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Chronicles of Alsea #4
Catalyst
After disobeying orders to save the planet of Alsea, Captain Ekatya Serrado has returned home to something less than a hero’s welcome. At her side is Dr. Lhyn Rivers, now the foremost authority on a culture that fascinates and terrifies.
Ekatya and Lhyn share a they are tyrees, linked by an Alsean empathic bond that should be biologically impossible for Gaians. Exposure could destroy Ekatya’s career. But when both women are drawn into a high stakes political game, their tyree bond may be all that stands between them and a terrible fate.
In Catalyst, the fourth book of the Chronicles of Alsea, the bonds of love, friendship, and family are redefined. The intersection of the Alsean and Gaian cultures has profoundly changed both—and become a catalyst for miracles.
Ekatya and Lhyn share a they are tyrees, linked by an Alsean empathic bond that should be biologically impossible for Gaians. Exposure could destroy Ekatya’s career. But when both women are drawn into a high stakes political game, their tyree bond may be all that stands between them and a terrible fate.
In Catalyst, the fourth book of the Chronicles of Alsea, the bonds of love, friendship, and family are redefined. The intersection of the Alsean and Gaian cultures has profoundly changed both—and become a catalyst for miracles.
434 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2016
41 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Fletcher DeLancey
26 books316 followersFletcher DeLancey spent her early career as a science educator, which was the perfect combination of her two great loves: language and science. These days she combines them while writing science fiction.
She is an Oregon expatriate who left her beloved state when she met a Portuguese woman and had to choose between home and heart. She chose heart. Now she lives with her wife and son in the beautiful sunny Algarve, where she writes full-time, teaches Pilates, tries to learn the local birds and plants, and samples every regional Portuguese dish she can get her hands on. (There are many. It’s going to take a while.)
She is best known for her science fiction/fantasy series, Chronicles of Alsea, now comprised of four novels and a novella. Among them, the Alsea books have won an Independent Publisher's Award (2017 bronze medal), a Golden Crown Literary Society Award, a Rainbow Award, and been shortlisted for a Lambda Literary Award.
Fletcher believes that women need far more representation in science fiction and fantasy, and takes great pleasure in writing complex stories with strong, believable women heading up the action. Her day is made every time another reader says, “I didn’t think I liked science fiction, but then I read yours.”
She is an Oregon expatriate who left her beloved state when she met a Portuguese woman and had to choose between home and heart. She chose heart. Now she lives with her wife and son in the beautiful sunny Algarve, where she writes full-time, teaches Pilates, tries to learn the local birds and plants, and samples every regional Portuguese dish she can get her hands on. (There are many. It’s going to take a while.)
She is best known for her science fiction/fantasy series, Chronicles of Alsea, now comprised of four novels and a novella. Among them, the Alsea books have won an Independent Publisher's Award (2017 bronze medal), a Golden Crown Literary Society Award, a Rainbow Award, and been shortlisted for a Lambda Literary Award.
Fletcher believes that women need far more representation in science fiction and fantasy, and takes great pleasure in writing complex stories with strong, believable women heading up the action. Her day is made every time another reader says, “I didn’t think I liked science fiction, but then I read yours.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 27, 2017
This book is quite a bit of a departure structurally from the first three in the series in that it is mostly told in flashbacks. In the first book, Alseans encounter aliens for the first time in their planet's history, both friendly and hostile. The near-apocalyptic battle for the planet afterwards drove much of the action in the first book. The second and third books chronicle the efforts of the native Alsean leader Lancer Tal in dealing with the political fallout and worldwide panic from the sudden alien intrusion into their once peaceful lives, while deftly balancing a personal relationship that can either make or break her absolute hold on power.
Chronolocially, the fourth book Catalyst follows immediately after the third, as the featured event is Lancer Tal's 'honeymoon', which of course, follows their fabulous 'wedding' from the last book. :) But the meat of the entire book are the flashbacks to much more serious parallel events that took place halfway across the galaxy--to the friendly aliens (humans) who helped the Alseans defeat the hostile ones.
In between honeymoon rituals for the Alsean newlyweds, the human guests (Capt. Ekatya Serrado and her anthropologist partner Lhyn) recount what turns out to be a horrific time back in their own world, as they deal with the political fallout of assisting the Alseans and fringe group fearmongers spreading the dangers of the mind control powers of Alseans.
The problem with using flashbacks as a story-telling device for the major plot points is that it almost completely deflates the element of surprise and any feeling of anticipation. It's most telling when the flashback involves suspenseful action scenes. Imagine how thrilling it is to read Ekatya recount her latest brush with death while she sips latte with the Alseans, perfectly safe and sound. I couldn't help feeling at the start that it was a wasted opportunity. Capt. Serrado's recounting of her adventures felt more like an episode-of-the-week TV series. The scenes themselves, whilte interesting, didn't have much coherence, and felt disconnected and almost random.
It wasn't somewhere until around midway into this very long book that I realized how elegantly woven and ingenius the intricate plot is. While Ekatya and Lhyn's adventures may initially feel like those random side-quests that gamers are familiar with, taken together, they do gradually build up to a purposeful end. (Don't know why I ever doubted the author of that amazing Past Imperfect series. :) While the action scenes are competently staged, they're not the be-all and end-all of the book. From the further development of both Capt. Serrado and Lhyn's character, to their uber-complicated relationships with Lancer Tal, Lanaril, Dr. Wells, assorted staff and even Shokolov, the bad guy, this is what the book is all about: an incredible character study of Ekatya, and to a lesser extent, Lhyn and all the other characters I mentioned. The whole idea of the honeymoon vacation as the basic foundation of the plot works perfectly as it allows all the pivotal characters to interact, react, and resolve all their past and present issues, without the distraction of official duties or titles. The relaxed atmosphere of the honeymoon retreat also served an effective cushion against a truly horrific event that thankfully, happened in the past.
It was such pure reading pleasure to feel the initially disjointed dots slowly connecting as the chapters rolled by. I so enjoyed being putty in the hands this master storyteller that I didn't even care (or even noticed, at first) that aside from the honeymoon, nothing else happened by way of story progression :( Oh well, as long as this isn't the last word on Alsea, I'm happy.
4.8 stars
ARC from Ylva
Chronolocially, the fourth book Catalyst follows immediately after the third, as the featured event is Lancer Tal's 'honeymoon', which of course, follows their fabulous 'wedding' from the last book. :) But the meat of the entire book are the flashbacks to much more serious parallel events that took place halfway across the galaxy--to the friendly aliens (humans) who helped the Alseans defeat the hostile ones.
In between honeymoon rituals for the Alsean newlyweds, the human guests (Capt. Ekatya Serrado and her anthropologist partner Lhyn) recount what turns out to be a horrific time back in their own world, as they deal with the political fallout of assisting the Alseans and fringe group fearmongers spreading the dangers of the mind control powers of Alseans.
The problem with using flashbacks as a story-telling device for the major plot points is that it almost completely deflates the element of surprise and any feeling of anticipation. It's most telling when the flashback involves suspenseful action scenes. Imagine how thrilling it is to read Ekatya recount her latest brush with death while she sips latte with the Alseans, perfectly safe and sound. I couldn't help feeling at the start that it was a wasted opportunity. Capt. Serrado's recounting of her adventures felt more like an episode-of-the-week TV series. The scenes themselves, whilte interesting, didn't have much coherence, and felt disconnected and almost random.
