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The Lost Colony #1
The Last Warrior
As a decorated soldier, the young General Tao knows only one kind of honor - to his people. But when his own king betrays him, he discovers that his sacrifices, his successes, may not have been for the good of the country at all.
Fate - and his enemies - throw him together with Elsabeth, a red-haired beauty who has served as the royal tutor.
Her loyalties, though, remain with her father's people, the rebellious Kurel, who worship the old ways, even harboring the forbidden arks that brought the Kurel to this planet ages ago. When a threat greater than their peoples' war looms, intent on destroying the world they both know, the fierce warrior and the sensitive scholar must unite. Together, they must fight for their planet, for their world and for their love.
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 19, 2011
91 people are currently reading
317 people want to read
About the author
Susan Grant
66 books452 followersSusan’s childhood dreams of becoming a space explorer fizzled when she found out calculus was involved. Luckily, she didn’t need math skills to fly jets--or to create sky-high stories in her head, first for herself, then for friends, and now for readers everywhere.
A New York Times/USA Today bestselling author and a military veteran, Susan won the prestigious RITA® Award for her book Contact, a sci-fi aviation-thriller romance.
A New York Times/USA Today bestselling author and a military veteran, Susan won the prestigious RITA® Award for her book Contact, a sci-fi aviation-thriller romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
May 11, 2011
General Tao is a champion of his people, returning home from defeating the Gorr, a beastlike species of fighters. But while his people welcome him with open arms, his brother-in-law, King Xim, does not. The king thinks Tao wants to usurp the crown and in his paranoia, throws Tao in the dungeon to face treason charges. Tao's good friend Markam is a palace guard and part of a rebel movement that sees Xim as unfit for the throne. He helps devise an escape for Tao and sets him up to hide in the neighboring ghettos of the Kurel people.
Elsabeth is a Kurel who is also dedicated to taking down Xim. But her reasons are personal; he was behind the raid that killed her parents. Now, she's hiding Tao because she believes he is humanity's best hope to be the new king.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a romance, but so much more. The world building was fascinating. The author has set up a futuristic otherworld where the human factions are as clearly defined as the mongrel Gorr. It's captivating to watch Tao and Elsabeth overcome their misconceptions about each other and fall in love. But the action and the intrigue was every bit as interesting. There were also great secondary characters, like Markam and Queen Aza.
There is a little bit of sex, but the book is more about the emotional connection of the characters, and even though I generally like smut, I didn't feel cheated. I really enjoyed this one, in part because it was unique and refreshing, but also because it was just plain good. 4 1/2 stars.
P.S. I must acknowledge that every time I see General Tao, I think of Chinese chicken. It's like the pink elephant in the room.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Elsabeth is a Kurel who is also dedicated to taking down Xim. But her reasons are personal; he was behind the raid that killed her parents. Now, she's hiding Tao because she believes he is humanity's best hope to be the new king.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a romance, but so much more. The world building was fascinating. The author has set up a futuristic otherworld where the human factions are as clearly defined as the mongrel Gorr. It's captivating to watch Tao and Elsabeth overcome their misconceptions about each other and fall in love. But the action and the intrigue was every bit as interesting. There were also great secondary characters, like Markam and Queen Aza.
There is a little bit of sex, but the book is more about the emotional connection of the characters, and even though I generally like smut, I didn't feel cheated. I really enjoyed this one, in part because it was unique and refreshing, but also because it was just plain good. 4 1/2 stars.
P.S. I must acknowledge that every time I see General Tao, I think of Chinese chicken. It's like the pink elephant in the room.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
August 25, 2021
Too pompous, too slow...
Sorry I didn't like the writing style at all!
I thought it will be a SF, but it was more like a Roman Empire historical! I don't know how to shelve it...
Sorry I didn't like the writing style at all!
I thought it will be a SF, but it was more like a Roman Empire historical! I don't know how to shelve it...
April 19, 2020
Fantastic SFR. Amazing world-building. Loved the build-up from enemies to lovers. Can't wait to read book 2!
February 10, 2012
No depth. Nothing made me smile. I wanted it to be over.
STORY BRIEF:
Generations ago humans traveled to another planet. The aircraft was destroyed. They initialy split into three groups. The Tassagon rule the city and have strong warriors. The Kurel read books, value science, and use medicine including antibiotics and IV lines. The Tassagon believe the Kurel are sorcerers using magic. They fear the magic, and they force the Kurel to live in a ghetto area. Riders live on the surrounding planes. They ride horses and hunt. A fourth group is the Gorr who appear to be half wolf, half human. They attack and kill humans whenever they can. A fifth group is part Gorr, part human. They ride the seas as pirates.
Tao is the leader of the Tassagon army. He and his army have been away fighting Gorr for years. They use bows, arrows, spears, and ride horses. The story begins when they return to the city. The people love Tao and cheer him. The current king (Xim) fears Tao could take over as king. Xim arrests Tao and plans to execute him.
Elsabeth is Kurel. Three years ago Xim’s soldiers killed her parents and other Kurel. She has vowed revenge and wants to kill Xim. She helps Tao escape.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
I feel like the author was told to write this rather than being inspired to write this. The characters are bland. The dialogue is ordinary. The events are predictable. Nothing is done in a special way. I plodded through it so I could evaluate it. I didn’t enjoy it. The first sex scene was long and boring. The ending for the bad guys felt convenient and contrived - almost like lets kill off the bad guys in a way that does not have the good guys being at fault.
This is labeled paranormal romance. That’s ok. Just know that there is nothing paranormal going on with the main characters or main story. The paranormal element is the existence of the Gorr creatures. If you look into their eyes, you become hypnotized making it easier for them to kill you.
