Step into the starlit realms of the Lost Colony series, where fiery romance collides with bold science fiction in a universe brimming with adventure! Penned by Jayne Ann Krentz, this trailblazing Science Fiction Romance trilogy whisks readers to distant planets, weaving passionate love stories with intricate world-building that redefined the genre in the 1980s.
Unlike traditional romance novels, Lost Colony dares to blend steamy connections with futuristic settings, alien cultures, and pulse-pounding action. Whether you’re a sci-fi enthusiast or a romance devotee, this series offers a thrilling escape that’s as heartfelt as it is imaginative.
How Lost Colony Began
Inspired by Anne McCaffrey’s groundbreaking 1967 novel Restoree, Jayne Ann Krentz ventured into uncharted territory with Lost Colony. Writing under her own name and later pseudonyms like Amanda Glass, Krentz sought to fuse romance with the speculative allure of science fiction. Launched in 1986 with Sweet Starfire, the series emerged during a time when romance novels rarely ventured beyond Earth’s bounds. Krentz’s bold experiment paid off, captivating readers with her knack for crafting strong heroines and rugged heroes against alien backdrops.
Krentz’s background as a librarian and her passion for history and storytelling shaped the series’ rich, immersive worlds. Despite initial skepticism from publishers, her persistence led to a trilogy that pushed genre boundaries, though it temporarily stalled her sci-fi career until she revived it under her Jayne Castle pseudonym.
The Heart of Lost Colony
The Lost Colony trilogy comprises three standalone novels, each set in the same universe but exploring unique worlds and romantic pairings. Sweet Starfire (1986) follows Cidra Rainforest, a woman raised among telepathic Harmonics, as she teams up with rugged pilot Teague Severence to uncover a galactic secret. Their slow-burn romance unfolds amidst alien jungles and high-stakes adventure.
Crystal Flame (1986) transports readers to a planet steeped in mysticism, where Kalena, the last of her noble house, seeks vengeance alongside alpha male Ridge. Their fiery dynamic blends romance with fantasy-like elements, showcasing Krentz’s genre-blending prowess. Shield’s Lady (1989), originally published as Amanda Glass, centers on Sariana, a businesswoman, and Gryph, a warrior, whose clashing cultures ignite passion on a vibrant alien world.
The series’ themes revolve around trust, independence, and love conquering societal divides. Krentz’s heroines are never damsels in distress; they’re resourceful, complex women who challenge their alpha-male counterparts. The settings, from treacherous jungles to psi-energy-powered planets, are as vivid as the romantic tension, with each book offering a fresh sub-genre flavor—sci-fi in Sweet Starfire, fantasy in Crystal Flame, and adventure in Shield’s Lady.
Why Lost Colony Resonates
Lost Colony’s impact lies in its pioneering spirit. By merging romance with sci-fi in the 1980s, Krentz carved a niche that influenced later authors blending speculative fiction with heartfelt narratives. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise the series for its detailed world-building and genuine character chemistry, even if some find the sci-fi jargon dense. Though not a commercial juggernaut, the trilogy’s cult following endures, with readers cherishing its bold fusion of genres.
Its legacy also reflects Krentz’s versatility. After Lost Colony, she expanded her repertoire across contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance, but the series remains a testament to her willingness to take risks. For readers seeking a blend of cosmic adventure and sizzling romance, Lost Colony is a timeless gem.
- Publication Years: 1986–1989
- Number of Books: 3
- Genres: Science Fiction Romance, Paranormal Romance
Grab Sweet Starfire and blast off into the Lost Colony’s dazzling universe of love and adventure!