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Colony Lost: The Ghara Chronicles
Seven hundred fifty years ago, human colonists left Earth and settled on the moons of the distant gas giant Ghara. Civilization has flourished on Ghara’s fertile moons, but humanity’s drive to colonize and explore is still strong. Detecting plentiful mineral resources and a rich abundance of alien life on the nearby planet of Selva, the Gharian Colonists mount a dangerous expedition.Young newlywed marines Dustin and Melody will find themselves put to the ultimate test as they forge a way through fierce magnetic storms into an unknown and utterly alien world. As they risk life and limb, tensions mount at home, as not all of the colonists support this mission and its high cost of resources. Many are outright hostile towards the Marines and scientists who are setting out to colonize the new world.As the peace the four colonies have shared for almost 200 years starts to fracture, what the expedition finds living on Selva might very well be the worst thing humanity has ever dealt with.
- GenresScience Fiction
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2015
29 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Chris Philbrook
80 books443 followers About Chris Philbrook
I am the creator and author of Tesser: A Dragon Among Us as well as Elmoryn's The Kinless Trilogy, Colony Lost, Adrian's Undead Diary and the Darkness of Diggory Finch.
I've gone to a LOT of college. I've got a Business degree as well as a Psychology degree, and I've done the full program at the school of hard knocks. I've been a printing press operator, bouncer, purchasing agent, bodyguard, customer service representative, mental health counselor, and more. I can write about weird shit because I've done weird shit. Trust me.
I call the wonderful state of New Hampshire my home, but I love to travel. I love to read, write, play role playing games, miniatures games, video games, and Magic: The Gathering. When I find the time to be active, I like to hike, play basketball, and play football. I am married to a wonderful woman, and together we have two wonderful daughters.
I am the creator and author of Tesser: A Dragon Among Us as well as Elmoryn's The Kinless Trilogy, Colony Lost, Adrian's Undead Diary and the Darkness of Diggory Finch.
I've gone to a LOT of college. I've got a Business degree as well as a Psychology degree, and I've done the full program at the school of hard knocks. I've been a printing press operator, bouncer, purchasing agent, bodyguard, customer service representative, mental health counselor, and more. I can write about weird shit because I've done weird shit. Trust me.
I call the wonderful state of New Hampshire my home, but I love to travel. I love to read, write, play role playing games, miniatures games, video games, and Magic: The Gathering. When I find the time to be active, I like to hike, play basketball, and play football. I am married to a wonderful woman, and together we have two wonderful daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 19, 2017
My original Colony Lost audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
If you are looking for a good science fiction book containing space marines, sabotage, and underestimated indigenous creatures, I believe you cannot go wrong with “Colony Lost” by Chris Philbrook. The book is exceptionally well narrated by Kevin Stillwell; who at the time of this review has over seven hundred pieces narrated on Audible. If you take the good aspects from Starship Troopers and blend it with Aliens, including a bit of Saving Private Ryan, and a tad of The Thing, you will have a good understanding of what you can expect in this book. It is a well-told science fiction horror story, yet it has many of the elements one expects in a thought out story; no matter the genre. If space marines, exploration, and intrigue sound like your type of book, I recommend you pick up a copy of Lost Colony and get lost in both the action and adventure the author takes you. When you have one-liners such as something being, “like a monkey on amphetamines”, you get an idea of the fun and descriptive writing style from Mr. Phillbrook.
Some may be asking, what could go wrong when light-years of unforgiving space are between a squad of space marines sent to a planet for colonization purposes. They quickly meet rather unfriendly native creatures and their mission changes from seek and destroy to one of survival. What enhanced the level of anxiety, even more, was that the marine’s supplies of food, water, and ammunition were quite limited. The book feels vast and is full of both adventure and discovery. However, there are also issues occurring at the same time back on the home planet where clandestine activities along with a fair amount of intrigue make this book more than simply a space marines vs monster story. The book felt more complex and weighty. The planet itself made any quick rescue attempt difficult due to its atmospheric makeup and the vast distance separating them. Neither of these aspects seemed out of place or forced in the story.