It wasn't somewhere until around midway into this very long book that I realized how elegantly woven and ingenius the intricate plot is. While Ekatya and Lhyn's adventures may initially feel like those random side-quests that gamers are familiar with, taken together, they do gradually build up to a purposeful end. (Don't know why I ever doubted the author of that amazing Past Imperfect series. :) While the action scenes are competently staged, they're not the be-all and end-all of the book. From the further development of both Capt. Serrado and Lhyn's character, to their uber-complicated relationships with Lancer Tal, Lanaril, Dr. Wells, assorted staff and even Shokolov, the bad guy, this is what the book is all about: an incredible character study of Ekatya, and to a lesser extent, Lhyn and all the other characters I mentioned. The whole idea of the honeymoon vacation as the basic foundation of the plot works perfectly as it allows all the pivotal characters to interact, react, and resolve all their past and present issues, without the distraction of official duties or titles. The relaxed atmosphere of the honeymoon retreat also served an effective cushion against a truly horrific event that thankfully, happened in the past.
It was such pure reading pleasure to feel the initially disjointed dots slowly connecting as the chapters rolled by. I so enjoyed being putty in the hands this master storyteller that I didn't even care (or even noticed, at first) that aside from the honeymoon, nothing else happened by way of story progression :( Oh well, as long as this isn't the last word on Alsea, I'm happy.
4.8 stars
ARC from Ylva
July 12, 2018
On the occasion of a happy reunion of the Gaians (humans) Ekatya and Lhyn with their Alsean close friends, we come to know what happened to Ekatya and Lhyn during the period of their absence from Alsea, their adventures, including a very hard time for them, and we have an insight of how their Tyree connection evolves.
Also, the reunion is a moment to explore some of the personal relationship left unfinished between the two Gaians and the Alseans closest to Andira Tal, who is now opening to include Ekatya and Lhyn as members of her own extended family.
As we have come to expect from her, DeLancey gives us another book rich and deep in feelings. The main forumla in her books is that her characters are all extraordinary, all heroines. And she puts them in very difficult, hard situations, to see how they react both with their heads and with their hearts.
This time the characters (and the readers with them) have to undergo really heavy times, especially Lhyn. The book is somehow more gloomy than the previous ones. Reading is more painful, I’d say. We have to endure it a bit, but it’s worth it at the end.
In this book the main character is Ekatya, and she proves herself worthy to be considered a real Alsean warrior. But the heart of the story, and of Ekatya herself, is Lhyn. I deeply felt for her, and as a result, she’d now dearer for me.
It’s a story of strong contrasts between evil minded, unscrupulous individuals and the friendship, love and the sacredness of intimate interpersonal bonds.
As for Vellmar the Blade, I’m a bit uncertain about the choice of telling a tale, recounting the past. Personally I didn’t liked it in Vellmar (a book I loved anyway) because it gives a sense of “everything is already happened” and not of seeing how the story evolves in the present. But probably in Catalyst is for the best, because it lessen the pain a good bit.
I loved all the books of the Alsean Chronicles so far. Catalyst included.
Also, the reunion is a moment to explore some of the personal relationship left unfinished between the two Gaians and the Alseans closest to Andira Tal, who is now opening to include Ekatya and Lhyn as members of her own extended family.
As we have come to expect from her, DeLancey gives us another book rich and deep in feelings. The main forumla in her books is that her characters are all extraordinary, all heroines. And she puts them in very difficult, hard situations, to see how they react both with their heads and with their hearts.
This time the characters (and the readers with them) have to undergo really heavy times, especially Lhyn. The book is somehow more gloomy than the previous ones. Reading is more painful, I’d say. We have to endure it a bit, but it’s worth it at the end.
In this book the main character is Ekatya, and she proves herself worthy to be considered a real Alsean warrior. But the heart of the story, and of Ekatya herself, is Lhyn. I deeply felt for her, and as a result, she’d now dearer for me.
It’s a story of strong contrasts between evil minded, unscrupulous individuals and the friendship, love and the sacredness of intimate interpersonal bonds.
As for Vellmar the Blade, I’m a bit uncertain about the choice of telling a tale, recounting the past. Personally I didn’t liked it in Vellmar (a book I loved anyway) because it gives a sense of “everything is already happened” and not of seeing how the story evolves in the present. But probably in Catalyst is for the best, because it lessen the pain a good bit.
I loved all the books of the Alsean Chronicles so far. Catalyst included.
January 19, 2017
The thing that I love about this entire series is how effortlessly it transports me to a completely different world. I love how easy it is to engage with, and relate to, the characters, and to see Alsea through their eyes. This book is no exception. Chronologically the events in this book follow on from Without a Front (The Warriors Challenge), but occur before Vellmar the Blade.
The main story takes place planet side on Alsea, where Andira and Salomen are on their bonding break with their families, both related and adopted. As such, both Ekatya and Lhyn are invited along as part of Andira's adopted family. We hear about Ekatya and Lhyn's story through a series of flashbacks interspersed with current events on the bonding break.
Not all of the story is peaches and roses, there are some gritty moments, and one of the main characters undergoes a trial by fire, which I found a bit hard to read (there is plenty of advance warning if you want to skip this section) - but she emerges mentally and emotionally stronger for it, thanks to the support of her family. I hope her progress and healing will be touched upon in future books.
There are some really touching scenes between Andira and Ekatya, and we also get to see the softer, more personal side, of Lanaril, the Lead Templar of Blacksun. I love how much effort has gone into developing each character and giving them unique traits - anyone with an inquisitive mind will find it particularly easy to resonate with Lhyn, as she cannot stop asking questions! :). The last chapter in particular was a real joy to read, and gives some sort of closure to the events in the book.
There is so much depth and complexity to the plot line - I can imagine reading this several times and discovering something new each time. As with the other books in this series the world-building is superb, and the settings are rich in detail. And if you liked the non-stop action in The Caphenon, this book doesn't disappoint on that front either. You get to see Ekatya in full captain mode, completely in her element - this is the Captain Serrado I have been waiting for since The Caphenon. This is also the older, wiser Captain Serrado - still obeying orders, but also willing to question them.
Don't let the sci-fi tag put you off reading this book, as the science is clearly explained without making it too complex, and only forms a small part of the storyline. If you have a even tiny bit of interest in space travel, this book will set fire to your imagination and leave you wanting more.
The real beauty of this book is that it takes you through a rollercoaster of emotions, and makes you feel what the characters are feeling - take your time savouring the experience, as very few books have the ability to move the reader at such a deep level.
My only small niggle is related to the number of flashbacks - I would have preferred a more continuous storyline for Ekatya and Lhyn, and kept finding myself skipping sections related to current events in order to catch up with Ekatya and Lhyn's backstory. In terms of the timeline, this book covers the two years since the crash of The Caphenon, with most of the backstory set in the Protectorate. It ends at around 10 days after the events of WAF: The Warriors Challenge, so don't expect a lot of changes on Alsea itself.
All in all, this is a great read and I can't wait for the next book in the series. This book can be read as a standalone, but will probably work better if read after The Caphenon, which explains both time travel in the protectorate and the Alsean society in more detail. And if you haven't read any of the books, treat yourself to all 5 in the series - you won't regret it.
The main story takes place planet side on Alsea, where Andira and Salomen are on their bonding break with their families, both related and adopted. As such, both Ekatya and Lhyn are invited along as part of Andira's adopted family. We hear about Ekatya and Lhyn's story through a series of flashbacks interspersed with current events on the bonding break.
Not all of the story is peaches and roses, there are some gritty moments, and one of the main characters undergoes a trial by fire, which I found a bit hard to read (there is plenty of advance warning if you want to skip this section) - but she emerges mentally and emotionally stronger for it, thanks to the support of her family. I hope her progress and healing will be touched upon in future books.
There are some really touching scenes between Andira and Ekatya, and we also get to see the softer, more personal side, of Lanaril, the Lead Templar of Blacksun. I love how much effort has gone into developing each character and giving them unique traits - anyone with an inquisitive mind will find it particularly easy to resonate with Lhyn, as she cannot stop asking questions! :). The last chapter in particular was a real joy to read, and gives some sort of closure to the events in the book.