DATA:
Story length: 370 pages. Swearing language: mild. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: 3. Total number of sex scene pages: 11. Setting: a future time on a colonized planet. Copyright: 2011. Genre: paranormal sci-fi romance.
OTHER BOOKS:
I read one other book by Susan Grant. I gave 3 stars to “How to Lose an Extraterrestrial in 10 Days” copyright 2007.
STORY BRIEF:
Generations ago humans traveled to another planet. The aircraft was destroyed. They initialy split into three groups. The Tassagon rule the city and have strong warriors. The Kurel read books, value science, and use medicine including antibiotics and IV lines. The Tassagon believe the Kurel are sorcerers using magic. They fear the magic, and they force the Kurel to live in a ghetto area. Riders live on the surrounding planes. They ride horses and hunt. A fourth group is the Gorr who appear to be half wolf, half human. They attack and kill humans whenever they can. A fifth group is part Gorr, part human. They ride the seas as pirates.
Tao is the leader of the Tassagon army. He and his army have been away fighting Gorr for years. They use bows, arrows, spears, and ride horses. The story begins when they return to the city. The people love Tao and cheer him. The current king (Xim) fears Tao could take over as king. Xim arrests Tao and plans to execute him.
Elsabeth is Kurel. Three years ago Xim’s soldiers killed her parents and other Kurel. She has vowed revenge and wants to kill Xim. She helps Tao escape.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
I feel like the author was told to write this rather than being inspired to write this. The characters are bland. The dialogue is ordinary. The events are predictable. Nothing is done in a special way. I plodded through it so I could evaluate it. I didn’t enjoy it. The first sex scene was long and boring. The ending for the bad guys felt convenient and contrived - almost like lets kill off the bad guys in a way that does not have the good guys being at fault.
This is labeled paranormal romance. That’s ok. Just know that there is nothing paranormal going on with the main characters or main story. The paranormal element is the existence of the Gorr creatures. If you look into their eyes, you become hypnotized making it easier for them to kill you.
DATA:
Story length: 370 pages. Swearing language: mild. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: 3. Total number of sex scene pages: 11. Setting: a future time on a colonized planet. Copyright: 2011. Genre: paranormal sci-fi romance.
OTHER BOOKS:
I read one other book by Susan Grant. I gave 3 stars to “How to Lose an Extraterrestrial in 10 Days” copyright 2007.
April 9, 2020
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
That beautiful cover is what caught my eye about this one and screamed I had to read it. I was lucky enough to win a copy form the author and started reading it as soon as I could. It took me a while to adjust my expectations as I thought this would be a civilization and rebellion in space, but the whole story actually takes place on one planet. A planet that people from earth colonized a long time ago and now they are stuck there with no means off the planet and with a deadly enemy stuck on the same planet.
Once I had shifted my expectations and realized this almost read more like a fantasy romance book on another planet than science fiction romance I quickly got grabbed by the premise. Elsabeth is a young women whose parents got killed as a result of the kings actions and she wants revenge, she then joins the rebellion. Tal is a general who just won a big victory against the Gorr, the beastlike enemies that they share the planet with. Tal just wants to retire, but when the king betrays him and Elsabeth hides him in her home to avoid detection he slowly grows to understand their cause.
This book had a strong start and ending, but to me the part in the middle felt kinda boring. Most of the action and big plot points where toward the start and end and I struggled getting through the middle part. The middle mostly had the two main characters sitting around and slowly getting to know each other. While I liked seeing them grow closer, I would've liked to see that happen under different circumstances, maybe while they were plotting something or doing something. Then from the scene outside the city onward the pace picked up again and I quickly got through the last part. I would've liked to see a bit more build up toward some of the changes and the conclusions at the end as a few things felt a bit sudden now, but it still was a very satisfactory ending.
While I liked the romance eventually, it didn't grip me as much as I would've liked. Enemies to lovers usually only works for me when the two are literal enemies, I thought that would be the case here, but not quite. Tal while not part of the rebellion is bitter enough about the king's betrayal to want to help them, it does take him time to grow to trust the Kurel people and forget his notions of magic and realize they used science. I didn't like how both Tal and Elsabeth where so judgemental at first, they both thought their way was the best and some of those thoughts they hold onto to the end or close till there. It took a while before them to realize not everything they believed was true. I also didn't fully feel their romance for some reason for a long time. I didn't like Tal as much at first. Elsabeth was more likable from the start, but that could also be partly due to her love for books and science, which I can relate to more than Tal's war focus. I did warm up to Tal more as the book progressed and I did think his actions made. By the end it was clear how much they cared for one another and I liked them together.
I liked how I was able to understand both their motivations. Especially Elsabeth had clear motivations due to her parents being murdered by the king. Tal seemed a bit less directionless at first as he didn't choose this path, but once he was committed to helping the Kurel that changed. There were some interesting side characters, but they mostly stay to the side.
The world building is quite interesting, although it takes a long time to learn more of the world. And it is sprinkled throughout the story, which was nicely done. But at the same time I would've liked a bit more toward the start and middle. Especially some of the reveals later on had me curious about the world. And while this book only reveals parts of the history and current world, it is enough to make me curious. I guess I just would've liked a bit more overal. The city setting mostly feels like a bit medieval like town to me, with the exception of the Kurel people most people don't know science. I would've liked to get a bit more about their technology level and how these people lived as now it felt like I had to fill in a lot of blanks in my head. I also thought it was a bit weird how only the Kurel know of science to such a degree that the other people think of it as magic. I am curious to see how these different people come together eventually.
