Plot Summary
Eviction and Funeral Aftermath
Amber Bierce and her sister Nicci return home from the hospital to find an eviction notice on their door, just hours after their mother's death. This harsh reality forces Amber to take charge, shielding her sister from the brunt of their troubles. The funeral is a stark reminder of their mother's difficult life and the societal disdain they face due to Measure 34, a law enforcing zero population growth. Amber reflects on her mother's struggles and the burden of responsibility she has carried since childhood, setting the stage for her determination to find a better life.
Manifest Destiny's Offer
Amber learns about the Manifest Destiny Society, which offers a chance to colonize a new planet. The society promises a fresh start and financial incentives for fertile women. Despite the risks, Amber sees this as an opportunity to escape their dire situation. She is determined to convince Nicci, who is hesitant and fearful of the unknown. Amber's resolve is tested as she weighs the potential for a better future against the uncertainty of leaving Earth forever, highlighting her leadership and resilience.
Journey to the Unknown
The sisters board the Pioneer, a spaceship bound for the new planet, Plymouth. The journey is fraught with tension as they face the unknown. Amber's resolve is tested as she navigates the bureaucratic process and the reality of leaving Earth. The ship's atmosphere is tense, with passengers grappling with fear and hope. Amber remains focused on the future, determined to make the best of their new life, showcasing her leadership and adaptability.
Arrival and Catastrophe
The Pioneer crashes on the new planet, leaving Amber and the survivors in chaos. The ship is destroyed, and the dream of a new life turns into a fight for survival. Amber's leadership is crucial as she helps Nicci and others navigate the immediate aftermath. The survivors are faced with the harsh reality of their situation, stranded on an alien world with limited resources and no hope of rescue, testing their resilience and adaptability.
Survival and Leadership Struggles
As the survivors struggle to organize, tensions rise between Amber and Scott, the self-appointed leader. Scott's decisions are questioned, and Amber's practical approach to survival gains support. The group faces challenges in securing food, water, and shelter. Amber's resilience and determination to protect her sister and the group are tested as they adapt to their new reality. The dynamics of leadership and survival are explored as the group navigates the challenges of their new world.
Storm Approaches, Ruins Await
As the group trudges through the rain-soaked wilderness, they face a choice between braving an approaching storm or seeking shelter in the ruins of an ancient city. The ruins, with their eerie electric lights, promise shelter but also hold unknown dangers. Meoraq, their lizardman guide, is wary of the city, citing the laws of his god, Sheul, which forbid entering the cities of the Ancients. Despite the ominous storm, the group is drawn to the ruins, hoping for respite from the relentless rain.
Abandonment and Desperate Decisions
Amber regains consciousness to find herself alone with Meoraq, the rest of the group having abandoned them. She struggles to comprehend the betrayal, especially by her sister Nicci. Meoraq explains that they left five days ago, leaving Amber to grapple with the reality of their situation. Despite her weakened state, Amber insists they must catch up with the others, driven by the belief that Nicci is waiting for her. Meoraq, though skeptical, agrees to leave when Amber is able to walk, highlighting the tension between hope and the harshness of their reality.
Captivity and Defiance
Amber wakes to find herself bound and gagged, a captive of Zhuqa and his raiders. Despite her fear, she remains defiant, refusing to show weakness. Zhuqa, intrigued by her spirit, decides to keep her as his own, renaming her Eshiqi. He tests her resolve, but Amber silently vows to survive and find a way to escape. Her thoughts remain with Meoraq, hoping he will come for her, showcasing her resilience and determination.
Meoraq's Relentless Pursuit
Driven by love and guilt, Meoraq relentlessly tracks the raiders who took Amber. He battles exhaustion and despair, praying for guidance. His journey leads him to the city of Praxas, where he confronts the corrupt warden, Myselo, demanding information about the raiders. Meoraq's determination is unwavering, fueled by the belief that Amber is still alive and waiting for him, highlighting his strength and resolve.