There is so much depth and complexity to the plot line - I can imagine reading this several times and discovering something new each time. As with the other books in this series the world-building is superb, and the settings are rich in detail. And if you liked the non-stop action in The Caphenon, this book doesn't disappoint on that front either. You get to see Ekatya in full captain mode, completely in her element - this is the Captain Serrado I have been waiting for since The Caphenon. This is also the older, wiser Captain Serrado - still obeying orders, but also willing to question them.
Don't let the sci-fi tag put you off reading this book, as the science is clearly explained without making it too complex, and only forms a small part of the storyline. If you have a even tiny bit of interest in space travel, this book will set fire to your imagination and leave you wanting more.
The real beauty of this book is that it takes you through a rollercoaster of emotions, and makes you feel what the characters are feeling - take your time savouring the experience, as very few books have the ability to move the reader at such a deep level.
My only small niggle is related to the number of flashbacks - I would have preferred a more continuous storyline for Ekatya and Lhyn, and kept finding myself skipping sections related to current events in order to catch up with Ekatya and Lhyn's backstory. In terms of the timeline, this book covers the two years since the crash of The Caphenon, with most of the backstory set in the Protectorate. It ends at around 10 days after the events of WAF: The Warriors Challenge, so don't expect a lot of changes on Alsea itself.
All in all, this is a great read and I can't wait for the next book in the series. This book can be read as a standalone, but will probably work better if read after The Caphenon, which explains both time travel in the protectorate and the Alsean society in more detail. And if you haven't read any of the books, treat yourself to all 5 in the series - you won't regret it.
December 14, 2018
I re-read the others in this series (books 1-3) before reading this, because I knew it focussed more on Ekatya and Lhyn than books 2-3 did. While the Caphenon was my least favourite of those three, it provides invaluable background for this story, and I appreciate those details more now.
Before reading this I thought it was going to be set during the same period as the two Without a Front stories, and I was partially right, as that part is told in flashback, but we spend almost equal time in the present and on Alsea, and those parts were absolutely my favourite.
The past storyline wasn't as interesting as the present, at least at first, but it did provide further depth for Ekatya and Lyhn's relationship. I admit to skimming through the torture scenes, I'm not a fan of that sort of thing, and there was just too much detail for me, but the scenes with Ekatya and Lyhn during those chapters were amongst the best in the book.
This books spends a lot of time exploring the bonds between the two tyree pairs, and the third, less expected (by the characters anyway) pair, in Andira and Ekatya. While I loved all of the revelations these discussions bought forward, I'd still like to know how Lyhn feels about Ekatya and Andira's bond or whether she even knows about it. Salomon hints at the four of them needing to discuss it, but that doesn't happen, I'm hoping it's because it'll come up in the next book.
We're also provided with the side storyline of Velmar and Lanaril, which I could have lived without, I’m not a huge Vallmar fan and wish she wasn’t paired with Lanaril, who is a favourite. We also get to spend some fun times with many of the other supporting characters from the previous books, and a wonderful new addition in the ship's doctor. But in all honesty the meat of this book, for me anyway, was the ties between the four main characters, and watching them interact with each other.
Before reading this I thought it was going to be set during the same period as the two Without a Front stories, and I was partially right, as that part is told in flashback, but we spend almost equal time in the present and on Alsea, and those parts were absolutely my favourite.
The past storyline wasn't as interesting as the present, at least at first, but it did provide further depth for Ekatya and Lyhn's relationship. I admit to skimming through the torture scenes, I'm not a fan of that sort of thing, and there was just too much detail for me, but the scenes with Ekatya and Lyhn during those chapters were amongst the best in the book.
This books spends a lot of time exploring the bonds between the two tyree pairs, and the third, less expected (by the characters anyway) pair, in Andira and Ekatya. While I loved all of the revelations these discussions bought forward, I'd still like to know how Lyhn feels about Ekatya and Andira's bond or whether she even knows about it. Salomon hints at the four of them needing to discuss it, but that doesn't happen, I'm hoping it's because it'll come up in the next book.
We're also provided with the side storyline of Velmar and Lanaril, which I could have lived without, I’m not a huge Vallmar fan and wish she wasn’t paired with Lanaril, who is a favourite. We also get to spend some fun times with many of the other supporting characters from the previous books, and a wonderful new addition in the ship's doctor. But in all honesty the meat of this book, for me anyway, was the ties between the four main characters, and watching them interact with each other.
October 10, 2020
Really tough but great nonetheless (as always ...)
February 4, 2017
Following immediately on from “Without A Front – The Warrior’s Challenge”, “Catalyst” brings all our major players together for the Lancer’s bonding break. Set on a holiday resort island with gorgeous beaches and honeymoon cabins, Tal and Salomen are joined by their closest friends and family, including Captain Ekatya Serrado and Dr Lhyn Rivers. A happy vacation for all involved, celebrating the divine tyree bond, becomes a time for sharing recent experiences and the baring of souls.
In the two years since they defeated the Voloth everyone has changed to some degree, made tough choices, learned hard lessons. Dr Rivers, in particular, has faced tough challenges; her support of the Alseans has made her a target for right wing extremists stirring up fear of the ‘mind control’ that the telepathic Alseans could unleash on the Protectorate. As their personal stories are revealed the friends are pulled even closer by their emotional bonds.
Once again Fletcher DeLancey has produced a stunningly intricate and detailed story to add to the ongoing saga of political and actual battles, emotional growth and complex relationships between strong, intelligent characters. In some ways this is a side story, in terms of Alsea nothing happens to move the larger story arc forward. Instead we are given a lesson in the unpleasant politics of the Protectorate, the lengths individuals will go to further their own agenda, and the price others have to pay. Ultimately it all adds to the world view and will undoubtedly add to our understanding of future events, but despite being set on Alsea this is an off-world backstory.
DeLancy has achieved something not easy to accomplish in making this almost completely about the emotional growth of her major characters, yet combined it with action, adventure and horrible personal experiences. We explore the events of Serrado and Lhyn’s last two years, but all from the viewpoint of explaining the challenges they have faced internally. While Serrado has been off fighting the baddies, she has serious lessons to learn about forgiveness, and for Lhyn the preceding months have literally been both physical and mental torture, from which she must learn to move forward.
As well as our existing cast we meet two new major players who seem destined to play a major role in future tales, the feisty Dr Wells, another wonderful addition to the ‘strong women’ who take almost every major part in the epic to date, and the Machiavellian Director Sholokhov. In Sholokhov DeLancy has give us an almost perfect villainous figure to dislike and despise, and yet he appears to be on the ‘right’ side. Again two more well drawn, intriguing characters whose psyches we explore while following a thrilling plot.
Altogether a brilliant read and one that I found hard to put down. All the books in the series portray the major players with deep, complex and detailed personalities, but this one takes us to another layer of psychological exploration while we are actually reading scenes of action adventure and a dark thriller. DeLancy once again proves herself to be an expert story-teller, a wonderful writer who has a gift for the creation of extraordinarily detailed worlds and sophisticated multidimensional characters. I want nothing more than to sit in a corner and read the whole series again - i cannot wait for the next installment.
In the two years since they defeated the Voloth everyone has changed to some degree, made tough choices, learned hard lessons. Dr Rivers, in particular, has faced tough challenges; her support of the Alseans has made her a target for right wing extremists stirring up fear of the ‘mind control’ that the telepathic Alseans could unleash on the Protectorate. As their personal stories are revealed the friends are pulled even closer by their emotional bonds.
Once again Fletcher DeLancey has produced a stunningly intricate and detailed story to add to the ongoing saga of political and actual battles, emotional growth and complex relationships between strong, intelligent characters. In some ways this is a side story, in terms of Alsea nothing happens to move the larger story arc forward. Instead we are given a lesson in the unpleasant politics of the Protectorate, the lengths individuals will go to further their own agenda, and the price others have to pay. Ultimately it all adds to the world view and will undoubtedly add to our understanding of future events, but despite being set on Alsea this is an off-world backstory.