To summarize: I liked the set-up and start of the book, sadly the middle dragged quite a bit for me and I struggled to get through it. And then the part toward the end was great again with action and things changing. The middle just didn't feel as eventful with them sitting around, not doing as much and getting to know each other a bit. The plot was interesting and I liked seeing how it played out. I had a bit of difficulties feeling their romance and didn't like Tal at first. I did feel their romance more later on and Tal got a bit more likable when he saw the error of some of this beliefs. Both Tal and Elsabeth could be a bit judgemental and stuck in their ways at first, but it was interesting to see them learn more about the other and have them reevaluate some of their beliefs. The world building was slowly sprinkled throughout the book. I would've liked to learn more about the world and these people, but the parts we did learn were interesting.
That beautiful cover is what caught my eye about this one and screamed I had to read it. I was lucky enough to win a copy form the author and started reading it as soon as I could. It took me a while to adjust my expectations as I thought this would be a civilization and rebellion in space, but the whole story actually takes place on one planet. A planet that people from earth colonized a long time ago and now they are stuck there with no means off the planet and with a deadly enemy stuck on the same planet.
Once I had shifted my expectations and realized this almost read more like a fantasy romance book on another planet than science fiction romance I quickly got grabbed by the premise. Elsabeth is a young women whose parents got killed as a result of the kings actions and she wants revenge, she then joins the rebellion. Tal is a general who just won a big victory against the Gorr, the beastlike enemies that they share the planet with. Tal just wants to retire, but when the king betrays him and Elsabeth hides him in her home to avoid detection he slowly grows to understand their cause.
This book had a strong start and ending, but to me the part in the middle felt kinda boring. Most of the action and big plot points where toward the start and end and I struggled getting through the middle part. The middle mostly had the two main characters sitting around and slowly getting to know each other. While I liked seeing them grow closer, I would've liked to see that happen under different circumstances, maybe while they were plotting something or doing something. Then from the scene outside the city onward the pace picked up again and I quickly got through the last part. I would've liked to see a bit more build up toward some of the changes and the conclusions at the end as a few things felt a bit sudden now, but it still was a very satisfactory ending.
While I liked the romance eventually, it didn't grip me as much as I would've liked. Enemies to lovers usually only works for me when the two are literal enemies, I thought that would be the case here, but not quite. Tal while not part of the rebellion is bitter enough about the king's betrayal to want to help them, it does take him time to grow to trust the Kurel people and forget his notions of magic and realize they used science. I didn't like how both Tal and Elsabeth where so judgemental at first, they both thought their way was the best and some of those thoughts they hold onto to the end or close till there. It took a while before them to realize not everything they believed was true. I also didn't fully feel their romance for some reason for a long time. I didn't like Tal as much at first. Elsabeth was more likable from the start, but that could also be partly due to her love for books and science, which I can relate to more than Tal's war focus. I did warm up to Tal more as the book progressed and I did think his actions made. By the end it was clear how much they cared for one another and I liked them together.
I liked how I was able to understand both their motivations. Especially Elsabeth had clear motivations due to her parents being murdered by the king. Tal seemed a bit less directionless at first as he didn't choose this path, but once he was committed to helping the Kurel that changed. There were some interesting side characters, but they mostly stay to the side.
The world building is quite interesting, although it takes a long time to learn more of the world. And it is sprinkled throughout the story, which was nicely done. But at the same time I would've liked a bit more toward the start and middle. Especially some of the reveals later on had me curious about the world. And while this book only reveals parts of the history and current world, it is enough to make me curious. I guess I just would've liked a bit more overal. The city setting mostly feels like a bit medieval like town to me, with the exception of the Kurel people most people don't know science. I would've liked to get a bit more about their technology level and how these people lived as now it felt like I had to fill in a lot of blanks in my head. I also thought it was a bit weird how only the Kurel know of science to such a degree that the other people think of it as magic. I am curious to see how these different people come together eventually.
To summarize: I liked the set-up and start of the book, sadly the middle dragged quite a bit for me and I struggled to get through it. And then the part toward the end was great again with action and things changing. The middle just didn't feel as eventful with them sitting around, not doing as much and getting to know each other a bit. The plot was interesting and I liked seeing how it played out. I had a bit of difficulties feeling their romance and didn't like Tal at first. I did feel their romance more later on and Tal got a bit more likable when he saw the error of some of this beliefs. Both Tal and Elsabeth could be a bit judgemental and stuck in their ways at first, but it was interesting to see them learn more about the other and have them reevaluate some of their beliefs. The world building was slowly sprinkled throughout the book. I would've liked to learn more about the world and these people, but the parts we did learn were interesting.
July 22, 2011
Since I’ve loved so many of Ms. Grants books in the past, I decided to dive into the Susan Grant book pool even though the last couple weren't quite as enjoyable for me.
And I'm SO glad I did as this is the kind of Susan Grant book I adore and adore this one I did!
It has everything going for it.
A very intriguing world that is very well built - check
A great cast of secondary characters that makes me want to read more about them – check
An evil villain that you want to do away with yourself - check
A heroine that I really like and admire – check
A hero to die for – check
The setting for this Futuristic Sci/Fi romance is the planet (look it up). I gather the planet was colonized by the people from Earth hundreds of years ago and somehow all communication was cut off so they slowly drifted into various segments of society. There are the superstitious warrior class, known as the Tassagonians, who are exemplified by our hero General Tao. Then there are the scientific class known as the Kurel. There isn’t much mingling of these two classes as the Warrior class are very wary of the Kurel and consider all their advanced knowledge is evil magic.
