasting world views have been inspiring. I can forgive someone who has always been so consistent for running out of steam on one book.
I was a bit upset until I realized he is 82 and has been writing this series with novel twists for so long.
His intricate political structures and contrasting world views have been inspiring. I can forgive someone who has always been so consistent for running out of steam on one book.
July 3, 2026
Last of the First - Recluse 26
I have eagerly read all the Saga of Recluse books. The storytelling, the world building, the action and intrigue are all first rate! This book is the end of a fantastic series and it is just as good as the first one.
I found LE Modesitt Jr's The Soprano Sorceress when it was first published and I've been a fan ever since.
I have eagerly read all the Saga of Recluse books. The storytelling, the world building, the action and intrigue are all first rate! This book is the end of a fantastic series and it is just as good as the first one.
I found LE Modesitt Jr's The Soprano Sorceress when it was first published and I've been a fan ever since.
July 3, 2026
As expected a great book
To me, this author it's probably the greatest author of the modern age. His worlds are seamless, his characters believable in his books and I think I've read everything. He's ever wrote, actually, I think, I own everything he's ever wrote. If it's been on the market, all in all a story, worth reading and a book worth owning
To me, this author it's probably the greatest author of the modern age. His worlds are seamless, his characters believable in his books and I think I've read everything. He's ever wrote, actually, I think, I own everything he's ever wrote. If it's been on the market, all in all a story, worth reading and a book worth owning
July 20, 2026
Best of the series.
While the length of the story was daunting, it
is a tremendously rich story, especially with complex political, military and economic themes. If you liked the Heirs of Cyador, you'll love this. I think the four books on Alyiakal also works well as a standalone series.
While the length of the story was daunting, it
is a tremendously rich story, especially with complex political, military and economic themes. If you liked the Heirs of Cyador, you'll love this. I think the four books on Alyiakal also works well as a standalone series.
July 6, 2026
Exceptional as always
I have read all of the recluse saga from book 1 to the current There needs to be a continuation of the series please do not stop here
There needs to be another book with the current characters
I have read all of the recluse saga from book 1 to the current There needs to be a continuation of the series please do not stop here
There needs to be another book with the current characters
July 12, 2026
This book is made up entirely of meetings, dinner parties, and circumspect letters. Modesitt is known for his political writings, and how money then affects the running of a country. This was nothing but bureaucracy.
July 14, 2026
another strong addition tying up the latest arc
I am a huge fan and enjoy all the stand alone and connected series written by L. E. Modesitt Jr. Biased and grateful for this addition!
I am a huge fan and enjoy all the stand alone and connected series written by L. E. Modesitt Jr. Biased and grateful for this addition!
July 2, 2026
Wow, loved it. I am going to read it again.
July 3, 2026
Excellent addition to the Saga.
Really makes me want to read something like FoA but for the Anglorian Unity. Finally get the other side of that coin!
Really makes me want to read something like FoA but for the Anglorian Unity. Finally get the other side of that coin!
July 3, 2026
Always a pleasure
Strong characters. I will immediately reread the book. Plot twists excellent. I feel I really know and like the people.
Strong characters. I will immediately reread the book. Plot twists excellent. I feel I really know and like the people.
July 4, 2026
Ggggrrrreat!
A very concise and well written novel. Having read all the Recluse books I can say this is outstanding
Congratulations
A very concise and well written novel. Having read all the Recluse books I can say this is outstanding
Congratulations
July 4, 2026
It felt like the end was maybe a little rushed, but otherwise an excellent close to the 4 book saga.
July 6, 2026
If this indeed is the last book, thank you Leland for such a wonderful series!
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