DeLancy has achieved something not easy to accomplish in making this almost completely about the emotional growth of her major characters, yet combined it with action, adventure and horrible personal experiences. We explore the events of Serrado and Lhyn’s last two years, but all from the viewpoint of explaining the challenges they have faced internally. While Serrado has been off fighting the baddies, she has serious lessons to learn about forgiveness, and for Lhyn the preceding months have literally been both physical and mental torture, from which she must learn to move forward.
As well as our existing cast we meet two new major players who seem destined to play a major role in future tales, the feisty Dr Wells, another wonderful addition to the ‘strong women’ who take almost every major part in the epic to date, and the Machiavellian Director Sholokhov. In Sholokhov DeLancy has give us an almost perfect villainous figure to dislike and despise, and yet he appears to be on the ‘right’ side. Again two more well drawn, intriguing characters whose psyches we explore while following a thrilling plot.
Altogether a brilliant read and one that I found hard to put down. All the books in the series portray the major players with deep, complex and detailed personalities, but this one takes us to another layer of psychological exploration while we are actually reading scenes of action adventure and a dark thriller. DeLancy once again proves herself to be an expert story-teller, a wonderful writer who has a gift for the creation of extraordinarily detailed worlds and sophisticated multidimensional characters. I want nothing more than to sit in a corner and read the whole series again - i cannot wait for the next installment.
April 18, 2021
This book gets better every time I read it. The Chronicles of Alsea is my favorite series for re-reading, with wonderful characters and a complicated, multi-layered plot set in a fascinating world that tickles my imagination.
May 1, 2021
It's been a year since I last read Catalyst, and since then the final three books in the series were released. Knowing what's to come gives such depth and import to the scenes between the main characters, this book shines in the light of the entire story arc.
December 30, 2016
*I received this book from Ylva Publishing in return for a fair review.
There have been four books in the Chronicles of Alsea that have been previously published. This is both the fifth book published and not the fifth book in the series – no, this is book four in the series (the fifth entry appeared out of order earlier this year in July).
This specific book here picks up seemingly moments after the end of the third book – ‘Without a Front – The Warrior’s Challenge’. Of importance to this story – a) do not read this book here out of order or, for that matter, as a stand-alone, I do not think it actually would work as a stand-alone; b) third book ends with a wedding. Fourth, this book here, begins with the happy couple going on their honeymoon.
They do things differently on Alsea (the name of the planet). In the Earthling culture I’m most familiar with, after a wedding, a happy couple wanders off together for a period of time and lose themselves in being together – in say Paris, or Hawaii, but mostly in a bed. The Alseans add a step to that, yes, the happy couple does tend to wander off somewhere ‘nice’, but they add an extra layer – they bring their families with them. For, you see, the bonding is of two families, not just two people.
Some of what you might expect on a honeymoon does in fact still occur. The two wiggling near each other, say, in a nice setting. Some that occurs is somewhat unexpected. Like here, Salomen and Lancer Andira Tal had a bonding ceremony at the end of the previous book (third book in the series, not previous book published, which is the fifth book in the series), then went to have their honeymoon on a nice island. Their honeymoon cabin is actually something of a treehouse – surrounded by other cabins and treehouses. Housing Salomen’s father, and two of her three brothers (third is off in jail), plus Andira’s guards – including such people as Micah and Lead Guard Fianna Vellmar; plus the person who bonded the couple – Lanaril (); plus (yay for pluses) Captain Ekatya Serrado of the Protectorate and Dr. Lhyn Rivers.
I mentioned in my review for the fifth book in the series, Vellmar the Blade, that there was something of a Princess Bride vibe – specifically because the Vellmar story was being told by an older person to youngsters – with them interacting in a similar way that Fred Savage and Peter Falk interacted. Well, there’s a vibe that I picked up on with this book here as well. I’m sure it is a story telling method as old as time – I think it even turns up in Beowulf, that Old English story from something like 975 A.D. I should have watched more camping films. I’m sure they had some I could have seen wherein people gathered together then told stories. But I didn’t. The story telling technique that I am referring to involves people gathering together, telling each other stories – mini-‘stories’ are shown, then back to the people gathered; which also happened in Beowulf when he visited the King in that big hall – and he, or one of his friends, I forget which now, began telling tales of how great Beowulf is – a true hero – so that story would be told (like the time went swimming and murdered a sea serpent, then back to the depressed hall where everyone is drunk and waiting to be eaten by Grendel – people do have to do something while waiting to be eaten).
Right so, the point being that the purpose of having the two families join the happy couple on the honeymoon is so that everyone can ‘join’ as one big happy family. Also to make sure the newly bonded remember to eat. And are entertained. And now we get to my ‘vibe’ tangent – they get entertained by having people tell stories. Well here we just experience two of the story tellers – Ekatya and Lhyn tell about their time back among the Gaians in the Protectorate space.
So – two, well more, but two main story threads – ‘present day’ on Alsea; and flashbacks to Ekatya and Lhyn’s two or so years back in Protectorate space. Both story lines are quite fun reads to follow. And it should be stressed that the ‘present day’ part of the story line is a lot more than just people sitting around telling stories – even if I kind of made it sound that way. ‘Stuff’ does happen.
There needs to be a Warning, though – there is some rather . . . graphic stuff that happens in this book. Sex, but I’m mostly referring to the violence part – bloody, tortuous violence.
The notes I left myself which probably should have just been reworded and made my review:
Rating: 4.88
December 1 2016
There have been four books in the Chronicles of Alsea that have been previously published. This is both the fifth book published and not the fifth book in the series – no, this is book four in the series (the fifth entry appeared out of order earlier this year in July).
This specific book here picks up seemingly moments after the end of the third book – ‘Without a Front – The Warrior’s Challenge’. Of importance to this story – a) do not read this book here out of order or, for that matter, as a stand-alone, I do not think it actually would work as a stand-alone; b) third book ends with a wedding. Fourth, this book here, begins with the happy couple going on their honeymoon.
They do things differently on Alsea (the name of the planet). In the Earthling culture I’m most familiar with, after a wedding, a happy couple wanders off together for a period of time and lose themselves in being together – in say Paris, or Hawaii, but mostly in a bed. The Alseans add a step to that, yes, the happy couple does tend to wander off somewhere ‘nice’, but they add an extra layer – they bring their families with them. For, you see, the bonding is of two families, not just two people.
Some of what you might expect on a honeymoon does in fact still occur. The two wiggling near each other, say, in a nice setting. Some that occurs is somewhat unexpected. Like here, Salomen and Lancer Andira Tal had a bonding ceremony at the end of the previous book (third book in the series, not previous book published, which is the fifth book in the series), then went to have their honeymoon on a nice island. Their honeymoon cabin is actually something of a treehouse – surrounded by other cabins and treehouses. Housing Salomen’s father, and two of her three brothers (third is off in jail), plus Andira’s guards – including such people as Micah and Lead Guard Fianna Vellmar; plus the person who bonded the couple – Lanaril (); plus (yay for pluses) Captain Ekatya Serrado of the Protectorate and Dr. Lhyn Rivers.
I mentioned in my review for the fifth book in the series, Vellmar the Blade, that there was something of a Princess Bride vibe – specifically because the Vellmar story was being told by an older person to youngsters – with them interacting in a similar way that Fred Savage and Peter Falk interacted. Well, there’s a vibe that I picked up on with this book here as well. I’m sure it is a story telling method as old as time – I think it even turns up in Beowulf, that Old English story from something like 975 A.D. I should have watched more camping films. I’m sure they had some I could have seen wherein people gathered together then told stories. But I didn’t. The story telling technique that I am referring to involves people gathering together, telling each other stories – mini-‘stories’ are shown, then back to the people gathered; which also happened in Beowulf when he visited the King in that big hall – and he, or one of his friends, I forget which now, began telling tales of how great Beowulf is – a true hero – so that story would be told (like the time went swimming and murdered a sea serpent, then back to the depressed hall where everyone is drunk and waiting to be eaten by Grendel – people do have to do something while waiting to be eaten).