I thought the author did a really good job of including a solid prologue along with a heartfelt dedication. The technology in the book felt new and fresh compared to many other books I have read in the genre. There was a fair amount of military banter, insults, and competition amongst the marines. However, the author also did a good job of including the bonding aspects showing the brotherhood of these members when events turn from bad to worse. There was an undying friendship not only focused on accomplishing the mission successfully, but also between one another. The book included some romantic aspects including the excitement of an unborn child and the pressure such puts on someone trying to survive. The characters had depth and complexity as the author added a fair amount of backstory to a few of them. Because of this, the reader better understands why a character acts or reacts the way they do.
Having listened to some of Kevin Stillwell other narrated works, I was not surprised to find a professionally produced piece of work. The book’s many characters along with their numerous accents were each performed without issue. The pace at which the book was read and the use of inflection made for a great listen. I also enjoyed the expressiveness used during times of action or concentrated tension. I’m not saying the audio was perfect as there were a few times I noticed slight volume inconsistencies and at times the female characters were more falsetto than I prefer, but overall the book’s narration was excellent.
A note to parents and younger readers. This book contains a fair amount of vulgar language, references to sexual subject matter, and some rather intense and graphic scenes of violence. I would recommend the book to only more mature readers.
In summary, if you are looking for an action-packed space marine survival story with a few extra twists, turns, and surprises, I think Colony Lost is a good choice for your audio library.
Audiobook was provided for review by the publisher.
If you are looking for a good science fiction book containing space marines, sabotage, and underestimated indigenous creatures, I believe you cannot go wrong with “Colony Lost” by Chris Philbrook. The book is exceptionally well narrated by Kevin Stillwell; who at the time of this review has over seven hundred pieces narrated on Audible. If you take the good aspects from Starship Troopers and blend it with Aliens, including a bit of Saving Private Ryan, and a tad of The Thing, you will have a good understanding of what you can expect in this book. It is a well-told science fiction horror story, yet it has many of the elements one expects in a thought out story; no matter the genre. If space marines, exploration, and intrigue sound like your type of book, I recommend you pick up a copy of Lost Colony and get lost in both the action and adventure the author takes you. When you have one-liners such as something being, “like a monkey on amphetamines”, you get an idea of the fun and descriptive writing style from Mr. Phillbrook.
Some may be asking, what could go wrong when light-years of unforgiving space are between a squad of space marines sent to a planet for colonization purposes. They quickly meet rather unfriendly native creatures and their mission changes from seek and destroy to one of survival. What enhanced the level of anxiety, even more, was that the marine’s supplies of food, water, and ammunition were quite limited. The book feels vast and is full of both adventure and discovery. However, there are also issues occurring at the same time back on the home planet where clandestine activities along with a fair amount of intrigue make this book more than simply a space marines vs monster story. The book felt more complex and weighty. The planet itself made any quick rescue attempt difficult due to its atmospheric makeup and the vast distance separating them. Neither of these aspects seemed out of place or forced in the story.
I thought the author did a really good job of including a solid prologue along with a heartfelt dedication. The technology in the book felt new and fresh compared to many other books I have read in the genre. There was a fair amount of military banter, insults, and competition amongst the marines. However, the author also did a good job of including the bonding aspects showing the brotherhood of these members when events turn from bad to worse. There was an undying friendship not only focused on accomplishing the mission successfully, but also between one another. The book included some romantic aspects including the excitement of an unborn child and the pressure such puts on someone trying to survive. The characters had depth and complexity as the author added a fair amount of backstory to a few of them. Because of this, the reader better understands why a character acts or reacts the way they do.
