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Oarthecan Star Saga #3
Captains of Oartheca
Honor. Betrayal. Desire. The fate of a world in the hands of two captains who refuse to let go."Captains of Oartheca by James Siewert is a spectacular third book and, hand over heart, Siewert continues to go from strength to strength." -- Jamie Michele, Reader's Favorite Reviews.
Who would have thought that being the first human male to set foot on Oartheca could ignite a firestorm? But for Captain Rowland Hale—former cyber-thief turned novice ambassador—problems are just the beginning. Tasked with bringing Oartheca under the Coalition of Allied Planetary Systems, Rowland must survive sabotage, political treachery, and enemies who would rather see him dead than succeed. His mission promises peace and prosperity. The truth promises anything but.
At his side—always, even in chains—stands Toar Grithrawrscion. Once a proud captain, now a disgraced drone, Toar has been arrested for violating the sacred Decree Against Human Contact. His crime? Loving a man he was never meant to love. His punishment could be exile… or worse.
As Rowland and Toar face court intrigue, ruthless barons, and the shadow of war with the Pryok’tel, their forbidden bond becomes both their greatest strength and their most dangerous vulnerability. Together, they must loyalty to duty, or loyalty to each other.The Oarthecan Star Saga continues—sweeping, sensual, and utterly unstoppable.
Who would have thought that being the first human male to set foot on Oartheca could ignite a firestorm? But for Captain Rowland Hale—former cyber-thief turned novice ambassador—problems are just the beginning. Tasked with bringing Oartheca under the Coalition of Allied Planetary Systems, Rowland must survive sabotage, political treachery, and enemies who would rather see him dead than succeed. His mission promises peace and prosperity. The truth promises anything but.
At his side—always, even in chains—stands Toar Grithrawrscion. Once a proud captain, now a disgraced drone, Toar has been arrested for violating the sacred Decree Against Human Contact. His crime? Loving a man he was never meant to love. His punishment could be exile… or worse.
As Rowland and Toar face court intrigue, ruthless barons, and the shadow of war with the Pryok’tel, their forbidden bond becomes both their greatest strength and their most dangerous vulnerability. Together, they must loyalty to duty, or loyalty to each other.The Oarthecan Star Saga continues—sweeping, sensual, and utterly unstoppable.
- GenresScience Fiction
599 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 23, 2025
*4.5* If you are a fan of sci-fi, and gay romance, this is such an entertaining and all encompassing series.
Sometimes the author leans a little sci-fi heavy, but the emotional core of these characters is always solid. They feel real, vulnerable, and full of heart.
Around the 70% mark it’s battle after battle, with some of the most intense hand-to-hand combat scenes I’ve read. Phenomenal pacing and so much tension.
Tropes/themes:
Gay/mm romance
On-page intimacy
Space opera adventure
Found family
Political intrigue
Military sci-fi
Morally grey choices
Nature vs nurture
Ethics of war
Cliffhanger
Like all the best sci-fi, this book raises great questions:
Is it nature or nurture shaping these characters?
Would a different environment create a different version of you?
Can you love someone whose belief system is fundamentally unlike your own?
Is it ever ethical to eliminate the children of your enemy?
A very slow start but an absolutely gripping finish. I can’t wait for more.
*Series must be read in order
Sometimes the author leans a little sci-fi heavy, but the emotional core of these characters is always solid. They feel real, vulnerable, and full of heart.
Around the 70% mark it’s battle after battle, with some of the most intense hand-to-hand combat scenes I’ve read. Phenomenal pacing and so much tension.
Tropes/themes:
Gay/mm romance
On-page intimacy
Space opera adventure
Found family
Political intrigue
Military sci-fi
Morally grey choices
Nature vs nurture
Ethics of war
Cliffhanger
Like all the best sci-fi, this book raises great questions:
Is it nature or nurture shaping these characters?
Would a different environment create a different version of you?
Can you love someone whose belief system is fundamentally unlike your own?
Is it ever ethical to eliminate the children of your enemy?
A very slow start but an absolutely gripping finish. I can’t wait for more.
*Series must be read in order
November 4, 2025
Siewert knocks it out of the quadrant again with this next installment in the Oarthcan Star Saga, which is not a trilogy, an unfounded assumption I made going in. I have no idea how many more volumes may be planned, but although I prefer stories that have a tangible endpoint (even if not yet written), I'll definitely keep reading any books that follow. I don't have any hot man/bear-man epic sci-fi biosociopolitical hacking romantic space war saga that beats this one in my life, after all.