Right so, the point being that the purpose of having the two families join the happy couple on the honeymoon is so that everyone can ‘join’ as one big happy family. Also to make sure the newly bonded remember to eat. And are entertained. And now we get to my ‘vibe’ tangent – they get entertained by having people tell stories. Well here we just experience two of the story tellers – Ekatya and Lhyn tell about their time back among the Gaians in the Protectorate space.
So – two, well more, but two main story threads – ‘present day’ on Alsea; and flashbacks to Ekatya and Lhyn’s two or so years back in Protectorate space. Both story lines are quite fun reads to follow. And it should be stressed that the ‘present day’ part of the story line is a lot more than just people sitting around telling stories – even if I kind of made it sound that way. ‘Stuff’ does happen.
There needs to be a Warning, though – there is some rather . . . graphic stuff that happens in this book. Sex, but I’m mostly referring to the violence part – bloody, tortuous violence.
The notes I left myself which probably should have just been reworded and made my review:
Rating: 4.88
December 1 2016
December 10, 2016
Now I didn't want to finish it. I knew it was gonna be good, but to go from laughing, smiling and wanting to consume it in one sitting. To being mad, angry, crying and having to put it down, because I was so mad. I finally just sat back and enjoyed the rest of the story.
But see so many story arcs that Fletcher can take out of this for our future reads......Looking forward to more Alsean stories
But see so many story arcs that Fletcher can take out of this for our future reads......Looking forward to more Alsean stories
March 11, 2017
I didn't read the other 3 books and so it was a bit hard to follow at first and get the names and everything right but after a little while I really enjoyed the book and I will read the previous books and then probably reread this one to have it more in a context!
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December 3, 2016
** I was given a copy from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.**
I think my favorite aspect of this series are the characters and all the well craft complexities of the different relationship dynamics. Even if all characters of this series sort of orbited around Andira Tal, each and everyone of them is as interesting and complex as she is. That is no small feat in a novel, to create an ensemble of characters that can each one carry a book of their own. Because as creative and interesting as the world created by Miss DeLancey can be, if the characters responsible for carrying that story forward were not as interesting as the story itself, this series would have suffered much.
And one of my personal favorite relationship dynamic of this series is the one between Andira and Ekatya. I just continue to find it fascinating how their relationship has progressed since the first book. They will always be a lot more than friends, and yet, they will never be anything similar to lovers. DeLancey created a relationship status that, in Facebook terms, should definitively be the epitome of "It's complicated". There is this one amazing chapter in this book where is just the two of them totally in their element having a conversation that suddenly escalates to this impromptu heart-to-heart that is as honest as it layered with meanings. On the foundation of any argument they seem to have you know that their frustration with one another is just because of this deep unspoken mutual fondness they also share. It's very, very touching and well-crafted by the author.
I was also very glad to see Andira, Ekatya and Lhyn back together. Salomen was another great addition to the original trio. And seeing all the other great characters that we've come to known and care about together in the same environment was a real treat.
As for a small criticism I might have, I have to say that the hypodiegetic narration style ("the story within the story" technique) used on the book ends up being a bit anti-climatic for the readers as it takes away the urgency of resolution from the story. Since Ekatya and Lhyn are telling their story in a perfectly safe and happy environment, it's more than obvious that everything turned out somewhat okay. I understand why this format was used here, and I pointed out as a small criticism because as much as this approach might have taken some of the urgency of the story, in the end I'm actually glad this was the path the author choose to go through, as it ended up being a story told in contrast, where the relaxing, happy moment they are current living in is used as the background for them to tell the distressing tale they went through. Plus, it serves as an excellent excuse to have all these great characters sharing the same space once again.
Miss DeLancey, you made me care. Not only for your story. But above all, for your characters. And that is, in my humble opinion, the greatest gift a writer can give to a reader. So please keep on writing, and I will gladly keep on reading.
4.5 stars.
I think my favorite aspect of this series are the characters and all the well craft complexities of the different relationship dynamics. Even if all characters of this series sort of orbited around Andira Tal, each and everyone of them is as interesting and complex as she is. That is no small feat in a novel, to create an ensemble of characters that can each one carry a book of their own. Because as creative and interesting as the world created by Miss DeLancey can be, if the characters responsible for carrying that story forward were not as interesting as the story itself, this series would have suffered much.
And one of my personal favorite relationship dynamic of this series is the one between Andira and Ekatya. I just continue to find it fascinating how their relationship has progressed since the first book. They will always be a lot more than friends, and yet, they will never be anything similar to lovers. DeLancey created a relationship status that, in Facebook terms, should definitively be the epitome of "It's complicated". There is this one amazing chapter in this book where is just the two of them totally in their element having a conversation that suddenly escalates to this impromptu heart-to-heart that is as honest as it layered with meanings. On the foundation of any argument they seem to have you know that their frustration with one another is just because of this deep unspoken mutual fondness they also share. It's very, very touching and well-crafted by the author.
I was also very glad to see Andira, Ekatya and Lhyn back together. Salomen was another great addition to the original trio. And seeing all the other great characters that we've come to known and care about together in the same environment was a real treat.
As for a small criticism I might have, I have to say that the hypodiegetic narration style ("the story within the story" technique) used on the book ends up being a bit anti-climatic for the readers as it takes away the urgency of resolution from the story. Since Ekatya and Lhyn are telling their story in a perfectly safe and happy environment, it's more than obvious that everything turned out somewhat okay. I understand why this format was used here, and I pointed out as a small criticism because as much as this approach might have taken some of the urgency of the story, in the end I'm actually glad this was the path the author choose to go through, as it ended up being a story told in contrast, where the relaxing, happy moment they are current living in is used as the background for them to tell the distressing tale they went through. Plus, it serves as an excellent excuse to have all these great characters sharing the same space once again.
Miss DeLancey, you made me care. Not only for your story. But above all, for your characters. And that is, in my humble opinion, the greatest gift a writer can give to a reader. So please keep on writing, and I will gladly keep on reading.
4.5 stars.
February 3, 2017
The Chronicles of Alsea is a series developed and written by Fletcher DeLancey. Catalyst is the fourth book in this set and took me on a beautiful flight to the next galaxy. It's a science fiction series and the first one I have read in this genre. I'd heard great things about Fletcher DeLancey's work in several groups on Facebook, but I kept ignoring them (shame on me) because I thought I wouldn't like the genre or I wouldn't understand it.
Oh, my goodness, HOW WRONG WAS I! This is, by far, the best I've read in more than a decade. This series is a perfect mix of different genres (science fiction, adventure, thriller, and romance). All the books are very well written and crafted. The characters are well developed, and the world that's created is complex and believable. The story drew me in from the first chapter, and I felt like an observer of the characters actions and feelings throughout the whole book. So emotionally intense and I adore it all.
If you're a fan of science fiction, you've probably read these books at the time of publication. But if (you think) you are not a fan of science fiction, don't let this deter you from reading these books because this is truly and honestly a brilliant series.
Other books in The Chronicles of Alsea Series are (in January 2017):
[book 1] The Caphenon
[book 2] Without a Front: The Producer's Challenge
[book 3] Without a Front: The Warrior's Challenge
[book 4] Catalyst
[book 5] Vellmar the Blade
[book 6] Outcaste (not yet published)
And if you'd like to treat yourself to an unseen interlude with one of the secondary characters, download Projection for free from the Ylva Publishing website. It's a short story that fits in perfectly with the first book, The Caphenon.
Applauding Fletcher DeLancey and hoping for much, much more to come.