Having listened to some of Kevin Stillwell other narrated works, I was not surprised to find a professionally produced piece of work. The book’s many characters along with their numerous accents were each performed without issue. The pace at which the book was read and the use of inflection made for a great listen. I also enjoyed the expressiveness used during times of action or concentrated tension. I’m not saying the audio was perfect as there were a few times I noticed slight volume inconsistencies and at times the female characters were more falsetto than I prefer, but overall the book’s narration was excellent.
A note to parents and younger readers. This book contains a fair amount of vulgar language, references to sexual subject matter, and some rather intense and graphic scenes of violence. I would recommend the book to only more mature readers.
In summary, if you are looking for an action-packed space marine survival story with a few extra twists, turns, and surprises, I think Colony Lost is a good choice for your audio library.
Audiobook was provided for review by the publisher.
August 5, 2017
Colony Lost is a great novel which combines several genres into one enjoyable book. This is science fiction and usually science fiction books lose me when the hit you with a large info dump. This book is written the right way. There is just enough world building so you understand where the stage is set and why. The story flows smoothly and I was never lost. There are strong elements of horror with some truly scary monsters. There is plenty of action and adventure put into the mix. The pace of the story is always quick and it is never boring. There character building was very good without taking away from the action and gore. I cared about the characters and felt invested in their fate. The world building was very good as well and the planets sounded very cool. Overall this was a great novel that I read through quickly and enjoyed throughly. This is highly recommended.
July 15, 2017
Slow start but gets GOOD!
The beginning was slow and slightly awkward feeling, it took a few days of on and off reading to reach the point where I couldn't put the book down. Once the main characters got to the planet, things took off and the world became more interesting. Loved the ending, I'm looking forward to future books and learning what the bad things fear.
The beginning was slow and slightly awkward feeling, it took a few days of on and off reading to reach the point where I couldn't put the book down. Once the main characters got to the planet, things took off and the world became more interesting. Loved the ending, I'm looking forward to future books and learning what the bad things fear.
August 21, 2015
Keep 'em coming Chris
Been a huge fan since about mid way through Adrian's Undead Diary and I have read everything Chris Philbrook has put out. I was blown away by AUD, Elmoryn, Tesser, and all the shorts. Now I find myself hoping that he will continue The Children of Ghara. If you need more Dew to get it done Chris just tell me where to send it.
Been a huge fan since about mid way through Adrian's Undead Diary and I have read everything Chris Philbrook has put out. I was blown away by AUD, Elmoryn, Tesser, and all the shorts. Now I find myself hoping that he will continue The Children of Ghara. If you need more Dew to get it done Chris just tell me where to send it.
April 18, 2015
Good start to a new series
Once again, Chris has given us new characters to care about and put them into dangerous situations.
Good start to the series. I'd like to see how this new universe develops, I hope there is more in the future.
Once again, Chris has given us new characters to care about and put them into dangerous situations.
Good start to the series. I'd like to see how this new universe develops, I hope there is more in the future.
April 23, 2015
Great start to a new series???
I sure do hope so! As always, Mr. Philbrook delivers action and intrigue in his writing. As a big fan of AUD, I read this story with my fingers crossed, and it delivered!
I sure do hope so! As always, Mr. Philbrook delivers action and intrigue in his writing. As a big fan of AUD, I read this story with my fingers crossed, and it delivered!
December 19, 2017
I enjoyed this short story very much. The story grabbed me and I quickly began to like the characters. I hope Chris listens to his die hard fans and turns this short into a full length novel; or better yet, a series of novel's!
September 26, 2022
DNF @ 50%
If you ever wondered what a book without a protagonist is like, this is for you.
If all you care about is action, plot, and some generic sci-fi touches, this review isn't for you.
As the single star suggests, this was pretty bad. It didn't start well and I knew I should have stopped there. Naively, I was certain it had to get better since all that was missing was a single decent character to get behind. Sure, the writing was painfully amateur and the plot played out like a straight-to-DVD military sci-fi movie, but I read the blurb. I knew what I signed up for.