The story starts out with the return of General Tao, a hero to his people for the glorious defeat of the Gorr, an animalistic group whose sole purpose is the elimination of the human inhabitants. Our heroine, Elsabeth is less than impressed though as she has a deep dislike of the Tassagoian people and in particular a hatred for their king ever since he was responsible for the senseless death of her parents. She is part of a rebellion against King Xim along with the chief of the palace guards and Tao’s best friend.
When Tao makes his triumphant return, King Xim is threatened by Tao’s popularity with the people and has him falsely arrested. Markham, his friend and chief of palace guards rescues him and hides him with Elsabeth and the ghetto town of the Kurels
That’s the basics of the story but that’s just bare bones. What I would like to say is what great characters both Elsabeth and Tao are. I wasn’t sure I would like either one at first but I LOVED them. Elsabeth has reason to be bitter but rather than wallow in it, she works to make things different and better. She could have let her hatred for the Tassagoian people take over, but she is very well able to separate her feeling for the king from the rest of the people. In fact she calls the king’s wife and sister to Tao a friend and is very fond of her. Elsbeth is smart, brave, does what she can to help but not in a stupid way and Wendy would really like her. Hint, hint. She has preconceived notions about what the Tassagoians are all about, but is willing to readjust her thinking when she sees that the role they play is valuable.
And Tao. Oh, yum, yum, yum!! What an incredible Ms. Grant has written in him. He is a hero to his people and despite this he remains remarkably humble about it all. He just wants to find a wife, using careful, well thought out methods and retire to his family vineyard. He has fought against the Gorr for many years despite still being a young man. When he is put into hiding in the district of the Korel, he is at first quite reluctant what with them practicing magic and all. But he slowly realizes what value they can be. And at first rather disgusted with their passive ways, he is impressed when they rise to the occasion when threatened. And the chemistry between Tao and Elsabeth is absolutely delicious. I just love how they slowly begin to love each other as they get to know each other and put aside their prejudices. Tao admires Elsbeth and treats her with a great deal of respect, even though he is totally hot for her.
This is a riveting story with very real and believable characters. There are a few places where I chuckled over Tao and his ‘duck out of water’ stay with the Korel. I’ve tried tightening up on my 5 out of 5 grades as at times going back I barely remember a book I gave a five too, but not so in this case. This is one I will remember and most certainly read again.
And I'm SO glad I did as this is the kind of Susan Grant book I adore and adore this one I did!
It has everything going for it.
A very intriguing world that is very well built - check
A great cast of secondary characters that makes me want to read more about them – check
An evil villain that you want to do away with yourself - check
A heroine that I really like and admire – check
A hero to die for – check
The setting for this Futuristic Sci/Fi romance is the planet (look it up). I gather the planet was colonized by the people from Earth hundreds of years ago and somehow all communication was cut off so they slowly drifted into various segments of society. There are the superstitious warrior class, known as the Tassagonians, who are exemplified by our hero General Tao. Then there are the scientific class known as the Kurel. There isn’t much mingling of these two classes as the Warrior class are very wary of the Kurel and consider all their advanced knowledge is evil magic.
The story starts out with the return of General Tao, a hero to his people for the glorious defeat of the Gorr, an animalistic group whose sole purpose is the elimination of the human inhabitants. Our heroine, Elsabeth is less than impressed though as she has a deep dislike of the Tassagoian people and in particular a hatred for their king ever since he was responsible for the senseless death of her parents. She is part of a rebellion against King Xim along with the chief of the palace guards and Tao’s best friend.
When Tao makes his triumphant return, King Xim is threatened by Tao’s popularity with the people and has him falsely arrested. Markham, his friend and chief of palace guards rescues him and hides him with Elsabeth and the ghetto town of the Kurels
That’s the basics of the story but that’s just bare bones. What I would like to say is what great characters both Elsabeth and Tao are. I wasn’t sure I would like either one at first but I LOVED them. Elsabeth has reason to be bitter but rather than wallow in it, she works to make things different and better. She could have let her hatred for the Tassagoian people take over, but she is very well able to separate her feeling for the king from the rest of the people. In fact she calls the king’s wife and sister to Tao a friend and is very fond of her. Elsbeth is smart, brave, does what she can to help but not in a stupid way and Wendy would really like her. Hint, hint. She has preconceived notions about what the Tassagoians are all about, but is willing to readjust her thinking when she sees that the role they play is valuable.
And Tao. Oh, yum, yum, yum!! What an incredible Ms. Grant has written in him. He is a hero to his people and despite this he remains remarkably humble about it all. He just wants to find a wife, using careful, well thought out methods and retire to his family vineyard. He has fought against the Gorr for many years despite still being a young man. When he is put into hiding in the district of the Korel, he is at first quite reluctant what with them practicing magic and all. But he slowly realizes what value they can be. And at first rather disgusted with their passive ways, he is impressed when they rise to the occasion when threatened. And the chemistry between Tao and Elsabeth is absolutely delicious. I just love how they slowly begin to love each other as they get to know each other and put aside their prejudices. Tao admires Elsbeth and treats her with a great deal of respect, even though he is totally hot for her.
This is a riveting story with very real and believable characters. There are a few places where I chuckled over Tao and his ‘duck out of water’ stay with the Korel. I’ve tried tightening up on my 5 out of 5 grades as at times going back I barely remember a book I gave a five too, but not so in this case. This is one I will remember and most certainly read again.
July 20, 2011
SFR Reading Challenge 2011 #9
3.5*
A good story with likeable characters. This was more a futuristic fantasy/romance than SF romance. The world was colonized by Earth some number of centuries in the past, but contact had been lost. Technology and science had been banned as "magic" and evil by the dominant human faction after it's misuse had caused mass destruction during a war with an alien race. While not a deep or complex tale, it was still fun with plenty of action and a sweet romance.