Betrayal and Tensions Erupt
In the tense atmosphere of the camp, Scott accuses Amber of being a threat, blaming her for their dire situation. His authoritarian stance divides the group, leading to a vote on Amber's fate. As tensions rise, Meoraq intervenes, asserting his authority and challenging Scott's leadership. The confrontation highlights the fragile alliances and the underlying power struggles within the group, setting the stage for the impending collapse of their unity.
The Collapse of Xi'Matezh
The ancient shrine of Xi'Matezh collapses in a dramatic explosion, symbolizing the end of an era and the destruction of long-held beliefs. The chaos that follows forces Amber and Meoraq to flee, leaving behind the ruins of their past. The collapse serves as a catalyst for change, propelling the characters into a new reality where they must forge their own paths and redefine their identities, highlighting themes of transformation and renewal.
A New Dawn and Hope
As the dust settles, Amber and Meoraq find themselves in a world transformed. The collapse of Xi'Matezh has cleared the skies, revealing a new dawn and a renewed sense of hope. Meoraq's faith is rekindled, not in the old gods, but in the potential for change and growth. Together, they face the future with a sense of purpose and determination, ready to build a new life amidst the ruins of the old, embodying themes of hope and resilience.
Journey Homeward Begins
With the past behind them, Amber and Meoraq set out on a journey back to Xeqor. Their path is uncertain, but they are united in their resolve to create a new life together. The journey homeward is both a physical and emotional one, as they navigate the challenges of their new reality and the promise of a future built on love and understanding, highlighting themes of unity and perseverance.
Characters
Amber Bierce
Amber is the protagonist, a strong-willed and responsible young woman who takes charge after her mother's death. She is determined to protect her sister Nicci and find a better life for them. Amber's resilience and leadership are tested as she navigates the challenges of leaving Earth and surviving on a new planet. Her practical approach and determination to face adversity head-on make her a central figure in the group's survival.
Meoraq
Meoraq is a lizardman warrior tasked with guiding the human survivors. He is bound by the laws of his god, Sheul, which forbid entering the cities of the Ancients. Meoraq struggles with his duty to protect the group and his personal feelings for Amber. His stoic exterior hides a deep conflict as he navigates the challenges of leadership and the complexities of human emotions.
Nicci Bierce
Nicci is Amber's younger sister, who struggles with fear and uncertainty. She relies heavily on Amber for guidance and support. Nicci's reluctance to leave Earth and her dependence on Amber highlight her vulnerability. Throughout the journey, Nicci's character develops as she faces the harsh realities of their new life and learns to adapt.
Everly Scott
Scott is a self-appointed leader among the survivors, whose decisions are often questioned. His authoritarian approach and insecurity create tension within the group. Scott's leadership is challenged by Amber, whose practical approach to survival gains support. His character represents the struggle for power and control in a crisis.
Zhuqa
Zhuqa is a complex character, capable of both cruelty and a twisted form of care. He sees Amber as a possession, a prize to be controlled and manipulated. His authority over his raiders is absolute, and he uses it to maintain order through fear and violence. Zhuqa's power is both his strength and his weakness, as it blinds him to the growing threat of Meoraq's pursuit.
Iziz
Iziz is a raider who serves under Zhuqa, intrigued by Amber's uniqueness. He is cunning and opportunistic, always looking for ways to benefit from the situation. Iziz's loyalty to Zhuqa is tempered by his own self-interest, making him a potential ally or enemy depending on the circumstances.
Eric Lassiter
Eric is a former Fleet soldier who supports Amber's practical approach to survival. His rational thinking and willingness to challenge Scott's leadership make him a valuable ally. Eric's character highlights the importance of teamwork and rational decision-making in a crisis.