My expectations were rock bottom and yet somehow, the author couldn't even give us a protagonist. A pov character who's solely defined by being married and having a child on the way isn't what makes a protagonist. They had no motivation other than the vague desire to do their job and want their wife to be safe. And the other characters were even worse: generic, one-dimensional shells who talked like chatbots who knew they were in a book. Those who had any personality could be summed up in one or two words: wife, friend, grumpy scientist, boss, etc.
Even if this had an amazing plot (it didn't), the fact there wasn't a single person to make me even remotely care about what was happening made this impossible to read. Like how can anyone care about what's going on when every character is basically interchangeable?
If you ever wondered what a book without a protagonist is like, this is for you.
If all you care about is action, plot, and some generic sci-fi touches, this review isn't for you.
As the single star suggests, this was pretty bad. It didn't start well and I knew I should have stopped there. Naively, I was certain it had to get better since all that was missing was a single decent character to get behind. Sure, the writing was painfully amateur and the plot played out like a straight-to-DVD military sci-fi movie, but I read the blurb. I knew what I signed up for.
My expectations were rock bottom and yet somehow, the author couldn't even give us a protagonist. A pov character who's solely defined by being married and having a child on the way isn't what makes a protagonist. They had no motivation other than the vague desire to do their job and want their wife to be safe. And the other characters were even worse: generic, one-dimensional shells who talked like chatbots who knew they were in a book. Those who had any personality could be summed up in one or two words: wife, friend, grumpy scientist, boss, etc.
Even if this had an amazing plot (it didn't), the fact there wasn't a single person to make me even remotely care about what was happening made this impossible to read. Like how can anyone care about what's going on when every character is basically interchangeable?
August 25, 2018
This is a book about a colony on a new planet that goes horribly wrong. The book started off fairly strong and had some interesting world building but ultimately it started going downhill. So many things in this novel were just not believable or plausible. There are a few interesting and novel ideas, but they are a bit sparse. Many of the characters weren't likable at all, acted quite dumb, and the plot was a bit too predictable. Overall, its not too bad to listen to, but I doubt I would ever revisit it. The narrator did a super job.
NOTE: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
NOTE: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2017
Another must read story from an amazing author. This story takes you into a new, beautifully built world and sends you on a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns you don't see coming. Now I will say it starts a little slow, but in the case of a book like this, where we are being introduced to a whole new world, I expect it. Slow does not mean boring. It means he takes the necessary time to plant the seeds and craft this world to make it real before hitting go. If you are even thinking about reading this, please do! You won't regret it one little bit!
January 15, 2018
Another solid book by Chris Philbrook. This was my second foray into Chris' writing after AUD and while his consistently good writing carries over the differences are there too. Colony Lost is written from the perspectives of multiple characters and each one is different and well crafted. I also really enjoyed the development of the adversary in Colony Lost, as it is not typical from what I usually read. All in all I would recommend this to anyone that is a fan of Starship Troopers and other space exploration fans.
July 5, 2021
If you rolled the entire Starship Troopers series into a single book but without psychic NPH you would be looking at Colony Lost. Lots of bug killing action mixed with a nice underlying theme of deceit and the human proclivity to take what they want. Overall I enjoyed the story and the take on herbivore bugs and pro-creating via slime. A nice ending despite some book-tossing moments littered throughout.
August 19, 2017
Awesome
This book is out of the normal type of books I usually read. But let me say this, Chris Philbrook has done it again. I absolutely love this book! Great characters, great story. He really is one of the best. Thank you for another great book adventure. I hope you write more about the Selvan adventures.
This book is out of the normal type of books I usually read. But let me say this, Chris Philbrook has done it again. I absolutely love this book! Great characters, great story. He really is one of the best. Thank you for another great book adventure. I hope you write more about the Selvan adventures.
June 28, 2018
A fantastic Science Fiction that reminds me of James Cameron's Aliens with twist. Honestly a thrilling read. Great characters. I'd say this has taken the number two spot on my top three books of the year so far. If you like fast-paced action with characters you come to know and love, this story is for you.