Oh, my goodness, HOW WRONG WAS I! This is, by far, the best I've read in more than a decade. This series is a perfect mix of different genres (science fiction, adventure, thriller, and romance). All the books are very well written and crafted. The characters are well developed, and the world that's created is complex and believable. The story drew me in from the first chapter, and I felt like an observer of the characters actions and feelings throughout the whole book. So emotionally intense and I adore it all.
If you're a fan of science fiction, you've probably read these books at the time of publication. But if (you think) you are not a fan of science fiction, don't let this deter you from reading these books because this is truly and honestly a brilliant series.
Other books in The Chronicles of Alsea Series are (in January 2017):
[book 1] The Caphenon
[book 2] Without a Front: The Producer's Challenge
[book 3] Without a Front: The Warrior's Challenge
[book 4] Catalyst
[book 5] Vellmar the Blade
[book 6] Outcaste (not yet published)
And if you'd like to treat yourself to an unseen interlude with one of the secondary characters, download Projection for free from the Ylva Publishing website. It's a short story that fits in perfectly with the first book, The Caphenon.
Applauding Fletcher DeLancey and hoping for much, much more to come.
April 23, 2017
This is apparently the forth book of an on going series and I jumped in at number four. I read it as a stand alone novel and really enjoyed it. I'm guessing had I read the previous three I would have enjoyed it even more. The author has an amazing imagination, one that you find you want to know more. Saying this all could have been explained in detail before this book but the author does give you enough to read this and understand what is going on. I found it inventive, unique and totally engaging. I really enjoyed reading about other worlds and cultures, even the bad sides. I will definately be reading the first three without a doubt as I really want to know more. Before you ask, NO, you do not need to be a sci-fi fanatic to enjoy this book. Enjoy!
April 29, 2019
This is my least favorite of the series so far and I still five-starred it...
I loved the mix between past and present stories, that could have been disturbing but was really well put.
You rant, cry and laugh and do it again.
I am amazed once again by the complexities of the psychological behavior of the main and secondary characters. This is really impressive.
This series it top notch !
I loved the mix between past and present stories, that could have been disturbing but was really well put.
You rant, cry and laugh and do it again.
I am amazed once again by the complexities of the psychological behavior of the main and secondary characters. This is really impressive.
This series it top notch !
April 8, 2025
I loved the initial setting of this book because I never would have expected it to take place on a tropical island, which proved to be perfectly fitting. The reunion we've been waiting for since book one is much more deeply explored in this one, and it gave me some new favorite moments in the entire series. I'm still swooning over both Lancer Tal and Captain Serrado, I absolutely love all of their private moments together, as well as their bondmates. The relationship between the central four characters and more keeps expanding and deepening, and they've all taken advantage of being on the Lancer's bonding break to patch up previous issues and spill some secrets. The main plot of this book is told in flashbacks, where we find out what exactly has been happening with Lhyn and Serrado for the past two years and that part of the story takes a very dark turn, heavier than I expected. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
TW: kidnapping, torture
TW: kidnapping, torture
December 15, 2017
The fourth (and also fifth) installment of the The Chronicles of Alsea definitely lives up to it's predecessors, which is to say, it too is awesome, and I'm sad that I have to wait for the sixth one. This time the plot has two threads; one in the present, which is Tal and Salomens' bonding break; and one in the past, which is the story of what Ekatya and Lhyn have been up to for the past two books. I will say that the focus is definitely on the past, so it can feel like nothing new really happens. DeLancey is a very thorough author, so I expected that she'd tell Ekatya and Lhyns' story in full instead of just brushing over it and continuing on.
August 11, 2021
I liked this book more than "Warrior's Challenge". Still only 3 stars and I had to dig a little why it's not more.
Fletcher's writing is solid as ever. It is clear that she loves Alsea and its inhabitants (and honorary citizens)- and who wouldn't?
That's my first bone to pick. While I love the fact that for once this isn't dystopian scifi, it is all a little too harmonic. The end is a free-for-all orgy of hugging, apologizing and forgiveness-giving, and at some point I gave up trying to keep up with who apologized to whom for what and just accepted that, yes, all is well in Alsea now. I'm sorry, I must come across as a cynic, but it was all laid on too thickly for me. Same goes for not only being soul mates, but handpicked and blessed by the Goddess herself. Oof.
Another thing that didn't really work for me was the flashbacks. The main story about Ekatya and Lhyn isn't bad at all, but... well, it takes the suspense out of a fight scene when it's being told during a cozy gathering with friends and family afterwards, right?
A minor issue for me was that it's first Ekatya's story, and then Lhyn's. A little more overlap would've been nice and would've added more suspense.
And well- Lanaril and Vellmar, not sure what to make of it. I assume there's more to come in later books but it felt as if it didn't belong in this book. Like I side quest with no impact on the main story whatsoever.
What I did like: well, I love the multifaceted relationships. There's love, friendship, family and everything in between, and some relationships defy labels at all (my favorite being Ekatya/Andira by far), which makes for an intriguing mix.
I also loved the fact that Ekatya didn't rescue Lhyn guns blazing. That part was resolved very elegantly IMO. Also, how Ekatya dealt with the main antagonist was pure genius- it was EXACTLY what I was wishing for when I read his description.
So overall I did enjoy the book, and I will read the other ones because it most definitely IS a lovely series of escapism, but I kind of wish it wasn't all quite so happy-endy.
Fletcher's writing is solid as ever. It is clear that she loves Alsea and its inhabitants (and honorary citizens)- and who wouldn't?
That's my first bone to pick. While I love the fact that for once this isn't dystopian scifi, it is all a little too harmonic. The end is a free-for-all orgy of hugging, apologizing and forgiveness-giving, and at some point I gave up trying to keep up with who apologized to whom for what and just accepted that, yes, all is well in Alsea now. I'm sorry, I must come across as a cynic, but it was all laid on too thickly for me. Same goes for not only being soul mates, but handpicked and blessed by the Goddess herself. Oof.
Another thing that didn't really work for me was the flashbacks. The main story about Ekatya and Lhyn isn't bad at all, but... well, it takes the suspense out of a fight scene when it's being told during a cozy gathering with friends and family afterwards, right?
A minor issue for me was that it's first Ekatya's story, and then Lhyn's. A little more overlap would've been nice and would've added more suspense.
And well- Lanaril and Vellmar, not sure what to make of it. I assume there's more to come in later books but it felt as if it didn't belong in this book. Like I side quest with no impact on the main story whatsoever.
What I did like: well, I love the multifaceted relationships. There's love, friendship, family and everything in between, and some relationships defy labels at all (my favorite being Ekatya/Andira by far), which makes for an intriguing mix.
I also loved the fact that Ekatya didn't rescue Lhyn guns blazing. That part was resolved very elegantly IMO. Also, how Ekatya dealt with the main antagonist was pure genius- it was EXACTLY what I was wishing for when I read his description.
So overall I did enjoy the book, and I will read the other ones because it most definitely IS a lovely series of escapism, but I kind of wish it wasn't all quite so happy-endy.
December 4, 2016
For the last couple of weeks, I have been immersed in all things Alsea. I had purchased the earlier volumes in the Chronicles of Alsea and read them back to back before jumping into Catalyst. For some reason, despite the title, I thought this book would be wrapping things up, but it was another thrill ride with well-crafted characters and storyline. As the blurb says, Catalyst recounts what Ekatya and Lhyn have been going through during the Warrior’s Challenge. They are sharing their stories at Andira and Tal’s bonding ceremony. Everyone is sharing their stories with the bonded pair as a way of building their joined family.