The book feels ripe for a sequel or two. While there was closure to the main story plenty of room is left to expand on the world, it's various peoples, the mystery of the "arks," and the people who originally sent the colonist to this planet.
3.5*
A good story with likeable characters. This was more a futuristic fantasy/romance than SF romance. The world was colonized by Earth some number of centuries in the past, but contact had been lost. Technology and science had been banned as "magic" and evil by the dominant human faction after it's misuse had caused mass destruction during a war with an alien race. While not a deep or complex tale, it was still fun with plenty of action and a sweet romance.
The book feels ripe for a sequel or two. While there was closure to the main story plenty of room is left to expand on the world, it's various peoples, the mystery of the "arks," and the people who originally sent the colonist to this planet.
December 31, 2023
2.5
This started off as really good, but then it lost me later on. The finale wrapped up in a strange way that fell completely flat for me. There seemed to be many plot points introduced that didn't go anywhere, and they could (should?) have. This story has such a strong start that I almost wish we would have gotten more detail on the cultures and Tals time in the ghetto interacting with the community. I wish the battles would have been more intense, I wish it would have been more drawn out, and I would have even been happy with two books to tell this story. The author had me sold in the adventure, but then its like the sails lost their wind and just drifted into the harbor of a safe ending.
This started off as really good, but then it lost me later on. The finale wrapped up in a strange way that fell completely flat for me. There seemed to be many plot points introduced that didn't go anywhere, and they could (should?) have. This story has such a strong start that I almost wish we would have gotten more detail on the cultures and Tals time in the ghetto interacting with the community. I wish the battles would have been more intense, I wish it would have been more drawn out, and I would have even been happy with two books to tell this story. The author had me sold in the adventure, but then its like the sails lost their wind and just drifted into the harbor of a safe ending.
April 6, 2020
This is a wonderfully romantic adventure. General Uhr-Tal is on the run from a jealous, vengeful king and Elsabeth, a rebel raised as a pacifist, becomes his protector. Or is it the other way around? Adventure, excitement, romance, and a good solid plot with great characters make this stand-alone book terrific! Can hardly wait for the next in series.
April 28, 2011
Susan Grant has done it again! With her latest release she has given readers an exciting, yet highly emotional story, with a dash of sci-fi to it. Mix it all together and you have a satisfying start to her brand new series entitled The Lost Colony.
General Uhr-Tao is a Tassagon whose people eschew technology thinking it based on magic and therefore dangerous. He's just returned home triumphant from defeating the Gorr, a bloodthirsty creature reminiscent of the Wolfman. In his absence King Xim, who's married to Uhr's sister, has segregated another race of people who do all the daily labor for the Tassagons into living in The Ghetto because he fears their more advanced technology that he sees as magic and a threat to his reign. The Kurel have agreed to the arrangement but the more severe King Xim becomes with his edicts in regards to them, the closer they get to rebellion. For one Kurel in particular, Elsabeth the tutor to King Xim's children, revenge is personal since his soldiers killed her parents in cold blood for practicing medicine. As King Xim becomes more paranoid to keep control of his kingdom, the more dangerous it becomes for both Tassagon and Kurel and the line between friends and enemies becomes more blurred.
Uhr-Tao is the perfect hero, sexy and strong. Through the King's paranoia he goes from hero to traitor in the blink of an eye and ends up hiding in The Ghetto relying on those who fear him for his warmongering ways. He's left in Elsabeth's care and must learn the ways of the Kurel to remain in their community. From that moment on a romance is kindled that starts out sweet and slow and builds to a steamy conclusion. Tao takes his time with Elsabeth and it makes for a very believable and extremely satisfying relationship where they actually talked and got to know one another before joining together. Tao further endears himself to me by asking to learn to read and knowing he'll be a better man because of it. And it's just another way to see the attraction between him and Elsabeth where more was said with a look and a touch than any words could possibly convey.
Elsabeth is a wonderful heroine, strong and smart. She's very curious about the outside world and yearns to know everything about Tao. Their talks were some of the most touching scenes and showed me just how connected they'd become. Her anger towards the King was justified but she never let it blind her to the goodness in other Tassagons. She worked side by side with them for the good of all their people.
King Xim is a complex villain who adores his wife and shows his tender side when in her presence, but is truly villainous towards the Kurel and those he sees as a threat. He has no loyalty towards those he thinks are after his throne. His paranoia gets worse as the story progresses and it's being fueled by a vindictive military man, General Beck. In an attempt to counteract Beck's influence, Tao's friend Markham tries to nudge the King towards doing what's right but it's a constant and subtle battle between Beck and Markham for King Xim's soul. As the end of the story swiftly draws near, palace intrigue leads to a bloody confrontation where men's true colors come through and the rightful ruler finally ends up on the throne.
There are many exciting secondary characters among both the Tassagons and Kurel that left a lasting impression on me and that I'd love to see more of in future stories. Outside the walls of the kingdom are even more intriguing races that were also affected by King Xim's rule and I'd like their story to be told as well.
I loved everything about this story! There was exciting action and well-written characters, both primary and secondary, that made for a story that flowed along beautifully. The romance was very emotional and moved at a believable pace. This is a wonderful start to a new series and I can't wait for the next installment. I give Ms. Grant a big thumbs up for this wonderful story and highly recommend it to others.
General Uhr-Tao is a Tassagon whose people eschew technology thinking it based on magic and therefore dangerous. He's just returned home triumphant from defeating the Gorr, a bloodthirsty creature reminiscent of the Wolfman. In his absence King Xim, who's married to Uhr's sister, has segregated another race of people who do all the daily labor for the Tassagons into living in The Ghetto because he fears their more advanced technology that he sees as magic and a threat to his reign. The Kurel have agreed to the arrangement but the more severe King Xim becomes with his edicts in regards to them, the closer they get to rebellion. For one Kurel in particular, Elsabeth the tutor to King Xim's children, revenge is personal since his soldiers killed her parents in cold blood for practicing medicine. As King Xim becomes more paranoid to keep control of his kingdom, the more dangerous it becomes for both Tassagon and Kurel and the line between friends and enemies becomes more blurred.
Uhr-Tao is the perfect hero, sexy and strong. Through the King's paranoia he goes from hero to traitor in the blink of an eye and ends up hiding in The Ghetto relying on those who fear him for his warmongering ways. He's left in Elsabeth's care and must learn the ways of the Kurel to remain in their community. From that moment on a romance is kindled that starts out sweet and slow and builds to a steamy conclusion. Tao takes his time with Elsabeth and it makes for a very believable and extremely satisfying relationship where they actually talked and got to know one another before joining together. Tao further endears himself to me by asking to learn to read and knowing he'll be a better man because of it. And it's just another way to see the attraction between him and Elsabeth where more was said with a look and a touch than any words could possibly convey.
Elsabeth is a wonderful heroine, strong and smart. She's very curious about the outside world and yearns to know everything about Tao. Their talks were some of the most touching scenes and showed me just how connected they'd become. Her anger towards the King was justified but she never let it blind her to the goodness in other Tassagons. She worked side by side with them for the good of all their people.
King Xim is a complex villain who adores his wife and shows his tender side when in her presence, but is truly villainous towards the Kurel and those he sees as a threat. He has no loyalty towards those he thinks are after his throne. His paranoia gets worse as the story progresses and it's being fueled by a vindictive military man, General Beck. In an attempt to counteract Beck's influence, Tao's friend Markham tries to nudge the King towards doing what's right but it's a constant and subtle battle between Beck and Markham for King Xim's soul. As the end of the story swiftly draws near, palace intrigue leads to a bloody confrontation where men's true colors come through and the rightful ruler finally ends up on the throne.
There are many exciting secondary characters among both the Tassagons and Kurel that left a lasting impression on me and that I'd love to see more of in future stories. Outside the walls of the kingdom are even more intriguing races that were also affected by King Xim's rule and I'd like their story to be told as well.
I loved everything about this story! There was exciting action and well-written characters, both primary and secondary, that made for a story that flowed along beautifully. The romance was very emotional and moved at a believable pace. This is a wonderful start to a new series and I can't wait for the next installment. I give Ms. Grant a big thumbs up for this wonderful story and highly recommend it to others.
February 19, 2011
In The Last Warrior, author Susan Grant weaves a romantic political intrigue with a strong science fiction slant. The novel characterizes Elsabeth and Tao who come from two different worlds even though they grew up in the same city. She is a Kurel and he is a Tassogon. The Kurel are cerebral in their professions of science and technology and the Tassogonians are more barbaric in their carnality and strength. Because of the cultural differences and biases, they must come to trust each other.
The beginning of the book enlightens the reader to a life-changing event that affects Elsabeth and her actions from that point. Three years later, Tao arrives home to his hometown from a long but successful military campaign. He spies Elsabeth being hassled by palace guards and calls off the search of her messenger bag. From there the tale goes into the political workings of the Tassgonian palace, loyalties, familial love and meeting the needs of different cultures inherent in this intriguing tale.
The love of the hero and heroine grows slowly. Due to the gradual advance of their feelings, their relationship is believable to the reader which lends to the poignancy of the story. All of the elements in the story conglomerate to an enjoyable read. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to all romance genre book lovers. The audience will be taken on a wonderful journey in an alternate world where the safety of many people lies in the balance. In this instance, true love does not detract from the plot. Rather, it adds to it.
-- Happy reading!!
The beginning of the book enlightens the reader to a life-changing event that affects Elsabeth and her actions from that point. Three years later, Tao arrives home to his hometown from a long but successful military campaign. He spies Elsabeth being hassled by palace guards and calls off the search of her messenger bag. From there the tale goes into the political workings of the Tassgonian palace, loyalties, familial love and meeting the needs of different cultures inherent in this intriguing tale.
The love of the hero and heroine grows slowly. Due to the gradual advance of their feelings, their relationship is believable to the reader which lends to the poignancy of the story. All of the elements in the story conglomerate to an enjoyable read. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to all romance genre book lovers. The audience will be taken on a wonderful journey in an alternate world where the safety of many people lies in the balance. In this instance, true love does not detract from the plot. Rather, it adds to it.
-- Happy reading!!
May 13, 2016
Audiobook
This book was a bit of a disappointment. At first you think it's sci-fi, but it reads more as fantasy with small sci-fi mentions. The romance was slow as was the plot. I'm not giving up on this author though. This was just a blip. Elizabeth Jasicki did a wonderful job narrating this book.
This book was a bit of a disappointment. At first you think it's sci-fi, but it reads more as fantasy with small sci-fi mentions. The romance was slow as was the plot. I'm not giving up on this author though. This was just a blip. Elizabeth Jasicki did a wonderful job narrating this book.
April 25, 2011
Susan Grant is quite the storyteller. She has a talent of leading you into a story with a quiet interest, to where you’re “leaning in” to hear the rest of it like its being told over a campfire. At first I thought this was more of a fantasy story than Sci-Fi, but as the story develops, it has a fascinating turn into Sci-Fi. This is a new series and I can’t wait to see how it develops.
April 24, 2020
The Last Warrior is Book 1 of the Colony Series. The hero Tal, is also a hero in the plot of the book. He’s a military general betrayed by a weak, paranoid king and vengeful military leader. Elsabeth is from a Kurel race despised by his Tarragon race. Although from different sides both are committed to saving all humanity from planet’s natives determined to kill all humans.
Elsabeth is reservedly thrust into sheltering Tal after betrayal. During escape Elsabeth witnesses another action which places him in mortal jeopardy from a wound. During the shelter both characters come to value each other for the traits and knowledge of their individual race. Elsabeth is “pacifist speaking of war, while a general spoke of peace.”
Timely book illustrating racial inclusion overcome. It also gives voice to racial discrimination of today. But also shows another positive value of man awaiting vocal feminine invitation for each step toward sex. Both validate our hope for our future. Definitely uncommon far too often and tragically in reality currently and historically.
Tal is typical strong handsome warrior hero with intelligence of action and battle. Our handsome hero balanced in equal worth with beautiful heroine whose worth is equally strong in intelligence. Their value to each other is not only physical desire but also for cerebral knowledge. By embracing the benefits and knowledges of both races they realize they need to work together to defeat the General and hopefully stave off another war.
Her characters engage the reader’s loyalty while Susan describes the scenes so perfectly. You absolutely feel as you are living the book. It takes us to future world where hundreds of years of technology are lost. The Terragon prohibitively despite technology and ban it. The other races have only have limited amounts.
This book has totally put Susan Grant on my list of favorite writers. She was always at the very top of list in futuristic genre, one of my favorite genre, but Warrior lifted her. I eagerly read book quickly suspenseful for action and romance but paused to go rereads several paragraphs to savor. The journey to HEA trends with the reasons you read futuristic genre with unexpected characters unusual world. The fascinating background will have you hooked and eagerly anticipating the next book of the series. You leave the book trying to predict characters in next book.
I’m voluntarily posting my accurate review after receiving advanced copy generously provided by author.
Elsabeth is reservedly thrust into sheltering Tal after betrayal. During escape Elsabeth witnesses another action which places him in mortal jeopardy from a wound. During the shelter both characters come to value each other for the traits and knowledge of their individual race. Elsabeth is “pacifist speaking of war, while a general spoke of peace.”
Timely book illustrating racial inclusion overcome. It also gives voice to racial discrimination of today. But also shows another positive value of man awaiting vocal feminine invitation for each step toward sex. Both validate our hope for our future. Definitely uncommon far too often and tragically in reality currently and historically.
Tal is typical strong handsome warrior hero with intelligence of action and battle. Our handsome hero balanced in equal worth with beautiful heroine whose worth is equally strong in intelligence. Their value to each other is not only physical desire but also for cerebral knowledge. By embracing the benefits and knowledges of both races they realize they need to work together to defeat the General and hopefully stave off another war.
Her characters engage the reader’s loyalty while Susan describes the scenes so perfectly. You absolutely feel as you are living the book. It takes us to future world where hundreds of years of technology are lost. The Terragon prohibitively despite technology and ban it. The other races have only have limited amounts.
This book has totally put Susan Grant on my list of favorite writers. She was always at the very top of list in futuristic genre, one of my favorite genre, but Warrior lifted her. I eagerly read book quickly suspenseful for action and romance but paused to go rereads several paragraphs to savor. The journey to HEA trends with the reasons you read futuristic genre with unexpected characters unusual world. The fascinating background will have you hooked and eagerly anticipating the next book of the series. You leave the book trying to predict characters in next book.
I’m voluntarily posting my accurate review after receiving advanced copy generously provided by author.
August 13, 2021
New series start
A long time ago humans colonized this world. Then the Gorr attacked the planet and a war ensued. As a result the main ships that brought both sides to the planet were destroyed. The humans broke into 3 groups (warriors, intellectuals, Farmers/ranchers) at odds with each other and two other groups (Gorr and scourge) preying on anyone. Hundreds of years later General Tal has returned from waging war on the Gorr to find the king oppressing all who do not agree with him and that king is jealous of Tal’s popularity. Suddenly running for his life, Tal is forced to rethink things he never questioned. It is through Tal that a chance for the Kurel, Riders, and Tassagons to coexist in peace may happen. The romance was well done and added to the story. I did find the ending almost too convenient but still with a modicum of believability. The big questions are still out there and peace for the whole planet is not accomplished yet—only hinting at a possibility of it happening. I am looking forward to the series.
A long time ago humans colonized this world. Then the Gorr attacked the planet and a war ensued. As a result the main ships that brought both sides to the planet were destroyed. The humans broke into 3 groups (warriors, intellectuals, Farmers/ranchers) at odds with each other and two other groups (Gorr and scourge) preying on anyone. Hundreds of years later General Tal has returned from waging war on the Gorr to find the king oppressing all who do not agree with him and that king is jealous of Tal’s popularity. Suddenly running for his life, Tal is forced to rethink things he never questioned. It is through Tal that a chance for the Kurel, Riders, and Tassagons to coexist in peace may happen. The romance was well done and added to the story. I did find the ending almost too convenient but still with a modicum of believability. The big questions are still out there and peace for the whole planet is not accomplished yet—only hinting at a possibility of it happening. I am looking forward to the series.
July 14, 2019
General Tao returns with his army from 4 years fighting and decimating the Gorr to a hero's welcome. But King Xim feels threatened by his popularity. When Tao makes an unloyal comment within the King's hearing he is arrested for treason. Second class citizens, the Kurel, live in a ghetto and are feared for their alleged sorcery. Elsabeth, a learned Kurel, is tutor to the king's children but is also part of a plot brewing to have the King removed. Her group frees Tao and hides him in the ghetto where he must learn their ways to blend in and stay. He and Elsabeth learn the good about each other's culture and how to work together to save all the human tribes on the planet colony. Very well done. Good world building and would like to read future volumes but it looks like this was all that was published.
April 8, 2020
Homecoming
This KU library selection is the standalone opener for a new series about a lost colony from Urth. General Tal has returned home to Tassagonia a hero after battling and defeating the Gor, an animal like species that has fought against humans since the Gor's arrival on planet. After his initial welcome, however, Tal is charged with treason by the king, arrested and imprisoned in the castle's dungeon. Tal had been warned that things had changed while he was away, but he's unwilling to believe how far the king has fallen into paranoia until he is under a death sentence. But rebels have been working secretly to depose the king and soon Tal finds himself in hiding in the city's ghetto, home of the Kurel, and a fiery redhead named Elsabeth.
This KU library selection is the standalone opener for a new series about a lost colony from Urth. General Tal has returned home to Tassagonia a hero after battling and defeating the Gor, an animal like species that has fought against humans since the Gor's arrival on planet. After his initial welcome, however, Tal is charged with treason by the king, arrested and imprisoned in the castle's dungeon. Tal had been warned that things had changed while he was away, but he's unwilling to believe how far the king has fallen into paranoia until he is under a death sentence. But rebels have been working secretly to depose the king and soon Tal finds himself in hiding in the city's ghetto, home of the Kurel, and a fiery redhead named Elsabeth.
June 17, 2020
I’ve enjoyed Susan Grant’s space romances and checked this out from KU - I will be purchasing this to keep! I don’t really do book reports, so look to the summary or others for that, k? It reminded me a little of Mercedes Lackey’s fairy Tale series and then some of G.A. Aiken’s dragon books. Maybe a little of Robert Apsirin as well. Not quite as much irreverence as Aiken and Aspirin, but there were moments. It did NOT go the way I thought it would, there was definitely a ‘Holy crap! I did NOT see that coming!’ moment. there’s little hints and teasers of story opportunities that I hope will mean future books (please Susan?) I’m looking forward to reading more about this Lost Colony and see where the author takes it. Enjoy!
August 23, 2021
I loved this story, an enemies to lovers romance set on an alien planet with three tribes of human explorers generations into being a lost colony and at war with an alien race. A story of crossing boundaries to bring humans together to survive and prosper in a world separated from their origin planet and people. A story of love from unlikely places and people, A warrior tired from defending his people against an alien threat and a teacher far removed from war set on vengeance for the wrongs done to her people, find each other and build a new future for all humans on their lost world.
December 18, 2020
Excellent story of love and the human struggle
People never seem to be able to embrace their differences. This story is full and rich describing a world of bitter resentment and intolerance of those who are different. All fueled by ignorance until a couple fall in love, lead a rebellion and restore a peace. This book was thrilling.
People never seem to be able to embrace their differences. This story is full and rich describing a world of bitter resentment and intolerance of those who are different. All fueled by ignorance until a couple fall in love, lead a rebellion and restore a peace. This book was thrilling.
September 26, 2020
Another really good story from Susan Grant
Thoughtful story of a war hero who returns home to find his retirement is forbidden by his king , a fearful leader afraid his crown would be lost to the returning conqueror.
Thoughtful story of a war hero who returns home to find his retirement is forbidden by his king , a fearful leader afraid his crown would be lost to the returning conqueror.
November 1, 2020
Excellent story
This book could well be a great standalone story with a HEA ending, but, fortunately, it is the first in a new series. It has an excellent plot and characters you can like, or hate as the case may be. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to you.
This book could well be a great standalone story with a HEA ending, but, fortunately, it is the first in a new series. It has an excellent plot and characters you can like, or hate as the case may be. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to you.
January 18, 2022
The Last Warrior
What can happen when the war is finally finished? Why your king betrays you and you are on the run. Now to hide and figure out how to get everything back. Recommend this book
What can happen when the war is finally finished? Why your king betrays you and you are on the run. Now to hide and figure out how to get everything back. Recommend this book
August 7, 2022
great but for the last 10%
I mean, it started out really well, I liked it, but then got rushed at the end
Spoiler:
major deus ex machina solves everything. It sped up the pace and seemed to just wrap up there.
I mean, it started out really well, I liked it, but then got rushed at the end
Spoiler:
major deus ex machina solves everything. It sped up the pace and seemed to just wrap up there.
February 17, 2024
New from Urth (Earth)
Another great story from Susan Grant. Divided but becoming one, Beth and Tal are from two different backgrounds. As they meet and depend on each other, love grows!
Another great story from Susan Grant. Divided but becoming one, Beth and Tal are from two different backgrounds. As they meet and depend on each other, love grows!
February 15, 2025
Good Story
Good story but could have been fleshed out a bit more. It ended a bit abruptly with the last fight scenes. It felt a bit rushed. Otherwise it was very good. Glad there will be more of this story continued in the future.
Good story but could have been fleshed out a bit more. It ended a bit abruptly with the last fight scenes. It felt a bit rushed. Otherwise it was very good. Glad there will be more of this story continued in the future.
Read
April 3, 2020DNF @ CHAPTER 17.
LIGHT ON THE ROMANCE, HEAVY ON THE SCI-FI, WAR AND POLITICS.
I'll pass thanks.
LIGHT ON THE ROMANCE, HEAVY ON THE SCI-FI, WAR AND POLITICS.
I'll pass thanks.
April 5, 2020
2.5....it was just toooooooo long
April 11, 2020
I usually love this authors books but this just didn’t do anything for me.
Though well written and different this just wasn’t my cup of tea.
Read through Kindle Unlimited.
Though well written and different this just wasn’t my cup of tea.
Read through Kindle Unlimited.
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