July 25, 2017
Chris Philbrook
This is a must read. As usual Philbrook has characters that are real and you can relate to. Catches you on page one and holds you till the end. If you want an adventure come meet Dustin and travel with him.
This is a must read. As usual Philbrook has characters that are real and you can relate to. Catches you on page one and holds you till the end. If you want an adventure come meet Dustin and travel with him.
March 22, 2020
Outstanding! Chris Philbrook has created a totally alien, yet totally plausible, world. The creatures and the biology of this world are unique, disturbing, and totally believable. His characters are well developed and their true to life dialogue is even better. Loved this book!
August 15, 2017
Incredible
Loved this book from beginning to end. I think I read a little over half of it in one sitting. I can't wait for more.
Loved this book from beginning to end. I think I read a little over half of it in one sitting. I can't wait for more.
October 12, 2017
Amazing SF
Chris is always able to make me feel like I know his characters. I had some great belly laughs, but the end made me sob like a little girl
Chris is always able to make me feel like I know his characters. I had some great belly laughs, but the end made me sob like a little girl
October 19, 2017
This was a great read that will be worthy of a re-read after I clear my shelf.
January 27, 2019
An easy to read short story. Time flew by. I'll definitely be continuing on to the novel.
November 25, 2018
Disturbing
A bit too much horror for my taste. Language very blue when it seems unneeded. I did finish the book and router for the two main characters.
A bit too much horror for my taste. Language very blue when it seems unneeded. I did finish the book and router for the two main characters.
August 11, 2023
It's a good book. A "quite good" book, but not so brilliant in comparison to AUD. I'll still buy his next book though
December 12, 2017
If you are looking for a good science fiction book containing space marines, sabotage, and under estimated indigenous creatures, I believe you cannot go wrong with “Colony Lost” by Chris Philbrook. The book is exceptionally well narrated by Kevin Stillwell; who at the time of this review has over seven hundred pieces narrated on Audible. If you take the good aspects from Starship Troopers and blend it with Aliens, include a bit of Saving Private Ryan, and a tad of The Thing, you will have a good understanding of what you can expect in this book. It is a well told science fiction horror story, yet it has many of the elements one expects in a thought out story; no matter the genre. If space marines, exploration, and intrigue sound like your type of book, I recommend you pick up a copy of Lost Colony and get lost in both the action and adventure the author takes you. When you have one-liners such as something being, “like a monkey on amphetamines”, you get an idea of the fun and descriptive writing style from Mr. Phillbrook.
Some may be asking, what could go wrong when light-years of unforgiving space are between a squad of space marines sent to a planet for colonization purposes. The quickly meet rather unfriendly native creatures and their mission changes from seek and destroy to one of survival. What enhanced the level of anxiety even more was that the marine’s supplies of food, water, and ammunition were quite limited. The book feels vast and is full of both adventure and discovery. However, there are also issues occurring at the same time back on the home planet where clandestine activities along with a fair amount of intrigue make this book more than simply a space marines vs monster story. The book felt more complex and weighty. The planet itself made any quick rescue attempt difficult do to its atmospheric makeup and the vast distance separating them. Neither of these aspects seemed out of place or forced in the story.
I thought the author did a really good job of including a solid prologue along with a heart-felt dedication. The technology in the book felt new and fresh compared to many other books I have read in the genre. There was a fair amount of military banter, insults and competition amongst the marines. However, the author also did a good job of including the bonding aspects showing the brotherhood of these members when events turn from bad to worse. There was an undying friendship not only focused on accomplishing the mission successfully, but also between one another. The book included some romantic aspects including the excitement of an unborn child and the pressure such puts on someone trying to survive. The characters had depth and complexity as the author added a fair amount of backstory to a few of them. Because of this, the reader better understands why a character acts or reacts the way they do.