Because they are telling the stories now, we know they have survived the events which reduces some of the impact. However, I read eagerly to see how the characters resolved their situations. The book builds somewhat on the tyree plotline in the previous book, exploring Ekatya’s and Lhyn’s bond. Thank goodness they have one. Ekatya’s story comes first and deals with her trials with the amoral director of security for the Protectorate. He’s an ugly man as is the greedy businessman, but Ekatya triumphs. Next, Lhyn tells her story. If it weren’t for her own strength and her bond, the story may have been different. As I read I kept thinking how inhumane people can be to other people, sometimes for pleasure and sometimes for profit. There are some ugly events described in this book. Because of our heroes’ strengths and love for one another, we can believe in the power of love and human kindness over adversity despite the inhumanity described in the book.
The adventure is terrific but so are the characters. The women and other Alseans are complex and nuanced. The relationships are interwoven and complicated; they ring true. I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next one. The sooner the better, please. I was given a free arc from Ylva of Catalyst for my honest review.
Because they are telling the stories now, we know they have survived the events which reduces some of the impact. However, I read eagerly to see how the characters resolved their situations. The book builds somewhat on the tyree plotline in the previous book, exploring Ekatya’s and Lhyn’s bond. Thank goodness they have one. Ekatya’s story comes first and deals with her trials with the amoral director of security for the Protectorate. He’s an ugly man as is the greedy businessman, but Ekatya triumphs. Next, Lhyn tells her story. If it weren’t for her own strength and her bond, the story may have been different. As I read I kept thinking how inhumane people can be to other people, sometimes for pleasure and sometimes for profit. There are some ugly events described in this book. Because of our heroes’ strengths and love for one another, we can believe in the power of love and human kindness over adversity despite the inhumanity described in the book.
The adventure is terrific but so are the characters. The women and other Alseans are complex and nuanced. The relationships are interwoven and complicated; they ring true. I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next one. The sooner the better, please. I was given a free arc from Ylva of Catalyst for my honest review.
December 21, 2016
Catalyst (Book 4 Chronicles of Alsea) by Fletcher DeLancy
Catalyst is 4th in the story chronology while being the 5th book released. (For those of us with even mild OCD that takes some acceptance). Anyway, this story picks up immediately after the 3rd (in chronology) Without A Front: The Warrior's Challenge. We are invited along on Lancer Tal and Solomen's Honeymoon along with the entire family. Yep, not how we do things... The group spends time getting to know each other by relating stories and interacting in a closed setting. The honeymoon locale is a series of tree-houses on an island. The whole setting sounds absolutely wonderful. One of the many things I appreciate about Fletcher DeLancey's story-telling is her ability to create a Real World populated with Real People with whom we can empathize or who we can hate unabashedly as the characters unfold.
If you were wondering about Lanaril and Vellmar's story from Vellmar the Blade (4th released and 5th in the series) it's in here. We get the beginning of their story. More later we hope? Catalyst also fills in some of the story we "missed" when Ekatya and Lynn go back to the Protectorate after Caphenon. That story is filled with subterfuge and out-right horror. I'll let you enjoy the gory details.
So, to end the blurb....if you like Science Fiction read it! If you don't like Science Fiction because the language is just too different...no worries here; read it! This story flows and engages you quickly continuously making you want more. Why? Because these characters BREATHE, LAUGH, LOVE and CRY just like we all do. Enjoy!
List in order of story chronology:
Caphenon
Without A Front: Producer's Challenge
Without A Front: Warrior's Challenge
Catalyst
Vellmar the Blade
Catalyst is 4th in the story chronology while being the 5th book released. (For those of us with even mild OCD that takes some acceptance). Anyway, this story picks up immediately after the 3rd (in chronology) Without A Front: The Warrior's Challenge. We are invited along on Lancer Tal and Solomen's Honeymoon along with the entire family. Yep, not how we do things... The group spends time getting to know each other by relating stories and interacting in a closed setting. The honeymoon locale is a series of tree-houses on an island. The whole setting sounds absolutely wonderful. One of the many things I appreciate about Fletcher DeLancey's story-telling is her ability to create a Real World populated with Real People with whom we can empathize or who we can hate unabashedly as the characters unfold.
If you were wondering about Lanaril and Vellmar's story from Vellmar the Blade (4th released and 5th in the series) it's in here. We get the beginning of their story. More later we hope? Catalyst also fills in some of the story we "missed" when Ekatya and Lynn go back to the Protectorate after Caphenon. That story is filled with subterfuge and out-right horror. I'll let you enjoy the gory details.
So, to end the blurb....if you like Science Fiction read it! If you don't like Science Fiction because the language is just too different...no worries here; read it! This story flows and engages you quickly continuously making you want more. Why? Because these characters BREATHE, LAUGH, LOVE and CRY just like we all do. Enjoy!
List in order of story chronology:
Caphenon
Without A Front: Producer's Challenge
Without A Front: Warrior's Challenge
Catalyst
Vellmar the Blade
December 20, 2016
*ARC from Ylva for review*
After the last Alsea book I thought, the story was told. But boy, was I wrong. Fletcher DeLancey picked up, what was left and wove it into a great new book.
The three main threads are: the current bonding break of Andira and Salomen, the recount of Ekatya's off world action and the recount of Lhyn's off world action.
All the Protectorate action shows us the big bad world out there, that has so much in common with ours: politics, profits and power games; shades of grey, no black and white. Alsea is the contrast, at least in comparison: love, understanding, healing. (As the previous books proved, Alsea is not really that shallow.)
I find it fascinating that authors are able to put their beloved (I hope so) characters through real torture; to be able to get into the mindset of a sociopath, psychopath or sadist. I definitely wouldn't be able to do that.
The only "spoilsport" is that the story gets recounted, so we know the outcome beforehand. It makes it - in my eyes - less intense, but then killing a main character is more in the line of GoT than the Chronicles of Alsea.
To get into the story from the beginning I recommend to reread the previous books, otherwise the many characters and foreign nouns need some time to reconnect.
There are now a lot of open questions and the need for the next book is almost overwhelming.
I read Fletcher DeLanceys Voyager FanFiction twice and hope that the Alsea books will become that epic too.
Be warned - you may get addicted ;-)
After the last Alsea book I thought, the story was told. But boy, was I wrong. Fletcher DeLancey picked up, what was left and wove it into a great new book.
The three main threads are: the current bonding break of Andira and Salomen, the recount of Ekatya's off world action and the recount of Lhyn's off world action.
All the Protectorate action shows us the big bad world out there, that has so much in common with ours: politics, profits and power games; shades of grey, no black and white. Alsea is the contrast, at least in comparison: love, understanding, healing. (As the previous books proved, Alsea is not really that shallow.)
I find it fascinating that authors are able to put their beloved (I hope so) characters through real torture; to be able to get into the mindset of a sociopath, psychopath or sadist. I definitely wouldn't be able to do that.
The only "spoilsport" is that the story gets recounted, so we know the outcome beforehand. It makes it - in my eyes - less intense, but then killing a main character is more in the line of GoT than the Chronicles of Alsea.
To get into the story from the beginning I recommend to reread the previous books, otherwise the many characters and foreign nouns need some time to reconnect.
There are now a lot of open questions and the need for the next book is almost overwhelming.
I read Fletcher DeLanceys Voyager FanFiction twice and hope that the Alsea books will become that epic too.
Be warned - you may get addicted ;-)
February 4, 2017
Once again, I cannot gush enough about Ms. DeLancey's gift as an author. I'll try to hold myself to a mature level.
This book is a little different than its three forerunners have been, it is a delightful mix of viewpoints, but not in the way you might think. It flows so very well! When we are in the present day, (on a bond-break of all things! What is that? Think of a honeymoon that you invite your closest friends and family along!) we see things throughLead Templar Lanaril's viewpoint. But the book is more about catching up on a year and a half or so with Captain Serrado and Lhyn Rivers. (Yay!)
There are parts that had me wincing with imagined pain, cheering, and begrudgingly admitting I might have a little respect for a sort of slimy character. There is, as always, intense love, and more than a few lessons woven into these wonderful words.