This book is almost twice the length of Allure of Oartheca and Barons of Oartheca, and I found myself moderately impatient with the first half. It's not that nothing exciting was happening: there were bursts of action, like assassination attempts, although it primarily dealt with political and personal matters on Oartheca, which in itself is fraught and intriguing new territory for the series. (One of the things I've loved about the series is the thoroughly-considered implications of a race of single-gender eusocial werebear-like beings whose ruling and reproductive class just happens to resemble human males, who just happen to emit pheromones that deeply affect the bear dudes.) Eventually I realized that what I was anxious for was ... the Pyrok'tel. Damn, I love these delicious villains. They're vicious, intelligent, competent, physically threatening, completely logical within their own framework, technologically advanced, and cannibalistic unless they have other enslaved races to eat (which they do.) I had little doubt they would show up again in this book, despite that the initial setting was out of their territory, and I was not disappointed. I was elated, in fact, when Rowland (the human MC) went over his plan to infiltrate a Pyrok'tel outpost, because it was loaded with all kinds of things that could go epically wrong.
And epically wrong things indeed went, in wildly different directions than I anticipated.
The characters are delightful. Toar, especially, is a treat, a complex blend of cuddly teddy bear and hot growly "bear" (rawr) and loyal friend and clansman who is slow to anger but a terror when he gets there, a mighty warrior and a tender-hearted friend. There is a strong found-family component to the series, something I didn't used to know would appeal to me like it does, coming from a grimdark fantasy reading background. The appeal extends to virtually all Human, Oarth, and AI characters that cross series entries.
Look, I'm neither gay nor furry nor a romance reader, and if you are gay and/or furry and/or a romance reader there's plenty to satisfy you here, including the wonderful inclusion of the multi-day formal orgy essential social event that is the "high denning" of the season, but the series transcends any and all categories, deftly blending those factors with intelligent and believable sci-fi worldbuilding, blistering action sequences, complications up the wazoo spanning technological, interpersonal, cultural, galactic political, and romantic realms, creating joyous, uncozy, unique genre-blending books that will bring a smile to anyone with an open heart.
My thanks to the author for an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is almost twice the length of Allure of Oartheca and Barons of Oartheca, and I found myself moderately impatient with the first half. It's not that nothing exciting was happening: there were bursts of action, like assassination attempts, although it primarily dealt with political and personal matters on Oartheca, which in itself is fraught and intriguing new territory for the series. (One of the things I've loved about the series is the thoroughly-considered implications of a race of single-gender eusocial werebear-like beings whose ruling and reproductive class just happens to resemble human males, who just happen to emit pheromones that deeply affect the bear dudes.) Eventually I realized that what I was anxious for was ... the Pyrok'tel. Damn, I love these delicious villains. They're vicious, intelligent, competent, physically threatening, completely logical within their own framework, technologically advanced, and cannibalistic unless they have other enslaved races to eat (which they do.) I had little doubt they would show up again in this book, despite that the initial setting was out of their territory, and I was not disappointed. I was elated, in fact, when Rowland (the human MC) went over his plan to infiltrate a Pyrok'tel outpost, because it was loaded with all kinds of things that could go epically wrong.
And epically wrong things indeed went, in wildly different directions than I anticipated.
The characters are delightful. Toar, especially, is a treat, a complex blend of cuddly teddy bear and hot growly "bear" (rawr) and loyal friend and clansman who is slow to anger but a terror when he gets there, a mighty warrior and a tender-hearted friend. There is a strong found-family component to the series, something I didn't used to know would appeal to me like it does, coming from a grimdark fantasy reading background. The appeal extends to virtually all Human, Oarth, and AI characters that cross series entries.
Look, I'm neither gay nor furry nor a romance reader, and if you are gay and/or furry and/or a romance reader there's plenty to satisfy you here, including the wonderful inclusion of the multi-day formal orgy essential social event that is the "high denning" of the season, but the series transcends any and all categories, deftly blending those factors with intelligent and believable sci-fi worldbuilding, blistering action sequences, complications up the wazoo spanning technological, interpersonal, cultural, galactic political, and romantic realms, creating joyous, uncozy, unique genre-blending books that will bring a smile to anyone with an open heart.
My thanks to the author for an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
This is a spectacular book.