Having listened to some of Kevin Stillwell other narrated works, I was not surprised to find a professionally produced piece of work. The book’s many characters along with their numerous accents were each performed without issue. The pace at which the book was read and the use of inflection made for a great listen. I also enjoyed the expressiveness used during times of action or concentrated tension. I’m not saying the audio was perfect as there were a few times I noticed slight volume inconsistencies and at times the female characters were more falsetto than I prefer, but overall the book’s narration was excellent.
A note to parents and younger readers. This book contains a fair amount of vulgar language, references to sexual subject matter, and some rather intense and graphic scenes of violence. I would recommend the book to only more mature readers.
In summary, if you are looking for an action-packed space marine survival story with a few extra twists, turns, and surprises, I think Colony Lost is a good choice for your audio library.
Some may be asking, what could go wrong when light-years of unforgiving space are between a squad of space marines sent to a planet for colonization purposes. The quickly meet rather unfriendly native creatures and their mission changes from seek and destroy to one of survival. What enhanced the level of anxiety even more was that the marine’s supplies of food, water, and ammunition were quite limited. The book feels vast and is full of both adventure and discovery. However, there are also issues occurring at the same time back on the home planet where clandestine activities along with a fair amount of intrigue make this book more than simply a space marines vs monster story. The book felt more complex and weighty. The planet itself made any quick rescue attempt difficult do to its atmospheric makeup and the vast distance separating them. Neither of these aspects seemed out of place or forced in the story.
I thought the author did a really good job of including a solid prologue along with a heart-felt dedication. The technology in the book felt new and fresh compared to many other books I have read in the genre. There was a fair amount of military banter, insults and competition amongst the marines. However, the author also did a good job of including the bonding aspects showing the brotherhood of these members when events turn from bad to worse. There was an undying friendship not only focused on accomplishing the mission successfully, but also between one another. The book included some romantic aspects including the excitement of an unborn child and the pressure such puts on someone trying to survive. The characters had depth and complexity as the author added a fair amount of backstory to a few of them. Because of this, the reader better understands why a character acts or reacts the way they do.
Having listened to some of Kevin Stillwell other narrated works, I was not surprised to find a professionally produced piece of work. The book’s many characters along with their numerous accents were each performed without issue. The pace at which the book was read and the use of inflection made for a great listen. I also enjoyed the expressiveness used during times of action or concentrated tension. I’m not saying the audio was perfect as there were a few times I noticed slight volume inconsistencies and at times the female characters were more falsetto than I prefer, but overall the book’s narration was excellent.
A note to parents and younger readers. This book contains a fair amount of vulgar language, references to sexual subject matter, and some rather intense and graphic scenes of violence. I would recommend the book to only more mature readers.
In summary, if you are looking for an action-packed space marine survival story with a few extra twists, turns, and surprises, I think Colony Lost is a good choice for your audio library.
May 10, 2020
I wasn’t sure about this one, because I’m not generally into sci-fi, but it turned out to be REALLY good. It’s been a couple years actually since I’ve read it and I can still picture the creatures, the buildings and the mushroom “trees” perfectly in my mind, because it was so descriptive. I only took a star off because it was a little slow at the beginning. Overall though, I’m really happy I read it!
September 13, 2017
I loved this new offering from Chris Philbrook. It's different than his previous series, more Sci-fi than fantasy. Although it's different, you can tell CP is no stranger to the genre because it was a kick-ass story! Action, monster bugs, zombie bugs, giant vegetable like vegetation with killer slime, traitors, and impassable and deadly atmospheric obstacles. Sounds like fun, right?
There is also a new narrator in the mix. Most of CP's books are narrated by James Foster, whom I love. For me the narrator is almost more important than the story and it's hard for me to accept new narrators. I was so glad when Kevin Stillwell knocked it out of the park on this.
This is a great storyline. I hope CP writes more in the series!
There is also a new narrator in the mix. Most of CP's books are narrated by James Foster, whom I love. For me the narrator is almost more important than the story and it's hard for me to accept new narrators. I was so glad when Kevin Stillwell knocked it out of the park on this.
This is a great storyline. I hope CP writes more in the series!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews