Search - The Star King

I don't usually read futuristic, but this was a wonderful book that kept me turning pages to see what would happen next. The hero's respect for women and especially mothers was touching. You'll just have to read it for yourself.

Great Story! First book I've read by this author. I'm eagerly awaiting the second book. Perfect blend of lite sci fi and romance. Characters were three dimensional and plot moved along nicely.

Careening out of control in her fighter jet was only the start of the wildest ride of Jasmine's life; spinning wildly in an airplane was nothing like the loss of equilibrium she felt when she landed. There in a half-drem, Jas saw him, a man more powerfully compelling than any she'd ever encountered. Though his words were foreign, his touch was familiar, baffling her mind even as he touched her soul. But who was he? Was he too a downed pilot? Was that why he lay in the desert sand beneath a starry Arabian sky? The answers burned in his mysterious golden eyes, in his thoughts that became hers as he held out his hand and requested her aid. This man had crossed many miles to find her, to offer her a heaven that she might otherwise never have known, and love was only one of the many gifts of....THE STAR KING.

Having read 2 sequels to this book prior to reading "The Star King" set me up for disappointment. Character development left something to be desired. The best aspect of this book was how salt was the interplanetary currency! Also that independent traders, rather than government representatives and formal treaties, did more for everybody. The premise is too idealistic. People capable of interstellar travel would probably value nontangibles, would have mastered cloning as a technique of reproduction. Still, a fun escapist read; 3 stars.

I know this is pure entertainment, but I found that the *whatever* race the Vash Nadah are being soooo compatible with humans a bit disturbing. It burst the bubble of 'suspension of disbelief' that is a constant companion to all sci-fi reading.
Kudos though, to Ms. Grant for the accurate description of neg-G's and the fear of falling.

Jas and Rom have experienced a moment of mystical connection. Since they have never met, that connection has caused them loneliness and despair. It takes years, humanity's first contact with aliens, and Jas's determination to see the world's beyond Earth to bring them together. And then things really get interesting.

This is a really good romance with a science fiction background. The characters are complex enough to be interesting. Their love has to overcome Rom's training to an unbending code of honor and Jas's insecurities. And they have an interstellar crisis to deal with, too.

The SF part is not quite as strong. I don't expect a romance to get into the way faster-than-light travel works, but some things should be worked out more. Still the culture Grant has created has depth and feels possible.

Try this book! I think you will find it entertaining.