The most important one? Never assume the worst in someone.
I binge-read this book in a day. Didn't get anything else done, but that's what snowy, windy days are for.
As always, five stars to Fletcher DeLancey and Ylva Publishing for an entertaining, flawless, moving, engaging story that I did not want to leave!
This book is a little different than its three forerunners have been, it is a delightful mix of viewpoints, but not in the way you might think. It flows so very well! When we are in the present day, (on a bond-break of all things! What is that? Think of a honeymoon that you invite your closest friends and family along!) we see things throughLead Templar Lanaril's viewpoint. But the book is more about catching up on a year and a half or so with Captain Serrado and Lhyn Rivers. (Yay!)
There are parts that had me wincing with imagined pain, cheering, and begrudgingly admitting I might have a little respect for a sort of slimy character. There is, as always, intense love, and more than a few lessons woven into these wonderful words.
The most important one? Never assume the worst in someone.
I binge-read this book in a day. Didn't get anything else done, but that's what snowy, windy days are for.
As always, five stars to Fletcher DeLancey and Ylva Publishing for an entertaining, flawless, moving, engaging story that I did not want to leave!
December 29, 2016
4.5 stars because I liked Without A Front (Producer's Challenge & Warrior's Challenge) so much more and I rated those books 5 stars.
The book was very well written - world-building was solid, story was exciting enough and I enjoyed reading about what happened post-bonding. However, I really wanted to read more about Alsea, Andira Tal and Salomen Opah and not so much about Ekatya and Lhyn.
Alsea and its main characters were what hooked me into this series and I can't wait for the next one which I hope will give us more insight into Salomen's mind/thoughts/feelings/emotions. Yes, I know that I gleaned a lot about her just reading everyone else's perspectives but it's not enough.
I love love love this series. I am hoping Fletcher Delancey will come up with her next one quickly. Otherwise, I keep re-reading Without A Front (going on 5th time now).
The book was very well written - world-building was solid, story was exciting enough and I enjoyed reading about what happened post-bonding. However, I really wanted to read more about Alsea, Andira Tal and Salomen Opah and not so much about Ekatya and Lhyn.
Alsea and its main characters were what hooked me into this series and I can't wait for the next one which I hope will give us more insight into Salomen's mind/thoughts/feelings/emotions. Yes, I know that I gleaned a lot about her just reading everyone else's perspectives but it's not enough.
I love love love this series. I am hoping Fletcher Delancey will come up with her next one quickly. Otherwise, I keep re-reading Without A Front (going on 5th time now).
February 23, 2022
A roller coaster ride
SAPPHIC BOOK BINGO: established couple, unusual job, non-human characters, not a romance, favorite trope, butch character, out of your comfort zone, meet-cute; UNICORN: 400+ pages, more than 2 POVs (Possibly more categories.)
So much happened in this book! Quite a bit of it was recall, which was a different approach, but that also added another element of complexity to the story. We find out what happened to the Gaians during their time away from, and their return to Alsea. A fantastic read!
SAPPHIC BOOK BINGO: established couple, unusual job, non-human characters, not a romance, favorite trope, butch character, out of your comfort zone, meet-cute; UNICORN: 400+ pages, more than 2 POVs (Possibly more categories.)
So much happened in this book! Quite a bit of it was recall, which was a different approach, but that also added another element of complexity to the story. We find out what happened to the Gaians during their time away from, and their return to Alsea. A fantastic read!
January 15, 2017
Loved it!
January 20, 2017
Lots of action and less romance, just like The Caphenon. Loved it.
February 17, 2025
The series continues to be very enjoyable. I wasn’t a fan of the main plot being told mostly through flashbacks at first but it did eventually click for me later on. This one is pretty action-heavy with some very gripping moments. The focus is still very much skewed towards Ekatya and Andira, though. I wish Lhyn got more moments from her POV in which she got to have fun as well. She did have several awesome moments in this volume. I think Salomen had it the worst in terms of “screen time” which might be fair since the focus is supposed to be on Ekatya and Lhyn this time but I feel like we got more of Vellmar and Lanaril than Salomen. The good thing is I really like every character in the MCs’ circle so it’s not really a hardship to read about them.
I have to take back most of the complaints I had about world-building in the last volume since we get much more of it here and having the Gaian characters serve as a natural vehicle for some more in-depth exploration helped a lot.
The only thing I’m really missing in this series is a smarter, more nuanced villain. Everyone’s been either to greedy, too evil or too power-hungry so far.
I’m really curious about all of the bonds being made and I certainly won’t mind if things take a more mystical turn. Yes, it does read a lot like a “soul-mate AU” but it’s one of the tropes I guiltily enjoy.
I think the SFF lovers in our community deserve to have more wlw stories in which the plot doesn’t feel like a mere background for the romance to develop but actually offer a compelling world with a set of likeable and intriguing characters.
I have to take back most of the complaints I had about world-building in the last volume since we get much more of it here and having the Gaian characters serve as a natural vehicle for some more in-depth exploration helped a lot.
The only thing I’m really missing in this series is a smarter, more nuanced villain. Everyone’s been either to greedy, too evil or too power-hungry so far.
I’m really curious about all of the bonds being made and I certainly won’t mind if things take a more mystical turn. Yes, it does read a lot like a “soul-mate AU” but it’s one of the tropes I guiltily enjoy.
I think the SFF lovers in our community deserve to have more wlw stories in which the plot doesn’t feel like a mere background for the romance to develop but actually offer a compelling world with a set of likeable and intriguing characters.
March 30, 2019
Damn, this series keeps surprising me with each new book. When I think it could be better, it's getting 10 times more awesome than the previous one.
This is really a study in human relationships. Even though it is spun into a science fiction storyline with this incredible Alsean species of empaths, it is really about the deep connections we have between ourselves and the potential when we are truly open in communicating how we feel.
It is also about the reality of life and the moral and ethical debates we all have. It makes one understand that even the littlest of choice one makes has an impact, so we must learn to choose well in accordance with our values and be true to ourselves. Always!
I don't want to spoil anything and besides it hard for me to summarise what this book is about, but how it makes me feel and think once I read it is what I really recommend it for.
This is really a study in human relationships. Even though it is spun into a science fiction storyline with this incredible Alsean species of empaths, it is really about the deep connections we have between ourselves and the potential when we are truly open in communicating how we feel.
It is also about the reality of life and the moral and ethical debates we all have. It makes one understand that even the littlest of choice one makes has an impact, so we must learn to choose well in accordance with our values and be true to ourselves. Always!
I don't want to spoil anything and besides it hard for me to summarise what this book is about, but how it makes me feel and think once I read it is what I really recommend it for.
April 14, 2021
Another excellent addition to the series!! I really loved getting to see Lynn and Ekatya again and hearing what they'd gone through during the past two books. It's told in essentially two timelines, with the present tense occurring right after the end of the previous book during Andira & Solomen's honeymoon, and then flashing back as Lynn & Ekatya tell the others what happened. I'm not really a big fan of this as a narrative device, but I generally thought it was used very effectively here. I continue to really enjoy the characters, though I feel like there are still quite a few open questions, particularly in regards to the specifics of what's going on with Ekatya & Andira.
September 5, 2018
4.5 Stars
The way Fletcher DeLancey writes is completely enthralling. The world and characters which are crafted are sublime.
That said, this felt like a bit of an inbetween book for me. Not quite a full story, more a backdrop for what has been and what will come.
I never felt completely at one with the book and there's a good part of me who wants to see Tal and Ekatya progress their relationship ... yikes.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
The way Fletcher DeLancey writes is completely enthralling. The world and characters which are crafted are sublime.
That said, this felt like a bit of an inbetween book for me. Not quite a full story, more a backdrop for what has been and what will come.
I never felt completely at one with the book and there's a good part of me who wants to see Tal and Ekatya progress their relationship ... yikes.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
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