Mr. Yao
Mr. Yao is a medic among the survivors, whose practical approach to medical challenges is crucial. His resourcefulness and calm under pressure make him an essential member of the group. Mr. Yao's character emphasizes the importance of medical knowledge and resourcefulness in survival situations.
Xzem
Xzem is a lizardlady enslaved by Zhuqa, forced to care for his child. She is terrified and resigned to her fate, having seen the worst outcomes play out too many times. Xzem's fear is palpable, but she clings to the hope that her obedience will ensure her child's survival.
Plot Devices
The Pioneer Crash
The crash of the Pioneer is a pivotal plot device that sets the stage for the survival story. It forces the characters to confront the harsh realities of their new world and challenges their leadership and survival skills. The crash serves as a catalyst for character development and the exploration of leadership dynamics.
Captivity
Amber's captivity serves as a symbol of Zhuqa's control and her own defiance. It highlights the power dynamics between captor and captive, as well as Amber's inner strength and determination to survive. Her captivity is a catalyst for character development and plot progression.
The Collapse of Xi'Matezh
The destruction of Xi'Matezh serves as a powerful plot device, symbolizing the end of an era and the collapse of long-held beliefs. It forces the characters to confront the lies of their past and embrace the uncertainty of their future. The collapse is a catalyst for change, propelling the narrative forward and setting the stage for a new beginning.
Betrayal and Power Struggles
The betrayals and power struggles within the group highlight the complexities of human nature and the fragility of alliances. These dynamics drive the narrative, forcing the characters to adapt and evolve in the face of adversity. The exploration of power and control is central to the story, underscoring the importance of integrity and cooperation in a crisis.
Faith and Redemption
The characters' journeys are marked by themes of faith and redemption, as they confront the lies of their past and seek understanding in a world transformed. The exploration of belief and self-discovery is central to the narrative, driving character development and plot progression. The themes of faith and redemption underscore the importance of hope and resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Analysis
"The Last Hour of Gann" by R. Lee Smith is a gripping tale of survival, power dynamics, and personal transformation. The narrative explores the complexities of human nature, the fragility of alliances, and the resilience required to overcome adversity. Through the characters' journeys, the story delves into themes of faith, redemption, and the search for identity in a world transformed. The collapse of Xi'Matezh serves as a powerful symbol of change, forcing the characters to confront their past and embrace the uncertainty of their future. Ultimately, the book highlights the importance of hope, integrity, and cooperation in the face of crisis, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition and the potential for growth and renewal.
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FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is The Last Hour of Gann about?
- Desperate sisters seek escape: The story follows Amber and Nicci, two sisters facing eviction and societal prejudice on a dystopian Earth, who decide to join a colonization mission to a new planet called Plymouth.
- Catastrophic journey and survival: Their journey takes a disastrous turn when their ship crashes on Plymouth, leaving them and a small group of survivors struggling to survive in a hostile and unknown environment.
- Leadership and internal conflict: The narrative explores the challenges of leadership, the struggle for survival, and the internal conflicts that arise as the survivors try to establish a new life on the alien planet.
Why should I read The Last Hour of Gann?
- Unique blend of genres: The book combines elements of science fiction, dystopian fiction, and survival stories, offering a fresh and engaging reading experience.
- Complex characters and relationships: The story delves into the psychological complexities of its characters, exploring their motivations, fears, and evolving relationships in a high-stakes environment.
- Thought-provoking themes: It raises questions about societal control, the nature of faith, and the human capacity for both destruction and resilience, prompting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values.
What is the background of The Last Hour of Gann?
- Dystopian Earth: The story is set in a future where Earth is overpopulated and controlled by strict laws, including Measure 34, which enforces zero population growth and leads to the sterilization of women.
- Technological advancements: The existence of space travel and advanced medical procedures, such as the Vaccine, highlights the technological progress of this future, while also revealing its limitations and ethical dilemmas.
- Social and political commentary: The book critiques societal norms, political control, and the consequences of unchecked power, using the dystopian setting to explore contemporary issues.
What are the most memorable quotes in The Last Hour of Gann?
- "You were just born old, little girl. You were born to take care of things.": This quote, said to Amber by her mother, encapsulates Amber's lifelong burden of responsibility and her inherent nature as a caregiver.
- "They'll spay the hookers, sure they will. But do they ever talk about neutering the fucking johns? Oh no! No, they're still selling Viagra on the fucking TV, that's what they're doing! Let me tell you something, babies, what I do is the most honest work in the world because all women are whores! That's how men see it and if that's how they see it, little girl, that's how it is!": This quote from Mary Bierce reveals her bitterness and cynicism towards men and the societal structures that oppress women, highlighting the themes of gender inequality and exploitation.
- "Sometimes you just have to say the bad stuff.": This recurring line, often spoken by Amber, emphasizes the importance of facing difficult truths and the necessity of speaking them, even when they are painful or unpopular.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does R. Lee Smith use?
- Gritty and realistic prose: Smith employs a raw and unflinching writing style that captures the harsh realities of the characters' lives and the brutal nature of their environment.
- Internal monologues and character-driven narrative: The story often delves into the characters' thoughts and feelings, providing insights into their motivations and psychological complexities.
- Foreshadowing and symbolism: Smith uses subtle foreshadowing and recurring symbols to create a sense of unease and to hint at future events, adding layers of meaning to the narrative.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- The time stamp on the eviction notice: The eviction notice is time-stamped 1:27 am, six minutes after Mary Shelley Bierce's official time of death, highlighting the cold, bureaucratic nature of the society and the lack of empathy for the Bierce sisters.
- Bo Peep's name and attire: Mary Bierce's nickname, "Bo Peep," and her frilly attire contrast sharply with her harsh reality as a sex worker, emphasizing the exploitation and objectification of women in this world.
- The Candyman's soft hands: The Candyman's soft hands, described as "soft and bony at the same time, with too much skin for its little size, and abrasive calluses on the fingerpads," reveal a complex character who is both vulnerable and dangerous, adding depth to his seemingly minor role.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- The mention of plus-sized Sleepers: The medico's comment about Sleepers not being made in plus sizes foreshadows Amber's struggle to fit in, both literally and figuratively, in the Manifest Destiny Society.
- The phrase "Plymouth or bust": Amber's casual use of "Plymouth or bust" before boarding the Pioneer foreshadows the catastrophic crash and the literal "bust" of their hopes for a new life on Plymouth.
- The recurring image of the ocean: The ocean, which appears in Amber's dream and later in the landscape of Plymouth, symbolizes both the vastness of the unknown and the potential for both destruction and renewal.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- The Candyman and Bo Peep: The Candyman's past relationship with Bo Peep, revealed through his interactions with Amber, adds a layer of complexity to his character and highlights the interconnectedness of the city's underworld.
- Crewman Scott and the Fleet: Crewman Scott's initial enthusiasm for the Manifest Destiny Society contrasts with his later disillusionment, revealing the limitations of his understanding and the complexities of the situation.
- Lieutenant Lamarc and the military: Lieutenant Lamarc's presence as a Fleet officer on the Pioneer, despite his lack of enthusiasm for the mission, highlights the military's involvement in the colonization effort and the potential for conflict between the military and the civilians.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
- Crewman Everly Scott: Despite his initial role as a minor character, Scott becomes a significant figure as he embodies the authoritarian tendencies and flawed leadership that Amber challenges.
- Lieutenant Junior-Grade Jonah Lamarc: Lamarc's role as a Fleet officer provides a counterpoint to the Manifestors' idealism, highlighting the practical challenges of survival and the limitations of their mission.
- The Candyman: The Candyman's brief but impactful presence reveals the dark underbelly of the city and the desperation of its inhabitants, adding depth to the dystopian setting.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Amber's need for control: Amber's constant need to be in control stems from her childhood experiences of responsibility and her desire to protect her sister, but also masks her own fears and vulnerabilities.
- Nicci's desire for escape: Nicci's fear of the unknown and her desire to return home are driven by her deep-seated anxieties and her longing for a safe and familiar environment.
- Scott's need for validation: Scott's authoritarian behavior and his constant need to assert his authority stem from his deep-seated insecurities and his desire for validation and recognition.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Amber's internal conflict: Amber struggles with her desire to protect her sister and her need to make difficult decisions, often battling her own emotions and doubts.
- Meoraq's struggle with faith and duty: Meoraq grapples with his faith in Sheul and his duty as a Sheulek, often questioning his own beliefs and actions in the face of the harsh realities of the world.
- Nicci's emotional fragility: Nicci's emotional fragility and dependence on Amber highlight the psychological toll of their difficult lives and the trauma of their experiences.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- Amber's decision to leave Earth: Amber's decision to join the Manifest Destiny Society marks a major emotional turning point, as she chooses to leave behind everything she knows in search of a better future.
- The crash of the Pioneer: The crash of the Pioneer is a major emotional turning point, shattering the survivors' hopes and forcing them to confront the harsh realities of their situation.
- Amber's confrontation with Scott: Amber's confrontation with Scott marks a major emotional turning point, as she asserts her own authority and challenges his leadership.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Sisterly bond: The relationship between Amber and Nicci evolves from a codependent one to a more complex dynamic as they face the challenges of their new world.
- Challenging authority: Amber's relationship with Scott evolves from one of reluctant obedience to open defiance, highlighting the power dynamics within the group.
- Unlikely connection: Amber's relationship with Meoraq evolves from one of mutual suspicion to a complex bond based on shared experiences and a growing understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- The nature of Sheul: The true nature of Sheul and the extent of his influence on the world remain ambiguous, leaving readers to question the validity of the characters' beliefs and the nature of faith itself.
- The fate of the other colonists: The fate of the other colonists who were not in Mod A remains ambiguous, leaving readers to wonder if any other survivors exist and what their experiences might have been.
- The true purpose of Xi'Matezh: The true purpose of Xi'Matezh and the nature of the messages it holds remain ambiguous, leaving readers to question the validity of the characters' search for meaning and purpose.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in The Last Hour of Gann?
- Amber's treatment of Nicci: Amber's harsh treatment of Nicci in the early chapters, while motivated by a desire to protect her, can be seen as bullying and emotionally abusive.
- The use of violence and manipulation: The story contains several scenes of violence and manipulation, particularly in the interactions between Zhuqa and his slaves, which can be seen as disturbing and morally ambiguous.
- The ending's ambiguity: The ending, with its open-ended nature and lack of clear resolution, can be seen as both thought-provoking and frustrating, leaving readers to debate the true meaning of the characters' journeys.
The Last Hour of Gann Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
- A journey of self-discovery: The ending of "The Last Hour of Gann" is not a traditional resolution, but rather a continuation of the characters' journeys of self-discovery and adaptation.
- The ambiguity of faith: The ending leaves the question of faith open-ended, suggesting that the characters' beliefs are shaped by their experiences and that there is no single, definitive answer to the nature of God or the universe.
- The importance of human connection: The ending emphasizes the importance of human connection and the power of love and loyalty in the face of adversity, suggesting that even in a world transformed by tragedy, these bonds remain essential for survival and meaning.
Review Summary
The Last Hour of Gann is a controversial, epic-length sci-fi romance novel that polarizes readers. Many praise its complex world-building, character development, and thought-provoking themes on religion and society. The story follows a human woman and a lizard-like alien as they navigate cultural differences and develop a relationship. However, the book's graphic violence, rape scenes, and length are criticized by some. Readers are divided on whether the dark content serves the story or is gratuitous. Despite its flaws, many reviewers consider it a unique and unforgettable reading experience.
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