The high standard set by the other books in this series is continued, dare I say, maybe even taken to a whole other level of skillful writing by successfully combining a space romp with a compelling love story and nuanced questions on the ethics of war.
James Siewert knows his world and characters incredibly well and it shines through in his writing and world building. The dual narrative showing both the protagonists' experiences and thoughts creates a rich reading experience and means both Rowland and Toar are fully realised and sympathic people to spend time with.
The only minus is that I want the next book in the series right now! I cannot wait to see how their adventures through the stars continues.
The high standard set by the other books in this series is continued, dare I say, maybe even taken to a whole other level of skillful writing by successfully combining a space romp with a compelling love story and nuanced questions on the ethics of war.
James Siewert knows his world and characters incredibly well and it shines through in his writing and world building. The dual narrative showing both the protagonists' experiences and thoughts creates a rich reading experience and means both Rowland and Toar are fully realised and sympathic people to spend time with.
The only minus is that I want the next book in the series right now! I cannot wait to see how their adventures through the stars continues.
December 18, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Before I get the review, I want to issue a heads up: this is the third part in an ongoing Oartheca Star Saga series and, while I will try to minimize spoilers, I won’t be able to avoid them entirely. So consider yourself forewarned.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Before I get the review, I want to issue a heads up: this is the third part in an ongoing Oartheca Star Saga series and, while I will try to minimize spoilers, I won’t be able to avoid them entirely. So consider yourself forewarned.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
November 14, 2025
Great Read!
I read a lot and I’m excited to say this is truly one of the best series I’ve ever read. It’s going to be hard to wait until I can find out what happens with Toar and Row. While I usual would skip books until all come out if there was some kind of cliffhanger, this series is just to good to put down at any time. While the books seem long, when you start reading you honestly will wish they were longer.... Epic Series
I read a lot and I’m excited to say this is truly one of the best series I’ve ever read. It’s going to be hard to wait until I can find out what happens with Toar and Row. While I usual would skip books until all come out if there was some kind of cliffhanger, this series is just to good to put down at any time. While the books seem long, when you start reading you honestly will wish they were longer.... Epic Series
November 26, 2025
There’s a lot to like here: this is a lengthy work set in an already richly developed world full of interesting and memorable characters and plot developments that keep things interesting in pretty much every sense of the word. So much here works really well, but a special tip of the hat to the world building, which is epic and immersive.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2026
What a successful third book in the Oarthecan saga! Love Toar and Rowland - very relatable sci-fi characters with realistic issues trying to work on their multi-species relationship, each with his own world view. Story takes the reader through so many unexpected twists and turns - a real page-turner! Can’t wait for book four!
April 25, 2026
A plot buoyed by fight-action drama, subterfuge and political intrigue, double-crossing and espionage, loads of gadgetry and intel-hacking, some judiciously spaced M-M action sequences and of course great characters (main and secondary). I thought this would be the final book of a trilogy but no! Dangers of Oartheca is apparently on the way - huzzah!
February 2, 2026
So good, action packed, awesome SciFi — can’t wait for the next one!
April 1, 2026
“I believe we were about to strike our deal, Captain Hale. A CAPS thief for an Oarth captain?”
Captain Rowland Hale II, 36, is now a CAPS Ambassador. In fact, the CAPS want Oartheca to join up, and Rowland’s job is to convince them.
Toar Grithrawrscion (77 in Oarthecan years; mid-forties in the human equivalent) is under arrest for defying the Decree.
After the diversion and separation in book two, seeing the growth between Rowland and Toar is awesome. Shifting narrative focus to more of their relationship is a bold departure—and one that reaps serious rewards.
Assassination attempt. Shuttle crashes. Mysterious nano-tech. A furious Myliorian ghosting my comms. Political power plays by planet-ruling oligarchs. And now, a mission that might decide the fate of an entire species—and the man I’m pretty sure I love. Yeah…plate’s a little full.
Toar’s POVs are extremely enthusiastic. Impossible not to grin while reading him.
Meeting with the Archbaron Tasert is a cards-on-the-table moment. Mission: Her’kez Nine, Asset Processing Facility, on the planet Hygo’lec.
Blue Boy is back. Toar’s case and “trial.”
And why should they not? I’ve braved the Decree to win the affections of the most majestic baron that ever did live, and as my reward, I den with a beauty that goes unrivaled.
Rowley and Sugarcoat. Monogamy. 💀 🙌🏻
L-bombs slide in super well. 😉 The joy in their denning is awesome…though lacks the strong detail of book one.
Training missions. Traitor in the midst…
Hale’s Gamble — very on the nose.
Stellar action. The firefights and ship-killing are 🤩
The transponder from the vulture. Pirate raid.
Rowland’s hacking and jacking is pushed to new levels. Stasis chamber. The Deathcubes. Becoming one with the Asset Processing System.
Espionage, disguise, infiltration…
Rowland’s innovative, on-the-fly approach, coupled with Toar’s resolute leadership—captivating and compelling.
Deep into the heart of Pryok’tel territory. The mission is amazing. The narrative is taut but uncompromising. The most focused this author’s ever been. It’s a joy to see him grow and flourish.
The point of discordance is Rowland’s sympathy for the Pryok’tel.
“Do you still love me, my Baron? Now that you understand my truths?”
“Yes. But I don’t think I should.”
The MACE. Insanely cool weapons. Toar’s hand-to-hand combat…
I just wish Rowland could see that and understand that I am not the killer he thinks I am—I am a warrior, and I must do what war demands.
Losses. The Hegemony’s Oarth.
Dark Rowland. Axiom.
💥 💥 💥
Top-notch world-building. This is how it’s done. There’s good science fiction. There’s great science fiction. And then there’s James Siewert. 👑
Some turn in that ending. Our heroes will now have quite the obstacles to overcome.
“A better sight for sorer eyes I’ve never seen.”
“Same here, bud, it’s been a hell of a day.”
Captain Rowland Hale II, 36, is now a CAPS Ambassador. In fact, the CAPS want Oartheca to join up, and Rowland’s job is to convince them.
Toar Grithrawrscion (77 in Oarthecan years; mid-forties in the human equivalent) is under arrest for defying the Decree.
After the diversion and separation in book two, seeing the growth between Rowland and Toar is awesome. Shifting narrative focus to more of their relationship is a bold departure—and one that reaps serious rewards.
Assassination attempt. Shuttle crashes. Mysterious nano-tech. A furious Myliorian ghosting my comms. Political power plays by planet-ruling oligarchs. And now, a mission that might decide the fate of an entire species—and the man I’m pretty sure I love. Yeah…plate’s a little full.
Toar’s POVs are extremely enthusiastic. Impossible not to grin while reading him.
Meeting with the Archbaron Tasert is a cards-on-the-table moment. Mission: Her’kez Nine, Asset Processing Facility, on the planet Hygo’lec.
Blue Boy is back. Toar’s case and “trial.”
And why should they not? I’ve braved the Decree to win the affections of the most majestic baron that ever did live, and as my reward, I den with a beauty that goes unrivaled.
Rowley and Sugarcoat. Monogamy. 💀 🙌🏻
L-bombs slide in super well. 😉 The joy in their denning is awesome…though lacks the strong detail of book one.
Training missions. Traitor in the midst…
Hale’s Gamble — very on the nose.
Stellar action. The firefights and ship-killing are 🤩
The transponder from the vulture. Pirate raid.
Rowland’s hacking and jacking is pushed to new levels. Stasis chamber. The Deathcubes. Becoming one with the Asset Processing System.
Espionage, disguise, infiltration…
Rowland’s innovative, on-the-fly approach, coupled with Toar’s resolute leadership—captivating and compelling.
Deep into the heart of Pryok’tel territory. The mission is amazing. The narrative is taut but uncompromising. The most focused this author’s ever been. It’s a joy to see him grow and flourish.
The point of discordance is Rowland’s sympathy for the Pryok’tel.
“Do you still love me, my Baron? Now that you understand my truths?”
“Yes. But I don’t think I should.”
The MACE. Insanely cool weapons. Toar’s hand-to-hand combat…
I just wish Rowland could see that and understand that I am not the killer he thinks I am—I am a warrior, and I must do what war demands.
Losses. The Hegemony’s Oarth.
Dark Rowland. Axiom.
💥 💥 💥
Top-notch world-building. This is how it’s done. There’s good science fiction. There’s great science fiction. And then there’s James Siewert. 👑
Some turn in that ending. Our heroes will now have quite the obstacles to overcome.
“A better sight for sorer eyes I’ve never seen.”
“Same here, bud, it’s been a hell of a day.”
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews